Thursday, December 18, 2014

Gary Miller Ministries, AFWIS joins Operation World in Prayer for the Socialist Republic of Vietnam - Asia

Published on Operation World (http://www.operationworld.org)
Home > Dec 18: Vietnam

Dec 18: Vietnam


Vietnam

Socialist Republic of Vietnam

Asia

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 331,653 sq km
Long, narrow country occupying the entire eastern and southern coastline of Indochina.
Population: 89,028,741    Annual Growth: 1.15%
Capital: Hanoi
Urbanites: 28.8%
HDI Rank: 116 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 114 (56% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Vietnamese    Languages: 106 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Buddhist
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians8,395,4109.432.3
Evangelicals1,576,8891.82.6
Buddhist46,722,28352.48 
Prayercast

Challenges for Prayer

Leaders’ development and theological training are the most urgent needs of the Vietnamese church. As numbers increase, so does the potential for false teaching and error. Opportunities for training are still highly restricted and piecemeal. The Catholics have reopened several seminaries, all monitored by the government. The only legal Protestant training institute is run exclusively for the ECVN(S). Some other registered churches are allowed to train their pastors on a case by case basis. There are informal study programmes and unofficial Bible schools in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang and elsewhere, but a standardized curriculum would be a boon. Expatriates often quietly enter the country to do leadership seminars and modular training, but their low profile limits the impact. Beyond theology, training in other leadership skills such as management, finance, accounting and vocational training is crucial. Many pastors are already responsible for multiple congregations and have no time or money for full-time training. Pray for creative, sustainable and effective means of developing a new generation of Christian leaders.
The Vietnamese Diaspora has two elements: those who fled the Communists, mostly in the 1970s, and those who more recently travelled abroad as guest workers in other Asian countries. Over three million live around the globe, where they are more accessible to ministry. Hundreds of thousands (including many from minority ethnic groups) are labouring abroad as migrant workers and have encountered the gospel in Malaysia, South Korea or other transit points, often through the evangelistic work of Vietnamese living abroad. Many overseas Vietnamese are returning to their homeland with a spiritual burden for their country; pray for fruitful and sensitive ministry to flourish as a result.
     For an additional 8 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 Vietnam.
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Romans 16



Romans 16 (New International Version, ©2010)

Romans 16

Personal Greetings

1 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon[a][b] of the church in Cenchreae. 2 I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.
3 Greet Priscilla[c] and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus. 4 They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.

5 Greet also the church that meets at their house. Greet my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia.

6 Greet Mary, who worked very hard for you.

7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews who have been in prison with me. They are outstanding among[d] the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was.

8 Greet Ampliatus, my dear friend in the Lord.

9 Greet Urbanus, our co-worker in Christ, and my dear friend Stachys.

10 Greet Apelles, whose fidelity to Christ has stood the test. Greet those who belong to the household of Aristobulus.

11 Greet Herodion, my fellow Jew. Greet those in the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.

12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, those women who work hard in the Lord. Greet my dear friend Persis, another woman who has worked very hard in the Lord.

13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me, too.

14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas and the other brothers and sisters with them.

15 Greet Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas and all the Lord's people who are with them.

16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send greetings.

17 I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.

20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

21 Timothy, my co-worker, sends his greetings to you, as do Lucius, Jason and Sosipater, my fellow Jews.

22 I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord.

23 Gaius, whose hospitality I and the whole church here enjoy, sends you his greetings. Erastus, who is the city's director of public works, and our brother Quartus send you their greetings. [24] [e]

25 Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, 26 but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from[f] faith— 27 to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.
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Psalm 31



Psalm 31 (New International Version)

Psalm 31

For the director of music. A psalm of David.

1 In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness.
2 Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me.

3 Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me.

4 Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge.

5 Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth.

6 I hate those who cling to worthless idols; I trust in the LORD.

7 I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul.

8 You have not handed me over to the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place.

9 Be merciful to me, O LORD, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and my body with grief.

10 My life is consumed by anguish and my years by groaning; my strength fails because of my affliction, [a] and my bones grow weak.

11 Because of all my enemies, I am the utter contempt of my neighbors; I am a dread to my friends— those who see me on the street flee from me.

12 I am forgotten by them as though I were dead; I have become like broken pottery.

13 For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side; they conspire against me and plot to take my life.

14 But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God."

15 My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me.

16 Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love.

17 Let me not be put to shame, O LORD, for I have cried out to you; but let the wicked be put to shame and lie silent in the grave. [b]

18 Let their lying lips be silenced, for with pride and contempt they speak arrogantly against the righteous.

19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you.

20 In the shelter of your presence you hide them from the intrigues of men; in your dwelling you keep them safe from accusing tongues.

21 Praise be to the LORD, for he showed his wonderful love to me when I was in a besieged city.

22 In my alarm I said, "I am cut off from your sight!" Yet you heard my cry for mercy when I called to you for help.

23 Love the LORD, all his saints! The LORD preserves the faithful, but the proud he pays back in full.

24 Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.
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Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Gary Miller Ministries, AFWIS joins Operation World in prayer for Venezuela - Latin America

Published on Operation World (http://www.operationworld.org)
Home > Dec 17: Venezuela

Dec 17: Venezuela



Venezuela

Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Latin America

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 912,050 sq km
About 80% of the population live along the Caribbean coastal belt in the north; the centre and south are grasslands and tropical forest.
Population: 29,043,555    Annual Growth: 1.68%
Capital: Caracas
Urbanites: 94%
HDI Rank: 58 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 66 (3% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Spanish    Languages: 47 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Christian
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians24,553,42184.540.8
Evangelicals3,147,42110.83.2
Prayercast

Challenges for Prayer

Venezuela is a volatile and divided nation. The economy is deeply dependent on the price of oil, and the political scene is polarized between the president’s supporters and his detractors. Increasingly strident anti-Western posturing offsets widespread investments in social and economic programmes for the poor. Pray for the wisdom to administer the nation wisely, to implement sensible policies that strengthen the nation and to strive for peace domestically and abroad.
On a social level, Venezuela is struggling. Poverty is still widespread and may be growing, and relative living standards are dropping (60% of urbanites live in slums). Power is concentrated in the hands of an ever-shrinking cadre, and the nation is regarded as the second most corrupt in Latin America after Haiti. Venezuela is increasingly used as a transshipment point for trafficking primarily drugs but also people. The promised utopia of “21st Century socialism” is not taking root, at least not as quickly as hoped. Pray that amid significant economic change and political turmoil, the neediest in society would be cared for and communities would be strengthened.
     For an additional 10 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 Venezuela.


Venezuela

Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Latin America

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 912,050 sq km
About 80% of the population live along the Caribbean coastal belt in the north; the centre and south are grasslands and tropical forest.
Population: 29,043,555    Annual Growth: 1.68%
Capital: Caracas
Urbanites: 94%
HDI Rank: 58 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 66 (3% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Spanish    Languages: 47 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Christian
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians24,553,42184.540.8
Evangelicals3,147,42110.83.2
Prayercast

Challenges for Prayer

Venezuela is a volatile and divided nation. The economy is deeply dependent on the price of oil, and the political scene is polarized between the president’s supporters and his detractors. Increasingly strident anti-Western posturing offsets widespread investments in social and economic programmes for the poor. Pray for the wisdom to administer the nation wisely, to implement sensible policies that strengthen the nation and to strive for peace domestically and abroad.
On a social level, Venezuela is struggling. Poverty is still widespread and may be growing, and relative living standards are dropping (60% of urbanites live in slums). Power is concentrated in the hands of an ever-shrinking cadre, and the nation is regarded as the second most corrupt in Latin America after Haiti. Venezuela is increasingly used as a transshipment point for trafficking primarily drugs but also people. The promised utopia of “21st Century socialism” is not taking root, at least not as quickly as hoped. Pray that amid significant economic change and political turmoil, the neediest in society would be cared for and communities would be strengthened.
     For an additional 10 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 Venezuela.
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Romans 15



Romans 15 (New International Version, ©2010)

Romans 15

1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me."[a] 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.

5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. 8 For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the Jews[b] on behalf of God's truth, so that the promises made to the patriarchs might be confirmed 9 and, moreover, that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written: "Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing the praises of your name."[c]

10 Again, it says, "Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people."[d]

11 And again, "Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles; let all the peoples extol him."[e]

12 And again, Isaiah says, "The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope."[f]

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Paul the Minister to the Gentiles

14 I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another. 15 Yet I have written you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. He gave me the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
17 Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God. 18 I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done— 19 by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. 20 It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else's foundation. 21 Rather, as it is written: "Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard will understand."[g]

22 This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you.

Paul's Plan to Visit Rome

23 But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to visit you, 24 I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to see you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while. 25 Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the Lord's people there. 26 For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the Lord's people in Jerusalem. 27 They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews' spiritual blessings, they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings. 28 So after I have completed this task and have made sure that they have received this contribution, I will go to Spain and visit you on the way. 29 I know that when I come to you, I will come in the full measure of the blessing of Christ.
30 I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. 31 Pray that I may be kept safe from the unbelievers in Judea and that the contribution I take to Jerusalem may be favorably received by the Lord's people there, 32 so that I may come to you with joy, by God's will, and in your company be refreshed. 33 The God of peace be with you all. Amen.
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Psalm 30



Psalm 30 (New International Version)

Psalm 30

A psalm. A song. For the dedication of the temple. Of David. [a]

1 I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me.
2 O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.

3 O LORD, you brought me up from the grave [b] ; you spared me from going down into the pit.

4 Sing to the LORD, you saints of his; praise his holy name.

5 For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

6 When I felt secure, I said, "I will never be shaken."

7 O LORD, when you favored me, you made my mountain [c] stand firm; but when you hid your face, I was dismayed.

8 To you, O LORD, I called; to the Lord I cried for mercy:

9 "What gain is there in my destruction, [d] in my going down into the pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it proclaim your faithfulness?

10 Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me; O LORD, be my help."

11 You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,

12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.
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Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Gary Miller Ministries, AFWIS Joins Operation World in Prayer for the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela - Latin America

Published on Operation World (http://www.operationworld.org)
Home > Dec 16: Venezuela

Dec 16: Venezuela


Venezuela

Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Latin America

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 912,050 sq km
About 80% of the population live along the Caribbean coastal belt in the north; the centre and south are grasslands and tropical forest.
Population: 29,043,555    Annual Growth: 1.68%
Capital: Caracas
Urbanites: 94%
HDI Rank: 58 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 66 (3% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Spanish    Languages: 47 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Christian
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians24,553,42184.540.8
Evangelicals3,147,42110.83.2
Prayercast

Challenges for Prayer

The religious climate of the country reveals a spiritual battleground:
a) Venezuela is not the Catholic bastion that it seems. The majority of Catholics are nominal – only 10% attend mass – making Venezuela one of the least-churchgoing nations in Latin America. A secular, materialist mindset prevails in public life. Its privileged position is eroding, and literally millions are opting for evangelicalism or no religion at all.
b) Spiritism is dangerously strong. The majority of Venezuela’s “Christians” have to some degree dabbled with Spiritism. There are thousands of occult and spiritist shops where witch doctors and their ilk are frequented by rich and poor alike. The animist cult of Maria Lionza is one formalized expression of this, attracting up to half a million devotees.
c) All manner of spiritual forces draw Venezuelans away from Christ. New Age spirituality is increasing, especially among the educated and rich. Satanists actively seek to destroy the Church. Caracas is the site of Latin America’s largest mosque. Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons claim large numbers and are still growing. Pray that the powers blinding Venezuelans to the truth might be bound, and that the exalted Christ might be revealed to all, drawing many to faith in Him.
Venezuela’s evangelical breakthrough was later (1980s) and less dramatic than in other Latin nations, but has remained stable. Early Protestant growth was slow, but some indigenous churches (especially those linked with the work of the AoG and the Brazilian neo-Pentecostal groups) are growing at 10% a year or higher. Evangelicals are also active in the political and social arenas, trying to impact the nation positively. The poor are particularly responsive to evangelical ministry.
     For an additional 10 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 Venezuela.

Venezuela

Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Latin America

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 912,050 sq km
About 80% of the population live along the Caribbean coastal belt in the north; the centre and south are grasslands and tropical forest.
Population: 29,043,555    Annual Growth: 1.68%
Capital: Caracas
Urbanites: 94%
HDI Rank: 58 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 66 (3% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Spanish    Languages: 47 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Christian
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians24,553,42184.540.8
Evangelicals3,147,42110.83.2
Prayercast

Challenges for Prayer

The religious climate of the country reveals a spiritual battleground:
a) Venezuela is not the Catholic bastion that it seems. The majority of Catholics are nominal – only 10% attend mass – making Venezuela one of the least-churchgoing nations in Latin America. A secular, materialist mindset prevails in public life. Its privileged position is eroding, and literally millions are opting for evangelicalism or no religion at all.
b) Spiritism is dangerously strong. The majority of Venezuela’s “Christians” have to some degree dabbled with Spiritism. There are thousands of occult and spiritist shops where witch doctors and their ilk are frequented by rich and poor alike. The animist cult of Maria Lionza is one formalized expression of this, attracting up to half a million devotees.
c) All manner of spiritual forces draw Venezuelans away from Christ. New Age spirituality is increasing, especially among the educated and rich. Satanists actively seek to destroy the Church. Caracas is the site of Latin America’s largest mosque. Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons claim large numbers and are still growing. Pray that the powers blinding Venezuelans to the truth might be bound, and that the exalted Christ might be revealed to all, drawing many to faith in Him.
Venezuela’s evangelical breakthrough was later (1980s) and less dramatic than in other Latin nations, but has remained stable. Early Protestant growth was slow, but some indigenous churches (especially those linked with the work of the AoG and the Brazilian neo-Pentecostal groups) are growing at 10% a year or higher. Evangelicals are also active in the political and social arenas, trying to impact the nation positively. The poor are particularly responsive to evangelical ministry.
     For an additional 10 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 Venezuela.
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Romans 14



Romans 14 (New International Version, ©2010)

Romans 14

The Weak and the Strong

1 Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters. 2 One person's faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. 3 The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them. 4 Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand.
5 One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. 6 Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God. 7 For none of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us dies for ourselves alone. 8 If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.

10 You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister[a]? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. 11 It is written: "'As surely as I live,' says the Lord,
'every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.'"[b]

12 So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.

13 Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister. 14 I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean. 15 If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died. 16 Therefore do not let what you know is good be spoken of as evil. 17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18 because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval.

19 Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. 20 Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. 21 It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.

22 So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. 23 But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.
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Psalm 29



Psalm 29 (New International Version)

Psalm 29

A psalm of David.

1 Ascribe to the LORD, O mighty ones, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.
2 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his [a] holiness.

3 The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the LORD thunders over the mighty waters.

4 The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic.

5 The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD breaks in pieces the cedars of Lebanon.

6 He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, Sirion [b] like a young wild ox.

7 The voice of the LORD strikes with flashes of lightning.

8 The voice of the LORD shakes the desert; the LORD shakes the Desert of Kadesh.

9 The voice of the LORD twists the oaks [c] and strips the forests bare. And in his temple all cry, "Glory!"

10 The LORD sits [d] enthroned over the flood; the LORD is enthroned as King forever.

11 The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.
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Monday, December 15, 2014

Gary Miller Ministries, AFWIS Joins Operation World in Prayer for the Republic of Vanuatu - Pacific

Published on Operation World (http://www.operationworld.org)
Home > Dec 15: Vanuatu

Dec 15: Vanuatu

Vanuatu

Republic of Vanuatu

Pacific

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 12,190 sq km
Twelve larger and 70 smaller islands, southeast of the Solomon Islands in the southwest Pacific. Formerly New Hebrides.
Population: 245,786    Annual Growth: 2.58%
Capital: Vila
Urbanites: 25.6%
HDI Rank: 126 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Official language: Bislama (Pidgin English), English, French    Languages: 108 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Christian
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians231,23594.082.9
Evangelicals112,87445.93.1

Answer to Prayer

The rededication of Vanuatu to the Lord occurred May 14, 2006 at the 400th anniversary of naming the South Pacific Islands the “Great Southlands of the Holy Spirit”. Thousands participated in acts of repentance, celebration, communion and prayer, including the President, First Lady and other government figures.
     For an additional Answer to Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

Challenge for Prayer

The Protestant Church is numerically strong. Presbyterians are the largest group, but AoG and other Pentecostal/charismatic groups claim rapid growth. Most of them are represented in the Vanuatu Christian Council. Revival has occurred on some islands and in several denominations, but not in all places; some islands are spiritually stagnant. Church-planting mission is still needed for a few superficially evangelized peoples. Pray for the training of future leaders in the seven Bible colleges/schools. Pray that pastors and group leaders would lead with guidance from both the Word and Spirit.
     For an additional 3 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 Vanuatu.
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Romans 13



Romans 13 (New International Version, ©2010)

Romans 13

Submission to Governing Authorities

1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God's servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.
6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

Love Fulfills the Law

8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, "You shall not commit adultery," "You shall not murder," "You shall not steal," "You shall not covet,"[a] and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."[b] 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
The Day Is Near

11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.
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Psalm 28



Psalm 28 (New International Version)

Psalm 28

Of David.

1 To you I call, O LORD my Rock; do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who have gone down to the pit.
2 Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place.

3 Do not drag me away with the wicked, with those who do evil, who speak cordially with their neighbors but harbor malice in their hearts.

4 Repay them for their deeds and for their evil work; repay them for what their hands have done and bring back upon them what they deserve.

5 Since they show no regard for the works of the LORD and what his hands have done, he will tear them down and never build them up again.

6 Praise be to the LORD, for he has heard my cry for mercy.

7 The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.

8 The LORD is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.

9 Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.
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Sunday, December 14, 2014

...You may Prosper in ALL things...


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Romans 12



Romans 12 (New International Version, ©2010)

Romans 12

A Living Sacrifice

1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Humble Service in the Body of Christ

3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Love in Action

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[c] Do not be conceited.

17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay,"[d] says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."[e]

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
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Psalm 27



Psalm 27 (New International Version)

Psalm 27

Of David.

1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, [a] when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall.

3 Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.

4 One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.

5 For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock.

6 Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD.

7 Hear my voice when I call, O LORD; be merciful to me and answer me.

8 My heart says of you, "Seek his [b] face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek.

9 Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Savior.

10 Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me.

11 Teach me your way, O LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors.

12 Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, breathing out violence.

13 I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.

14 Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.
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Saturday, December 13, 2014

Psalm 26



Psalm 26 (New International Version)

Psalm 26

Of David.

1 Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have led a blameless life; I have trusted in the LORD without wavering.
2 Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind;

3 for your love is ever before me, and I walk continually in your truth.

4 I do not sit with deceitful men, nor do I consort with hypocrites;

5 I abhor the assembly of evildoers and refuse to sit with the wicked.

6 I wash my hands in innocence, and go about your altar, O LORD,

7 proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds.

8 I love the house where you live, O LORD, the place where your glory dwells.

9 Do not take away my soul along with sinners, my life with bloodthirsty men,

10 in whose hands are wicked schemes, whose right hands are full of bribes.

11 But I lead a blameless life; redeem me and be merciful to me.

12 My feet stand on level ground; in the great assembly I will praise the LORD.
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Gary Miller Ministries, AFWIS Joins Operation World in prayer for the Republic of Uzbekistan - Asia

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

Dec 13: Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan

Republic of Uzbekistan

Asia

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 447,400 sq km
Fertile, irrigated mountain valleys in the east, notably the Ferghana Valley. Desert and Aral Sea in the west.
Population: 27,794,296    Annual Growth: 1.10%
Capital: Tashkent
Urbanites: 36.9%
HDI Rank: 119 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 67 (55% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Uzbek    Languages: 39 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Muslim
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians208,4570.75-1.6
Evangelicals84,9570.34.4
Muslim23,605,69684.93 
Prayercast

Challenges for Prayer

Uzbek believers continue to increase despite great opposition. The prospect of retribution from three sides – the government, local Muslim leaders and the community (family and neighbours) – has not halted growth. There are now probably more than 10,000 Uzbek believers, where there were possibly none only a generation ago. But much prayer is still needed:
a) For the discipling and mentoring of new believers. No one knows how many isolated individuals and clusters exist, but there are far more than those affiliated with officially recognized churches. Many fall away when difficulties intensify; pray that Christians might be integrated quickly into home groups or fellowships where they can grow. Many others find their witness curtailed by fear; pray for boldness for them.
b) For local believers who are accused of being cultural/religious traitors and “rice Christians”. Pray for gentleness and humility as well as right motives for all those who seek to integrate into the churches.
c) For the distribution of believers. Most Uzbek Christians live in Tashkent and other cities, despite 63% of Uzbeks living in rural areas.
d) For indigenous leadership to be raised up. Bible training for this infant Church is urgently needed, as is spiritual maturity and godliness. Fast-growing churches need quality leaders even more urgently.
e) For cultural authenticity. Ask the Lord to raise up culturally appropriate Uzbek Christian literature, music, worship styles and fellowship structures. There are Uzbek ministry-training courses, led and taught completely by Uzbeks. These things are beginning to emerge, with significant fruit as a result.
Uzbekistan’s government relentlessly persecutes the Church. Dynamic and evangelism-oriented churches, especially Uzbek churches, are particularly targeted. Uzbek Christian leaders have extensive files on them compiled by the 14 different government agencies that monitor religious activity. Persecution tactics include: public humiliation, property seizure, book and Bible-burning, expulsion of Christian students, dismissal of Christian employees, arrests (followed by beating and torture) under the flimsiest of pretexts and massive fines for first offences (up to 50 times the annual salary). The near impossibility of legally registering has birthed a mobile and fast-growing house church movement. A well-networked union of house churches helps to create stability and support amid the persecution. Pray for Christians who are under pressure to betray fellow believers to the authorities. Pray too for those persecuted and in prison, that God may give them strength and boldness.
     For an additional 7 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 Uzbekistan.
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Romans 11



Romans 11 (New International Version, ©2010)

Romans 11

The Remnant of Israel

1 I ask then: Did God reject his people? By no means! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. 2 God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew. Don't you know what Scripture says in the passage about Elijah—how he appealed to God against Israel: 3 "Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me"[a]? 4 And what was God's answer to him? "I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal."[b] 5 So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. 6 And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.
7 What then? What the people of Israel sought so earnestly they did not obtain. The elect among them did, but the others were hardened, 8 as it is written: "God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that could not see and ears that could not hear,
to this very day."[c]

9 And David says: "May their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a retribution for them.
10 May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and their backs be bent forever."[d]

Ingrafted Branches

11 Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious. 12 But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their full inclusion bring!
13 I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I take pride in my ministry 14 in the hope that I may somehow arouse my own people to envy and save some of them. 15 For if their rejection brought reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead? 16 If the part of the dough offered as firstfruits is holy, then the whole batch is holy; if the root is holy, so are the branches.

17 If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, 18 do not consider yourself to be superior to those other branches. If you do, consider this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you. 19 You will say then, "Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in." 20 Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble. 21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either.

22 Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. 23 And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. 24 After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!

All Israel Will Be Saved

25 I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, 26 and in this way[e] all Israel will be saved. As it is written:
"The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.
27 And this is[f] my covenant with them when I take away their sins."[g]

28 As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, 29 for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable. 30 Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience, 31 so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now[h] receive mercy as a result of God's mercy to you. 32 For God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.

Doxology

33 Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and[i] knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!
34 "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?"[j]
35 "Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?"[k]
36 For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
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