₦airaland Forum

9 MAY 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

E-V-A-L-U-A-T-E

‘Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?’

Amos 3:3

09 05 2013.

A successful marriage is based on two things: ‘finding’ the right person, and ‘becoming’ the right person. And the second thing is harder than the first. Just because two people share the same bed and the same name, it doesn’t guarantee harmony. Here are some practical suggestions based on the word E-V-A-L-U-A-T-E: Enjoy. Do you enjoy the same things? Maybe it’s not a big deal now, but later when your husband is glued to the big match on TV and you want a little conversation, it will be. Values. The Bible asks, ‘Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?’ Are you able to agree on major issues such as intimacy, parenting, finances, in-laws, goals, and your relationship with God? You may disagree over many things, but these are make-or-break issues. Accessibility. Are you both emotionally accessible, or is he the strong silent type who doesn’t communicate—or understand your need to? Love. Do you really love each other? Not the Hollywood version but the kind that listens to your spouse’s opinions and concerns, overlooks their faults and failings, values them, and expresses itself through kindness? Understanding. As surely as God doesn’t make two snowflakes alike, He doesn’t make two people alike. So, can you understand and handle each other’s differences? Appreciation. Your partner can’t read your mind, so get into the habit of expressing your appreciation for one another. Temperament. If you’re naturally upbeat but they’re moody and introverted, you may have an oil-and-water mix. How will you handle this? Environment. If you’re from different backgrounds, are you comfortable in the same social and spiritual settings? If you want a happy marriage, E-V-A-L-U-A-T-E these things.

 

Luke 24:50-53, Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 4:7-10

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

 Today, is a day of prayer for all those who work in policing our nation.  Thank God today for your own regional Police Force, and for the Neighbourhood Policing Team which watches over your local community.  Pray for protection, provision and patience for them as they handle both the mundane and the unexpected.  Pray that they will strike the difficult balance of being both a formidable deterrent and a friendly presence on our streets.

8 MAY 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

ADAPTING TO CHANGE

‘…Along unfamiliar paths I will guide them…’

Isaiah 42:16

08 05 2013 

Change forces us out of our comfort zone and into the discomfort of the unfamiliar. And while it can turn your world upside down, it makes you face your greatest fears and deal with the things that steal your joy, peace, and confidence. Change can be your friend or foe, depending on how you use it. Running away turns it into an enemy; embracing and learning from it makes it one of your greatest allies. C. Neil Strait said: ‘Change is always hardest for the man who’s in a rut for he has scaled down his living to that which he can handle comfortably, and welcomes no change or challenge that would lift him up.’ When you are facing the unknown, instead of automatically going into resistance mode, ‘…Fix your eyes on what lies before you…stay on the safe path’ (Proverbs 4:25-26 NLT). Ask yourself: What is God trying to teach me? How can I become stronger and wiser? What opportunities does it hold? John Mason says: ‘Correction and change always result in fruit…One change makes way for the next, giving you the opportunity to grow. Every time you think you’re ready to graduate from the school of experience, somebody thinks up a new course…If you can figure out when to stand firm and when to bend, you’ve got it made.’ You don’t have to fear what lies ahead. ‘…Along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth…I will not forsake them.’ God never closes a door without opening another one—but you must be willing to walk through it.

​

Deuteronomy 18-21, Mark 7:14-23, Psalm 37:32-40 Prov 12:4-6 , Proverbs 12:4-6

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

PRACTICAL CHRISTIANITY

 Catherine Gurney, founder of the Christian Police Association, established several Police convalescent homes, now known as rehabilitation centres.  It is this tradition of practical Christianity which the CPA aims to promote.  Pray for all those who staff these much-needed facilities, that God will equip them with the skills they need to help those who have been injured in their policing work.  Pray that these centres will be havens of peace, hope and ....

7 MAY 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

CONFIDENTIALITY

‘…They gather gossip, and…spread it…’

Psalms 41:6

07 05 2013. 

A man approached Socrates one day to share some gossip. The wise philosopher asked, ‘First, are you certain it’s true? Second, is it something good? Third, is it something useful?’ When the man said, ‘Not really,’ Socrates replied, ‘Well, if it’s not true, good or useful, why talk about it?’ Gossip can feel like a form of intimacy, but it’s actually a false bond motivated by the desire to diminish another person and make yourself look good. David said, ‘They visit…as if they were my friends, but…they gather gossip, and…spread it…’ Solomon said, ‘Gossip separates…best…friends’ (Proverbs 16:28 NLT), and it can cause you to lose ‘your good reputation’ (Proverbs 25:10 NLT). Kevin Miller says: ‘A challenge in ministry is confidentiality—how open can you be? The following questions can help you decide: Are you telling someone who can do something about the problem by helping, or offering discipline or correction? Are you talking to someone wise enough to help you process your feelings and courageous enough to make you do the right thing by confronting the other person, or confessing where you’re at fault? Is this news approved for sharing? Are you breaking a confidence, and if so, is it strictly because the person is endangering someone’s life, including their own? Are you willing to divulge your source so it can be checked? When you say this, does it break your heart? Have you examined your own life and confessed where you’ve sinned in similar areas? Are you praying for the person? Would you be comfortable if someone was saying this about you?’

 

Deuteronomy 14-17, Mark 7:1-13, Psalm 37:25-31 , Proverbs 12:1-3

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

POCKET BIBLES

 “The CPA have produced a Pocket New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs which includes biblical helps, as well as testimonies.  With the World Police and Fire Games next year in Belfast, and the Commonwealth Games in 2014 in Glasgow, this will be a valuable tool in reaching colleagues with the Gospel.”  Pray that these pocket Bibles will spread far and wide in the years to come, and that many in the Police service will read them and be challenged.

6 MAY 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

SPIRITUAL MATURITY COMES BY DEGREES

‘…From one degree of glory to another…’

2 Corinthians 3:18

06 05 2013.

How would you describe someone who is spiritually mature? Leonard Wedel says: ‘A mature person does not take himself too seriously…keeps himself alert in mind…does not always view with alarm every adverse situation that arises…Is too big to be little…never feels too great to do little things, and is never too proud to do humble things…never accepts either success or failure in themselves as permanent…is one who is able to control his or her impulses…is not afraid to make mistakes…has faith in themselves which becomes stronger as it is fortified by their faith in God.’ So, measured by that standard, how well are you doing? Are you able to evaluate your progress, without getting discouraged or feeling condemned? Can you look at how far you still have to go, yet be able to appreciate and celebrate how far you have already come? The Bible says we are changed ‘from one degree of glory to another.’ Notice, spiritual maturity takes place by degrees. In small steps, not giant leaps. You must learn to live by God’s Word, not by how you feel, for His Word states that as long as you believe, God is working in you, ‘…The Word of God…is effectually at work in you who believe [exercising its superhuman power in those who adhere to and trust in and rely on it]’ (1Thessalonians 2:13 AMP). There is a direct connection between your daily intake of God’s Word and your maturity level. And the good news is, God hasn’t left us to do it on our own. ‘We…are being transformed…from glory to glory…by the Spirit…’ (2 Corinthians 3:18 NKJV).

​

Deuteronomy 11-13, Mark 6:45-56, Psalm 37:16-24 , Proverbs 11:30-31

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

POCKET BIBLES

 “The CPA have produced a Pocket New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs which includes biblical helps, as well as testimonies.  With the World Police and Fire Games next year in Belfast, and the Commonwealth Games in 2014 in Glasgow, this will be a valuable tool in reaching colleagues with the Gospel.”  Pray that these pocket Bibles will spread far and wide in the years to come, and that many in the Police service will read them and be challenged.

5 MAY 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

CHANGE YOUR SELF-TALK

‘You will also declare a thing, and it will be established for you…’

Job 22:28

05 05 2013

It’s not what others say to you or about you that determines your future; it’s what you say to yourself when others have finished speaking! The Bible says, ‘Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit’ (Proverbs 18:21 NKJV). You say, ‘I’d love to have a better relationship but I’m afraid that if I make the first move and they don’t respond, I’ll feel rejected.’ Or, ‘I’d like to pursue my education but I’m afraid if I register for classes and can’t do the work, I’ll feel stupid.’ These kinds of words become self-fulfilling prophecies. Until you replace your negative self-talk with faith-talk you’ll always live in fear. Your mind is like the womb of your spirit; it nurtures each seed you sow until the time of delivery. If you don’t want what a seed will ultimately produce, you must stop sowing it, or feeding it. Your first step in breaking fear’s hold over you is in recognising the self-talk that got you into trouble in the first place. This is not easy to do. It takes vigilance, self-awareness, discipline and scriptural reprogramming. But by changing your thoughts you’ll begin to change your life. Job says, ‘You will…declare a thing, and it will be established for you.’ And the amazing part is, at times you may not feel like you believe the particular Scripture you’re standing on. That’s okay; your inner self accepts what it’s consistently fed and begins to act accordingly. So starting today, serve an eviction notice to every negative thought that’s holding you back and begin feeding your mind with God’s Word.

 

Galatians 5:22, Luke 6:27-36, Exodus 23:1-9 , Romans 12:14-21

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

POCKET BIBLES

 “The CPA have produced a Pocket New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs which includes biblical helps, as well as testimonies.  With the World Police and Fire Games next year in Belfast, and the Commonwealth Games in 2014 in Glasgow, this will be a valuable tool in reaching colleagues with the Gospel.”  Pray that these pocket Bibles will spread far and wide in the years to come, and that many in the Police service will read them and be challenged.

4 MAY 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

KEEP YOUR EYES ON JESUS (2)

‘…Jesus…went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil.’

Acts 10:38

04 05 2013

The Bible says: ‘Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. Then those who were in the boat came and worshipped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God’’’ (Matthew 14:28-33 NKJV). The main message for you in this story is—where to stare in a storm. We cannot choose whether or not storms come, but we can choose where we stare during a storm. When you are staring into the face of cancer, heart disease, or some other life-threatening illness, some of the first questions that come to mind are: ‘Who is the doctor? What is his experience? Is he able? Is he available?’ Yes, He is! Jesus’ CV reads: ‘God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.’ Note the word ‘all.’ He can meet all your needs. So keep your eyes on Jesus and draw strength from Him. The One who ‘went about doing good and healing all’ is on your side today.


⁠

 

Deuteronomy 8-10, Mark 6:30-44, Psalm 37: 8-15 , Proverbs 11:27-29

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

PRAYING FOR UCB

 Lord, we thank You for the new editions of The Word for Today and Prayer for Today which have started this week.  As people use these resources to prompt their praying and their reading of the Word, may they encounter You in new and deeper way.  As they are circulated through email and social media, we pray that people will come across them at just the right moment, and that they will be a blessing.

"I was glad when they said unto me.let us go into the house of the Lord " Psalm 122 :1

Holy Ghost Service at Redemption camp tonite and Power Must Change Hands tomorrow at Prayer City...

Please,try and attend !

3 MAY 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

KEEP YOUR EYES ON JESUS (1)

‘The boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves…’

Matthew 14:24

03 05 2013. 

Jesus had accompanied His disciples in a previous storm and calmed it. But now He was up on a mountain praying, and they were alone, ‘tossed by the waves.’ Why? Because sometimes the teacher has to step back in order to see how much the pupil has learned. Is that what’s happening in your life at the moment? The Sea of Galilee was only about thirteen miles long and seven and a half miles wide. But when the wind sweeps down from the Golan Heights it can churn those waters into a blender for two or three days, and it could sink a fishing boat like the one the disciples were in. Note the words, ‘tossed by the waves.’ Is that where you are today? In the middle of a divorce, tossed by guilt. In the middle of a home foreclosure, harangued by creditors? In the middle of an illness, tossed by pain, and an even more painful prognosis? ‘Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him…they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid’’’ (vv. 25-27 NKJV). Here are words worth writing down and recalling often: ‘…Take courage. I am here!’ (v. 27 NLT). You will never go where Jesus cannot reach you. Look over your shoulder; that’s Him following you. Look into the storm; that’s Him coming toward you. Today, open your eyes and recognise Him.

 

Deuteronomy 5-7, Mark 6:14-29, Psalm 37:1-7 , Proverbs 11:24-26

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

NEIGHBOUR FRIDAY

 Lord I pray for everyone living on my street, that they may find peace in the midst of the storms of life.  Bring refreshment to those who are tired.  Lead those who are making bad decisions back to a path that leads to hope and promise.  Comfort those who are struggling, and open people's ears to hear your voice.  Ask God to show you a neighbour who He wants you to pray for each day this week.

May His grace,favour and mercy envelope our lives as we journey in this new month in Jesus name !

2 MAY 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS (2)

‘…Forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another…’

Colossians 3:13

02 05 2013.

In Restoring Your Spiritual Passion, Gordon MacDonald writes: ‘One memory that burns deep within is that of a plane flight on which I was headed toward a meeting that would determine a major decision in my ministry. I knew I was in desperate need of a spiritual passion that would provide wisdom and submission to God’s purposes. But the passion was missing because I was steeped in resentment toward a colleague. For days I had tried everything to rid myself of vindictive thoughts toward that person. But try as I might, I would even wake in the night thinking of ways to subtly get back at him. I wanted to embarrass him for what he had done, to damage his credibility before his peers. My resentment was beginning to dominate me, and on that plane trip I came to a realisation of how bad things really were…As the plane entered the landing pattern, I found myself crying silently to God for the power both to forgive and to experience liberation from my poisoned spirit. Suddenly it was as if an invisible knife cut a hole in my chest and I literally felt a thick substance oozing from within. Moments later I felt as if I’d been flushed out. I’d lost negative spiritual weight, the kind I needed to lose. I was free. I fairly bounced off that plane and soon entered a meeting that did in fact change the entire direction of my life.’ Forgiveness: 1) Frees you from the grip of a negative force. 2) Positions you where God can bless you. 3) Teaches little people how to be big people.

​

Deuteronomy 3-4, Mark 6:7-13, Psalm 2 , Proverbs 11:22-23

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

THE TREASURY

 Pray for the Chancellor of the Exchequer and for all the staff at the Treasury.  Give thanks for those who work long hours to help manage and monitor the finances of our nation.  Pray that they will be alert to notice any errors or problems well ahead of time, and that they will act with integrity, and that the Holy Spirit will grant them wisdom in the decisions they make and the strategies they put in place.

1 MAY 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS (1)

‘…Forgiving each other, just as…God forgave you.

Ephesians 4:32

The power of forgiveness is an awesome thing. No relationship can survive without it, much less thrive. Whatever the issue, forgiveness sets both sides free, takes a weapon out of satan’s hands, and opens the door for God to go to work in the situation. This is never more so than in your family. The truth is, it’s easier to forgive an enemy you seldom see than a loved one you have to live with every day. But you must do it. George Herbert said, ‘He who cannot forgive others, breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself.’ Paul writes: ‘…Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love…’ (Colossians 3:12-14 NIV). Teach your children how to forgive. If you expose them to your anger, make sure that they’re also around when you show grace. Teach them how to deal with the issue, without attacking the person. Let them know that a difference of opinion can lead to a decision that makes things better for everyone, and that as a family member you can be ‘wrong’ and still be treated right. This may mean teaching them things you were never taught. If so, learn from your parents mistakes and don’t pass them on to your children. ‘…Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold’ (Ephesians 4:26-27 NIV). In other words, forgive when you are hurt, and don’t take your resentments to bed.

 

Deuteronomy 1-2, Mark 6:1-6, Psalm 35 , Proverbs 11:19-21

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

 Pray for those parts of the UK where new models of local government are taking shape – particularly where newly-elected mayors are beginning their term of office.  Pray that an atmosphere of co-operation and positive thinking will spring up in council chambers all over the nation, and that the distractions of old feuds and petty in-fighting will be pushed aside, so that all parties can work together for the good of the community they serve.

30 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

HAVE REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS (2)

‘…He knew what was in a man.’

John 2:25

2013-04-30. 

Here are three areas in which you must learn to have realistic expectations: 1) You must have realistic expectations of yourself. When you do things poorly you usually feel bad. That sets in motion a never-ending cycle of reaching for things that are out of reach, hoping to prove something you don’t have to prove in the first place. You think you should be able to do what others do, yet if you are not similarly gifted you cannot excel in it. You don’t need to prove anything! Just obey God, and allow Him to take care of your reputation. As long as you expect to excel outside your gifting and calling, you will always end up disappointed. 2) You must have realistic expectations in your relationships with others. To make yourself responsible for someone else’s happiness, or them for yours, leads to a life of frustration. Abraham Lincoln said, ‘Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.’ If people don’t have the right outlook in life, you, and a hundred others like you, won’t make them happy. 3) You must have realistic expectations concerning life. Jesus said, ‘…In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world’ (John 16:33 NKJV). As long as you’re in this world you’ll have problems. Nobody gets a free pass. But don’t worry; the Lord’s got everything under control. Just learn to be realistic. You will always have to deal with unpleasant situations, stubborn problems and difficult people. But your attitude (not theirs) is what determines whether or not you enjoy life.

Acts 27-28, Mark 5:31-43, Psalm 94:12-23, Proverbs 11:16-18

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

PARLIAMENT AND GOVERNMENT

 Father God, we thank You for the privilege of having a say in who leads our nation.  Despite all its imperfections, we thank You for the system of Parliament and Government which shapes how our nation is run.  We pray today for everyone involved in those institutions, that they will be tuned to Your Word, governed by Your precepts and filled with Your heart of compassion.  Guide their deliberations today, that Your will might prevail.

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

HAVE REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS (1)
‘…He knew what was in a man.’

John 2:252013-04-29.
 

Jesus saw the best in people and worked to bring it out. But He wasn’t naïve; He understood human frailty. When people disappointed Him, He didn’t retaliate in anger, or distance from them. What did He do? ‘…Many people saw the miraculous signs he was doing and believed in his name. But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all men. He did not need man’s testimony about man, for he knew what was in a man’ (vv. 23-25 NIV). Jesus constantly called people to a higher standard, but He understood that their best would still be imperfect. And you need to understand that about your loved ones too, and handle them accordingly. The perfect relationship, the perfect job, the perfect church and the perfect neighbourhood don’t exist! God knows that, so He gave us instructions on how to deal with people who disappoint us: ‘Bear (endure, carry) one another’s burdens and troublesome moral faults, and in this way fulfil and observe… the law of Christ…’ (Galatians 6:2 AMP). You say, ‘What is the law of Christ?’ Jesus said, ‘I give you a new commandment…Just as I have loved you, so you too should love one another’ (John 13:34 AMP). To love as Jesus loved, you must love without condition and without pressure. It’s easier to talk about how to treat the irritating people in your life than it is to do it. But the Lord never commands you to do something that He won’t give you the grace to carry out. And the great thing is, in the process of carrying it out you become more like Him.Acts 24-26,

Mark 5:21-30,

Psalm 94:1-11,

Proverbs 11:14-15TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINEVOTER TURN-OUT
 As we approach the season of local elections, pray that God’s Spirit will stir up a willingness in each of us to take responsibility for the destiny of our nation by praying, and by voting when it’s our turn to do so.  Pray that the sense of powerlessness and apathy which disenfranchises people will be completely wiped away, and that we will work together for the better future God has in store, regardless of our political persuasions.

28 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

WHATEVER IT TAKES

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

Proverbs 13:4

2013-04-28.

The word ‘diligence’ includes such qualities as hard work, honesty, persistence, and striving for excellence. The New Living Bible Translation puts it this way: ‘Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.’ One expert says, ‘Success doesn’t come from being a hundred percent better than your competition, but from being one percent better in a hundred different ways.’ Syndicated business columnist Dale Dauten says: ‘If you want to be creative in your company, your career or your life, it all comes down to one easy step…the extra one. When you encounter a familiar plan, you just ask one question: “What else could we do?’’’ To succeed you’ll have to do more—more than you may want, more than your competition, more than you think you’re capable of. The poet William Arthur Ward said: ‘I will do more than belong—I will participate. I will do more than care—I will help. I will do more than believe—I will practice. I will do more than be fair—I will be kind. I will do more than forgive—I will forget. I will do more than dream—I will work. I will do more than teach—I will inspire. I will do more than learn—I will enrich. I will do more than give—I will serve. I will do more than live—I will grow. I will do more than suffer—I will triumph.’ You can’t do whatever’s easiest and still reach your goal. You must do more. You must do ‘whatever it takes.’

 

Galatians 5:22, Luke 10:25-37, Ephesians 4:31-32, Genesis 50:15-21

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

PRAYER & ME

 Prayer is our access-point to the ‘more’ of Heaven.  As we work hard and invest ourselves fully in what we’re called to, we constantly discover that we’re not enough ... but there is more than enough of Him.  Lord, today I plunge myself afresh into the fountain of Your Spirit, to be renewed and replenished so that I can give my all to the things which You have asked me to do.

@Nwapastor,it's a pleasure ...

I mean APC could not be that clueless to select Tambuwal of PDP as their presidential candidate when the serial candidate is still there ....

Tomorrow is sunday . Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy !

27 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

LEARN TO BE TACTFUL

‘…I try to find common ground...’

1 Corinthians 9:22

2013-04-27.

Tact is the knack of making a point without making an enemy. To win someone over, you must first do two things: a) understand them; b) become comfortable with diversity. Paul wrote, ‘…So I can bring them to Christ…I try to find common ground with everyone…’ (vv. 21-22 NLT). Paul wouldn’t yield an inch when it came to the truth, but his strategy was always one of love. Whether he was speaking to Jews, Greeks, Romans or barbarians his message never varied. But his approach did. When people know you respect them you’re more effective at helping them to change. Speaking to those who were willing to alienate someone over a fine point of theology, Paul writes, ‘In Christ’s family…you are all equal…in a common relationship with Jesus…’ (Galatians 3:28 TM). Just think, when the saints of the ages gather round God’s throne to praise Him they will not only be from different continents and cultures, but different eras—the early church age and the space age. What a concert! But you won’t enjoy it if you’re so narrow that you only know one song, because they may not be singing that particular number over there. Some of God’s choicest characters were culturally diverse, like Moses, an Israelite raised in an Egyptian household to prepare him for his destiny. Or Peter, who was prejudiced enough to think that God only blessed Jews until God set him straight saying, ‘If I say someone’s acceptable, don’t you say they’re not’ (Acts 10:15 paraphrased). Evidently Peter got the message, for he wrote later, ‘Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth…love one another deeply…’ (1Peter 1:22 NIV). So, learn to be tactful.

Acts 22-23, Mark 5:11-20, Psalm 144:9-15, Proverbs 11:12-13

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

PRAYING FOR UCB

 Pray for protection for UCB staff who travel across the UK, networking with churches, ministries and potential partners; for safety on the roads and for their families when they are away from home.  May God open doors of opportunity for partnerships.  Give them a discerning instinct to know when to pursue a particular partnership, and to understand the timescale You want them to work to.  Lord, be glorified in all we do here at UCB.

26 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

SECURE IN GOD’S PRESENCE

‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.’

Exodus 33:14

2013-04-26.

Unless you spend time in God’s presence you will always have an underlying sense of insecurity. There are certain people we draw security from just by being around them; their presence and approach to life make us feel better. Likewise, when you need to be lifted and strengthened you must spend time with God. Being in His presence is like being in a room filled with perfume; you take the fragrance of it with you when you leave. Moses spent a great deal of time with God. He knew that without God’s presence he wasn’t worth two pence. Can you imagine being responsible for the daily care of two million people, getting them out of one country and into another—on foot? It’s mind-boggling. And as if that wasn’t bad enough, the Israelites spent much of their time complaining about their lot in life and finding fault with Moses. When things went wrong, he was their favourite target. It was an ideal situation for losing your mind. But God told Moses, ‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.’ God can give you rest in the midst of trouble, and peace in the midst of conflict. That includes a difficult workplace, or a home that’s in constant turmoil. God’s presence can help you to show love in the face of mistreatment, and patience in times of stress. It can help you to bring positive change without a lot of words, and end up feeling good about the way you handled things. So spend time in God’s presence today.

 

Acts 20-21, Mark 5:1-10, Psalm 144:1-8, Proverbs 11:10-11

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

PRAYING FOR UCB

 Pray for protection for UCB staff who travel across the UK, networking with churches, ministries and potential partners; for safety on the roads and for their families when they are away from home.  May God open doors of opportunity for partnerships.  Give them a discerning instinct to know when to pursue a particular partnership, and to understand the timescale You want them to work to.  Lord, be glorified in all we do here at UCB.

Of course he has no case to answer but let's not forget he definitely has huge cases to answer before almighty God startin with the looting at SGB ....

God is watching !

Rotimi Amaechi should watch out cos Jonathan has a date with destiny !

25 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

THE COST OF A GOD-GIVEN DREAM (3)

‘…I have suffered the loss of all things...’

Philippians 3:8

2013-04-25 

Stop and listen carefully to what some of the people around you are saying. Many of them express regret because they backed off from their dream of earlier years: a career not pursued, an opportunity left unseized, a relationship allowed to wither and die. Decades later, they come back to it and think more about it. But for some, it’s too late. They can’t achieve their dream at any price. For others, the dream is possible but the price is much higher. In his book, Put Your Dream to the Test, Dr. John Maxwell writes: ‘Going after a dream is like climbing a mountain. We will never make it to the summit if we are carrying too much weight. As we enter each new phase of the climb, we face a decision. Do we take on more things to carry, lay down things that won’t help us climb, exchange what we have for something else, or stop climbing altogether? Most people try to take too many things with them…when successful people climb, they let go of things or start changing them in order to reach a higher level…The payments required for reaching a dream never stop. The journey continues only if you keep paying the price. The higher you want to go, the more you must give up. The greater the price you pay, the greater the joy you feel when you finally reach your dream.’ Someone said a task without a vision is drudgery. A vision without a task is daydreaming. But a task with a vision is the pathway to victory and achievement.

Acts 18-19, Mark 4:35-41, Psalm 7:10-17, Proverbs 11:7-9

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

PRAYING FOR OPPORTUNITIES

 Many of us shy away from the idea of witnessing, fearful of not having answers to people's questions, yet witnesses are just required to share their experience.Ask the Holy Spirit to empower you to be a witnessPray for the courage to speak about your faith to your friendsPray for wisdom for what to say and how to say itPray for eyes to see the opportunities that the Lord gives you

24 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

THE COST OF A GOD-GIVEN DREAM (2)

‘…I have worked…been in prison…been flogged...'

2 Corinthians 11:23

2013-04-24. 

Second, there’s the ongoing cost. We all want what successful people have. The problem is we don’t want to pay the price they paid initially, and continue to pay every day. Paul spells out the true story behind his success: ‘…I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. I have laboured and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches’ (2 Corinthians 11:23-28 NIV). Most of us have a vague notion that someday we’ll have to make sacrifices, but the price will have to be paid sooner than we think. Not expecting that, many of us become discouraged. Some of us table our dreams, putting them on hold. Others have abandoned them entirely. The question you must answer is: ‘Twenty-five years from now, what will I wish I had done today?’ That’s the cost of a God-given dream.

Acts 16-17, Mark 4:30-34, Psalm 7:1-9, Proverbs 11:3-6

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

FREEDOM FOR CAPTIVES

 Those without Christ are pictured in the Bible as being imprisoned by passions, pleasures and sin as surely as if they were behind physical bars.  The good news is that the price for their release has been paid!Pray that whatever passions and pleasures are holding people captive will lose their appealPray that any addictions will be brokenPray that your friends will desire true freedom and praise God that freedom is possible!

23 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

THE COST OF A GOD-GIVEN DREAM (1)

‘…I consider everything a loss…compared to…’

Philippians 3:8

2013-04-23.

Your dream will never be fulfilled unless you’re willing to pay the price that comes with it. And that price is paid not once, but over a lifetime. First, there’s the initial cost. You will have to make personal and sometimes painful sacrifices. You may have to walk away from attractive options and valued relationships because they don’t fit into God’s plan for your life. Leaving things that have given you your security and your identity will require grit and grace that only God can provide. Paul’s résumé included being ‘…of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews…a Pharisee’ (v. 5 NIV). Paul once had wealth and status. Scholars reckon that when he committed his life to Christ, as was customary, his friends and family would have held a funeral service and considered him ‘dead’ to them from that point forward. Paul’s calling was to cover Asia with the gospel and write half the New Testament. But great assignments call for great sacrifice. And Paul wasn’t alone. ‘By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward’ (Hebrews 11:24-26 NIV). So the question is: Has God given you a dream? Do you have the faith and fortitude to fulfil it? Have you counted the cost and are you ready to pay it? 

Acts 14-15, Mark 4:21-29, Psalm 16, Proverbs 11:1-2

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

FREEDOM FOR CAPTIVES

 Those without Christ are pictured in the Bible as being imprisoned by passions, pleasures and sin as surely as if they were behind physical bars.  The good news is that the price for their release has been paid!Pray that whatever passions and pleasures are holding people captive will lose their appealPray that any addictions will be brokenPray that your friends will desire true freedom and praise God that freedom is possible!

22 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

YOUR HEART CONDITION

‘Above all…guard your heart…it is the wellspring of life.’

Proverbs 4:23

2013-04-22. 

Heart disease will kill you if you don’t detect it and treat it in time. That is true— physically and spiritually. It’s why the Bible says, ‘Above all…guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.’ Wanting to look your best is commendable. It can enhance your sense of self-worth and improve your prospects in life. But it’s a big mistake to dwell on your appearance and neglect your character. When all is said and done, ‘…Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart’ (1Samuel 16:7 NIV). This is where the Bible comes into play. It’s like a mirror; it shows you the condition of your heart at any given moment. So, how’s your heart today? What kind of thoughts are you entertaining? Are you constantly comparing and resenting? Do you get easily upset? When you hear gossip do you silence it or spread it? Jesus said, ‘Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God’ (Matthew 5:. In other words, when you start to see things God’s way you’ll act accordingly. If the water in the well is polluted it will make you sick. Indeed, if you drink enough, it can kill you. What’s the point? Simply this: It’s not enough to try to change your bad habits; you’ve got to go to the heart of your problem—which is the problem of your heart! The Psalmist realised this so he prayed, ‘Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me’ (Psalms 51:10 KJV). If you want God to prosper you, get your heart right.

 

Acts 12-13, Mark 4:10-20, Psalm 103:13-22, Proverbs 10:30-32

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

FROM DEATH TO LIFE

 When we pray for our friends to find Jesus, our role is to pray that the Holy Spirit will 'overshadow' them, that they may live!Pray that the Holy Spirit will quicken their spiritPray that they will 'wake up' to the truth of the gospelPray for signs that new spiritual life is growing in them – a more sensitive conscience, a greater interest in the gospel, questioning about the meaning of life, etc

21 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

‘THANK YOU’

‘…He will not forget how hard you have worked for him...’

Hebrews 6:10

2013-04-21.

Are you thinking, ‘I do so much for others; now I just want a little appreciation in return’? But there doesn’t seem to be any coming, so you feel unappreciated and taken for granted. Just two simple words, but oh how much they mean: ‘Thank you!’ Has it been a long time since you heard them? If so, understand this: others may fail to thank you, but your heavenly Father appreciates all that you do and all that you are. Your work may go uncelebrated, but it will not go unrewarded. God has put you exactly where He needs you. You are fulfilling His purpose every day. Once you accept that, you’ll find joy and meaning in what you’re doing. God is the reason—others are just the beneficiaries! Don’t let someone else’s response decide your level of joy. They may not notice, but God does. He observes every day and every detail of your life. ‘God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do.’ Paul writes, ‘Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord…’ (Colossians 3:17 NIV). That’s it—do it for Him! Why don’t you pray this prayer: ‘Lord, all that I do, I do for You. I know that You appreciate me; look at the blessings You’ve given me! So I will praise and honour You throughout this day with my thoughts, my words and my deeds. In Christ’s name. Amen.’

Galatians 5:22, 2 Peter 3:3-5, Matthew 5:39, 1 Samuel 25:1-42

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

FROM DEATH TO LIFE

 When we pray for our friends to find Jesus, our role is to pray that the Holy Spirit will 'overshadow' them, that they may live!Pray that the Holy Spirit will quicken their spiritPray that they will 'wake up' to the truth of the gospelPray for signs that new spiritual life is growing in them – a more sensitive conscience, a greater interest in the gospel, questioning about the meaning of life, etc.

21 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

‘THANK YOU’

‘…He will not forget how hard you have worked for him...’

Hebrews 6:10

2013-04-21.

Are you thinking, ‘I do so much for others; now I just want a little appreciation in return’? But there doesn’t seem to be any coming, so you feel unappreciated and taken for granted. Just two simple words, but oh how much they mean: ‘Thank you!’ Has it been a long time since you heard them? If so, understand this: others may fail to thank you, but your heavenly Father appreciates all that you do and all that you are. Your work may go uncelebrated, but it will not go unrewarded. God has put you exactly where He needs you. You are fulfilling His purpose every day. Once you accept that, you’ll find joy and meaning in what you’re doing. God is the reason—others are just the beneficiaries! Don’t let someone else’s response decide your level of joy. They may not notice, but God does. He observes every day and every detail of your life. ‘God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do.’ Paul writes, ‘Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord…’ (Colossians 3:17 NIV). That’s it—do it for Him! Why don’t you pray this prayer: ‘Lord, all that I do, I do for You. I know that You appreciate me; look at the blessings You’ve given me! So I will praise and honour You throughout this day with my thoughts, my words and my deeds. In Christ’s name. Amen.’

Galatians 5:22, 2 Peter 3:3-5, Matthew 5:39, 1 Samuel 25:1-42

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

FROM DEATH TO LIFE

 When we pray for our friends to find Jesus, our role is to pray that the Holy Spirit will 'overshadow' them, that they may live!Pray that the Holy Spirit will quicken their spiritPray that they will 'wake up' to the truth of the gospelPray for signs that new spiritual life is growing in them – a more sensitive conscience, a greater interest in the gospel, questioning about the meaning of life, etc.

20 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

ARE YOU SEARCHING FOR CONTENTMENT?

‘My people have...forsaken...the...living water, and...dug ...broken cisterns.’

Jeremiah 2:13

2013-04-20

It's easy to be content when things in life are going your way. But how often does that happen? The Bible says we are to practice being 'happy at any time in everything' (Philippians 4:12 NCV), because if you put your life on hold waiting for what you want to happen, you may be waiting a long time! Epicurus said, 'Don't spoil what you have, by desiring what you don't have. Remember that what you now have was the thing you once hoped for.' Three things constantly feed our discontentment: 1) Greed. When you dwell on what you don't have, you're not enjoying what God's already given you. Be satisfied! Setting goals is good, but stop focusing so hard on the end result and learn to rejoice in the Lord while you're on your way 2) Fear. It wants you to run from something that's not chasing you. It's the enemy's way of a) robbing you of peace and stability b) tormenting you with the 'what ifs' c) keeping you from trusting God. The Psalmist said, 'In God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?' (Psalm 56:4 NIV) 3) Seeking satisfaction in the wrong places. God said, 'My people have...forsaken...the...living water, and...dug...broken cisterns that cannot hold water.' It's said that we spend our first 50 years searching for security, and the rest of our lives looking for significance. But we don't have to. The hymn writer wrote, 'Now none but Christ can satisfy; no other name for me. There's love, life, and lasting joy, Lord Jesus found in Thee!' Are you searching for contentment? Try Jesus!

Acts 10-11, Mark 4:1-9, Psalm 103:1-12, Proverbs 10:27-29

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

FROM DEATH TO LIFE

 When we pray for our friends to find Jesus, our role is to pray that the Holy Spirit will 'overshadow' them, that they may live!Pray that the Holy Spirit will quicken their spiritPray that they will 'wake up' to the truth of the gospelPray for signs that new spiritual life is growing in them – a more sensitive conscience, a greater interest in the gospel, questioning about the meaning of life, etc.

19 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

DON’T LOSE CONTROL!

‘…Anger resides in the lap of fools.’

Ecclesiastes 7:9

2013-04-19.

The word ‘anger’ is just one letter short of the word ‘danger.’ When you lose control you risk losing other things as well, like the respect of others or the chance to find a constructive solution. Anger toward human suffering is not only appropriate; it’s the catalyst for change. Paul writes, ‘…Be angry…but…don’t stay angry…’ (Ephesians 4:26 TM). The Chinese have a saying: ‘Anger is the wind that blows out the lamp of the mind.’ So: 1) Before you react, take a walk. It burns off excess adrenaline and it’s more effective than stewing. It also helps you to think more clearly and handle things in a way you won’t regret. ‘A quick-tempered man does foolish things…’ (Proverbs 14:17 NIV). 2) Recognise the things you can’t control. You can’t control other people’s attitudes and actions, or unforeseen events such as cancelled flights and traffic jams. ‘What should I do?’ you ask. Count your blessings, particularly the fact that you have God, salvation, your health, your family, your job, and a car to get to it, etc. 3) Be careful where you vent. It’s one thing to be angry; it’s another to ‘sound off’ at the wrong time. ‘A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards’ (Proverbs 29:11 KJV). It’s okay to share your feelings with those you trust and who are not the targets of your anger. But be careful, your words can come back and bite you! 4) Keep your distance from angry people. The Bible says, ‘Don’t hang out with angry people…’ (Proverbs 22:24 TM). Anger, like joy and gratitude, is contagious, so keep your distance.

Acts 8-9, Mark 3:28-35, Psalm 130, Proverbs 10:24-26

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

FROM DEATH TO LIFE

 When we pray for our friends to find Jesus, our role is to pray that the Holy Spirit will 'overshadow' them, that they may live!Pray that the Holy Spirit will quicken their spiritPray that they will 'wake up' to the truth of the gospelPray for signs that new spiritual life is growing in them – a more sensitive conscience, a greater interest in the gospel, questioning about the meaning of life, etc.

18 APRIL 2013

TODAY'S WORD FOR TODAY

GOD’S TIMETABLE

‘By your patience possess your souls.’

Luke 21:19

2013-04-18.

When God makes you wait for something longer than you want to, He’s teaching you patience. Your emotions are like a wild horse—they need to be reined in. ‘Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised’ (Hebrews 10:36 NLT). Your impatience will just make you and everybody around you miserable, but it won’t rush God. He works according to His own plan and timetable: ‘…In due season we shall reap…’ (Galatians 6:9). ‘Due season’ is God’s season, not yours. You’re in a hurry, He isn’t. He takes time to do things right. You may not know what He’s doing, but He does. And that’ll have to be good enough for you. God’s timing seems to be His own business. He’s never late, but He usually isn’t early either. He takes every opportunity to develop in you the fruit of patience. But other fruits are being developed in you as well. There are several things that must arrive at the finish line at the same time in order for you to win the race. Developed potential, without character, doesn’t glorify God. If you were to become a huge success and yet be arrogant and harsh with people, that wouldn’t be pleasing to the Lord. So when you get ahead of yourself in one area, He gently but firmly blocks your progress in that area until the others catch up. You don’t appreciate any of this while it’s happening, but later on you realise what a mess you’d have made if things had been done on your timetable instead of God’s.

 

Acts 6-7, Mark 3:20-27, Psalm 75, Proverbs 10:22-23

TODAY'S PRAYER - FROM PRAYER FOR TODAY MAGAZINE

FROM DEATH TO LIFE

 When we pray for our friends to find Jesus, our role is to pray that the Holy Spirit will 'overshadow' them, that they may live!Pray that the Holy Spirit will quicken their spiritPray that they will 'wake up' to the truth of the gospelPray for signs that new spiritual life is growing in them – a more sensitive conscience, a greater interest in the gospel, questioning about the meaning of life, etc.