Thank God I'm Forgiven! Say that out loud and bring it to bear over you and your circumstances. Lift thanksgiving and praise as you begin your time with God and build momentum for the day ahead!

Good Morning Redeemed, Restored, Faithful to God and His Ways, Blessing Casting Followers of Jesus! Hmmm...say what? Say it again...pronounce it out loud. You are very loved, forgiven, redeemed, restored, child of God and your words matter! Speak over yourself and circumstances in agreement with God who is with you always an working ALL things together for your good and the good of those who He is leading to faith. Speak Truth, love and blessings, healing, hope and joy out loud. Read His Word and promises out loud. Stop cursing yourself and circumstances and start believing in God and His promises and pronounce them from your heart of faith. Our words matter! 

Check out the flow of this through our devotionals below and pray in agreement with harvest prayer. This is the day the Lord has made! PTL! Rejoice! Lift Praise, And pronounce many blessings over you and your day as you prepare to go live and love like Jesus! You are God's chosen, very loved, forgiven much vessel of revival. Say that out loud as you prepare to go live and love more like Jesus! Bring your prayers and God's heart to life today! God does have some awesome plans for you! Rejoice, prepare and go in His power! Amen!

Stop and praise God and pray for our church leadership team. We had an amazing meeting last evening. God is on the move and truly does have some great things in store for us for the rest of the year and for 2025. Keep praying, praising, pronouncing, believing and follow Him! We are on our way to become His dynamic movement! PTL! Pray for our Finance Team as they have been directed towards budgeting according to God's plans. Pray we would be the best stewards of all His blessings while sowing lavishly and following earnestly! Yesterday I began disciple making training under an old friend from Bible College who is a church planter and very fruitful disciple maker. Pray for us to discern God's plans for me and us and for wisdom to bring them to life. Pray for a few to be raised up to enter the process with me after the New Year. What's God have for you in His Good News Delivery Company? Who is He leading you to partner with? Who is He bringing to mind to pray for and share His love and Good News? Keep seeking, knocking and committed to earnestly sowing and following Him. Revival is coming! Say that out loud in prayer and praise today. God is doing some old things in new relevant ways! Can you perceive it? What's your part? We were one way and we are being transformed to His image more and moved to His plans and to being His new vessels (wine skins) and His new way for us! Surrender to Him in prayer and invite Him to come have His way with you and us. Then believe and cast blessings! Amen!

Watch for some exciting new opportunities to join Jesus and expand His Kingdom! He is on the move! Hallelujah! He does have very good plans for you and us! Plans to prosper and not harm. Plans that lead to our future and hope! Amen! Start praying earnestly for who He wants to bless through you and for who He may be wanting you to invite to experience our loving, joyful fellowship and His presence! Then start following Him to be the answer to your prayers and pronouncements! I'm praying like crazy for you and us! And God loves to answer those kind of prayers. Keep your eyes on Jesus and watch expectantly for His new things with willing hearts on fire for God!!!

TWFYT: (Yes this is yesterday's reading but God had me skip that and come back to it today because it is relevant) 

Joyce Meyer

ODB

UR: Peace from Prayer

Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” - John 14:27 (NIV)

The months following my cancer diagnosis felt incredibly long. There were medical appointments, several scans and tests, followed by more appointments, and then waiting for surgery. One week after surgery, I met with the surgeon to review results and discuss next steps.

That morning I began my devotion time by reading The Upper Room, a habit I’ve had for almost 40 years. The writer talked about her anxiety over an upcoming medical appointment and how she calmed her fears by thinking about the many friends who were praying for her. Over the next hour, I received text messages from several friends telling me they were praying for me that morning.

I have felt remarkable peace going through this process, praise the Lord! I attribute that to prayers on my behalf and the comfort of knowing that Jesus walks with me. I’ve also tried to focus on what God may be trying to teach me. I am learning a lot about patience, perspective, and perseverance. Most of all, I am reminded daily to trust God, who provides “the peace . . . which transcends all understanding” (Phil. 4:7).

Today's Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we go through challenging times, help us to put our trust in you. Help us also to remember others in our prayers and support them as they face difficult situations. Amen.

Harvest Prayer

Good Morning Brothers and Sisters in Christ! We are one as He and the Father are one. He lives in us and wants to love through us and lead us to His best. COME! Help us to live and love like You Lord! Holy Spirit, speak to our hearts, inform our prayers and direct our steps as we continue to seek, knock and open the door for you to come sit on the throne of our hearts. Father, help us to be love, joy and peace bringers today. We need You always! We love You. Help us to stay connected to the Vine and bring life giving sap of Your love to those that need it today. Revive us! Unite us! Prepare us! Lead us, Good Shepherd. Thank You! Yes, come! Fill us to overflowing with Your love, wisdom, healing and help. May we go love like You today and be blessed as You use us to be a blessing. Thank You! Amen!

Are your hearts troubled today? I awoke before 3am this morning struggling in prayer for our brothers and sisters who are grieving, hurting, confused and feeling lost and hopeless. The Bible reminds us to cast all anxiety to our Lord and to receive His peace. So I am and asking for His heart and mind to fill me to overflowing to go love like Him today--always. Proverbs 14:30 says, "A heart at peace gives life to the body." Now that may be talking about the healthful effects that being at peace brings to our physical bodies. Science proves that it is healthy to not be anxious and to dwell in peace. Jesus is our Prince of Peace and the True Vine. Let us abide in Him today and receive His life giving sap of love and fill up to go overflow with love, joy and peace to others. But this Proverb could be applied to the Body of Christ as well as those of us who have hearts at peace are sent to comfort, strengthen and bring life to the rest of the Body as we allow Christ to love through us. Jesus promised in the Sermon on the Mount that God comfort those who mourn. How does He want to use you to be that comfort and peace today? Ask for His help to go live and love like Jesus and do it!

God took us to some deep places last evening during our Chosen dinner huddle. That has overflowed into my quiet time today and will inform this blog as I prayed for God to inform my prayers, writing, and actions today. Last night we discussed what seems like an ever, rapidly increasing sense of grief, doubt, confusion, fear and despair to be rising all around us. These certainly are uncertain times, yet God promises peace and rest to the weary. It seems like so many around us are struggling with grief of loss of loved ones and moving through the process of grief caused by sickness, disease, divorce, and lack. Now add to that those who are deeply grieving the election results. How can we minister to so many hurting brothers and sister? Well, we need Christ's love and the Holy Spirit's help for sure. We need to die to self and agape love. We need to stop leaning on our own understanding and pursue the mind and heart of Christ with the intent to bring it alive to our hurting brothers and sisters. Ask for His help to be His vessel today. Ask to see and understand the hearts of others who are in deep grief. Last night we discussed how Peter ministered to Thomas in this episode. Peter didn't know what to say or do for his hurting brother in Christ and asked Jesus. How did Jesus respond? He said sometimes words don't help. Sometimes we just need to be present, listen and love on them. Who needs the presence of Christ and His love and comfort today? God does have plans for you. Step into them!

I'm only going to say this about the election results: Some are rejoicing and some are grieving. God's Church is made up of all kinds of people, left or right, strong or weak, happy or mourning and we are called to unity and to love like Jesus. Do it! Live Christ today! If you are feeling happy and victorious today, remember what it was like for you four years ago when your hopes were dashed. Remember your disbelief and grief? How might you love on someone who is at that place today? If you are confused and in grief, please allow your brothers and sisters in to love on you and walk with you. Let us all determine to be unified in Christ and His plans and to love each other, encourage and spur each other on and focus not on things of this earth but things above. Turn off the noise and chaos and dwell in Love as you stay connected to the Life Giving Vine. We need each other and God does have plans for Jew and Gentile, Republican and Democrat, strong and weak, happy and mourning. In this life, Christ is all that matters. Choose to live and love like Him and build up His Church. Let us choose to be the example of what it means to be one in Christ and to love like Him! Amen! Help us Lord! Let us commit together to change the world for Christ as we stay united in Love and go love well. Reach out and love on a brother or sister today. Humble yourself. Be Christ!

OK this is getting way to long, but so critical. I have a pile of about ten devos that flow into this heart and Word for today that God has given me. I'll let you abide in the Vine and God's Word on your own today as you seek, knock and ask for His heart and mind to love well, receive healing and hope, and to keep your focus on Him always. Jesus is Love! He is the Prince of Peace. He is the Light of the World. He is our hope and help in times of trouble. Stay connected and allow Him to lead you today! I am pouring my heart out for you, for our hurting brothers and sisters and for the world that wrongly thinks His Church is a place of hate. Let us be the example of how to truly live and love well--His unified Body. Amen

"A heart at peace gives life to the body." Lord, bring Your peace, healing, hope, comfort and love alive. Send me! Come! Help! Amen

Today: Bread Ministry 10-12; EC Day of Fasting and Prayer to become a dynamic movement of God (Pray with our bishop 12-12:30 (live from Fellowship Hall); Chosen Dinner Huddle and Family Ministries 6-8

Tomorrow Vison Team Zoom Meeting 6:30 pm. Please pray for us to have God's dreams, visions and plans as we seek to follow Him and plan for the rest of the year. This meeting will inform our budgeting process too. Pray for God's wisdom and heart for us to sow lavishly and steward wisely all His blessings. Thanks!

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Good Morning Abiding, Delighting in God, Directed Followers of Jesus! Amen! Be still and know He is God as you still yourself at His feet and allow and invite Him to inform your prayers and steps today. He has great plans just for you today! PTL! Strip off the old, step into your new nature, your true identity and allow God to lead you and use you and grow you more like Jesus. Flow through the devotionals below as God speaks to your heart and loves on you. You can know His peace as you still yourself, yoke to Jesus and allow Him to speak to your heart and lead you to His still waters and green pastures today. Amen! 

Harvest Prayer begins things  today with the reminder to be God focused. Sarah Young continues this track with the reminder to keep seeking God first and to abide in Him. Start everyday delighting in the Lord and travel through each day with praise and adoration as you keep your mind fixed on things above. Opening His Word helps too and helps us to be truthful about ourselves, our choices and with God. He already knows you and loves you. Be transparent and truthful and allow Him to lead you to wisdom and Truth. God wants to heal you and help you. Invite Him to do so as you still yourself and abide in him and His Word today and He will lead you to experience His peace--a peace beyond understanding. He sure does love you and we have so much to be thankful about as we allow Him to forgive, refresh and lead us beside the still waters of peace and then to those fresh, productive, fruit producing, green pastures. Oh what joy we can truly know and live! Thanks Lord! Help us to abide, share openly with you, receive and repent and follow You well today. Thanks for the plans you have for me/us today to prosper and bring a future and a hope. Thanks for all the answered prayers! Help me/us to complete our races well as we work on becoming more like Jesus today. Amen! May Your Kingdom come and will be done in, through and around me today. Be glorified! Amen!

I've been praying and abiding since 2:30 this morning. God has refreshed and will lead me revived into this long day of ministry and service. Thanks Lord! Hear our prayers and prepare us all for Your plans for today and move us to step into them fresh and informed! Thanks! Amen!

Harvest:

November 6 - Be God Focused A young wealthy man wanted feedback from Jesus concerning his walk with the Lord. Jesus challenged him with the answer: Sell your possessions and follow Me. The young man walked away disheartened. Matthew 19:17-19, 21, 23-24, 26: “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” … “Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as yourself.” … “If you wish to be perfect, go sell your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” … “I tell you the truth, it will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven! Again I say, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter into the kingdom of God”.… “This is impossible for mere humans, but for God all things are possible.” God is the Source. He must be the focal point of our lives; if anything else distracts, we’re missing the fullness of who we can be in the Lord. God draws all people unto Himself, and He transforms the most difficult cases to follow Him. Lord, thank You for making all things possible! I repent for any time I’ve been so concerned with this world that I’ve held back from walking with You. I repent for when I’ve judged my walk as satisfactory, instead of asking You about it. I repent for any time I’ve refrained from following You, Your ways, Your wisdom. I repent for when I’ve failed to acknowledge that Jesus has made my salvation and perfection possible.  Regardless of what happened in the past, I declare You make all things possible. The most hardened of hearts, You can bring to a blessed place of desiring You. I declare I will hold nothing back from obeying You and Your commands. I thank You that You’re good. I thank You that Your love is complete and all encompassing. I thank You that You make me able to do what is impossible in the flesh. I thank You that You have formed me in my mother’s womb and shaped me into a vessel usable by You. I thank You that I’m fearfully and wonderfully made. I thank You I lack nothing through You.  I praise You that You’re the miracle-working God. I praise You that You’re omniscient and omnipresent. I praise You that You’re always willing to dialogue with me. I praise You that You desire to glorify Yourself via my life. I praise You for who You are! --Adapted from Praying What Jesus Says by Natasha Miller. This book is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount. Prayer Points Praise God, your Father and great Teacher. Give thanks for teachers and mentors who helped make your paths straight (Prov. 3:6). Confess that you sometimes focus more on their quirks than their virtues. Commit yourself to noticing the good in those who can teach you more about faith. Ask God how you can best support education in your church. Claim the Holy Spirit’s power to woo family members or friends who say Christianity makes no sense.    Prayer Pointer “A man’s state before God may always be measured by his prayers.” —J. C. Ryle Connection (Devotions for Everyday Life) © 2024 is a free devotional published daily by Harvest Prayer Ministries. Subscribe here.

CS:

UR: Tracks to safety

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. - Psalm 119:105 (NIV)

I remember being caught in a snowstorm while driving through a high mountain pass. The snow soon developed into a blizzard, and I was unable to see more than a few feet ahead. But a truck in front of me was leaving tire tracks in the six-inch deep snow, so I did the only thing I could; I followed the tracks. If it had driven off the cliff, I would have been right behind! Eventually, though, the truck led me down the mountain to safety.

That experience caused me to remember these words from Psalm 119: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Spiritually speaking, it can be as difficult for us to know the way forward as it was for me to find my way in that snowstorm. Temptations may be intense at times. Or we may simply find ourselves at a fork in the road, unsure of which path to take. No matter the cause, the way forward for us at times may not be clear. But when we rely on the wisdom of Psalm 119, God’s word can dispel the darkness and reveal the way we should go. When we are grounded in scripture, God’s guidance keeps us ready for any trial.

Today's Prayer

Dear God, help us to hear your voice speaking to us through scripture, especially in difficult times. Guide us each day, and reassure us of your presence with us. Amen.ODB:

CS:

TWFYT:

JM

See Harvest prayer for the election below

Good Morning Faithful Remnant of God! May that be us always! Please Lord! Your Kingdom come and will be done today and always! Come! This is the day the Lord has made and we are rejoicing in it and praising Your holy name. We trust you Lord and cast all our anxiety on You. Thanks for creating and molding and sending us for such a time as this. May we be bringers of Good News today and always. You are our God and we trust You. You have a plan for the world that we get to be part of. Thank You! Hear our prayers. Forgive our sins. Heal our Land. Come Jesus Come! Revive us, this region, nation and the world. Thanks. May we have fair elections today as you raise up your servants. We bind all cheating and evil in the name of Jesus. May Your Spirit come and guide our voting and our lives. May we glorify You today and always. You are sovereign and in control, We trust You. Use us well for Your glory always. May Jesus be high and lifted up in and through us as we ask these things in His mighty name. Amen!

OK enough of that! Let us focus on who we are in Christ and our mission from Him to go change the world as we live and love like Jesus and share the Good News that saved us. May we live Christ well as we keep our focus on Jesus--the King of the Universe! Amen! 

The Word for You Today continues with Eph. 2:10. What a great reminder and refocusing that brings. We are known, loved, created to love and sent to go love like Jesus. Agape love=dying to self and loving as Jesus loved us. Help us Lord. That is what will change the world. Loving like Jesus! That is our mission and focus. Turn off all the other noise and tune into Him. Our Daily Bread uses the beloved 23rd Psalm. Let us recite and embrace that today as we choose joy and allow Jesus to be our Shepherd. Invite Him in and walk with Him today. The Lord is my Shepherd! Is He yours? He will walk with you always and lead you beside the still waters and to the green pastures. Amen! The Upper Room uses Phil. 4's reminder that God will bring His peace beyond understanding! Will you allow that shalom to overflow you. Nothing is too big or small for our God who is able to do according to His will and with all the riches of heaven. Sarah Young reminds us how close God is all the time and that we just need to turn off the noise and look and listen for that whisper of love and encouragement. He loves you and is with you. Sit at His feet, worship, recharge and grow in faith that leads you through today as you follow your Good Shepherd! What a wonderful life we can know despite our circumstances or the state of our nation. Keep your focus on God and your feet following the Good Shepherd and life will just flow well. May springs of Living Water overflow from you today. Amen! Go Light up the world today as you live and love like Jesus! Amen! I'm praying you have a great day filled with love, joy, peace and God's presence. See you at 10 for Zoom Huddle (if I'm back from voting!) Shalom

TWFYT

ODB

UR: Labyrinth

The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

When my husband of 25 years told me he thought our marriage was over, I was stunned, devastated, and afraid. For a few weeks, I walked around in a daze — going through the motions of my life but not really living it.

Shortly after, I had the opportunity to walk a prayer labyrinth, an ancient practice used for centering, contemplation, and prayer. This labyrinth was located on a cliff overlooking the ocean.

As I followed the winding path, my senses were awakened. I became aware of God’s creation surrounding me. I felt the warmth of the sun, smelled the nearby flowering shrubs, and heard waves crashing on the shore below. I brought my devastation and fears to God as I traversed the twists and turns of the labyrinth. When I reached the center, I surrendered my marriage and entrusted my future to God, who loves me unconditionally.

The peace that overwhelmed my soul when I surrendered my fears to God sustained me through this past year. Fear can leave us struggling to get our bearings, to see a clear path forward. Centering ourselves in Christ gives us an anchor to hold on to and a guide to walk with us through the most challenging times.

Today's Prayer

Dear God, may we always be aware of your presence with us and turn to you when we are afraid. We long for the peace you have promised through Jesus Christ. Amen.

SY

Harvest:

November 5 - DAY 40 OF 40 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR OUR NATION    ELECTION DAY! Praying For God’s Will To Be Done In The 2024 Election “This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (James 6:9-10 NIV).   Andy Stanley wrote an article published in Time Magazine before the 2020 election. Here are some excerpts to inform how we approach this election day with our God: “Nothing divides like politics, because nothing divides like fear. But what exactly, in the context of our current election, are we afraid of? The answer is the same for everyone at the macro level: we fear loss. We are afraid of losing control, safety, power, opportunity, status, rights, freedom.”   He continues: “Our hope is not in the perfect political party. Our hope is the message and teaching of Jesus. During our oh-so-short history as a nation, both of our current political parties and their leaders have gotten it wrong; they have failed us morally; they have failed us in terms of their leadership. Why would we as followers of an eternal king allow ourselves to be divided by temporary political systems, leaders or platforms? And why would we allow ourselves to be divided by fear? Jesus’ most oft-repeated command was fear not, fear not, fear not. Instead, we must love one another as we struggle and sacrifice for the unity Jesus prayed for.”   Lord God, during this election, we seek to better understand the issues and concerns that confront our city/state/country, and how the Gospel compels us to respond as faithful citizens in our community. We ask for eyes that are free from blindness so that we might see each other as brothers and sisters, one and equal in dignity, especially those who are victims of abuse and violence, as well as deceit and poverty. We ask for ears that will hear the cries of the unborn and those abandoned. We ask our minds and hearts to be open to the voices of leaders who will bring us closer to your Kingdom. We pray for discernment so we may choose leaders who hear your Word, live your love, and keep in the ways of your truth as they follow in the steps of Jesus and his Apostles and guide us to your Kingdom of justice and peace. We ask this in the name of your Son Jesus Christ and through the power of the Holy Spirit. - Author Unknown Prayer Points Pray that God’s will be done in our election on earth as in heaven. Pray that all believers would make requests, prayers, intercession, and give thanks on behalf of all people – especially those who are in authority over us in our nation today. (1 Timothy 2:1-4) Pray that we might lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity. (1 Timothy 2:1-4) Pray for lost people who are running for office and those voting for our leaders, because it is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth! (1 Timothy 2:1-4) Pray for the Holy Spirit to stir a desire for truth, justice, and peace in the hearts of all Americans, and ask God to pour out revival on His people and spiritual awakening across our land! To view our prayer leader video or for more resources visit www.40DaysUSA.com. Connection (Devotions for Everyday Life) © 2024 is a free devotional published daily by Harvest Prayer Ministries. Subscribe here. Connection Prayer Devotions Sign Up

This Week:

Tonight @ 6PM Pray for the elections (this is a national effort to pray unified as His Body) Just pause at 6pm to pray.

Tues 10-11 Zoom Huddle

Wed 10-12 Bread Ministry; 12-12:30 EC Day of Fasting and Prayer to become a dynamic movement of God.; 6-8pm Chosen Dinner Huddle

Thurs 6:30. Vision Team Meeting (Pray for wisdom and discernment of God's plans as this meeting will inform our budgeting process)

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Good Morning Chosen, Called By Name, Redeemed, Very Loved Child of God! Amen! Focus on that in prayer and action today. TWFYT uses our Eph. 2:10 verse as they ask a question we should all frequently ask ourselves: "Are you doing what you're supposed to do?" Who are you processing and working on this with? Eph. 2:10 reminds us that We are God's masterpieces. He created us for His purposes with great potential. When we come to Christ as our Lord and Savior, this all becomes available and activated. Eph. 2:10 says, We are God's masterpieces made new in Christ. So we get to step into our new nature and receive the gift of Holy Spirit in us and His gifts and empowerment tp do what? According to Eph. 2:10, to do all we are created to do. I love to meditate on this, God's easy yoke for me, you and all who will come to Jesus as Lord and Savior. Eph. 2:10 sort of sums up the Good News we have to bring to others. Jesus loves you, died for you and made a way for you to be saved from sin, made new and fulfill your purposes here on earth in preparation for eternity with Him in heaven. (Reread that...what's God saying to you today?) Who needs to hear that today? We are the people of Good News, saved by grace and sent to transform the world, one soul at a time. We all have custom made parts in His Good News Delivery Company. So as TWFYT asks, "Are you doing what you're supposed to do?" How can we help each other to grow in this and our potential. Really pray into this and ask God for some partners on this journey.

Focus on that today as you turn off the noise, focus on things above and follow Jesus to His best for you! He indeed does have great plans for you and us for a future and hope! PTL! We are custom made for such a time as this. God's in control and has a plan just for you and for you and us together as His Body. PTL! Sarah Young reminds us to keep our focus right as we dwell in God's presence and receive His directions, encouragement and empowerment to follow well. And the Upper Room reminds us to keep asking for help along the way as we stay focused on Jesus and His plans. Amen. God really loves you and made you to worship Him as you go live and love like Jesus. He does have a future and hope for you and us together to discover and explore and work at living well for His glory. I'm praying for you and us to flourish as we dwell in His love and peace and go love like Him. Amen! Let us be instruments of Good News bringing revival to one soul at a time. Come Lord! Have Your way with us and use us well. Lead us to co-laborers. And move us to fulfill our potential for Your glory. Thanks Lord! Amen

TWFYT:

SY:

UR: A Beautiful Reminder

My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. - Psalm 121:2 (NIV)

As I rounded a corner on the parkway, I was dazzled by the wonderful sight of glistening snow on the Brindabella Mountains. It was a freezing-cold, wintry day in Canberra as I drove to my choir rehearsal. This was to be the last practice before our concert in a week’s time. As the choir’s events manager, I had many worries and much to accomplish for the rehearsal and concert.

With the mountains in view before me, I thought of Psalm 121: “I lift up my eyes to the mountains — where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” This beautiful scene was a timely reminder to me of God’s presence in my life. It prompted me to pass my concerns over to God in prayer, and as I continued my journey I felt a sense of peace and thankfulness for God’s loving-kindness and care. God is near and ready to help if only we ask.

Today's Prayer

Dear God, thank you for creating a beautiful world that reminds us of your love and care for us. Thank you for hearing our prayers when we bring our worries to you. Amen.

Good Morning Thankful, Forgiven, Made New, Faithful Followers of Jesus! Thank God that's you! And us as His Body! PTL!

Thank God I'm Forgiven Friday! PTL! This is the month of Thanksgiving, feasting, family, friends and fellowship. But above all I am thankful for God's patient, forgiven, eternal love! Yes PTL! What are you thankful about today? What praises are you lifting? TGIF is a great starting point for today and this month!

Max Lucado has a daily calendar that starts with the letter "A" and he works through the alphabet. I am thankful for Apples. I am thankful for blessings. And so on. Maybe Nov. would be a great month to try that exercise daily?

Today's devotionals flow through several teachings that speak into or point to reasons to be thankful. Check them out below. I'm often encouraging--well pleading--with you to turn off the noise and focus on God. Election season is a great time to turn of the TV, radio, and computer and to refocus on God with thanksgiving and praise as the starting point. Counting our blessings is a great way to redirect your thinking. Try it today. I am thankful for Christ, Donuts Day, Earnestness, Friends, God!!!

Let's start our thanksgiving with The Word for You Today's reminder that God cares about you. AMEN and PTL! You are His, made in His image, made new in Christ to do all He has planned for you! PTL! And He helps you because He loves and cares for you. Even in the darkest hours, He is there weeping with you and wanting to embrace you with His love. Open your arms to receive His love and raise them in praise today. Sarah Young reminds us to keep focused on God's presence and to plow through the distractions. (Turn off the noise!) He knows your heart and desire to honor Him and He knows your circumstances. He is with you always. Sit at His feet and allow Him to love on you. Joyce Meyers reminds us that thanksgiving isn't for a day or month but a constant state for God's chosen people (us). Give thanks always with a grateful heart. The Upper Room reminds us to keep persevering in faith and that others are watching. Are they seeing true faith overflowing with love and thankfulness no matter what we are facing? They can as we grow in worship, thanksgiving and faith. Choose joy by turning off the noise and lift eyes and hearts in praise. Our Daily Bread reminds us that time marches on and asks how you can make the most of the time you have left? They use Eph. 5's, which we just studied, reminder to always give thanks and the truth that singing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs helps us to redirect. Sing when you don't feel like you can and that will help you redirect with a thankful and worshipful heart. Make up your own psalm or even lament and lift it from a heart trusting God to Him. Drown out the noise as you make a joyful noise! And Charles Stanley wraps up our devotionals with the reminder that we have resurrection power in us. Be strong, courageous and and overcome by the power of Christ in you. Amen!

Refocus with this praise song: Give Thanks to God https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRVmqQw7hXU

and this: Count Your Blessings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uz0cjGr2h4k

So the reminder to rejoice--always stands out at the beginning of this month that ends with a Thanksgiving feast and family, faith and fun. Yes rejoice always! Again I say rejoice! Lift you hands in praise as you drown out the noise and drive Satan away by singing some praise! For God so Loved Y-O-U that He made a way and is with you always--yes rejoice! Release the junk and turn off the noise as you begin to count your many blessings! Amen! I'm praising for and praying for you and lifting praise to GOD! There's no way to count all the blessings! Amen! I'm thankful for Jesus, Karen, Love in me, Milkshakes...

TWFYT:

SY

JM

UR: The Cloud of Witnesses

Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us . . . run with perseverance the race that is set before us. - Hebrews 12:1 (NRSVUE)

Recently my husband and I attended my great-nephew’s graduation from a military academy. I like to walk early in the morning and, not knowing the area, decided to walk the halls of the historic campus hotel for exercise. On the walls of each floor were pictures of famous academy graduates dating back to the early 1800s — generals, astronauts, senators and governors, and prominent figures in public service.

Had I been a student at the academy, these pictures would have inspired me to become like these famous graduates. Instead, I thought of today’s verse from Hebrews and began to imagine pictures of biblical figures and photos of family and friends who have encouraged me in my faith. I thought particularly of my dad, who took such good care of his aging parents, telling me to care for the elderly. And of my mom, who worked to help people overcome addictions, encouraging me to have compassion. Their lives were a gift to me, and as I walked those halls thinking of them, I wanted to live my life in a way that would be a gift to others coming behind me. Knowing I am supported by the saints through the ages and in my own family gives me strength and courage to run with perseverance even in the face of discouragement.

Today's Prayer

Dear Father, thank you for the people who encourage us in our faith. Help us to be a source of encouragement for others. Amen.

ODB:

CS

Dis and Dat:

Sat. is Clothing Closet from 10-1

Don't forget to turn the clocks back on Sat. so you are not late for worship at 10. We will be studying 2 Thessalonians the next three weeks beginning with chapter one this week. (What's God saying to you?) 

Sun. We collect for Everlasting Life Ministries

Many could use our prayers today. Reach out love on and pray for someone today! Karen's mom has been admitted to the hospital overnight for vertigo and possible other issues. Please keep Kay in prayer. Thanks

Please continue to pray for our elections and our nation. Check out Harvest Prayers blog below praying about the hindrances and prejudices against God's Church and her people. Vote informed. This is not a popularity contest like high school student council elections. There are dire consequences coming for Christians, the unborn, elderly and our safety and peace depending on the outcome of the elections. Which candidates and party will honor God and bless our nation? Vote for them!

The Blog begins below this prayer post

Harvest Prayer:

October 31 - DAY 35 OF 40 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR OUR NATION  Praying For The Protection Of Religious Liberty “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17 NIV).   Religious liberty is enshrined in the text of our Constitution and numerous federal statutes. It encompasses the right of all Americans to exercise their religion freely, without being coerced to join an established church or to satisfy a religious test as a qualification for public office.   The First Amendment to the United States Constitution begins, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ...” Religious freedom prevents the cultural majority from using the power of the state to impose their beliefs on others. This protects everyone—religious and nonreligious alike—from the government becoming so powerful that it can tell people what to think and how to act. Conscience has been  considered the individual’s most sacred right. A government that intrudes on conscience will not hesitate to intrude on our other freedoms.    Additionally, forcing individuals and faith-based organizations to choose between living out their religious beliefs or serving their neighbors actually harms our communities. An estimated 350,000 religious congregations operate schools, pregnancy resource centers, soup kitchens, drug addiction programs, homeless shelters, and adoption agencies. These efforts serve 70 million Americans each year, and the value of their services is estimated at over a trillion dollars annually. Ultimately, everyone benefits from religious freedom.   It covers all people equally—Christians, Jews, Muslims, agnostics, and atheists. Religious freedom preserves America’s diversity, where people of different faiths, worldviews, and beliefs can peacefully live together without fear of punishment from the government. --Excerpts from the Heritage Foundation    Lord, You desire Your people to live in freedom and peace. Yet, because Your great love is not the current language of our nation, many people are being unjustly silenced, manipulated, and damaged because of their religious beliefs. Awaken Your people and give us strength to live powerfully and shine brightly for righteousness! May those who live apart from You have their eyes opened to see the unjustness being perpetrated on those who are trying to love and do good for the sake of others. May the wrongs perpetrated against them be exposed and made right. Prayer Points Ask God to reveal and reverse the unjust acts taking place against Christians as well as those from other religions who are trying to serve those who are in need. Pray for businesspeople who are being punished for placing You first instead of bowing to the agenda of those who are trying to damage our nation. Pray for families who want to do foster care or adopt, but are being turned away simply because they love and honor You in their homes. Ask God to strengthen His Church to stand up against injustice perpetrated against Christians in this nation. To view our prayer leader video or for more resources visit www.40DaysUSA.com. Connection (Devotions for Everyday Life) © 2024 is a free devotional published daily by Harvest Prayer Ministries. Subscribe here. Connection Prayer Devotions Sign Up

Good Morning Listening, Guided, Following Bringers of Light! Tonight is a night where evil and darkness are celebrated. Put on that armor in prayer and stand firm in Christ to Light up the World around you. We did that last Friday. May we continue to be the Light in the darkness and Love in this hate-filled world. May we bring unity back to this nation through prayer and action. Amen! As we still ourselves at Jesus feet, listen and follow Him, He will transform us more into His image and lead us to transform the world one soul at a time. What's your mission? Be the Light and GO! Love like Jesus. Amen! Check out our devotionals below threading through these thoughts. God is speaking to your heart! Be still and know that He is God and follow Him prepared today.

Last night we encountered the Chosen's version of several things like going the extra mile for others and slowing down, Martha and sit at Jesus' feet like Mary. I used to be just like Martha: busy working for the Kingdom and so busy trying to earn God's favor and be a blessing that I was missing the most important thing--dwelling in Jesus' presence throughout the day. Where's your focus? Why are you doing what you are doing? Is it Jesus' best? What good and better things do you need to release to focus on Jesus and His best things? Who might help you process that? Donald, Donald, Donald...sit at my feet and put on my easy yoke and follow me at my pace to your best. Amen! Yes help us Lord! 

Choose to sit at Jesus' feet, feast on His Word and receive His directions before stepping out into this day to be the Light and live and love like Jesus. He does have great plans just for you! Rejoice and know His shalom as you seek first the Kingdom and focus on Jesus. Amen! I already prayed for you and us to turn off the noise, be still and focused and prepared to follow well. Now Go! Love like Jesus today and look for the one He has prepared for you to pull from the fires of Hell. We are the Light! Hallelujah!

Karen's Praise Song for the Day: Someone Prayed (is that you?) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-0QXi7cLwI

Sarah Young:

TWFYT

UR: Guiding Signs

[God] guided them with the cloud by day and with light from the fire all night. - Psalm 78:14 (NIV)

I like to start my day with a run to clear my mind and to feel refreshed and energized. While I was on a recent early-morning run, I was reminded of God’s great mercy and protection. As I ran, I happened to glance up at the sky and noticed one particular cloud that seemed to be leading me on. It reminded me of the story of God’s using a cloud to lead the Israelites on their journey toward the Promised Land.

I pondered the words from Psalm 78:14 as I finished my run. I believe God reveals to us each day the ways we should go — the ways that are best for us. But are we willing to accept God’s leading? The cloud seemingly led me that morning, and I believe God placed it in the sky specifically for me so that I could recall the goodness and grace that God has given me. Such recollections reassure us that God really is providing direction in our lives.

Today's Prayer

Lead us this day, Father, to the place where you need us to go. Help us to experience you in new ways. We thank you for your direction in our lives. Amen.

ODB:

Joyce Meyer:

Charles Stanly

Good Morning Faithful Remnant! Please may we be Your faithful remnant who are blessed, led, protected, and used for Your glory! Come Lord! Fill us. Cover us! Provide for us! Lead us! Use us well. Thank You! We need you! Cleanse and purify us to serve and prepare us for Your service and to always stand firm in Christ and on Your Word! Thank You! Revive our land and oversee our elections. Raise up Your leader for Your purposes. Bind up any cheating and lead to fair elections. Come Lord! Your Kingdom come and will be done in, through and around us. Thank You. May Christ and Your good ways be high and lifted up and a beacon of hope. Come! Bring Your Living Water that satisfies and water our land too. Lord, we cast all our anxiety on You. Thank You. Bring Shalom, healing and hope alive today. Amen! We pronounce that we are your faithful and true remnant. We are Yours! Thank You for salvation, new life and for hearing our prayers! Uphold us in Your strong right hand. You are our strong tower and the Rock on which we stand and build. Heal our land Lord! Come! Amen.

Hmmm, guess I awoke troubled in heart and anxious about the elections, the drought, the state of Israel and this nation and our church. BUT GOD! I prayed and believe He will hear and answer according to His will and perfect timing. I trust Him and His plans as I cast all my anxiety to Him. I know I am His and have a place being prepared for me in heaven. I have faith but also pray for forgiveness for my unbelief and help to stay focused on Him. Jesus says, come to me all you weary and I will give you rest. Amen! Many of us have some many things to be anxious and worried about. BUT GOD! Lean on Him and some friends to travel your journey well. We all are unique, yet one and we need God and each other. May we unite in prayer, encouragement, help and faithfulness to God and His plans. Help us Lord! May we not lean on our own understanding but trust God in all things and remain on His path always. He does have great, custom made plans for custom made you for such a time as this. Be still and know and choose faith and joy always!

Check out Harvest blog below about praying for Israel. Move through the devotionals below in prayer and journal what God is whispering to your heart. Pray into that and ask some friends to pray and journey with you. God has really been speaking to my heart and bringing insight and peace as I release the burdens and troubles to Him. He's bringing the peace that comes from knowing He is God with a plan and it's perfect. I know He does have good plans for me and you and us together as we remain His faithful remnant following our Good Shepherd to His perfect plans. God is good all the time! Amen! And He is in us, with us, going before us, walking beside us and covering us as He directs our steps to His best. Amen! And shalom! He is with you always and always working all things together for good. Remain faithful and watch what He is about to do! Then join Him and know joy and peace beyond understanding. Amen!

Sarah Young:

Upper Room: New Every Morning

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. - Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)

I can relate to the writer of Lamentations. Some mornings I wake up to the worry of another difficult day. When I remember my afflictions, my heart sinks and I find myself teetering on the edge of another bout of depression.

However, Lamentations presents a turning point that keeps me from deep hopelessness. When I recall what God has done in the past, I am humbly reminded that God will also sort things out for me. I have faced many tough situations where I could see no way out, but each time God showed me mercy, faithfulness, and a way forward.

God has made me a witness of the promise that through God’s mercies I am not consumed. I am still standing, made strong by the grace of God. I know I can hope in God’s unfailing compassion because it is new every morning.

Today's Prayer

Faithful God, thank you for your compassion and mercy. Give us strength when we are weary, and remind us of your constant love. Amen.

Our Daily Bread:

 Charles Stanley:

The Word for You Today:

 Harvest Prayer for Israel

October 30 - DAY 34 OF 40 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR OUR NATION  Praying For The Peace And Protection Of Israel “Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep” (Psalm 121:4 NIV).   “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels. or the sake of my family and friends, I will say, “Peace be within you. For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your prosperity” (Psalm 122:6-9).   Author and American-Israeli strategist, Joel Rosenberg, has written a commentary on the current situation in which we find ourselves in the world: “The significance of this moment in history cannot be overstated. But the big question is this: Are Israelis just going through a bad patch and our fortunes will brighten again soon, or are we beginning to see Bible prophecies unfold in which the entire world turns against Israel and Jewish people in the ‘last days’?   The Bible indicates that all of the leaders of the world will essentially get drunk on the notion that Israel – Jerusalem – is the problem the world must solve. Yet, God also makes it clear that all the nations that turn against Israel will themselves face Divine Judgment and be ‘severely injured.’   Have we arrived at the prophetic point in history in which the entire world is turning against Israel and the Jewish people? No, not yet – but that’s definitely where we are trending. And it certainly appears that the chess pieces are being arranged on the board for such a war. The dictator of Russia is building alliances with the leaders of Iran, Turkey, and Sudan, to name just a few. The nations of the world are increasingly turning against Israel and the Jewish people. Even the leaders of Israel’s most trustworthy ally – the United States of America – are abandoning Israel.   In light of all that is happening spiritually and geopolitically in the world today, my question is this: What will the Church do?”   God of Israel, Your Word has prophetically announced things that are to come regarding Israel and the rest of the world. Help us to be awake and alert amid world events we have never experienced before. Raise up Your Church to stand strong in this moment and align ourselves with Your plans and purposes for Israel. Help us to be characterized by great love and compassion and to be known as houses of prayer for all nations (Isaiah 56:7, Mark 11:17). May the Church shine like a beacon for Your name in this moment. Prayer Points Ask God to grant the people of Jerusalem, including Jews, Christians, and Muslims, the wisdom and patience to build a safe city where all can live in peace and freedom. Ask God to bless Israel, shield it with love, send light and truth to Israel’s leaders, and strengthen the hands of those who defend the land. Ask God to protect Israel’s cities and borders, and to empower its leaders with wisdom and strength. Ask Him to display His glory as He defends Israel. Ask God to bring truth into our nation’s discourse, and that evil will be revealed for what it truly is. Ask Him to uncover blinded eyes! Ask God to cause our government to be unified behind Israel and to defend the Jews in our nation and all over the earth unequivocally! To view our prayer leader video or for more resources visit www.40DaysUSA.com. Connection (Devotions for Everyday Life) © 2024 is a free devotional published daily by Harvest Prayer Ministries. Subscribe here.

Good Morning Resting in the Lord, Dynamic Movers and Shakers! As we rest in, dwell in, abide in God's presence daily during our set aside quiet times, He informs our prayers and steps for each day. As we follow Him we are moving towards becoming a dynamic movement of revivalists and disciple makers. As we pray throughout the day we shake the kingdom of darkness, tear down strongholds and release captives. PTL and Amen! Because we are earnest in our prayer and quiet times, God moves and prepares and uses us. How cool is that. I think one of the greatest things about spending time in His presence in conversation and prayer is the sense or feeling of peace that comes from knowing I am loved and cared for no matter what I am facing and that those times do indeed inform my steps and choices and have a bearing throughout the day as I step out prepared and attentive. We get into the healthy rhythm of working from resting in Him. We become so familiar with His voice and actions that we more easily see Him at work throughout each day and are prepared to join Him in His plans to expand His Kingdom. We are movers and shakers in the Lord! Another cool aspect about time with God is that all are invited and created to spend time in fellowship with Him and that is not affected by age or circumstances. He wants to hang with us and is blessed when we want to and then blesses us for doing it. We all have a part to play in His Good News Delivery Company and for many of us that part is to pray--constantly and powerfully in Christ. One more thing I love about my time with God is that He seems to somehow redeem the time spent with Him. I often start in the wee hours of the morning as He stirs me out of bed and invites me to come chat. Somehow He refreshes, prepares and redeems that time as He sends me out fired up and ready. It's pretty cool. And I'm finding that sometimes, He allows naps after my extended time with Him. (I hope that's the case today!) God is Love and loves hanging with us and showering His love over us and filling us with much love to share as He sends us prepared and ready to live and love more like Jesus! Amen!

Today my devotionals flow through and led to this thinking. Check them out and spend some time with our Father this morning! He does have some great things for you today that begin and are empowered through a set aside dedicated time with Him and as you dwell in His presence and pray throughout each day. Turn off the noise and tune in to His presence. It's awesome! Be still and know and be prepared to go! I have already prayed for you to have an awesome encounter with our Living God and to go out prepared and ready for what He has for you, mover and shaker!

Sarah Young:

ODB:

TWFYT:

Chuck Swindoll:

The UR: Refreshing Moments

They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion. - Psalm 84:7 (NIV)

After dropping my kids off at school and daycare one morning, my minivan started smoking. Thankfully, I made it safely to work, but I fretted about what might be wrong with the minivan. Would it be safe enough to pick up my kids in after school? I was going through a difficult time in my life — divorce, financial challenges, health issues, the basement flooding — and this just felt like another thing spiraling out of my control. As I sat there feeling incredibly hopeless, a friend called to check on me. I told her about my car, and she prayed with me.

In the end, I was able to pick up my kids and drive home that day, but the minivan wasn’t repairable. Even so, knowing I had a friend walking with me and praying with me was like coming upon a refreshing pool during a long, difficult journey.

Similarly, the people in Psalm 84 found springs and pools of rain when they passed through the Valley of Baka. God provided refreshing moments for them along the way to sustain them on the journey. God shows up for us in creative and timely ways through people, words, nature, and in other ways we could not even imagine.

Today's Prayer

Dear God, help us to notice and experience the refreshing pools of strength you provide as you walk with us through difficult circumstances. Amen.

Charles Stanley    ]

5 Prayer Points from 2 Chronicles 7:14 from harvest prayer:

This prayer guide is easily adaptable for individuals, small groups or entire churches focused on confession, repentance and the forgiveness of God:

Read 2 Chronicles 7:14 out loud: “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

Spend some time in prayer based on this passage:

• Father, we are Your people, called by Your name, and we will humble ourselves before You! Perhaps consider kneeling or lying prostrate on the floor before God. These are two very biblical postures of humility. Spend time repenting of your lack of humility before Him individually, as a church, and as a citizen of our nation.

• Lord Jesus, we are Your people, called by Your name, and we will pray. Take some time to confess prayerlessness and times when prayer has been your “last resort” instead of your first response. Confess the prayerlessness of the church you attend if corporate prayer has not been a consistent practice for your community of believers. Focus time upon the prayerlessness of the Church in our nation and confess the sins that have happened nationally on our watch.

• Holy Spirit, we are Your people, called by Your name, and we will seek Your face. Confess times when you have sought after other things for your wisdom and counsel before the Lord, and/or when you have placed your trust in people or government or ________. The Holy Spirit was given as a gift to teach us, comfort us and to intercede for us. If you have neglected or ignored the ministry of the Spirit by not seeking the face of God, take time to experience godly sorrow in whatever form that takes for you.

• Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we are Your people called by Your name. Right now we repent of these sins we have confessed before You: lack of humility, prayerlessness, and seeking other things, idols or gods before seeking Your face. We turn from our wicked ways and ask for Your forgiveness. We mean to turn towards You now, giving You our full attention. We will walk in humility. We will give ourselves to prayer. We will seek Your face and forsake lesser things in which we have placed our dependence.

• Lord God Almighty, Maker of Heaven and Earth, we give You thanks for listening to our prayers…for hearing us from heaven! We thank you for the forgiveness that is now ours through Christ Jesus. And in faith, we trust in Your ability and stand upon Your promise to heal our land.

© Harvest Prayer Ministries

Harvest blog:

Worship and Brunch today! Come worship, fellowship and feast on His Word and with a great 2 Peas in A Pod brunch! It's a day to be fed physically and spiritually as our Bishop brings the Word this morning. Come! Join us! brings some friends!

Good Morning Purposeful, Waiting on the Lord, Good News Delivery Co! We are created in God's image for His custom made purposes. We matter and have purpose! As we seek first His Kingdom, He will lead us to His perfect plans in His perfect timing. Amen! And so we wait on Him in prayer and yoke to Jesus as we travel at His pace. Amen! We are gathered and sent to bring His Love and Good News alive. We are His, loved, saved, forgiven, prepared and sent to transform the world as we live and love more and more like Jesus who is with us always! What joy as we work on becoming who we are created to be and doing the things we are created to do more and more. That is Jesus' easy yoke and a true joy that produces much good fruit! We are His ambassadors of grace, mercy and love and as we step more fully into that we will become a dynamic movement of God that brings revival and changes the world! Amen!

Today, I expect the Bishop to teach us more about how to do this well. I know God is moving St. Matts. in the same direction as the Bishop is being led to lead us. We are on our way to becoming a dynamic movement of God that loves Him well and reaches excitedly to those who He is drawing from the fires of Hell. Friday night we made some new connection points to neighbors. Pray that God works in some of them and draws them and waters and fertilizes the seeds we planted. Pray we begin some new relationships with young families and 30-50 year olds and lead them to God and Jesus' way. Pray for us to become a house of prayer for the nations and a disciple making hub for the area. He does have great plans for you and us and He is sending us into the harvest field. Praise Him for the harvest that is coming and pray He raises up harvest workers from this harvest. Pray that we would live and love more and more like Jesus everyday and teach others how to live our His way well as we live it out better. Yes, He is bringing alive some great things and I am so excited to see where He leads us! Come, Jesus Come! Lead us to Your perfect plans in Your perfect timing. Amen!

It's pretty cool how God has threaded this word through our devotionals for today. Check them out below and prepare your hearts to receive His instructions and your feet to follow Jesus well. God has some amazing things in store for you and us that will flow from our prayers, time with God and willingness to earnestly follow Jesus. PTL! and Amen! We begin, as God has ordered our devos, with The Word for You Today and their teaching about God's custom made plans just for you first. Meditate on this and talk to God about it. What's He leading you to do? Who are your partners? Sarah Young reminds us about the importance of keeping our focus on God and allowing Him to direct our steps for what's now and what's next. She reminds us to travel at the speed of Jesus as we plow with Him. Charles Stanley reminds us and continues her train of thought with the call to expectant waiting. God is speaking, teaching, preparing and wants us to move with Him. That is really the only way to be productive for His Kingdom that produces good fruit. Pray for our Vision Team that will be meeting in two weeks to seek God, discern His plans and to steward well as we sow lavishly into all He has for us and begin the budgeting process for God's plans for us for next year.. May we pursue Him as He pursues us and follow as He leads, well. Amen! Today we gather, like the Acts 2:42 church to study His Word, worship, fellowship, eat together and pray. I love how God keeps leading us to and through our table ministries! We need each other and the Upper Room discusses and reminds that we are made for community and unity. We are not to be Lone Rangers. We practice some of this every week as we gather on Wednesdays to eat, fellowship, study and pray. And guess what? God keeps sending some new people to taste and see that Jesus is good and we are genuine in our love and obedience to Him and His ways. May we continue these ministries well. Pray for God to expand them to new opportunities to connect to neighbors and connect them to Him. Pray for me to mentor and train some leaders to lead others to God's plans too. And this flows to Our Daily Bread teaching about being born again. Who do you know that needs Jesus' love, forgiveness and new life in Christ? What will you do about that? Who are your partners? Who needs to hear the stories of God's faithfulness to you and us and how He is using us to transform the world with his love and care one soul at a time?

Really pray into these things. Allow these teachings and what the Bishop will share today from 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 (below) to inform your prayers and actions. Cry out for revival and for God to use you to do your part in His Good News Delivery Co. He really does have some custom, age and circumstance appropriate things for you to do. Let us commit to be about His business together in His ways and spur each other on in prayer and actions as God leads. Revival is coming! This is the year of the Lord's favor and He wants us to step into that and our anointing! Come, et us seek and follow well together for His glory alone. Amen! We are His Purposeful, Waiting on the Lord, Good News Delivery Co! PTL! and Amen!

2 Corinthians 5:11-21

We Are God’s Ambassadors

¹¹ Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too. ¹² Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us, so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart. ¹³ If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit. ¹⁴ Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life. ¹⁵ He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.

¹⁶ So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! ¹⁷ This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

¹⁸ And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. ¹⁹ For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. ²⁰ So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” ²¹ For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin so that we could be made right with God through Christ.

TWFYT:

SY:

CS:

UR: Community of Faith

Moses’ father-in-law replied, “What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone.” - Exodus 18:17-18 (NIV)

Soon after the Israelites’ deliverance, Jethro — Moses’ father-in-law — came to visit and observed Moses in his daily responsibility of judging disputes between the people. Jethro told Moses that continuing to do all the work alone would be too much. He advised Moses to set wise men as leaders over groups of people. In following this advice, Moses relied on his community for help, thus preventing his own burnout.

God designed us to need community. It can be uncomfortable and hard to accept that we need others, especially when we realize that our church is made up of imperfect people. But when we downplay the collective nature of our faith, we do ourselves a disservice.

Wonderful things can happen when we rely on one another: our bonds of relationship are strengthened, and we give others the opportunity to show God’s love to us. In big and small moments, let’s commit to loving those around us and letting others love us in return. In doing so, we can be a part of ushering in God’s kingdom.

Today's Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for the community of believers. Help us to reach out to others who may need our love, and help us to accept love in return. Amen.

ODB: