On December 8th in just about two weeks, PB peoples will be celebrating Eid al-Adha. Are you familiar with this Islamic holiday? Below is information describing the holiday. The first section "The Feast of Sacrifice" is informative and will help you understand what PB peoples will be celebrating in two weeks. The second section "Sound Familiar?" focuses on what Muslims believe about this holiday.
Before you begin reading the two sections below, here the prayer requests for these next few weeks. As you read below, perhaps the information will give you insight as to what PB peoples and other Muslims around the world believe.
* Please pray for salvation for the PB peoples.
*Please pray that during this holiday God would reveal His truth to PB peoples, that Jesus was and is the perfect sacrifice for their sins. Pray that God would remove the blindfold from their hearts and souls.
* Pray that the PB team and national partners would share during this time that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ ALONE.
* Pray that teaching of Truth would go forth from the PB team and national partners.
* Please pray that God would open eyes, ears, hearts, and souls of the PB peoples toward Him and His Truth. May today be the day of salvation for the PB people!
The Feast of Sacrifice
(this information taken from http://www.infoplease.com/spot/islamicholidays.html)
Eid al-Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice, commemorates the prophet Abraham's willingness to obey Allah by sacrificing his son Ishmael. According to the Qu'ran, just before Abraham sacrificed his son, Allah replaced Ishmael with a ram, thus sparing his life.
One of the two most important Islamic festivals, Eid al-Adha begins on the 10 day of Dhu'l-Hijja, the last month of the Islamic calendar. Lasting for three days, it occurs at the conclusion of the annual Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca. Muslims all over the world celebrate, not simply those undertaking the hajj, which for most Muslims is a once-a-lifetime occurrence.
The festival is celebrated by sacrificing a lamb or other animal and distributing the meat to relatives, friends, and the poor. The sacrifice symbolizes obedience to Allah and its distribution to others is an expression of generosity, one of the five pillars of Islam.
Sound Familiar?
(the following information taken from islam.about.com/od/holidays/f/holidays.htm)
Why do Muslims sacrifice an animal on this day?
During the celebration of Eid al-Adha, Muslims commemorate and remember Abraham's trials, by themselves slaughtering an animal such as a sheep, camel, or goat. This action is very often misunderstood by those outside the faith.
Allah has given us power over animals and allowed us to eat meat, but only if we pronounce His name at the solemn act of taking life. Muslims slaughter animals in the same way throughout the year. By saying the name of Allah at the time of slaughter, we are reminded that life is sacred.
The meat from the sacrifice of Eid al-Adha is mostly given away to others. One-third is eaten by immediate family and relatives, one-third is given away to friends, and one-third is donated to the poor. The act symbolizes our willingness to give up things that are of benefit to us or close to our hearts, in order to follow Allah's commands. It also symbolizes our willingness to give up some of our own bounties, in order to strengthen ties of friendship and help those who are in need. We recognize that all blessings come from Allah, and we should open our hearts and share with others.
It is very important to understand that the sacrifice itself, as practiced by Muslims, has nothing to do with atoning for our sins or using the blood to wash ourselves from sin. This is a misunderstanding by those of previous generations: "It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah; it is your piety that reaches Him." (Qur'an 22:37)
The symbolism is in the attitude - a willingness to make sacrifices in our lives in order to stay on the Straight Path. Each of us makes small sacrifices, giving up things that are fun or important to us. A true Muslim, one who submits his or herself completely to the Lord, is willing to follow Allah's commands completely and obediently. It is this strength of heart, purity in faith, and willing obedience that our Lord desires from us.
(end of article)
The confusion that people can please God by sacrificing is a common issue amongst our PB people. And similar to what the writer of Hebrews said to Jewish people after the new covenant in Christ. See Hebrews 9 below.
Hebrews 9:11-14
"But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) He entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of His own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. For if the sprinkling of defiled persons with the blood of goats and bulls and with the ashes of a heifer sanctifies for the purification of the flesh, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God."
Friday, October 31, 2008
PR - Oct 31, 2008
Psalm 96
verses 1 - 5
Sing to the LORD a new song;
Sing to the LORD, all the earth.
Sing to the LORD, bless His name;
Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day.
Tell of His glory among the nations,
His wonderful deeds among all the peoples.
For great is the LORD and greatly to be praised;
He is to be feared above all gods.
For all the gods of the peoples are idols,
But the LORD made the heavens.
Update
(this may seem long, but please stay with it and read to the end)
Mr. Caman
In our last blog on October 15th, I wrote of a few situations where God is working, and praise the Lord for it! Keep praying. Men are meeting regularly with Mr. Caman, sharing the Gospel and studying the Bible with him. Please pray that God will open Mr. Caman's eyes, heart, and soul to receive the Good News of Jesus Christ and that Mr. Caman would become a follower of Jesus.
Mrs. Mobile
Such a sweet smile, pleasant countenance, and petite woman... words that can describe Mrs. Mobile. Yet such power is within her. Yes I said power. For God Almighty dwells within her because she believes that His Own Son Jesus died on the cross and rose again triumphantly and now sits on the throne in Heaven waiting till the day when God says to return for His children. It is not her power but God working through her that gives her strength.
"I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." Paul - Galatians 2:20
A new story has also occurred this week with Mrs. Mobile. A family was celebrating the wedding of their child. The family asked Mrs. Mobile to come pray at their house. And she did. Later the same family also asked a witch doctor to come bless the house in the same place where Mrs. Mobile had prayed. He also did. It is said that later, the witch doctor came out of the room angry that he had no power in the room and demanded to know who had been in the room previously. It was told him that a few days prior, Mrs. Mobile had been in the room and prayed over it.
"Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that He through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is the devil, and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives." Hebrews 2:14-15
and one more verse...
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." Paul - Ephesians 6:12
I believe Mrs. Mobile would be the first to admit that what is so special about her is the mighty work of God in her life. Because of her belief in a Mighty God and His Son Jesus Christ.
I know these accounts may seem foreign possibly even uncomfortable for some of us... perhaps some write it off as village people "that just don't know any better" but let me encourage and challenge you with Paul's words again "our struggle is not against flesh and blood..." This is real, everyday life... and Mrs. Mobile needs our prayers for the darkness she is encountering. May God receive all the glory and may MANY PB peoples too come to faith in Jesus Christ because of this faithful witness.
Psalm 96
verses 10-13
"Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;
Let the sea roar, and all it contains;
Let the field exult, and all that is in it.
Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy
Before the LORD, for He is coming,
For He is coming to judge the earth.
He will judge the world in righteousness
And the peoples in His faithfulness."
Lord God, please quickly and mightily come save the PB peoples...
verses 1 - 5
Sing to the LORD a new song;
Sing to the LORD, all the earth.
Sing to the LORD, bless His name;
Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day.
Tell of His glory among the nations,
His wonderful deeds among all the peoples.
For great is the LORD and greatly to be praised;
He is to be feared above all gods.
For all the gods of the peoples are idols,
But the LORD made the heavens.
Update
(this may seem long, but please stay with it and read to the end)
Mr. Caman
In our last blog on October 15th, I wrote of a few situations where God is working, and praise the Lord for it! Keep praying. Men are meeting regularly with Mr. Caman, sharing the Gospel and studying the Bible with him. Please pray that God will open Mr. Caman's eyes, heart, and soul to receive the Good News of Jesus Christ and that Mr. Caman would become a follower of Jesus.
Mrs. Mobile
Such a sweet smile, pleasant countenance, and petite woman... words that can describe Mrs. Mobile. Yet such power is within her. Yes I said power. For God Almighty dwells within her because she believes that His Own Son Jesus died on the cross and rose again triumphantly and now sits on the throne in Heaven waiting till the day when God says to return for His children. It is not her power but God working through her that gives her strength.
"I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." Paul - Galatians 2:20
A new story has also occurred this week with Mrs. Mobile. A family was celebrating the wedding of their child. The family asked Mrs. Mobile to come pray at their house. And she did. Later the same family also asked a witch doctor to come bless the house in the same place where Mrs. Mobile had prayed. He also did. It is said that later, the witch doctor came out of the room angry that he had no power in the room and demanded to know who had been in the room previously. It was told him that a few days prior, Mrs. Mobile had been in the room and prayed over it.
"Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that He through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is the devil, and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives." Hebrews 2:14-15
and one more verse...
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." Paul - Ephesians 6:12
I believe Mrs. Mobile would be the first to admit that what is so special about her is the mighty work of God in her life. Because of her belief in a Mighty God and His Son Jesus Christ.
I know these accounts may seem foreign possibly even uncomfortable for some of us... perhaps some write it off as village people "that just don't know any better" but let me encourage and challenge you with Paul's words again "our struggle is not against flesh and blood..." This is real, everyday life... and Mrs. Mobile needs our prayers for the darkness she is encountering. May God receive all the glory and may MANY PB peoples too come to faith in Jesus Christ because of this faithful witness.
Psalm 96
verses 10-13
"Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;
Let the sea roar, and all it contains;
Let the field exult, and all that is in it.
Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy
Before the LORD, for He is coming,
For He is coming to judge the earth.
He will judge the world in righteousness
And the peoples in His faithfulness."
Lord God, please quickly and mightily come save the PB peoples...
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
PR - Oct 15, 2008
Isaiah 43:25
"I, I am He who blots out your transgressions for my own sake and I will not remember your sins."
Two Accounts
We have asked you to pray for God to stir the hearts of the PB peoples, and friends He is working in hearts. Just in the last week alone I heard several reports of God giving dreams/visions, pricking hearts, and revealing Himself to some PB peoples. Below are just two of those accounts.
Join me in praying for these souls as I share some of their stories here with you:
* Ibu Mobile is a fairly new believer. In her conversion, her husband threatened her many different ways. I cannot begin to tell you the amazing details of the conversion of Ibu Mobile and her life since that time but please pray for her. Pray that God would ground her in Himself. She has shared the Gospel with her husband and very recently SEVERAL members of her family. Family members (whom she was warned by a friend that they may try to poison her because of her conversion) who have thought her crazy have been faced with the Gospel in a bold and clear manner given by Ibu Mobile. Oh praise God that she was faithful to share. These few details feel so insufficient for the difficulties, persecution, and trials Ibu Mobile has encountered. Please pray for her husband, who is quite a strong Islamic follower. Please pray that Pak Mobile would fall before Jesus, find forgiveness there, and find that his sins would be remembered no more (Is 43:25). Please pray for the many family members and community that has now heard a strong and bold presentation of the Gospel. Please join us in praying that HOUSEHOLDS and COMMUNITIES will come to faith in our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
* Another man named Pak Caman, has recently been searching for the "living God." Oh friends would you plead that God would remove the scales from his eyes, and that our Living God would reveal Himself to Pak Caman and call him His own. This man is searching for God yet also believes he had an encounter with God when he was five months old. Pak Caman was challenged with Scripture challenging this interaction with the spirit. Praise God for the men who have visited Pak Caman and have committed to visit him every Thursday night your time. Praise the Lord that these men sharing their faith are burdened for the lost that will perish if not but for God working in their lives. Please pray for Pak Caman, for the complex beliefs he holds that the Gospel Bearers will deal with and for his salvation. Please pray for Gospel Bearers as they will be meeting with Pak Caman on your Thursday night.
So close yet so far away....
God is changing much of our ministry here, the local church, and burdening hearts for the Gospel to go forth among the PB peoples. Truly exciting stuff. We have asked you to pray and we ourselves pray and continue to pray that God will start a church among the PB unreached people groups. At times it seems that a church will happen any day now and other times we scratch our heads and wonder WHEN it will happen. Would you go before the Father and ask for His mighty hand to work among the PB peoples? That we would get out of the Lord's way and that He would move in miraculous ways here in PB land.
Lastly I have recently heard a song by Chris Tomlin titled "God of this city". Many of you have probably already heard this but when hearing the song, how could I NOT think of the PB peoples and find such joy in crying out to God verses such as these below.
"You are the God of this city, the King of this people, You are the Lord of this nation..."
"Greater things have yet to come, and greater things are still to be done in this city. We believe, we believe in You God."
Will you pray that God would be God of this city, this people, this nation? And that greater things would be done among the PB peoples? Thanks to Chris Tomlin obviously he has been to PB land and sees the need for those "greater things" to be done here. :) (just kidding)
"I, I am He who blots out your transgressions for my own sake and I will not remember your sins."
Two Accounts
We have asked you to pray for God to stir the hearts of the PB peoples, and friends He is working in hearts. Just in the last week alone I heard several reports of God giving dreams/visions, pricking hearts, and revealing Himself to some PB peoples. Below are just two of those accounts.
Join me in praying for these souls as I share some of their stories here with you:
* Ibu Mobile is a fairly new believer. In her conversion, her husband threatened her many different ways. I cannot begin to tell you the amazing details of the conversion of Ibu Mobile and her life since that time but please pray for her. Pray that God would ground her in Himself. She has shared the Gospel with her husband and very recently SEVERAL members of her family. Family members (whom she was warned by a friend that they may try to poison her because of her conversion) who have thought her crazy have been faced with the Gospel in a bold and clear manner given by Ibu Mobile. Oh praise God that she was faithful to share. These few details feel so insufficient for the difficulties, persecution, and trials Ibu Mobile has encountered. Please pray for her husband, who is quite a strong Islamic follower. Please pray that Pak Mobile would fall before Jesus, find forgiveness there, and find that his sins would be remembered no more (Is 43:25). Please pray for the many family members and community that has now heard a strong and bold presentation of the Gospel. Please join us in praying that HOUSEHOLDS and COMMUNITIES will come to faith in our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
* Another man named Pak Caman, has recently been searching for the "living God." Oh friends would you plead that God would remove the scales from his eyes, and that our Living God would reveal Himself to Pak Caman and call him His own. This man is searching for God yet also believes he had an encounter with God when he was five months old. Pak Caman was challenged with Scripture challenging this interaction with the spirit. Praise God for the men who have visited Pak Caman and have committed to visit him every Thursday night your time. Praise the Lord that these men sharing their faith are burdened for the lost that will perish if not but for God working in their lives. Please pray for Pak Caman, for the complex beliefs he holds that the Gospel Bearers will deal with and for his salvation. Please pray for Gospel Bearers as they will be meeting with Pak Caman on your Thursday night.
So close yet so far away....
God is changing much of our ministry here, the local church, and burdening hearts for the Gospel to go forth among the PB peoples. Truly exciting stuff. We have asked you to pray and we ourselves pray and continue to pray that God will start a church among the PB unreached people groups. At times it seems that a church will happen any day now and other times we scratch our heads and wonder WHEN it will happen. Would you go before the Father and ask for His mighty hand to work among the PB peoples? That we would get out of the Lord's way and that He would move in miraculous ways here in PB land.
Lastly I have recently heard a song by Chris Tomlin titled "God of this city". Many of you have probably already heard this but when hearing the song, how could I NOT think of the PB peoples and find such joy in crying out to God verses such as these below.
"You are the God of this city, the King of this people, You are the Lord of this nation..."
"Greater things have yet to come, and greater things are still to be done in this city. We believe, we believe in You God."
Will you pray that God would be God of this city, this people, this nation? And that greater things would be done among the PB peoples? Thanks to Chris Tomlin obviously he has been to PB land and sees the need for those "greater things" to be done here. :) (just kidding)
Saturday, September 27, 2008
PR Sept 30, 08
The Night of Power and Not Lose focus
Night of Power
We are drawing to the end of the Muslim fasting month, Ramadan, and soon it will be the Night of Power for Muslims around the world. I would like to encourage you to Google "Night of Power" and see what you come up with.
This is how one Muslim described the "Night of Power":
The Night of Power or Destiny is an extremely important night for Muslims. It is the night in which our code of guidance, the Holy Quran, was revealed from the Lord of the Universe to Prophet Muhammad. The Quran was revealed in Ramadan (2:185), and traditionally Muslims celebrate the Night of Power on the 27th night of Ramadan.
God describes this night as better than a thousand months. During that night, the angels and the Spirit descend therein, by God’s leave, to carry out every command (97:1-5).
Because the Night of Power is such a special night, those Muslims (Submitters) who want to gain extra credit of righteousness spend the night by commemorating God the Almighty either in their privacy or in a mosque with other Muslims. There are also some Muslims who retreat to a mosque in the last ten days of Ramadan to take advantage of God’s blessings further and increase their faith of submission. (This information taken from http://www.submission.info/practices/ramadan/nightofdestiny.html)
If you have time to read another, there is an interesting article on "16 things you can do on the Night of Power" posted on http://www.soundvision.com/info/ramadan/10.16things.asp.
I am bringing these things up because to millions of Muslims around the world, the 27th night of Ramadan, they will be seeking Allah. Oh brothers and sisters will you pray that on that night specifically they will have an encounter with the ONE True God that is the Father, Son - Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit.
Is the Muslim fasting month even on your radar? Has it heightened your prayers to God for the millions of dying Muslims that as Revelation 20:15 says that "if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire"? Take some time now and pray for the PB peoples as they end their fasting month and go through the Night of Power.
Not Lose Focus
In past blogs we have asked you to pray for our PB team and national partners as there is turmoil among our work with Muslims and the local church. This has been a disheartening time to many of us, and unfortunatley the issues/problems are still not over. As these local church issues are on many of our national partners and PB team members minds, would you pray that the PB team including national partners not lose their focus on the main thing: Bringing glory to God in all things while making His Name known to the PB peoples. May the PB team keep the words of Paul (in 2 Corinthians 5:20-21) on our minds in our interactions with PB peoples "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you [PB peoples] on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." Pray that the PB team not lose focus, if anything pray that our hearts will stay in a continual broken state over the lost PB peoples. And pray that the PB peoples will be "the righteousness of God" in Christ and no longer slaves to the evil one!
Night of Power
We are drawing to the end of the Muslim fasting month, Ramadan, and soon it will be the Night of Power for Muslims around the world. I would like to encourage you to Google "Night of Power" and see what you come up with.
This is how one Muslim described the "Night of Power":
The Night of Power or Destiny is an extremely important night for Muslims. It is the night in which our code of guidance, the Holy Quran, was revealed from the Lord of the Universe to Prophet Muhammad. The Quran was revealed in Ramadan (2:185), and traditionally Muslims celebrate the Night of Power on the 27th night of Ramadan.
God describes this night as better than a thousand months. During that night, the angels and the Spirit descend therein, by God’s leave, to carry out every command (97:1-5).
Because the Night of Power is such a special night, those Muslims (Submitters) who want to gain extra credit of righteousness spend the night by commemorating God the Almighty either in their privacy or in a mosque with other Muslims. There are also some Muslims who retreat to a mosque in the last ten days of Ramadan to take advantage of God’s blessings further and increase their faith of submission. (This information taken from http://www.submission.info/practices/ramadan/nightofdestiny.html)
If you have time to read another, there is an interesting article on "16 things you can do on the Night of Power" posted on http://www.soundvision.com/info/ramadan/10.16things.asp.
I am bringing these things up because to millions of Muslims around the world, the 27th night of Ramadan, they will be seeking Allah. Oh brothers and sisters will you pray that on that night specifically they will have an encounter with the ONE True God that is the Father, Son - Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit.
Is the Muslim fasting month even on your radar? Has it heightened your prayers to God for the millions of dying Muslims that as Revelation 20:15 says that "if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire"? Take some time now and pray for the PB peoples as they end their fasting month and go through the Night of Power.
Not Lose Focus
In past blogs we have asked you to pray for our PB team and national partners as there is turmoil among our work with Muslims and the local church. This has been a disheartening time to many of us, and unfortunatley the issues/problems are still not over. As these local church issues are on many of our national partners and PB team members minds, would you pray that the PB team including national partners not lose their focus on the main thing: Bringing glory to God in all things while making His Name known to the PB peoples. May the PB team keep the words of Paul (in 2 Corinthians 5:20-21) on our minds in our interactions with PB peoples "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you [PB peoples] on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." Pray that the PB team not lose focus, if anything pray that our hearts will stay in a continual broken state over the lost PB peoples. And pray that the PB peoples will be "the righteousness of God" in Christ and no longer slaves to the evil one!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
PR - 01/09/08
Many thanks of prayers for the PB peoples and PB team, dear friends! Challenging AND exciting times are at hand. A great burden is upon many of us, as we are sensing need for more. More change, more prayers to be offered on behalf of the PB peoples, more wisdom from the Lord, more discipleship of national partners, more Gospel sowing going forth, more of everything. Basically... we need You Lord God to do a GREAT work which only YOU can do, here among the PB peoples.
We are at an exciting point in ministry. Oh it is difficult yes... we are facing challenges from within the body of believers and from nonbelievers that surround us.
We have a great need right now for God's mighty work in our lives, those of the PB peoples and the PB team.
Here are a few ways you can be praying for the PB peoples now...
1.) Fasting month: It is during this season that Muslims fast from sun up to sun down each day for an entire month. Often times it is said that during this time, Muslims will have dreams and visions. Also, it is during this time that Muslims feel like that this fasting time helps their "good works" purify them by cleansing them of sins they have committed that year and so... outweighing their evil deeds. Some if not many of the PB peoples will be participating in this fast. Please pray that God would reveal to them that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Please pray that God would give them dreams and visions of Jesus Christ who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6).
2.) While visiting a neighboring city a few days ago, where one of our 13 peoples live, we saw several young people dancing and jumping around while others were gathered around watching. Observers said that the young people were having a party where the young people would interact with demons. Please pray for those young people who are searching for answers and power.
3.) Please pray for our national partners. Pray that God would give them a heart for the PB peoples. Pray that God would give them a hunger for the Word that God would grow them in wisdom and Truth.
May God bless you and may God bless the PB peoples!
Sunday, August 3, 2008
PR - 02/08/08
"But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere." 2 Corinthians 2:14
Dear brothers and sisters, as we go throughout our day, let us all pray that God will give us a heart for the nations. The nations that have come to us, live in our neighborhood, work in our offices, shop at the same grocery store, and those abroad. Let's ask the Father to keep on the forefront of our minds the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And may we be an aroma, a fragrance of God to all around us, especially to those of the PB people.
* Among our RuJohn People (and many of our other PB peoples), there is a strong belief in Animism ** www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animism - if you want to read a bit about Animism. Last week, a man named Mr. Goon was met by one of our teammates. Mr. Goon was going to a mountain where he was going to pray and take sacrifices to the spirits of the mountain, to protect his family. While Islam is the official religion of this area, animism has a VERY strong underlying hold on many of the PB peoples. Please pray for Mr. Goon that he would learn about, believe, and follow the Creator of all things, the One who knows everything, created everything, and is everything.
* In a Bible study that is held by some of our national partners, there are a few new attendees who are interested in the Gospel. Please pray for these souls as obviously God is working in their hearts, that they would have open hearts towards God, and that He would draw them into His kingdom.
* Please pray for the PB ministry, the farm, and our national partners. We know of "the schemes of the devil" (Eph 6:11, and also 2 Cor 2:11). We know that he is not happy with our ministry, and we are seeing some of his schemes being played out. These schemes are coming in the form of lies, verbal attacks, slander, and such. Pray that our national partners and all involved in our PB ministry, will seek to glorify God with our lives. "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matt 5:16). Also pray 1 Thess 5:15-17 that all of us involved in the PB ministry would take Paul's words to heart as he says "See that no one repays evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
And just as a reminder, pray for the salvation of the PB peoples who are locked in darkness. OH Lord God, truly may this day be the day of salvation of the 2 million + PB peoples.
Thank you for your prayers brothers and sisters.
Dear brothers and sisters, as we go throughout our day, let us all pray that God will give us a heart for the nations. The nations that have come to us, live in our neighborhood, work in our offices, shop at the same grocery store, and those abroad. Let's ask the Father to keep on the forefront of our minds the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And may we be an aroma, a fragrance of God to all around us, especially to those of the PB people.
* Among our RuJohn People (and many of our other PB peoples), there is a strong belief in Animism ** www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animism - if you want to read a bit about Animism. Last week, a man named Mr. Goon was met by one of our teammates. Mr. Goon was going to a mountain where he was going to pray and take sacrifices to the spirits of the mountain, to protect his family. While Islam is the official religion of this area, animism has a VERY strong underlying hold on many of the PB peoples. Please pray for Mr. Goon that he would learn about, believe, and follow the Creator of all things, the One who knows everything, created everything, and is everything.
* In a Bible study that is held by some of our national partners, there are a few new attendees who are interested in the Gospel. Please pray for these souls as obviously God is working in their hearts, that they would have open hearts towards God, and that He would draw them into His kingdom.
* Please pray for the PB ministry, the farm, and our national partners. We know of "the schemes of the devil" (Eph 6:11, and also 2 Cor 2:11). We know that he is not happy with our ministry, and we are seeing some of his schemes being played out. These schemes are coming in the form of lies, verbal attacks, slander, and such. Pray that our national partners and all involved in our PB ministry, will seek to glorify God with our lives. "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matt 5:16). Also pray 1 Thess 5:15-17 that all of us involved in the PB ministry would take Paul's words to heart as he says "See that no one repays evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
And just as a reminder, pray for the salvation of the PB peoples who are locked in darkness. OH Lord God, truly may this day be the day of salvation of the 2 million + PB peoples.
Thank you for your prayers brothers and sisters.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
PR - 17/07/08
"Salvation belongs to the Lord..." Psalm 3:8
Brothers and sisters, the PB team sends you greetings. Thank you for those of you who have emailed us recently and encouraged us with your words, your prayers, and support for the PB people.
Please continue to lift up the salvation of the PB people, asking the Lord to spread His Kingdom here among the PB people, that His Gospel would go forth clearly and boldly. "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thess 5:16-18)."
* A few days ago my family and I rode about 45 minutes away to see a section of where our PB people live. Their lives are plain. Their children run and play in the grass. Men and women gather on porches. Some women are sitting in the yards keeping birds, chickens, animals and what not from bothering the rice that their family is trying to dry out. Everything appears normal. Everything appears happy. But the heavy cloud remains in my mind... some of these have never heard the Gospel clearly, almost all of these are doomed for the pits of hell... but for the grace of God. Will you join us in praying for the grace of God, for His salvation to reach the PB peoples?
*Pray for a PB woman that we heard about recently. Mrs. Lane confessed that for years it was if she was unable to think on her own, like some power was over her and all she could do was whatever her husband demanded of her. When some national believers shared the Gospel with her, even in her own language, she said that it was like they were speaking a foreign language that she could not understand. Repeatedly these believers went to visit with Mrs. Lane and tried to share the Gospel with her. She reports that one day she understood and it made sense. God opened her heart and she became a follower of Jesus Christ. Her husband and parents who are Muslims and also believe in magical powers are still following the path of destruction. Pray for Mr. Lane and Mrs. Lane's family.
*Please continue to pray for the suffering family that was mentioned in the last blog and for their salvation.
Again brothers and sisters in Christ, thank you for your love for the saints and a desire to see His Name and Kingdom reach the ends of the earth... and in our part of the world that is known as the PB peoples.
Brothers and sisters, the PB team sends you greetings. Thank you for those of you who have emailed us recently and encouraged us with your words, your prayers, and support for the PB people.
Please continue to lift up the salvation of the PB people, asking the Lord to spread His Kingdom here among the PB people, that His Gospel would go forth clearly and boldly. "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thess 5:16-18)."
* A few days ago my family and I rode about 45 minutes away to see a section of where our PB people live. Their lives are plain. Their children run and play in the grass. Men and women gather on porches. Some women are sitting in the yards keeping birds, chickens, animals and what not from bothering the rice that their family is trying to dry out. Everything appears normal. Everything appears happy. But the heavy cloud remains in my mind... some of these have never heard the Gospel clearly, almost all of these are doomed for the pits of hell... but for the grace of God. Will you join us in praying for the grace of God, for His salvation to reach the PB peoples?
*Pray for a PB woman that we heard about recently. Mrs. Lane confessed that for years it was if she was unable to think on her own, like some power was over her and all she could do was whatever her husband demanded of her. When some national believers shared the Gospel with her, even in her own language, she said that it was like they were speaking a foreign language that she could not understand. Repeatedly these believers went to visit with Mrs. Lane and tried to share the Gospel with her. She reports that one day she understood and it made sense. God opened her heart and she became a follower of Jesus Christ. Her husband and parents who are Muslims and also believe in magical powers are still following the path of destruction. Pray for Mr. Lane and Mrs. Lane's family.
*Please continue to pray for the suffering family that was mentioned in the last blog and for their salvation.
Again brothers and sisters in Christ, thank you for your love for the saints and a desire to see His Name and Kingdom reach the ends of the earth... and in our part of the world that is known as the PB peoples.
Friday, July 4, 2008
PR - 01/07/08
I am sorry to say that a month has passed and I haven't updated the prayer blog. Sorry about that. I have been sick and we have had meetings and on the excuses could go but lets get to the main thing...
One hardship after another...
A Muslim family near our farm has experienced a season of great difficulty. Their daughter died and a few weeks ago their son was playing with matches and by accident their house burnt down, leaving them with little. This family has experienced other hard times as well. A very interesting thing about this family is that the man of the household has a magical objects. These can be a certain ring, a rock, or etc.
Magical objects/rings are no joke in this area. Even this part of the world. Let me explain... many believe they can keep evil things from happening to them or their family by having these objects. This is a demonic power which is very real and present in our world even though our western beliefs question their validity.
"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." Ephesians 6:12 ESV
We are unsure if this magical object was burnt up in the fire or not. Please pray that the evil one would NO LONGER have a grasp on this family. Please pray that the Lord would powerfully reveal himself to this man and his family. Please pray that God would save this man, his family, and the surrounding community as they know about this man's beliefs.
Dreaming dreams....
Last month I asked you to pray for the PB peoples to dream dreams and see visions that would reveal Jesus as the Savior and only way to God. We continue to ask you to pray for God to powerfully make himself known to our PB people. At the same time, we have recently heard how our Lord is giving dreams and visions to some of you and raising up more prayer partners for the PB peoples back home. Praise the Lord. Please continue to pray for the salvation of the PB people and for more prayer partners to rise up and pray for the nations. More specifically, for our PB peoples.
Lastly, please continue to pray for our national partners here. Pray for their faith in the Lord to grow deeper. Pray for boldness. Pray for their health and their families.
"In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me [PB team and national partners], that words may be given to [us] in opening [our] mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel" Ephesian 6:16-19 [emphasis mine] ESV
One hardship after another...
A Muslim family near our farm has experienced a season of great difficulty. Their daughter died and a few weeks ago their son was playing with matches and by accident their house burnt down, leaving them with little. This family has experienced other hard times as well. A very interesting thing about this family is that the man of the household has a magical objects. These can be a certain ring, a rock, or etc.
Magical objects/rings are no joke in this area. Even this part of the world. Let me explain... many believe they can keep evil things from happening to them or their family by having these objects. This is a demonic power which is very real and present in our world even though our western beliefs question their validity.
"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." Ephesians 6:12 ESV
We are unsure if this magical object was burnt up in the fire or not. Please pray that the evil one would NO LONGER have a grasp on this family. Please pray that the Lord would powerfully reveal himself to this man and his family. Please pray that God would save this man, his family, and the surrounding community as they know about this man's beliefs.
Dreaming dreams....
Last month I asked you to pray for the PB peoples to dream dreams and see visions that would reveal Jesus as the Savior and only way to God. We continue to ask you to pray for God to powerfully make himself known to our PB people. At the same time, we have recently heard how our Lord is giving dreams and visions to some of you and raising up more prayer partners for the PB peoples back home. Praise the Lord. Please continue to pray for the salvation of the PB people and for more prayer partners to rise up and pray for the nations. More specifically, for our PB peoples.
Lastly, please continue to pray for our national partners here. Pray for their faith in the Lord to grow deeper. Pray for boldness. Pray for their health and their families.
"In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me [PB team and national partners], that words may be given to [us] in opening [our] mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel" Ephesian 6:16-19 [emphasis mine] ESV
Sunday, June 1, 2008
PR - 1/06/08
"Yet God my King is from of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth." Psalm 74:12
The PB team cannot thank you enough for your prayers and covenant to pray along with us for the PB people - all 2 million that are bound by the evil one and darkness.
Brothers and sisters our work is not yet done, we have MORE requests to share with you:
+ An article that our team has recently read says that through God's prompting there are several ways the Lord is leading Muslims to saving faith in Jesus Christ. One of those ways is through dreams/visions and healings. We ask for you to pray that God would send dreams/visions of Him and His Son Jesus to the PB Muslims. Ask that God would disrupt the sleep and thoughts of our 2 million people, and cause them to see dreams and visions of Jesus - causing them to question who He is and through this that God would save the PB people.
+ The one Christian man who came to the last Ag training has requested one of our men to come and lead a Bible Study with his family and some others that live around him. Pray that the logistcs of this would come together and that this opportunity not be squandered. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations..."
+ Yet another Ag training will be held on June 17th through July 3rd. Please pray for those who will attend and learn about agricultural techniques and hear the chronological stories of the Bible.
+ Please pray for men and women who have come to faith in Jesus Christ, yet their spouses or other family members are not yet believers. Pray that the believing spouse/family member will "let [their] light shine before others, so that they may see [their] good works and give glory to [our] Father who is in heaven." Matt 5:16. Pray that whole families will turn from their sin and unbelief and become followers of Jesus Christ.
The PB team cannot thank you enough for your prayers and covenant to pray along with us for the PB people - all 2 million that are bound by the evil one and darkness.
Brothers and sisters our work is not yet done, we have MORE requests to share with you:
+ An article that our team has recently read says that through God's prompting there are several ways the Lord is leading Muslims to saving faith in Jesus Christ. One of those ways is through dreams/visions and healings. We ask for you to pray that God would send dreams/visions of Him and His Son Jesus to the PB Muslims. Ask that God would disrupt the sleep and thoughts of our 2 million people, and cause them to see dreams and visions of Jesus - causing them to question who He is and through this that God would save the PB people.
+ The one Christian man who came to the last Ag training has requested one of our men to come and lead a Bible Study with his family and some others that live around him. Pray that the logistcs of this would come together and that this opportunity not be squandered. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations..."
+ Yet another Ag training will be held on June 17th through July 3rd. Please pray for those who will attend and learn about agricultural techniques and hear the chronological stories of the Bible.
+ Please pray for men and women who have come to faith in Jesus Christ, yet their spouses or other family members are not yet believers. Pray that the believing spouse/family member will "let [their] light shine before others, so that they may see [their] good works and give glory to [our] Father who is in heaven." Matt 5:16. Pray that whole families will turn from their sin and unbelief and become followers of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
PR - 15/05/08
Let me begin by updating you on our last prayer requests.
* The agricultural/chronoligical Bible storying training is still going on and there are a few days left on the training. Originally there were to be several attendees, however one lone soul showed up to attend. Please continue to pray for Pak Trans. Pak basically means Mr. in our language. So anytime we speak to someone here, we refer to them as Pak or Ibu. (Ibu being Mrs.) Pak Trans is already a believer, please pray that while he is here, he will grow deeper in his faith and be challenged by the godliness he may see in our brothers and sisters here on the farm. Pray that he will go back to his village with a deeper love of our Lord and a desire to see all those around him become followers of Jesus our Saviour.
* The meeting on May 2nd went well. The teaching was accepted well, and many remain challenged and are still praying for how they feel about this teaching and what God may be calling them to do. There are a few families that feel like they need to follow God in new bolder ways. Please pray for these families, for wisdom from God, deeper love of our Lord, deeper desire to know Him and be in His Word, and for increasing boldness.
* The last update/request also affects what I am about to share here. As you may remember we were asking you to pray for new believers who do not yet meet in any type of fellowship/group/Bible study but we long to see them begin meeting and being discipled. Please continue to pray for these new believers, and please also pray for these families above that may be instrumental in helping gather these new believers and discipling them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Newer requests:
* Please pray for Ibu (Mrs) Paycall. She is a follower of Jesus. She shares the story that at one point in her life, her husband had her under a spell (for several years actually). Some of our national partners here had tried to share the Gospel with her. She says that when they did, it was as if they were speaking a totally foreign language, until one day... she understood. And later, it was clear to her that she needed the Saviour, Jesus Christ. Her husband and parents are NOT believers. Please pray for their salvation. Pray that God would give her great boldness and clarity. Please pray that God would open their hearts and minds to the Good News of Jesus Christ.
* The agricultural/chronoligical Bible storying training is still going on and there are a few days left on the training. Originally there were to be several attendees, however one lone soul showed up to attend. Please continue to pray for Pak Trans. Pak basically means Mr. in our language. So anytime we speak to someone here, we refer to them as Pak or Ibu. (Ibu being Mrs.) Pak Trans is already a believer, please pray that while he is here, he will grow deeper in his faith and be challenged by the godliness he may see in our brothers and sisters here on the farm. Pray that he will go back to his village with a deeper love of our Lord and a desire to see all those around him become followers of Jesus our Saviour.
* The meeting on May 2nd went well. The teaching was accepted well, and many remain challenged and are still praying for how they feel about this teaching and what God may be calling them to do. There are a few families that feel like they need to follow God in new bolder ways. Please pray for these families, for wisdom from God, deeper love of our Lord, deeper desire to know Him and be in His Word, and for increasing boldness.
* The last update/request also affects what I am about to share here. As you may remember we were asking you to pray for new believers who do not yet meet in any type of fellowship/group/Bible study but we long to see them begin meeting and being discipled. Please continue to pray for these new believers, and please also pray for these families above that may be instrumental in helping gather these new believers and discipling them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Newer requests:
* Please pray for Ibu (Mrs) Paycall. She is a follower of Jesus. She shares the story that at one point in her life, her husband had her under a spell (for several years actually). Some of our national partners here had tried to share the Gospel with her. She says that when they did, it was as if they were speaking a totally foreign language, until one day... she understood. And later, it was clear to her that she needed the Saviour, Jesus Christ. Her husband and parents are NOT believers. Please pray for their salvation. Pray that God would give her great boldness and clarity. Please pray that God would open their hearts and minds to the Good News of Jesus Christ.
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