Today we pray for the final islands on our trip around the world. Our journey hops-skips from the US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean over to Wallis and Fatuna in the Pacific. Please read pages 886-888 and join me in prayer.
My prayer for today: Lord, Your Word tells us that the islands are Yours - they belong to You. Not only every nation that is an island, but every individual island, of the thousands on this globe, belongs to You. What joy that brings us as we pray today for the Virgin Islands, and ask You to work the Gospel into the fabric of the islands so that it permeates everything, impacting society, personal lifestyles, and family life. We pray for revival in the church so that vitality and vision are restored, and for churches to work together in evangelism and vision for the future. For Wallis and Fatuna, Lord Jesus, we praise You for the outreach of Pacific Islanders to reach their cultural "cousins". We pray for firsthand faith and that individuals will worship not out of cultural habit, but out of true love for Jesus. We pray for Scripture in the Wallisian language and that ample Christian resources will exist in both written and oral forms in the tribal languages. Bring glory to Yourself on these islands, in Jesus' name, amen.
Showing posts with label Prayer for the Pacific. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Prayer for the Pacific. Show all posts
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Prayer for Vanuatu: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 15
I simply cannot think of Vanuatu without remembering the title of a book I read by a missionary who went there. "The Man with the Bird on His Head" told the story of a man named John, from America, who went to Vanuatu as a side trip off a missions boat and walked right into the fulfillment of the beliefs of a "John Frum cargo cult" - groups set up after World War II that thought there would someday be loads of supplies coming from "John from America". The story beautifully tells how God used these presumptions to open a door for the islanders to hear the Gospel - and as a result, as Operation World notes, thousands have turned to Christ. The country was actually rededicated to the Lord in 2006. Please read pages 875-877 and pray with me today for a tiny speck in the Atlantic.
My prayer for today: Lord, how encouraging to read about Vanuatu and to see Your creativity in getting the Gospel to them. What a blessing to see a country devoted to You and standing on Your name! Please bless the church, bring unity to the Christians, and give them wisdom to fully evangelize the island. Lord Jesus, please guide the churches to know how to address their culture and respond to other belief systems that are taking room. We pray that the truth would be made manifest and the people to have a firm understanding of Your Word. In Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Lord, how encouraging to read about Vanuatu and to see Your creativity in getting the Gospel to them. What a blessing to see a country devoted to You and standing on Your name! Please bless the church, bring unity to the Christians, and give them wisdom to fully evangelize the island. Lord Jesus, please guide the churches to know how to address their culture and respond to other belief systems that are taking room. We pray that the truth would be made manifest and the people to have a firm understanding of Your Word. In Jesus' name, amen.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Prayer for Turks & Caicos Islands and for Tuvalu: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 28
Today we pray for two island nations - Turks & Caicos in the Caribbean, and Tuvalu in the Pacific. Please read pages 838-840.
My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for the religious freedom and heritage of these island nations. For Turks and Caicos, We pray for a righteousness that lines up with their faith - for the churches to address the money laundering, licentiousness and drug trafficking by living holy and faithful lives without compromise. We pray for overflowing love for the Haitian immigrants and for wisdom to address social issues in a way that benefits the entire population. For Tuvalu, we pray for dynamic biblical renewal and a turning to You in a personal way of all who call themselves Christians. Help their faith be more than a checkbox, Lord, help it be real in every area of their lives. In Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for the religious freedom and heritage of these island nations. For Turks and Caicos, We pray for a righteousness that lines up with their faith - for the churches to address the money laundering, licentiousness and drug trafficking by living holy and faithful lives without compromise. We pray for overflowing love for the Haitian immigrants and for wisdom to address social issues in a way that benefits the entire population. For Tuvalu, we pray for dynamic biblical renewal and a turning to You in a personal way of all who call themselves Christians. Help their faith be more than a checkbox, Lord, help it be real in every area of their lives. In Jesus' name, amen.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Prayer for the Solomon Islands: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - October 28
Today's prayer focus takes us to a land with a surprisingly strong Christian tradition, and a great model of peacekeeping. Please read pages 751-753 about the Solomon Islands.
My prayer for today: We thank You, Lord, for the revivals in the Solomon Islands and and for the spiritual vitality of the churches. We thank You for the good testimony of peacekeeping during the civil conflict, and for the blessing of the nation by the Melanesian Brotherhood and in the church's role in reconciliation. What a model; what an example for us Lord! We pray for full forgiveness and reconciliation for all those traumatized by the civil war. We pray for repentance and a season of renewing. We pray for the church to be biblically strong and fight false teachings and cults. We ask Lord for You to give the church wisdom to fully enculturate the gospel among the various tribal groups, and that despite cultural differences they would be one in you. We ask, Lord, for solid and effective leadership training and for wisdom in the various ministries and missions agencies. Thank You for Your body in the Solomon Islands. In Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: We thank You, Lord, for the revivals in the Solomon Islands and and for the spiritual vitality of the churches. We thank You for the good testimony of peacekeeping during the civil conflict, and for the blessing of the nation by the Melanesian Brotherhood and in the church's role in reconciliation. What a model; what an example for us Lord! We pray for full forgiveness and reconciliation for all those traumatized by the civil war. We pray for repentance and a season of renewing. We pray for the church to be biblically strong and fight false teachings and cults. We ask Lord for You to give the church wisdom to fully enculturate the gospel among the various tribal groups, and that despite cultural differences they would be one in you. We ask, Lord, for solid and effective leadership training and for wisdom in the various ministries and missions agencies. Thank You for Your body in the Solomon Islands. In Jesus' name, amen.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Prayer for Samoa, San Marino, and Sao Tome & Principe
Today's prayer focus covers islands on three continents! Let's ask God to lift us up in the Spirit (like Phillip or Ezekiel) so we can truly see His heart for each of these tiny lands that He loves. Please read pages 724-727 about Samoa, San Marino, and Sao Tome and Principe.
My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for the presence of the church in Samoa in each village, but we pray for the strength of the church. We pray for revival and unity among the churches. We pray for the churches to meet practical needs and keep themselves unstained from the world. We pray for a Biblical faith that will safeguard against Mormonism or any other false system of belief. We pray for the churches to send missionaries and be revived by experiencing the power of the Gospel where Christ has not been named. For San Marino, Lord, we pray for those who are believers in name only to have a life-changing encounter with Jesus. We pray for evangelicals to take the opportunity to exercise religious freedom by sharing the Gospel. For Sao Tome and Principe, Lord, we pray for the Holy spirit to convict where there is syncretism and ancestor worship, and for the sovereignty of Jesus to be clearly shown. We pray for locally led, culturally relevant congregations with effective leadership to emerge. Be magnified in all these lands, Lord, in Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for the presence of the church in Samoa in each village, but we pray for the strength of the church. We pray for revival and unity among the churches. We pray for the churches to meet practical needs and keep themselves unstained from the world. We pray for a Biblical faith that will safeguard against Mormonism or any other false system of belief. We pray for the churches to send missionaries and be revived by experiencing the power of the Gospel where Christ has not been named. For San Marino, Lord, we pray for those who are believers in name only to have a life-changing encounter with Jesus. We pray for evangelicals to take the opportunity to exercise religious freedom by sharing the Gospel. For Sao Tome and Principe, Lord, we pray for the Holy spirit to convict where there is syncretism and ancestor worship, and for the sovereignty of Jesus to be clearly shown. We pray for locally led, culturally relevant congregations with effective leadership to emerge. Be magnified in all these lands, Lord, in Jesus' name, amen.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Praying for Papua New Guinea: A 365 Day Global Prayer Focus - Sept. 30
Today we are blessed to focus our prayers on a country that exemplifies the benefits of Bible translation. Translators have poured their lives into PNG, and the fruit is becoming evident with a growing Christian influence in society. Please read pages 670-675.
My prayer for today: Thank You, Lord, for the benefits of Bible translation in Papua New Guinea. Thank You for the progress and for the missions vision that is growing throughout the churches. We pray for continued prayer and pastoral presence in Parliament. We ask You to infuse leaders with wisdom to address the problems facing PNG today. We specifically pray for guidance in stemming the rising AIDS infections. Be with those churches seeking to promote biblical lifestyles and show Your love to those infected with AIDS. We pray for safety for the pilots who are a lifeline for churches and missions; equip them with the resources they need to fly safely. We pray for peace between PNG and the Bougainville islanders. Bring reconciliation and let the church lead the way to meeting the economic and social needs on the islands. Thank You for being strongly at work in PNG, in Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Thank You, Lord, for the benefits of Bible translation in Papua New Guinea. Thank You for the progress and for the missions vision that is growing throughout the churches. We pray for continued prayer and pastoral presence in Parliament. We ask You to infuse leaders with wisdom to address the problems facing PNG today. We specifically pray for guidance in stemming the rising AIDS infections. Be with those churches seeking to promote biblical lifestyles and show Your love to those infected with AIDS. We pray for safety for the pilots who are a lifeline for churches and missions; equip them with the resources they need to fly safely. We pray for peace between PNG and the Bougainville islanders. Bring reconciliation and let the church lead the way to meeting the economic and social needs on the islands. Thank You for being strongly at work in PNG, in Jesus' name, amen.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Prayer for New Zealand: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - September 16
Today our prayer journey takes us almost to the bottom of the planet - New Zealand. Please read pages 631-634. New Zealand is so encouraging, as the church was predicted to decline there - but God had other plans!
My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for the move of Your Spirit throughout denominations in New Zealand. We praise You for the strong churches and the sending mindset of the churches and their vision to multiply the missionary force significantly. We know You are going to do awesome things through the church in New Zealand. We pray against the deceptiveness of secularism and unbelief, and against the demonic influence of New Age spirituality. We pray for the church to be wise, united, and solidly based in Your Word. We pray for the Maori people to find the fullness of their identity through relationship with Jesus, and for a generation of Maori leaders to emerge in the churches. We pray for continued revival and renewal throughout the New Zealand church. In Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for the move of Your Spirit throughout denominations in New Zealand. We praise You for the strong churches and the sending mindset of the churches and their vision to multiply the missionary force significantly. We know You are going to do awesome things through the church in New Zealand. We pray against the deceptiveness of secularism and unbelief, and against the demonic influence of New Age spirituality. We pray for the church to be wise, united, and solidly based in Your Word. We pray for the Maori people to find the fullness of their identity through relationship with Jesus, and for a generation of Maori leaders to emerge in the churches. We pray for continued revival and renewal throughout the New Zealand church. In Jesus' name, amen.
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Prayers for New Caledonia: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - September 15
Today we pray for an island group in the Pacific, New Caledonia. Please read pages 629-631.
My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, we lift up this land that seems so far from us yet we know is so near to Your heart. We pray for a healing, peaceful, and fair transition to including the Kanaks in the political, economic, and legal life of the nation. We pray for ministry to help their addictions and to fill the Kanaks with a full life in Christ. We pray for revival in the older churches and unity within the churches overall. We pray for the house churches to grow and mature but to remain in unity with other churches. Guard and protect the church leaders from all territorialism and bring a strong focus on Scripture into every church. In Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, we lift up this land that seems so far from us yet we know is so near to Your heart. We pray for a healing, peaceful, and fair transition to including the Kanaks in the political, economic, and legal life of the nation. We pray for ministry to help their addictions and to fill the Kanaks with a full life in Christ. We pray for revival in the older churches and unity within the churches overall. We pray for the house churches to grow and mature but to remain in unity with other churches. Guard and protect the church leaders from all territorialism and bring a strong focus on Scripture into every church. In Jesus' name, amen.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Prayers for Namibia and Nauru: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - September 11
Today our journey takes us to Namibia, a country that has seen the fruit of united Christian prayer. We also will pray for the tiny island of Nauru, where offshore banking was shut down in the face of money laundering, despite the financial loss! Please read pages 614-618.
My prayer for today: What a refreshing day of prayer, Father! We thank You for Namibia, for the national prayer movement and the fruit of prayer borne out in the new stability and economic progress, as well as the healing of scars from colonialism and apartheid. We thank You for the heritage of missionaries int eh 19th century. We ask You, Lord, to finish what has been started in Namibia. We pray for the leaders to address poverty, land ownership, and the AIDS epidemic with wisdom and determination. We pray for the restoration of Biblical faith that rejects the liberal theology as well as the syncretism of the Afro-Spiritist movement. We pray for the new religious groups to work together and see a revival. Raise up spiritual leaders who can lead the church to address spiritual as well as social issues in a biblical manner. For Nauru, Lord, how awesome to see a country that has rejected the god of mammon. Honor their action, Lord, by blessing them financially and restoring what was lost in ill-gotten gain. The economic problems in Nauru are real, and the people need real solutions. We pray for You to anoint men and women with gifts of entrepreneurship to lead Nauru into an honest, sound financial existence. Thank You for working in this land, Lord Jesus. Amen.
My prayer for today: What a refreshing day of prayer, Father! We thank You for Namibia, for the national prayer movement and the fruit of prayer borne out in the new stability and economic progress, as well as the healing of scars from colonialism and apartheid. We thank You for the heritage of missionaries int eh 19th century. We ask You, Lord, to finish what has been started in Namibia. We pray for the leaders to address poverty, land ownership, and the AIDS epidemic with wisdom and determination. We pray for the restoration of Biblical faith that rejects the liberal theology as well as the syncretism of the Afro-Spiritist movement. We pray for the new religious groups to work together and see a revival. Raise up spiritual leaders who can lead the church to address spiritual as well as social issues in a biblical manner. For Nauru, Lord, how awesome to see a country that has rejected the god of mammon. Honor their action, Lord, by blessing them financially and restoring what was lost in ill-gotten gain. The economic problems in Nauru are real, and the people need real solutions. We pray for You to anoint men and women with gifts of entrepreneurship to lead Nauru into an honest, sound financial existence. Thank You for working in this land, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Saturday, September 01, 2012
Prayer for Micronesia: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - September 1
Today we pray for several island groups in the Pacific, collectively known as Micronesia. The Federated States, Marshall Islands, Northern Marianas, and Palau were formerly administered by the US, played key roles during World War II, and have had both the benefits and problems associated with significant western influence. They are predominantly Christian, but often with animistic customs as well. Please read pages 585-590.
My prayer for today: Lord, I lift up Micronesia to You. No nation is too great, no island too small to capture Your heart. In reality, every nation is written tenderly on Your heart, and You spilled Your precious blood for each of the people on these islands. We thank You that the Gospel message has gone forth and we pray for a full embracing of Biblical truths and a rejection of idolatry. We pray against consumerism and materialism from western influences. And we pray for You to protect believers from cults and false teachings. Guide them to know Your Word and be firmly established to not be deceived. We pray specifically for the Marshall Islands, with their tragic history of occupation, exploitation, and war and the nuclear bomb testing. The devastating effect of this on their health and lifestyle is heartbreaking. We pray for Marshallese in the US to encounter Your love and have their needs met in sustainable ways. We pray for Godly leadership in the churches. Lord, we repent for not thinking of the people on those islands when we tested the bombs. They are paying the price for our selfishness. We pray, Lord, for more opportunities to minister to their needs and to engage them in love and service. Thank You, Lord, for Your grace on the Marshallese and on us. In Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Lord, I lift up Micronesia to You. No nation is too great, no island too small to capture Your heart. In reality, every nation is written tenderly on Your heart, and You spilled Your precious blood for each of the people on these islands. We thank You that the Gospel message has gone forth and we pray for a full embracing of Biblical truths and a rejection of idolatry. We pray against consumerism and materialism from western influences. And we pray for You to protect believers from cults and false teachings. Guide them to know Your Word and be firmly established to not be deceived. We pray specifically for the Marshall Islands, with their tragic history of occupation, exploitation, and war and the nuclear bomb testing. The devastating effect of this on their health and lifestyle is heartbreaking. We pray for Marshallese in the US to encounter Your love and have their needs met in sustainable ways. We pray for Godly leadership in the churches. Lord, we repent for not thinking of the people on those islands when we tested the bombs. They are paying the price for our selfishness. We pray, Lord, for more opportunities to minister to their needs and to engage them in love and service. Thank You, Lord, for Your grace on the Marshallese and on us. In Jesus' name, amen.
Thursday, August 02, 2012
Prayer for Kiribati: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - August 2
Today's country for prayer is tucked in with Kenya, day 2, but we are going to highlight Kiribati in our time together. One thing I love about God is that He puts people's hearts together for His kingdom purposes. Most of us have never heard of Kiribati, but this follower of Jesus has a heart for them that comes through in this video and prayer. Please read pages 505-506, and let's join this believer in prayer, seeking God's heart for Kiribati today.
http://youtu.be/lpec7xnlh6s
http://youtu.be/lpec7xnlh6s
Thursday, June 07, 2012
Prayer for Guadeloupe and Guam: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey, June 7
As with many Caribbean nations, Guadeloupe's history is marred and in many ways defined by the legacy of slavery. As in every nation, the need to reach the root causes of problems will make a huge difference. These root causes are spiritual, of course, but are also manifest in specific ways. Read about Guadeloupe on page 378 to understand a little more about this nation.
Guam's legacy has been defined by outsiders in many ways, for both good and bad, especially with the U.S. Military presence since World War II. Details about Guam are on pages 379-380.
My prayer for today: Lord, in both Guadeloupe and Guam we see severe impacts that have been made by those who came into the country in the past for their own purposes. We see the pros and cons of these, but Lord we also see that the most important impact that should be made in either country is the impact of Your presence. We pray for Your Spirit to fall in a strong way in Guadeloupe and in Guam. For Guadeloupe we ask for true freedom and for economic justice to prevail. We pray against the racial tension and class envy; please let the love and peace of the Gospel transform and uplift Guadeloupe. We pray for true repentance and surrender to the Lordship of Christ. We pray against legalism and for such an outpouring of Your Spirit that believers will learn to trust the Holy Spirit in their own lives and in each others' lives. For Guam, Lord, we pray for the positive impact it can have in Micronesia to expand to influence of the Gospel. We pray for unity and spiritual power from the Holy Spirit. We pray for Biblical righteousness to shape Guam, rather than American culture. We pray for a church to emerge among the Chamorro. We pray for the missions outreach from Guam to the rest of the world to be fruitful. Thank You for Your work in Guam among the Prison Fellowship and Christian radio; raise up laborers for the harvest. Complete what You have started in Guam.
Guam's legacy has been defined by outsiders in many ways, for both good and bad, especially with the U.S. Military presence since World War II. Details about Guam are on pages 379-380.
My prayer for today: Lord, in both Guadeloupe and Guam we see severe impacts that have been made by those who came into the country in the past for their own purposes. We see the pros and cons of these, but Lord we also see that the most important impact that should be made in either country is the impact of Your presence. We pray for Your Spirit to fall in a strong way in Guadeloupe and in Guam. For Guadeloupe we ask for true freedom and for economic justice to prevail. We pray against the racial tension and class envy; please let the love and peace of the Gospel transform and uplift Guadeloupe. We pray for true repentance and surrender to the Lordship of Christ. We pray against legalism and for such an outpouring of Your Spirit that believers will learn to trust the Holy Spirit in their own lives and in each others' lives. For Guam, Lord, we pray for the positive impact it can have in Micronesia to expand to influence of the Gospel. We pray for unity and spiritual power from the Holy Spirit. We pray for Biblical righteousness to shape Guam, rather than American culture. We pray for a church to emerge among the Chamorro. We pray for the missions outreach from Guam to the rest of the world to be fruitful. Thank You for Your work in Guam among the Prison Fellowship and Christian radio; raise up laborers for the harvest. Complete what You have started in Guam.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Prayer or French Guiana and French Polynesia: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - May 26 (Day 147)
Today we pray for two lands tied to France by political and linguistic connections. Please read pages 346-349.
My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, Thank You that no place is out of reach for You. We thank You for the openness in the Amerindian groups in French Guiana, for the growth of evangelicals among the Creole and other groups, and for what You are doing in churches in French Guiana. We pray for Your hand to guide this country through this transition era where they are seeking to move into a new approach of development. We pray for You to reduce the availability and influence of French TV and the pornography that is tearing at the fabric of this tiny land. We pray for Scripture in their language and for leaders who know how to teach the Word of God. For French Polynesia, Lord we ask that You restore Tahiti to its former Christian strength. Remove the spirit of immorality and materialism and open people's hearts for the Gospel. We pray for missions outreach, vital personal faith, and a spiritual revolution. Bring the church here back to its first love and strengthen what remains. Guide them with wisdom to reach the unreached. Thank You Jesus that You have not left Tahiti and the other islands behind. In Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, Thank You that no place is out of reach for You. We thank You for the openness in the Amerindian groups in French Guiana, for the growth of evangelicals among the Creole and other groups, and for what You are doing in churches in French Guiana. We pray for Your hand to guide this country through this transition era where they are seeking to move into a new approach of development. We pray for You to reduce the availability and influence of French TV and the pornography that is tearing at the fabric of this tiny land. We pray for Scripture in their language and for leaders who know how to teach the Word of God. For French Polynesia, Lord we ask that You restore Tahiti to its former Christian strength. Remove the spirit of immorality and materialism and open people's hearts for the Gospel. We pray for missions outreach, vital personal faith, and a spiritual revolution. Bring the church here back to its first love and strengthen what remains. Guide them with wisdom to reach the unreached. Thank You Jesus that You have not left Tahiti and the other islands behind. In Jesus' name, amen.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Prayer for Fiji: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - May 22 (Day 143)
Today we continue with an island focus as we pray for Fiji. This group of islands has seen more than its share of political drama, with four coups in the past 25 years. Sadly, these coups are at least partly racially motivated, and the de facto state church has failed to condemn the racism. Fiji is a great place over which to pray Ephesians 2:14: For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility. Please read pages 334-336.
My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, our peace, You died to bring us into oneness with You and each other. Ethnic hostility is contrary to the truth of the Gospel. We pray for You to bring the church leaders into alignment with Your Word in this area. Lord, we pray for the Indians who see the Gospel as being discredited by the actions of those who claim to know You. We pra for Fiji to have a spirit of freedom and equality, for repentance and true reconciliation. We pray for righteousness and justice to flow in Fiji. We lift up the churches to You and pray for strong discernment and authentic fruitfulness. We pray for Fiji to recapture the missions vision of the past and reach the world within its borders as well as those outside the island. Call many Fijian Christians to be missionaries, Lord. Let the church be a transformational influence on society. In Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, our peace, You died to bring us into oneness with You and each other. Ethnic hostility is contrary to the truth of the Gospel. We pray for You to bring the church leaders into alignment with Your Word in this area. Lord, we pray for the Indians who see the Gospel as being discredited by the actions of those who claim to know You. We pra for Fiji to have a spirit of freedom and equality, for repentance and true reconciliation. We pray for righteousness and justice to flow in Fiji. We lift up the churches to You and pray for strong discernment and authentic fruitfulness. We pray for Fiji to recapture the missions vision of the past and reach the world within its borders as well as those outside the island. Call many Fijian Christians to be missionaries, Lord. Let the church be a transformational influence on society. In Jesus' name, amen.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Prayer for Cook Islands, Niue, Pitcairn, and Tokelau: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - April 30 (Day 121)
Today we visit another patch of islands in Polynesia - islands all related in some way to New Zealand. Please read pages 278-280. These islands may be tiny, but God still calls them to worship Him! I'm so grateful He sees not only the large masses of people, but the tiny clusters as well.
My prayer for today: Lord, thank You for the gospel translation into Tokelau. We pray it will impact their walk with You and that the rest of the Bible will be completed. Use Your Word to transform these islands. We praise You for shutting down the money-laundering offshore banking, and we pray You will raise up Christian businessmen who can help creative just and righteous work opportunities. We thank You for the Christian legacy but we pray for revival Lord. Restore Your Word to a prominent place so that they can fight the lies of the cults. We pray for those who go to New Zealand to remember their homelands and seek true development to make a long-term difference on the islands. In Jesus' name, amen.
My prayer for today: Lord, thank You for the gospel translation into Tokelau. We pray it will impact their walk with You and that the rest of the Bible will be completed. Use Your Word to transform these islands. We praise You for shutting down the money-laundering offshore banking, and we pray You will raise up Christian businessmen who can help creative just and righteous work opportunities. We thank You for the Christian legacy but we pray for revival Lord. Restore Your Word to a prominent place so that they can fight the lies of the cults. We pray for those who go to New Zealand to remember their homelands and seek true development to make a long-term difference on the islands. In Jesus' name, amen.
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Feb. 8 (Day 39)
Today we finalize our prayers for the Pacific Islands, then get ready to shake off the sea legs so we can start our country-by-country in-depth hike tomorrow! I hope God has given you a glimpse of His heart for these islands. Please read pages 86-87, then return for prayer time.
Are you familiar with the John Frum cargo cults? Some of the islands, following World War II, fell into worship of someone they called "John Frum" -- as in "John from America" -- who would come to the island and bring material prosperity. An amazing story is told in the book The Man with the Bird on his Head about how God used a man from America, named John, on one remote island to bring the Gospel, which the people ultimately found much better than the material prosperity they had expected. Understanding this unique religious history of some of these islands sheds new light on the need to pray for the church and its need for discipleship. Even though the Gospel has been in many of these islands for years, there are still hundreds of languages without the Bible and many without even a translator working! Let's pray for the church in the Pacific now.
My prayer for today: Oh God, You are Lord over the church in the Pacific. Thank You for all the creative ways You got the message of truth to them -- even with a simple man named John from America! Thank You that You revealed Yourself as better than material prosperity. Lord, we pray today for the church in the Pacific. We pray for Scripture in their language! Call translators to go and translate the Bible for them. Only as they have full Scripture will they be able to be fully discipled. Lord, help those ministering among them to have access at least to oral Scripture or near-language translations, anything to help them better understand and communicate the message of truth to believers. Let Your Holy Spirit work strongly in them to guard and protect them from deception such as the rapid growth of Mormonism. Lord, we pray for their other needs - the adjustment to demographic shifts and wisdom in the face of secularism and multiculturalism; the ethnic and age shifts; the decline of some forms of Christianity. Lord, at the end of the day let it be You who reign supreme even if the forms change. Raise up leaders who can make disciples. We ask for the church to lead the way in true justice and that the church would be unified in its mission for You. Lord, finish the task. Send laborers to the remaining people groups and those who need to be re-evangelized. Minister to the immigrants. Meet every need in the Pacific today. Thank You for the heart You've given us. Guide us to fully obey how You want us to give, pray, or go to the Pacific. In Jesus' name, amen.
Resources:
- http://www.joshuaproject.net/prayer-resources.php - Prayer calendars for the unreached in a few key areas of the Pacific.
- http://www.joshuaproject.net/ - Amazing research tool for digging deeper
- http://www.globaldayofprayer.com/ - Focuses on the annual event, but also includes urgent alerts and prayer points for countries on an ongoing basis
- http://actnowpng.org/content/pacific-islands-prayer - Prayer emphasis for Papua New Guinea.
Are you already part of what God is doing in the Pacific? If so please comment with any additional resources that you would recommend.
Are you familiar with the John Frum cargo cults? Some of the islands, following World War II, fell into worship of someone they called "John Frum" -- as in "John from America" -- who would come to the island and bring material prosperity. An amazing story is told in the book The Man with the Bird on his Head about how God used a man from America, named John, on one remote island to bring the Gospel, which the people ultimately found much better than the material prosperity they had expected. Understanding this unique religious history of some of these islands sheds new light on the need to pray for the church and its need for discipleship. Even though the Gospel has been in many of these islands for years, there are still hundreds of languages without the Bible and many without even a translator working! Let's pray for the church in the Pacific now.
My prayer for today: Oh God, You are Lord over the church in the Pacific. Thank You for all the creative ways You got the message of truth to them -- even with a simple man named John from America! Thank You that You revealed Yourself as better than material prosperity. Lord, we pray today for the church in the Pacific. We pray for Scripture in their language! Call translators to go and translate the Bible for them. Only as they have full Scripture will they be able to be fully discipled. Lord, help those ministering among them to have access at least to oral Scripture or near-language translations, anything to help them better understand and communicate the message of truth to believers. Let Your Holy Spirit work strongly in them to guard and protect them from deception such as the rapid growth of Mormonism. Lord, we pray for their other needs - the adjustment to demographic shifts and wisdom in the face of secularism and multiculturalism; the ethnic and age shifts; the decline of some forms of Christianity. Lord, at the end of the day let it be You who reign supreme even if the forms change. Raise up leaders who can make disciples. We ask for the church to lead the way in true justice and that the church would be unified in its mission for You. Lord, finish the task. Send laborers to the remaining people groups and those who need to be re-evangelized. Minister to the immigrants. Meet every need in the Pacific today. Thank You for the heart You've given us. Guide us to fully obey how You want us to give, pray, or go to the Pacific. In Jesus' name, amen.
Resources:
- http://www.joshuaproject.net/prayer-resources.php - Prayer calendars for the unreached in a few key areas of the Pacific.
- http://www.joshuaproject.net/ - Amazing research tool for digging deeper
- http://www.globaldayofprayer.com/ - Focuses on the annual event, but also includes urgent alerts and prayer points for countries on an ongoing basis
- http://actnowpng.org/content/pacific-islands-prayer - Prayer emphasis for Papua New Guinea.
Are you already part of what God is doing in the Pacific? If so please comment with any additional resources that you would recommend.
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - February 7 (Day 38)
Today we focus on "Hot Spots" and "Trends to Watch" regarding the Pacific islands. As with other regions, we look at trends that affect the entire region and thus need solutions that extend beyond one country. Please read these sections on pages 85-86.
My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You that You are Lord of the islands. Nothing is beyond You and no problem is too great or small for Your touch. We pray for the unrest and violence that have popped up throughout some locations and lift a specific prayer for Fiji. Please intervene as their Prince of Peace. We pray for protection for other islands with similar conflicts and limited resources - we pray that You will bring reconciliation before the problems reach a boiling point. Lord, we ask You for the younger generations in the Island nations. We pray that You would call men and women with a gift of administration back to the islands to bring business and economic recovery. Anoint them with the ability to grow their nations and provide jobs for the young, to stop the bleeding of the exodus away from the lands. Lord for those who are already living away, we pray for them to stay close to You and close to their family members. We pray that families who immigrate would be able to do so together, without the stress and temptation from a divided family unit. Lord, we pray for the isolated communities that are struggling. We know that change happens, Lord, but we pray that change will be kingdom-oriented, positive, and helpful. We pray for the health of the people and that they will have wisdom in navigating the waters of the changing times. We pray for total reconciliation and forgiveness with regard to the arrival of Europeans. Let Christians lead the way in that repentance process. Bring complete and total peace as only You can, between the "west"and also among the tribes themselves. Pour out Your love and grace upon the Islands, Lord, in Jesus' name, Amen.
My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You that You are Lord of the islands. Nothing is beyond You and no problem is too great or small for Your touch. We pray for the unrest and violence that have popped up throughout some locations and lift a specific prayer for Fiji. Please intervene as their Prince of Peace. We pray for protection for other islands with similar conflicts and limited resources - we pray that You will bring reconciliation before the problems reach a boiling point. Lord, we ask You for the younger generations in the Island nations. We pray that You would call men and women with a gift of administration back to the islands to bring business and economic recovery. Anoint them with the ability to grow their nations and provide jobs for the young, to stop the bleeding of the exodus away from the lands. Lord for those who are already living away, we pray for them to stay close to You and close to their family members. We pray that families who immigrate would be able to do so together, without the stress and temptation from a divided family unit. Lord, we pray for the isolated communities that are struggling. We know that change happens, Lord, but we pray that change will be kingdom-oriented, positive, and helpful. We pray for the health of the people and that they will have wisdom in navigating the waters of the changing times. We pray for total reconciliation and forgiveness with regard to the arrival of Europeans. Let Christians lead the way in that repentance process. Bring complete and total peace as only You can, between the "west"and also among the tribes themselves. Pour out Your love and grace upon the Islands, Lord, in Jesus' name, Amen.
Monday, February 06, 2012
A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Feb. 6 (Day 37)
Today we begin a beautiful journey through one of God's most creative parts of the world. The Pacific is home to thousands of tiny islands and distinct people groups. Yet they are not forgotten by their Maker!
Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise from the ends of the earth, you who go
down to the sea, and all that is in it, you islands, and all who live in them. (Isa. 42:10, NIV)
Some of these islands have been singing His praise for generations. Others have yet to hear. As we wrap up our continent-by-continent tour, we will spend three days getting to know this part of the world. Let's ask God to give us His heart for these islands so that they will remain in our hearts beyond this three-day introduction!
Please read pages 82-85 (map, country list, blue boxed statistical material, and Answers to Prayer).
25,000 islands - and not one forgotten by God. From vast Australia to tiny Christmas Island, they all belong to Him. Let's thank God today for His work to this point and for the heart He is going to give us over the next few days. Finally, I've included a video below to help us picture our Island brothers and sisters in worship. The translation is no available for all of the video, but the joy on their faces is evident!
My prayer for today: Thank You, Lord, for the Gospel message in the Pacific and for the receptiveness of the people. So many died to bring the Gospel here but ultimately, people turned to you in large numbers. Thank You that the South Pacific Prayer Assembly and Deep Sea Canoe Movement remember this heritage and are calling people to a renewed vision of missions and prayer. Thank You for the missionaries from New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and other areas. We thank You Lord for the relative stability of thes islands, and we pray for the transitions that are taking place from the "old ways" to the "new ways". In the midst of this, let them see You as THE way. Lord, we ask that You quicken our hearts for the Pacific over the next few days. Help us see our part in Your plan to finish the task here as elsewhere. In Jesus' name, amen.
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