Prayer
SEP – DEC 2019
Prayer Network The Hayes, Swanwick 24 – 26 January 2020
Encounter
Prayer Gathering ‘Boldness in Prayer and Mission’ Guest speakers include: Richard Gamble: CEO The wall of answered prayer Lyndall Bywater: Writer and speaker on all things prayer Rev Clive McKie: Taketime Founder Lieut-Colonel Drew McCombe: Assistant Secretary for Mission Colonels Lee and Debbie Graves: (CS & TSLD) Worship leaders: Joel and Jo Thomas (Cheltenham Corps) ‘Early Bird’ discount (pay before 31st October): £165 per person After 1st November full price applies: £180 per person Deposit of £35 secures a place Application form available at corps / SA Website — salvationarmy.org.uk/prayer-network THQ Prayer Network Office / Territorial Events web pages The Salvation Army is a Registered Charity No 214779, and in Scotland SC009359
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Greetings, Prayer Warriors, Welcome to this September–December edition of Prayer Matters. My grateful thanks and acknowledgments to Stephanie Chagas–Bijl (Resource Hub, THQ) who has collated and edited this issue, and of course to all our guest writers who inform and enrich our prayer focus. I hope that you will find this edition of Prayer Matters inspiring and helpful as you pray for the many facets of mission and ministry in our territory and that you enjoy the beautiful series of Advent prayer reflections brought to us by Commissioner Margaret Sutherland. Other Prayer Network news: Encounter Prayer Gathering Weekend 24–26 January 2020: ‘Boldness in Prayer and Mission’ (The Hayes Conference Centre, Swanwick). We have a great line–up of speakers and would love to see you there. Book early to avoid disappointment – places fill up fast. Early bird discount available, booking now open! ‘One Thing’ Prayer School DVD series – I’m delighted to tell you that the third and final DVD in the series is now completed and a free copy has been sent to every corps in the territory. This has been a long–term, God– inspired project, involving collaboration with so many individuals, corps and Salvation Army departments. Our heartfelt thanks go to all who have contributed in any way. The result, we feel, is a comprehensive, inspiring Prayer School teaching resource, freely available for use by individuals and, ideally, small groups who want to develop a deeper personal and corps prayer life. Season 1, ‘One Thing for us – bringing personal prayer to life’ Season 2, ‘One Thing for the Church – growing prayer together’ Season 3, ‘One Thing for the World – moving out in prayer’ All are available now. For additional copies you can buy DVDs from SP&S (online or in the shop) for £12.95 each. Alternatively visit our webpage for links to the sessions which can be downloaded free of charge, along with the workbook in pdf format – www.salvationarmy.org.uk/one-thing Once again, I find myself thanking God for the way in which he continues to raise up prayer in The Salvation Army, and for you, our faithful prayer partners. ‘I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit’ (Romans 15:13 NLT). Captain Pauline Milner, SA Prayer Co–ordinator
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Bible quotations from the New International Version (2011) unless otherwise stated.
SEPTEMBER EDUCATION FOCUS PPFIONA JOHNSON, RESOURCE CO-ORDINATOR (INCLUDING SCHOOLS) ffSUNDAY 1 SEPTEMBER Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of reading and the joy it brings to so many people. Please be with children as the world opens up to them through the power of books. We ask that you are also with those who find reading a challenge, and that their struggles are recognised and supported. Amen.
ffMONDAY 2 SEPTEMBER Lord, we pray for students as they are learning mathematics. Let them see the beauty in the patterns numbers make and enjoy their learning. We pray for clear teaching and understanding so they can learn the skills they need which will support them through their life. Amen.
ffTUESDAY 3 SEPTEMBER In the struggle to achieve academic results, there can be limited time for creativity and originality in our schools. Lord, we ask that there is space for our children to explore and express themselves; to be creative in different ways – in art, drama, dance and writing; to become the unique and blessed individuals you, who created all things, created them to be. Amen.
ffWEDNESDAY 4 SEPTEMBER Father God, look after the health of our young people in our schools. We pray that their bodies are nurtured as well as their minds. We pray that they learn about healthy lifestyles and value the many benefits that sport and activity bring to us. We pray for their mental health, and that they have support networks to help and guide them. Amen.
ffTHURSDAY 5 SEPTEMBER Dear Lord, we pray for Religious Education in our country; that students explore theological concepts and understand Christianity as a living 4
world faith. We ask that they connect with their learning, that it has a meaningful impact on their lives. Amen.
ffFRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER Dear Lord, today we pray for the people who work with our children in schools. Thank you for the dedication and hard work given by teachers and support staff, the school leadership team and school governors. Be with them and guide them as they support the young people in their care. Give them strength and wisdom, compassion and insight in all that they do. Amen.
ffSATURDAY 7 SEPTEMBER Dear Lord, we pray for The Salvation Army that works within and supports our schools. They seek to serve their community through mentoring, running clubs and by leading lessons and assemblies. Let them be a reflection of your love for our children, that our children may encounter Jesus and you through them. Amen.
SCRIPTURE FOCUS PPMAJOR GILLIAN MILLER, PRAYER NETWORK ``SETTING THE SCENE As we begin the season of the Big Collection, our focus is on giving generously. Let’s consider our own attitude to giving to the Lord’s work. We also give thanks for the generosity of the general public who are wonderful supporters of The Salvation Army.
ffSUNDAY 8 SEPTEMBER – GIVING TITHES AND OFFERINGS (LEVITICUS 27:30) In Haiti the poorest of people will bring one tenth of their ‘income’ to offer to God. When ten chicks are born and only one survives, then that one will be given away even though the family has little themselves. O Lord, show me how to give unselfishly and sacrificially, for I want to honour you with my tithes and offerings. Amen.
Pause and think seriously about your giving to God. This may take many forms – time, writing and posting cards, phone calls, using your car, supporting various charities and giving financially to your corps/ church. 5
ffMONDAY 9 SEPTEMBER – TREASURE IN HEAVEN (MATTHEW 6:19-21) Jesus promises that as we invest our resources in God’s Kingdom, our heart will also be pulled in that direction. Father God, I want my heart to be focused on Heaven and the joys that await me. Help me to let go of earthly treasures in favour of heavenly blessings. Amen. If you ever find yourself praying that God would awaken a desire in your heart for Kingdom things, try practising generosity for a month.
ffTUESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER – CHEERFUL GIVER (2 CORINTHIANS 9:7) One of the beautiful things about collecting for the Big Collection is interacting with the general public. It is a blessing when people want to give a donation, and so many donate with a cheerful heart. Thank you, God, for the generosity of the public to our work and for their willingness to support us. Bless all who give and all who collect with a cheerful spirit so they may rejoice in knowing you love them. Amen.
ffWEDNESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER – THE WIDOW’S GIFT (LUKE 21:1–4) It is easier to give out of full wallets and purses than to give out of almost empty pockets. True generosity doesn’t come from our excess; it comes from sacrificial hearts. God gets excited when we’re open-handed, and that is pretty inspiring. Loving Lord, when you saw the poor widow give her offering, you saw not the two coins but the generosity of her heart. Thank you for all those small coins that go into our boxes from those who are giving out of very little. Bless each gift with your love. Amen.
ffTHURSDAY 12 SEPTEMBER – GIVING AS TO JESUS (MATTHEW 25:35–40) Caring for our fellow man is caring for Jesus himself. As the Big Collection raises money to help people in need, we share in this wonderful calling to care. Father God, our prayers today encompass the lonely, the poor, the addict, the trafficked, the orphan, the homeless, the imprisoned and the hungry. We pray for someone to come alongside every person in need with an offer of compassionate care. Show me how I can help someone today. Amen.
ffFRIDAY 13 SEPTEMBER – THE MIRACLE OF GIVING (MATTHEW 14:17) When the boy gave Jesus his five loaves and two fish, he gave out of a generous heart. He saw the need and responded. God can multiply gifts 6
offered in love and faith. Lord, as you took the bread and fish from the boy, blessed it and shared it with 5,000 people, we pray that the money given in our Big Collection will be blessed and multiplied so the social work within our movement can continue to flourish. Amen.
ffSATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER – TRANSFORMATIONAL GIVING (LUKE 19:8) When Jesus met Zacchaeus it was a truly life-changing encounter for this tax collector. This is a picture of redemption and transformation. Father God, meeting with Jesus is life-changing. His gracious and giving love to us transforms our hearts and minds to want to be like him. We pray for lives to be changed, redeemed and transformed through the generosity of donors who give with the desire to make a difference. Amen.
MUSIC AND CREATIVE ARTS (MACA) FOCUS PPSTEPHANIE LAMPLOUGH, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, CREATIVE ARTS ffSUNDAY 15 SEPTEMBER – DECISIONS MADE AT SUMMER SCHOOLS (JEREMIAH 29:11) Pray for all the young people who have made faith-affirming decisions in the past few weeks while at various summer schools. Spending time with Christian friends, playing inspiring music and examining God’s word often leads to decisions being made. But coming out of this bubble and back into the reality of life can be daunting. Pray for reassurance in the decisions made and for sustaining and deepening faith.
ffMONDAY 16 SEPTEMBER – MUSIC SECTIONS (1 THESSALONIANS 5:11) Pray that the fellowship and spiritual nourishment experienced within corps music groups helps to build and sustain each member both in their personal faith and in their relationships with others. Pray also for groups that are in decline, that the Holy Spirit will renew and invigorate its members to find new ways to be relevant in today’s Salvation Army. Pray also for those who are currently looking at incorporating open sections into their worship. 7
ffTUESDAY 17 SEPTEMBER – CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP (PSALM 96) New songs are constantly being created and used to enhance worship in churches throughout the country. Pray for a renewed sense of the Holy Spirit within The Salvation Army as congregations embrace new songs in a similar way. Pray particularly for MACA’s new resource A New Song. May this be a way to help people to make new songs relevant to all demographics within The Salvation Army.
ffWEDNESDAY 18 SEPTEMBER – MACA DANCE (COLOSSIANS 3:23) MACA DANCE is the newly launched territorial dance group. As the members try to establish the group as a way of expressing faith and testimony in a powerful and moving way, pray that they will inspire and challenge others by their performances and dance workshops and that opportunities will continue to arise for them to use dance as a form of mission within The Salvation Army and the wider community.
ffTHURSDAY 19 SEPTEMBER – JOIN THE CRESCENDO (PSALM 150:6 THE PASSION) The verse from Psalm 150 is the inspiration behind the title of the new resource Join the Crescendo, which offers practical support and spiritual enrichment to leaders in brass tutoring, contemporary music and vocal groups. Pray that the resource will not only help individuals in their musical ministry, but also act as a tool to bring music and creative leaders across the territory closer in a working relationship with their regional specialist.
ffFRIDAY 20 SEPTEMBER – COLLABORATION WITH OTHER UNITS (1 CORINTHIANS 12:12-31) Pray that MACA will continue to find ways to work collaboratively with other units at THQ, as it has been doing on recent musical initiatives ranging from children to older people such as ‘One step at a time’, ‘Splash’ and ‘Singing by Heart’. Pray that these relationships continue to develop.
ffSATURDAY 21 SEPTEMBER – FORESIGHT WITHIN MACA (1 SAMUEL 3:9) Pray that as a team MACA will be open to hearing God’s voice and have the boldness to act. Pray that God will guide the team in the direction that he sees best fit, so that MACA can resource and serve the territory to the best of their ability. To God be the glory! 8
EFFECTIVENESS FOCUS PPMAJOR ELWYN HARRIES, ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR MISSION SUNDAY 22 SEPTEMBER – MARK 2:1-12
This story of a group of people lowering a paralysed man down from the roof, to the feet of the One who could meet that need, is a great illustration of effective mission. Read the story each day this week and prayerfully consider what God might be saying to you about your own mission, both corporate and personal.
ffMONDAY 23 SEPTEMBER – MARK 1:32-34 The friends displayed a confidence in Christ born out of their own personal encounter with him. Mark 1 tells us the whole town gathered to see Jesus and were amazed at what they heard and saw. Reflect on the depth of your own relationship with Jesus. As General Albert Orsborn reminds us, ‘The mind cannot show what the heart longs to know…’ (SASB 626).
TUESDAY 24 SEPTEMBER – JOHN 15:1-12
The friends displayed deep compassion for their friend. Nothing less could compel them to do what they did. This kind of compassion comes from the relationship we have with Christ. John 15 tells us that his love flows through us when we remain in him. Ask God to give you his love for those you seek to witness to.
WEDNESDAY 25 SEPTEMBER – GALATIANS 6:9
The friends were committed to the task. They refused to be distracted by what was merely good – like simply getting their friend out of the house for the day – but remained focused on their purpose of bringing him to the feet of Jesus. Ask God to reaffirm your purpose and to guard you against distraction.
THURSDAY 26 SEPTEMBER – MARK 2:3
They collaborated with each other. Only four did the carrying, and although Mark doesn’t tell us what the others did, they were all involved in bringing the man to Jesus. What is your unique contribution to God’s mission? Pray for those who have different functions from yours and seek guidance as to how you can best collaborate with them.
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ffFRIDAY 27 SEPTEMBER – JOSHUA 1:1-9 When everything seemed hopeless, they had the courage to rip up the roof. What seemingly ‘foolish’ thing is God calling you to do for which you need boldness and courage? Ask him for it, and in his received strength step out in faith.
ffSATURDAY 28 SEPTEMBER – MARK 2:1-12 Reflect back on the holistic healing of the paralysed man, which was brought about by the faithfulness of his friends. Consider which of the five characteristics you need to focus on specifically during this next season of your life. Pray for help and know that God will always equip his people to carry out his mission.
ffSUNDAY 29 SEPTEMBER – WELCOME TO CADETS This weekend has been the public welcome to new officer cadets at the William Booth College. Pray for the new Messengers of Grace Session as they commence this journey. May it be a time of rich learning, deep spiritual growth and the development of Christ-centred relationships with each other.
``PRAYER IN ACTION If you are part of a prayer group, pray this week together that the Holy Spirit will help the people in your corps, centre or headquarters display confidence, compassion, commitment, collaboration and courage to others.
DIVISIONAL PRAYER FOCUS (HERTS AND ESSEX) PPMAJOR JO JUSTICE, DIVISIONAL MISSION ENABLER AND PRAYER CO-ORDINATOR ffMONDAY 30 SEPTEMBER ‘If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,’ says the Lord’ (Jeremiah 29:13-14a NLT). These are God’s words for all the people of Israel. His desire is for the whole nation to have a hope and future; and he is looking for a collective response to this call to prayer. How will we respond collectively to the call to prayer – the call to gather to seek God together with all our hearts? 10
OCTOBER ffTUESDAY 1 OCTOBER In the town of Braintree there has been a long association between the local corps and the New Direction Lifehouse. Pray for those who work at the Lifehouse, and those who serve at the corps, and for the strengthening and development of supportive links between the two.
ffWEDNESDAY 2 OCTOBER ‘They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers’ (Acts 2:42 MSG). Learning, living, eating and praying together was the rhythm of life in the Spirit for the first followers of Jesus. Lord, help us to develop rhythms of prayer which draw us into the unity of the Spirit with others.
ffTHURSDAY 3 OCTOBER Castlepoint is a borough in the South of Essex which includes Hadleigh Temple Corps and the Hadleigh Farm Estate, known for its rare breeds farm and Olympic mountain bike circuits. These settings offer unique opportunities for collaboration in prayer and mission. Pray that God will continue to bring minds and hearts together in new ways, and that people will discover his surprises and possibilities!
ffFRIDAY 4 OCTOBER ‘Again, I give you an eternal truth: If two of you agree to ask God for something in a symphony of prayer, my heavenly Father will do it for you’ (Matthew 18:19 The Passion Translation). Have you ever thought of prayer with others as a symphony? You don’t have to be a musician to join in – anyone can play. Ask that God will help the division to continue to find opportunities for people to come together to pray.
ffSATURDAY 5 OCTOBER Last month the division gathered together for a weekend of prayer, worship, teaching and celebration. With the leadership of Commissioners Anthony and Gillian Cotterill, the theme was ‘Celebrate life together’. Pray that God continues to encourage faith, inspire vision and grow relationships together in the lives of all who attended. 11
ffSUNDAY 6 OCTOBER ‘So I’m asking you, my friends, that you be joined together in perfect unity – with one heart, one passion, and united in one love…’ (Philippians 2:2 The Passion Translation). How well do we know the corps down the road, the care home in our town, the Lifehouse in a neighbouring city, or the local charity shop which supports our own corps? Ask God to teach us to know each other better, to be ‘for’ one another in prayer.
HARVEST AND THANKSGIVING FOCUS PPMAJOR GILLIAN MILLLER, PRAYER NETWORK ffMONDAY 7 OCTOBER – ‘ALL GOOD GIFTS AROUND US ARE SENT FROM HEAVEN ABOVE’ Father God, as I give you thanks for your goodness, I am counting my blessings… (speak out your blessings to God). My heart is full of praise and thanksgiving for every good gift received so far in my life. Thank you for loving me, for adopting me into your family and calling me yours. Amen.
ffTUESDAY 8 OCTOBER – ‘WAITING FOR THE HARVEST AND THE TIME OF REAPING…’ Loving Father, as the farmer rejoices when he brings in the harvest, please give me the joy of seeing people come to know Jesus as their Saviour. As I wait, I pray for… (speak out the names of family and friends you are praying for). Keep me faithful in my desire to see precious lives transformed by your love and saving power. Amen.
ffWEDNESDAY 9 OCTOBER – GENESIS 8:22 Faithful God, your creation is amazing, and your promises are eternal. From the beginning you have shown mankind your constant care for all living things. As the years go by and the seasons continually turn, we can rely on your steadfast love and faithfulness. Amen.
ffTHURSDAY 10 OCTOBER – MATTHEW 9:37 Gracious Father, help me to see myself as a labourer for you. Show me what you need me to do to share your love with those who have not yet experienced your touch on their lives. Keep me aware of opportunities to sow seeds of kindness, compassion and grace. Give me a heart for the lost, I ask, in Jesus’ name. Amen. (Ask God who you need to share his love with today.) 12
ffFRIDAY 11 OCTOBER – ‘COME, YE THANKFUL PEOPLE, COME…’ O Lord, being thankful is such a joyous thing. It makes me want to express my thanks so the world will know I worship you. When I am feeling low and disgruntled with life, remind me to rejoice and be thankful in all circumstances. (Listen to some favourite music or paint a picture as a creative act of communing with God.)
ffSATURDAY 12 OCTOBER – MATTHEW 13:1-23 Father, as I am reminded in the parable of the sower, I see that the best thing for me to do is to throw out the seed of your word and allow you to cultivate it as you choose. Help me to be like the sower, faithfully spreading the word, sharing the love of Christ and waiting for your Holy Spirit to grow that seed whenever it lands on good soil. Amen.
ffSUNDAY 13 OCTOBER – ‘AND SOON THE REAPING TIME WILL COME…’ O Lord, I want to be ready when the heavenly harvest is gathered in and the day comes when I see you face to face. What a joyous day that will be! Thank you for placing your hand on my life and showing me the beauty of creation and giving me the desire to celebrate your goodness with thanksgiving in my heart every day. Amen.
MISSION FOCUS – PRAYING FOR THE JOURNEY PPMAJOR IAN MOUNTFORD, DIVISIONAL MISSION ENABLER (CENTRAL EAST DIVISION) ffMONDAY 14 OCTOBER – 1 PETER 1:18 (THE MESSAGE) Know that God is with you in your journey of life. He was with you in the past, he is with you in the present and he goes before you into the future. That’s true for you and your corps or context. Pray for your own personal journey.
ffTUESDAY 15 OCTOBER – MISSIO DEI, GOD’S MISSION (MATTHEW 28:18–20) The Great Commission calls us to ‘Go into all the world’ and whichever way you look at it that is a call to journey, sometimes far, more often near. Journeys take many forms and in the local context that may mean preparing for a new journey, perhaps a journey beyond our 13
comfort zone and cultural context, learning how to navigate afresh, taking new steps, in new places. Pray for the missional journey of your corps or local context.
ffWEDNESDAY 16 OCTOBER – …WHAT DO YOU SEE? (JEREMIAH 1:11-12) God is not limited to our definition of mission; he is already out there redefining it. Part of the challenge of reviewing local mission is to try and identify what God is already doing and join in. That not only means having an awareness of God at work in the world but also understanding how he intends his apostles, prophets, evangelists, teachers and shepherds (Ephesians 4) to get involved. Pray for the inward and outward journey of rediscovering who God is calling us to be in the local context.
ffTHURSDAY 17 OCTOBER – ‘MISSION AND MOVEMENT ARE TWO SIDES OF THE SAME COIN’ The above quote from Commissioner James Knaggs (R) helps us to understand whether we are being missional or not. Where is the movement that evidences that mission is really taking place? Movement requires us to get up, it takes us forwards, outwards and ultimately upwards. It crosses languages, borders and cultural differences as we journey with and towards God. Pray for a fresh revelation of the need for movement in our local mission.
ffFRIDAY 18 OCTOBER – PROVERBS 16:9 The journey of mission isn’t a task to be completed, rather it is a whole-life commitment to a journey with and towards God. Accepting Jesus therefore always requires us to journey in our everyday. We may make good plans for ourselves, our corps and our communities, but ultimately it is God who determines the steps, step by step, day by day. Pray for a consciousness of God’s ‘steps’ for those who are involved in evaluating local mission, recording the story and making plans.
ffSATURDAY 19 OCTOBER – TO BE LIKE JESUS ‘God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son’ (Romans 8:29 The Message). The destination and the aim is Jesus – to be like him. This means no longer conforming to the world but accepting our place in his family, growing in holiness and encouraging others to join the journey. Pray for the journey of saving souls, growing saints and serving suffering humanity in your own community. 14
LEADERSHIP FOCUS PPCOLONEL DEBBIE GRAVES, TERRITORIAL SECRETARY FOR LEADER DEVELOPMENT ffSUNDAY 20 OCTOBER ‘May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it’ (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24). A leader’s hope is in God’s faithfulness. Pray for wisdom and discernment in your leadership.
ffMONDAY 21 OCTOBER ‘Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity’ (1 Timothy 4:12). If you are young, pray for boldness and direction in the name of Christ Jesus! If you are not so young, pray for those who are, that they will discern the will of Christ in their lives.
ffTUESDAY 22 OCTOBER ‘For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers’ (Proverbs 11:14). Pray for government leaders, asking God to give them wisdom, accountability and clear direction.
ffWEDNESDAY 23 OCTOBER ‘I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you’ (Psalm 32:8). Pray for direction in your own life, and be aware of God’s wisdom and wise counsel.
ffTHURSDAY 24 OCTOBER ‘Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others’ (Philippians 2:3-4). Pray for humility in Christ. A good leader always considers others.
ffFRIDAY 25 OCTOBER ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations’ (Jeremiah 1:5). Is God calling you into some form of leadership? A Salvation Army officer or envoy, a local officer, a civic leader, a leader in your workplace? Pray for clarity of calling from God, for he has created you for a purpose. 15
ffSATURDAY 26 OCTOBER ‘Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith’ (Hebrews 13:7). Pray for your corps officers, centre managers or divisional/territorial leaders, that they would receive a fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit upon their lives and the lives of their families.
SCRIPTURE FOCUS PPMAJOR TRACEY PALMER, TRAINING PRINCIPAL (SRI LANKA TERRITORY) ``SETTING THE SCENE On Easter Sunday 2019 bomb blasts killed hundreds of people in churches and hotels in Sri Lanka. After ten years of peace at the conclusion of the civil war, some of the joy and comfort of life left the country that day. As I write, monsoon rain is heavy and unrelenting, with crashes of thunder and streaks of lightning. However, it does bring welcoming cooler days. As you follow the prayers for this week, pray also for Sri Lanka – for refreshment, rest and healing.
ffSUNDAY 27 OCTOBER – ‘LET MY TEACHING FALL LIKE RAIN…’ (DEUTERONOMY 32:2) We need healing. Unexpected events can cause shock and leave us dry in desert places, and we need the cooling rain again. Ask for the dew of God’s presence to settle on the tender shoots of growth in your life. Think also of where we get our teaching. What speaks into our lives – is it healthy? Pray for a spirit of discernment.
ffMONDAY 28 OCTOBER – ‘YOU DRENCH THE PLOUGHED GROUND WITH RAIN…’ (PSALM 65:10 NLT) Fear can make us hard and brittle as we protect ourselves and those we love with defensive walls. Pray to be soaked in God’s love. Pray for our communities, for rain to come to the hard, dry places. Pray for the Church all over the world, that we don’t become governed by a spirit of fear.
ffTUESDAY 29 OCTOBER – ‘THEY BUILT A FIRE AND WELCOMED US ALL BECAUSE IT WAS RAINING…’ (ACTS 28:2) Paul was shipwrecked and cold on a journey as a prisoner and received kindness and warmth from the islanders on Malta. Pray 16
for the Holy Spirit to kindle fires in people’s lives. How can we bring kindness, love and shelter into the lives of those who have no choice about the journeys they make?
ffWEDNESDAY 30 OCTOBER – ‘THE RAIN CAME DOWN, AND THE STREAMS ROSE… YET IT [THE HOUSE] DID NOT FALL’ (MATTHEW 7:25) Pray for firm foundations. So often faith can be seen as something one inherits rather than something that one accepts personally. Faith needs to be strong for when the winds blow and disaster strikes. For many, being a Christian is a matter of life or death. Pray that we can cling to the rock.
ffTHURSDAY 31 OCTOBER – ‘…THERE WILL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING’ (EZEKIEL 34:26) We need revival – not just mercy drops, but showers. Christian belief may seem outdated or eccentric, either through pluralism in religion or due to the effects of postmodernism. How does the Church stand tall and proclaim the blessings of God? Through revival, and it begins in the individual heart. Pray for showers of blessing which will in turn bless the world.
NOVEMBER ffFRIDAY 1 NOVEMBER – ‘MAY HE BE LIKE RAIN THAT FALLS ON THE MOWN GRASS…’ (PSALM 72:6 ESV) Do you like the fragrance of a freshly mown lawn or the freshness of the watered earth? Pray that we experience God with all our senses – that we know true refreshment and rest. How can we replicate that feeling in our daily lives? What do we need to do to know true refreshment?
ffSATURDAY 2 NOVEMBER – ‘DRIP DOWN, O HEAVENS, FROM ABOVE…’ (ISAIAH 45:8 NASB) The promise we have from God is that he is in control. His name is great and he is the Creator. Spend some time praising God for his goodness and his righteousness. We stand in him, not ourselves. Enjoy the praise, dance in the rain and give God the glory! 17
COMMUNICATIONS FOCUS PPCOMMUNICATIONS SERVICE, THQ ``SETTING THE SCENE Jesus was the ultimate communicator. He captured people’s attention through the many stories and parables he told. His good news continues to bring hope and transformation to every situation. As Christmas approaches, the busiest time of the year for many of the units within the Communications Service, pray that the officers and employees will have the wisdom, creativity and stamina to make the most of the opportunities throughout the season.
ffSUNDAY 3 NOVEMBER – PR AND COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE (ROMANS 10:14) From working with external media and developing content for the territorial website and social media pages, to managing the intranet for employees and officers, the PR and Comms team recognises the responsibility it has to promote and engage people with The Salvation Army. Pray especially as the team responds to the significant number of people who reach out for practical support via social media at Christmas.
ffMONDAY 4 NOVEMBER – KIDS ALIVE! (MARK 10:13–16) Kids Alive! aims to encourage children to be active and healthy in all aspects of life – spiritually, mentally and physically. Pray for the Kids Alive! team as it seeks to engage with the children of the territory – supporting them through the challenges that they encounter every day and helping them to deepen their relationship with Jesus.
ffTUESDAY 5 NOVEMBER – PUBLIC AFFAIRS UNIT (PROVERBS 31:8-9) The Salvation Army continues to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Pray that the Public Affairs and Social Policy Unit will be able to influence politicians and officials on behalf of people who are experiencing disadvantage – through visits, lobbying and campaigning.
ffWEDNESDAY 6 NOVEMBER – THE WAR CRY (MARK 16:15) Pray that more people will have the opportunity to receive the gospel message in a way that connects with them through the 18
pages of The War Cry. Pray also for the heralds (people who sell The War Cry each week on the streets, in pubs and other places) already spreading the good news and for the positive relationships they build for Christ.
ffTHURSDAY 7 NOVEMBER – INTERNATIONAL HERITAGE CENTRE The International Heritage Centre is based at the William Booth College. There is much to learn from the stories of the giants upon whose shoulders we stand. Lord, you are the Ancient of Days - eternal, the same yesterday, today and forever. Help me to remember and give thanks for your goodness in days gone by. Be with and strengthen me this day. Take my fears and give me hope for future days.
ffFRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER – MARKETING AND FUNDRAISING DEPARTMENT The Marketing and Fundraising team help to promote awareness of The Salvation Army and raise vital funds for its ongoing work. Dear Lord, we pray that the Army will always be recognised in a positive light. Guide us with the materials and messages we produce, so that the public will want to give to this very worthwhile cause. Amen
ffSATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER – SALVATIONIST Pray for the team working on Salvationist week in week out. Pray also for the many people who contribute with articles, Bible studies, reviews – and that Salvationist would continue to be a publication that readers find inspiring and helpful in their journey of faith.
CHAPLAINCY FOCUS PPCAPTAIN NICK HANOVER, OFFICER ON SECONDMENT WITH THE ROYAL AIR FORCE ffSUNDAY 10 NOVEMBER – DEPLOYMENT (ISAIAH 41:10) Pray for wisdom for those preparing practically and mentally for deployment. Pray that family and friends at home would not feel overwhelmed by their circumstances or feel lonely. Pray for safety for those on operational deployments. Thank God for the opportunities, challenges and changes for good that deployment can bring. 19
ffMONDAY 11 NOVEMBER – REMEMBRANCE DAY (PSALM 34:14) Pray for peace, forgiveness and reconciliation between the nations. Pray for those who have lost loved ones in wars; for those who face danger and take risks for peace; for all those, especially children, caught up in current conflicts and for refugees and all those in need of aid. Pray that leaders and governments will persistently and courageously pursue and seek peace.
ffTUESDAY 12 NOVEMBER – MENTAL HEALTH (MATTHEW 11:28-29) Pray for the mental health of service personnel and their families and for healing of any unseen wounds. Pray for the Church to be wise and compassionate in supporting ex-servicemen and women. Pray for veterans’ support organisations (Royal British Legion and SSAFA) as they seek to help those who are struggling to adjust to life after their service.
ffWEDNESDAY 13 NOVEMBER – CHAPLAINS (EPHESIANS 4:1-2) Pray that RAF chaplains will be faithful and effective in ‘prayer, presence and proclamation’. Pray for humility and gentleness in their relationships with those they serve alongside. Pray that chaplains would be bold and faithful witnesses in the workplace. Thank God for each new opportunity that presents itself with every posting, to build new relationships and live out God’s grace.
PPMAJOR LINDA PERKIN, CHAPLAIN AT GATWICK AIRPORT ffTHURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER – JOHN 4:1-4 Most of us travel at some time in our lives. Approximately 46 million people pass through Gatwick Airport every year! The journey may be short or long. Jesus travelled from Judea to Galilee. He was on a journey and passed through Samaria. Spiritually we are also on a journey, each one so different from the other. Pray for the people you know who are on a difficult part of their journey right now.
ffFRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER – JOHN 4:6-8 Travelling can be exhausting. At the airport sometimes people have to wait for hours to continue the next part of their journey. They often sleep on chairs or even on the floor to recover! On our spiritual journey we need to rest in the Lord, to know his presence with us. Ask God to refresh you both physically and spiritually today, just as Jesus did. 20
ffSATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER - JOHN 4:7-10 When we are on a journey we never know who we are going to meet on the way. Airport chaplains around the country have the privilege of talking to hundreds of people every day. As Jesus was resting, a Samaritan woman came to the well and there was a conversation between the two. Thank God for the people we have met on our journeys – especially those who have helped us in our walk of faith.
CHRISTMAS MISSION FOCUS PPMAJOR GILLIAN MILLER, PRAYER NETWORK ``SETTING THE SCENE As Christmas approaches, The Salvation Army has the privilege to serve the community in a unique way through toy appeals, Christmas lunches, carolling and so much more. One of these expressions is Mission Romania. Right now, two vehicles are on route to Romania from The Salvation Army in the UKI loaded with gift-filled shoeboxes for hundreds of children.
(Follow the Mission Team Journey on Facebook: Mission Romania)
ffSUNDAY 17 NOVEMBER – REACHING OUT IN LOVE (ROMANS 12:9-13) Father God, sometimes our resources seem little, and yet you enable us to give to others with compassion. For the children in Romania particularly, who have nothing much to call their own, we ask you to bless the gifts that are on the way to them. May the boxes be received with happiness and may the love that has gone into making them be evident. Amen.
ffMONDAY 18 NOVEMBER – RECOGNISING ACTIONS OF LOVE (MATTHEW 18:2-6) Loving Lord, we give thanks for the loving kindness of hundreds of donors who have willingly contributed gifts to Mission Romania, and to so many others who give of their time and resources in the leadup to Christmas. May these gifts of love be used to show your love in action to those who have so little. Amen.
ffTUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER – REJOICING AS WE GIVE (MATTHEW 25:40) Generous Father, you call us to remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves. As we have opportunities to take part in Christmas 21
toy appeals this year, give us generous hearts as we respond. As we purchase our gifts, help us to imagine we are giving to the child Jesus. Amen.
ffWEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER – REMEMBERING GOD’S GOODNESS (PSALM 107:1) Father of goodness, I stand humbly in your presence and give thanks for your hand on my life. Show me how I can make a difference to someone during this season of giving. Open my eyes to see the needs of those around me and use me to be a blessing. Amen. Look out today for charity collections, calls for help from food banks or community projects. Pray that God will show you what you can get involved with.
ffTHURSDAY 21 NOVEMBER – A ROYAL FAMILY (1 PETER 2:9) Prince of Peace, we worship you. Touch our hearts with peace especially as the busy Christmas season approaches so we have time to acknowledge your royal presence with us. Be in every event that is organised by your Church and your people to celebrate Jesus’ birth. Amen. Think of someone you could invite to an event this Christmas, and pray God will give you the opportunity to extend an invitation and that it will be accepted.
ffFRIDAY 22 NOVEMBER – RETURNING HOME (PHILIPPIANS 2:13-15) Today the Mission Romania team will start their three-day journey home, with empty vehicles and the joy of mission accomplished. For the officers in Romania, the gifts will provide a much-needed bank of resources they can distribute, not only at Christmas but throughout the year. Loving Father, we bring our fellow officers and Salvationists in Romania to you right now. Thank you for their love for the people they serve. Keep the mission team safe as they return home. Amen.
ffSATURDAY 23 NOVEMBER – REFLECTING ON THIS WEEK (LUKE 1:49) Father God, our prayers and thoughts this week have been focused on not only giving to others but also on serving others in your name. We have journeyed to Romania with the mission team and we have thought about our own mission just where we are. Thank you for guiding us and bless our giving. Amen. 22
DIVISIONAL PRAYER FOCUS (SOUTH LONDON DIVISION) PPMAJOR IAN WOODGATE, DIVISIONAL OFFICER FOR LEADER DEVELOPMENT AND PRAYER CO-ORDINATOR ``CONTEXT The South London Division’s strategy is founded on Psalm 23 and is a reflection on the Shepherd and the green pastures that are before us. Each day this week focuses on the divisional vision and values.
ffSUNDAY 24 NOVEMBER - HEALTHY LEADERS Pray for the active and retired officers, envoys, pioneer workers, local officers and applicants for officership within the division. Thank God for every one of these people who are precious to him. Pray that God will continue to raise up new leaders through the Growing Leaders and Transformers programmes. Pray for wisdom for Divisional Commander Major Val Mylechreest as she leads people forward.
ffMONDAY 25 NOVEMBER – HOLISTIC MISSION God is breathing his Spirit into the mission and ministry people are engaged in each day. Pray for the many initiatives that seek to support people holistically, such as the refugee sponsorship projects, community choirs, charity and coffee shops, soft play and café churches. Ask God to bless the work of the Mission Enablers Major Susan Woodgate and Captain Kevin Stanbury, Youth Specialist Rachel Gash and regional specialists.
ffTUESDAY 26 NOVEMBER – HELPFUL STRUCTURES Pray that God will strengthen the DHQ team for the continued implementation of the divisional strategy. Pray also for the administration team at DHQ and for the support given in the areas of finance, property and human resources within the service centre and partnerships with William Booth College and THQ.
ffWEDNESDAY 27 NOVEMBER – LOVING FELLOWSHIPS The love of God has been lavished on us so that we can be called his children. Pray that all corps, centres and fresh expressions in the division would know the power of the love of Christ, transforming all 23
they are and all they do. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance as many corps explore what it is to be hospitable and accepting, inclusive of everyone.
ffTHURSDAY 28 NOVEMBER – OUTWARD FOCUS There are so many people in our various communities who do not know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. Pray for wisdom and discernment in serving local communities faithfully, seeking to understand God’s will and purposes for this time. Pray for pioneering hearts.
ffFRIDAY 29 NOVEMBER – UPWARD PERSPECTIVE We can do nothing without seeking first God’s Kingdom and relying on the anointing and empowering of the Holy Spirit. Pray that God, as Father, Son and Holy Spirit, would be the focus, the One to whom people look and trust, so they serve under his authority and direction alone. Pray for protection from busyness and the ability to keep focused.
ffSATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER – DEEPENING RELATIONSHIPS Relationships are broken and people are hurting throughout our communities. Pray that God would use his Church, his Army, to build genuine and sincere relationships with others and that healing and restoration will be experienced. Pray for local borough and council leaders and community partnerships.
DECEMBER ADVENT FOCUS PPCOMMISSIONER MARGARET SUTHERLAND ffSUNDAY 1 DECEMBER Today is the first Sunday in Advent. Advent is about a coming - an arrival. It is a time of hope, expectancy, preparation, excitement, anticipation. Lord, in the midst of the busyness of this month, help me not to lose sight of you. Grant me a fresh revelation of your purposes for me and for the world. Amen. 24
ffMONDAY 2 DECEMBER It all started so well (Genesis 1:31). Sadly, that state of affairs did not last long. But God has a plan! That plan involves the redemption of the world made possible through the coming of Jesus as a human being (Titus 2:11), and will climax in his second coming when there will be a new Heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1). Thank God for his master plan.
ffTUESDAY 3 DECEMBER One of the big themes of Scripture is hope. Usually to hope for something means that we wish it would happen but we are uncertain whether it will. We can be absolutely sure that when we put our hope in God, we will not be disappointed (Romans 5:1-5). Lord, help me to trust more fully in your loving purposes. Amen.
ffWEDNESDAY 4 DECEMBER The writer to the Hebrews wrote: ‘Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see’ (Hebrews 11:1). What are some of the things we hope for and are certain of as Christians? List some of them and thank God for them.
ffTHURSDAY 5 DECEMBER The opposite of hope is despair. Pray for someone you know who is going through a difficult time and is tempted to despair. Jesus is the God of hope (Romans 15:13). Lord, where there is despair, may we bring hope. Amen.
ffFRIDAY 6 DECEMBER We live in a broken world and in a society which in many ways has turned its back on God. Think of some of the ways in which our world is broken. Pray for peace and healing, remembering the words of Jesus: ‘In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world’ (John 16:33). We should not despair – Jesus has the final word.
ffSATURDAY 7 DECEMBER God’s master plan began to be revealed very soon after the sin of Adam and Eve. God said to the serpent, ‘I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel’ (Genesis 3:15). Thank you, Lord, that right from the beginning you planned to send Jesus to destroy every evil power and to make it possible for the relationship between God and humankind to be restored. Amen. 25
ffSUNDAY 8 DECEMBER Abraham was given a promise that from him would come a descendant who would change the world (Genesis 12:2,3). He cannot have imagined what that would look like or how long it would take. God’s timing is not like ours (2 Peter 3:8,9). Lord, as we reflect on your promises, give us patience to wait and encouragement to do our part in bringing in the Kingdom. Amen.
ffMONDAY 9 DECEMBER Isaiah 9:6,7 is a beautiful prophecy about the birth of Jesus. This and other prophecies led to the belief that a Messiah (anointed one) would come to save God’s people. Use those verses from Isaiah as a basis for your own prayer of worship and praise.
ffTUESDAY 10 DECEMBER Mary’s reaction on being told she will give birth to the Messiah is amazing. Her song of praise – the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) – is still sung throughout the world. Read it now and use it as a basis for your own prayer.
ffWEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER The birth of John the Baptist and his subsequent ministry generated considerable excitement. There had been no words of prophecy for many years. Was this the forerunner of the Messiah? Was the Messiah on his way? Two thousand years have passed since Jesus was seen in human form. Lord, in our day, as we celebrate your coming to earth, help us not to lose the sense of joyful anticipation of your coming again. Amen.
ffTHURSDAY 12 DECEMBER John the Baptist’s message included a call to repentance – the people needed to do their part in preparing themselves for the coming Messiah. And their repentance needed to be seen in their actions. Lord, as we wait for you today, please show us anything for which we need to repent. Show us also anything we need to do to put things right. Thank you that you are always ready to forgive and give us a fresh start. Amen.
ffFRIDAY 13 DECEMBER John’s role was to prepare the way for the coming of Jesus. Think of all the activities you are involved in as you prepare for Christmas. How can you positively use these to prepare the way for Jesus? Lord, in all I think or do or say, may I be a true reflection of Jesus. Amen. 26
ffSATURDAY 14 DECEMBER In spite of the message of the prophets, the birth of Jesus happened in such an unexpected way that few people noticed it or recognised what was happening. Lord, in all the busyness of Christmas preparations, may we not be too busy to notice your coming – maybe in unexpected ways. Help us to be aware of how we can be Jesus to others, and to recognise where we can see Jesus in others. Amen.
ffSUNDAY 15 DECEMBER There is a note of joy throughout the Christmas story – Elizabeth and Zechariah, Mary and Joseph, angels, shepherds, wise men, Simeon, Anna. ‘Joy to the world! The Lord is come; Let earth receive her King, Let every heart prepare him room And Heaven and nature sing’ (SASB 113). Amen! Choose a song of praise to sing or make your own prayer of praise and joy.
ffMONDAY 16 DECEMBER Jesus lived, died, rose from the dead and ascended into Heaven. His disciples rejoiced in the knowledge that he was with them for ever through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. A new age started with the birth of the Church. Give thanks for the world-wide Church today, in all its multi-faceted manifestations. Pray God’s blessing on what the churches in your area are doing to serve others and proclaim the true Christmas message in word and deed.
ffTUESDAY 17 DECEMBER The birth and growth of the Church is not the end of the story. Jesus himself spoke of his coming again. Matthew 24:30,31 is just one example. The book of Revelation gives a much bigger picture of Jesus coming in power and glory (Revelation 1:12-18). This time, the whole world will see and recognise him. Use Philippians 2:6-11 as a basis for your prayers today.
ffWEDNESDAY 18 DECEMBER The forces of evil were defeated at Calvary, but the final victory will happen with the second coming of Jesus. The book of Revelation describes this victory and culminates in the beautiful vision of a new world where all will be at peace (Revelation 21). Lord, we long for your coming, when all suffering and pain will be banished, and all will be well. ‘Amen. Come, Lord Jesus’ (Revelation 22:20).
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ffTHURSDAY 19 DECEMBER Today we are between the ‘Now’ of Jesus’ presence with us through his Spirit and the ‘Not yet’ of the final victory over evil. The challenge is to live with the ‘big picture’ in mind, while not overly focusing on it. It was said of King Hezekiah that ‘He held fast to the Lord and did not stop following him’ (2 Kings 18:6). Lord, in the tumultuous times in which we live, where there is so much uncertainty and unrest, may we hold fast to you, and follow you closely each day. Amen.
ffFRIDAY 20 DECEMBER The run-up to Christmas can be very busy, but do we always get our priorities right? Take some time today to talk to the Lord about your own walk with him. Is he truly Lord of your life? Is he at the centre of all you do? Or have you been distracted by other things? If you knew Jesus was coming tomorrow, what difference would it make?
ffSATURDAY 21 DECEMBER One of the things Scripture instructs us to do is to ‘watch’ - to stay awake and be alert. One of the ways of doing this is to look for opportunities to engage people in conversation and be alert to the promptings of the Spirit. Lord, help me to stay in tune with you throughout this day, so that I don’t miss any opportunity to speak for you. Amen.
ffSUNDAY 22 DECEMBER ‘Prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed…. be holy’ (1 Peter 1:13,15 NLT). Use these words as a basis for your own prayer.
ffMONDAY 23 DECEMBER Even as Christmas Day gets closer, with all its excitement and joy, there are many places where there is no joy, no hope – places that are dark with evil in all its manifestations. Pray that the light of Christ will break through and bring cleansing and healing. There are people for whom Christmas is something they dread. Pray that they will know the love of God.
ffTUESDAY 24 DECEMBER Jesus declared, ‘I am the light of the world’ (John 8:12). But so many people are walking in darkness. Pray for someone you know who needs the light of life. And in the words of SASB 220, we pray: ‘Help us bring light to this world that we might speed your return.’ 28
ffWEDNESDAY 25 DECEMBER – CHRISTMAS DAY Today, Lord, our hearts are full of thankfulness and joy as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. We praise you for his willingness to lay aside his majesty and to live as one of us, just so that we can be saved from sin and its consequences. We rejoice also in the promise that Christ will come again in power and glory, and ‘All shall be well in his Kingdom of peace’ (SASB 275). Hallelujah!
END OF YEAR FOCUS PPMAJOR GILLIAN MILLER, PRAYER NETWORK ffTHURSDAY 26 DECEMBER – ‘GOOD KING WENCESLAS LOOKED OUT, ON THE FEAST OF STEPHEN…’ Lord, as we are reminded of Stephen, the martyr, we think of other Christians who are persecuted because of their beliefs. O Lord, we pray that if we are ever called to suffer for our faith, we would be strong enough to stand firm. Strengthen our resolve today to be determined to fight to the end for what we know is true. Amen.
ffFRIDAY 27 DECEMBER – ‘WHEN A POOR MAN CAME IN SIGHT, GATHERING WINTER FUEL…’ O Lord, the sight of the poor often washes over us. We see people begging on the streets and lying in shop doorways and just walk by. Yet quite often our lack of response causes us pain because we know we need to do something. Show me what I need to be doing in response to the poverty I see around me. Amen.
ffSATURDAY 28 DECEMBER – ‘YONDER PEASANT, WHO IS HE?’ Thank you, Father, that you know each and every one of your children. You don’t need to ask ‘Who is he/she?’ You know everything about us and our circumstances. You know our motivation and our responses to the challenges of life. Thank you that you know me personally, you know my name and every detail of my life. Amen.
ffSUNDAY 29 DECEMBER – ‘BRING ME FLESH AND BRING ME WINE, BRING ME PINE LOGS HITHER…’ The response of King Wenceslas to the poor man is heartwarming. He gives food and charitable aid to the poor. How that story is replicated 29
over and over again by ordinary people responding to human need! Thank you, Lord, for people who have helped me this year – those who have prayed for me, visited me, sent me gifts and messages. Bless them today. Amen.
ffMONDAY 30 DECEMBER – ‘IN HIS MASTER’S STEPS HE TROD WHERE THE SNOW LAY DINTED…’ Father, I praise you because you have walked with me this past year. You have gone ahead of me and made the footprints for me to follow when it’s been hard to take the next step forward. Thank you for every evidence of your guidance and love in my life and for the assurance that I am never alone. As I prepare for 2020 I know I can follow whatever you have planned for me. Amen.
ffTUESDAY 31 DECEMBER – ‘THEREFORE, CHRISTIAN MEN, BE SURE… YE WHO NOW WILL BLESS THE POOR SHALL YOURSELVES FIND BLESSING.’ On this last day of 2019, thank God for his blessings and for the times you have been able to bless others in some way. Lord, thank you for giving me more than enough so I can share. And when my resources have been low, thank you for those who have blessed me with kindness. As I enter into 2020 I do so with gratitude and with the hope that I can be a blessing to someone every day. Amen.
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The Salvation Army, SA Prayer Network, 101 Newington Causeway, London, SE1 6BN 020 7369 4539 salvationarmy.org.uk/prayer-network facebook.com/saukprayerpage saprayernetwork@salvationarmy.org.uk The Salvation Army is a Church and registered Charity in England and Wales (214779), Scotland (SC009359) and the Republic of Ireland (CHY6399)