of Christians in Action - First Baptist Church of Glenarden

Transcription

F I R S T B A PTIST CHURCH OF GLENARDEN
D EVOT I ONAL AND FASTING JOURNAL
ABC
The
s
of Christians in Action
Abiding
Fasting
Believing
Clinging
Denying
Expecting
Giving
Helping
Inspiring
Joining
Keeping Loving Meditating Naming Obtaining Praying
Quitting Resisting Submitting
Valuing Worshiping
Xciting
Teaching
Yielding
PASTOR JOHN K. JENKINS SR.
Uplifting
Zeroing
Table of Contents
Page 4.........................................................................................Overview
Dedication
This book is dedicated to all who desire to live a life of
devotion, surrender and service to our Lord and Savior
Jesus Christ.
Page 5............................................................................. Plan of Salvation
Page 6-10........................................... Information & Resources on Prayer
Page 11-18......................................Information & Resources About Fasting
Page 19-23...............................Background & Purpose of Daily Devotions
Page 24.................................................................. Sample Daily Devotion
Page 25-30............................ Daily Devotional Readings & Prayer Topics
Page 31-34..................................................Christians in Corporate Action
Page 35-41.............................. Daily Devotional Readings & Prayer Topics
Page 42.......................................................Christians in Corporate Action
Page 43-49............................. Daily Devotional Readings & Prayer Topics
Page 50......................................................Christians in Corporate Action
Page 51-56.............................. Daily Devotional Readings & Prayer Topics
Page 57.................................................................... Concluding Thoughts
Page 58...................................................................................Bibliography
Page 59.........................................................................Acknowledgements
The ABCs of– 3Christians
in Action
–
First Baptist Church of Glenarden
Devotional and Fasting Journal
Overview
Plan of Salvation
Romans 3:10 – As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one;
Romans 3:23 – for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
This devotional and fasting journal provides an opportunity to begin
the New Year with an inspirational journey over the next 26 days. As we
corporately examine a small sampling of some of the ABCs of “Christians
in Action,” we pray that you will experience great opportunities for
ministry, spiritual growth, service to others and the strengthening of your
relationship with the Lord.
Fasting is a major component of this devotional book. There are some
who are facing serious trials, dilemmas and struggles. In Matthew 17:21,
we are taught that some issues are only alleviated through the power of
fasting. Many of the FBCG discipleship ministries participate in a fast at
the beginning of each new year, so please know that you are not alone in
this fasting experience!
Also incorporated in this journal are three weekends of corporate
activities, so that the First Baptist family can make this journey together
as “Christians in Action.” At the completion of this book, you will have
gained significant insight into your relationship with God and others.
And as a result, a deeper and more fulfilling relationship with our
wonderful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
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Devotional and Fasting
Journal
Romans 5:12 – Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the
world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because
all sinned–
Romans 5:8 – But God demonstrated His own love toward us in that
while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 6:23 – For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is
eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 10:9-10 – that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus
and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you
will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness and
with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Romans 10:13 – For “whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be
saved.”
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PRAYER
Revelation 8:3 Then another angel, having a
golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He
was given much incense, that he should offer
it with the prayers of all the saints upon the
golden altar which was before the throne.
Prayer is an extremely important and necessary facet of the Christian’s
walk. Prayer is our means of communication with God. He has given us
this vehicle of communication because He longs for relationship with
us. Our relationship and level of intimacy with God is strengthened and
enhanced as we spend quality time in prayer.
Benefits of Prayer
Avenue to Obtain Directions for Life
Jeremiah 42:2-3 … and said to Jeremiah the prophet, ‘Please let our
petition be acceptable to you, and pray for us to the Lord your God for
all this remnant that the Lord your God may show us the way in which
we walk and the thing we should do.’
God Promises to Hear and Answer
Isaiah 65:24 It shall come to pass that before they call, I will answer; and
while they are still speaking, I will hear.
God Promises to Answer and Bring Revelation
Jeremiah 33:3 Call unto me and I will answer and show you great and
mighty things which you do not know.
Alternative to Anxiety
Prayer brings us into the presence of God and in His presence
relationship becomes friendship. Just as we cultivate earthly relationships
by spending time together, we must also cultivate our heavenly friendship
with the Lord by spending time in His presence communing and
communicating in prayer.
Time spent in prayer is time spent with our friend just as the song says:
What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear.
What a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
all because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer.
Lyrics by Joseph Scriven
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Journal
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer
and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to
God and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard
your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Brings Rewards
Matthew 6:6 But when you pray, go into your room, and when you have
shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your
Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
Releases the Healing and Forgiveness of God
2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people who are called by my name shall humble
themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways,
then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
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Helps Overcome Temptation
Luke 22:40 When He came to the place, He said to them, ‘Pray that you
may not enter into temptation.’
The Holy Spirit Aids
Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we
do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself
makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now
He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because
He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
1. Pray at the beginning of your day. Psalm 63
2. Pray throughout your day. Luke 18:1
3. Pray at the end of your day. Matthew 14:23
4. Pray sincerely from your heart. Matthew 6:7
5. Pray privately. Matthew 6:6
Brings Physical and Spiritual Healing
6. Pray as a lifestyle. 1 Thessalonians 5:17
James 5:16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one
another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a
righteous man avails much.
7. Pray expecting an answer. Jeremiah 33:3
Provides POWER
Mathew 7:7-8 Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find;
knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and
he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
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Tips for a Better Prayer Life
ABCDEF
GHIJKLM
NOP
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Journal
8. Pray the Word of God. Hebrews 4:12; Jeremiah 1:12
9. Pray with your whole heart. Jeremiah 29:13
10.Pray with faith. Mark 11:24
11.Pray for others. Ephesians 6:18
12.Pray and then obey. 1 John 3:22
13.Pray with a clean heart. 1 John 1:9
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Additional Resources on Prayer
Prayer: Mode, Method and Means by Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr. Bible Study
Definition of Prayer by Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr. Bible Study
Models of Prayer: The Lord’s Prayer by Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr. Bible Study
Models of Prayer Part 2 by Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr. Bible Study
E. M. Bounds On Prayer by E.M. Bounds
Andrew Murray: With Christ in the School of Prayer by Andrew Murray
Praying the Lord’s Prayer for Spiritual Breakthrough by Elmer L. Town
Lord Teach Me to Pray in 28 Days by Kay Arthur
Praying God’s Word by Beth Moore
Intercessory Prayer by C. Peter Wagner
Beyond the Veil by Alice Smith
The Power of Praying by Stormie Omartian
The Power of a Praying Husband by Stormie Omartian
The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian
FASTING
Joel 1:14 Consecrate a fast, call a sacred
assembly; gather the elders and all the
inhabitants of the land into the house of the
LORD your God, and cry out to the LORD.
To fast is to purposefully and voluntarily abstain from a pleasurable
activity. In Scripture, fasting is almost always linked to abstaining from
food. However, there are other ways to fast as well. Anything that can be
given up temporarily in order to focus on and grow closer to God can be
considered a fast. Some may choose to abstain from sweets, television, the
Internet and certain types of foods or activities.
This spiritual discipline is effective in focusing our attention away
from the flesh and toward God. Fasting is also an effective response to
challenging physical or emotional situations, circumstances, relationships
and needs.
Fasting should be limited to a set time (1 Corinthians 7:5), especially
when the fasting is from food. Some may choose to fast from sun up to
sun down. Please Note: You should not begin a fast from food, medicines or
prescribed treatments without first consulting your personal physician. Some
people may not be able to physically fast from food, but everyone can
temporarily give up something in order to draw closer to God.
The Power of a Praying Parent by Stormie Omartian
The Power of a Praying Kid by Stormie Omartian
The Power of a Praying Teen by Stormie Omartian
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The Benefits of Fasting
Prepares the Penitent Heart
Joel 2:12-13 ‘Now, therefore,’ says the LORD, ‘Turn to Me with all your
heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning’… So rend your
heart, and not your garments; return to the LORD your God, for He is
gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents
from doing harm.
Adds Power for Spiritual Service
Matthew 17:21 However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and
fasting.
Aids in Pursuing God
Daniel 9:3 Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by
prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth and ashes.
Aids in Focusing on God
Joel 2:12 ‘Now, therefore,’ says the LORD, ‘Turn to Me with all your
heart, with fasting, with weeping and with mourning.’
Rewarded When Done Discreetly
Mathew 6:16-18 Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites,
with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear
to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But
you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do
not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret
place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
Puts Us in a Posture of Humility
Psalm 35:13 But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was
sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting; and my prayer would return to
my own heart.
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Weapon in Spiritual Warfare
Esther 4:16 Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast
for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and
I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law;
and if I perish, I perish!
Sets the Captives Free
Isaiah 58:6 “Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of
wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free, and
that you break every yoke?”
Ushers in Healing
Isaiah 58:8 Then your light shall break forth like the morning, your
healing shall spring forth speedily, and your righteousness shall go before
you; the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard.
Aids in Receiving Direction
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said,
‘Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have
called them.’
Get Specific Prayers Answered
Ezra 8:23 So we fasted and entreated our God for this, and He answered
our prayer.
Aids in Receiving Revelation
Daniel 9:3, 21-22 Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make
request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth and ashes …
yes, while I was speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen
in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, reached me
about the time of the evening offering. And he informed me, and talked
with me, and said, “O Daniel, I have now come forth to give you skill to
understand.
ABCDEF
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Three Types of fast
Normal Fast
In a normal fast you abstain from all forms of food, but drink water
(Luke 4:1-2, Matthew 4:2-3, Genesis 24:33).
Preparation
1. Build-up your body with good nutrients, be healthy and eat right so that
your body is physically prepared to handle the fast.
Absolute Fast or Total Fast
In an absolute fast you abstain from all food as well as water. This type of fast can
be extremely dangerous if not done properly. Therefore, it is a limited fast and
should last for a maximum of three days (Acts 9:9, Ezra 10:6, Esther 4:16,
Exodus 34:28, Deuteronomy 9:9, Deuteronomy 9:18).
2. Gain the experience of shorter fasts. If you’ve never fasted before, start out
with a short time period. Try missing one or two meals, or a 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
fast.
Partial Fast
In a partial fast certain foods are restricted. For example, you may abstain from
eating sweets, meats, carbohydrates, etc. Or you may only eat certain types of
foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains (Daniel 1:12-15, Daniel 10:2-3,
Matthew 3:4).
Fasting Don’ts
1. Don’t incorporate fasting into your life to use it as a posture of boasting
(Luke 18:9-14).
2. Don’t make fasting a religious formality, having the form of godliness yet
denying its power thereof (2 Timothy 3:5).
3. Don’t exaggerate your appearance to draw attention to the fact that you are
fasting. Instead make your fasting details a secret between you and God
(Matthew 6:18, Isaiah 58:3).
4. Don’t fast for your pleasure or in an attempt to obligate God to do
something (Isaiah 58:3).
5. Don’t make fasting a ceremony or a religious event that is separate from
your relationship with God (Colossians 2:20-23).
6. Don’t fast because you want God to get somebody back or bring judgment
on somebody (Isaiah 58:4).
7. Don’t fast longer than three days without water.
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Physical Aspects of Fasting
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Journal
3. What to expect during an extended fast
a. The first few days are the hardest
b. During days one to three your body uses up its food reserves
c. Your tongue will become covered with a white coating
d. You may develop an unpleasant odor
e. You may experience physical weakness
f. After a few days your bowels will be affected
4. End the fast properly, especially during an extended fast. This is critical so
you don’t hurt yourself.
a. Your stomach has shrunk. You must begin eating small portions
of easily digested foods such as fruits, vegetables and juices.
b. The longer you fast, your digestive organs go to sleep and you
have to gently wake them up.
c. Rest as much as possible to give your body a chance to get reactivated.
Physical effects you may experience while fasting
• Hunger pains
• Coldness
• Bad Breath
• Changes in elimination (either diarrhea or constipation)
• Light headedness
• Changes in sleeping and dreaming
• Headaches, stomach aches, body aches
• Dizziness
• White coated tongue
• Other minor fasting discomforts
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Five Stages of an Extended Fast
Stage 1
Your hunger pains are the hardest. During days one to three your body
uses up its food reserves.
Stage 2
Between days two and six your hunger begins to diminish. You may
psychologically have an appetite, but in reality your body is not
experiencing strong hunger pains. You may encounter headaches and a
lack of energy, so you need extra rest and extra sleep during this stage.
Stage 3
White coating covers your mouth, your urine may be dark and have a
foul smell and you may experience vomiting and nausea. You may have
an unpleasant body odor. During this stage you are eliminating toxins
that have built up in your body.
Stage 4
Your normal hunger returns.
Stage 5
If the fast is not broken at this point starvation begins.
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Journal
Tips on Fasting
1. Everyone should consult their physician prior to beginning a fast.
Those who are under a physicians care, on medications, currently ill or
have a history of eating disorders must be especially careful.
2. When you are ready to begin your fast do not gorge yourself with
one last big feast of food. Instead begin to eat smaller meals as you
approach the beginning of your time of fasting to signal to your mind
and body that less food is acceptable.
3. When the designated time of fasting is completed, it is important to
transition out of the fast with care. You must end your fast gradually.
Rushing into a diet of solid foods following a fast can produce serious
side effects.
4. When the desire for the thing you are fasting from rises up to tempt
you, recognize that this is the will of the flesh opposing the will of the
spirit. You should resist the temptation through prayer, praises to God
and meditation in His Word.
5. Recognize that as you spend time seeking to grow closer to the Lord,
the enemy will attempt to attack, discourage and defeat you. When
you sense this happening, immediately go to God in prayer and
ask Him to strengthen and protect you as you face difficulties and
temptations.
6. Do not make your fast a time of simply not eating or not participating
in some pleasurable activity. Instead, make your fast a time of focusing
on God.
7. Fast as unto the Lord. Make your fast a form of worship and present it
as a love offering to Him (Zechariah 7:5, Acts 13:2).
8. As well as consultation from your physician, seek the guidance of the
Holy Spirit when deciding which type of fast you should undertake.
He will guide you in understanding which type of fast is best for you.
in Action
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Additional Resources on Fasting
Fasting by Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr. Bible Study
A Hunger for God by John Piper
Prayer and Fasting by Dr. Kingsley A. Fletcher
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Psalm 5:3 My voice You shall hear in the
morning, O LORD; in the morning I will
direct it to You, and I will look up.
The Tongue Fast: 21 Days to Glorifying Speech by Deborah Smith Pegues
Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough: A Guide to Nine Biblical Fasts by Elmer
L. Towns
Tony Evans Speaks Out on Fasting by Tony Evans
The Power of Prayer and Fasting: 21 Days That Can Change Your Life by
Marilyn Hickey
The Hidden Power of Prayer & Fasting by Mahesh Chavda
There are many benefits in the discipline of rising early each day and
spending time alone with God. Whether we are struggling in a particular
area of life or just want to know God more intimately, the answer can
be found while we spend time alone with Him quietly reading and
meditating on His Word.
Daily exposing ourselves to the principles and promises found in God’s
Word will challenge us to change, enhance our ability to excel in wisdom
and understanding and provide us with the opportunity to learn more
about God and His character.
Additionally, we can find direction, clear instruction for life and a place
of peace and quiet rest as we consistently spend time in His presence
meditating on His Word. It is our “Daily Bread” (Matthew 6:11).
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in Action
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The Benefits of Daily
Devotions
A Transformed Life
Gives Guidance for Life
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Brings Understanding
Psalm 119:130 The entrance of Your words gives light; It gives
understanding to the simple.
Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be
transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is
that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Aids in Spiritual Growth
Wisdom and Understanding
Gives Hope
Proverbs 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come
knowledge and understanding;
Preserves Life
Psalm 1:2-3 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law
he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers
of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not
wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.
1 Peter 2:2 … as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that
you may grow thereby,
Romans 15:4 For whatever things were written before were written for
our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures
might have hope.
Equips for Good Works
2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly
equipped for every good work.
Brings Success
Joshua 1:8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth,
but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do
according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way
prosperous, and then you will have good success.
Builds Faith
Romans 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word
of God.
Purifies Our Way
Psalm 119:9 How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed
according to Your word.
Keeps From Sin
Psalm 119:11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin
against You.
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Journal
ABCD
in Action
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Tips for a Better Devotional
Life
1. Jesus provided the best example of spending quality time with God
through His early morning devotions (Mark 1:35). If you are not able
to do so in the morning, try having devotions at a scheduled mealtime.
Additional Resources on
Devotion
“Are You Listening?” by Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr. Bible Study
My Utmost For Highest by Oswald Chambers
2. Schedule 15 – 30 minutes each day for your devotionals.
3. Choose a passage of Scripture to focus on or use a devotional guide to
help you have a systematic way of spending time with God.
4. Always have available a Bible, pen, highlighter and a note pad. These
items will be used to jot down what the Holy Spirit may say to you or
to mark your Bible so you can remember which passage of Scripture
spoke to you during your study.
5. Have an additional note pad available to jot down ideas or thoughts
that may distract your mind from the study of God’s Word and your
devotional period.
6. Always pray before you begin and at the end of your devotional time.
Ask God to help you become disciplined in making His Word a
priority; and ask Him to create within your heart a love for studying
His Word.
7. The Holy Spirit is always ready and willing to reveal truth from God’s
Word so let Him be your guide (John 16:13).
Experiencing the Depths of Jesus Christ by Jeanne Guyon
T. D. Jakes Speaks to Men, 3 Volumes in 1 by T. D. Jakes
A Place of Quiet Rest: Finding Intimacy with God Through a Daily
Devotional Life by Janet Leigh De Moss
Lord I Give You This Day by Kay Arthur
Starting Your Day Right by Joyce Meyer
Just Like Jesus Devotional by Max Lucado
God’s Little Devotional Book for Teens by Honor Books
God’s Little Devotional Book for Kids by Victor Gilbert Beers
8. Ask the Lord to provide you with an accountability partner to help you
stay faithful in your devotion to God.
9. Try using the S.O.A.P. method during your devotional period.
Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer is a method used
throughout the FBCG Fasting and Devotional book.
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Journal
in Action
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During your devotional period, you are encouraged to use the
S.O.A.P. (Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer)
method, which is used throughout the FBCG Devotional and
Fasting Journal. Below is an example of the 23rd Psalm to
show you how.
Abiding
DAY 1
Scripture: John 15:1-8
Observation:
Scripture: Psalm 23
Observation:
What I observe most in this Scripture reading is the image
and significance of a loving shepherd who guides and cares for the needs of his sheep.
This example shows me how the Lord Jesus is like a good shepherd and is always
in position to supply and provide for all my needs. Whether I need comfort, food,
guidance, direction or protection from my enemies, He has promised to be there ready,
willing and able to take care of me.
Application:
Application:
I can apply this to my life now as I find myself concerned
about my finances, my family and my future. I must remember that He is my
shepherd and that if I follow Him, He will lead me by the water for refreshing. He
will provide direction for my steps and protection from those that would harm me.
Prayer:
Prayer:
Father, thank you for showing me in this Scripture how much you care
for me and how you are willing and ready to make provision for me in every area of
my life. Please help me to stop worrying about tomorrow and to trust in you for all
my needs. No matter how great or small they may be, help me to trust in you as the
Good Shepherd of my life.
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Journal
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Believing
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DAY 2
Clinging
Scripture: Mark 9:14-23
Scripture: Hebrews 10:19-39
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 3
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Denying
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DAY 4
Expecting
Scripture: Luke 9:23-27
Scripture: Romans 4:13-25
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 5
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fasting
Scripture: Joel 2:12-32
DAY 6
Christians in Corporate Action:
Weekend of Giving and Helping
Observation:
Application:
Thank you for participating in this weekend of meditation and action
as we focus on the gifts of “Giving and Helping”! Below you will find a
few ideas about how you can share the gifts of giving and helping. Some
of you will find opportunities in your own families, relationships and
neighborhoods. Others will be inspired to reach beyond their current
level of giving and helping. However you choose to demonstrate your
love for the Lord through your service to others, we pray your experience
will be fulfilling and that you will discover a deeper and more fulfilling
walk with the Lord.
Inspirational Scriptures: James 1:22-25; James 2:17-18;
Matthew 5:16; I Timothy 6:18; Titus 2:7; Hebrews 10:24
Prayer:
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Ideas on Giving and Helping
1. Prepare a meal for someone in need.
2. Assist an elderly family member, friend or neighbor with household
chores, transportation needs or other necessities of life.
3. Donate food, clothing or furniture to those in need.
4. Consider mentoring, fostering or adopting a child.
5. Volunteer your time at a local shelter, hospital or nursing home.
6. Take steps to participate in or support local or global missions
work.
7. Organize a group and find a way to meet an immediate community
need.
8. Take personal action to rectify overdue debt, child support, alimony
and other financial obligations.
9. Make a financial contribution to a charitable organization.
Gg&Hh
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Giving and Helping Beyond
Today
Below you will find a sampling of some of the
ministries available to members of First Baptist Church
of Glenarden. These ministries provide long-term
opportunities to exercise the gift of giving and helping.
Adoption and Foster Care Network The purpose of the
Adoption and Foster Care Network is to provide information to families
and singles seeking to learn more about adoption and foster care.
Cancer Support The purpose of the Cancer Support Group is to
offer encouragement and spiritual support to cancer survivors or anyone
caring for a family member with cancer. The ministry provides a forum
for earnest discussion and information sharing, and more importantly a
place to share our faith of God’s blessings and grace that sustains us!
Card Ministry The purpose of the Card Ministry is to bring
comfort, joy and fellowship to those who are ill or bereaved. Cards
are mailed to these individuals to lift their spirit and to let them know
that others care. A list of the sick and shut-in is distributed to the
congregation every Sunday.
Crisis Care This ministry’s mission is to provide biblically sound
communication and problem-solving skills needed to assist in the
immediate diffusion of a crisis. In addition, the ministry also utilizes the
services of trained professionals.
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Hospitality Ministry The purpose of the Hospitality Ministry is
to greet visitors and to acknowledge their visit with a follow-up thank
you card. The Hospitality Ministry also provides catering support to all
FBCG Ministries.
Healing Transitions and Bereavement The mission of the
Giving
DAY 7
Scripture: Matthew 25:31-46
Observation:
Healing Transitions and Bereavement Ministry is to reach out to church
members and the broader community to bring God’s help, hope and
healing to those who are suffering pain from physical or terminal illness,
or the pain of loss due to death of a loved one.
Epistles Ministry The purpose of the Epistles Ministry is to share
God’s love and encouragement through the written word. Letters are
written to those overseas, incarcerated, homebound and to all who need
to hear the Good News!
Feed the Hungry This ministry’s mission is to provide physical and
spiritual food to the homeless weekly. An average of 130 persons are fed
every Saturday. In addition, blankets and warm clothing are passed out
during the winter months.
Application:
Global Missions The purpose of this ministry is to prepare church
team leaders to participate in mission trips around the world in order to
evangelize, aid in spiritual warfare and help improve the quality of living
for some of our world’s poorest communities.
Prison Ministry The Prison Ministry takes the gospel to the men,
women and teenagers who are incarcerated in prisons, correctional
institutions, mental institutions and halfway houses. The ministry
members are sharing God’s Word through Bible study, conferences,
revivals, worship services, witnessing sessions and/or written
correspondence.
Prayer:
Tract Ministry The purpose of the Tract Ministry is to secure and
distribute Christian tracts to members and guests and to maintain a
display of aids for Christian growth and sharing Jesus Christ.
34
– 34 –
Journal
35
Helping
36
DAY 8
Inspiring
Scripture: Ephesians 5:1-21
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 9
37
joining
38
DAY 10
Keeping
Scripture: Acts 2:38-47
Scripture: John 14:15-23
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 11
39
Loving
40
DAY 12
Meditating
Scripture: 1 John 4:7-21
Scripture: Philippians 4:4-9
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 13
41
Weekend of Naming and Obtaining
This is the weekend of “Naming and Obtaining” and the focus of
this week’s meditation and action is based on the book of Acts, chapters
3 and 4. The complete name of the book is the Acts of the Apostles and
it chronicles the actions of the apostles and the believers in the early
Christian church. The book of Acts also highlights the great success the
early church had in spreading the gospel and winning souls to Christ.
Today, however, many in the church have shrunken away from naming
the name of the Lord, Jesus Christ. Many have turned away from seeking
to obtain the boldness of the Holy Spirit by which the gospel is radically
shared and multitudes of lost souls are won to Christ.
Therefore, during this corporate weekend of “Naming and Obtaining,”
you are encouraged to speak unashamedly to those you encounter and
boldly proclaim the name of Jesus. Tell of His works, tell of His goodness,
tell of His sacrificial life, death, burial and resurrection and tell of the
availability of forgiveness of sins and life everlasting.
In the front of this devotional, you will find the plan of salvation based
on Scriptures from the book of Romans and often referred to as “Romans
Road of Salvation.” Use it to share the gospel with those who do not have a
personal relationship with the Lord, Jesus Christ. As well, if you encounter
someone who does not know the Lord, does not have a church home,
is living in a state of turning away from God or is just unsure of their
salvation, invite them to attend church with you this Sunday.
The book of Acts begins with Christ ascending into the heavens and
announcing the great campaign of world-wide missions, through human
agency under the power of the Holy Spirit. This weekend and beyond, let’s
corporately agree to boldly proclaim the Lord, Jesus Christ!
Naming
DAY 14
Scripture: Acts 3; Acts 4:1-22
Observation:
Application:
Prayer:
Inspirational Scriptures: Psalm 40:9, 10; Psalm 71:15, 16; Psalm 199:46;
Mark 8:38; I Corinthians 2:2; Romans 1:16; II Timothy 1:8, 12; I Peter 4:16
42
– 42 –
Journal
43
obtaining
44
DAY 15
Praying
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 16
45
Quitting
46
DAY 17
Resisting
Scripture: Ephesians 4:14-32
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 18
47
Submitting
48
DAY 19
Teaching
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:11-25
Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 20
49
Weekend of Uplifting and Valuing
Uplifting
DAY 21
Scripture: Colossians 3:1-17
Observation:
The corporate meditation and action this week will focus on the biblical
attributes of “Uplifting and Valuing.” As believers, we are called to
uplift and value one another. We do this by consistently walking in
true Christian graces. These graces (referred to as the fruit of the spirit)
include, but are not limited to sympathy, kindness, humility, meekness,
long suffering, love, forgiveness and forbearance (Galatians 5:22-23). We
are also called to value one another. When you value someone you ascribe
worth or importance to them and treat them with great care and respect.
When manifested in our lives these graces strengthen, fortify, encourage,
support and uplift those we come in contact with. Most of all, the
manifestation of true Christian graces brings glory to God!
Application:
But is it really that easy?
Here’s the key. The only way any of this can be accomplished is by the
enabling power of the Holy Spirit. So this weekend, our challenge is to
fully yield to and walk in the power of the Holy Spirit as we uplift and
value one another.
Prayer:
Inspirational Scriptures: Ephesians 4:24; Romans 12: 9, 10;
Philippians 2:2-4; Galatians 5:22, 23; Ephesians 4:32; I Peter 3:8-11;
II Peter 1: 5-8; I John 3: 14-20
50
– 50 –
Journal
51
Valuing
52
DAY 22
Worshiping
Scripture: Colossians 3:18-25
Scripture: Revelation 9:1-17
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 23
53
XCITING
54
DAY 24
Yielding
Observation:
Observation:
Application:
Application:
Prayer:
Prayer:
DAY 25
55
Zeroing
Observation:
DAY 26
Concluding Thoughts
Congratulations, you completed the devotional! However, the spiritual
journey of living as a “Christian in Action” does not end at Day 26.
... Christ did not appoint professors, but followers. If Christianity ... is not
reduplicated in the life of the person expounding it, then he does not expound
Christianity, for Christianity is a message about living and can only be
expounded by being realized in men’s lives. – Soren Kierkegaard
Application:
As Christians or “Christ’s Ones,” we are called to represent to the world
the life and love of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Let us therefore continue on
from here, living daily the dynamic life of a Christian in Action.
“As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him,
rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been
taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving” (Colossians 2:6-7).
Prayer:
56
in Action
–
57
Bibliography
•Thompson’s Chain Reference Bible
•New King James Version Bible
• Experiencing the Depths of Jesus Christ
by Jeanne Guyon
58
Devotional and Fasting Journal
Writers and Editors
Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr.
Minister Sherri Barnes
Minister Deborah J. Chambers
Deaconess Lynn Winters
Marketing & Public Relations Department
in Action
–
59
First Baptist Church of
Glenarden
Worship Center
600 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
(mailing address)
Ministry Center
3600 Brightseat Road
Landover, MD 20785
301-773-3600 Church
301-341-5660 Fax
www.fbcglenarden.org
E-mail: [email protected]
Stay connected with us on
www.facebook.com/firstbaptistglenarden
www.twitter.com/FBCG

of Christians in Action - First Baptist Church of Glenarden

Transcription

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