ecc grapevine dec/jan 2012 - issue 59

rapevinemagazine

issue 59 December 2012 / January 2013

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CARIBBEAN EVENING 2012

GINSIDe

THIS ISSUe

An Pentecostal Church

come on andCELEBRATE!

A heart for the homeless - p5

A very proud moment - p6

PlUSyouTh

MiniSTriES CEBU MISSION

p29

2 GRAPEVINE • Issue 59 • December 2012 / January 2013 SEASON'S GREETINGS

Life can be very busy,

so everyone enjoys a time when they can rest, relax

or celebrate as a diversion

from the fast pace of modern life, and from the stress that it can bring. We are not designed to be able to work non-stop, but need times set aside to rest. In the Bible, it is interesting to note that God not only commanded one day of rest per week, but also several holiday seasons throughout the year.

A word from the SeNIOR PASTOR

Onbehalfof the familyhereatEaling Christian Centre,wewouldliketotakethisopportunityto

letyouknowthatwearegladtohaveyouworshippingwithustoday.Wehopeyouwillfeelathomeinourfellowship - whether this is your first time or yourumpteenthtimewithus.MayGodblessyou.

CONTeNTS 2 AWordfromtheSeniorPastor 4 Sent-PriscillaOliviaMesaque 5 Managingwithout'Mum&Dad'-PastorMark 6 AVeryProudMoment -MicahStapleton&RhodaMhango 7 MyChristmasWish-AkinOsuntoki 8 WhatisGodTellingUs?-MirriamBwalya 9 AHeartfortheHomeless-SharonGrant10TheAnswer12 PrayerCentreTestimonies13 Two-monthPrayerDiaryPull-out21 SundayServicesataGlance/PrayerMinistry22 Financepage/Elim'sFundamentalBeliefs 23GeneralNotices/ForthcomingEvents24Fellowship&Congratulations25 Howto...DoLeadershipEveryDay -RoyMcEwen26 AdamNamedtheAnimals-JohnBaker &Classifieds27 GoWiththeFlow!-PastorJohnStarr28 Teachers'WorkshopwithOllyGoldenberg29 YMSpecial:CebuMissionsHighlight30 Women'sEncounter2012

Would you like to contribute an item to the next edition of the GRAPEVINE magazine?

Deadline for MONTH/MONTH edition is FRIDAY 4th JANUARY 2013 IfyouwouldlikeanitemtobeconsideredforthenexteditionoftheGrapevinemagazine,pleasesubmityourpiece-byemailonly,please-no laterthanFriday 4th January [email protected],marked'ForGrapevine'.Articlesforhalfapageshouldbeno more than 250 words,andforafullpageshouldbeno more than 600 words.TheEditorreservestherighttoeditarticleswherenecessary.Editor-in-Chief:Pastor Richard BuxtonEditor&Design:Berean Services UKPhotography:Roy McEwenplusvariouscontributorsfromECCStockImages:freepik.com,publicdomainpictures.net,shuttlecock.comPrint:Deluxe Printers Ltd,LondonNW107NR,Tel:02089651771EalingChristianCentre,268NorthfieldAvenue,Ealing,LondonW54UBTel:02088407508 Fax:02088401461Email:[email protected] Website:www.ecc.org.uk

GrapevineispublishedbyEalingChristianCentre.Reproductioninwholeorpartwithoutwrittenpermissionisprohibited.GrapevineandtheECClogoaretrademarksofEalingChristianCentreintheUnitedKingdomwhereGrapevinecirculates.Copyright©EalingChristianCentre2012.Allrightsreserved.

Welcome toEaling Christian Centre

Thesecelebrationshadseveralpurposes.First,ofcourse,itwasanopportunitytotakeabreakfromthenormalroutineoflife,inordertobecomephysicallyandmentallyrefreshed.Bydoingthat,apersonisabletocomebackwithrenewedvigourtodailytasks.

Secondly,itwasatimeforfamiliesandcommunitiestogettogetherforfellowshipandfun.TheholidaysthatGodcommandedwerenottobecarriedoutinisolationbyourselves,butratherascelebrationstogetherwithothers.Itwastobeatimewhenpeoplecouldenjoythemselves,laughtogether,sing,danceandshouttogether,asthewordsofmanyofthePsalmsshowus,suchas:

“Praise the Lord.Sing to the Lord a new song, his

praise in the assembly of the saints.

Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the people of Zion be glad in

their King.Let them praise his Name with

dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp. For the Lord takes delight in his

people.”Psalm 149:1-4

“Clap your hands, all you nations; Shout to God with cries of joy.”

Psalm 41:1

chriSTMAS&

nEW yEAr'S EvECELEBRATIONS

at

chriSTMASFAMily SErvicE

Sunday 16th December 6.30pm

chriSTMAScArol concErT

Sunday 23rd December Doors open 6.00pm

chriSTMAS DAy SErvicE

Tuesday 25th December 10.30am-11.30am

nEW yEAr'S EvE CELEBRATION

Monday 31st Decemberfrom 8.30pm

December 2012 / January 2013 • Issue 59 • GRAPEVINE 3IN JESUS' NAME

COME ON AND CELEBRATE!Thirdly,itwasnotcelebrationsimplyforitsownsake,buteachfestivalthroughouttheyearhadaspiritualthemerunningthroughitthathelpedremindthepeopleofGod’sinvolvementintheirlivesasindividualsandasanation.

SotherewastheFeast of Passover,wherethecelebrationremindedthemofhowGodhadledthenationoutofthebondageofEgypt,withmiraculoussignsandwonders.Those,whohadputtheirfaithinGod’sWordandplantorescuethem,hadbeensavedfromtheAngelofDeath,bytrustinginthebloodofthelambontheirdoorposts.Fromthere,theywentfromslaverytofreedom.Theydidnotrealiseitatthetime,buttheFeastwasalsoapropheticsign,pointingforwardtothe

comingofChristwhowouldshedhisbloodonthecrossasthe“LambofGod”.ForallwhotrustedGod’sWordandwhosoughtsalvationthroughthebloodofChristwould

besaved,notfromphysicalslavery,butfrombondagetosin.

ChristdiedatPassovertime,fulfillingthepropheticaspectoftheFeast.OnthefirstSundayafterPassover,thefirstfruitsoftheharvestweretobeoffered–theverydayJesuswouldrisefromthedeadtobecomethe‘firstfruits’ofthosewho,inChrist,wouldrisealsofromthedead(1Corinthians15:20).

ThentherewastheFeast of Pentecost,whichcameexactlyfiftydayslater.Peoplecelebratedastheharvestwasbeingbroughtin.Itremindedthem,accordingtoJewishtradition,ofthedayMosesreceivedthelawofGodonMountSinai.WhattheydidnotknowatthattimewasthatitpointedforwardpropheticallytothemostsignificantDayofPentecost.ThedaythatwouldbecomethebirthdayoftheChurch,whentheHolySpiritwouldbepouredoutintonguesoffire,

andthreethousandpeoplewouldbesaved.

Then,nearertheendoftheyear,cametheFeast of

Tabernacles.Thepeoplelivedintemporaryboothsmadeofpalmbranches,toremindthemofthetemporaryaccommodationtheylivedinduringthedayswhenthenationhadtoleaveEgypt.Prophetically,itpointedforwardtothefinalingatheringoftheChurch.

WhilstthebirthofJesusisdescribedinbothMatthew’sandLuke’sgospels,thereisno‘FeastofChristmas’,assuch,mentionedintheBible.Thiscameaboutmoreasachurchtradition,andeventhathas,unfortunately,beenhijackedbytheforcesofcommercialism,withitsemphasisonthemaximisationofprofitsandthefabled‘SantaClaus’story,whichiswhatmanypeopleinournationnowassociatewithChristmas,ratherthanthetruestoryofChrist,whoisGodincarnate-God’s‘indescribableGift’,inthewordsoftheapostlePaulin2Corinthians9:15.

Whilst using the opportunity to rest from the busyness of life, we celebrate and remember with joy the good things that God has done in our lives and for his people.

Theendandbeginningoftheyearonourcalendar,fallingasitdoesinmid-Winter(December/January),isalsodifferenttothebiblicalcalendar,wheretheNewYearbeganinthemuch

moresensibletimeofSpring.

WecanmakethemostoftheChristmasandNewYearfestivalseasonasavehicleforgood,ifwefollowandseektoincorporatethebiblicalprinciplesabove.Whilstusingtheopportunitytorestfromthebusynessoflife,wecelebrateandrememberwithjoythegoodthingsthatGodhasdoneinourlivesandforhispeople.Andwe make Christ central,asweremembertheawesomerealitythat,“TheWordbecame

fleshandmadehisdwellingamongus”(John1:14),and“YouaretonamehimJesus,becausehewillsavehispeoplefromtheirsins”(Matthew1:21).

ChristmasandNewYearcanalsobeagoodopportunityforevangelism,aspeoplearemuchmoreopenandreadytocometochurchduringthistime.LetthemseehowthepeopleofGodcelebratewiththejoyoftheLord,whichisfocusedonthepricelessrelationshipweenjoywithourGod,throughfaithinJesusChristourLord.Andthatfeelingofjoycontinuesevenwhenthecelebrationshaveended,becauseitisbasedontheinnerrealityofouron-goingrelationshipwithGod,whichissounlikethe‘hangover’thatcanfollowGod-lesscelebrations.

So,restandcelebratewithothers,butalwayskeepingChristasthecentralfocusofwhatwedo.

Richard Buxton


The Lord sent me to El Salvador, Central America,

during the summer of 2012 for 10 weeks with a charity called Progressio.

Theirmaingoalistoempowerpeopleinpoverty.Iwasinagroupofsix,includingateamleader(allofwhomwerenon-Christians).Whilstthere,weweresupporting/workingwithalocalpartnerorganisationcalledIMU(InstituteofResearchTrainingandDevelopmentofWomen),whichsupportsandpromoteswomen’srights.

ElSalvadoriancultureisverybeautiful,andisavastcontrasttoEnglishculture.Italsohasanuglyside,however,whichwasthegangculture,andhowwomenareseenandtreated.Femicide(theactofkillingawomansimplybecausesheisawoman)isalsoacommonsituationinElSalvador,whichIfoundheartbreaking.

Thereareabout50womenwhoareapartoftheOrganisation,whoallcametogetherand,againsttheodds,builttheirveryownbakery10yearsago.Welived

therefora

coupleofweeks,spendinghalfourtimethere-resting,havingourmeals,makingcake,sellingcakeandeatingcake!Ihadtorefrainfromthestrongtemptationsofgluttony,asIwassurroundedbysweet-smellingcakeforamajorityofthetime.

Ourmainjobasagroup-includingtheindigenousnationalvolunteers-wastohelpaselectionofthewomenandmembersofthelocalcommunity,‘El Refugio’,toobtainamoresustainablelifestyle,bycreatingorganicgardens,whichincludedbuildinganderectingastructure;makingorganicfertiliser;ploughingfurrows;sowingseeds,andwatchingsomeofthemreap.Alongsidethegardens,wetaughtBeginnersEnglishtomembersofthelocalcommunitythreetimesaweek,mainlytochildrenaged7upwardsandacoupleofadults.Ifoundteachingexciting,challengingandfrustrating,becauseIfoundplanninglessonsdifficult;Ifelt

Ididn’thavemuch

togive.Ithenbegantoprayintoitand,astimepassedby,Istartedtoreceivecreativeideasduringplanningandlessontime.IwasquitestunnedandopenlypraisedGodforeachidea.BythelastEnglishlesson,theystillweren’tfluentinBeginners

English,buttheycouldholdashortand

sweetconversationwithconfidence,

whichwaswonderfultowitnessand,consideringithadbeenhardworkandplay,theyhadneverthelesslearnedsomething!

Furthermore,towardsthe

endofthejourney,Icame

tounderstandthattheLordhadsentme

therespecificallytosowseedsspiritually,becausewithoutsomewhatrealisingit,throughmyactionsandwordsIhadmadeChristknowntotheindividualsaroundme.Iwasn’t‘LittleMissPerfect’,butIwasjustme.Oneofmygroupmembers,Daniela,inanotesaid,“Youtaughtmea

SEnT

Thanks andpraise the

lord

lotaboutfaithand

spirituality;Ihavealotmorerespectforitnow.”

Ifeltsoencouraged,andIjustthankGodthatIwasabletofreelyshareandliveoutmytestimony.

ThemajorityofElSalvadoriansareofmixed‘religious’backgrounds,butIthankGodthatIwasabletomeettwobornagainChristianscalledMelvinandJosé,whobothsharedtheirtestimonieswithme(viaaninterpreter).Irememberfeelingsoinspiredbytheirstories,becausethey,likeme,hadbeenbroughtoutoftheircrazylifestylesbythegraceofGod,anditjustfeltgoodtorelatetopeoplewhobeforeChristwereinvolvedinsomewhatsimilarsituationstome.ItwasinterestingtohearhowtheLordhadintervenedandtransformedtheirlives.Allinall,IthanktheLordforanamazingexperience-withsmiles,tears,sadnessandlaughter.Igrewtolearnmoreaboutmyself-thegood,thebadandtheugly!Insayingthat,Ilearntalotaboutpeopleanddifferencesinculture,andIhopetoreturntoElSalvadoragain.Thismaysoundcliché,butIfeellikeIhaveafamilythere.

Awordofencouragementforallofyou:‘WearemerelyatoolinHishands’.

byPriscilla olivia

Mesaque


After returning home from their mission field, many overseas

missionaries can suffer from what is termed as ‘culture shock’.

Changesintheirhomechurch,community and country cancause a lot of stress, as theydeal with their ‘new life’. So,for my wife and I,having returnedto the UK aftereight years inthe Philippines,wondering howour ‘spiritualchildren’ aredoing back inCebu is alwaysat the forefrontof our minds.Hence it wassoexcitingforus to takea pastoraltripbacktoCebu lastS e p t e m -ber to seehow thechurch ismanagingw i t h o u t‘Mum &Dad’.

One of thewords thatthe Lord gaveme last year,as I was in themidst of handingover the baton ofleadership, wasthat ‘there will beanexplosionwhenyou move backto the UK’. I tookthis to mean that there willbe a mighty harvest of souls,who will become part of PCC,PortlandChristianCenter.

So we were not surprised tosee at least 15 new faces inthe church when we arrivedback.That’sahighpercentagewhen you consider that thechurchconsistedof200whenweleft!

The introduction of ‘Matthew

Parties’ has been the majorinfluence in church growth;these are currently the mostproductiveevangelistictool.

The principle is very simple.Because very few people inthe villages have access toelectricity, it means that veryfewpeopleowntelevisions.Ata Matthew Party, a Christian

h o s t

- armed with agenerator, projector and DVDplayer - would invite theirneighbours around to see aChristian film which has asalvation message. Food anddrinksarealsoprovided.Thereis a short appeal at the endand, so far, the response hasbeenamazing!

Recently, this church growthhas led the leaders to take

thedecisiontoplantasecondchurch in 2013, in order todealwiththeamountofpeopleattendingfromthecity.Godhasrecently blessed the ministrywithabrandnewvehiclewhichholds 20 people. However,there are now more than 30people who want to travelto the church from the city,which is25kmaway.So,asa

church, we

areprayingthattheLord will provide us with abuilding - rented or otherwise- inordertoholdservicesandfacilitate outreach in the cityofDanao.

In 2004, one of the mainfactors I identified as a toolfor success was to growleaders. This turned out tobe a slow process, requiringa ‘truck-load’ of patience,

considering that many of themature members at the timehad little or no significanteducation.ButourmightyGodhas an answer for everything!I remember the Holy Spirittelling me to ‘use the up-and-coming generation to affectthis and the next generation’.So we quickly started to trainpeopleasyoungas15,asthey

were in education.Now that theseyoung adults arein their 20s, theyare equipped toinfluence andimpact theirgeneration andthe generationabove them.These sameleadersarenow

running fourBible studyoutreachesin four keyv i l l a g e s ,where oneday, Godw i l l i n g ,they willb e c o m ec h u r c h e sintheirownright!

So, one ofthe many

lessons that Ihave learnt overthe last eightyears is not toworry about myspiritual childrenas God, who isour real Father,is in control.He is buildingHis Church, and

there’snothingthatsatancandotostopit!

Please continue to pray forthe leaders and members ofPCC, that they would attainthe purpose that God has forthem.

PastorMark King

Managing Without‘Mum & Dad’!


Before knowing Christ, basketball for me was my outlet, where I was

able to express myself, and a way of switching my focus from the stress I faced in everyday life into a game where I felt a sense of freedom for a period of time. The only problem with this is that a game only lasts for so long, and all it would take is a bad game to add to the stress that I was already facing. When I got saved and accepted Jesus into my life, I then found stress relief that doesn’t have a time limit and doesn’t have bad days.

Eventually, Godbegan to show mehow basketball wasless about winningand more aboutbringing peopletogether. Over theyears, God hasalso revealed tome the things Ihadlearnt from playingbasketball, such asdiscipline,teamworkandconsistency-allthingsthatIuseandapplytomywalkwithGod today. This is one of themainreasonsthatIwantedthistournamenttohappen,becauseI know how God can use asport to instil good traits intopeople,andalsotobuildstrongrelationships.

Thespiritualobjectiveofputtingthe tournament together wasfirst to create a sense of unityamong churches in London.So, before the tournament, wecontactedseveralchurchesfromalloverEnglandand,ontheday,we had representatives come

down from Jesus House, basedinNorthwestLondon,andOasischurchfromSouthwestLondon.

The point of the tournamentwasalso tohelpbridge thegapbetween Christian and non-Christianpeople,andshowthemthe love of Christ in a practicalwayand,again,tobuildstrongerrelationships.TeamscamefromHayes, Hounslow, Northolt andGreenfordtocompete.Weevenhadanationalleagueteamcomedown from Brent. Despite 71peoplebeingregistered,cheeredon by approx 20-25 spectators,agroupoffivemenrepresentingECCwereabletocollectenough

pointsandgetintothefinal, and then go ontowinthatfinalwithascoreof12-4.

I would like to thankall the pastors andthe elders for theirencouragement andlove; Hakeem andDeLuxe Printers,for helping printthe leaflets for thetournament; Ivor

Thomas, who helped ref onthe day, as well as organising;Rhoda Mhango, who was greatin speaking to people andpromoting the tournament, andthesupportofKwekuMills,whohelpedplanthestructureofthetournament, and designed alltheartwork -aswellasbeingamassivesupporttome.

Most importantly, I thank Godand believe in Him that He willuseallofus tohelpspread thetruthaboutHisunfailing love inmanydifferentways.

Micah Joseph Stapleton

Londonin2012

hasbeenthesourceofimmenseexcitement,sportingsuccess,andintegrationofseveralcountries,culturesandcommoninterests.

OneneedonlythinkbacktotheOlympicGamesandrememberwhereyouwere,whoyouwerecheeringfor,andhowitmadeyoufeel,togetasenseofwhatispossible.Thisyear,ECC,throughMicahStapleton,tookonitsownchallengeandthefirstofitskind-theAnnualChristianBasketballTournament.AnyonewhohasmetMicahwillknowheisanambitious,influentialandcharismaticpersonwithaDavidheart;willingtotakeonobstaclesforGod'sglory;sharetheGospel,andstandinthegapforthisgenerationandthenext.

Itwasaprivilegetobeaskedtobeinvolvedand,evenmoreso,tobeabletohelpinbringingtogetherthefirstECCWomen'sbasketballteam.Iwasnervoustobeginwith,notknowingifanyonewouldcomeforwardand,iftheydid,whethertheircommandofthesportwouldseeusthrough.Ineedn'thaveworried-adreamteamemerged!Allatvaryinglevels,withdifferenttechniquesandsomeveryinterestingtacticsattimes(!),thecommonthreadthatboundustogether,however,wasthat(a)Godwaswithus;(b)wewerealldeterminedtolaughandhavefun,and(c)itwasachancetoshareinfellowship,exploresomethingnew,andlearnmoreabouteachother.

Foracoupleofweeks,wepractisedforafewhoursintheparkaftermorningservices,andbyMatchDaywewereready.Thecourtaccommodatedover50excitedplayers,spectatorsandassistants,andweallbracedourselvesforanafternoonfilledwithcheers,skilfulbasketballandrunning-alotofrunning!

OurfirstgameagainstJesusHousehelpedustofindourfeetandletgoofournerves.Thesubsequentgamesfeaturedsomeawesomebaskets(Reanne,Beth,Rebecca);fantasticdefence(Rasheeda,Kay),andsolidhandles(Nathaniel,Nicole)forthosewinningpasses.It was a great feeling for both the Men’s and Women's teams to walk away as winning champions.I'lldaretogoasfarastosaythatitwasaproudmomentfortheyoungECCmenandwomen,whosignedupweeksbefore,notknowingwhattoexpect,andreturningvictorious.

Aproudmoment,evenmoreso,forayoungmanwithavisionfromGod,whowalkedinobedienceandfulfilledHiswill.Congratulationsonasuccessfultournament,Micah,andthankyoutoallwhowereinvolvedandkeptusinprayer.WithyoursupportwearebuildingtheKingdomandputting10,000toflight.

MayGodblessyou.

Rhoda Mhango

A VERY PROUDMOMENTFirst Annual christianBasketball Tournament

MEn'S FinAlPoSiTionS

1st ECC Ambassadors 2nd Harlington Sonics 3rd Brent Ballers 4th North West Ballers

"god began to show me how basketball was less about winning and more about

bringing people together."

Micah Stapleton


MY CHRISTMAS WISH

AkinOsuntoki

Dear God

You - more than anyoneelse - know all thingsand forget nothing. You

thereforenodoubt rememberthat I had presented a ratherlonglistofthingsIwouldlikeforChristmas2011.And-forgivemeifIsoundungrateful,giventhat You actually blessed mewith more than I’d asked forlastyear-Icannotbutwonder,though, why some importantwishesnevercametopass!

Inparticular,God,Iamanxiousto know why You have notgrantedmydesiretoseemoremen join theDiscipleshipCellgroups. I know that You saidweshouldnot fret,butGod, Iamconcernedthatournumberseems to be reducing ratherthan increasing! And I knowYou are probably chucklingat my selfish motive, thatmore men in Cell would give

me some sense of personalaccomplishment. I confessthat You have got me bangtorights(aswesayhere),butwhowouldn’tbepleasedatalittleincrease,aftermuchtoil?Believe me, I am not alonehere; every member of thePrimary Team would rejoiceinanyboosttothenumberofmen inCell.Forwhowouldn’tbepleasedatrallyingmenforYou?Puremiracle,comparableonlytosqueezingwateroutofstone!

Buthonestly,God,evenifmenhadn’t immediately joined aCell, I would still have beenpleased to see more of them

attend prayer meetings;commit to evangelism, asChrist commands; be visiblein various other ministries,including the Ministry TeamandtheWorshipTeam,wherethere is an obvious dearth ofmen/tenors. And yes, I keepgetting told that this is thesameprobleminChristendom-fromLand’sEndtoTimbuktu,from Chicago to Tarawa - butsurely, You, like me, must beconcerned that if this trendcontinues, there would be nomen for the harvest, whichYourSonsays,isplentifulandwhich indeed is, given thenumber of burqa-clad womenwe can see in and aroundEaling!

Inourlocalassembly,wehavemen with obvious trappingsof the blessings You have

bestowed upon them, butwho have chosen to be thebackbenchers to ECC’sparliament. You alone knowwhymenhavenohesitationtoworking every hour You send,in a futile drive to store upearthly treasures that mothand rust can easily destroy,and that thieves can stealin a twinkle of an eye, butbarelyliftafingertobuildYourKingdom? Have You not said,“Whereyourtreasureis,thereyour heart will be also”? So,God, even if You would donothing else this Christmas,please stir up the hearts ofmen,andincreasethenumber

oflabourersinthisvineyard!

I am confused, Lord. Why isit that Your Word instructsbelievers not to give upmeeting together, and toencourageoneanother‘asweseetheDayapproaching’,yetmalebelieverscan’t-orwon’t-sparethetimetofellowship,much less encourage oneanother?IsitthattheycannotseetheDayapproaching?Yet,daybyday,misguidedMuslimmen,intheprimeoftheirlives,andatthecommandofmortalcowardly generals, willinglyadornthemselvesingarmentsof explosives, to blow up theinnocent and the perceivedguilty into smithereens. Is itthat whilst such people havechosen todie for theircause,that we can’t see that YourWordisworthlivingfor?Surely

God,won’tYouopenoureyesto see how close the secondcomingofChristis?

In conclusion, God, myChristmaswishforthisyeariswrapped in this prayer by SirFrancisDrake:

Disturb us, LordWhen we are too pleased with

ourselvesWhen our dreams have come

trueBecause we dreamed too

littleWhen we arrived safely

Because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, LordWhen, with the abundance of

things we possessWe have lost our thirst for the

waters of life;Having fallen in love with life,We have ceased to dream of

eternityAnd in our efforts to build a

new earth,We have allowed our vision of

the new Heaven to dim.

Disturb us, LordTo dare more boldly

To venture on wilder seasWhere storms will show Your

masteryWhere, losing sight of land

We shall find the stars.We ask You to push back the

horizons of our hopesAnd to push back the future

In strength, courage, hope and love.

This, we askIn the Name of our Captain

Who is Jesus Christ.

In our local assembly, we have men ... who have chosen to be the backbenchers to ECC’s parliament

So, God, even if You

would do nothing else

this Christmas, please stir up

the hearts of men, and increase the

number of labourers in

this vineyard!


TRUE LIFE STORIES

A lot of times we watch on TV or

read in the newspaper of children and adults who have gone missing. We see families calling people to help with the investigation, and to plead for the safety of their loved ones. However, in most cases, the outcome of the investigation is not always good.

Asafamily,wehadasimilarexperienceearlierthisyear,whenmybrotherNoelwentmissingandeventuallywasfounddead.Hisdeathwas

-andstillis-amystery,andonlyGodcanfillinthegaps.Theweekendbeforemybrotherdied,IhadgonetoAshburnhamPrayerCentreforaretreat,andhadagreattimeinthepresenceoftheLord,andwasmoreonfireforGod.

However,afewdayslater,Ireceivedthebadnewsaboutmybrother’sdeath…

Ifeltlikeabucketfulofice-coldwaterhadjustbeenpouredonthatfire.IttookmeawhiletoprocesswhyGodhadallowedhimtodieinsuchaway:hewasayoungman;mixedwellwithanyoneandeveryone;lovedpeopleunconditionally-regardlessofhowtheytreatedhim.Hewasn’tperfect,butherealisedandacknowledgedhisimperfections,andwasworkingonthem.

Thegriefweallfeltasafamilywasimmeasurable,anditwasbyGod’sgracethatthefuneralarrangementswentwellwithoutanyhiccups.Subsequently,inmygrief,IrememberedaquestionthatmyelderbrotheralwaysposedtomewheneverIhadaproblemandaskedforhisadvice:“WhatisGodtellingyouinthissituation?”

Someofushavecometotherealisationthat,asChristians,itisOKtogrieve,aslongaswedoitwithfaith.Jesusknew

HewasgoingtoraiseLazarusfromthedeadandyet,foramomentintime,Hegrievedwiththosewhoweregrieving(John11:33-36).

AsChristians,sometimeswetrytosuppressthenaturalprocessofgrieving,butthisonlyprolongsthepain,andmaysometimesleadtobitternessoranguish,but

theBibletellsthatthereisatimetomournandatimetolaugh.Inacknowledgingourweakness,Godgaveusthestrengthduringthedifficulttimebeforeandafterthefuneral.

Ourintentionwastoseekjustice,andtoensurethatthepersonwhocommittedthecrimepaidtheprice.However,GodspokethroughsomeministersofHisWord,whoadvisedustoonlylooktoHimforjustice(Romans12:17-21).

ItwasimportanttorememberthatthereisnodeathwhichhappenswithoutGod’sknowledge-whetherpeoplediedatayoungageorinoldage;whetherasuddendeathorafteralongillness(Job1:12-21).Equally,JesusknewthatHisfriendLazaruswas

goingtodieandyet,whenHewastoldofhissickness,Hedidnotrushtohealhim,butHewaitedforhimtodiebeforeHemadeHiswaytoBethany(John11:1-16).IttookgreatfaithtowaitonGod’sjusticeinsteadofseekingourown,especiallywhenwehadthemeanstodothingsourway.

Noel’sdeathwasalsoawake-upcalltomany;itreallyenlightenedsomeofthefamilymembersandotherrelativesabouthowshortlifecanbe,andtheimportanceofstayingclosetoGod.Asafamily,weweremoreunitedspirituallythaneverbefore:weprayedtogether,andstrengthenedeachotherintheLord.Additionally,IsawandheardpeoplewitnesstootherswhohadceasedprofessingtheChristianfaith.

ThroughNoel’sdeath,Godhasbroughtspiritualbirthandgrowthtoeventhebystanders(John11:45,Mark15:39).

As Christians, sometimes we try to suppress the natural process of grieving, but this only prolongs the pain, and may sometimes lead to bitterness or anguish

It took great faith to wait on God’s justice instead of seeking our own, especially when we had the means

to do things our way

WHAT IS

TELLING US?MIRRIAM BWALYAshareshertestimony

ofhow,eveninthemidstofgrief,itisimportanttolistentoGod'svoice

GOD


Ealing Christian Centre (ECC),whichincludes

thePolishFellowship(ElimSprings),partnerswithovereightchurchestoprovidefood,supportandfellowshipfor80-120homelessanddisadvantagedpeopleeveryweekendonarotabasis.ThisministrytakesplaceattheEALINGSOUPKITCHEN(ESK),atStJohn'sChurchinEaling.

WedemonstrateChrist’slovetangiblybypreparingandservingathree-coursemeal,consistingoftwofreshlypreparedsoups-vegetableandchicken-thankstoKenSakulku,ourresidentcook;amaincourseofchilliorstewandrice,andadessert.

OurECCteamaremadeupofgreatpeople;theirpersonalitiesandinputmakethesessionsenjoyable.

Someoftheircommentsare:

Ken: “IloveSoupKitchen,becauseitispractical.Imaynotbeabletohealthesickordriveoutdevils,butIcansmileandservesoup!”

Kazik: “TheLordJesussaidthatpeoplewillknowthatweareHisbyourLOVE.ThemainmotivationformebeingpartofSoupKitchenistogivepraisetoJesusChrist,butalsotoshareHislovewithothers.Wegivefood,clothes,etc,tothosewhoarelessfortunate.Wealsotalkand,mostimportantly,welistentothem,becauseeveryonehasastorytotell.ManyclientsarePolish,andI'msohappythatIandothersfromthePolishChurchareabletotalktothem.Thehurt,broken-hearted,hungryandcoldarethesameanywhereintheworld.Undertheruggedexterior,therearerealpeoplewhoarelookingforloveandcompassion.That'swhyI'mtherewithothersfrommychurchtoshowourclientsChrist’slove.”

Mark and Sherine: “WehavebeeninvolvedwithEalingSoupKitchenfor

sevenyearsnow,andwehavelearnedsomuchandgrownaspeoplejustfromourexperiencethere.Weareverypractically-mindedindividuals,andSoupKitchenisanexcellentopportunitytoputChrist’sloveintoaction.WehaveanamazingteamofvolunteersfromECC,andwelookforwardtocontinuingtoservethoseinneedin2013.”

Beata: “IdoSoupKitchenbecauseitisaformofshowingpeoplethatGodlovesandcaresforthem,andwedoittoservepeople.Wedon'treallytalkaboutGodtomostofthem,butthebestpartistomeetpeople,toshowthemthereishope.Wegivethemmorethanfood;wegiveasenseofstabilitythatSoupKitchenisthereeveryweekend,andwearetheretolistentotheirstories,andtheyknowthattheywillbeheard.It’sachallengingbutrewardingexperienceforme.Sometimesit’soverwhelmingtoseehowmanyPolishpeoplearethere,

andhowmanypeopleareinneed.”

Clients still need winter clothes, woolly hats, scarves, jumpers, jackets, coats, gloves, socks, blankets, toiletries and sleeping bags.

OtheragenciesthatworkwiththehomelessanddisadvantagedpeopleinEalingincludethefollowing:

ACTON HOMELESS CONCERN operatesadrop-indaycentre.Theyprovidemeals,clothing,showeringfacilitiesandadvice.Thereisalsoadoctor,chiropodist,barber/hairdresser,optician,dentalservices,drugandalcoholcounselling,lifeskillstraining,andadvocacy.Formoreinformation,[email protected].

EALING CHURCHES WINTER NIGHT SHELTER PROJECT (ECWNS)operatesfrom1stDecember2012to31stMarch2013.Thisisan

Ealingchurchesjointprojecttosupporthomelessandvulnerablepeopleduringthecoldestandloneliesttimeoftheyear.Volunteersareneeded,andtrainingisonThursday8thNovember2012andTuesday8thJanuary2013from8pmto9.30pm.Formoreinformation,lookontheECCInformationBoard;contactAlisonWoodon07930378263,[email protected].

We’vebeenamazedatthegenerosityofchurchmembersovertheyears.Weencouragemorepeopletogetinvolved,andaskyoutokeepsendingitemsin,butplease ask permission before leaving anything in the building!!!

Infuture,wewillbeofferingpastoralcarepackstoclients,andawarenessinformationandfundraisinginitiativesforvolunteers,aswecontinuetopartnerwithotheragencies.WepraythatGodwillhelpustocooperatewithHim,aswecontinuetosharetheloveofJesus-onepersonatatime.

Sharon GrantandtheECCESKTeam2012

A hEArT For ThEHOMELESS

and those in need

THE NEXT ECC SESSIONS

AT EALING SOUP

KITCHEN ARE ON

SATURDAY 5th

JANUARYAND

SATURDAY 2nd MARCH

2013

Nickyinjury to back and knee healed

“Icametochurchwithgreatdifficulty.Ihadbeenoffsickfromwork,becauseIhadsufferedinjuryandpaintomybackandmyknee.Iwasunabletowalkformorethanthirtysecondsatatime.Iwasunabletodomydailyduties.Ihadbeenonpainkillersthroughoutthedayforalmostthreeweeks.Afterreceivingprayer,Iwalkedoutofchurchandrealisedthatallpainwasgone.IwenttoSainsbury’ssupermarket,andwalkedallround,nothavingtoleanontheshoppingtrolleyasIhadbeendoing,andIamamazedthatJesusChristhashealedmysickandpainfulbody.”

Nickyisanurse,andisbackatworkwithoutanypain,andisverygratefultoJesusforwhatHehasdoneforher.

RowenaTaller by two inches

“Ihadbeenhavingosteoporosisofmyback.TodaywhenIcameforwardforhealing,Isuddenlyfelttallerthenbefore.TheLordhadbroughtmybackintoalignment,andImentionedthattotheMinistryTeamthatIfelttaller.Iwentbacktothenurseforacheck-upand,aftermeasuringmyheight,Ihadindeedgrowntallerbytwoinches.Before,Iwasfivefoot,andtodayIamfivefeettwoinches.HeisamightyGod!”

Ariana(testimonyfromanine-year-oldgirl)no need for crutches - healed!

“OnedayIcameintoschooltofindthatmyfriend,Stevie,wasoncrutches.IsatdownstartingtothinkhowhappySteviealwayswas,withamassivesmileonherface.ThenIlookedbehindmetoseeSteviedoinghermathswithanagonisedface,aselectricpainsshotthroughherlegs.WhenIwentouttoplay,Idecidedtoprayforher,soItoldher,andsheagreedtoletmeprayforherandsaid“Thanks!”

SothefollowingnightIprayedforher,hopingherlegwouldgetbetter,andthenextdayIcamebacktoschooltoseeSteviesmilingmorethaneverbefore,becauseherleghadgotbetterandshedidn’tneedcrutchesanymore!!!”

Angieinstant prayer answered

“Mysondidnotcomehome.Wetriedtocontacthim,butnoanswer.Iwassoworriedabouthim.Icameforwardtoreceiveprayerthatmysonwouldcomehome.Duringtheprayertime,IfeltthatGodhadtouchedme,andIcriedbecauseIknewthatGodhadansweredmyprayer.Aftertheservice,IwenttomycarandIhadreceivedaphonecall.Itwasmyson,andhesaidthathewasalrightandthattherewasnothingtoworryabout.IwanttothankGodforHisunconditionalloveforme.”


James 1:6-7 says, “When he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not

think he will receive anything from the lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.” Hebrews 11:6 says, “And without faith it is impossible to please god, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists, and that he rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”

not only must we believe his promises, but when we come to god we must believe he is going to reward us and fulfil his promises, regardless of our circumstances. let us get rid of all doubts and unbelief. let us get our eyes off man, and onto Jesus! Allow Jesus to reveal himself to you as your great healer, who stands with outstretched hands, ready to touch and heal you.

regardless of what sickness or pain you may be suffering from; regardless of how long you may have suffered; regardless of your condition, even as you set your eyes on Jesus the healer, release your faith to touch him and receive the healing you need.

These are powerful testimonies of healing, shared by those who are grateful for God’s divine healing. Trust Him, as Jesus will never leave you nor forsake you. he is compassionate and loves you.

if you need personal prayers, we invite you to the monthly revival and healing meeting on the second Sunday of each month at 6.30 pm. Also, you can ring our 24/7 Prayer Centre on 020 8799 2199, where a compassionate intercessor will pray with you over the telephone line.

PastorRajinder Buxton

AnSWErTh

eTESTIMONIES FROM THE REVIVAL & HEALING MEETINGS

Davinano need for hospital - healed!

“Icametochurch,andwhenthecallwasgiventogoforwardforhealingministry,Icameforwardtoreceiveprayerformyhusband,whowassickathome.Myhusbandhadalreadypackedhissuitcasetogotothehospital,sothatonmyreturnfromchurch,hewouldbereadytogo.TheMinistryTeamprayedformyhusband,andIprayedforhim,too.WhenIgothome,myhusbandsaidhefeltwellanddidnotneedtogotohospital.JesusisourHealer!”

AbigailPregnancy pains gone

“Iprayedforsomehealthissuesandformypregnancy.Isatdownaftertheprayers,andstartedworshippingGod.Ifeltthatsomethinghappenedinmybody;mybabymovedinmybodyandbeforethatitfeltsoheavyandpainful,butnowitfeltsodifferent.Thepainwasgone.”

PhilomenaSide pains gone

“Ihavebeenhealedtoday.Ihadpainonmyrightside,andithadbeenthereonandoffrightthroughouttheweek.”

Butaftercomingforwardandreceivingministryforhealing,Philomenatestifiedoftotalhealing.Allpainhadvanished.

Simonehealed without laying on of hands

“Ihadbeenhavingpaininmybackforatleastthreeweeks.AsImademywayforward,andevenbeforeIsatdownonthechairtobeprayedfor,thepainwasgone.”

GodhealedSimonewithoutanyoneevenlayinghandsonherbody.

BridgetEliasBleeding of uterus stopped

“Ihadbeenexperiencinglowerabdominalpainforsometimeand,inspiteofseveralvisitstomyGP,Ifailedtogetadiagnosisorreferral.

Thenoneday,IdecidedtobookanotherappointmentwithadifferentGPatmylocalclinic.Ihadanexamination,andarequestwasmadeforanabdominalscan.

ThescanshowedthatIwasbleedingintotheuterus,soIwasadmittedtohospitalforahysteroscopy.Thehysteroscopyfailed,andIremainedanin-patientforthenight,andwasdischargedhomethenextday.

Twoweekslater,Ihadafollow-upscan,withtheplanofasecondattemptatthehysteroscopy.However,whenImetwiththeConsultant,heinformedmethatthescanshowedthatthebleedinghadceased,andconfirmedthatInolongerneededtoundergothehysteroscopy.ThereforeIwasdischarged.

IwashealedbythepowerofmyGod.”


Sonianeck problem and pain gone after two years

“Ihadbeenhavingpainatthetopofmyneckforatleasttwoyears.IlivedwiththispainandwonderedifIwouldhaveitalways.Ihadproblemsandgreatdifficultyliftingmyshopping.IwenttotheHealingServiceandIwasprayedfor,andwithinaboutfiveminutesofreceivingministry,allthe

paininmynecktotallydisappeared.Iamtodaypain-freeaftertwoyearsofexperiencingpain.”

SeniSprinting injuries healed

“Icameoutforprayerafterthecallforhealingintheservice.Ihadalotofinjuriesduetomyathletics.Thereweremanylong-termissuescausedbythestrainofsprinting.Aftersomeprayerandanointingwithoil,theMinistryTeamnoticedthatIhadonelegshorterthantheother.Theysatmedownandheldmyfeet,whileprayingformylegstogointoproperalignment.Myleggrewouttoitsnormallengthandthedull,backgroundpainIwasaccustomedtowasgonefrommylegs.Reliefwasfelt.Jesushashealedme.”

thePRAYER

centre 020 8799 2199

The Prayer centre operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as compassionate prayer partners are waiting to take your prayer requests and to pray for your individual needs over the telephone. here are some of the amazing answers

to prayer, as individuals ring back to share their answers with us.

A very small selection of the many answers to prayers received in the Prayer Centre

goD cAn uSE youAmazing testimonies abound at the

Prayer centre, and you can make a difference to someone's life. Are you willing to be used by god in

this area? Please contact rudy or Tom, our Prayer coordinators, on

020 8799 2199.


BENEFITS REINSTATEDA sister called the Prayer centre many times for prayers to redeem all her benefits that the government had held back from her. She called back to give god the glory, because she has won all her benefits back to the glory of god.

CHALLENGING BEHAVIOURAn anonymous caller was having great difficulty looking after a 12-year-old girl, who had challenging behaviour. After two hours, she managed to get the girl safely home to her parents, and rang back to give thanks to god.

inSoMniAA gentleman called the Prayer centre one night, because he was suffering from multiple sclerosis and wanted, among other physical needs, to be released from his insomnia. he reported that he had slept well like a baby, even though he hadn’t taken his usual sleeping tablets.

JOB OFFERA sister received a job offer, starting the Thursday after she had called for prayer the previous week, and wanted to thank god.

DIABETESA sister had had a blood test that indicated she had diabetes; she rang the Prayer centre and the results from the next lot of tests showed that no diabetes was found. She rang the Prayer centre to testify to God’s goodness. Praise god.

REIMBURSEMENTA sister, who is a disabled student, had to use a taxi to get to college. She was refused payment for all her taxi trips. She rang the Prayer centre and all payments due were refunded after a year. Praise god.

WorK collEAguEA sister had been going through a stressful time at work with her manager. She felt constantly under pressure, because her manager is a short-tempered person, She called the Prayer centre and the situation has become much better; her relationship with her manager has improved greatly, and she wanted to thank god for all the prayers.

DEnTAl EMErgEncyA sister phoned the Prayer centre during her lunch break to ask for prayer for her daughter, who was about to go for emergency dental treatment. She called back later that evening to say everything had gone well, and that her daughter was in bed sleeping peacefully.

AlcoholicA sister called for prayer on behalf of her father, who is an alcoholic. She phoned back a week later to say that her father had cut down on alcohol considerably, and she prayed that he will be permanently delivered from this bondage.

TRIBUNALA sister wants to give god thanks for giving her victory in her tribunal case, after she had received much prayer from the Prayer centre. To god be the glory. FinAnciAl

BREAKTHROUGHA sister phoned the Prayer centre to give thanks to the lord for her financial breakthrough, after phoning the Prayer centre for prayer. She was now able to bless her friend. There was also an on-going problem with a particular firm, but this was now being resolved. Praise god.

NEW JOBA gentleman received prayers concerning a job, and god has answered his prayer for a job as a bus driver. Thanks be to the lord.

chEST PAinSA sister rang the Prayer centre, because she was having pains in her chest, and after prayer she was completely healed. Praise the lord.

BROKEN HIPA lady called the Prayer centre concerning her mother, who had fallen and broken her hip. She was operated upon, and had to have a plate inserted in her hip. The operation was successful; she is now doing very well; looks amazing; comments by medical staff are positive, and she is ready to return home. The lady has been granted two months’ sick leave with pay to look after both her mother and father (who is recovering from heart attack).

BEDRIDDENA brother called for prayer after visiting his sister, who was bedridden and experiencing much pain. She had a muscular problem and was unable to move around. Two days later, his sister has shown remarkable and outstanding recovery; has been released from pains; has greater mobility, and is even looking much brighter. Praise be to god.

Driving TESTA lady called the Prayer centre at 20.00hrs on 24th September, because she was going for her driving test the following day; she had already failed two previous tests, and now needed the help of god to pass. She called back to testify that she has finally passed her driving test, and wanted to thank god and the Prayer centre for their powerful prayers.

PRAYER DIARY for

JANUARY 2013

Bible Readings and Prayer Points for individual and c

hurch Spiritual grow

th

IftheBookofPsalmshelpsusinourdevotionallives,wemaysaythattheBookofProverbshelpsusinapplyingspiritualprinciplestoourdailylivesinapracticalway.Here,wefindwisdominhowtoliveinallthevarioussituationswefindourselvesindaybyday.

AlthoughSolomonwrotetheseparticularproverbs3,000yearsago,thereasonwhytheyremaintimelessisthat,althoughtheworldmayhavegrownmorecomplicatedandtechnicallyadvanced,humannaturehasneverchanged.Indeed,thisiswhytheBibleremainsrelevanttoallgenerations,becauseitdealswithtwothingsthathaveneverchangedfromthebeginningofcreationuntilnow:namely,God(“I,theLord,donotchange”-Malachi3:6)andhumannature(“ForallhavesinnedandfallshortofthegloryofGod”-Romans3:26).

AsChristians,wearecalledtobe24/7followersofJesus.Sincemostofourtimeisnotspentinchurch,butathome,amongstneighbours,intheworkplaceormarketplace,mixingwithpeopleofallkinds,theproverbsdealwithpracticalwaysofinteractinginallthesedifferentsituations.

AswepraythismonththroughtwoChaptersofthebookofProverbs,wewillbeprayingconcerningareasofthehome,placesofworkandthemarketplace,seekingtomaintainintegrityinallourday-to-dayactivitiesinhowwerelatetopeopleasweconductouraffairs,sothatwecanbeeffectiveinstrumentsfortheHolySpirittouse.

1st–Proverbs13:1Being teachable1.HeavenlyFather,giveusateachablespirit

that enables us to change as the HolySpiritleadsus.

2.When we are wrong, O Lord, help us tohave thehumility toacknowledge it andchange.

3.GiveusadesiretolearnfromyourWord,OGod,and thewisdomtoput intodailypracticeallthatyouteachus.

4.Give us ears to hear when you speakthrough preaching and teaching, and adetermination to be doers of the Wordandnothearersonly.

5.Helpus tobecomespirituallymaturesothatwe,too,canbeteachersofothersinwordandexample,wepray.

2nd–Proverbs13:2-3Guarding our lips1.Helpustothinkbeforewespeak,OLord,

so that we do not regret any words wespeak.

2.Since faith comes by hearing the WordofGod,mayourwordsbeonesthathelpotherstodiscoverfaithandgrowinfaith,wepray.

3.Aswedrawclosertoyou,OLord,maythewisdomyougiveusbehelpful toothersthroughthewordswespeak.

4.Giveusaheartthatalwaysseekstoblessotherswithourwordsandtobuildthemup, rather than pulling them down, wepray.

5.Help us to be a blessing to someonetoday, O Lord, by saying something toencourageandedifythem.

3rd–Proverbs13:4-6Diligence and integrity

1.Keepusfromlaziness,OLord,andhelpusseek tostrive forexcellence inallwedo,sincewedoitasuntoyou.

2.Give us the desire to go the extra milewheneverwearecalledupontodoso,OGod.

3.Keep us from every form of falsehood,andconvictuswhenwedoso,HolySpiritweask,sothatwecanlearnnottodosoagain.

4.Enable us to conduct ourselves withintegrity in every area of our lives,becausewewanttoliveaccordingtoyourstandards,OLord.

5.Keepusalert,HolySpirit,so thatwedonotallowthedeviltogainafootholdinourlives.

4th–Proverbs13:7-8Wisdom in using our finances

1.Help us to learn the secret of beingcontent in our changing circumstances,whetherwehappentohavemuchorlittleatpresent,wepray.

2.Teachus to trust inyouasourheavenlyFather,ratherthaninwhateverwehappentopossess,wepray.

3.Whetherwehavemuchorlittle,helpustouseourfinanceswisely,OLord,inawaythatpleasesyou.

4.Maywenotforgettogivebacktoyouandyourworkthefinancesyouexpectofus,OGod.

5.Giveusgenerousheartswhenitcomestomoneyandpossessions,OLord,so that

weareincontrolourfinances,ratherthanfinancescontrollingus.

5th–Proverbs13:9-11Letting our light shine

1.Cause the lightofChristwithinus tobeseensimplybythewayweliveour lives,wepray.

2.May our light shine for Christ in ourhomes,OLord,andhelpustoliveforyouamongstourfamilies.

3.Enable our light to shine for Christ inour places or work, college and school,wepray,asweseek to carryoutall ourresponsibilitieswithintegrity.

4.Show us, Holy Spirit, what ministry youwantus todo inchurch, so thatwearenotcontenttoleaveeverythingtoothers.

5.GiveusconfidenceinwhoweareinChrist,andaboldnesstostandupforChristatalltimes,coupledwiththewisdominhowtoexpressit.

6th–Proverbs13:12Learning how to wait in faith

1.Help us to learn a trust in you, O Lord,thatexpressesitselfinbeingabletowaitpatientlyuponyou.

2.Knowing how waiting can be the causeof developing and strengthening ourcharacterandfaith,giveusthepatiencetowaitinfaith,wepray.

3.Sinceyourtimingisalwaysbest,helpusnottospoilyourdesiredoutcomeforourlives by forcing a situation rather thanwaitingonyou,OGod.

PRACTICAL WISDOM FOR DAILY LIFEProverbs Chapters 13 and 14

PRAYER DIARY for

JANUARY 2013




th

The psalms we are praying through this month are a group of 15 short psalms that are known as the “Songs of Ascents”. The whole group begins at Psalm 120, and runs through to Psalm 134. They are called “Songs of Ascents”, it has been said, because:

1. They are the psalms that the Jewish pilgrims would sing, as they were making their way from their homes to Jerusalem, which is set on a group of mountains. As they climbed up the roads leading to the city, they would be singing these psalms.

They would be making their way to celebrate one of the annual feasts, such as Passover, Pentecost and Tabernacles.

2. The Levites, whose job it was to lead the worship with music and song during Temple service, would sing these psalms as they ascended the steps of the Temple courtyard.

They tell of the joy of the people of God gathering together to worship the One who is the Maker of Heaven and Earth. He watches over his people to protect them, and never slumbers or sleeps. Those who trust in him will never be shaken, and need not fear. The wise person builds his or her life upon God as their Rock, who will guide them through life, and surround them like the mountains surrounding Jerusalem. Though there may be times of sowing in tears, this will be followed by reaping in joy.

This section ends with two short psalms. Psalm 133 provides the picture of Aaron the High Priest being anointed with the precious, sacred oil, which runs from his head down onto his body. This special and unique mixture of fragrant oil was only to be used for anointing that which was holy unto the Lord (Exodus 30:22-33). This is likened to unity amongst God’s people. Oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit, who is special and unique and who flows from the head (Christ) down through his body (the Church) when his people live and work together in unity. That is when the power of the Holy Spirit is released to work in and through his people in all his power and fullness.

Psalm 134 concludes this section with God’s people worshipping in wonder, love and praise – the kind of people God wants us to be, so that we can be the effective, anointed witness of his presence and power to the generation in which we live.

MiniSTEring TogEThEr unTo goDPsalms 120 to 134

1st-Psalm120:1-3Help in times of distress

1.Weprayforallthoseamongstuswhoarestruggling in their personal lives at thistime;strengthenthem,OLord.

2.Forallthoseweknowwhohavefinancialdifficultiesatthistime,astheyseekyou,OLord;providefortheirneeds,wepray.

3.We pray for those amongst us who areseeking you, O God, regarding familyissues that are causing them distress;bringresolution,weask.

4.For thoseexperiencingdistressbecauseoftheirjobsituation,meetalltheirneeds,wepray.

5.Forthoseweknowwhoarestrugglingintheirspirituallivesatthistime,helpthemdrawclosertoyou,OLord.

2nd-Psalm120:4-7Being a peacemaker

1.Help us always to seek to follow you inevery way, Lord Jesus, as the Prince ofPeace.

2.Causeus tobepeacemakers, going theextramiletoseekreconciliation,wepray.

3.Causeustobeapeople,OLord,who,asfarasitdependsonus,liveinpeacewithall.

4.HelpusgrowinthefruitoftheSpirit,sothatwearenotprone tobepeoplewhoarecontentious.

5.Giveuswisdom,OLord,toknowhowtohandle situations in a godly way, wherepeoplearecontentioustowardsus.

3rd–Psalm121:1-2Looking to God

1.Inallourdecisionmaking,maywelearntoseekyourguidance,OGod.

2.Help us never to neglect to take timeouteachdaytospendinyourpresence,drawingclosertoyou,OLord.

3.AswereadtheBible,maywelearnalltheprinciples to put into practice for everypart of our daily lives and decisions, wepray.

4.Teachusthestrengthoftrustinginyou,OGod,andnotsolelyinourownwisdom.

5.As we contemplate the reality that youmadeallthatexists,maywebeinspiredtotrustyouevenforwhatseemsimpossible,wepray.

4th–Psalm121:3-8God’s protection

1.Lord,causeustomakeuseatalltimesofthespiritualarmouryouhavegivenus,to

protectusagainstattacksoftheenemy.2.Cause us to live such godly lives in all

we do, that the devil can never gain afootholdinourlives,wepray.

3.Give us the ability to know and use theWordofGodastheeffectiveswordoftheSpiritthatyouwantittobeinourhandsandlives,OLord.

4.Wecomeagainsteveryplanoftheenemyagainst us as individuals, and break itspowerintheNameofJesus.

5.We take authority over every spirit thatwould seek to attack the church in anyway,andbinditinJesus’Name.

5th–Psalm122:1-2The House of the Lord

1.May the gathering together with yourpeople, O Lord, always be a source ofstrengthandjoytoeachofus.

2.We pray for your manifest presence inourmidst,OGod,wheneveryourpeoplegatherinyourName.

3.Each time we gather together in yourName,OLord,maywesee theunsavedgivingtheirlivestoyou.

4.In all our gatherings together as thepeopleofGod,maytheNameofJesusbeupliftedandglorified.

PRAYER DIARY for

DECEMBER 2012


5.Move in our midst, Holy Spirit, we pray,in signs and wonders that confirm thepreachingofyourWord.

6th–Psalm122:3-5Thrones of Judgment

1.May the knowledge that we have beensaved from judgment of our sin throughthe cross of Jesus, cause us to live ourlivesindailythankfulnesstoyou,OGod.

2.Knowingthatonedaywewillstandbeforeyou to be judged for our faithfulness asbelievers,helpus to liveoutour lives infaithfulnesstoyou,OLord.

3.Help us to “work out our salvation withfearandtrembling”,bychoosingnevertowillinglyactinungodlyways,wepray.

4.Giveusaheartforthelost,OLord,sothatwemayintercedeandactivelyseektheirsalvation.

5.We pray for all those we know who arenotyetsaved;savethem,OGod,sothattheywillnotstandbeforeyour throneofjudgmentintheirsins.

7th–Psalm122:6-8Praying for Jerusalem

1.O God, open the hearts of modern-dayIsraelis to receive the Gospel and besaved.

2.WeprayforallJewswhobelieveinJesusastheirpromisedMessiah,andpray,HolySpirit,youwillhelpthemreachotherJewsforChrist.

3.MoveinsavingpowerinIsrael,HolySpirit,and also in the surrounding countries,causing Jew and Arab alike to come toknowChristasSaviour.

4.Just as you instruct us, O God, we nowprayforthepeaceandprosperityofyourcity,Jerusalem.

5.As we wait for your return, Lord Jesus,come and take up your throne inJerusalem,wepray.

8th–Psalm123:1-2Servant hearts and God’s guidance

1.Inthebusynessoflife,maywenotforgetalwaystolooktoyou,OGod,toshowusyourperfectways.

2.Helpus,HolySpirit, tobeapeoplewhoseektobeobedienttoallthewaysofourGod.

3.Give us servant hearts like yours, LordJesus.

4.Teach us that giving is always a greaterblessingthanreceiving,wepray.

5.Guideourlivesineverydetail,OGod,aswe submit all our plans and desires toyou.

9th–Psalm123:3-4Suffering for the Lord

1.EnableustotakeourstandfortheGospelandtruth,wepray.

2.Forthoseamonguswhoareridiculedfortheir faith inChrist,makethemastrongwitnessinwordandaction,OLord.

3.Wepray for thosebelievers incountries,where to publicly profess faith in Christbrings great hardship; strengthen andhelpthemintheirtrials,OLord.

4.Weprayforthosecountrieswhichprohibitthepreachingof theGospel; enable theGoodNewsofJesusChristtoreachtheirpopulationsnevertheless,OGod.

5.We pray for those believers around theworldwhoare inprison,simplybecausethey followJesus;beclose to them,andusethemmightilyforyourglory,OGod.

10th–Psalm124:1-5Thankfulness for God’s help

1.O Lord, we thank you for our greatsalvation in Jesus Christ, our Lord andSaviour.

2.As we think on your infinite greatness,O Lord, help us put our momentaryproblemsinperspective,recognisingtheyarenothingincomparisonwiththeglorytocome.

3.When we are conscious of your help inourlives,causeustobequicktotestifyofyourgrace,wepray.

4.Wethankyou,OLord,forallthetimesyouhaveprotectedusfromdangersunknownandunseenbyus.

5.When the enemy has come against uslikeaflood,wethankyou,HolySpirit,forenablingustostandfirm.

11th–Psalm124:6-8God’s great salvation in our lives

1.Mayourgratitudetoyouforallyouhavedone for us, O Lord, be translated intowillingheartstoserveyou.

2.Giveusaburningdesire,OGod,tosharethejoysofyoursalvationwithothers.

3.Weprayforallourevangelismteams,thatyouwouldprosperandbless theirwork,byenablingthemtoleadmanyotherstosalvationinChrist.

4.Weprayforallourmissionaries,thatyouwould help them to bring the Gospel ofJesustomanywhoare,asyet,unsaved.

5.Wepraythatthechurchwouldbeaplace

whereweseepeoplecontinuallycomingto know the Lord, who can save themcompletely.

12th–Psalm125:1-2Trust in God

1.HolySpirit, teachushow to livea lifeofcompletetrustinourGod.

2.Even when we seem to be waiting for alongtime,teachushowtotrusttotallyinyou,OLord.

3.Help us to trust you with our future,alwaysseekingyourguidanceinallwedo,wepray.

4.Causeustotrustyouwithourfinances,OGod,whetherwehavelittleormuch.

5.Forthosesituationswemaybeundergoingright now, where we cannot see anysolution,helpustotrustwholeheartedly,believingyouwillbringtheanswer.

13th–Psalm125:3Praying for non-Christian rulers1.We pray for all the secular leaders of

nations, O Lord, who govern accordingto humanistic values, rather than godlyones; raise up righteous rulers in theirplace.

2.Wepray forallMuslimrulersofnations,who persecute Christians; turn theirhearts,wepray.

3.We bring those leaders of nations,who govern as dictators and persecuteChristians; cause there to be a change,wepray.

4.WeprayforBuddhistandHindunations,whose leaders suppress Christians;remove the hindrances to the spread oftheGospel,OGod.

5.For communist leaders, who seek tooppose the preaching of the Gospel;overruleandcausetheretobemuchfruit,OLord.

14th–Psalm125:4-5Good and evil1.Turn back the tide of evil in our land, O

God.2.Turn around the tide of ungodly laws

comingfromourParliament,wepray.3.Turnaround the teaching inour schools

that encourages sexual promiscuity, OLord.

4.Turn around the growing pressure onChristians inthepublicworkplacenot tostandupopenlyfortheirfaith,wepray.

5.Help all your people to make a standfor the truth, and not to be bullied intoremaining silent in the face of evil, OLord.

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15th–Psalm126:1-3God great among the nations

1.Rise up in the midst of all Europeannations, and do a great work of turningthembacktoChrist,wepray.

2.May thegreatmoveof theHolySpirit inAfrica continue, and touch every nationon that continent with revival power, wepray.

3.CausethegreatmoveoftheHolySpiritinChinaandSouthKoreatospreadtoeverynationinAsia,wepray.

4.MaytherevivalsthathavetouchedsomeSouthAmericancountries,spreadouttothe furthestnorthanddeepestsouthofthewholecontinentofAmerica.

5.BringagreatmoveofyourHolySpirit toAustralia,andtoalltheislandnationsoftheworld,wepray.

16th–Psalm126:4Restore our fortunes1.Foranyofus,whoarestrugglingforany

reason, O Lord, help us get back to aplaceofstrengthandfruitfulness.

2.We pray for all we know who havebackslidden;drawthembacktoyourself,OGod.

3.Forthoseamongstus,whoarestrugglingwith jobs, businesses, or studies; turnaroundtheir fortunesandprosperthem,wepray.

4.We pray for your Church in this land, OGod,andcryouttoyoutoturnarounditsfortunesbybringingagreatrevivalinournation.

5.Wecryouttoyou,OLord,toturnaroundthedesperatespiritualstateofournation,andchangethespiritualclimate.

17th–Psalm126:5-6The fruit of tears1.Forthoseinourmidst,whoareweeping

becauseofagreatpersonalneedintheirlivesatthistime;bringthemtheanswer,wepray.

2.For those who are weeping over theirunsaved familymembers;give them thejoyofseeingtheirsalvation,OGod.

3.For those we know, whose hearts areheavy because they have a serioussickness or ailment; bring total healing,wepray.

4.Forthosewhoarefeelinglonely,eveninthe midst of people around them; heartheir cry for special companionship, OLord.

5.Forthosewhoseheartsaresick,becausehopehasbeendeferred fora long time;maytheynowknowsongsofjoy,wepray.

18th–Psalm127:1-2Partnering with God

1.Teachushowtolearnyourwill,OLord,sothatallwedowillprosper,because it isbuiltbyyou.

2.We pray that in our homes, O God, thateverything we do may be built on ChristastheFoundation,sothatwebuildgodlyhomesandchildren.

3.In all we do in the church, help us todiscern your will, Holy Spirit, so thatnothingweseektobuildwillbeinvain.

4.As we wait on you, O Lord, reveal yourplansandpurposestous,sothatwecanlabourfruitfully.

5.BuildyourChurch inandthroughus,wepray.

19th–Psalm127:3-5Praying for our children

1.We pray for all the boys in the church,OLord,thattheymaynotcomeunderaworldlyinfluenceoftheirpeers,butgrowuplivinggodlylives.

2.Prepare the boys in the church for livesthat will impact our society for good, ineverysphereoflifeandwork,wepray.

3.May all the girls in the church grow upto be great role models to their peers,becausetheymakeastandforthethingsofGod.

4.We pray that all the girls in the churchwouldgrowuptobeinfluentialwomenofGod,toallthosetheymixwith.

5.Weprayforallthechildrengrowingupinoursociety,withouthearingaboutChrist;cause them to hear the Gospel and besaved,OLord.

20th–Psalm128:1-4Walking in the fear of the Lord

1.HolySpirit,convictuswheneverwestrayfromyourstandards-whetherinthought,wordordeed-andhelpusimmediatelytocorrectit.

2.AswewalkinthefearoftheLord,prosperallourlabourswithgreatfruitfulness,wepray.

3.Wepraythatyouwouldprosperuswithagodlyprosperity,OLord,andblessuswiththewisdomabouthowtousethefruitofthatprosperity.

4.Blesseveryfamilymember,andmakeourfamiliesstrongastheywalkaccordingtoyourways,wepray.

5.AsweseektowalkinthefearoftheLord,blessallwedoandallweare,OGod.

21st–Psalm128:5-6God-given prosperity

1.As we seek first your Kingdom andrighteousness, O God, may we see yourprosperityonallwedo.

2.Wepraythatwewouldknowyourdivinefavouronallwedo,OLord.

3.Weprayforalltheyouthinthechurch,OGod,thatyouwouldwatchoverandkeepthemclosetoyouastheygrow.

4.AstheyseektocarryouttheirGod-givenresponsibilities,OLord,wepray for yourgrace and blessing on all mothers andfathersinthechurch.

5.Prosper your church, O Lord, so thatunbelievers may know you are amongstus.

22nd–Psalm129:1-4Overcoming opposition

1.MayyourChurchstandfirminthefaceofopposition,OLord.

2.Wepray forallchurch leaders, that theywouldcontendboldlyforthetruthoftheGospelatalltimes.

3.Help every believer to know their powerandauthority inChrist,andsoalwaystomakeastandforChrist.

4.Deliver yourchurch fromeveryattackoftheenemyofoursouls,wepray.

5.Teachustotakeuptheauthoritywehavebeen given in Jesus’ Name against thepowers of darkness, and to bind theirpowerstoharm.

23rd–Psalm129:5-8Praying for those who oppose the Lord1.WeprayforthosewhoopposetheGospel

and the work of your Church; may theirplansofoppositioncometonothing.

2.For those who are opposing you now, OGod,bringthemtorepentanceasyoudidwithSaulofTarsus,wepray.

3.Give us the wisdom to see through thedevisesofsatan,andsonotbeovercomebythem.

4.Help us to effectively use every spiritualweapon you have given to us to fightspiritualbattles,OLord.

5.Causeustoriseupinpowerfulintercessoryprayer, to bring down every oppositionthatseekstohindertheGospel,wepray.

24th–Psalm130:1-4Forgiveness through Christ1.We thank you, our God, for the great

salvation you have made possible inChrist.

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2.We praise you, O God, that, in Christ,the record of our sins has been forevererased.

3.Holy Spirit, since we have been forgiventotally,causeus,inturn,toforgiveothersinthesameway.

4.Knowing that we have been forgivenin Christ, for any believer who has notforgivenhimselforherself,help themtodosoandbefree,wepray.

5.HelpustoliveintheassurancethatthereisnownocondemnationtothosewhoareinChristJesus,OLord.

25th–Psalm130:5-8Jesus our Redeemer

1.Lord Jesus, we thank you for your lovetowardsus,whichcausedyoutocometothisearthasourgreatRedeemer.

2.We thank you for yourhumility in takingonhumannature,whichenabledyou toliveasGodamongstus.

3.Wethankyou,OGod,forthe“indescribableGift”ofyouronlybegottenSon.

4.May we become people who are asgenerousasyouare,OGod, inwhatwegive.

5.Asyouhavegivenusyourall,OLord,helpus,inturn,togiveyouourall.

26th–Psalm131:1-3Being still before the Lord

1.In the busyness of life, teach us how tocome and be still in your presence, OGod.

2.Aswewaitinyourpresence,enableustolisten towhatyouaresaying tous,HolySpirit,wepray.

3.Keepusfromanypridethatwouldblockourspiritualearsfromhearingyouspeaktous,HolySpirit,weask.

4.Showus,HolySpirit, thetimeswhenweneed to stop striving, and instead beginwaitingonyouintrust.

5.Giveusthechildliketrustinyou,OLord,thatyoulongforustoexhibit.

27th–Psalm132:1-5Committed to the Lord1.May we never live with one foot in the

worldandone in yourKingdom,OLord,butratheralwaysbewhollycommittedtoyou.

2.Bring us to the place, Holy Spirit, wherewecansurrenderoureverythingtoyou.

3.Giveusnorest,OGod,untilweareinthatplaceoftotalsurrendertoyou.

4.Makeuspeopleofourword,OLord,whocanthereforebetrustedineverything.

5.Evenwhenweareexperiencinghardships,OLord,maywenever slipbackwards inourrelationshipwithyou.

28th–Psalm132:6-8Kneeling at his footstool

1.Enable us to humble our hearts beforeyou, O Lord, in the way you desire fromus.

2.May the devil never gain a foothold intoour lives,OLord,becausewe remain inthathumblepositionbeforeyouthatgiveshimnoopportunity.

3.Cause us always to remember that webrought nothing into this world, and willtakenothingfromitexceptwhatyouhavegiventous,OLord,sowehavenocauseforpride.

4.CauseustolearnthepowerofaChristlikeservantleadership,wepray.

5.Allweareandallwehave,wesurrendertoyourightnow,OGod.

29th–Psalm132:9-18Clothed with his righteousness and joy

1.Help us to forsake every desire to sin,whether in thought, word, attitude oraction, O God, and instead live out therighteousnessofChrist.

2.HolySpirit,helpustokeepouroldnaturecrucified,andinsteadtogrowinournewnatureinChrist.

3.CauseustobetruesonsanddaughtersofourheavenlyFather,byexhibitingyourcharacteristics,OGod.

4.AswekeepourfocusfirmlyonourgreatsalvationinChrist,keepusfullofthejoyoftheLordatalltimes,wepray.

5.May that joy of the Lord always be ourstrengthintimesofblessingandintimesoftrouble.

30th–Psalm133:1-3The blessings of unity

1.Weprayforatotalunitybetweenourselvesas individualsandyou,OLord,ensuringwedonothingtobreakthatoneness.

2.Weprayforatotalunitywithinthefamilyofbelievers,OGod,andmaywecontinuallystrivetomaintainthatonenessofspirit.

3.AstheanointingoilrandownfromAaron’shead,mayyouranointingflowthroughusasindividuals,HolySpirit.

4.MaythatsameHolySpiritanointingflowin life-changing and miracle-workingpowerthrougheveryareaofyourChurch,wepray.

5.Inthesamewaythatyouareablessingtous,OLord,maywe,inturn,alwaysbeablessingtoyouandtoothers.

31st–Psalm134:1-3The blessings of worship

1.Lord,helpustoworshipyouwithallourmind,body,soulandspirit,andsobringyouglory.

2.Asweliftourhandsinworship,acceptthefullsurrenderofourselvestoyou.

3.Asweworshipyounow,OLord,maythepresenceofyourHolySpiritbemanifestin and through us in all his glory andpower.

4.Helpus togive youall theworthdue toyour Name, by living constantly as thechildren of God you have enabled us tobe,wepray.

5.Asweworshipyouwithallourbeing,riseupinthemidstofyourchurch,OLord,inpowerandglorytosave,healanddeliver.

PRAYER DIARY for

DECEMBER 2012


NOTES

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AN EXCELLENT GIFT - at any time

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2.Wepray foreveryspiritualneed thatwehavetoday, thatyouwouldhelpusgrowdailyincharactermorelikeChrist.

3.Raise up from amongst us those whocan engage in every ministry needed tofulfilyourwill,OGod,andgiveeachofusthehearttorespondtoyourpromptingtoserve.

4.We ask for a new infilling today of yourHolySpiritthatwilloverflowfromusintothosearounduswhomwemeetandcaninfluence.

5.HolySpirit,wepray that youwouldpourout every gift upon us and amongst us,so that we can use them to build upyourchurchandengageeffectivelyintheGreatCommission.

16th–Proverbs14:5-7The truth

1.Maytellingthetruthbesonaturalforus,OLord,thatwewouldneverbetemptedtodootherwise.

2.May thewordsofourmouthsalwaysbeacceptableinyoursight,OGod.

3.Cause us to read and meditate on yourWord of truth, Holy Spirit, so we canalwaysdiscernbetweenwhatistrueandwhatisfalseteaching.

4.GiveusdeepunderstandingoftheBible,HolySpirit,sowecanbepeoplewhoareabletorightlyhandletheWordoftruth.

5.Help us to contend for the truth of theGospel, even when we are treated withhostilityasaconsequence.

17th–Proverbs14:8-9Giving thought to our ways

1.In every area where we lack wisdom,O Lord, provide us liberally with yourwisdom.

2.Keepus frombeing influenced toact inunwise ways by those who do not knowGod,wepray.

3.Giveusthewisdomtotakegodlycounselfrom others when we are unsure ofdecisionsweneedtomake,OLord.

4.Give us the wisdom to know our godlyboundaries in advance, so that whenundertemptationwewillnotbeovercomebyafoolishdecision,wepray.

5.Keep our tongues from course jokes,questionable speech, or anything wewouldlaterregretsaying,wepray.

18th–Proverbs14:10Overcoming discouragement

1.Cause our faith in you to be so strong,O Lord, that we can handle thediscouragementsthatcomeourway.

2.Helpus tobesensitive to thesituationsofothers,wepray,andquick toseek toencouragethem.

3.Give us the spiritual maturity to be likeDavidwho,whenthingslookedbad,wasableto‘encouragehimselfintheLord’.

4.Enable us to overcome any adversecircumstance, by remembering that youworkallthingstogetherforgoodtothosewholoveyou,OGod.

5.Mayourconfidenceandourtrustalwaysbe solely in our relationship with you, OLord, and never in our circumstancesalone.

19th–Proverbs14:11-12Avoiding the wrong paths

1.HolySpirit,keepusfromstraying,falling,or inanywaydeparting fromthenarrowroadthatleadstoeternallife.

2.We pray for all our children, O Lord,that you would guard and keep themfrom being drawn into ungodly activitiesthroughtelevisionortheInternet.

3.Guard our youths, O God, from everyungodlyinfluencethatwouldseektoleadthemastray.

4.Guardus,HolySpirit,frombeingwronglyinfluenced by our work colleagues orfellowstudents,wepray.

5.Keepourheartsandoureyespureinyoursight,OLord.

20th–Proverbs14:13-14Joy as the fruit of the Spirit

1.Keepusgroundedinyou,OGod,sothatwe are not distracted or knocked offcoursebychangingcircumstances.

2.Help us develop the joy of the HolySpirit, that is not dependant on what ishappening around us, but comes fromourrelationshipwithyou,OLord.

3.Teachus,OGod,howtotrustnotinwhatweareorwhatwepossess,butinwhoweareinyou.

4.Weprayforanyaroundusatthistimewhohave heavy hearts for whatever reason;help us be an encouragement to them,wepray.

5.Causeus tobepeoplewhoalwayshavea positive outlook, O Lord, because weknow that we can do all things throughChristwhostrengthensus.

21st–Proverbs14:15-17Wisdom, self-control and sincerity

1.Giveusgodlywisdominallaffairsofthislife,HolySpirit,andcauseustobepeoplewhomothersseekoutforadvicebecausewehavegodlywisdom.

2.Giveusthewisdomtomasterourtemper,wepray,sothatweactthroughsensiblereasoning, and not out of unbridledemotion.

3.Keepusfromfoolishor recklessactionsandwords,wepray.

4.Help us to be people who are honestand can be trusted in all affairs of life,andmaythisbeagoodtestimonyofyourinfluenceonourlives,OLord.

5.Holy Spirit, make us more like Jesus incharacter,anointingandpower,wepray.

22nd–Proverbs14:18-19Seeking godly knowledge

1.Holy Spirit, give us understanding,knowledgeandrevelationaswereadtheBible,wepray.

2.Giveusthewisdomtosurroundourselveswiththosewhocangiveusgodlyadviceandcounselforalltheaffairsofourlives,wepray.

3.We pray for all the leaders in everydepartmentofthechurch,thatyouwouldinstilknowledge,wisdomandgraceinalltheirdealingswiththosetheylead.

4.We pray for all in the church whoteach children, youth and adults, thatyou would help them to be effective incommunicating your Word and ways, OGod.

5.Give us the grace to be always learningnew things fromyourWord,OLord,andthegracetoputthemintopracticeinourdailylives.

23rd–Proverbs14:20-21Blessing our neighbours and the poor

1.Maywealwaysbepeoplewhoaregratefultoyou,OLord,forwhatwehave,realisingthere are always others who would begladtobeinourposition.

2.Nomatterhowmuchorhowlittlewehave,OGod,maywealwayshavesomethingtogivetoblessothers,wepray.

3.Giveusopenandgeneroushearts,HolySpirit, and make us sensitive to yourleadingastowhenandwhomtohelpintimesofspecialneed.

4.Weprayforourunsavedneighbours,thattheywouldseesomethingofChristinusin all our dealings with them, and thattheywouldbesaved.

5.Help us to love our neighbours asourselves,OLord.

24th–Proverbs14:22Finding God’s will

1.As we wait on you, O Lord, reveal to usyourplansandpurposesforourindividuallives,wepray.

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2.Aswecommiteachdayintoyourhands,OGod,guideourdailyaffairs,sothatwefulfilyourplansandpurposesforeachofthosedays.

3.We pray for the church, O Lord, that wewouldknowyourspecificplansandwillateverytime,sothatwecanbefruitfulinallwedo.

4.Forthoseinthechurch,whoareseekingyour specific will at this time, O Lord,guidethemclearly,wepray.

5.Aswegrowinyou,OGod,causeustobepeoplewhoareabletodiscipleandguideothersintoyourperfectwill.

25th–Proverbs14:23-24Working hard for the Lord

1.Teachustostriveforexcellenceinallwedo,OLord,becausewerepresentyouasambassadorsinthisworld.

2.Helpus toworkhard inall ourareasofemployment, seeking to become modelemployees,asawitnessforyou,OGod.

3.Cause us to remember that all we do,we should do as unto you, O Lord, andas a consequence, we will not lose ourreward.

4.Makeuspeoplewhoareresponsibleandthereforealwaysregardedastrustworthyatourplacesofwork,wepray.

5.For all your people who run their ownbusinesses, we pray that you wouldprosper them, and that they in turn canbe a blessing to employees and to yourwork,OGod.

26th–Proverbs14:25-27The fear of the Lord

1.Mayourlipsalwaystellthetruth,OLord.2.Help us to live in the godly fear of the

Lord,thatcausesustowalkandactwithtotalintegrity,wepray.

3.Give us the courage to always stand upfor the truth,OGod,even ifweare inaminorityofone.

4.May we act, think and talk with theknowledge that you are watching at alltimes, not wanting to grieve you, HolySpirit,byanythingwedo.

5.Makeourlivesasecurefortress,OLord,becausetheenemycanfindnofootholdinourlivesaswewalkinthefearoftheLord.

27th–Proverbs14:28Praying for the lost

1.For any of our children as yet unsaved,savethem,OLord.

2.For any of our parents, who have nevergiven their lives to you, save them, wepray.

3.We pray that you would protect us fromevery plan and every fiery dart of theenemy,sentagainstusandourfamilies,OGod.

4.We pray that you would expose andthwart every plan of the enemy againstthechurch,OLord.

5.Help us to always be men and womenwho can rise above every calamity, andovercomethroughthestrengthofourGodwithinus.

31st–Proverbs14:34-35Praying for the nation

1.Cause your Church to intercedepassionatelyforthetideofunrighteousnessthat issweepingournationtobeturnedback,OGod.

2.Weprayforallthosewhogovernus,thatyouwouldopentheireyes to the follyofreplacinggodlylawswithungodlyones.

3.Weprayforoursocietythatissufferinginmanywaysbecauseofthewaythenationhas turned from God; bring revival, OGod.

4.WepraythatallthechurchesinthisnationwouldreceiveaHolySpiritvisitationthatwillbringamightyrevivaltoeverypartofourland.

5.Cause your Church to so rise up in thepower of prayer, that the powers ofdarknessgrippingournationmaybeputtoflight,wepray.

3.Foranyotherfamilymembers,whodonotyetknowyou,savethem,OGod.

4.We pray that you would save any of ourneighbours who do not yet know you, OLord.

5.We pray for all our work colleagues orstudent colleagues, that youwouldsavethem,OGod.

28th–Proverbs14:29-30Knowing God’s patience and peace

1.Help us, O Lord, to develop patience aspartofthefruitoftheHolySpirit,andtoputitintopracticedaily,wepray.

2.May thepeaceofGod,whichpassesallunderstanding,beevidentinusinallwedo, as we develop peace as part of thefruitoftheHolySpirit.

3.Holy Spirit, keep us from losing ourtemper,wepray,sinceitneverhelpsbutonlyworsensasituation.

4.As we develop the fruit of the Spirit inour lives,OGod,mayweexperiencethebenefits of a healthy body, mind andemotionsalso.

5.Help us root out any unforgiveness orbitternessinourspirits,OLord,whichwillonlycauseusharm.

29th–Proverbs14:31Acting with kindness

1.Enableustobeapeoplewhocanstandintheshoesofothersandunderstandtheirconcerns,wepray.

2.Maythebusynessoflifenotbeacauseofourheartsbeingclosedtothoseinneedaround us, whom we have the ability tohelp,OLord.

3.Causeustobepeoplewhodonotdesireto retaliate when we are badly treated,butrathertorespondwithkindnessandprayingforthosewhomistreatus.

4.Since it is “more blessed to give thanreceive”, teach us how to receive theblessingsthatcomewhenwegive,eitherphysicallyorbyactsofkindness.

5.Aswecontemplatethefateoftheunsaved,maywebemovedwithcompassiontoseethemsaved,wepray.

30th–Proverbs14:32-33God’s favour and protection

1.We commit this day and every day intoyour hands, O Lord, and pray for yourprotectiononus inallwe findourselvesinvolvedin.

2.Mayweknowyourfavouroneveryactivitywewillcarryouttoday,asyouprospertheworkofourhands.

PRAYER DIARY for

JANUARY 2013PRAYER DIARY for

JANUARY 2013


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AN EXCELLENT GIFT - at any time

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Please note: There will be no PrAyEr MEETingS from Monday 24th December to Tuesday 1st January inclusive

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Next Meetings:NO DECEMBER MEETING

Friday 25th January

A night of intercessory prayers, celebration, thanksgiving and praise!

The last FRIDAY of every month

10pm-5am

All-NIGHT PRAyeR MeeTINGS

MonDAy To FriDAyMorning MEETingS

10.00am Meeting in Annexe Room 2 EvEning MEETingS

6.00pm (Hour of Encounter Mondays-Fridays) Foyer 7.30pm (Prayer Explosion Tuesdays only) Foyer

Annexe Room 2 is on the main street to the left of ECC's main doors and can be accessed directly from the street

DaIly rEvivAl PrAyEr MEETings

For personal prayer, why not come along to our

ThE SEconD SunDAy EvEning oF EvEry MONTH AT 6.30pm

• Powerful worship!• Testimonies of God’s provision and healing• Bring all your requests – God specialises in the impossible! Jesus is The answer

PRAYER & HEALING MEETINGS

DECEMBER 2012

2nd

16th

9th

23rd

JANUARY 2013

6th

20th

13th

27th

AMPMAMPM

AMPMAMPM

PRAISE & COMMUNIONSpeaker:PastorRichardBuxton

BAPTISMAL SERVICESpeaker:PastorWilliamAnane-Forkuo

CELEBRATION SERVICESpeaker:PastorRichardBuxton

REVIVAL & HEALING SERVICESpeaker:PastorRajinderBuxton

CELEBRATION SERVICESpeaker:PastorRajinderBuxton

FAMILY SERVICE & CHILDREN'S NATIVITY

Speaker:PastorSamBlake


CAROL SERVICE & CELEBRATIONSpeaker:PastorRuthTrbojevic


NO EVENING SERVICE

SunDAy SErvicES at a glance9am, 11.15am, 6.30pm

Sunday 9th DecemberSunday 13th January

AMPM

AMPM

AMPM

AMPM

30th

PRAISE & COMMUNIONSpeaker:PastorMarkKing

EVENING CELEBRATION & MINISTRYSpeaker:PastorWilliamAnane-Forkuo


REVIVAL & HEALING SERVICESpeaker:PastorRajinderBuxton

CELEBRATION & RECOMMISSIONING SERVICE

Speaker:PastorRichardBuxtonEVENING CELEBRATION & MINISTRY

Speaker:PastorMarkKing


PROPHETIC WORSHIP EVENINGSpeaker:PastorSamBlake


Please note: There will be no PrAyEr MEETingS from Monday 24th December to Tuesday 1st January inclusive

Q


1. THE BIBLE:WebelievetheBible,asoriginallygiven, tobewithouterror, thefullyinspiredandinfallibleWordofGodandthesupremeandfinalauthorityinallmattersoffaithandconduct.2. THE TRINITY:WebelievethattheGodheadexistsco-equallyandco-eternallyinthreePersons,Father,SonandHolySpiritandthattheseThreeareoneGod,sovereignincreation,providenceandredemption.3. THE SAVIOUR: We believe in the true and proper deity of our Lord JesusChrist, in His virgin birth, in His real and complete humanity, in His sinlesslife, in His authoritative teaching, in His substitutionary and atoning sacrificethroughHisshedblood, inHisbodilyresurrection, inHisascensiontotherighthandoftheFather,inHisheavenlyintercessionandHissecondadventtoreceiveHisChurch.4. THE HOLY SPIRIT: We believe in the deity of the Holy Spirit Who proceedsfromtheFatherandtheSonandthenecessityofHiswork inconvictionofsin,repentance,regenerationandsanctification,andthatthebelieverisalsopromisedanenduementofpowerasthegiftofChristthroughthebaptismintheHolySpiritwithsignsfollowing.ThroughthisenduementthebelieverisempoweredforfullerparticipationintheministryoftheChurch,itsworship,evangelismandservice.5. MANKIND:WebelieveintheuniversalsinfulnessofallmankindsincetheFall,renderingmansubjecttoGod'swrathandcondemnation.6. SALVATION:Webelieve in thenecessity for salvationof repentance towardsGod and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ by which the sinner is pardoned and

acceptedas righteous in God's sight. This justification is imputed by the graceofGodbecauseof theatoningworkofChrist, is receivedby faithaloneand isevidencedbytheFruitoftheSpiritandaholylife.7. THE CHURCH: We believe in the spiritual unity and the priesthood of allbelievers in Christ and that these comprise the universal Church, the Body ofChrist.8. THE MINISTRY:WebelieveintheministriesthatChristhassetinHisChurch,namely, apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers, and in thepresentoperationof themanifoldGiftsof theHolySpiritaccording to theNewTestament.9. THE ORDINANCES: We believe in the baptism of believers in water inobediencetothecommandofChristandthecommemorationofChrist'sdeathbytheobservanceoftheLord'sSupperuntilHisreturn.10. THE COMMISSION:Webelievethat theGospelembracestheneedsof thewholemanandthattheChurchisthereforecommissionedtopreachtheGospeltotheworldandtofulfilaministryofhealinganddeliverancetothespiritualandphysicalneedsofmankind.11. THE COMING KING:Webelieveinthepersonal,physicalandvisiblereturnoftheLordJesusChristtoreigninpowerandglory.12. THE FUTURE STATE:Webelieve in theresurrectionof thedeadand in thefinaljudgmentoftheworld,theeternalconsciousblissoftherighteousandtheeternalconsciouspunishmentofthewicked.

FUNDAMENTAL BELIEFS OF THE Elim Pentecostal churches

Ecc Attendance and Finance Statistics

howwehandleourfinancesisimportant,anditreflectswhereourheartsandprioritiesare.Hereare

sevenScripturalprinciplestoguideus,asweseektohonourGod’scommandtoHisChurchtogiveofwhatwehavebeengiven.1)Our giving should be free.JesussaidinMatthew10:8,“Freelyyoureceived,freelygive.”AllthatwehaveisfromGod,andHecommandsustogivefreely.Weoughtnottoexpectsomethinginreturn,asifwearelookingforapprovalorhonourbeforemen,butsimplybecausewehavetheprivilegeofbeingabletogive.2)Giving is to be in secret.Matthew6:3-4says,“Butwhenyougivetothepoor,donotletyourlefthandknowwhatyourrighthandisdoing,sothatyourgivingwillbeinsecret;andyourFather,whoseeswhatisdoneinsecret,willrewardyou.”Wewillalreadyhavehadourrewardinfullifweareseekingtogiveforthesakeoflookinggoodtoothers.

3)We are to give according to our ability (Ezra2:69,Nehemiah5:8).Wecan’tgivewhatwedon’thave,andwearenottoputourfamiliesattheriskofnothavingahometoliveinorfoodtoeat.Godunderstandsthatlifecostsmoney.Wemustmeetourdebtsandexpenses,soastokeepagoodtestimonybeforemen.4)Therearetimes when God will move us to give above what we feel able to do(2Corinthians8:3).Thisisnottheruleorthenorm,butthereareinstanceswhereGodwillcallustogiveinsuchawaythatreallyrequiresfaithonourpart.5)We will reap in proportion to that which we sow.2Corinthians9:6says,“NowthisIsay,hewhosowssparinglywillalsoreapsparingly,andhewhosowsbountifullywillalsoreapbountifully.”Inotherwords,thosewhogivegenerouslywillthemselvesreceivegenerouslyfromGod.NoonecansayexactlyhowGodwillrepayaperson’s

generosity,orexactlywhenitwillhappen,sowemustbewareofanywhoclaimtoknowthemindofGodinregardtoourfinances.6)We are not to give out of duty and against our will,butcheerfully.2Corinthians9:7saysthatourgivingisnottobedone“grudginglyorundercompulsion,forGodlovesacheerfulgiver.”Thegiverisnottryingtosatisfytheharshexpectationsofadeity,norishesupposedtobegivingbegrudginglyandagainsthiswill.Godmovesinapersontogivejoyfullyandcheerfully.7)We give as the Lord leads us individually.2Corinthians9:7says,“Eachonemustdojustashehaspurposedinhisheart.”Wearenottogivebecauseapastor‘motivated’usbysendingusonaguilttripabouttithing.Rather,wearetogivebecausewewanttogive,andbecausewebelievethatGodwouldbehonouredbyourgiving.

A noTE from the Treasurer, Sandra Dawodu

PLEASE NOTE: You can now pay your tithes and offerings through the ECC website at www.ecc.org.uk

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2012 Children Children ATTENDANCE 9.00am 9.00am 11.15am 11.15am 6.30pm FINANCE SEPT OCT02Sep2012 258 32 453 79 197 Tithes &09Sep2012 269 40 438 85 137 Offerings £50,556.87 £46,168.0516Sep2012 273 45 429 81 9023Sep2012 249 34 403 72 111 Building30Sep2012 252 39 361 68 101 Fund £450.00 £90.0007Oct2012 245 40 430 78 72 14Oct2012 243 34 443 85 115 Standing21Oct2012 209 26 459 88 71 Orders £14,229.21 £14,932.2928Oct2012 255 28 434 98 85

GIFT AIDRECEIVEDFORPERIODAPRILTOJUNE2012WAS£31,076.23ThAnK you All For your giving ToWArDS KingDoM WorK!!!


POLISH FELLOWSHIP

Elim Springs

Every Sunday@ 2:30pm

in theAuditorium

(Please use side entrance)

Borough-wide Evangelism11am - 1pm

Saturday 8th December WEST EAling

Saturday 12th JanuaryEALING BROADWAY

For all those wanting to take part in Evangelism, there will be meetings in the Auditorium on:

Sunday 2nd December(after 2nd service)

Sunday 6th January(after 2nd service)

All ArE WElcoME To Join ThE TEAM

lighthouse Evangelism(in front of Ecc)

11am - 1pmThird Saturday of each month

next dates:Saturday 15th December

Saturday 19th January

EvAngEliSM EXPloSion12noon - 2pm

last Wednesday of every monthin front of Ecc

next dates:NO MEETING IN DECEMBER

Wednesday 30th January

GENERAL NOTICES &FORTHCOMING EVENTS

ECCJapanese

FellowshipEvery Sunday @ 2:30pm

in the FoyerFor details, please contact

Aogu & chiSATo TATEyAMA

[email protected]

GENERAL NOTICES &FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Coming soon:An Evening

with

IAN YATES

(of Elim Sound)

chriSTMAS cloSurEThe Ecc office will be cloSED on the

following dates:Monday 24th - Wednesday 26th December

inclusiveand Tuesday 1st January

There will be a SKElETon SErvicE only on:Thursday 27th, Friday 28th, Monday 31st

December

PrAyEr MEETingSThere will be no PrAyEr MEETingS on the

following dates:Monday 24th December to

Tuesday 1st January inclusive(Prayer meetings resume on

Wednesday 2nd January)

our annualRECOMMISSIONING

SERVICEwill take place on

SunDAy 20th JAnuAry 2013

DElivErAncE MEETingSFor ECC attenders: Before coming for

deliverance for the first time, please make an appointment to speak to

Pastor rajinder

NO MEETING IN DECEMBERSaturday 19th January

For non-Ecc attenders:please contact

ELLEL MINISTRIES on 01252 794060

How to...DO LEADERSHIP EVERY DAYfor better results

MONDAY 10th DECEMBERFESTIVECHRISTMASLUNCH12.30pmatBeefeaterHayes

Cost: £9.99 for 2 coursesor £12.99 for 3 courses

LIMITEDSPACESPleaseseeSharonGrantasap

MONDAY 14th JANUARYMATINEEFILM

1.30pmto3.30pmCost: £3.50 for LunchE

VE

RG

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EN

SFellowship &Congratulations Congratulations

toMiriam

WetherallandDreu

Graysonontheir

MarriageBlessing

onSaturday

8thSeptember2012

Meetings start @ 2pm DECEMBER 2012 5th Pastor Lindie 12th Prayer and Praise 19th NO MEETING 26th NO MEETING JANUARY 2013 2nd NO MEETING 9th Annie Morris 16th Merle Aqui 23rd Prayer and Praise 30th Merle Aqui W

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Leadership is one of those things everyone does, but don't

believe they do, or don't even believe they can do or, worse still, deny they do.

From the playground tograndparenting, in every walkof life, at every age in life,in every conceivable activity,leadershipisemployed.What'smore,weactuallyusearangeof leadership skills eitherknowingly or unknowingly.For example, have yougiven someone feedback, orcommentedon’how‘theyhavedone something? Great, thenyouarepractisingleadership!

Herearesometips,whichyoucan practise to build up yourleadershipmuscles.

Direction & Vision:

Direction is pointing theway, whereas vision is aboutimagining an end state ofbenefitfor’you’.God'spromise- of a land flowing with milkand honey - is a clear vision.The beneficiary is the personwho is going to experiencethe vision. God also gaveMoses directions on how toget the people out of Egyptand into the land flowingwithmilk and honey. It’s easy toconfuse direction with vision- I've been there. I've paintedapictureofthewaytoachieveanoutcomethatIwanted,andconvinced myself that I wasbeingvisionary,when in fact I

waspointingoutthedirection.Both vision and direction areimportant.Practiseusingbothappropriately.

Feeding & Inspiring:

Spiritual feeding is aboutlearning great lessons andopening up new insights.Inspirationmaycreatethesamefeelings as feeding, howeverthe purpose of inspiring isto ignite action, to get thingsdone. The team pep talk issupposed to be inspirational,howeversomeleadersusethepep talk to feed, but hopefor inspirational outcomes. Todosomethingnewordifferentrequires inspiration. So doboth:feedandinspire!

Accompanying & Navigating:

Accompanyingmeonajourneymeans we travel togetherand experience everythingtogether. Take the disciples:Jesus was with them; theycould call on Him to calm thestorm. Navigation is aboutplottingthepathforsomeone,likesendingoutthe72,Jesusinformed them where to goandwhattodounderdifferentcircumstances, but He wasn'twiththeminthefleshontheirjourney.Whenmentoring,itcanfeellikeyouaregoingthroughexperiences with the person,butslowdownamoment,youarestillonlythenavigator!Wecan suggest possible options,butultimatelywehavetotrusttheonetravellingtomakethe

decisionsfor their journey, like Jesusdid.

Feedback & Condemnation:

Everyonelovesgivingfeedback,but I've yet to find anyonewho loves receiving feedback!Feedback is interesting: getit right, and the receiver willlove you forever. Get it wrong-condemnthem-andtheywillrightly see things differentlyfrom you. Feedback is aboutshowingsomeonehowspecificdecisionsoractionscontributedto the success or failure ofanoutcome.Condemnation isabout pointing out behavioursor approaches of ’yours‘ thatoffend ’me‘. Condemnation isalways personal. I was oncegivenpersonalfeedbackwhichwent like this: "You're veryarticulate, but some peoplewouldn'twarmtothat."Thisiscondemnation wrapped up as‘feedback’-apraisesandwich!Condemnation is designed totriggerachangeinbehaviourtobenefit the one ’condemning’,whereasfeedbackbenefitsthe’receiver’.

Feelings & Fact:

We all use feelings tounderstand the ’vibes‘ theother person is giving off,whereasbeingfactualisabout

making decisions based onfact rather than on what I'mfeeling. My interpretation ofwhatI'mfeelingmaybe100%wrong. So the challenge hereistoknowhowtoapplyfeeling,andwhentooperatewithfacts.Feelingsshouldrightlygiverisetoadditionalinvestigation,butyou should be very carefulaboutmakingdecisionsbasedon feelings. My advice wouldbe to invite the Holy Spirit intocontrol.

Now, use these tips at home,at work, and at church, andsee your leadership ‘cred’increase!

Godbless.

How to...DO LEADERSHIP EVERY DAYfor better results

PRACTICAL TRUTHS

roy McEWEn


EALING CHRISTIAN CENTRE does not in any way endorse any

advertised company or products, and cannot

guarantee rates, levels of service or workmanship

Advertisingspaceisofferedonafirstcome,firstservedbasis. ECCreservestherighttopublishtheadvertwherespace isavailable,and not necessarily on the Classifiedspage. ECC reserves the right to alter anyadvertisement to improve reproductionquality. ECC excludes liability for any lossdue to non-insertion or any errors in theadvertisement. ECC reserves the right torefusepublicationofanyadvert that itdoesnot deem suitable for Grapevine magazine;

theEditor-in-Chief'sdecisionisfinal.

ADVERTISE YOUR GOODS OR SERVICES - Call020 8840 7508

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And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet (help suitable) for him. Genesis 2:19-20 KJV.

This took quite a longtime, and sometimesAdam thought he

would run out of names:Leonard the Lion, Ellie theElephant, Polly the Parrotand so on. Then most of theanimalsjustwanderedoff.Buttwotooka likingtoAdamandstayed with him: Lammy theLamb and Log the Dog. Logthe Dog is where the famoussaying ‘Let sleeping Logs lie’came from, though peoplesoon forgot that Adam had adogcalledLog,andthesayingbecame ‘Let sleeping dogslie’!

It soon became clear thatanimals were not going tohelp make Adam loneliness-proof, soGodmadeawoman(Eve)forhimsohewouldn’tbelonely - not so he could bossheraround.Sheturnedouttobecapableofmakingherown

decisions anyway. She likedanimals, though, which wasa good job because LammyandLogweren’tleavingonheraccount.Forawhileeverythingin the Garden was rosy. Buttherewasasnakeinthegrass.And he could talk, albeit witha slight hiss. He persuadedEve to eat fruit from a treewhichGodhadtoldAdamtheyshould NEVER eat of. Adamate as well.Disaster.

Then theyknew theywere naked,and madesome shabbyclothes fromleaves. Godsaid,“Therewillhave to be ablood sacrificetoatoneforthisdisobedience(sin), and I’llmakeyousomeproper clothes,too. Go andget Lammy theLamb.”

“What!” cried Adam and Eve.But thedeedhad tobedone.They left the Garden wearingclothes made from Lammy,followed by a miserable Log,who was already missingLammy.

Over the centuries, thereweremanyLammytheLambs

sacrificedtoatoneforsinstheyhadn’t actually committed.But the animals weren’t man,sotheycouldn’t reallypaytheprice for man. There was noperfect person, and mankindwasreallystuck.

So about two thousand yearsago,GodtheSon(Jesus)cameas Man, born of Holy Spiritand a young Jewish woman

named Mary.He was born inthe inn’sstablein the town ofBethlehem.

The road toCalvary startedt h i r t y - t h r e eyears beforeGood Fridayat Bethlehem,whenJesustheperfect MancameasalittleBaby - just likeyou and I did.Except thatHe had no sinto taint Him.

He was the perfect sacrificefor all our sin, and loves usenough to have become theSacrificialLambforeachofusindividually.

Christmas is a brilliantopportunity to spread thisGoodNews.Wecantellfamily,friends,workcolleagues,fellowstudents-anybodyreally-thatChristmas is the beginning of

He was the perfect sacrifice

for all our sin, and loves us

enough to have become the

Sacrificial Lamb for each of us

individually.

Adam Named The Animals(One man's look at the Christmas Story)

JohnBaker

the Calvary Road. When theyaskwhatdoyoumean,you’rein.

Tellthem.

You needn’t mention LammytheLamborLogtheDogifyoudon’twantto,butyoucantellthem about Heaven and Hell,andwhyJesuscame. Please,Christmas is a wonderfulevangelisticopportunity.

Tellthem.


In the Lord’s vision given to Ezekiel, of a river of His presence

flowing from the temple sanctuary, we have a picture of the Christian’s life as God intends.

ThetempleistheBodyofChristinthenewcovenant,andtheriveristhepresenceoftheLordflowingfromwithinus(John7:37-39).

ThenatureoftheLord’spresenceinabelieveristogetdeeperandstrongerasitflowsoutwards.Asitflowsbeyondthechurch’swalls,thepresenceoftheLordinusirrigatesandtransformstheentirelandscape,makingsocietyfruitfulwherevertheSpiritflows.

“Go with the flow … Flow with the go!”

Themorewestepout;makingourselvesknown;activatingourfaith,andmakingthepresenceofJesusknown,thestrongerandmorefearlesswebecome.AsoneyoungChristianrecentlysaidtome,“When people see us as fearless, they receive us.”

TheWordofGodinRomans8:19tellsusthatcreationiswaitingforthechildrenofGodtoriseupandmakethemselvesknown.Howareyougoingtodoit?Howare

yougoingtoactivateyourfaithtowardtheunsavedworld?It’svitalthatyoustepoutinfaith,butsteppingoutaloneisnotsufficient.YouneedtostepoutwiththeflowofthepresenceoftheSpiritofGod.Weneedtostepoutwiththe“RiverofGod”–thepresenceandpoweroftheHolySpirit-confidentinwhoGodhasmadeyoutobeinChrist,andtheauthorityyouhaveinHim.

Ifwestepoutwitha“dryriverbed”,wearemovingout,butwearenotactivatingourfaithintheflowoftheHolySpirit.OurassignmentfromtheLordistostepoutandbecarriersoftheSpirit’spresence,releasinguponthemanencounterwithHispresence.“Come,HolySpirit!”

Thenon-Christianworlddoesn’tneedmorewordsaboutreligiousbeliefs,but

anexperienceoftheLord’spresence,demonstratingthatJesusisreal.Neverhavetherebeensuchopportunitiestoeffectchangeinourworld,butit’sironicthatsomanypeopleintheWestarepursuingvicariousadventurethroughentertainment,andyetthey’rereluctanttogetoutoftheirarmchairs.PassiveChristiansareleavingaspiritualvacuumforactivistsofotherfaithstofill.

Canwereallydescribethisasthe“Bride”preparingherselfwithoutspotorwrinkleforthereturnofherLord?

We’retoldthatoverhalftheworldissufferingextremepoverty,andmorepeoplearelivingasslavesthanatanyothertimeinhistory.What’shappeninginthenaturalisareflectionofwhat’shappeninginthespiritual:povertyof

spirit,andslavestosin’sstrongholds.

There’sneverbeensuchaneedforthemenandwomenofJesusChristtoriseup,activatetheirfaith,andmakeagreaterdifference.

ThefearofinadequacyliesattheheartofmuchofwhatChristiansdoordon’tdo:thefearofgettingitwrong,andrejectionbyothersifwetrytostepoutwiththeassignmentsGodsetsbeforeus.“I’llsuffershame.I’llbedisgraced.I’llbehumiliated!”Butthetruthis,“When people see us as fearless, they receive us!”

Whatwedoordon’tdorevealsthetrueconditionofourfaithandtrustintheLord,andhowmuchwehaveallowedHimtobetheSourceofourlives.

“Go with the flow… Flow with the go!”

Passive christians are leaving a spiritual vacuum for activists of other faiths to fill.

There’s never been such a need for

the men and women of

Jesus christ to rise up,

activate their faith, and make a greater

difference.

GO WITH THE FLOW!

PastorJohn STArr

Q

28 GRAPEVINE • Issue 59 • December 2012 / January 2013

As we carry out our mission to "Go and make disciples ofallnations,baptisingthemintheNameoftheFatherandof the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to

obeyeverythingIhavecommandedyou...” (Matthew28:19-20), itisimperativethatwetrainandequipourteacherssothatthey,inturn,caneffectivelyteach,motivate,influence,trainandequipourchildrenhereatECC.

We were blessed to have had the opportunity to listen and learnfromOlly Goldenberg,authorofThe Josiah Generation;Children’sPastor at Kensington Temple, London, and founder/leaderof theChildrenCanministry.The Teachers’ Workshop, which was structured around five keyareasknownastheFiveWs,wastrulyinformative,interactiveandmotivational. Itempoweredtheteacherstobemorecreative,andequipped them with new approaches on teaching by providing aframeworktoguidethemintheirapproach.WiththeapplicationoftheFiveWsinourSundaySchoolclasses,theteacherswillbeabletoassistinthespiritualgrowthofeverychildintheirclass,andgrowthemasbalancedbelievers.

The Five Ws are as follows:

1. Welcome builds a sense offellowshipandbelonging.

2. Worship leads the children toworshipGodinspiritandintruth.

3. WordstudiesGod’sWord,andprepareschildrentoliveitoutintheirdailylives.

4. Warfareleadsthechildreninprayer.5. Witness encourages thechildrenandyoungpeople to look

outfromthegrouptothosewhodon’tknowGod.

The participants were truly fired up after taking part in the fun,engagingandveryenlighteningsession.

Maternity LeaveSisterErnestinaCharles-Obi,ECCChildren’sMinistryCoordinator,isnowonmaternityleave.Mrs Josephine MillsandAnn Kowillcoverforherwhilesheisonleave.

OnbehalfoftheChildren’sMinistryTeam,we’dliketothankSisterErnestina,forheryearsofgreatleadership,hardwork,dedication,and commitment thus far - most especially to the Children’sMinistry.Wethankherforgivingallherbest,andwecongratulateherasshesoonwelcomeshernewbundleofjoy!

Teachers’ Workshop with olly goldenberg

5Ws

CHIL

DR

EN'S

MIN

ISTR

IES

Ann Ko

December 2012 / January 2013 • Issue 59 • GRAPEVINE 29


‘An Encounter Weekend? Wow! I never expected this could have

happened to me. I really feel like a new person, so much lighter and

happier. I am able to read my Bible and pray more since I’ve been on the

Encounter. What an amazing God; my experience with Him was simply

awesome.’

‘I never knew I carried that problem, not until the Holy

Spirit came upon me and did an amazing work - inside out.’

‘I will never be the same again. I waited for ten years to get rid of that problem, and the Holy Spirit did it so quickly when I allowed

Him.’

Mydearfriends,thesewerejustsomeofthemanycomments

wereceivedaswefinishedtheawesomeweekend.ForthethreedaysawayatthebeautifulHighleighConferenceCentre,therewerenohiddenstonesorhumanagendasthatwerenotleftunturned,asGod’sHolySpiritsweptthroughtheEncountermeetingsovertheyieldingwomen.Somewept,somecried,somelaughed,everyonereflected,butGoddidHiswork!Thewomencamebacksorefreshed,havinggotridofallkindsofbaggages,andsomefoundithardtogetbacktorealitybecausetheatmospherewhichwehadjustleftattheEncounterWeekendwaselectric!

PleasebookyourplaceforthenextHolySpiritEncounterWeekendnow!Firstcomefirstservebasis.PleaseseeyourCellleaderforabookingform.

PastorRajinder Buxton

Women'sEncounTErWeekend 2012

BeingaguideattheWomen’sEncounterWeekendisbotha

privilegeandachallenge.

WeserveGodwithfaith,prayerandtheanointingoftheHolySpirit.Beingaguidemeansservingothers,whilefocusingonJesusandseekingHiscounselforeachsituationthatdevelopsduringtheEncounterWeekend.WecommitourselvestoseekingGod’splansthroughprayerandfastingduringthewholeyear.HefillsuswithHisloveandcompassion,equippingusaccordingtoHisplanstooverflowtoothers.Therefore,guidesareJesus’facilitatorsandthegloryisHis.

Itwasadelighttohearthedelegates’testimoniesabouttheirencounterwithJesusandthecontinuedworkintheirlives.

Lucia BarrierosPrimaryLeader

"Arise, walk through your inheritance; see that it is

good ..receive all My words so that you experience

deep healing and a closeness with Me..."

(The word for Encounter 2012)

Encounter2012promisedtobeatimetomeetwithGod.Itwasmore

thanthat.Likeneverbefore,itwasatimewhenGodministeredtowomen,removingbarriers,andgivingpeacetoallwhoattended.

PraiseGod!Wepromisedthewomenastress-freeweekend,andthewomenconfirmedthatitwasindeedastress-freeweekendwithaHolySpiritencounter.

GodprovedthatHisWordissharperthanadouble-edgedsword,andthereisnothingthatcanbecomparedtoHim.

JesusistheAlphaandOmega,andwecandonothingwithoutHim.JesushonoursusasweabideinHim.AsHesaysinHisWordinJohn15:7,‘IfyouabideinMeandMywordsabideinyou,youwillaskwhatyoudesireanditshallbedoneforyou’.Jesuspromisesuslimitlessblessing.Allwehavetodois

surrendertoHim,andallowGodtobeGodthroughtheworkoftheHolySpirit.

God’sblessingwasontheEncounter.Wehadbeautifulweather,sceneryandhealthyfood,aswellasaccommodation.Mostofall,God’spresenceenabledustoexperienceatasteofHeaven.

Women,areyoureadytoexperienceatasteofHeavenforyourselfin2013?ThenextWomen’sEncounterisfrom27thto29thSeptember2013.PleasecollectyourEncounterformfromyourDiscipleshipCellleader.IfyouarenotinaCell,joinone,andyourCellleaderwillgiveyoumoreinformation.

Stephanie AntoinePrimaryLeader

"it was as though the lord himself was standing in the midst of us"


here are some experiences testifying to God’s goodness:

“I have been a Christian for some years, but I hadn’t been baptised in the holy Spirit. But now I have, and am overjoyed and feel blessed. i thank god for making me whole ... i realised that it is not about me. It’s about Him

and giving Him the glory.” Anne Murray

“God healed my emotions from pain, hurt and unforgiveness. i felt a release from the past, and this led to a fresh encounter with god the holy Spirit. i also got healed in my physical body...”

Josephine laeye

“I felt very light when I left the Encounter, and i also felt a deep peace in my spirit,

soul and body.” Mylène Duevi

“When I felt that I had received enough ministry, the lord was ready to take me even deeper...i feel 100lbs lighter, unburdened, unworried and happy...i am ready to let go, and let god

have His way.” Marcia neutrice

Psalm 122v1: ‘I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.”’

IthanktheLordforchoosingmetodoHiswork,andIalsowanttothankPastorRajinderforplacingmeintothisministry.IwentontheOctober

Encounterasaguide(partoftheMinistryTeam).AsIministeredtoothers,Godministeredtome!Ihavebeenonseveralencounters,butthisEncounterwasdifferent.Aswithallthepreviousencounters,theHolySpiritwasthere;therewasloveandunity,andthedelegates'needsweremet.Thisonewasveryspecialforme,asitwasasthoughtheheavenswereopen,andtheLordHimselfwasstandingthereinthemidstofus.IpersonallywitnessedmorebreakthroughsandtestimoniesthanIhaveseenorheardbefore.IencourageallladiestoprayandasktheLordtoprovidewhatevertheyneed,tobeabletogoononeoftheencounters.WhenyougoonanEncounterWeekend,whenyouletgoandletGodin,Hewillbe"nothingmore,nothingelse,nothinglessthanabletomeetALLyourneeds".MaytheLordcontinuetoblessandguideeachoneofusinJesus'Name.

Minette ThomasPrimaryLeader

"it was as though the lord himself was standing in the midst of us"

Book your place on next year'sEncounter Weekend:

Friday 27th to Sunday 29th September 2013

CARIBBEAN EVENING 2012

EALING CHRISTIAN CENTRE (ECC) is part of the Elim Pentecostal family of churches, of which there are around 600 in the UK,

and which is in fellowship with approximately 8000 churches worldwide. Year by year, ECC has continued to grow steadily with people coming from every continent, joyfully blending into a multi-ethnic family, drawn from approx 100 nationalities. With its emphasis on prayer, worship, fellowship, discipleship and evangelism, the church seeks to live out its motto.

Now hundreds of Christians - of all ages and backgrounds - meet together for lively celebration on Sundays in the beautifully-restored decor of the 1200-seater auditorium, a former Odeon cinema, and in small Discipleship Cell groups during the week.

one family

of many nations

proclaiming

one gospel

through

many disciples

Weekly MeeTINGS

SUNDAYS09.00 FIRST MORNING SERVICE09.30 LittleSeekers(Age2-5yrs)09.30 Finders(Age6-10yrs)09.30 TeensTalk(Schoolyears7-11) - single gender classes11.15 SECOND MORNING SERVICE11.45 Crèche(18mths-3yrs) Adventurers(Nursery3-4yrs) Discoverers(Age5yrs) Explorers(Schoolyears1&2) Investigators (Schoolyears3&4) Pioneers(Schoolyears5&6)11.45 NuTalk(Schoolyears7&8) Talkin'God (Schoolyears9,10&11) - single gender classes14.30 Polish Church Service14.30 Japanese Church Service18.30 SUNDAY NIGHTS AT THE CENTRE (seepage21fordetails)20.00 RefreshmentsinCoffeeLounge

MONDAYS10.00-12.00 DailyPrayerMeeting18.00-19.00DailyPrayerMeeting

TUESDAYS10.00-12.00 DailyPrayerMeeting19.30-21.15 Tuesday Night Prayer Explosion

WEDNESDAYS10.00-12.00 DailyPrayerMeeting14.00 WednesdayAfternoonFellowship18.00-19.00 DailyPrayerMeeting

THURSDAYS10.00-12.00 DailyPrayerMeeting19.00-21.30 EITC-BibleCollege Registrationrequired18.00-19.00 DailyPrayerMeeting

FRIDAYS10.00-12.00 DailyPrayerMeeting18.00-19.00 DailyPrayerMeeting19.00-21.30 EITC-BibleCollege Registrationrequired22.00-05.00 All-NightPrayerMeeting (LastFridayofeverymonth)

SATURDAYS11.00-13.00 StreetEvangelism

Prayer • Teaching • Praise & Worship • Evangelism & Missions • Fellowship for all AgesSchool oF MiniSTry (teaching ministry) | PrAyEr & hEAling | DElivErAncE

DiSciPlEShiP cEllS | chilDrEn & youTh MiniSTriES | EvErgrEEnS (Ministry for the retired)

For further information, tel 020 8840 7508; email [email protected], or visit www.ecc.org.ukEALING CHRISTIAN CENTRE • 268 Northfield Avenue • Ealing • London W5 4UB

Registered Charity No. 251549

ecc grapevine dec/jan 2012 - issue 59

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