“So then, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence but even more in my absence, continue working out your salvation with awe and reverence, for the one bringing forth in you both the desire and the effort—for the sake of his good pleasure—is God.” Philippians 2:12-13 NET
Father God,
Paul wrote to the fellowship of believers in Philippi knowing they needed encouragement. I thrive on encouragement. He also wanted to be encouraged by them, that they were willingly living for God even though no one was overseeing them. Sometimes it is what we do when no one is watching that You know what we are really like Lord.
When I was small I remember thinking it must fantastic not having parents and rules. I could put as much syrup on my porridge as I wanted and have a day off school whenever science was on the timetable. But we need Your parental direction for our own good.
It is great to have our ministers and friends encouraging us. And to encourage them. But when everyone has gone home and when we get up in the morning and no one is watching us -that is when we live our faith. Saying good morning because we want You in our day. Asking You to help organise and prioritise. Listening for Your voice challenging, correcting and forgiving us. Give us the desire to please You and be blessed. And thank you for the times You send heavens syrup in abundance.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
Father God,
For our family, friends, neighbours, those we promised to pray for.
For our fellowship members, our ministers.
For our king and His family and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For our Government, advisors, diplomats and ambassadors.
For Ukraine and Russia. Lord send the end of war soon.
For Israel, Lebanon, the Middle East. Countries in conflict.
For world leaders.
For Nye Bevan (Born 15th Nov. 1807) Minister for Health, in the post-war government, who spearheaded establishment of NHS. Thanksgiving and raise up new visionaries.
For leaders to spearhead future success of NHS.
For leaders to spearhead the development of police force, antiterrorist units and national security.
For us, thank you that You know and understand us. Give us grace for today, strength and light.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Friday 15th November 2024
In the morning when I rise,
In the morning when I rise,
In the morning when I rise,
Give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus, give me Jesus.
You may have all this world, give me Jesus.
And when I am alone,
Oh when I am alone
And when I am alone
Give me Jesus.
And when I come to die,
Oh and when I come to die,
And when I come to die,
Give me Jesus.
“Give Me Jesus” was popular among African American congregations. Slave Songs of the United States (1867) mentions that former slaves in South Carolina, sang it. Although, the song may not have originated solely with slaves, as it was published previously by the Methodists.