Tuesday Prayer

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Due to current restrictions we will NOT be meeting in the church building until further notice. However, we will be connecting on Zoom instead. Whether you were a regular, normally came to the afternoon prayer meeting, or have never been before, you're welcome to join us.

Even if you're unable to access Zoom, you can still join with us - Praise & Prayer Outlines will continue to be posted below (these can be used at any time, not just 7.30pm on a Tuesday, but we would encourage you to pray then, or at 2.15pm, so that our prayers are combined together, creating a sense of unity even though we are apart).

Tuesday Prayer 20th July 2021

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One Way

27 Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, 'Who do people say I am?''

28 They replied, 'Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.'

29 'But what about you?' he asked. 'Who do you say I am?'

Peter answered, 'You are the Messiah.'

30 Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.

31 He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again. 32 He spoke plainly about this, and Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him.

33 But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. 'Get behind me, Satan!' he said. 'You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.'

Devotion:

When Jesus asked them: 'who do you say I am?', there were only really two answers:

1. A wise human like many who had come before, but who would be flawed and fail to fulfil their potential. (Wrong Answer!)

2. The Saviour of the World. (CORRECT answer!)

Peter starts well when he answers 'The Messiah' (which means 'anointed one') but then instead of then learning from His Messiah what that means, he tries to tell Jesus that He is being the 'anointed one' in the wrong way!

When we read Jesus' response, we might think that He is unnecessarily harsh as He refers to his close friend and disciple using the name of the devil! But Jesus was making a point about Peter's thinking here when he used that term. Jesus wasn't implying a demonic or satanic spiritual presence, but He was saying that Peter's mindset was aligned with the way the devil wants us to think.

The work of Satan has always been to try and make us think we know better than God. That was Peter's 'sin' (big mistake) here - he thought that his idea of the messiah - a human idea of a conquering war leader who would overthrow the Roman Empire - was better than God's plan for the cross.

Prayer:

As we pray tonight, we must remember to simply ask God to have His way in all of the prayers we bring before Him.

Let's try not to presume we know what God should do, but pray as Jesus himself did in the garden of Gethsemane before He went to the cross, saying:

"Yet not my will, but yours be done."

Luke 22:42b

As I'll be sharing more on Sunday, serving God begins with surrender.

Listen to this song about the greatness of God and His perfect ways:

Let's pray using these 3 themes for guidance:

1. Prayers of surrender - ask God to help you serve Him and forgive you for the times when you fail.

2. Prayers of thanks and praise for who He is, all He has done and all He is yet to do.

3. Prayers of Intercession - asking God to step into the unjust, unpleasant and dark situations faced by our world.

Tuesday Prayer 13th July 2021

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Philippians 3:7-14 (NIV)

7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ-the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ-yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

On Sunday, we had two big finals take place - the Wimbledon men's singles and the Euro 2020 final. Those involved had set their goals of being there to win from some time ago, pressing and indeed straining with everything in mind and body to achieve their ultimate prize. But that prize is but a moment in time and soon becomes no more than a lasting memory. Our goal is far more important because it lasts for all eternity and determines the eternal salvation of others. In this passage Paul reminds us how all his past achievement pale into insignificance when compared to what he has found in Christ Jesus.

As we listen to this song, let's remind ourselves what Jesus has done for us and that He has given us a greater goal that exceeds any earthly achievement and that He will help us individually and as the body of Christ to press on towards that goal.

A time of reflection - what has God been saying to us lately?

Reflecting on Sunday's message, have we been challenged on kingdom building over comfort building? God brought us into His kingdom to build kingdom and we all have a part to play in this. His great commission for us to make disciples - which means we need to be disciples in the first place. (Matthew 28:19-20). Pray that we will be a church that seeks first His kingdom, first even at the expense of our own comfort. Pray that God will reveal His goals for us as we seek Him.

Pray for the members meeting this evening. Pray that decisions made will be kingdom building.

Tuesday Prayer 6th July 2021

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Do you feel distracted? There seems to be so much going on at the moment that can distract us. Football!! The relentless covid pandemic and restrictions, family issues including illnesses or perhaps work that seems to be taking over your life.

I want us to take some time today to try and push all this to one side and to focus our hearts and minds on Jesus.

Hebrews 12: 1-3

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Romans 12:2

Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.

As we take time to listen to this song, really try to release all the outside pressures that are on us at the moment, everything that is taking our focus off what is really important, listening to God and trusting in Him being filled with Holy Spirit and understanding what He wants us to do and who He wants us to be.

We pray for others that don't have that peace and knowledge of Christ's love and for opportunities to allow us to share this with them, we pray for our families and friends, for our Church family and for the wider Bentley community too, we ask for wisdom and understanding as we begin to meet with more people again and engage with others.

We pray for the Special Church Members meeting next week, that even though we are online, many will participate, we lift up our prayers for Hannah and ask God for His wisdom and guidance as we look at this role, we give thanks that Hannah has been amazing throughout this whole time we have been online, we also give thanks for her talent, contribution and perseverance as she has co-ordinated so many things and for everything she has done so far.

We finally take time to pray for the government as they continue with the final phase of easing restrictions, dare we dream that things can be back to 'normal' We may not know but God does, we must continue to trust in Him that He will guide us back together.

Tuesday Prayer 29th June 2021

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As you come to pray take time to think about what Jesus means to you. What you know about him, your experience of him, his forgiveness, mercy, love, comfort etc.

Reflect on your relationship with Jesus. How you get close to him as you read the Bible, worship and pray.

Psalm 119 expresses the delight in following God's ways, acknowledging our frailty and proclaiming His greatness.

V 103 -105        How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey. Your commandments give me understanding; no wonder I hate every false way of life. Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

Spend some time in worship, praise and thanksgiving.

Pray for those you know who do not have a relationship with Jesus. Ask for wisdom and boldness to witness to them and journey with them on their steps to declare Jesus as Lord and Saviour.

Pray for renew 127 as relationships are formed and God's love is shown in this place where it is 'okay not to be okay'. Also, for wisdom in preparing to open on other days.

Pray for Food Bank as it meets the needs of those in food poverty. As plans are made to open up for self-referral, pray for volunteers and food supplies.

As we make plans for meeting together as church on Sundays, pray for those involved in the serving opportunities:

• Sunday Hospitality Team

• Encounter Team

• Explore Team

• Connect Team

• Sunday Service Graphics

• Renew 127

• Food Bank

• Open the Book

• Life Groups

Are you the answer to your prayers?

God will never let you down, He is always faithful.

Tuesday Prayer 22nd June 2021

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Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter. Who is the King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty; the Lord, invincible in battle.

Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter. Who is the King of glory? The Lord of Heaven's Armies - he is the King of glory. (Psalm 24:7-10 NLT)

These verses come from last week's Psalm of the Week. It's quite possible that this Psalm was written for when King David brought the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem from the house of Obed-Edom. The Ark of God's Presence was being returned to its rightful place and the city was being called to open up and allow entrance.

As I read and meditated on the Psalm, and also looked ahead to tonight's prayer meeting, I felt both a challenge and an encouragement from God's Holy Spirit. The challenge was to ensure that every area of my life was open to God's presence, and the encouragement was to command that the gates and doors of Bentley, long-held closed by the forces of darkness, be opened up to admit God's presence in all His glory and power and majesty.

The Psalm actually begins with the following:

The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters. Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god. They will receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God their Saviour. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, God of Jacob. (Psalm 24:1-6 NLT)

Using the song, let's lift our voices in praise and adoration of our Glorious God and King, opening up all of ourselves to His awesome presence

Our praise should naturally lead us into thanksgiving, and the Psalm gives us lots of things to be thankful for:

• He made the world. The earth and all that is in it is His. We can be confident of his upholding power and authority.

• He has made every provision. He even made a way for us to stand in His presence, with clean hands and pure heart, because of Jesus' sacrifice.

• He is the one who has "blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ". (Ephesians 1:3 NIV)

• And not just spiritual blessings - "He himself gives life and breath to everything, and he satisfies every need." (Acts 17:25b NLT)

From thanksgiving, move into praying for Bentley, Renew 127, Food Bank, Open the Book, using our God-given authority to command that doors and gates be open to the King of Glory. Pray also for unsaved family, friends, neighbours, work colleagues.

Finally, pray for openings for God's presence to be at work in every sphere of our national life - in government, education, health, business, finance, etc, etc.

To finish, use this song to again give honour, glory and worship to our Holy God, and to re-affirm our love and commitment to serving Him everywhere He has placed us or calls us to go

Tuesday Prayer 15th June 2021

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Today I would like us to focus on THANKGIVING, throughout our prayer time, rather than just during a specific time of pray. Let's celebrate what our God does for us in every aspect of our lives.

Let us take time to relax and clear our mind from our day to day activities. Open our hearts and minds to hear what our Lord God is saying to us.

If you have something to share, please do so now

"For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him." (Colossians 1:16)

We continue today by acknowledging who God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit are. That they are our confidants, the ones who we bring our deepest hopes, ambitions, regrets and fears to. God created all things through and for Himself, He alone has the power to hear all our prayers and answer them. It is right and proper that when we pray, we start by acknowledging Who we are talking with and what makes Him unique.

Offer up your prayers

It is easy to show love to our friends. Let's pray for all our neighbours

"We love because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19)

"'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbour as yourself.'" (Matthew 22:37-38)

The only reason we can love God, ourselves or those around us is that God loved us first. He made a way for us to have a relationship with Him and experience His love so that we could be changed by it and love others as a result. Do not simply think of the people you like, who are like you or physically close to you, such as our neighbours. God certainly wants us to love and pray for them. Jesus takes it a step further, showing us a person who crossed the barriers between people who were not alike, who were even considered enemies, as the example of how to love. (The Good Samaritan) He is calling us to love not just those we choose to be a part of our life but everyone we come across.

Here is a challenge: There is no clearer or simpler way to start to love someone in our life than to approach God on their behalf. Perhaps we could make a list of people in our life whom we are praying for or want to pray for. Look over the list. Are the

people on it mostly like us in ways that make us feel safe being in relationship with them?

"The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Saviour God wants us to live." (1 Timothy 2:1-3, The Message)

Here, Paul encourages Jesus' Jewish followers, to pray for their oppressors. This was controversial, to say the least. Paul explains that because God wants everyone to hear the invitation to become part of His family, the early church needed to pray for the salvation and well-being, even of their perceived enemies.

Here and now this command is as relevant as ever. It's easy to pray for political and cultural leaders that we agree with. We need to pray for those whom we disagree with?

Right now, leaders across the world are caught up in conflict with each other and with the communities they represent. In Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu has been replaced as Prime Minister after 15years. In our own country the Prime Minister has just announced a further period of restrictions in relation to Covid.

Let us pray for situations around the world. We may not have any influence ourselves or agree with policies and actions that are being taken, but we do trust and have faith in the King of Kings, who rules over all.

As we close today, remember that we go into this coming week we need fear no one. There may still be troubles for us, but God and his angel armies are always by our side.

May God bless you all. Amen

Tuesday Prayer 8th June 2021

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Tonight we're going to pray from the position of God's supreme authority. When God led His people from slavery in Egypt and destroyed the armies of the Egyptians, Miriam (Moses' Sister) sang a song containing the words below:

Who compares with you among gods, O GOD?

Who compares with you in power, in holy majesty,

In awesome praises, wonder-working God?

(Exodus 15:11)

The thing we must recognise about this story is that the liberation of the Israelites was not simply a physical liberation from slavery, but spiritual freedom from the gods of the Egyptians and from a place in which they could not live according to the will of Yahweh (the name that God gave when Moses asked: 'what is your name?').

The victory was not just over the Egyptian army, but the idea of their false gods.

As we pray tonight, we're going to pray for God's World, God's Will and God's War. Sing or listen to the song 'Our God is Greater' at the link below...

God's World The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters. (Psalm 24:1-2)

Begin by praying for situations in the world where we need God's hand to be at work. Issues such as:

• Poverty.

• Sickness and disease.

• Disaster relief.

• Those suffering from mental illness.

God's Will Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2)

Pray for God's will, not the will of mankind, to be done on earth:

• Justice and fairness for those who are marginalized and oppressed.

• His guidance for our church and lives.

• For people to submit to His love and choose to follow Him.

God's War For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (Ephesians 6:12)

Pray that God's victory over evil, sin and death would be more fully realized on the earth:

• Pray for the persecuted church.

• Pray that evil spiritual forces and powers would have no hold over people.

• Pray that God's kingdom would reign on the earth.

We conclude our time of prayer with a blessing and by proclaiming, once again, the authority and goodness of our God:

To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy - to the only God our Saviour be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and for evermore! Amen.

(Jude 1:24-25)

Tuesday Prayer 1st June 2021

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I would like to continue today with us praying into our spiritual gifts, I read on Sunday verse 10 from 1 Peter chapter 4

Let look this again and include verse 11 also

10 God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 11 Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.

Peter gives us a clue when working out our spiritual gifts, when he talks about speaking verses serving. Some of us do the most good when we use words, we preach, teach classes, counsel people, text a struggling friend, welcome a Church guest, share wisdom. Does that sound like you?

Others of us do the most good through work that involves few words. We look after the Church, organise the space, prepare meals that bring people together, we work in the background to serve. Does that sound like you?

As we go into a time of prayer and praise, let us ask God to allow His Holy Spirit to speak to us. Ask Him to speak into our lives and help us to understand and how we can carry out out gifts to glorify Him.

We can listen to the following song to help us focus.

We take time to pray for those who are struggling at the moment, those in the community who are in need. For Anne and the team at Renew 127 and our Foodbank team, who are our presence in the community at the moment.

We give thanks that the open the book team are still able to reach our local schools, even if this is by video we give thanks to those who have been involved in the organising, preparing and making of these films that the children will be able to watch.

We also pray for the next step of the relaxation of the rules which will allow us to finally meet together back in the Church building, we pray for the government who will be making the decisions on this step, pray for wisdom, discernment and guidance when making these changes.

Let us finally take time to rest in His presence to really embrace His spirit as we listen to another song.

Tuesday Prayer 25th May 2021

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Psalm 42:1-2

1 As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.

2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?

Matthew 5:6

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

Isaiah 55:1-3

1 "Is anyone thirsty?

Come and drink- even if you have no money!

Come, take your choice of wine or milk-

it's all free!

2 Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength?

Why pay for food that does you no good?

Listen to me, and you will eat what is good.

You will enjoy the finest food.

3 "Come to me with your ears wide open.

Listen, and you will find life.

I will make an everlasting covenant with you.

I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David."

In recent weeks, God has been reminding me about hungering and thirsting for Him. Because with God there is always more. These verses of Psalm 42 and Isaiah remind us that only He can truly satisfy. There are plenty of things to enjoy in life, but they are all meaningless without God (see Ecclesiastes).

As we come together to meet with God, let's reflect on the words of this song that only God can satisfy our souls, then move into a time of praise and thanks for how God has blessed and satisfied us.

The Big Question Reflection

Give thanks for what God has done in this event and for seeds sown - that there will be a hunger for more questions and the things of God (including ourselves).

"And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it." (1 Peter 3:15)

Continue Praying for the Bentley Community

Renew - For "God encounters" with people who are hungry for more.

Foodbank - As well as meeting the needs of the physically hungry, that spiritual hunger too will be met.

Open the Book - The ongoing work. That seeds sown in young lives will come to fruition.

The work of other churches in the community.

Returning to physical meetings

At the end of next month, we will see the start of the church physically meeting together. Pray that all preparations will go well and that there will be the eagerness and desire in the whole church to return.

In closing, this song reminds us that only God truly satisfies us. Let's continue to hunger for more of God and continue to count His blessings.

Tuesday Prayer 18th May 2021

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Last Thursday was Ascension Day, next Sunday is Pentecost. The ten days in between, the believers (about 120) "joined constantly in prayer." Acts 1: 14.

Jesus had told them "to wait for the gift my Father promised." Acts 1: 4 "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses." Acts 1: 8

They waited with expectancy, constantly in prayer. On the day of Pentecost, 50 days after Passover, we now celebrate as Easter, was the feast celebrating the wheat harvest. A time to thank God for His provision.

God provided another harvest that day, the harvest of people believing in Jesus proclaiming him as their Saviour and Lord.

Filling up.

Take time now to express the desire of your heart to be filled again with Holy Spirit. Use the song "There must be more than this" (Consuming fire) to help us re-focus and express our desire for His filling.

Pray the words of this song:

Jesus, we come to lift you high,

Take every thought every word and draw them all to you.

Fill every heart until you are all we see,

Then we will worship, worship in your Spirit and be free.

Thank Jesus for His promise "I will be with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28: 20

Speak out your praise and worship.

Moving Out

Read God's plan in Exodus 6: 6-8

1. I will free you from oppression.

2. I will rescue you.

3. I will redeem you. (pay the price for you)

4. I will take you as my own.

5. I will be your God.

6. I will bring you into the land I promised.

These were God's steppingstones from slavery to freedom for His people. Pray for those you know who you want to lead to Jesus and freedom; for those you will invite to be part of the Big Question event next Monday evening.

World Concerns

Pray for peace in Northern Ireland, and also, in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict.

Pray for Christians in India. Many pastors/church leaders have died due to Covid-19 for the church to remain strong and focussed in its mission to show the love of Christ.

Pray for Christians in Myanmar who are hiding for fear of being arrested by the military.

Pray for other situations you may know about or are concerned about.

Pray for the strength to endure and persevere and not lose heart. For the Holy Spirit to make God's presence real in very difficult situations.

Finish by thanking God for His presence with you each and every day, praying "you will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage for Christ to be exalted." Philippians 1: 20.

Tuesday Prayer 11th May 2021

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Psalm 68:3-4 NLT

Let the godly rejoice. Let them be glad in God's presence. Let them be filled with joy. Sing praises to God and to his name! Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds. His name is the Lord - rejoice in his presence!

As we come to prayer, let's first acknowledge God's presence with us and in us through the words of the following song, and from there let's flow into exalting Him who is high over all. Use one of God's titles or attributes to focus your thanksgiving and praise, eg Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counsellor, Healer, Restorer, King of Kings...

As Joel shared on Sunday, Jesus came to seek and save the lost, spending time with sinners, outcasts, those that "decent society" and the religious looked down on. Jesus Himself said that, "the Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does". (John 5:19 NLT), and He calls us to do the same.

Spend some time first of all asking God to search our hearts and bring to the surface any wrong attitudes we may have. Once we have confessed, know that we are forgiven, and move on to pray that God will soften our hearts and use us to reach all those He brings across our paths, regardless of who they are. Pray for every area of both our individual and corporate lives that reaches into the world: Food Bank, Open the Book, Renew, our neighbours, work colleagues, places of leisure, at the school gates...

Psalm 68 goes on to say, "Father to the fatherless, defender of widows - this is God, whose dwelling is holy. God places the lonely in families; he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy." (Psalm 68:5-6a NLT).

Let us pray that the Body of Christ at BBC will become known as a place and a people where the lost become found, the outcasts are welcome, the lonely find family, the prisoners are set free, and the broken are made whole. After all, we were in their shoes once, but we were cleansed; we were made holy; we were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God (I Corinthians 6:11).

Tuesday Prayer 4th May 2021

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Whenever you chose to take time to pray today, whether that be in the afternoon, the evening or at a time more convenient to you, it matters not, because our God is ready to hear you.

Let us join together in prayer

Dear Lord, on this Tuesday, I pray that You give me strength to be strong for You, amid all the temptations of this world. You know that there are struggles that I will go through during the coming week. I pray that You be with me as I go through them. With You at my side, nothing will be impossible. Carry me when I am too weak. Make me an overcomer. Fill me with your wisdom. In Jesus mighty and powerful name, I pray, Amen.

1 Corinthians 10:13 - The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.

As we listen to this worship from Hillsong - "Who You say I am". Don't just be a passive listener. Own the words and make them yours

As we continue to come before our Lord in prayer, let us open up our minds and bodies so that we can fully devote this time to Him

Holy Spirit, I invite you to tear down the strongholds in my life. Help me to overcome each and every obstacle that attempts to stand in my way. For You, Oh Lord, are my light and my salvation. What shall I fear? Break every evil chain that tries to mislead me. Help me to be focused on my present, dear Lord, and let worry fall by the wayside.

Let my heart be filled with joyful praises unto You, each and every day. Amen

Philippians 4:6 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Offer praises to the King. Nothing is ever to trivial or small for Him.

Let us now take time to give thanks and then to pray for those less fortunate than ourselves

We have suffered from Covid 19 for well over a year now. Let us give thanks that we are seeing a light at the end of the tunnel. That God is bringing us out of the darkness back into light.

Consider, that whatever we have been through, as individuals of a scattered church, isolation, sickness, financial problems and other things which have tested us.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all of your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3: 5-6

There are countries across the world that are still suffering the effects of Covid 19 and facing a far worse pandemic than we have done.

At this time let us pray in particular for India and the suffering that is going on in that country.

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 1Timothy 2:1 (ESV)

Let us pray for:

PEOPLE SUFFERING. Those in hospital with Covid-19. Those sick at home. Those suddenly bereaved.

PHYSICIANS, nurses and key workers labouring every waking moment under impossible conditions.

POLITICIANS overseeing the roll-out of the vaccine, trying to support hospitals, businesses and hold the nation together.

PASTORS & PRIESTS, seeking to shepherd churches through this crisis, facing unprecedented challenges themselves but also with unprecedented opportunities to proclaim the hope of the gospel.

Connect

Think of just one person who you know who isn't on a journey with Jesus yet. Lift them up to the Lord and pray for them to encounter Him!

Pray the we ourselves will have an encounter with the Holy Spirit this week, as we seek to connect with Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Don't be shy in asking for what you want or need. God will never make a bad choice for you.

As we come to the end of our time, lets be joyful and sing.

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God-this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2

God Bless you all and may He watch over you throughout the coming week.

Tuesday Prayer 27th April 2021

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'Church for Dummies'

James 5:13-16

There's a popular series of books that aims to help people to learn new skills with really simple instructions and illustrations. It's known as the '[insert topic here] for dummies' series. There a few examples of these below...

Their strapline is: 'making everything easier' and it's a bestselling series!

Now I'm not saying you're a dummy (even if you like the look of one of the books above!) but we could all use a little help sometimes and in the early church the first Christians often struggled with how to respond in different situations.

I often regard four verses from the bible (James 5:13-16) as 'Church for Dummies' - a set of simple instructions to the early church that says in just those verses what to do in some of the most common challenges of life, both at the time and today!

We're going to work through the passage and after each section there's a suggestion of what you might pray for, though to be honest it's not that hard to figure out (which is why I call it 'church for dummies'!):

James 5:13-16

13a Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray.

- Pray for some of the troubles you're aware of in your life and in the community...

13b Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.

- Praise and worship God using one of this song, remembering that we are to worship Him no matter how we feel.

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14 Is anyone among you ill? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.

- Pray for those we know who are unwell (especially the Elders!). Know that you are forgiven by God for anything you have done wrong!

16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

- What prayers of confession might we have to pray today? On behalf of ourselves, our church and our nation? Pray some prayer confessing to God, either privately or out loud, knowing that God hears and forgives you for ANYTHING!

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. [Romans 8:38-39]

Tuesday Prayer 20th April 2021

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As we listen to this first song, let us take a few moments to still our minds and focus on the words of the song.

Allow the spirit to pour out fill our minds and hearts as we listen

We start with a time of praise and thanksgiving, read through the following verses

Romans 15:13

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 14: 16-19

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

On Saturday we had the funeral of Prince Philip, pray for the Queen who is now learning to adapt to a live without her husband, may the God of love fill her with peace at this time. We also pray for those we know that have recently lost loved ones too.

Pray for Anne Gosling and the team as Renew 127 opens this week for the plans and preparations that are being put in place. May God grant Anne with wisdom as she controls the new environment and the changes that have been made due to the current restrictions. May she feel at peace and be blessed mightily.

Pray for Joel, Kirsty and the family for their imminent move to Doncaster. We pray for peace and calmness as they prepare. Pray specifically for Malachi, Elijah, Esme & Mabel as this is a big move for them too, pray that they will feel God's protection on them, and may He fill them with excitement and peace, so they won't feel anxious.

For foodbank, for the continual work of our church members that make it so organised, successful and available to those who are in desperate need.

Finally, a song to finish to reflect on all what has been prayed today

Tuesday Prayer 13th April 2021

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Psalm 100

A psalm. For giving grateful praise.

1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.

2 Worship the LORD with gladness;

come before him with joyful songs.

3 Know that the LORD is God.

It is he who made us, and we are his;

we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving

and his courts with praise;

give thanks to him and praise his name.

5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;

his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Let the words of this song help us draw close to God and continue after with a time of worshipping God in our praise and thanksgiving.

Connecting with God

This week has been a time of connecting with God. As we have been doing this throughout the last week, what has God been saying to us?

A time of prayer for our Nation

Last Friday, Prince Philip passed away just short of his 100th birthday. On watching the news and various programmes commemorating his life, what made an impression on me was how he lived a life of service and how many testified to his impact on them.

Pray for the Royal Family, especially for the funeral this Saturday - that there will be healing in relationships. As many will be watching, pray that God will speak to the Nation.

The way forward as lockdown rules continue to relax - wisdom for those in positions of influence. Church leaders, politicians, scientists, medics.

Local

Bentley community. Foodbank, Open the Book, Renew, Church members living in Bentley. Churches in the Bentley area. People who have connected with the online services.

Many are asking, "Who can show us any good?" Let the light of your face shine upon us, O Lord. (Psalm 4:6)

Let's shine for Jesus as we go through this week.

Tuesday Prayer 23rd March 2021

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Psalm 37: 7 Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act.

Psalm 446: 10 "Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honoured by every nation. I will be honoured throughout the world."

These two verses from the Psalms speak into our busyness and tell us to take time to be still, to acknowledge the LORD God, and focus our attention on Him.

Be still.

Love God

Speak out the names, character, and nature of God. Declare who he is.

Bring your praise and worship to God in ways in which you feel inspired.

Bring honour to Him, He is worthy.

Love People

Talk to God about people you know, your neighbours, work colleagues, friends, family. Ask God's blessing to be on them, for him to reveal himself to them, to draw them close so they may know his presence and love, that they may also be still before God and bring honour to his name.

Love Life

Thank God for his presence with you, for the breath in your lungs, for sight, hearing, smell, taste etc.

Ask for Holy Spirit filling you afresh, so you are empowered to live life in all the fullness of God.

Pray for boldness to live and speak for Jesus in all you do or say.

Be still in the presence of your Lord.

Tuesday Prayers 16th March 2021

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Praise awaits you, our God, in Zion; to you our vows will be fulfilled. You who answer prayer, to you all people will come. When we were overwhelmed by sins, you forgave our transgressions. Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts! We are filled with the good things of your house, of your holy temple. You answer us with awesome and righteous deeds, God our Saviour, the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas, who formed the mountains by your power, having armed yourself with strength, who stilled the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations. The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy. (Psalm 65:1-8 NIV)

Father God, we thank you for your love and tender mercy that pursued us and saved us. We thank you for the many blessings your pour into our lives day by day. We praise you that you are a God who answers prayer.

Allow the following song to lead you into a time of worship, acknowledging God's greatness, majesty and holiness:

Then, spend some time just quietly waiting for God to respond.

Having waited on God and allowed Him to speak, then move into prayer:

• For the fellowship as we move out of lockdown - for wisdom, for adaptability, for the Holy Spirit's leading

• For Bentley, pray against the forces of darkness that bind people and hold them captive. Declare that Jesus is Lord over the spirits of addiction, pornography, abuse, apathy, depression, suicide . . . anything else that the Holy Spirit shows you

• Pray that the Holy Spirit would be at work, opening blind eyes and unstopping deaf ears; that men and women, children and young people would be convicted of sin and their need for salvation

• For those of our fellowship who live in Bentley - Amy, Mike and Nikki, Nazia, Pauline - for their protection and their witness

• For the unsaved wives and husbands of our church fellowship, praying also for the Christian partner

• For those who used to be part of the fellowship who are currently not walking with God as they once did

Finally, use the following song to speak prophetically into the above situations, that the breath of God would bring life:

Tuesday Prayers 9th March 2021

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We were blessed on Sunday evening this week when nearly 180 people tuned in to witness Joel being inducted as our new minister here in Bentley. Since then, others have been watching the induction service on You Tube.

The fact is that, if we had not been in a lockdown we would probably not have reached as many people. Some of whom my not know God as their saviour.

Let us start today by praising God. Our God is such a good God. He hasn't brought a pandemic on us, but circumstances have meant that we are able to praise our God in different ways because of it. Let us bring our praises now, before Him. Not just for yesterday, but for anything that touches your heart today.

There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. Galataions 3: 28-29

Yesterday, was the International Women's day of prayer and this coming Sunday is Mothering Sunday. Whilst it is good to focus on our mothers, let us take time to broaden that and focus on the role that women play in our world today. Some of whom we will be aware. Those involved in mission, Janet Dalman (Japan), Sue Wilson (France) and Milixa LeFerve (Peru) Those involved in leadership, Ruth Rice (renew wellbeing), Lynn Green (Gen Sec of the Baptist Union), Ali Summers and Amy Waring (both on the Fresh Streams Leadership Team). Take time to lift some of these, or others you know of, to our Lord.

Also pray for women who are still treated as lesser persons, those fighting for a voice to be heard and particularly those who are trafficked and treated as sex objects. Those who are abused and denied the basic rights every person should be entitled to. Lift their circumstances up to our most gracious God.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3: 5-6

Let us take time now to reflect on God's impact in our lives. Listen to the song, join in if you wish.

As you consider the words of this song, what is God saying to you. It is not a weakness to rely on the Lord, but strength.

However, it is written 'What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard and what no human mind has conceived' the things God has prepared for those who love Him. These are the things God has revealed to us by His Spirit. 1Corinthians 2: 9-10

Let us bring our time together to a close by focussing on 'New Growth'. We are entering a new era at Bentley Baptist Church. We pray we are coming to the end of a pandemic which has impacted all our lives. We are coming out of Winter into Spring.

There is so much to be thankful for as we look forward to what God has in store for us.

May God continue to pour His blessing out on you throughout this week.

Amen

Tuesday Prayers 2nd March 2021

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Today we'll be using the helpful P.R.A.Y. acronym from Pete Greig's book:

'How to Pray' as we Pause, Rejoice, Ask and Yield.

Pause

Psalm 46:10 says: 'be still and know that I am God' and we read that 'Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.' (Luke 5:16)

So the first thing we're going to do is spend time just being mindful of the reality that God is here.

Focus on your breathing, close your eyes, and focus your thoughts on the reality of God's presence with you. Ask Him simply to come by His Holy Spirit and fill you with His presence.

Rejoice

In the book of Daniel, chapter 6:10, we read that 'Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God'.

Rejoicing in who God is and what He has done should be the default position for His people!

Begin to rejoice by using the song: 'Bless the Lord O my soul'

After listening to this song, spend some praying prayers of Praise and Thankfulness to God for who He is and all He has done!

Ask

Archbishop William Temple said:

'When I pray, coincidences happen; when I stop praying, coincidences stop happening'

1 Thessalonians 5:7 says, very simply, 'Pray continually'.

Jesus said: 'You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.' (John 14:14)

Let's ask our good, good Father for the things we need, the things our friends and families need and the things our world needs.

Yield

Jesus lived a life that showed He was in complete submission to what His father God asked of Him - even death on the cross.

We read that He called His followers to the same principle!

knows you better than you know yourself, So God's plan for you is better than yours.

Finish this time by praying this prayer:

Father God, please be ruler of my life.

I surrender to your purposes and plans.

Guide me and make my path clear as you keep me from evil.

If there is anything in my life that you do not want for me,

please help me to open my hands and let it go.

Thank you that you are ready to put a blessing in it's place.

Tuesday Prayers 23rd February 2021

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Love

Having recently celebrated Valentine's Day, coupled with the sermons of the last few weeks, and certain scriptures that are coming to my attention, God has been reminding me of His love for us and how His love helps us to love others. God loves us with a passion. Here are some well known verses to remind us of this:

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (NIV)

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (NIV)

1 John 3:1a See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! (NIV)

The words of this hymn remind us of how great God's love is. Let's remind ourselves of God's love as we sing and express our love for Him, then move into a time of thanking God for his love and goodness to us, and expressing our love for Him.

A further scripture that have been on my mind recently was Jesus' challenge to Peter after the resurrection. (John 21 NIV)

15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my lambs." 16 Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"

He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep." 17 The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep"

Three times Jesus asked Peter the question "Do you love me?" Do we find ourselves being asked the same question by Jesus from time to time? Seems like I am being asked it lately. If we love Jesus, we will learn to love like Jesus.

Our banner a few years ago was - "Above all love". (1 Peter 4:8-11 NIV)

8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

If we are to impact the community, we need to show the love of Jesus. Ask God to take us to a deeper level of love for Him, to discover new ways of showing love to people. As lockdown begins to be relaxed, there will be lost sheep looking for a fold - ask for wisdom and guidance on our next steps in caring and feeding the sheep God sends.

Also, to prepare our hearts for loving the community more. Remember our church strapline: "Love God, Love People, Love Life". Are we all living up to this?

Let's finish as we started - worshipping God and His love for us.

Tuesday Prayers 16th February 2021

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A good number of years ago now, our watchword was "Live . . . in expectation". This was based on I Corinthians 2:9-10, which says:

'That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him."

But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets.'

Over the last few years, God has revealed, and is still revealing, what He is doing and what He wants to do in Bentley. Do we believe Him? Are we living in expectation? To live in expectation doesn't mean we just sit back and wait for God to act. Nor does it mean that we simply get on with life. To live in expectation means to be awake and watchful, looking forward to and praying for what has been promised. Living in expectation means living like God is going to do something TODAY.

As we come to prayer, let's begin by praising God, lifting up His Name and giving Him the glory that He alone deserves.

In this atmosphere of praise and worship, begin by declaring God's faithfulness and His sovereignty - what He has said He will do, despite appearances to the contrary, for He is the God of the impossible.

Thank God for the promises He has spoken over Bentley, remind Him of them, and pray for their fulfilment - that God by His Spirit would move in every household, that the atmosphere would be changed, that men and women, boys and girls, young and old, would begin to seek answers to the deep-seated questions of their heart, and that Bentley would be a place of blessing and prosperity.

Finally, on this eve of Lent, are we prepared to live in expectation by committing to setting time aside each of the next forty days to speak blessing over and pray for the good of Bentley and its people - that heaven would come down?

Tuesday Prayers 9th February 2021

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This week we have Valentines day, a day where we can celebrate our love for one another, shower those we love with gifts - or not! Do we really need one day to show others how much we love them???

Knowing we are loved is so important, to know and understand that we are loved by God, loved by our family and also that we can show love to others and especially show our love to God.

I have chosen the following verse it is always a popular verse when we speak of love and also used a lot at weddings and celebrations, as Paul spoke to the church in Corinth, these verses still speak to us today.

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. 13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13: 4-13 NLT)

We will split the prayer time into 3 sections: -

• Praise and thanksgiving to God for His unending love, His patience, grace and mercy.

• Prayer of love for our families, some we may not have seen for a long time, for the challenges we have faced over the last year, for our Church family too.

• Prayer of love for others in our community, those who we work with, meet during the day and for those we are yet to meet.

Let us start with giving thanks to God. He loves us at all times and even with our own faults and failures. When times are good and in times of trouble, we are his children, and his faithful love endures forever.

See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! (1 John 3v1 NLT)

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. (Psalm 136 v1 NLT)

We move on to a time of prayer for our families, let us be thankful for our spouses, children/grandchildren, parents/grandparents, brothers and sisters etc.

We love each other because he loved us first - 1 John 4 v19 NLT

This last year has been a challenging one for everyone, families together and families apart. Specifically pray for those who juggle working from home, home schooling and balancing family life. We pray for our loved ones that we will all be reunited together soon. Give thanks for the technology that allows us to remain close to our family and extended family.

For our Church family too, for those who we have missed this last year, for those we have lost this last year and pray that again we will be back together soon worshiping God in our church building. To give thanks

how much our church family have stayed together during this time too and for everything that has been provided for us to enable us to worship, learn and live out God's word.

Finally, let us spend time for those in our community, for people we see during our day-to-day life. Shop workers, NHS staff and other key workers. Those who have helped us all get through this last year. How can we share God's love to others? This can be challenging with social distancing and mask wearing but with God it's not impossible.

14 "You are the light of the world-like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5 14-16 NLT

37 Jesus replied, "'You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 A second is equally important: 'Love your neighbour as yourself.' - Matthew 22: 37-39 NLT

A good passage to finish this prayer time on is this: -

Loving One Another

7 Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. 8 But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love.

9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love-not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.

11 Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. 12 No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.

13 And God has given us his Spirit as proof that we live in him and he in us. 14 Furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now testify that the Father sent his Son to be the Saviour of the world. 15 All who declare that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God. 16 We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love.

God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. 17 And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So, we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world.

18 Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. 19 We love each other because he loved us first.

If we don't know where to start or how to do it, it is already written for us. The bible is full of God's love for us, and directions on how we can share our love and show love to others even if it is hard.

We love because he loved us first...

Tuesday Prayers 2nd February 2021

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Use Psalm 8 to praise God. Think about who he is, remember all he has blessed us with and give him thanks.

Psalm 8

1 LORD, our Lord,

how majestic is your name in all the earth!

You have set your glory

in the heavens.

2 Through the praise of children and infants

you have established a stronghold against your enemies,

to silence the foe and the avenger.

3 When I consider your heavens,

the work of your fingers,

the moon and the stars,

which you have set in place,

4 what is mankind that you are mindful of them,

human beings that you care for them?

5 You have made them a little lower than the angels

and crowned them with glory and honour.

6 You made them rulers over the works of your hands;

you put everything under their feet:

7 all flocks and herds,

and the animals of the wild,

8 the birds in the sky,

and the fish in the sea,

all that swim the paths of the seas.

9 LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

Prayer changes us!

• It changes us in our relationship with God.

• It changes us in how we think about others.

• It changes us in our attitudes and opinions.

• It changes us in our actions.

If it doesn't, then have we been really praying or just saying words?

God changed peoples' names to reflect his work in their lives.

• Abram      high father     Abraham     father of a multitude

• Jacob       deceiver         Israel          having power with God.

• Simon       hearing          Peter          rock

God told the prophet Hosea to name his daughter Lo-Ruhamah Not loved, and a son Lo-Ammi not my people.

This was God speaking to his people because they had rejected him and worshipped other gods. God then said if they would turn back to him they would be known as 'you are loved, and 'you are my people'.

Use the song 'Who you say I am.' And listen to God speaking affirmation over you

As we have been praying, we have been encouraged that God has led us pray His word over Bentley One of the passages is from Isaiah 62.

Never again will you be called "The Forsaken City" (Azubah) or "The Desolate Land." (Shemamah) Your new name will be "The City of God's Delight" (Hephzibah) and "The Bride of God," (Beulah) for the LORD delights in you and will claim you as his bride. Isaiah 62: 4

Let us pray blessing over Bentley.

B - Body: Pray for good health, protection, and strength for all who live or work there.

L - Labour: Pray for work and financial security for the families and businesses.

E - Emotional: Pray for emotional health and a good quality of life; for joy, peace, hope.

S - Social: Pray for relationships with family and friends, for community life.

S - Spiritual: Pray for salvation, that many will come to faith in Jesus Christ.

Pray for Joel, Kirsty, Malachi, Elijah, Esme, and Mabel. For the sale of their house in Torquay and the purchase of the right house in Doncaster.

For Joel as he starts his ministry, from a distance, in Bentley. For wisdom and encouragement.

Tuesday Prayers 26th January 2021

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Psalm 95:1-5 NLT

Come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come to him with thanksgiving. Let us sing psalms of praise to him. For the Lord is a great God, a great King above all gods. He holds in his hands the depths of the earth and the mightiest mountains. The sea belongs to him, for he made it. His hands formed the dry land too

Spend some time praising God. He is worthy of all praise. He is our Saviour and Redeemer. He is the Creator and Sustainer. He is the Exalted One, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Psalm 95:6-7a NLT

Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker, for he is our God.

Allow your praise and acknowledgement of God's goodness and greatness to move you into worship. As the following song plays, pour out your love to Him; be so focussed on Him, on His glorious majesty, that you become lost in the wonder of Him. Don't be in a rush.

When you feel the time is right to move on, begin to pray into the promises and encouragements that God has given to us over the last 3½ years as outlined by Graham on Sunday, remembering that "God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through?" (Numbers 23:19 NLT).

Below are the bullet points. See under "Promises and Encouragements" elsewhere on the website for more detail.

• Jeremiah 33:1-3, 6-11 - Bentley will be healed and know true prosperity and peace. Her sins and rebellion will be forgiven and Bentley and she will bring joy, glory and honour to God; and the world will know about it.

• Isaiah 62 - Bentley's righteousness will shine like the dawn and her salvation will blaze like a burning torch. She will be a beacon to the world. God will delight in Bentley and Bentley will be a desirable place to be.

• Jeremiah 31:7-9 - God is going to bring people back to Bentley. There will be those with needs among them, but they will come in weeping and repentance, praying; God will refresh them and be a father to them.

Prayer Points:

• That the wind of God's Spirit would blow through Bentley, bringing transformation through repentance and a turning to God

• That the trickle of the water of God's Spirit become a torrent, opening blind eyes and unstopping deaf ears

• Pray against the forces of darkness that bind people and hold them captive. Declare that Jesus is Lord over the spirits of addiction, pornography, abuse, apathy, depression, suicide

• For ourselves, both individually and corporately, to be willing to put in the preparation for the harvest that is to come - to mend the nets, and to enlarge our borders and strengthen the stakes and ropes (repent of any reluctance or apathy on your part)

• For the churches of Bentley - that there will be a greater unity and collaboration, particularly in the area of prayer

End with the declaration that God is here and He is at work, the Way Maker and Promise Keeper:

Tuesday Prayers 19th January 2021

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As we come to prayer today let us lay aside the busyness and concerns of our day and turn our eyes to Jesus, relax in his presence and enjoy his peace

At last weeks Fresh Streams Conference the theme was Jeremiah 6:16. This has continued to be on my mind and I believe it is right that as church we also look at it:

This is what the LORD says:

"Stand at the crossroads and look;

ask for the ancient paths,

ask where the good way is, and walk in it,

and you will find rest for your souls.

But you said, 'We will not walk in it.'

As you may know from reading beyond this point in the chapter, the people of Judah chose not to follow and they did their own thing and that resulted in years of exile.

We have been with this pandemic now for nearly a year. During that time we have not met in church to worship together, but as church our worship goes on. In our own homes, and joined together on Zoom, we continue to worship our God. We are approaching that crossroads referred to in Jeremiah, and need to be seeking God as to the way.

What does the future hold for us as God's people here in Bentley? This is a question we should all be asking ourselves.

"We are not called to walk the same ancient path to which Israel was called, but we are required to be faithful to our calling; to walk in spirit and truth as outlined in the word of God - to grow in grace and in a knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ and to mature in the faith that we have been taught."

Let's start today, seeking the Lord, firstly listening to this piece of music and then taking some time to be quiet. (you may say that you have plenty of time for that in these present conditions). Once the song finishes, take time to seek the Holy Spirit.

Hear what is being said to you at this time, for you and for Bentley.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 says "Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt, but test them all: hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil"

Remember that God never tires of hearing our praise and prayer.

Praise:

Reflect on the time you have just spent and praise the Lord for revealing all His glory to you

Give thanks to God, for the fact that He never leaves us and that He can and will speak to us.

Prise Him for all the blessings, those in the past and those, through His faithfulness that are yet to come.

Praise Him for the things we take for granted. The small everyday things that get us through each day.

Prayer points:

Pray for Bentley, that there will be a transforming breakthrough, with many people coming to know the Lord.

For vision, for how we will respond to the Lord's word when we come out of this situation and are able to meet together again.

Pray for all those who are suffering, due to Covid-19. For those with ill health and for those charged with caring for them.

Pray for those in the persecuted church world-wide. Pray for those in Nigeria, a country which has moved into the 'Extreme Persecution' category on the Open Doors Watch List, published last week.

Pray for all those who dedicate their lives to taking God's word to countries which are hostile to the Christian faith, regardless of the dangers to their own lives.

It is now only two weeks until Joel takes up his position as our new minister. Continue to pray for all the family:

• for the provision of a buyer for their house in Torquay and for the availability of a suitable property here in Doncaster

• for the children and the uncertainty of a timetable for schooling that they face during Covid and the preparation of leaving friends for new schools in Doncaster

• for Joel and Kirsty as they continue to school the children at home

• for the unprecedented case of ceasing employment with Upton Vale and taking on the role of minister here in Doncaster, whilst still living in Torquay

May God bless you all and keep you safe throughout the coming week.

Amen

Tuesday Prayers 12th January 2021

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Psalm 2

1 Why are the nations so angry?

Why do they waste their time with futile plans?

2 The kings of the earth prepare for battle;

the rulers plot together

against the LORD

and against his anointed one.

3 "Let us break their chains," they cry,

"and free ourselves from slavery to God."

4 But the one who rules in heaven laughs.

The Lord scoffs at them.

5 Then in anger he rebukes them,

terrifying them with his fierce fury.

6 For the Lord declares, "I have placed my chosen king on the throne

in Jerusalem, on my holy mountain."

7 The king proclaims the LORD's decree:

"The LORD said to me, 'You are my son.

Today I have become your Father.

8 Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance,

the whole earth as your possession.

9 You will break them with an iron rod

and smash them like clay pots.'"

10 Now then, you kings, act wisely!

Be warned, you rulers of the earth!

11 Serve the LORD with reverent fear,

and rejoice with trembling.

12 Submit to God's royal son, or he will become angry,

and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities-

for his anger flares up in an instant.

But what joy for all who take refuge in him!

This weeks Psalm reminds us that we need to pray for our nation and the nations. Many nations are run by leaders who do not know God and do not seek wise counsel. I recently read the book of Judges where Israel went through the cycle of worshiping false gods, selling themselves to other people, crying out to God, God brings a judge who saves the nation, then they have rest, take their eyes off God and the whole cycle starts again. It seems that many nations today go through the same cycle. Is it any wonder that so many nations rage and plot against the will of God?

Praise Points

Give thanks to God that we live in a free country (at least at the moment) where we are free to worship and share the love of Jesus. Verses 4 to 6, 12 remind us how great our God, is as does the following song.

Give thanks that despite the covid pandemic God is working in the hearts of mankind.

Give thanks for the opportunity that churches have to serve in their community (eg meeting needs through foodbanks).

Covid was no surprise to God, and what the devil uses to rob, steal, kill and destroy, God can use to bring life in all its fulness.

Give thanks that God has enabled scientists to develop vaccines.

Prayer points

• Pray for leaders - political leaders in government and opposition. Pray that they will seek wise counsel (verse 10). Pray that they will be touched by God and indeed come to know God.

• Pray for church leaders. National leaders, pastors etc. That they will continue to seek God and be guided to make wise decisions in their leading. To influence government both local and national in a Godly way. Pray also that pastors and their congregations will impact their communities at this time like never before, demonstrating the love of God.

• Pray for our front-line NHS workers, many are near exhausted, both physically and emotionally at this time, caring for those who are sick. Pray for Christian doctors and nurses that they will know God's presence and sustaining at this time - even to have opportunity to share their faith with others, especially the sick and dying.

• Pray for those who are sick or dying from covid, that they will cry out to God and come to know Him at this time.

• Pray for those who are suffering in loneliness, well-being and mental health, that God will be their light in a dark place.

• Pray for the effective distribution of the vaccines, that there will be wisdom exercised in their use and efficient distribution.

• Pray that our nation will once again cry out to God (the last time was Dunkirk 1940, effectively the UK's Red Sea moment). We are reminded several times in God's Word that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. As God's people we are reminded (verse 11) to serve the Lord with reverent fear.

• Pray that churches will continue to find innovative ways to serve their communities, taking the Good News with them. This is already happening (eg BBC Foodbank).

• Pray for our brothers and sisters in countries where there is persecution. Many are suffering, even surrendering their lives rather than denying Jesus. Over 260 million Christians are being persecuted worldwide. See https://www.opendoorsuk.org/ for more details,

Finally, give thanks to God that He is our refuge. The final line of the chapter states "what joy for those who take refuge in Him."

Tuesday Prayers 5th January 2021

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New Year prayers

On Sunday we listened to the song Our God, what a great reminder and a great way to start the year.

Our God is greater, our God is stronger God You are higher than any other Our God is Healer, awesome in power Our God, Our God

God is greater, stronger, higher, healer and all powerful. And He is our God. So, as we spend some time in praise and thanksgiving let these words fill our prayers.

I have been following the Scripture writing plan on our Facebook page and have found it has really been helping with my focus over the past week. I wanted to revisit the first verse on day 1 focusing mainly on the last 2 sentences.

Isaiah 43 16-19

This is what the Lord says- he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, 17 who drew out the chariots and horses, the army and reinforcements together, and they lay there, never to rise again, extinguished, snuffed out like a wick: 18 "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Let us not dwell on what has been before, we can't change 2020 and what has happened, what we experience shapes us but doesn't define us. Our challenge is not to get weighed down by what we have missed out on, what we have lost and what went wrong but to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, to know that God will always be doing a new thing, there is always so much more in front of us and He prepares the way.

Spend some time in prayer for those who are struggling to see God in their situation, for those who don't know Him or understand His love. We all have family, friends, Colleagues that will be angry and perhaps bitter at what is happened, but this is not healthy, we need to pray a peace over those we know and love.

Some may not have had much opportunity to share their faith over the last 9 months but there are always ways we can do it. Social media is an amazing tool when used correctly. Have a look for a positive quote to post on your news feed, you never know how much that

will help someone who is struggling, a telephone call, or facetime all ways to speak to others and share our faith.

I want to specifically pray for those who work in our education system, once again the teachers, school workers and children all face another challenging time and adding to the mix mass testing of pupils which seems a daunting task. We really need to pray for all those in education to feel a sense of God's peace over them and that they will not feel overwhelmed. We pray for their health both physically and mentally and may they be filled with the Holy Spirit so they can accomplish the task ahead of them.

For Joel, Kirsty and family as they continue with their own moving challenges, we pray that they have a buyer as soon as possible and that this time the buyer will commit fully to the purchase. For the house in Doncaster, that the family will keep this open for them until they have secured their sale and for the children that they continue to feel safe and settled as their parents take on the challenging move to Doncaster.

Finally, we pray for our Church family at Bentley, pray for all that the Church continues to do and especially as Foodbank returns after the Christmas break for those running it and those who will be in need of its service.

For the life groups, those who meet via zoom and those who keep in contact via telephone or other ways, let us all reconnect and share valuable fellowship time with each other.

Amen