This is the second of 2 "reflections" on the call for Christians who are concerned about the upcoming elections to collectively stop and pray for one minute a day at a prescribed time. As always, if you have comments, questions or feedback, please feel free to d-mail me at rep46017@aol.com
Reflections on “One Minute Per Day in Prayer”
2. I am fully in agreement that this year’s election for our next President, as well as all of the other elected officials who will serve our nation, state and local governments for the next four years (in the case of the President), is a critically important time for our nation in every regard – energy production and its effect on the economy, the war in Iraq, preparation to defend against the coming tide of jihad, the need to strengthen the integrity of the institution of marriage and the family, and so much more! Paul exhorts us in 1 Timothy 2:1-4:
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
“Kings and all who are in authority” – are we being faithful to do that now? Do we pray faithfully for: President Bush, Vice President Cheney and all of the Secretaries of the Departments of Government that comprise the Cabinet of the Administration? Do we faithfully pray for our Representatives in Congress and our Senators and the aides that assist them in their research concerning all of the Bills that come before them? Do we faithfully pray for our Supreme Court Justices and their legal aides?
Regarding the above, do we even know their names?
Please understand that these questions are not meant to bring condemnation to anyone! The intent behind them is to ask this: If we are not in the habit of faithful, daily prayer and intercession for those currently in leadership, will God hear our “prayers of panic” that we decide to lift up because we are concerned about the results of the upcoming elections?
Why would He? Could He be assured that we would faithfully pray for our next President and all of those who will lead our government, regardless of who those persons may be, for the next four years as faithfully as we attended to our “emergency prayer vigil” prior to and during the elections of this November?
Friday, June 27, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Reflections About Prayer (2)
Sorry about the "misnumbering." I posted on the blog yesterday the e-mail that I had received concerning a call to pray one minute per day in concert with other believers at the same time each evening concerning the upcoming elections. This day (2) is my first reflection of three that I would like ot share with you. After that, I will use these reflections as a "linch pin" to begin posting a series on Revival. Prayer is that "linch pin" between these two concerns, so it seemed best to begin with this call to prayer.
Reflections on “One Minute Per Day in Prayer”
1. I researched as thoroughly as I could on the Urban Legends and Folklore web site and found nothing to substantiate or deny the historical claims put forth in this e-mail. That said, I believe it is always a good idea when someone calls for us to pray in agreement for any issues that concern our the welfare of our lives and the welfare of the Body of Christ, our families, our nation as well as the well being of all mankind.
My wife, Mary Jane, and I have dedicated focused prayer time over the years for certain individuals and/or specific situations. We had done all that we could in service and ministry to that person(s) or the given situation(s), and we knew that only God could bring about the full blessings that we desired for and in the lives of those involved. We would, for example, dedicate ourselves to stop whatever we were doing at 12:00 noon each day, or as close to that time as our circumstances would allow, and we would pray. We each knew that the other was also praying at that time, and we would confess the promise given to us by Jesus in Matthew 18:19-20 – “Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”
We have seen powerful, positive, progressive answers to these praeyrs (all Praise to Him from whom comes "every good and perfect gift" - see James 1:17). Let us keep these for "P's" in mind for further reflections on Revival - Praise, Powerful, Positive, Progressive!
I'll post Reflection 2 tomorrow. You'll have to excuse me; I need to go now, because I feel a really wonderfully explosive "HALLELUJAH SHOUT" coming on me now! Cião.
Reflections on “One Minute Per Day in Prayer”
1. I researched as thoroughly as I could on the Urban Legends and Folklore web site and found nothing to substantiate or deny the historical claims put forth in this e-mail. That said, I believe it is always a good idea when someone calls for us to pray in agreement for any issues that concern our the welfare of our lives and the welfare of the Body of Christ, our families, our nation as well as the well being of all mankind.
My wife, Mary Jane, and I have dedicated focused prayer time over the years for certain individuals and/or specific situations. We had done all that we could in service and ministry to that person(s) or the given situation(s), and we knew that only God could bring about the full blessings that we desired for and in the lives of those involved. We would, for example, dedicate ourselves to stop whatever we were doing at 12:00 noon each day, or as close to that time as our circumstances would allow, and we would pray. We each knew that the other was also praying at that time, and we would confess the promise given to us by Jesus in Matthew 18:19-20 – “Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”
We have seen powerful, positive, progressive answers to these praeyrs (all Praise to Him from whom comes "every good and perfect gift" - see James 1:17). Let us keep these for "P's" in mind for further reflections on Revival - Praise, Powerful, Positive, Progressive!
I'll post Reflection 2 tomorrow. You'll have to excuse me; I need to go now, because I feel a really wonderfully explosive "HALLELUJAH SHOUT" coming on me now! Cião.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Let's Talk About Prayer (1)
I received this e-mail from a brother, Don Hendrickson. I have not checked the historical, via Snopes or Urban Legends, etc., because my focus on the idea that is proposed about us unifying in prayer. I would like to refrain from any comments today, because I have several, but I would like to bathe them in prayer a bit more, and will begin posting a multi-part series concerning several of the ideas contained herein beginning tomorrow. I assume I will have internet connection in Curitiba, but (a) not having a guarantee that I will, and (b) not knowing what my schedule for ministry there will or will not permit, please understand that if there is a hiatus of a few days (I will not be able to post Monday, June 30 or July 1, while returning to the U.S.) I will be faithful to pursue and to share these insights. If you would like to participate with me in this process, please feel free to e-mail me at rep46017@aol.com. Thank you, and God Bless!
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THIS SOUNDS LIKE AN EXCELLENT IDEA. ONE MINUTE EACH NIGHT Received from a friend and it is true, this is the scariest election we as Christians have ever faced and from the looks of the polls, the Christians aren't voting Christian values. We all need to be on our knees. Do you believe we can take God at His word? Call upon His name, then stand back and watch His wonders to behold. This scripture gives us, as Christians, ownership of this land and the ability to call upon God to heal it. I challenge you to do so. We have never been more desperate than now for God to heal our land. This election is the scariest I remember in my lifetime. 2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. During WWII, there was an advisor to Churchill who organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every night at a prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of England , its people and peace. This had an amazing effect as bombing stopped. There is now a group of people organizing the same thing here in America . The United States of America and our citizens need prayer more than ever !!! If you would like to participate: each evening at 9:00 PM Eastern Time (8:00 PM Central, 7:00 PM Mountain, 6:00 PM Pacific), stop whatever you are doing and spend one minute praying for the safety of the United States, our troops, our citizens, for peace in the world, the up-coming election, that the Bible will remain the basis for the laws governing our land and that Christianity will grow in the U.S. If you know anyone who would like to participate, please pass this along. Someone said if people really understood the full extent of the power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless. Our prayers are the most powerful asset we have. Thank You. Please pass this on to anyone who you think will want to join us. God Bless You!!!
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THIS SOUNDS LIKE AN EXCELLENT IDEA. ONE MINUTE EACH NIGHT Received from a friend and it is true, this is the scariest election we as Christians have ever faced and from the looks of the polls, the Christians aren't voting Christian values. We all need to be on our knees. Do you believe we can take God at His word? Call upon His name, then stand back and watch His wonders to behold. This scripture gives us, as Christians, ownership of this land and the ability to call upon God to heal it. I challenge you to do so. We have never been more desperate than now for God to heal our land. This election is the scariest I remember in my lifetime. 2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. During WWII, there was an advisor to Churchill who organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every night at a prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of England , its people and peace. This had an amazing effect as bombing stopped. There is now a group of people organizing the same thing here in America . The United States of America and our citizens need prayer more than ever !!! If you would like to participate: each evening at 9:00 PM Eastern Time (8:00 PM Central, 7:00 PM Mountain, 6:00 PM Pacific), stop whatever you are doing and spend one minute praying for the safety of the United States, our troops, our citizens, for peace in the world, the up-coming election, that the Bible will remain the basis for the laws governing our land and that Christianity will grow in the U.S. If you know anyone who would like to participate, please pass this along. Someone said if people really understood the full extent of the power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless. Our prayers are the most powerful asset we have. Thank You. Please pass this on to anyone who you think will want to join us. God Bless You!!!
Praise Report and the Rest of the Trip
Wow! You saints sure do know how to pray! Thank you so much. :)
I have slept a solid, deep sleep for 6 1/2 and 6 hours the past two nights (my norm) and feel truly refreshed. My devotional time has been awesome, and I am pressing on into the Word for more and more of the insight from the Father's heart in several areas that I believe are relevant and so very important for this time. I would like to deal with one of these - some thoughts and a call to prayer and inetercession concerning our upcoming elections and related areas - in my next post.
Friday we leave for Curitiba. The weather turned bitter cold with heavy downpours of rain, so we got that real deep chilling effect from the cold and the dampness combined. Curitiba is even further south (away from the equator!), and everyone here keeps telling me that Curitiba is much, much colder than it is here! (Thanks, a lot :). Oh well, I've got that wonderful fire of the Holy Ghost keeping my heart warm and I am not suffering from any cold or flu systems, so I will put on layers of clothes, shiver and bless God! Then again, I think I'll ask the Father to turn up His atmospheric thermostat, if He would be so kind, and "enjoy the ride."
I have no idea of the agenda for this last stop of the trip. Therefore, knowing from past experience that I can have anywhere from 4 to 7 messages to give between Friday night, and Sunday, and, if the traditional pattern is followed, knowing that one of these services will be specifically for leadership and one will be specifically for the "joven" - teens and young adults - I am preparing in prayer and study accordingly.
Deus abençoe, Irmãos! (God bless you, Brothers! - (Sisters included! "Brothers" is generic, you know, like saints :)
I have slept a solid, deep sleep for 6 1/2 and 6 hours the past two nights (my norm) and feel truly refreshed. My devotional time has been awesome, and I am pressing on into the Word for more and more of the insight from the Father's heart in several areas that I believe are relevant and so very important for this time. I would like to deal with one of these - some thoughts and a call to prayer and inetercession concerning our upcoming elections and related areas - in my next post.
Friday we leave for Curitiba. The weather turned bitter cold with heavy downpours of rain, so we got that real deep chilling effect from the cold and the dampness combined. Curitiba is even further south (away from the equator!), and everyone here keeps telling me that Curitiba is much, much colder than it is here! (Thanks, a lot :). Oh well, I've got that wonderful fire of the Holy Ghost keeping my heart warm and I am not suffering from any cold or flu systems, so I will put on layers of clothes, shiver and bless God! Then again, I think I'll ask the Father to turn up His atmospheric thermostat, if He would be so kind, and "enjoy the ride."
I have no idea of the agenda for this last stop of the trip. Therefore, knowing from past experience that I can have anywhere from 4 to 7 messages to give between Friday night, and Sunday, and, if the traditional pattern is followed, knowing that one of these services will be specifically for leadership and one will be specifically for the "joven" - teens and young adults - I am preparing in prayer and study accordingly.
Deus abençoe, Irmãos! (God bless you, Brothers! - (Sisters included! "Brothers" is generic, you know, like saints :)
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Emcontra Story & Prayer Request
Upon my return from Marília, I've learned that I will speak to the TADEL meeting tonight. (TADEL is "Training and Development of Evangelico Leaders); this will be part 2 of a prophetic word/ teaching to that which I shared with them last week. I am not sure of Wednesday's schedule as of yet, but on Thursday night I will speak to the congregation of Villa Romana (Roman Village is one of the districts of the city of Londrina). Two years ago I was priveleged to attend and participate in the Ordination and Installation service of their new pastor, Pastor Clãodine. I have spoken at this church several times in past years when Pastor Atilio was there (he is now one of the associate pastors at the Mother Church with Pastor Enoc), and I worked with Pastor Clãodine 2 years ago at an Emcontra com Deus, but this will be my first opportunity to minister at the Villa Romana Church since his becoming their pastor. He and his wife are truly precious servants of the Lord - very dedicated. (Emcontra com Deus, or Encounter with God, is a weekend retreat, men's retreats for men only and women's retreats for women only) where for 3 days new believers receive a "crash course" in the faith and Christian living.
I attended, but because my Portuguese was not sufficient to teach without an interpreter, and since none was available to me at that time, I spent the entire weekend in intercessory prayer, observation of the mature brothers' ministry to these new believers and assisting them in prayer ministry to the men (for which, thank God, my Portugues was sufficient).
I have never witneesed such a powerful impact on new believers in my life! There is a two year waiting list to be eligible to serve at these meetings! (Imagine that!). The new believers are sent off by their families with a corporate church "send off" service. When they arrive, they are placed under a vow of silence until the last service! (Actually, it is one night and 2 full days thereafter - we arrived Friday night for dinner, and the last service ended on Sunday, late afternoon, in time to return for the Sunday night service which as an all out Hallelujah / Celebrate Jesus / Angels Dancing in Heaven Over New Believers "Blow-Out" service! At this service the men had opportunity to share their testimonies.
During the weekend there were really anointed times of seminar style teaching, dramatic presentations and testimonies, always followed by prayer for the men for them to surrender themselves anew to Christ in that area of their lives - doctrines of the faith (cliff notes version for intoduction purposes), marital relations, parenting, Bible reading and study and devotions, prayer life, healing, repentance for and deliverance from addictions of every sort - alcohol, drugs and pornography - physical violence and abuse of their spouses and children - Wow!
I saw brokenness and reconciliation in the most powerful ways and was so privileged to have had this experience. The Lord really anointed me beautifully for intercession from our arrival Friday night at 7:00 p.m. until the final meeting before our departure at 5:00 Sunday afternoon. He gave me the strength and passion to pray through most of the nights with only 2-4 hours of sleep per night and throughout both Saturday and Sunday during the days.
This trip has been similar in that my aggressive searching for God's heart about revival and constant study and prayer has caused, I believe, a real disruption in my sleep pattern. The beds are comfortable, and I am tired, but once again I am only sleeping an average of 3 or 4 hours a noght. The past Saturday night before teaching on Sunday morning and preaching two services on Sunday night, I only had two hours of sleep.
I am beginning to feel a litlle "punch drunk" with the fatigue, and I would really appreciate your prayer agreement with me for the energy and the strength that I need, because I do not want the enemy to have an opportunity to cause any problems in the ministry in any way due to my fatigue. I will say this, however ~ Glory to God, when I am under the anointing to share God's Word, "I feel no pain!" Hallelujah!
I love, value and appreciate you all so very much! God Bless and Watch Over you and your families tudos dias (all days = continually). Amen!
I attended, but because my Portuguese was not sufficient to teach without an interpreter, and since none was available to me at that time, I spent the entire weekend in intercessory prayer, observation of the mature brothers' ministry to these new believers and assisting them in prayer ministry to the men (for which, thank God, my Portugues was sufficient).
I have never witneesed such a powerful impact on new believers in my life! There is a two year waiting list to be eligible to serve at these meetings! (Imagine that!). The new believers are sent off by their families with a corporate church "send off" service. When they arrive, they are placed under a vow of silence until the last service! (Actually, it is one night and 2 full days thereafter - we arrived Friday night for dinner, and the last service ended on Sunday, late afternoon, in time to return for the Sunday night service which as an all out Hallelujah / Celebrate Jesus / Angels Dancing in Heaven Over New Believers "Blow-Out" service! At this service the men had opportunity to share their testimonies.
During the weekend there were really anointed times of seminar style teaching, dramatic presentations and testimonies, always followed by prayer for the men for them to surrender themselves anew to Christ in that area of their lives - doctrines of the faith (cliff notes version for intoduction purposes), marital relations, parenting, Bible reading and study and devotions, prayer life, healing, repentance for and deliverance from addictions of every sort - alcohol, drugs and pornography - physical violence and abuse of their spouses and children - Wow!
I saw brokenness and reconciliation in the most powerful ways and was so privileged to have had this experience. The Lord really anointed me beautifully for intercession from our arrival Friday night at 7:00 p.m. until the final meeting before our departure at 5:00 Sunday afternoon. He gave me the strength and passion to pray through most of the nights with only 2-4 hours of sleep per night and throughout both Saturday and Sunday during the days.
This trip has been similar in that my aggressive searching for God's heart about revival and constant study and prayer has caused, I believe, a real disruption in my sleep pattern. The beds are comfortable, and I am tired, but once again I am only sleeping an average of 3 or 4 hours a noght. The past Saturday night before teaching on Sunday morning and preaching two services on Sunday night, I only had two hours of sleep.
I am beginning to feel a litlle "punch drunk" with the fatigue, and I would really appreciate your prayer agreement with me for the energy and the strength that I need, because I do not want the enemy to have an opportunity to cause any problems in the ministry in any way due to my fatigue. I will say this, however ~ Glory to God, when I am under the anointing to share God's Word, "I feel no pain!" Hallelujah!
I love, value and appreciate you all so very much! God Bless and Watch Over you and your families tudos dias (all days = continually). Amen!
Monday, June 23, 2008
Brazil Ministry Update
Today, I returned from Marília ("third times the charm" to get the spelling of this city correct :). The ministry went very well! I had the opportunity to speak to the congregation on Friday evening about "The Father's Heart." On Saturday evening, they have a special service for the "Joven." This includes the older teens and the young adults, but as I mentioned before, many of the adults come out to support and encourage their young people when a special speaker comes into town. We ministered in three areas: biblical relationships to build strong marriages, preparation for spiritual warfare in light of coming persecution, and the Father's call to this generation for missions. We had a tremendous response for prayer and ministry with bout 45 young people, and I was so blessed that the Lord moved in the gifts of the word of knowledge, the word of wisdom and prohpecy. The positive feedback and testimonies as a result of that meeting continued throughout my time there on Sunday morning and Sunday evening. I praise God for His faithfulness to us! Hallelujah!
On Sunday morning, I shared with a Men's Group (part of their small group / cell group programs). Several of the men had been in the service the evening before, and they were deeply stirred and convicted about what they had heard, and as they shared this with the other brothers in the small group, it stirred up a very active discussion and ministry time. I also had the opportunity to share with them concerning the ministry of "The Voice of the Martyrs." Bless God!
On Sunday Evening we had two services and ministered at 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. The topic was the Four Reguirements for Revival. Due to time constraints, I could only preview steps 2-4 and focus deeply on step 1 (which is, after all, the first logical step one must take in any arean, yes?). Also, at the 5:00 service, we had to be careful of our time limits, and therefore the ministry time after the message could not be as aggessive as I would have liked. The minsitry time after the second service, however, was really powerfully anointed by the Holy Spirit (as was that after the first service), and people had the freedom to stay to seek the Lord and stay under His anointing without constraint.
I thank the Lord for every opportunity to share His Love and His Word, and folks here asked me to thank you for being willing to "lend me to the nations" for His purposes. They send to you all their love, their blessings and their prayer to encourage you. That's the Body of Christ at work, yes? Yes!!
Bob in Brazil ~ "Todas coisas da minha vida estão nos mãos do meu Pai!"
(All things of my life are in the hands of my Father!)
On Sunday morning, I shared with a Men's Group (part of their small group / cell group programs). Several of the men had been in the service the evening before, and they were deeply stirred and convicted about what they had heard, and as they shared this with the other brothers in the small group, it stirred up a very active discussion and ministry time. I also had the opportunity to share with them concerning the ministry of "The Voice of the Martyrs." Bless God!
On Sunday Evening we had two services and ministered at 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. The topic was the Four Reguirements for Revival. Due to time constraints, I could only preview steps 2-4 and focus deeply on step 1 (which is, after all, the first logical step one must take in any arean, yes?). Also, at the 5:00 service, we had to be careful of our time limits, and therefore the ministry time after the message could not be as aggessive as I would have liked. The minsitry time after the second service, however, was really powerfully anointed by the Holy Spirit (as was that after the first service), and people had the freedom to stay to seek the Lord and stay under His anointing without constraint.
I thank the Lord for every opportunity to share His Love and His Word, and folks here asked me to thank you for being willing to "lend me to the nations" for His purposes. They send to you all their love, their blessings and their prayer to encourage you. That's the Body of Christ at work, yes? Yes!!
Bob in Brazil ~ "Todas coisas da minha vida estão nos mãos do meu Pai!"
(All things of my life are in the hands of my Father!)
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Brazil Ministry Update
Oopah! Greetings from Marilha! Apparaently we had some translation/communications "oops" in my understanding of where Marilha is. It is not in the city of São Paolo, after all! It is however in the State of São Paolo :-). The city of Londrina is about 2/3 of the size of Indianapolis, and Marilha is about 2/3 the size of Londrina. It is about a 2 1/2 hour drive northeast of Londrina and lies approximately 5 hours west of the city of São Paolo. That said, I am working here specifically with the First Baptist Church of Marilha. My interpreter is an American, David, who has lived here for more than 20 years, so the message for the church last night flowed beautifully, praise God! In our time of sharing before our first message, I shared with him the vision the Lord gave me in 2004 for Brazil to become a leader among the Western nations in sending out missionaries to the rest of the world, and I also shared my burden to be used of God to strengthen the Spiritual and Biblical Foundations of this up and coming generation of adolescents and young adults.
In David's sharing with me, in response to my questions about this church and its involvemnt with misisons, he shared that they were heavily involved with missions in many countries already with additonal plans to expand their missions outreach to Japan and Iraq. I asked him why he thought Pastor Enoc of Londrina would have so strongly recommended that I would come to this church inasmuch as they already have an ongoing misisons program here. David shared that he thought the timing of my coming to share with them is definitely of the Lord for two reasons.
First, the dimension that I am bringing to the congregation and to its pastor and leaders is a different approach, i.e. sending forth members of their own congregation in addition to their support for misisons through their denomination. This really touched his heart, and he quickly saw the increased dimension of power in prayer and support for those who are sent out when it is "our sons and daughters, our fathers and mothers, etc." Second, he said that there is almost an undercurrent of the assumption that this is an "adult" calling. The fact that I have a burden for the teens and young adults is a dimension that he felt was (a) much needed and (b) would receive a very powerful response.
I shared with him concerning my encouragement for young people, wo are so called, to complete their graduate stdudies and gain employment with international companies that would pay for them to go into countries as engineers, doctors, chemist, et. al.. These young professionals will be warmly received by those countries who need their skills, although these same nations would refuse them entry into the country if they attempted to come as self- identified Christian missionaries. These "undercover agents for the gospel," can perform the duties for their emplyers and the host counttries, and, at the same time, can begin the work of evangelism to start new underground church movements. David said that he knew this was the Word of the Lord for these young people at this time.
I truly thank the Lord for this confirmation and for David's encouragement. We are laying all of this on the altar before the Lord for His perfect will to be accomplished through these messages. Thank for your continuing prayer support. Praise God, I am in good health in almost every area, and when I am under His anointing to deliver His Word, "I feel no pain!" ~ Hallelujah!! Deus abencoes, Amados! (God Bless you, Beloved Ones!)
In the Lamb ~ Bob Preston In Brasil
"My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to accomplish His works." ~ John 4:34
In David's sharing with me, in response to my questions about this church and its involvemnt with misisons, he shared that they were heavily involved with missions in many countries already with additonal plans to expand their missions outreach to Japan and Iraq. I asked him why he thought Pastor Enoc of Londrina would have so strongly recommended that I would come to this church inasmuch as they already have an ongoing misisons program here. David shared that he thought the timing of my coming to share with them is definitely of the Lord for two reasons.
First, the dimension that I am bringing to the congregation and to its pastor and leaders is a different approach, i.e. sending forth members of their own congregation in addition to their support for misisons through their denomination. This really touched his heart, and he quickly saw the increased dimension of power in prayer and support for those who are sent out when it is "our sons and daughters, our fathers and mothers, etc." Second, he said that there is almost an undercurrent of the assumption that this is an "adult" calling. The fact that I have a burden for the teens and young adults is a dimension that he felt was (a) much needed and (b) would receive a very powerful response.
I shared with him concerning my encouragement for young people, wo are so called, to complete their graduate stdudies and gain employment with international companies that would pay for them to go into countries as engineers, doctors, chemist, et. al.. These young professionals will be warmly received by those countries who need their skills, although these same nations would refuse them entry into the country if they attempted to come as self- identified Christian missionaries. These "undercover agents for the gospel," can perform the duties for their emplyers and the host counttries, and, at the same time, can begin the work of evangelism to start new underground church movements. David said that he knew this was the Word of the Lord for these young people at this time.
I truly thank the Lord for this confirmation and for David's encouragement. We are laying all of this on the altar before the Lord for His perfect will to be accomplished through these messages. Thank for your continuing prayer support. Praise God, I am in good health in almost every area, and when I am under His anointing to deliver His Word, "I feel no pain!" ~ Hallelujah!! Deus abencoes, Amados! (God Bless you, Beloved Ones!)
In the Lamb ~ Bob Preston In Brasil
"My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to accomplish His works." ~ John 4:34
Friday, June 20, 2008
Brazil Ministry Update
Greetings from Londrina, Brazil! I arrived in Londrina on June 9 and today, June 20, I am preparing to leave for three days in Marilha, São Paolo. São Paolo is the "New York" of Brazil, if you will - their largest city. Marilha is considered to be its own city (comparable to a burrough in N.Y.). My time in Londrina has been very pleasant. We had some bitter cold weather just after I arrived - the coldest I have ever experienced here in 14 visits over the past 13 years. It was getting down to 35 degrees F. at night, and because we are right on the Tropic of Capricorn, these homes are not equipped with entral heating; nor do they have portable heaters.
Therefore, it was multiple layers of clothes, very fast runs to the bathroom at night, and "Brrrr!" ~Gloria Deus! :0)
The ministry aspect regarding missions is going slower than I had hoped, but I am not discouraged, because in additon to preaching to 3 congregations and teaching at the meeting for the Cell Group leaders, I have had some real quality time to share with the leadership of all 14 congregations here about the visison for the Brazileiros to raise up and send forth missionaries to the world. In every service and at every opportunity, I share the vision for Misisons for the churches of Brazil to send forth missionaries to the U.S. and to 4 Corners of the Earth. (This was the vision the Lord gave me while speaking at a city-wide Youth Rally here in Londrina in 2004). They have a weekly TADEL meeting (Training and Development of Evangelico Leaders). I had the privelege to speak to these key leaders last week and am scheduled to do so again for "part 2" next week when I reutrn to Londrina from Marilha.
This trip to Marilha is significant, because it is my first "in-road" into the churces in that part of the ocuntry, and Pastor Enoc (senior pastor here in Londrina of The Baptist Church of Glory) has informed me that (somehow) the word has already begun to go forth in other areas of São Paolo about the vision the Lord has given us, and I have an invitation for another large church in that city when I return next year. In Marilha I will speak at a Youth rally on Saturday night followed by a special service to the church's leadership. (Youth Rallys here are really "Awesome!" All of the teens sit in the front rows; seated all over the floor in front of the teens are their younger beothers and sister, and seated behind them are their parents an d grandparents, praying for their young people and cheering them on. Can you imagine the Joy ~ the release of the power of the Holy Spirit that comes upon us all in such a setting? Wow!)
Sunday night I will speak to the full church at their services at 5:00 and 7:00. (In Brazil, the Sunday School and special classes for leadership training are held in the morning, and the large Celebration Services are in the evening. This is truly a "later in the day" culture than we experience as Americanos. :)
The enemy has sent his "little foxes to spoil the vine" with a lot of "techno-attack" strategies - you know, problems and glitches with computer, e-mail, etc., blah, blah :). He is so lame! All glory to Jesus Christ, O Senhor do senhores e O Rei dos reis (the Lord of lords and the King of kings). He deserves all honor, glory, adoration and all of our attention and focus in todas coisas em nossas vidas (everything in our lives). I love it!
God is blessing me with a constant flow of revelations and insights in the Word. The pastors here are extremely interested in and focused on seeking the Lord for revival - more than at any time I have ever experienced with them (silly me, duh - I thought they were in revival!) Ah, well - as I sensed the depths of their hearts I began focusing all of my time and energy on aggressively seeking the Lord in prayer, and the result is that in every moment of my free times, other than devotional reading and Bible study and prayer, I have begun to put together what the Lord has been revealing to my heart.
The Lord knew of the Enemy's "techno-attack" strategy before he ever began to put it into play against me, because I had a sense that I needed to take a thumb drive with me; I purchased a 4 gig unit just before I left the States and keep it with me at all times so that I can back up everything that I put into the computer. (Take that, diablo - Sai, em o nome do Senhor Jesus ~ Take that, devil - GO, in the name of the Lord Jesus! - Yeah!)
I would like to post a special word of thanks to Patrick Poer and Kaleb Captain of Nora Christian Fellowship and to my two sons, Bryndon and Jason, who really helped me to take another step into the 21st regarding my abilities to work with and progressive (albeit slow) learning curve to enable me to communicate with you through this blog while still in Brazil. I have the full assurance that this progress will continue post haste when I return to the States and continue recieve their excellent tutoring. Thank you, guys! Praise God!
I love and appreciate you all so much!! Thank you for your financial, emotional, and spiritual support, for your love and friendship, and for your prayers to undergird and overshadow me and the ministry of Fresh Bread and especially for Mary Jane's health and safety while we are apart. You beloved Brothers and Sister in Christ mean far more to me than mere words can communicate! Deus Abencoe (God Bless You!).
In the Lamb ~ Bob Preston in Brazil
"My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to accomplish His works." ~ John 4:34
Therefore, it was multiple layers of clothes, very fast runs to the bathroom at night, and "Brrrr!" ~Gloria Deus! :0)
The ministry aspect regarding missions is going slower than I had hoped, but I am not discouraged, because in additon to preaching to 3 congregations and teaching at the meeting for the Cell Group leaders, I have had some real quality time to share with the leadership of all 14 congregations here about the visison for the Brazileiros to raise up and send forth missionaries to the world. In every service and at every opportunity, I share the vision for Misisons for the churches of Brazil to send forth missionaries to the U.S. and to 4 Corners of the Earth. (This was the vision the Lord gave me while speaking at a city-wide Youth Rally here in Londrina in 2004). They have a weekly TADEL meeting (Training and Development of Evangelico Leaders). I had the privelege to speak to these key leaders last week and am scheduled to do so again for "part 2" next week when I reutrn to Londrina from Marilha.
This trip to Marilha is significant, because it is my first "in-road" into the churces in that part of the ocuntry, and Pastor Enoc (senior pastor here in Londrina of The Baptist Church of Glory) has informed me that (somehow) the word has already begun to go forth in other areas of São Paolo about the vision the Lord has given us, and I have an invitation for another large church in that city when I return next year. In Marilha I will speak at a Youth rally on Saturday night followed by a special service to the church's leadership. (Youth Rallys here are really "Awesome!" All of the teens sit in the front rows; seated all over the floor in front of the teens are their younger beothers and sister, and seated behind them are their parents an d grandparents, praying for their young people and cheering them on. Can you imagine the Joy ~ the release of the power of the Holy Spirit that comes upon us all in such a setting? Wow!)
Sunday night I will speak to the full church at their services at 5:00 and 7:00. (In Brazil, the Sunday School and special classes for leadership training are held in the morning, and the large Celebration Services are in the evening. This is truly a "later in the day" culture than we experience as Americanos. :)
The enemy has sent his "little foxes to spoil the vine" with a lot of "techno-attack" strategies - you know, problems and glitches with computer, e-mail, etc., blah, blah :). He is so lame! All glory to Jesus Christ, O Senhor do senhores e O Rei dos reis (the Lord of lords and the King of kings). He deserves all honor, glory, adoration and all of our attention and focus in todas coisas em nossas vidas (everything in our lives). I love it!
God is blessing me with a constant flow of revelations and insights in the Word. The pastors here are extremely interested in and focused on seeking the Lord for revival - more than at any time I have ever experienced with them (silly me, duh - I thought they were in revival!) Ah, well - as I sensed the depths of their hearts I began focusing all of my time and energy on aggressively seeking the Lord in prayer, and the result is that in every moment of my free times, other than devotional reading and Bible study and prayer, I have begun to put together what the Lord has been revealing to my heart.
The Lord knew of the Enemy's "techno-attack" strategy before he ever began to put it into play against me, because I had a sense that I needed to take a thumb drive with me; I purchased a 4 gig unit just before I left the States and keep it with me at all times so that I can back up everything that I put into the computer. (Take that, diablo - Sai, em o nome do Senhor Jesus ~ Take that, devil - GO, in the name of the Lord Jesus! - Yeah!)
I would like to post a special word of thanks to Patrick Poer and Kaleb Captain of Nora Christian Fellowship and to my two sons, Bryndon and Jason, who really helped me to take another step into the 21st regarding my abilities to work with and progressive (albeit slow) learning curve to enable me to communicate with you through this blog while still in Brazil. I have the full assurance that this progress will continue post haste when I return to the States and continue recieve their excellent tutoring. Thank you, guys! Praise God!
I love and appreciate you all so much!! Thank you for your financial, emotional, and spiritual support, for your love and friendship, and for your prayers to undergird and overshadow me and the ministry of Fresh Bread and especially for Mary Jane's health and safety while we are apart. You beloved Brothers and Sister in Christ mean far more to me than mere words can communicate! Deus Abencoe (God Bless You!).
In the Lamb ~ Bob Preston in Brazil
"My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to accomplish His works." ~ John 4:34
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