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21 DAYS OF FASTING AND PRAYER

Table of Contents

NOTE FROM PASTOR JOHN | 2

FASTING ZONE | 3

FASTING OPTIONS | 5

FASTING AND EATING DISORDERS | 7

BEGINNING & BREAKING YOUR FAST WELL | 8

OTHER THOUGHTS ON FASTING | 9

BIBLE READING | 10

APPLY SOAP | 11

FINAL THOUGHTS | 12

21 DAYS BEGINS | 13

21 DAYS OF FASTING & PRAYER

1

A Note From Pastor JohnDistractions. Life is full of them. And more times than not, they keep us from focusing on the most important thing – our relationship with Jesus. Therefore we need opportunities for a laser-like focus on Jesus. And that’s exactly why we’re taking 21 Days to connect with Him.

IMAGINE WHAT COULD HAPPEN...if for 21 Days you connected with Jesus through

PRAYER, FASTING & BIBLE READING.

It has the possibilities of making a huge difference in your life, in those you love, and in Crossroads. So why not choose to join us for 21 days.

This devotional guide is provided to assist you in walking through the 21 days. You’ll find a brief bible reading as well as a few prayer points for each of the 21 days. You’ll also discover helpful instruction on how to read the Bible, how to pray, and how to fast.

God used our last 21 days initiative in August 2020 to change a lot of lives. I believe that is going to be multiplied this year.

Join us. But don’t just join us because it seems like the right thing to do. No, join us expecting Jesus to do something big in your life and in Crossroads.

JESUS SAID, “ACCORDING TO YOUR FAITH WILL

IT BE DONE TO YOU.” – MATTHEW 9:29

Take 10 or 15 minutes to look over this booklet. You’ll discover some helpful hints on how to move through 21 days successfully. I am praying that Jesus will reveal himself to you like never before!

Anticipating Good,

John Clark, Lead Pastor


2

Fasting Zone

While any fast involves abstinence from food or at least certain types of food, typically, different fasting combinations work better for different people. The goal to having a successful fast is all about finding what some call your FAST ZONE, and that is different for everybody and can change depending on the season you are in.

FAST ZONE:• a place where you feel light and spiritually in tune

• your mind is easily focused on God and spiritual things• you have an increased spiritual energy

• you can feel the fast working

Just like runners know what their target heart rate is to see the benefits of their physical training, the FAST ZONE is similar in a spiritual sense.


3

Fasting OptionsAs you prepare to fast, it is important to choose a fasting option that works for you. While this section provides some general information about different types of fasts, as well as some suggestions on how to create your own fasting plan, it is important to mention that there is nothing more inherently spiritual about one type of fast as opposed to another.

These are simply guidelines on different things you can do. Do not let what you eat or don’t eat become the focus. Keep the main thing the main thing, which is drawing closer to Jesus. Remember, this is a time to disconnect enough from your regular patterns and habits in order to connect more closely to Him. Here are a few tips to keep in mind before getting started:


Start Where You Are

We are all at different places in our walk with God. Likewise our jobs, daily schedules, and health conditions are all different and place various levels of demands on our energy. So most importantly, whether you’ve fasted before or this is your first time, start where you are.

Caffeine

Should you completely cut it out? It depends. The great thing is, when you fast, your body automatically craves less caffeine. If you can stay in your Fast Zone with a little caffeine, great. If you are going on a longer fast and want to cut it out of your diet completely, that’s great too. But ease yourself off and make it your goal to be completely caffeine free about two-thirds of the way into your fast. If you regularly have a high caffeine intake, one of the worst mistakes you can make is to fast for one to three days, cutting caffeine out abruptly and completely. Please don’t do that or you will spend this time grumpy and in withdrawal instead of enjoying God’s presence.

Be Wise

Your personal fast should present a level of challenge to it, but it’s very important to know your own body, know your options and, most importantly, seek Jesus in prayer and follow His lead.

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Fasting OptionsThere isn’t one fasting option that works the same for everyone. Follow Jesus’ leading, mix it up, find what works for you, and stay in your Fasting Zone.

DANIEL FAST

The Daniel Fast is a great model to follow and one that is extremely effective for spiritual focus, bodily discipline, and purification of the body and soul.

It is probably one of the most commonly referred-to fasts; however, within the Daniel fast there is room for broad interpretation. In the book of Daniel we find two different times where the prophet Daniel fasted. Daniel 1 states that he only ate vegetables and water, and in Daniel 10, while the passage does not give a specific list of foods that Daniel ate, it does state that he ate no rich (or choice) foods, as well as no meat or wine. So based on these two verses, we can see that either of these, or combinations of the two, constitute a Daniel fast.

Again, it is important to mention that there is nothing inherently spiritual about one type of fast as opposed to another. The foundation of the Daniel fast is fruits and vegetables. Might this work for you? Just remember to find your personal Fasting Zone.


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SPECIFIC FOOD OR ACTIVITY

In this type of fast you omit a specific item(s) from your meal plans. For example, you may choose to eliminate all red meat, processed or fast food, or sweets. Most people can incorporate this type of fast relatively easily. It can also prove to be a great solution for people with specific dietary needs or medical conditions that may cause certain limitations.

While fasting typically refers to refraining from specific food items, you may also find it extremely beneficial to fast from a regular activity or habit. This might include things such as television, social media, shopping, alcohol, and the like.

JUICE FAST

A juice fast is simply consuming vegetable and fruit juices and water instead of solid food. Many people include whey protein in their liquid plan as well. Even if you choose not to make your entire fast liquids only, substituting one or two meals for liquids is a great alternative. If you choose the juice-only fast, consider a shorter fast than 21 days.

FASTING & EATING DISORDERS

If you have struggled with an eating disorder then consider fasting from television, social media, shopping, or some other favorite activity.

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Beginning & Breaking

Depending on the type of fast you choose, it is very important to prepare your body ahead of time before beginning the fast. Take some days to transition into your fast; otherwise, you could get sick.

For example, if you would like to go on a fruits and vegetables or juice fast, start eliminating meat, white grains, and refined sugars from your diet the week before. Also start to cut back quite a bit on dairy products and some of your caffeine intake.

The same principle applies to breaking your fast. When your fast is over, add foods back in very gradually. Please don’t break your fast with a greasy cheeseburger! Because your body is so cleansed and detoxified, you will most likely get sick if you do that. There are also several supplements you can take that will help support the detox process during your fast. Your health-food store can give you recommendations.


8

Other ThoughtsMake it a priority to participate in weekly worship gatherings. Being around other Christ-followers will encourage you to keep on going when fasting gets difficult. If you are fasting with others, you may want to set aside time for a weekly Group Gathering.

As you select your type of fast, you may want to make a fasting calendar that fits your plan. Determining what each day and week will look like is wise.

Keep your fridge and pantry stocked with the items you need. Being unprepared to fast sets you up to give into temptation. Choose well when selecting products, stick to raw food as much as you can, and limit artificial ingredients.

R E M E M B E R ,don’t let food become the focus of your fast,

but make wise eating choices.

Drink lots of water while fasting to support critical liver function. The liver is the filter for the body, so when you don’t drink enough water, the liver doesn’t function at its highest capacity.

To keep your energy up throughout the day, it’s important to eat or drink every two and a half to three hours. Be careful not to over-stuff, even if you are only eating fruits and vegetables.

If you slip up, don’t get discouraged. Just get right back on track and keep going. He wants you to finish, and He will give you the grace and strength to do it. Talk to God and give Him time and space to talk to you.


9


HOWEVER, THIS KIND DOES NOT GO OUT EXCEPT BY PRAYER AND FASTING.

– Matthew 17:21 (NKJV)

As you prepare for your time of bible reading, prayer and fasting, it can be tempting to start thinking of a huge list of prayers you’d love to see answered. But we encourage you to keep this simple.

Think about the top two or three things most pressing on you and focus on them. Write these down in the space provided below, and be open to hearing what God wants to show you. The breakthroughs, miracles, and answers to your prayers will be by-products of drawing closer to Jesus.

When praying and fasting, set aside as your primary goal to know Jesus more and experience Him.

Seek to take time daily to pray.

DON’T OVER-COMPLICATE IT!

Just talk to God. Have that place and time where you can connect with Him daily. If you don’t plan to pray, you won’t.

During this 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting, I am praying and believing God for:

Important Note: Fasting requires reasonable precautions. If you have any health concerns, please consult your physician prior to beginning your fast, especially if you are taking any medication, have a chronic condition, or are pregnant or nursing a baby.

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Bible ReadingJust like prayer and fasting, reading your Bible is about connecting to God in a more powerful way. It is not about duty, but relationship. When we engage God through reading His word, we engage the very presence of God.

As we read our Bible, we are drawing closer to God and positioning ourselves to hear from Him in particular ways.

Once again, as with prayer, choose the time and the place where you are going to read your Bible and daily devotional, and come prepared to hear what He wants to tell you.

Here are 3 QUICK THINGS we’d like to share with you about how to get the most out of

your devotional time with God.

1. READ CONSISTENTLY: It is better to read a little every day than to try and knock out two hours of Bible reading or devotions in one sitting. It is so important to digest the word in easy-to-absorb chunks. Don’t bite off more than you can chew, and certainly don’t compare your “performance” with that of others. If you miss a few days, pick up at the next reading, but stay with it and don’t give up.

The key is to keep this simple and make it sustainable. We recommend the reading plan in this devotional.

2. READ PRAYERFULLY: Talk to Jesus as you’re reading. Don’t rush through. If you come across something you don’t understand, pause for a moment and ask God about it. Reading prayerfully is making space and time to talk to God and giving Him time and space to talk to you.

3. READ EXPECTANTLY: Believe that Jesus is going to speak to you through His word. With meditation on the ideas and thoughts recorded in your journal, be prepared to do something with what He shows you.


10


Apply Soap!You can also apply the SOAP method to your prayer life during this time. The SOAP method works like this:

S SCRIPTURE

Read prayerfully. Take notice of which scripture(s) catches your attentionand mark it in your Bible or write it in your journal.

O OBSERVATION

Focusing on that scripture, tune in and listen to what Jesus is saying to you through His Word.

A APPLICATION

Think of how this verse(s) applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, or correction for a

particular area of your life.

PPRAYER

Talk to God about what you’ve just read. Prayer is all about relationship. It’s a two-way conversation,

so be sure to listen to what God is telling you.

That’s it! SOAP It’s as simple or deep as you want it to be.

11

Final ThoughtsJust like reading your Bible, praying and attending church, fasting is also a lifestyle. We encourage you to establish a frequency and consistency of fasting in your life.

It is like going into Heaven for a tune up, so we can keep our passion for Jesus and enjoyment of Him at a high level. We encourage you to do the same. Figure out what works for you, commit to it and make it a part of your life.

If you have a personal story you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you and celebrate what Jesus has done in your life during this 21 day journey. Share your story at [email protected]. You can also share your story on social media and tag #crossroadson23. Don’t ever settle for anything less than a life full of passion and spiritual zeal for Jesus.

Keep the fire for Jesus burning in your heart and do whatever it takes to feed your spiritual hunger for Him. We are praying for you as you do!


R E M E M B E R ,this is not a “have to” thing.

T H I S I S A N“I get to experience Jesus” thing.

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13

and now. . . let the

21 day journey begin!

HAVE MERCY ON ME, O GOD,ACCORDING TO YOUR UNFAILING LOVE;ACCORDING TO YOUR GREAT COMPASSIONBLOT OUT MY TRANSGRESSIONS.

WASH AWAY ALL MY INQUIRYAND CLEANSE ME FROM MY SIN.FOR I KNOW MY TRANSGRESSIONS,AND MY SIN IS ALWAYS BEFORE ME.

AGAINST YOU, YOU ONLY, HAVE I SINNEDAND DONE WHAT IS EVIL IN YOUR SIGHT;SO YOU ARE RIGHT IN YOUR VERDICTAND JUSTIFIED WHEN YOU JUDGE

SURELY I WAS SINFUL AT BIRTH,SINFUL FROM THE TIME MY MOTHER CONCEIVED ME.

YET YOU DESIRED FAITHFULNESS EVEN IN THE WOMB;YOU TAUGHT ME WISDOM IN THAT SECRET PLACE.

CLEANSE ME WITH HYSSOP, AND I WILL BE CLEAN;WAS ME, AND I WILL BE WHITER THAN SNOW.

LET ME HEAR JOY AND GLADNESS;LET THE BONES YOU HAVE CRUSHED REJOICE.

HIDE YOUR FACE FROM MY SINSAND BLOT OUT ALL MY INIQUITY

CREATE IN ME A PURE HEART, O GOD,AND RENEW A STEADFAST SPIRIT WITHIN ME.

DO NOT CAST ME FROM YOUR PRESENCEOR TAKE YOUR HOLY SPIRIT FROM ME.

RESTORE TO ME THE JOY OF YOUR SALVATIONAND GRANT ME A WILLING SPIRIT, TO SUSTAIN ME.

THEN I WILL TEACH YOUR TRANSGRESSORS YOUR WAYS, SO THAT SINNERS WILL TURN BACK TO YOU.

DAY 1 EXTENDED READING

PSALM 51:1-13

Day One

VersePSALM 51:2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my skin.

Extended Reading SEE PG 11 FOR MORE INFO

SCRIPTURE: PSALM 51:1–13

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to help you be ruthlessly honest in confessing your sins.CROSSROADS: Pray that our church family would grow closer to Jesus during these 21 Days. OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Mission Partner – 1 Matters – as Tent City returns or 2021 to reach and serve the homeless community October 22–24.


(WHAT VERSE(S) CATCHES MY ATTENTION)

(WHAT IS JESUS SAYING TO ME)

(WHAT DO I NEED TO DO)

(WHAT DO I NEED TO TALK TO GOD ABOUT?)

SUNDAY, AUGUST 8

IS ANYONE AMONG YOU IN TROUBLE? LET THEM PRAY. IS ANYONE HAPPY? LET THEM SING SONGS OF PRAISE. IS ANYONE AMONG YOU SICK? LET THEM CALL THE ELDERS OF THE CHURCH TO PRAY OVER THEM AND ANOINT THEM WITH OIL IN THE NAME OF THE LORD. 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. THEREFORE CONFESS YOUR SINS TO EACH OTHER AND PRAY FOR EACH OTHER SO THAT YOU MAY BE HEALED. THE PRAYER OF A SELF RIGHTEOUS PERSON IS POWERFUL AND EFFECTIVE. ELIJAH WAS A HUMAN BEING, EVEN AS WE ARE. HE PRAYED EARNESTLY THAT IT WOULD NOT RAIN, AND IT DID NOT RAIN ON THE LAND FOR THREE AND A HALF YEARS.


JAMES 5:13–17


Day Two

VerseJAMES 5:16 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.


SCRIPTURE: JAMES 5:13–17

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to give you the courage to confess your sins to a trusted friend.CROSSROADS: Pray for people to place their faith in Jesus every week through Crossroads.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Missions Partner – Social Services for the Arab Community (SSFAC) – as they provide resources and advocate for immigrants.





MONDAY, AUGUST 9

THIS IS THE MESSAGE WE HAVE HEARD FROM HIM AND DECLARE TO YOU: GOD IS LIGHT; IN HIM THERE IS NO DARKNESS AT ALL. IF WE CLAIM TO HAVE FELLOWSHIP WITH HIM AND YET WALK IN THE DARKNESS, WE LIE AND DO NOT LIVE OUT THE TRUTH. BUT IF WE WALK IN THE LIGHT, AS HE IS IN THE LIGHT, WE HAVE FELLOWSHIP WITH ONE ANOTHER, AND THE BLOOD OF JESUS, HIS SON, PURIFIES US FROM ALL SIN. IF WE CLAIM TO BE WITHOUT SIN, WE DECEIVE OURSELVES AND THE TRUTH IS NOT IN US. IF WE CONFESS OUR SINS, HE IS FAITHFUL AND JUST AND WILL FORGIVE US OUR SINS AND PURIFY US FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS. IF CLAIM WE HAVE NOT SINNED, WE MAKE HIM OUT TO BE A LIAR AND HIS WORD IS NOT IN US.


1 JOHN 1:5—2:2

Day Three

Verse1 JOHN 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.


SCRIPTURE: 1 JOHN 1:5–2:2

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to give you the assurance of forgiveness as you confess your sins.CROSSROADS: Pray that Crossroads would live into our mission of For You, For Jesus, For a Better Life.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Mission Partner - Cherry Street Mission – as they rescue the downtrodden and restore hope to the hopeless.






TUESDAY, AUGUST 10

WHILE THE MAN HELD ON TO PETER AND JOHN, ALL THE PEOPLE WERE ASTONISHED AND CAME RUNNING TO THEM IN THE PLACE CALLED SOLOMON’S COLONNADE. WHEN PETER SAW THIS, HE SAID TO THEM: “FELLOW ISRAELITES, WHY DOES THIS SURPRISE YOU? WHY DO YOU STARE AT US AS IF BY OUR OWN POWER OR GODLINESS WE HAD MADE THIS MAN WALK? YOU HANDED HIM OVER TO BE KILLED, AND YOU DISOWNED HIM BEFORE PILATE, THOUGH HE HAD DECIDED TO LET HIM GO. YOU DISOWNED THE HOLY AND RIGHTEOUS ONE AND ASKED THAT A MURDERER BE RELEASED TO YOU. YOU KILLED THE AUTHOR OF LIFE, BUT GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD. WE ARE WITNESSES OF THIS. BY FAITH IN THE NAME OF JESUS, THIS MAN WHOM YOU SEE AND KNOW WAS MADE STRONG. IT IS JESUS’ NAME AND THE FAITH THAT COMES THROUGH HIM THAT HAS COMPLETELY HEALED HIM, AS YOU CAN ALL SEE.

“NOW, FELLOW ISRAELITES, I KNOW THAT YOU ACTED IN IGNORANCE, AS DID YOUR LEADERS. BUT THIS IS HOW GOD FULFILLED WHAT HE HAD FORETOLD THROUGH ALL THE PROPHETS, SAYING THAT HIS MESSIAH WOULD SUFFER. REPENT, THEN, AND TURN TO GOD, SO THAT YOUR SINS MAY BE WIPED OUT, THAT TIMES OF REFRESHING MAY COME FROM THE LORD,


ACTS 3:11-19


Day Four

VerseACTS 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,


SCRIPTURE: ACTS 3:11–19

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to give you “times of refreshing” as you confess your sins.CROSSROADS: Pray that Crossroads will create disciples who will create disciples.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Mission Partner – Food for Thought – as they provide mobile food pantries throughout Metro Toledo and here at Crossroads.





WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11

IN THE FIRST YEAR OF DARIUS SON OF XERXES (A MEDE BY DESCENT), WHO WAS MADE RULER OVER THE BABYLONIAN KINGDOM—IN THE FIRST YEAR OF HIS REIGN, I, DANIEL, UNDERSTOOD FROM THE SCRIPTURES, ACCORDING TO THE WORD OF THE LORD GIVEN TO JEREMIAH THE PROPHET, THAT THE DESOLATION OF JERUSALEM WOULD LAST SEVENTY YEARS. SO I TURNED TO THE LORD GOD AND PLEADED WITH HIM IN PRAYER AND PETITION, IN FASTING, AND IN SACKCLOTH AND ASHES.

I PRAYED TO THE LORD MY GOD AND CONFESSED:

“LORD, THE GREAT AND AWESOME GOD, WHO KEEPS HIS COVENANT OF LOVE WITH THOSE WHO LOVE HIM AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS, WE HAVE SINNED AND DONE WRONG. WE HAVE BEEN WICKED AND HAVE REBELLED; WE HAVE TURNED AWAY FROM YOUR COMMANDS AND LAWS. WE HAVE NOT LISTENED TO YOUR SERVANTS THE PROPHETS, WHO SPOKE IN YOUR NAME TO OUR KINGS, OUR PRINCES AND OUR ANCESTORS AND TO ALL THE PEOPLE OF THE LAND.

“LORD, YOU ARE RIGHTEOUS, BUT THIS DAY WE ARE COVERED WITH SHAME—THE PEOPLE OF JUDAH AND THE INHABITANTS OF JERUSALEM AND ALL ISRAEL, BOTH NEAR AND FAR, IN ALL THE COUNTRIES WHERE YOU HAVE SCATTERED US BECAUSE OF OUR UNFAITHFULNESS TO YOU. WE AND OUR KINGS, OUR PRINCES AND OUR ANCESTORS ARE COVERED WITH SHAME, LORD, BECAUSE WE HAVE SINNED AGAINST YOU. THE LORD OUR GOD IS MERCIFUL AND FORGIVING, EVEN THOUGH WE HAVE REBELLED AGAINST HIM; WE HAVE NOT OBEYED THE LORD OUR GOD OR KEPT THE LAWS HE GAVE US THROUGH HIS SERVANTS THE PROPHETS.


DANIEL 9:1–10

Day Five

VerseDANIEL 9:9 The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him.


SCRIPTURE: DANIEL 9:1–10

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Thank God for his mercy and forgiveness as you confess your sins.CROSSROADS: Pray that those attending All-In Membership class this weekend will learn all they need to make the decision to become All-In participating members at Crossroads.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Missions Partner – God Works – as they feed the rural poor on a weekly basis with a hot meal served here at Crossroads.






THURSDAY, AUGUST 12

SUBMIT YOURSELVES, THEN, TO GOD. RESIST THE DEVIL, AND HE WILL FLEE FROM YOU. COME NEAR TO GOD AND HE WILL COME NEAR TO YOU. WASH YOUR HANDS, YOU SINNERS, AND PURIFY YOUR HEARTS, YOU DOUBLE- MINDED. GRIEVE, MOURN AND WAIL. CHANGE YOUR LAUGHTER TO MOURNING AND YOUR JOY TO GLOOM. HUMBLE YOURSELVES BEFORE THE LORD, AND HE WILL LIFT YOU UP.


JAMES 4:7–10


Day Six

VerseJAMES 4:8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.


SCRIPTURE: JAMES 4:7–10

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to not only forgive you as you confess your sins, but also help you turn away from your sins.CROSSROADS: Pray that Crossroads’ people live into our values of Belonging and Engagement making it easy to connect here and our people being contributors, not just consumers.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Missions Partner – The Praise Garden – as they grow 3,000+ pounds of produce for those in need and donated to many local food pantries in our area.





FRIDAY, AUGUST 13

THE HAND OF THE LORD WAS ON ME, AND HE BROUGHT ME OUT BY THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD AND SET ME IN THE MIDDLE OF A VALLEY; IT WAS FULL OF BONES. HE LED ME BACK AND FORTH AMONG THEM, AND I SAW A GREAT MANY BONES ON THE FLOOR OF THE VALLEY, BONES THAT WERE VERY DRY. HE ASKED ME, “SON OF MAN, CAN THESE BONES LIVE?” I SAID, “SOVEREIGN LORD, YOU ALONE KNOW.”

THEN HE SAID TO ME, “PROPHESY TO THESE BONES AND SAY TO THEM, ‘DRY BONES, HEAR THE WORD OF THE LORD! THIS IS WHAT THE SOVEREIGN LORD SAYS TO THESE BONES: I WILL MAKE BREATH ENTER YOU, AND YOU WILL COME TO LIFE. I WILL ATTACH TENDONS TO YOU AND MAKE FLESH COME UPON YOU AND COVER YOU WITH SKIN; I WILL PUT BREATH IN YOU, AND YOU WILL COME TO LIFE. THEN YOU WILL KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD.’”

SO I PROPHESIED AS I WAS COMMANDED. AND AS I WAS PROPHESYING, THERE WAS A NOISE, A RATTLING SOUND, AND THE BONES CAME TOGETHER, BONE TO BONE. I LOOKED, AND TENDONS AND FLESH APPEARED ON THEM AND SKIN COVERED THEM, BUT THERE WAS NO BREATH IN THEM.

THEN HE SAID TO ME, “PROPHESY TO THE BREATH, PROPHESY, SON OF MAN, AND SAY TO IT, ‘THIS IS WHAT THE SOVEREIGN LORD SAYS: COME, BREATH, FROM THE FOUR WINDS AND BREATHE INTO THESE SLAIN, THAT THEY MAY LIVE.’” SO I PROPHESIED AS HE COMMANDED ME, AND BREATH ENTERED THEM; THEY CAME TO LIFE AND STOOD UP ON THEIR FEET—A VAST ARMY.


EZEKIEL 37:1–10

Day Seven VerseEZEKIEL 37:5 This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.


SCRIPTURE: EZEKIEL 37:1–10

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to breathe revival life into you.CROSSROADS: Pray that Crossroads’ people live into our values of Sacrifice and Focus by giving up our preferences for the sake of others and accomplishing more by doing less.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Missions Partner – Ebenezer Glenn Orphanage in Haiti – as they rescue, educate, and provide for orphans in Haiti.






SATURDAY, AUGUST 14

ONE DAY JESUS WAS PRAYING IN A CERTAIN PLACE. WHEN HE FINISHED, ONE OF HIS DISCIPLES SAID TO HIM, “LORD, TEACH US TO PRAY, JUST AS JOHN TAUGHT HIS DISCIPLES.”

HE SAID TO THEM, “WHEN YOU PRAY, SAY:

“FATHER,HALLOWED BE YOUR NAME,YOUR KINGDOM COME.GIVE US EACH DAY OUR DAILY BREAD.FORGIVE US OUR SINS,FOR WE ALSO FORGIVE EVERYONE WHO SINS AGAINST US.AND LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION.’”


LUKE 11:1-4


Day Eight

VerseLUKE 11:1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”


SCRIPTURE: LUKE 11:1–4

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

_

PrayersSELF: Ask Jesus to teach you how to pray by using the Lord’s Prayer CROSSROADS: Pray that Crossroads’ people live into our values of Courage and Impact... doing anything short of sin to reach people for Jesus and being on mission to multiply.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads World Mission Partners – Chance and Dee Dee Galloway in Bulgaria and the Balkans – as they continue to reach the Roma (gypsy) people through church planting, empowering and equipping pastors, and establishing sustainable farming projects.





SUNDAY, AUGUST 15

THE DEVIL LED HIM UP TO A HIGH PLACE AND SHOWED HIM IN AN INSTANT ALL THE KINGDOMS OF THE WORLD. AND HE SAID TO HIM, “I WILL GIVE YOU ALL THEIR AUTHORITY AND SPLENDOR; IT HAS BEEN GIVEN TO ME, AND I CAN GIVE IT TO ANYONE I WANT TO. IF YOU WORSHIP ME, IT WILL ALL BE YOURS.”

JESUS ANSWERED, “IT IS WRITTEN: ‘WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD AND SERVE HIM ONLY.’”

THE DEVIL LED HIM TO JERUSALEM AND HAD HIM STAND ON THE HIGHEST POINT OF THE TEMPLE. “IF YOU ARE THE SON OF GOD,” HE SAID, “THROW YOURSELF DOWN FROM HERE. FOR IT IS WRITTEN:

“‘HE WILL COMMAND HIS ANGELS CONCERNING YOUTO GUARD YOU CAREFULLY;THEY WILL LIFT YOU UP IN THEIR HANDS,SO THAT YOU WILL NOT STRIKE YOUR FOOT AGAINST A STONE.’”


LUKE 4:5–11

Day Nine

VerseLUKE 4:9 The devil led him to Jerusalem and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down from here.



OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Boldly ask God to answer your most important prayer request today.CROSSROADS: Pray that this week people decide to take the next step in their faith and get Baptized on August 29th. OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Mission Partners – Al & Diane Mellinger (Bulgaria) – as they continue to give oversight to missionaries and churches in Bulgaria.






MONDAY, AUGUST 16

THEN JESUS TOLD HIS DISCIPLES A PARABLE TO SHOW THEM THAT THEY SHOULD ALWAYS PRAY AND NOT GIVE UP. HE SAID: “IN A CERTAIN TOWN THERE WAS A JUDGE WHO NEITHER FEARED GOD NOR CARED WHAT PEOPLE THOUGHT. AND THERE WAS A WIDOW IN THAT TOWN WHO KEPT COMING TO HIM WITH THE PLEA, ‘GRANT ME JUSTICE AGAINST MY ADVERSARY.’

“FOR SOME TIME HE REFUSED. BUT FINALLY HE SAID TO HIMSELF, ‘EVEN THOUGH I DON’T FEAR GOD OR CARE WHAT PEOPLE THINK, YET BECAUSE THIS WIDOW KEEPS BOTHERING ME, I WILL SEE THAT SHE GETS JUSTICE, SO THAT SHE WON’T EVENTUALLY COME AND ATTACK ME!’”

AND THE LORD SAID, “LISTEN TO WHAT THE UNJUST JUDGE SAYS. AND WILL NOT GOD BRING ABOUT JUSTICE FOR HIS CHOSEN ONES, WHO CRY OUT TO HIM DAY AND NIGHT? WILL HE KEEP PUTTING THEM OFF? I TELL YOU, HE WILL SEE THAT THEY GET JUSTICE, AND QUICKLY. HOWEVER, WHEN THE SON OF MAN COMES, WILL HE FIND FAITH ON THE EARTH?”


LUKE 18:1–8


Day Ten

VerseLUKE 18:1 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.



OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to help you persist in prayer. CROSSROADS: Pray for the Hospitality Ministry at Crossroads...for dozens of new volunteers passionate about serving in this role.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Mission Partner – The Pregnancy Center – as they continue to create a safe, confidential place for women to be educated about their pregnancy and champion the cause for the unborn.





TUESDAY, AUGUST 17

“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AND HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ BUT I TELL YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES AND PRAY FOR THOSE WHO PERSECUTE YOU, THAT YOU MAY BE CHILDREN OF YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN. HE CAUSES HIS SUN TO RISE ON THE EVIL AND THE GOOD, AND SENDS RAIN ON THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE UNRIGHTEOUS. IF YOU LOVE THOSE WHO LOVE YOU, WHAT REWARD WILL YOU GET? ARE NOT EVEN THE TAX COLLECTORS DOING THAT? AND IF YOU GREET ONLY YOUR OWN PEOPLE, WHAT ARE YOU DOING MORE THAN OTHERS? DO NOT EVEN PAGANS DO THAT? BE PERFECT, THEREFORE, AS YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER IS PERFECT.


MATTHEW 5:43–48

Day Eleven

VerseMATTHEW 5:44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you...”


SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 5:43-48

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to help you forgive anyone who has hurt you. CROSSROADS: Pray for Crossroads Dundee as they plan and prepare to launch a Microsite in October.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads Missions Partner – Pastor Hytham in Jordan – as he leads the Marka Church and oversees the ministry to Iraqi and Syrian refugees.







THEN JESUS WENT WITH HIS DISCIPLES TO A PLACE CALLED GETHSEMANE, AND HE SAID TO THEM, “SIT HERE WHILE I GO OVER THERE AND PRAY.” HE TOOK PETER AND THE TWO SONS OF ZEBEDEE ALONG WITH HIM, AND HE BEGAN TO BE SORROWFUL AND TROU-BLED. THEN HE SAID TO THEM, “MY SOUL IS OVER-WHELMED WITH SORROW TO THE POINT OF DEATH. STAY HERE AND KEEP WATCH WITH ME.”

GOING A LITTLE FARTHER, HE FELL WITH HIS FACE TO THE GROUND AND PRAYED, “MY FATHER, IF IT IS POSSIBLE, MAY THIS CUP BE TAKEN FROM ME. YET NOT AS I WILL, BUT AS YOU WILL.”

THEN HE RETURNED TO HIS DISCIPLES AND FOUND THEM SLEEPING. “COULDN’T YOU MEN KEEP WATCH WITH ME FOR ONE HOUR?” HE ASKED PETER. “WATCH AND PRAY SO THAT YOU WILL NOT FALL INTO TEMPTATION. THE SPIRIT IS WILLING, BUT THE FLESH IS WEAK.”

HE WENT AWAY A SECOND TIME AND PRAYED, “MY FATHER, IF IT IS NOT POSSIBLE FOR THIS CUP TO BE TAKEN AWAY UNLESS I DRINK IT, MAY YOUR WILL BE DONE.”

WHEN HE CAME BACK, HE AGAIN FOUND THEM SLEEPING, BECAUSE THEIR EYES WERE HEAVY. SO HE LEFT THEM AND WENT AWAY ONCE MORE AND PRAYED THE THIRD TIME, SAYING THE SAME THING.

THEN HE RETURNED TO THE DISCIPLES AND SAID TO THEM, “ARE YOU STILL SLEEPING AND RESTING? LOOK, THE HOUR HAS COME, AND THE SON OF MAN IS DELIV-ERED INTO THE HANDS OF SINNERS. RISE! LET US GO! HERE COMES MY BETRAYER!”


MATTHEW 26:36–46


Day Twelve

VerseMATTHEW 26:39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”


SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 26:36–46

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask Jesus to help you surrender to his will in your life.CROSSROADS: Pray for Crossroads Sylvania as they plan and prepare to launch a Microsite in October.OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads World Mission Partner – Dale Woods (Impact Middle East) – as he continues to oversee the work of the Free Methodist family in multiple Middle Eastern countries.





FRIDAY, AUGUST 19

REJOICE IN THE LORD ALWAYS. I WILL SAY IT AGAIN: REJOICE! LET YOUR GENTLENESS BE EVIDENT TO ALL. THE LORD IS NEAR. DO NOT BE ANXIOUS ABOUT ANYTHING, BUT IN EVERY SITUATION, BY PRAYER AND PETITION, WITH THANKSGIVING, PRESENT YOUR REQUESTS TO GOD. AND THE PEACE OF GOD, WHICH TRANSCENDS ALL UNDERSTANDING, WILL GUARD YOUR HEARTS AND YOUR MINDS IN CHRIST JESUS.

FINALLY, BROTHERS AND SISTERS, WHATEVER IS TRUE, WHATEVER IS NOBLE, WHATEVER IS RIGHT, WHATEVER IS PURE, WHATEVER IS LOVELY, WHATEVER IS ADMIRABLE—IF ANYTHING IS EXCELLENT OR PRAISEWORTHY—THINK ABOUT SUCH THINGS. WHATEVER YOU HAVE LEARNED OR RECEIVED OR HEARD FROM ME, OR SEEN IN ME—PUT IT INTO PRACTICE. AND THE GOD OF PEACE WILL BE WITH YOU.


PHILIPPIANS 4:4–9

Day Thirteen

VersePHILIPPIANS 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!


SCRIPTURE: PHILIPPIANS 4:4–9

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to enable you to rejoice in him daily.CROSSROADS: Pray that our Velocity students (Junior and High School) will grow closer to Christ, have a personal relationship with Jesus, and have a contagious faith to their friends. OUTREACH: Pray for Christ-followers who are being persecuted all over the world.






SATURDAY, AUGUST 20

I URGE, THEN, FIRST OF ALL, THAT PETITIONS, PRAYERS, INTERCESSION AND THANKSGIVING BE MADE FOR ALL PEOPLE— FOR KINGS AND ALL THOSE IN AUTHORITY, THAT WE MAY LIVE PEACEFUL AND QUIET LIVES IN ALL GODLINESS AND HOLINESS. THIS IS GOOD, AND PLEASES GOD OUR SAVIOR, WHO WANTS ALL PEOPLE TO BE SAVED AND TO COME TO A KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH.


I TIMOTHY 2:1–4


Day Fourteen

VerseI TIMOTHY 2:1–2 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.


SCRIPTURE: I TIMOTHY 2:1–4

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Pray for the political leaders of our country, state, and region.CROSSROADS: Pray for our Kids Street Ministry... that every volunteer position would be filled and that our kids would have consistent role-models pouring into their lives.OUTREACH: Pray for Metro Toledo to be transformed and restored by Jesus.





SUNDAY, AUGUST 21

THEN JESUS WAS LED BY THE SPIRIT INTO THE

WILDERNESS TO BE TEMPTED BY THE DEVIL.

AFTER FASTING FORTY DAYS AND FORTY NIGHTS,

HE WAS HUNGRY. THE TEMPTER CAME TO HIM

AND SAID, “IF YOU ARE THE SON OF GOD, TELL

THESE STONES TO BECOME BREAD.”

JESUS ANSWERED, “IT IS WRITTEN: ‘MAN SHALL

NOT LIVE ON BREAD ALONE, BUT ON EVERY

WORD THAT COMES FROM THE MOUTH OF GOD.”


PHILIPPIANS 4:1–4

Day Fifteen

VersePHILIPPIANS 4:1 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by

the devil..

Extended ReadingSCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 4:1–4

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to feed you from his word as you fast.CROSSROADS: Pray for the Creative Arts Ministry at Crossroads... for people to powerfully experience Jesus during our worship gatherings.OUTREACH: Pray for Monroe, MI to be transformed and restored by Jesus.






MONDAY, AUGUST 22

SEE PG 11 FOR MORE INFO

NOW IN THE CHURCH AT ANTIOCH THERE WERE

PROPHETS AND TEACHERS: BARNABAS, SIMEON

CALLED NIGER, LUCIUS OF CYRENE, MANAEN

(WHO HAD BEEN BROUGHT UP WITH HEROD

THE TETRARCH) AND SAUL. WHILE THEY WERE

WORSHIPING THE LORD AND FASTING, THE

HOLY SPIRIT SAID, “SET APART FOR ME

BARNABAS AND SAUL FOR THE WORK TO

WHICH I HAVE CALLED THEM.” SO AFTER THEY

HAD FASTED AND PRAYED, THEY PLACED THEIR

HANDS ON THEM AND SENT THEM OFF.


ACTS 13:1–3


Day Sixteen

VerseACTS 13:2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”


SCRIPTURE: ACTS 13:1–3

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to send you into someone’s life today.CROSSROADS: Pray for our Stephen’s Ministry Team, as they care and minister to Crossroads.OUTREACH: Pray for Covered International, a local non-profit that is fighting for women and children who are overcoming domestic violence, sexual exploitation, and trafficking.





TUESDAY, AUGUST 23

“WHEN YOU FAST, DO NOT LOOK SOMBER AS THE HYPOCRITES DO, FOR THEY DISFIGURE THEIR FACES TO SHOW OTHERS THEY ARE FASTING. TRULY I TELL YOU, THEY HAVE RECEIVED THEIR REWARD IN FULL. BUT WHEN YOU FAST, PUT OIL ON YOUR HEAD AND WASH YOUR FACE, SO THAT IT WILL NOT BE OBVIOUS TO OTHERS THAT YOU ARE FASTING, BUT ONLY TO YOUR FATHER, WHO IS UNSEEN; AND YOUR FATHER, WHO SEES WHAT IS DONE IN SECRET, WILL REWARD YOU.


PHILIPPIANS 6:16–18

Day Seventeen

VerseMATTHEW 6:18 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you...


SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 6:16–18

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to help you be cheerful as you fast.CROSSROADS: Pray for Crossroads’ guests, that they may feel the love of Christ here.OUTREACH: Pray for our outreach event – Trunk or Treat – that all who attend would know we are for them on October 27th.







THE WORDS OF NEHEMIAH SON OF HAKALIAH:

IN THE MONTH OF KISLEV IN THE TWENTIETH YEAR, WHILE I WAS IN THE CITADEL OF SUSA, 2 HANANI, ONE OF MY BROTHERS, CAME FROM JUDAH WITH SOME OTHER MEN, AND I QUESTIONED THEM ABOUT THE JEWISH REMNANT THAT HAD SURVIVED THE EXILE, AND ALSO ABOUT JERUSALEM.

THEY SAID TO ME, “THOSE WHO SURVIVED THE EXILE AND ARE BACK IN THE PROVINCE ARE IN GREAT TROUBLE AND DISGRACE. THE WALL OF JERUSALEM IS BROKEN DOWN, AND ITS GATES HAVE BEEN BURNED WITH FIRE.”

WHEN I HEARD THESE THINGS, I SAT DOWN AND WEPT. FOR SOME DAYS I MOURNED AND FASTED AND PRAYED BEFORE THE GOD OF HEAVEN. THEN I SAID:

“LORD, THE GOD OF HEAVEN, THE GREAT AND AWESOME GOD, WHO KEEPS HIS COVENANT OF LOVE WITH THOSE WHO LOVE HIM AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS, LET YOUR EAR BE ATTENTIVE AND YOUR EYES OPEN TO HEAR THE PRAYER YOUR SERVANT IS PRAYING BEFORE YOU DAY AND NIGHT FOR YOUR SERVANTS, THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL. I CONFESS THE SINS WE ISRAELITES, INCLUDING MYSELF AND MY FATHER’S FAMILY, HAVE COMMITTED AGAINST YOU. WE HAVE ACTED VERY WICKEDLY TOWARD YOU. WE HAVE NOT OBEYED THE COMMANDS, DECREES AND LAWS YOU GAVE YOUR SERVANT MOSES.

“REMEMBER THE INSTRUCTION YOU GAVE YOUR SERVANT MOSES, SAYING, ‘IF YOU ARE UNFAITHFUL, I WILL SCATTER YOU AMONG THE NATIONS, BUT IF YOU RETURN TO ME AND OBEY MY COMMANDS, THEN EVEN IF YOUR EXILED PEOPLE ARE AT THE FARTHEST HORIZON, I WILL GATHER THEM FROM THERE AND BRING THEM TO THE PLACE I HAVE CHOSEN AS A DWELLING FOR MY NAME.’

“HEY ARE YOUR SERVANTS AND YOUR PEOPLE, WHOM YOU REDEEMED BY YOUR GREAT STRENGTH AND YOUR MIGHTY HAND.


NEHEMIAH 1:1–10


Day Eighteen

VerseNEHEMIAH 1:4 When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.


SCRIPTURE: NEHEMIAH 1:1–10

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to give you the passion of Nehemiah as you fast.CROSSROADS: Pray that the people of Crossroads would engage in outrageous generosity.OUTREACH: Pray that our outreach event – Fall Food Drop – which will provide Thanksgiving meals to hundreds of people through our Ottawa Lake and Dundee Sites on November 20th.





THURSDAY, AUGUST 25

THEN THE WORD OF THE LORD CAME TO JONAH A SECOND TIME: “GO TO THE GREAT CITY OF NINEVEH AND PROCLAIM TO IT THE MESSAGE I GIVE YOU.”

JONAH OBEYED THE WORD OF THE LORD AND WENT TO NINEVEH. NOW NINEVEH WAS A VERY LARGE CITY; IT TOOK THREE DAYS TO GO THROUGH IT. JONAH BEGAN BY GOING A DAY’S JOURNEY INTO THE CITY, PROCLAIMING, “FORTY MORE DAYS AND NINEVEH WILL BE OVERTHROWN.” THE NINEVITES BELIEVED GOD. A FAST WAS PROCLAIMED, AND ALL OF THEM, FROM THE GREATEST TO THE LEAST, PUT ON SACKCLOTH.

WHEN JONAH’S WARNING REACHED THE KING OF NINEVEH, HE ROSE FROM HIS THRONE, TOOK OFF HIS ROYAL ROBES, COVERED HIMSELF WITH SACKCLOTH AND SAT DOWN IN THE DUST. THIS IS THE PROCLAMATION HE ISSUED IN NINEVEH:

“BY THE DECREE OF THE KING AND HIS NOBLES:

DO NOT LET PEOPLE OR ANIMALS, HERDS OR FLOCKS, TASTE ANYTHING; DO NOT LET THEM EAT OR DRINK. BUT LET PEOPLE AND ANIMALS BE COVERED WITH SACKCLOTH. LET EVERYONE CALL URGENTLY ON GOD. LET THEM GIVE UP THEIR EVIL WAYS AND THEIR VIOLENCE. WHO KNOWS? GOD MAY YET RELENT AND WITH COMPASSION TURN FROM HIS FIERCE ANGER SO THAT WE WILL NOT PERISH.”

WHEN GOD SAW WHAT THEY DID AND HOW THEY TURNED FROM THEIR EVIL WAYS, HE RELENTED AND DID NOT BRING ON THEM THE DESTRUCTION HE HAD THREATENED.


JONAH 3:1–10

Day Nineteen

VerseJONAH 3:5 The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.


SCRIPTURE: JONAH 3:1–10

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to provide a miracle for you as you fast.CROSSROADS: Pray for this year’s Heart of Christmas offering. OUTREACH: Pray for Crossroads’ outreach event – Angel Tree – as we provide for families locally through Monroe County ISD gifts and essential needs for Christmas.






FRIDAY, AUGUST 26

THERE, BY THE AHAVA CANAL, I PROCLAIMED A FAST, SO THAT WE MIGHT HUMBLE OURSELVES BEFORE OUR GOD AND ASK HIM FOR A SAFE JOURNEY FOR US AND OUR CHILDREN, WITH ALL OUR POSSESSIONS. I WAS ASHAMED TO ASK THE KING FOR SOLDIERS AND HORSEMEN TO PROTECT US FROM ENEMIES ON THE ROAD, BECAUSE WE HAD TOLD THE KING, “THE GRACIOUS HAND OF OUR GOD IS ON EVERYONE WHO LOOKS TO HIM, BUT HIS GREAT ANGER IS AGAINST ALL WHO FORSAKE HIM.” SO WE FASTED AND PETITIONED OUR GOD ABOUT THIS, AND HE ANSWERED OUR PRAYER.


EZRA 8:21–23


Day Twenty

VerseEZRA 8:23 So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer.


SCRIPTURE: EZRA 8:2I–23

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask God to answer your prayer as you fast.CROSSROADS: Pray for Crossroads’ #ForYou Action Team, that this team would grow, people with all skills, and that they would have opportunities to help many people in need.OUTREACH: Pray that God will keep your heart and mind open so that you will seek others to connect with outside the four walls of the church; those who are far from Him.





SATURDAY, AUGUST 27

“EVEN NOW,” DECLARES THE LORD, “RETURN TO ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART,WITH FASTING AND WEEPING AND MOURNING.”

REND YOUR HEARTAND NOT YOUR GARMENTS.RETURN TO THE LORD YOUR GOD,FOR HE IS GRACIOUS AND COMPASSIONATE,SLOW TO ANGER AND ABOUNDING IN LOVE,AND HE RELENTS FROM SENDING CALAMITY.WHO KNOWS? HE MAY TURN AND RELENTAND LEAVE BEHIND A BLESSING—GRAIN OFFERINGS AND DRINK OFFERINGSFOR THE LORD YOUR GOD.

BLOW THE TRUMPET IN ZION,DECLARE A HOLY FAST,CALL A SACRED ASSEMBLY.GATHER THE PEOPLE,CONSECRATE THE ASSEMBLY;BRING TOGETHER THE ELDERS,GATHER THE CHILDREN,THOSE NURSING AT THE BREAST.LET THE BRIDEGROOM LEAVE HIS ROOMAND THE BRIDE HER CHAMBER.LET THE PRIESTS, WHO MINISTER BEFORE THE LORD,WEEP BETWEEN THE PORTICO AND THE ALTAR.LET THEM SAY, “SPARE YOUR PEOPLE, LORD.DO NOT MAKE YOUR INHERITANCE AN OBJECT OF SCORN,A BYWORD AMONG THE NATIONS.WHY SHOULD THEY SAY AMONG THE PEOPLES,‘WHERE IS THEIR GOD?’”


JOEL 2:12–17


Day Twenty One

VerseJOEL 2:13 Rend your heart / and not your garments. / Return to the Lord your God, / for he is gracious and compassionate, / slow to anger and abounding in love, / and he relents from sending calamity.

Extended ReadingSCRIPTURE: JOEL 2:12-17

OBSERVATION:

APPLICATION:

PRAYER:

PrayersSELF: Ask god to send a revival to the United States as you fast.CROSSROADS: Pray for the succession of our Lead Pastoral role here at Crossroads. Pray for Crossroads staff.OUTREACH: Pray that we never become content with our outreach mission but continuously strive to do better.

SEE PG 11 FOR MORE INFO





SUNDAY, AUGUST 28


Notes


Notes

Documents

*5 S4 1 & 3 4 0