BILLINGS CHURCH OF CHRIST CONGREGATIONAL PRAYERS MARCH 2026
BILLINGS CHURCH of CHRIST MISSION STATEMENT: Bringing glory to God by encouraging individuals to develop and mature in the faith, by cultivating a one-another fellowship and by striving to be an outward blessing to others.
WEEK FOUR
Sunday, March 22, 2026
CHANGE definition (verb): Make something or someone different; alter; modify.
CHANGE definition (noun): The act or process of becoming different.
Several weeks ago, a friend asked that the prayers we pray together as a congregation in March address some of the overwhelming changes in our congregation. In acquiescence to this request, please be aware there is plenty of evidence historically that not all overwhelming change is necessarily bad. In fact, some overwhelming change is absolutely beneficial.
Tenth and Alderson Billings Church of Christ has withstood, entertained, invested in, stumbled from, thrived from, grieved in, rejoiced in, hit two ends of the spectrum in what is an inevitability: CHANGE.
People have moved, passed, married, been born, studied, come to realizations, fallen, been picked up, all sorts of situations.
CHANGE, in the realm of humans and the current universal setting, occurs everywhere, every when, every what, and every who. Collectively, the changes on earth that have occurred during and since Covid have taken enormous toll on the peoples of this planet. This is to say, we are not alone in this process called CHANGE.
Righteous Father, we can boldly face CHANGE because of one fact. You do not CHANGE. We are entirely grateful.
In Christ. Amen
For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed. Malachi 3:6
Monday, March 23, 2026
CHANGE: Replace something/someone with something/someone else/exchange
For when there is a change in the priesthood, there is necessarily a change in the law as well. Hebrews: 7:12
Holy God, we stand before You on this side of the royal priesthood. This change from Old Covenantal dictates to the conclusionary work of Christ in the New Covenantal promises gives us so much hope. Witness the hope of young parents who have claimed Your promises by inviting new lives into our midst. We ask for each of these children to claim their promises from You as their parents (and those whom they allow to be with their children) teach them Who You are.
Help us face the CHANGES in lockstep with You, now and forever.
In Jesus.
Amen
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
CHANGE of mind
This Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, by you (men of Israel) was crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men…..Acts 2:23
Each time we deny You, Father, is an act of defiance…not so different from any other sin by any other person ever committed. As we consider how to help others, may we continually monitor our own thoughts and actions.
In His Name.
Amen
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
CHANGE of heart
Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you (men of Israel) crucified. Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers what shall we do?” Acts 2:36, 37
Father, may we remember this is not a one time, one day, one moment decision. It is for always and forever, and how we obey You in Your direction for our pursuits is essential.
How Jesus did this perfectly, is still a mystery.
Help us Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, Holy God. Amen
Thursday, March 26, 2026
CHANGE: Turn or convert something or someone from one state to another
Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized all of you in the Name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38
New believers added to this congregation are filled with wonder, they, even they, are now children of You Father. It is the same wonder each of us has felt. Even I am given the privilege of becoming/being Your child.
Despite wars, famines, upheavals, disputes, imperfections of self, we are given the Purest Gift of Salvation, Lord Jesus, thank you. Amen
Friday, March 27, 2026
CHANGE: Put on different clothes, awareness
“For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord calls to Himself.” Acts 2: 39-40
As we come to share with others Your story, Holy God, help us remember this promise is for all. Show us to whom You are directing our efforts. Change us inside and out of any impure thoughts, expressions, actions.
Lead us.
Help us always ask, “What’s next? Who is next? Where is next?
In Christ,
Amen
Saturday, March 28, 2026
CHANGE residence: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Ps 23:6
Old unhelpful habits, misinformation, and prejudices have to go.
Please help us clean house, Father.
In the perfect Name of Jesus. Amen
Sunday, March 29, 2026
He who doesn’t CHANGE
For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed. Malachi 3:6
Holy God,
We are grateful You are the same yesterday, today, and forever.
This stability allows us to try to be obedient to Your command of “Do not be afraid.”
CHANGE often scares people. Thank You for the Book, O God.
In Jesus. Amen
Fear not little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Lk 12:32
Monday, March 30, 2026
He who doesn’t CHANGE
The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind, “You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” Psalm 110:4 and Hebrews 7:17
This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant. Hebrews 7:22
Thank You, Father, for Your unchanging Ways and for Your Son, our Redeemer, Who guarantees this promise to us, and to all believers.
Help us fix our eyes on You, Your Son, and be directed by Your Holy Spirit.
Amen
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
CHANGE around us not in us.
CHANGE: The act of becoming different; “The wind of change is blowing through this (African) continent” (in which the UK was supporting African independence, decolonization, and particularly ending support to the Apartheid regime).
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Harold Macmillan in a speech to the South African Parliament, 02-03-1960, signaled a major shift of the British Empire involvement in Africa was coming to an end. The relationship between the two countries was changing and became known as “the wind of change is blowing.”
Righteous Father,
Help us remember the change surrounding us on all sides in this physical world is not permanent. Some problems are too onerous to even speak out loud. Nations come and go. Troubles (which may be horrendous) will come and go.
Hearts can be broken. The deceiver can cause great havoc. And, yes, the consequences and feelings about all of the evil still at work in this world may be overwhelming.
Please don’t let us go. Please help us fix our eyes on Jesus. Please help us listen to Holy Spirit.
Please help us acknowledge, in love and adoration that Your perfect Ways are exacting, difficult, but glorious.
Lead us home to You, Father.
Lead us to whomever You choose along the way. Open their eyes, their hearts, their wills to You.
Through Your Priceless Precious Son Who claims us.
Amen
WEEK THREE— “SEEKING” in the Words of Jesus
Definition: seeking, to seek. (Biblical): inquire, investigate, or search diligently for God or wisdom; to crave, request, or seek to find or take hold of something. Wholehearted pursuit.
Sunday, March 15, 2026
So, I say to you, “Ask, and it will be given to you.” Luke 11: 9a
One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the House of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in His temple. Psalm 27:4
Holy God,
Sometimes it's difficult to pray about things on our minds since the words of the Bible seem so remote from the lives we lead in 2026 USA. Similar to generations before us, we live in a secular world of confusion, chaos, and violence. From You, Father, we learn how to pray about many things, some of which are ethereal, others quite concrete. Jesus told His disciples, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” MK 16
Our congregation is grappling with the “How to” accomplish this? Our own nation has provided some information to add to our search as seen in the article below.
So, in taking stock of the environment, I’ve noticed an uncommon feeling of irritability intermittently pervading my transit around the Billings area temporarily displacing my usual cheerful outlook. Perplexed, I've wondered if the near misses from other drivers is just my experience or is it endemic to the Billings population.
Upon investigation, an article from Consumer Affairs Automotive has provided some answers…..but brings up more questions. Because increasing numbers of teens, adults, families, all ages have been injured and/or died from car crashes, the overwhelming question is what is behind the change? An article entitled Worst Drivers in America in www.consumeraffairs.com, August 14, 2025, noted “the National Highway Traffic Safety administration (NHTSA) estimated in 2024, 39,345 people died in traffic crashes in the United States.” The NHTSA Consumer Affairs Research Team analyzed where these fatal crashes are occurring the most and why. For example, Waterbury, Connecticut, has the highest rate of DUI- related traffic fatalities at over 4 times the national rate.
Billings, Montana, ranks 8th worst city overall driving in the entire nation “because of high rates of fatal crashes involving alcohol and speeding. Billings has the ninth highest rate of deaths related to driving under the influence, the fifth highest rate of traffic fatalities involving positive BAC readings and the third highest rate of fatalities involving speeding. The 2025 analysis found that the state of Montana has the worst teenage drivers compared to the other states.”
“Montana is the only state that hasn't yet banned texting while driving.”
We know You want only goodness for Your creation. It seems both physical and spiritual lives are being lost needlessly here in our home state from bad driving behavior.
Is this a place You want us to help, Father?
In Jesus’ Name. Amen
Monday, March 16, 2026
“Search, and you will find.” Luke 11: 9b
Seek the LORD while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. Isaiah 55: 6
Righteous Father,
What’s behind these statistics of breaking the law (DUI, speeding, etc.)? Many stimuli contribute to acting out, feelings of superiority, retribution, violence, intended harm, and nonchalance. Some fundamental awareness of “Other” seems to have been lost in many areas of American life, but one that affects most of us on nearly a daily basis is riding passage in a motor vehicle.
What has happened? What is the basis for diminished care of “Other” that has increasingly become evident on our city streets?
Father, as we ask the question of what has happened to “awareness of Other,” is there a place we need to quit pointing outward but take a look inward? Are there ways You want us to help “Other” by including “Other” in our collective responsibility? Isn’t it the same if someone is hungry, unsheltered, cold, emotionally or spiritually lost? Isn’t acting out simply a symptom of deeper disenfranchisement?
This doesn’t seem to be just a civic problem.
Help us, Father, we pray in Christ. Amen
A Story of “Other”
Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side, but a Samaritan (“Other”), as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’
Jesus said to the “lawyer who sought to put Jesus to the test while justifying himself”: “Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?”
The lawyer:’ The one who showed him mercy.”
And Jesus said to him: “You go and do likewise.”
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
“Knock, and the door will be opened for you.” Luke 11: 9c
A gift opens doors; it gives access to the great. Proverbs 18:16 NRSVUE
Heavenly Father,
What makes a person drink ethanol or use mood altering drugs and then drive? Is there a way for us to help parent teens collectively, moving outside of ourselves? Is loneliness or isolation so intense that people act out into violence? And do some simply give up on life because there is no joy or hope in their existence?
Lord Jesus, we remember the ten lepers who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When You saw them, You told them to “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” As they went, they were cleansed. Then one of them turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell at Your feet, giving You thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then You answered. “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And You said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”
Lord Jesus, You have always continued to work when only 10% responded. And at the cross, when You were accompanied by only a few people, You completed the Work.
Life circumstances lead us to do some crazy things, Father. But one of these ten was brought to faith. Maybe one who is driving poorly because of life circumstances can find faith in You. But for Your grace and someone You sent to lead us to You, we could be right there alongside other dangerous drivers.
Perhaps You want us to look at these people in a different way, an empathetic way. If someone is physically hungry, we are commanded to help to provide food. If someone is lost and unaware of what they potentially are doing to themselves and others because of ethical, moral, spiritual, familial bankruptcy, are we not supposed to help?
Whatever You want us to do, please guide us there, Father.
In the Way of Jesus and in the search of “Other.”
Amen
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
“For Everyone who asks receives.” Luke 11: 10a
You do not have, because you do not ask. James 4: 2c
“The Pandemic was very bad for traffic safety.” Institute for Highway Safety. Construction, diminished habits of wearing seatbelts, lack of sobriety, poorly constructed roadways, failing infrastructure, layoffs of law enforcement officers, and diminished respect for lawful passage by drivers, gang traffic, anger, isolation, increased domestic violence, etc. All of this has affected so many.
Top ten cities in the United States with the most dangerous drivers:
- Memphis, Tennessee (both drivers and pedestrians killed due to “bad behavior”)
- Knoxville, Tennessee
- Waterbury, Connecticut
- Aurora, Colorado
- Tucson, Arizona
- Kansas City, Missouri
- San Bernardino, California
- Billings, Montana
- Miami Gardens, Florida
- Charleston, South Carolina
Father, in Medicine we work toward prevention of disease. Will You show us the enormity of how these behaviors in driving are actually the exhibition of distance from You. This paralyzing distance from You allows loss of awareness of “Other” to creep into our thoughts. This downward spiral is so dangerous. Show us how we can help.
Deadly driving is just a symptom of distance from You, Father. And we live right in the middle of it.
Is there a pathway to help?
Thank You, Father. Amen
Other top problems in Billings as of March 2026, include:
1. Housing and economic stress
2. Crime and safety
3. High property taxes
4. Utility and billing issues
5. Infrastructure and weather
6. Wildfire risk
7. Bad behavior in driving
Thursday, March 19, 2026
“And everyone who searches finds.” Luke 11: 10b
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4: 8
Holy God,
There are thousands of avenues to search for peace. But only one avenue leads to You.
Your millennia of preparation for the Christ exhibits Your extreme patience and mercy.
You have repeatedly told us, “To go.”
Show us how to obey You. Please, Father.
Today, may we simply come sit with You, read Your Words, think about You, listen for You, listen to You, notice in others the image of You, meditate on Your Presence, and prepare ourselves to abide in what You have planned for this congregation to do.
It may be something none of us have considered. It may be something none of us feel prepared to do.
But we are not alone. You are here.
Praise Your Name, Father, You are here!
In Christ.
Amen
Friday, March 20, 2026
“And for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11: 10c
Father, teach us to help people learn how to knock on the door You promise will be opened. Remind us we also are commanded to knock on the door You will open.
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3: 20
And help us listen for Your voice while praying for others to learn how to listen for Your voice. We have been given the privilege of inviting You through the door. May we share that knowledge with others.
Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law? And He said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God
- With all your heart
- With all your soul
- With all your mind
This is the great and first commandment.
Send us to those who don’t yet love You because they don’t yet know You.
And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Matthew 22:36ff
Righteous Father,
It appears loving You is a verb and can be anywhere, anytime, any circumstance; all places, all times, all circumstances.
You know where You want to send us in the Billings area to provide witness to Your Name.
Help us keep our eyes open and listen to Your Spirit’s counsel.
We love You, Father.
In Christ. Amen
Saturday, March 21, 2026
“If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Luke 11:13
Righteous Father, standing in stunned silence, we acknowledge the most precious gifts ever given to humans: Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, and You!!!
And You give Holy Spirit to those who ask. Amazing. We are asking today.
You and Jesus have commanded us to, “GO.”
Therefore, we are praying today You will lead us to anyone who needs us:
Newborns, Kindergarteners, grade schoolers, teens, college age
Working adults, unemployed adults
Parents, Grandparents, Memory Care and nursing home adults
Hungry, homeless, wealthy, poor, poor in spirit, leaders, followers, lost, found
Healthy, medically challenged, mentally challenged
“Other”
Taste and see that the Lord is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! Ps 34: 8
What a tragedy if someone never has opportunity to take refuge in You.
Here we are. Send us….in love, in peace, in humility, in joy….
In Christ.
Amen
WEEK TWO—PROVERBS—WISDOM and GIVING
Sunday, March 8, 2026
Does not Wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice?
On the heights beside the way, at the crossroads she takes her stand.
At the entrance of the portals, she cries aloud:
“To you, O men, I call, and my cry is to the children of man.” Prov. 8:1-4
Wisdom: the quality of knowledge, experience, sound judgment.
Righteous Father, Your Son told us to give generously. Together we ask You for Wisdom in that pursuit.
You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. MT 5: 38-39
Oh, Father. I am not at all excited about giving in such extraordinary measures. There are those who have hurt me in ways that are unspeakable in some cases. I don't think I'm alone when I say this to You. And yet, this is not a request from You; this is a command. Even grudges/resentments must be addressed in each of us BEFORE we can give to others in peace. How do we know how to obey this command? How do we know if there is danger? Does it make any difference?
As a congregation, the Billings Church of Christ is seeking Your direction, Lord, in giving generously…. Are we really? ….Or are there some things that are hidden in us individually that need to be forgiven or given up first? Grudges? Past or present squabbles? Worse? Are there some things that are so egregious, we mistakenly ignore this command?
We hear Your Wisdom calling, Holy God. It is harder to obey it. Before we even think about giving, we ask You to establish Your Ways, you're exacting Ways in us. Prepare us, Father, for whatever it is You expect us to give. We need Your help. How did Jesus give even himself? Amen
Monday, March 9, 2026--WISDOM
“…Hear, for I (Wisdom) will speak noble things, and from my lips will come what is right, for my mouth will utter truth; Wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are righteous; There is nothing twisted or crooked in them. They are all straight to him who understands, and right to those who find knowledge. Take my instruction…”… “for Wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her.” Prov. 8: 5-11
Father, Your words of Wisdom and giving are so hard. Wisdom applies to every facet of our lives. Giving generously cannot escape Wisdom…cannot hide from Wisdom….cannot hide from You. Giving singly is difficult. Giving harmoniously and collectively is nearly impossible. Some agree with the plan. Some disagree with the plan. Some grumble about the plan. Some engage with the plan. Some ignore the congregational plan. Yet these powerful Proverbs are written to all of us.
And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him 2 miles. Give to the one who begs from you and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you. MT 5:40- 42
I, for one do not know what to do when I see somebody at a busy highway intersection with a sign that says, “I need food.” Or when someone needs work? Or a ride? Or a place to sleep? Are there discussions with one another needed to answer these questions? Giving assumes all sorts of interactions, and each of us individually faces decisions that affect this congregation.
We want to obey You, Father. Lead us together in Your Son’s Name. Amen
Tuesday, March 10, 2026--WISDOM
“I, Wisdom, dwell with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion. The fear of the Lord is hatred of evil... I have counsel and sound Wisdom; I have insight; I have strength... I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me…
Prov 8:12-18
Righteous Father, we are grateful Your Words are timeless. In sixth century, BC in Babylon, the newly captive teens Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah survived because of Wisdom You sent them in response to their constant prayers. They had daily lives to lead, and decisions to make even while in captivity. We, too, present ourselves corporately to You in our daily lives to fulfill Your desire for this congregation. The exiled teens were given Wisdom to proceed. We ask for the same powerful force as we seek the plans You have for this congregation, Father, God.
In Christ.
Amen
Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. MT 6: 1
In quiet disregard of the King’s command, the captive teens sought counsel from You. May we also seek counsel from You, Father, and expectantly wait upon Your answer. Because of Jesus, we are given opportunity to pray these prayers. Thank You. Amen
Wednesday, March 11, 2026—WISDOM and GIVING
The Lord possessed me (Wisdom) at the beginning of His work, the first of His acts of old. Ages ago I was set up at first, before the beginning of the earth. When there were no depths, I was brought forth, when there were no springs abounding with water. Before the mountains had been shaped, before the hills, I was brought forth, before He had made the earth with its fields or the first of the dust of the world. Prov 8: 19-26
Father, since Wisdom is so important to You, how much more should we pursue it. At first it seemed odd to study this Proverb about Wisdom when the goal for us is to ask You to lead us giving in outreach. But You used Wisdom in the entire gift of creation. You used Wisdom in Your gift of the Savior. You share with us Your Wisdom gift of Holy Spirit. And You give us a choice. Jesus came to seek and save the lost. LK 19:10. In all His Ways, He used Wisdom. We ask for Your Wisdom, Father, to know who, what, when, where, why, how, and so what’s next, exactly the Way You would orchestrate it. Help us choose Wisdom.
Thank You. In Christ. Amen
Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly I say to you, they have received their reward. MT 6:2
But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father Who sees in secret will reward you. MT 6:3-4
Thursday, March 12, 2026—WISDOM, FORGIVING, and GIVING
When He established the heavens, I (Wisdom) was there; when He drew a circle on the face of the deep, when He made firm the skies above, when He established the fountains of the deep, when He assigned to the sea its limit, so that the waters might not transgress His command, when He marked out the foundations of the earth, and I was beside Him, like a master Workman, and I was daily His delight, rejoicing before Him always, rejoicing in this inhabited world and delighting in the children of man.
Prov 8: 27-31
Father, Your Wisdom delighted in the children of man?!?
You called Your creation good, but on the day You created mankind, You said, “It is very good.” We know our ancient ancestors’ history. We know our current day personal history. Some of our history is not so great. But, because of Jesus’ blood, You still delight in Your children. Amazing. Amen.
And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father Who sees in secret will reward you. MT 6:5-6
Our prayers are part of our giving. Help us remember to pray unceasingly.
For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. MT 6:14-15
And we know we must forgive. That is part of our outreach. Reveal to us our hidden condescending judgments about others allowing us to thereby forgive them and ourselves. That is true gifting. Sharing without judgment of the circumstances in the lives of others is essential. We have no idea what difficulty people have experienced.
You tell us if we don’t forgive others their trespasses, neither will you forgive us our trespasses. Yikes! Some of these trespasses exist without our full knowledge of them. Please cleanse us from all feelings of superiority allowing us to serve anyone without condescension. We need help, Father. In Christ. Amen
Friday, March 13, 2026—WISDOM and FORGIVING
And now, O sons, listen to me (Wisdom): blessed are those who keep my ways. Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. Prov 8: 32-34
Father, thank you for what Paul wrote, “Christ (is) the power of God and the Wisdom of God.” 1 Cor 1:24. In Your Wisdom God the Father and God the Son, we are asking, we are listening, and we are requesting discernment by Holy Spirit to be led in the paths You choose for us this year 2026.
Help us not be critical, judgmental, nor argumentative. Help us work where You want us to work and forgive when we need to forgive.
Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Luke 6: 37
Still recovering from the devastating effects of Covid, the congregations across the country have either grown and recovered in many ways or have died a dwindling passing. Thank You, Father, our congregation has flourished in many ways.
There was a teenage girl who struggled but continued in faith during those dark years and has now led friends and family to persist in faith. She was watching at the gates and listening to Wisdom. She did not judge or condemn. Despite anguish, she persisted in prayer and faith. And You Father gave the increase. Please be with her always. Thank You for claiming her as Your own. Thank You for her family.
We celebrate Your Church Lord Jesus. We celebrate Your Wisdom Holy God. And we expectantly celebrate Your guidance Holy Spirit.
Amen
Saturday, March 14, 2026—WISDOM and GIVING
For whoever finds me (Wisdom) finds life and receives favor from the LORD.
But whoever fails to find me harms himself: all who hate me love death. Prov 8: 35-36
Give and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For the measure you use it will be measured back to you. Luke 6: 38
It had been a very long death-filled week for this intern in Medicine. Nothing she nor her professors did seemed to benefit the patients, all of whom were so very sick. Devastated, she went to the beach near the hospital on her day off. The ocean had a way of making things better.
Awakening to a noise nearby, she found a little boy sitting on a corner of her beach towel building a sandcastle. He happily shared the now-awake company of the intern, telling her stories about his architectural sand construction, his adventures in the ocean, his plans for when he grew up, and his joy of being alive. As he visited, he seemed to recognize the young woman as one of his own, though they had never met before. There was no hint of hesitancy on his part.
After a while, his mother called him to leave the beach with her. He obediently ran to her, but quickly changed his mind, breaking away from his mother’s hand to run back and tell his new friend he had to leave. He wanted the intern to know his intent was not to hurt her, but he had to obey his mother.
He had found Wisdom, and he shared Wisdom with such joy. He had given a major gift of encouragement to the intern.
May he receive favor from You Lord.
In Christ. Amen
WEEK ONE
Sunday, March 1, 2026
What: Help wanted. Prayer.
Prayer to Holy God in the Name of Lord Jesus
Listening/discerning the counseling of Holy Spirit
Requesting guidance/blessing; offering thanksgiving/Honor/Praise/Glory
Who: Our elders want you; all of you; all y’all.
Where: Wherever you are. Holy God, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit can hear you.
When: Month of March, daily, any time, day and night.
Why: For God’s Glory & direction in His command to seek/save the lost. LK 19/MT 28
Continuing to bring the good news of Jesus to this city and region.
How: Collectively, singly, expectantly, thankfully, faithfully. Praying in scripture, heart song, listening, adoration, hope, love, silence, loud noises, and in His mercy.
Paul requested from the saints at Colossae, “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ…” Col 4:2ff
Heavenly Father, collectively we come to You in prayer, not as a novel idea of our own but as the order of faithfulness You established from the beginning.
The ancients who long ago believed by faith in You understood “from whence their help came.” Psalm 121. For their (Abram/Sara, Noah, Joseph, Moses/Caleb/Joshua, Abigail, John the Baptist, Joseph/Mary, etc.) example, we praise Your Name.
And when Isaiah heard Your voice, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?”, he answered, “Here I am! Send me.” Heb 6:8
Here we are, Father. Send us, in Christ. Amen
Monday, March 2, 2026
Mission: to seek and save the lost.
Righteous Father, how long have Adam and Eve regretted their moment of fascination with the serpent, the ill-spoken twisted misrepresentation of Your Words, and
the delight to the eyes of the tree named knowledge of good and evil? Gen 2&3.
And what hideous enjoyment of this moment has the evil one reaped ever since in taking captive Your creation of which You had previously spoken, “It is very good.” Gen 1:31.
History changed that day. Ramifications of relationship with You changed that day. Distance from You, O God, occurred that day. Human choices and responsibilities changed that day.
But worst of all, disobedience to the Only God, the source of all Life and the singular Light, seemed to forever fracture the possibility of restoration. Gen 3:23,24.
But You never stopped loving Your creation. Praise Your Name, Father. You never stopped loving Your creation. “People started calling on Your Name.” Gen 4:26.
But the wickedness continued, and “it grieved You to Your heart.” Gen 6:6. How can we stand hearing this, Father? Their sin, our sin grieves You to Your heart. How long have we regretted our disobedient choices?
And those of us who have been given privilege to learn from Your very Word that restoration is possible need to reconsider how dark were the days before we came to You in faith. “And such were some of you.” 1Cor 6:11.
Holy God, we recognize there is a world full of people who have never yet heard the news of Your gift of the Messiah.
Here we are, Father. Send us.
In Christ. Amen
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 Salvation
There was a woman on the run escaping the tyranny of an abusive partner and seeking shelter, moving from state to state trying to make enough money as a clerk at a local business to travel to another state farther away from her perpetrator.
She only distantly remembered safety, security, hope. Without knowing about the other, two of her customers individually shared their hope in Christ. Seeds. And you know Who gave the increase.
So, neither he who plants not he who waters is anything, but only God Who gives the growth. He who plants and he who waters are one…. For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building. 1 Cor 3:7-9.
Now, several years later, she has heard the Gospel of Christ, is saved physically and spiritually, joyously sharing her story, and is crediting Holy God for sending two distinct people to tell her about the Way to God.
You already know the scriptures and the possibility of the results of faith. But she didn’t. She didn’t know until someone told her in love about the greatest Gift of all.
Righteous Father, thank You for connecting this woman to someone who could tell her about the Truth. “Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6.
Please help us keep our eyes open, unafraid, and listening for any opportunity to share the most important News of the Gospel to anyone who will listen.
Thank you, our Father God. In Christ. Amen
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 Gratitude
Righteous Father,
This past year You have given this congregation untold numbers of blessings: New babies, safe deliveries, new members. Childhood, teen, and adult regular Bible classes, all headed by capable teachers.
New adult classes and dinners for children through Love, Inc. by the hands of many faithful volunteers. Opportunities to offer Christ to YWCA participants.
Retention of most of our members; retention of one elder in addition to gaining three new elders, all of whom are inspiring this month of prayer seeking Your direction for the work You want us to pursue.
A wonderful new adventure for one of our elders and his wife and mother-in-law along with their four generational families (we honor your work here, your departure, your work there, and send you with love, hope, and joy)…..and expectation to see all of you in the future.
Weekly Sunday AM, PM, and Wednesday evening exceptional messages from our preacher along with his many counseling, visitation, and representation efforts which are augmented by the excellent IT and Administrative Assistants and by his personal family group who collectively minister to scores of people.
Small group leaders and representatives open their homes with hospitality for many functions including ad hoc study groups for education, counseling, fellowship, and prayer. You have given opportunities for many of our members to give lessons locally, statewide, and nationally. Father, You have provided protection for members who have experienced loss of any kind and led members to provide prayer chains, food trains, shower chains. We have had one another to grieve losses and support those in physical decline. You have provided the congregation housing capability for some in need and some in transition. You have not left us alone or isolated. Thank You, Father.
We recall some of what Luke wrote about Paul. “And Paul went in as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days, he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead, and saying, ‘This Jesus, whom I proclaim to you, is the Christ. And some of them were persuaded…But the Jews were jealous…they dragged Jason and some of the brothers before the city authorities, shouting, ‘These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also, and Jason has received them…’”
Father, do You want us to turn the world upside down? We thank You for what You are doing in our congregation. We ask You what is next.
It is Your work, Your will, Your Way. Will you show us? In anticipation, we thank You, in the Name of our Savior. Amen
Thursday, March 5, 2026 From a Child’s Perspective
There was a nine-year-old girl disturbed because her classmates didn’t know about Jesus. In the manner she had learned from her mother, she taught them.
Inviting them all to come play church during recess at school, the Lord used her work to teach them about His saving Grace, the Lord Jesus.
Therefore, be imitators of God as beloved children. Eph 5:1.
Holy God, You have given us all a task just as this child was given. Will You open our eyes to the work You have planned and help us be faithful as was this little girl.
Praising You for her and her students. In Jesus’ Name. Amen
Friday, March 6, 2026 From a Child’s Perspective
Ethan was always last in line; always.
Sometimes this meant there were no more treats at the kindergarten celebrations when it was time to serve the last in line. But this did not change his mind about his place in line.
He was a popular member of his class and often a team captain who routinely first chose the child who was otherwise lastly chosen. Such a big decision for such a little boy.
He had learned about Jesus healing two blind men, who cried out, “Lord have mercy on us, Son of David!” The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be silent, but they cried out even more,
“Lord have mercy on us Son of David…” And stopping, Jesus called them and said, “What do you want me to do for you?” They said, “Lord let our eyes be opened.”
And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed Him. MT 20:29ff
Ethan knew his place in line………………right behind the Lord Jesus.
Thank You, Father, for the millions of avenues You share Your mercy and love. May we follow Your lessons given to us from the examples of the faithful.
And will You bless this child who knows You so well through the eyes of Jesus. Amen
Saturday, March 7, 2026
The world is a mess. Time is short.
So what else is new? The world has been a mess since the fall of mankind in its relationship to our Holy God. Nothing can be right if relationship with Jesus, YHWH, and Holy Spirit are not firmly established in a person's life.
Even then, we acknowledge the evil one tries to avert our eyes from the truth and entice us to instead study the mysterious lure of deceit, hypocrisy, laziness, adding too many things to our schedules, and mistakenly thinking we have all the time in the world to correct whatever is troubling us.
Isaiah 40: “Comfort, comfort my people,” says your God. “Speak tenderly to Jerusalem and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins.”
A voice of one calling: “In the desert prepare the way for the Lord, make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain.
And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all mankind together will see it for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”
A voice says, “Cry out.” And I said, “What shall I cry?”
“All grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our Lord God stands forever.”
Father, lest we forget for Whom we labor, will You help us keep in mind Your patience in administering justice; Your mercy despite our fallen nature; and Your love but absolute command for believing the one Way to forgiveness.
Jesus told us, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and no one can come to the Father but by me.” John 14:6
Thank you, Father, for all who believe You, and believe Your Son is the only Way to You. There are so many who do not yet know You. Please, God, show us how to help change this. Send us. Here we are, Father. Send us.
In the Name of Jesus, we pray. Amen