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PRAYER CHANGES THINGS
INTRODUCTION
It is 200 years since the birth of George Müller. The work of the Foundation has spanned three centuries. There has been so much change in society over these years, but the Foundation stands firm as a testimony to the unchanging love and faithfulness of God, in answer to prayer. The work continues to reach out, in Christian care and in partnership with others, to some of the most vulnerable in society. The challenge has been to continually develop the ministry to meet the changing needs of society, while holding to the distinctive core values of faith, care and evangelism. It has been very exciting to see the significant growth in the Müller Church Partnerships and the real influence this is having on local communities.
The partnerships with local churches and ministries draws upon the expertise, resources and experience of the Foundation to enable outreach and care in the community, especially among children and families with spiritual and social needs. The local church is enabled to help meet some of these needs and to bring wholeness and a sense of belonging. The partnership often begins by assessing a church’s readiness and effectiveness to reach its community and assists in shaping an appropriate and effective vision for community care work and evangelism, especially with needy children and families. It has been remarkable to see the Foundation offering advice, support, supervision, mentoring, training and networking to a continually increasing number of local churches and to have such an excellent team involved in this.
CARE OF THE ELDERLY
This has been a year of further growth for the Müller Homes for the Elderly, with even more to come in the next year, as the need for care of the elderly increases. Tilsley House and Tranquil House are well known for the excellence and warmth of their care. Applications are welcomed from any who are seeking elderly residential or sheltered accommodation in an atmosphere of Christian love and care. Many people have remarked on the wonderful sense of God’s presence and peace, which they have felt there. We thank God for the faithful and tireless service of all the staff.
CARE IN MISSION AT HOME AND ABROAD
The Scriptural Knowledge Institution (SKI) is the oldest of the Trusts. It has spanned three centuries and is involved today, in the care of more orphans of the world than in the days of George Müller. AIDS and wars have left more orphans today in the world than ever in history. SKI through prayer and channelling of support helps those, who are serving in Christian work in some of the most needy parts of the world.
The following are extracts from some of the letters that go out around the world from the Foundation each month. They include scriptures which have been significant in my own daily devotions that month and I share them, praying that they may be of encouragement to others.
MARCH
“I looked for a man among them who would ... stand beforemein the gap on behalf of the land...”
Ezekiel 22 v 30
There is a desperate need for intercessors and advocates, who will stand in the gap, on behalf of
those in need around us. God is looking for such praying people today.
APRIL
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit’s fire”
1 Thessalonians 5 v 16-19
Here is an amazing description of what God’s will is for all of our lives. Whatever circumstances we face and whatever challenges come ourway, there is always a source of joy in Christ Jesus, as with thankful hearts. We continually look to Him in prayer, keeping the fire of His Spirit burning within.
MAY
Jesus said “It is finished”
As we consider the passion of the Christ, we realise this cry of Jesus from the cross was not a cry of despair but a moment of completion, as He bore our sins in His body. So sufficient was His sacrifice, that by grace, through faith, we are saved, to live in the power of His Spirit.
JULY
“After the earth quake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.”
1 Kings 19 v 12
After seeing the fire fall dramatically from heaven on Mount Carmel, it would be easy to imagine that this was the way God would reveal Himself again. But this time God was in the gentle whisper. Don’t be surprised, if today, God reveals Himself in agentle quiet way, as well as in the earthquake and fire.
“Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”
In a world of heartache and broken relationships, God promises never to leave us or forsake us. The Müller Church Partnerships are an expression of God’s love, as we work together with local
churches to enable them to reach out in care for their communities, especially children, young
people and families, with physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs.
“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.”
This scripture is a refreshing reminder of the renewing and sustaining power of praise
throughout our lives. It begins by declaring, “It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High...” and continues to give some very practical encouragement, “to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night ...” Try it each day and you may find it can bring fruitfulness and freshness, even into old age.
OCTOBER
“In faithfulness He will bring forth justice”
Isaiah 42 v 3
God’s faithfulness is what sustains our life and work. It is so often evident in His provision,
protection and His unfolding purposes, but it is also seen in His heart for justice in a broken world.
FEBRUARY
“The Lord … has filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of
crafts - to make artistic designs ...”
Exodus 35 v 31
The Lord is the source of true creativity. He not only creates directly but He also fills us with His Spirit, so that we can give expression to His creativity in art and craft. May we enrich the world around us, as we express God’s creativity in the fullness of His Spirit today.
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