December 23, 2018  – FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—comes to an end today.

 

Our prayer focus for this final day of FAST FORWARD is to be content in the Lord's will, and Colossians 1:9-12 offers the apostle Paul's powerful prayer that you can pray for others and yourself:

 

"And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light."

 

As the great theologian Charles Haddon Spurgeon reminds us, the good Lord know what is best for His children.

 

"Remember this, had any other condition been better for you than the one in which you are, divine love would have put you there," Spurgeon said. "You are placed by God in the most suitable circumstances. Be content with what you have since the Lord has ordered all things for your good."

 

Prayer Focus Day 49: BE CONTENT IN THE LORD

Romans 8:28: "And we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." 

 

Philippians 4:11-13: "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me."

 

Pray, as Paul did, to be “filled with the knowledge of His will.” Pray until you know it clearly. Knowing His will brings joy and direction to our life, and becomes a focus for our actions.

 

 

DAY 48

 

December 22, 2018  – As we near the end of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—remember to pray with confidence.

 

Prayer Focus Day 48: PRAY WITH CONFIDENCE

Luke 1:37: "For nothing will be impossible with God."

 

God has promised to hear your prayer—and goodness is His nature. Pray large.

 

 

DAY 47

 

December 21, 2018  – On day 47 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—we encourage you to find a quiet place to pray.

 

Return to that place each day. Or go for a walk if you find it difficult to be alone.

 

Prayer Focus Day 47: SOLITUDE WITH THE LORD

Matthew 6:6 "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."

 

Being alone with God reminds us of our personal relationship with Him. Find a quiet place to pray.

 

 

DAY 46

 

December 20, 2018  – Day 46 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 46: STOP HOLDING COURT

Romans 14:13: Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.

 

Allow God to judge. Instead, take away the stones.

 

 

DAY 45

 

December 19, 2018  – Day 45 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 45: FORGIVENESS

Matthew 6:14: For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

 

Isaiah 59:2: ... but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.

 

Don't let bitterness or unforgiveness block your channel to Almighty God.

 

 

DAY 44

 

December 18, 2018  – Day 44 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 44: HELP IS ON THE WAY

Hebrews 1:14: Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?

 

Discern the nearness of angels and rejoice in God’s wonderful protection.

 

 

DAY 43

 

December 17, 2018  – Day 43, and the final week, of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 43: FIND A PRAYER PARTNER

Galatians 5:13: You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.

 

Find someone who will be honest with you, holding you accountable in times of alluring, ungodly choices, walking with you toward the real freedom.

 

 

DAY 42

 

December 16, 2018  – As we move into day 42 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—consider this message from Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible:

 

“In the tabernacle and in the temple there was a manifestation of the character of God not seen elsewhere. The whole worship was adapted to set forth his greatness, his glory and his grace.”

 

Prayer Focus Day 42: OUR AMAZING GOD

Psalm 27:4: 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.

 

Spend time today, contemplating the loveliness of the perfection of a holy God.

 

 

DAY 41

 

December 15, 2018  – Day 41 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 41: PREPARE  YOUR HEART

Psalm 100:2: Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.

 

The Lord desires fellowship with you. What better time than when you come into His presence with joy in your heart.

 

 

DAY 40

 

December 14, 2018  – Day 40 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 40: THE BRIDEGROOM IS GONE

Matthew 9:14-5: Then John's disciples came and asked him, "How is it that we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?" Jesus answered, "How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.

 

It was, in the marriage culture of Jesus' time, celebration time with the bridegroom. Since our bridegroom has gone to the right hand of the Father, we should carry out our preparation activities until He comes again.

 

 

DAY 39

 

December 13, 2018  – Day 39 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 39: OTHERS WILL SEE

John 13:34-5: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

 

How are others going to see you as different? Let them see Jesus in you as you deliberately go about living His command.

 

 

DAY 38

 

December 12, 2018  – Day 38 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 38: SHARE

Isaiah 58:6-8: "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard."

 

Know that your light of your righteousness will appear; slowly at first, then stronger, spreading abroad covering the world around you. Know that the presence of the Lord has your back.

 

 

DAY 37

 

December 11, 2018  – Day 37 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 37: GET READY

Isaiah 2:2-3: In the last days, the mountain of the LORD's temple will be established as chief among the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and all nations will stream to it. Many peoples will come and say, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths." The law will go out from Zion, the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.

 

Are you prepared to guide those who are coming? Are you ready to walk with them—teaching and encouraging? Get ready for the crowds.

 

 

DAY 36

 

December 10, 2018  – Day 36 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 36: SHOW ME WHERE

Zechariah 7:9: "This is what the LORD Almighty says: 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.'”

 

Micah 6:8: He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

 

Give others their due. Keep in the Word. Watch for opportunity.

 

 

DAY 35

 

December 9, 2018  – Day 35 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 35: HOLD ON

Hebrews 3:13-14: But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.  We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.

 

Work on finding ways to encourage and build up others. Ask the Holy Spirit to develop that in you.

 

 

DAY 34

 

December 8, 2018  – Day 34 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 34: KEEP THE FIRE BURNING

Romans 12:11: Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

 

Matthew 25:16: “The man who had received the five talents went at once and put his money to work and gained five more.”

 

Be quick to carry out Holy Spirit’s urging in you.

 

 

DAY 33

 

December 7, 2018  – As we enter day 33 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—focus on seeking fellowship with your Heavenly Father.

 

Prayer Focus Day 33: FELLOWSHIP WITH THE FATHER

1 John 1:3: We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

 

This is the time to work on developing a closer, deeper fellowship with the Lord. Tell Him this desire.

 

 

DAY 32

 

December 6, 2018  – On day 32 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—thank the Lord in advance for answering your prayers.

 

Prayer Focus Day 32: ANSWERED PRAYERS

Mark 11:22-24: And Jesus answered them, "Have faith in God. Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."

 

Pray in expectation.  Envision your request as having been completed and thank Him for the answer.

 

 

DAY 31

 

December 5, 2018  – As we move into Day 31 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—let's strengthen our faith by focusing on God's spoken word.

 

Prayer Focus Day 31: FAITH and GOD'S SPOKEN WORD

Matthew 21:21-22: And Jesus answered them, "Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' it will happen. And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith."

 

Develop your faith by speaking out the word of God, for faith comes through hearing His word.

 

 

DAY 30

 

December 4, 2018  – Day 30 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 30: HEALING AND FORGIVENESS

Isaiah 53:4-5: "Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed."

 

Jesus took your infirmities, your illnesses, onto Himself and, with that victory, gave us healing and forgiveness of sins. Receive it and thank Him for it.

 

 

DAY 29

 

December 3, 2018  – As we enter day 29 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—remember that the Lord is the same yesterday, today, and forever!

 

Prayer Focus Day 29: HIS POWER AND MAJESTY

 

Isaiah 46:9-10: ... remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,'

 

Praise the Lord for His Power, His Might, and the fact that He is our heavenly Father.

 

 

DAY 28

 

December 2, 2018  – It was three times that the Lord called to Samuel before the priest Eli helped him understand who was calling.

 

Let's focus on patience as we enter day 28 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord.

 

Prayer Focus Day 28: BE PATIENT

 

1 Samuel 3:3-5: The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was.  Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, "Here I am." And he ran to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." But Eli said, "I did not call; go back and lie down." So he went and lay down.

 

1 Samuel 3:8-9: The LORD called Samuel a third time, and Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." Then Eli realized that the LORD was calling the boy. So Eli told Samuel, "Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, 'Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.'" So Samuel went and lay down in his place.

 

Don’t give up asking to hear God’s voice. Just keep listening for Him in some quiet place. Write down the words you hear. You’re on your way.

 

 

DAY 27

 

December 1, 2018  – Day 27 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 27: GATHER

 

2 Chronicles 20:2-4: Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, "A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the Sea. It is already in Hazazon Tamar" (that is, En Gedi). Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the LORD; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him.

 

Envision this gathering, a throng of believers gathered to cry out to Jehovah.  Gather a group from MC3 or your study group and cry out to the Lord during this special time.

 

 

DAY 26

 

November 30, 2018  – Day 26 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 26: TARGETS FOR PRAYER

 

Acts 14:23: Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.

 

Fast and pray on behalf of someone you know who is hurting.

 

 

DAY 25

 

November 29, 2018  – Day 25 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 25: GET IN THE HABIT

 

Proverbs 11:24-5  One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

 

Look for those in need. Then give. Give time - comfort - encouragement - guidance - resources. You will be refreshed.

 

 

DAY 24

 

November 28, 2018  – Day 24 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 24: COMMITMENT

 

Acts 14:23: Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.

 

Make this personal. Fast and pray committing yourself to seek His purpose. Rejoice knowing God has promised to hear and answer.

 

 

DAY 23

 

November 27, 2018  – Day 23 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 23: DISPLAY YOUR JOY

 

Psalm 100:2: Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.

 

Show others your gladness and joy in the Lord, particularly your family. Make a time to rejoice together. Sing a favorite chorus or hymn together.

 

 

DAY 22

 

November 26, 2018  – The Israelites asked for a king, thereby sinning against God, yet the prophet reminded them that God is merciful and to return to Him.

 

Let's focus on MERCY as we enter day 22 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 22: MERCIFUL GOD

 

1 Samuel 12:20:  "Do not be afraid," Samuel replied. "You have done all this evil; yet do not turn away from the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart."

 

No matter your history, come to Him now and step out on a fresh walk.

 

 

DAY 21

 

November 25, 2018  – Day 21 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 21: BULLETS FOR YOUR NOTECARD

 

Deuteronomy 10:12: And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul.

 

God has put it very simply: walk - love - serve.  When you do this with others in mind, He is being served.

 

 

DAY 20

 

November 24, 2018  – Day 20 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 20: ATTITUDE

 

Psalm 2:11: Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling.

 

Think about being called upon for a special project for the CEO, or the Governor, or the President. Our current effort is for Almighty God.

 

 

DAY 19

 

November 23, 2018  – As we enter Day 19 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—when was the last time you shouted praises in jubilation? A football game or Little League run scored?

 

If the earth and all creation shouts about your redemption, shouldn’t you?

 

Prayer Focus Day 19: LOUD PRAISE AND REJOICING

 

Isaiah 44:23: Sing, O heavens, for the LORD has done it; shout, O depths of the earth; break forth into singing, O mountains, O forest, and every tree in it! For the LORD has redeemed Jacob, and will be glorified in Israel.

 

Isaiah 12:6: Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel."

 

Today, shout out your praise and thanksgiving to your Lord and Savior. It’s easy to do in the car or with your family at home. Shout out the blessings He has poured out on you because He loves you so. Let it all out for Him.

 

 

DAY 18

 

November 22, 2018  – Day 18 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 18: DIG DEEP INTO THE WORD

 

Psalm 119:18: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.

 

Meditate on the passage you're reading and ask the Lord, by His Spirit, to remove any blinders covering your eyes.

 

Consider this quote from Albert Barnes:

 

“Things which are suited to excite wonder and amazement: that is, things which are secret or hidden from the common view; the deep, spiritual meaning of the word of God.”

 

 

DAY 17

 

November 21, 2018  – During a time of agricultural disaster, the nation of Israel was called upon to gather everyone for a time of corporate prayer and fasting.

 

As MC3 Church moves into day 17 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—we encourage everyone to remember that this is a time of renewal, a time of strengthening, and a time of unity.

 

Prayer Focus Day 17: FASTING

 

Joel 1:14: Declare a holy fast; call a sacred assembly. Summon the elders and all who live in the land to the house of the LORD your God, and cry out to the LORD.

 

MC3 is asking for corporate fasting and prayer as it seeks direction during this time of transition.

 

 

DAY 16

 

November 20, 2018  – Day 16 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 16: GRACE

 

1 Peter 4:10: Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.

 

Desire the fullness of God's grace to accompany you as you serve. Remember, the Holy Spirit is flowing through you as His agent. Thank the Lord for using you.

 

 

DAY 15

 

November 19, 2018  – Praise and worship leaders have a special calling and we want to honor them on day 15 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 15:

THANK GOD FOR ANOINTED WORSHIP

 

1 Chronicles 25:1 : David and the chiefs of the service also set apart for the service the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who prophesied with lyres, with harps, and with cymbals. See also verses 1-7.

 

Pray for the singers and musicians who lead worship. Pray that the fire of the Holy Spirit would envelop them as they prepare for Sunday service. Take time to thank and encourage them personally. Thank God as you worship joyfully this Sunday.

 

 

DAY 14

 

November 18, 2018  – Day 14 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 14: SERVICE

 

Matthew 20:28: “... just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

 

Christianity is all about others. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you someone who the Lord would have you get to know.

 

 

DAY 13

 

November 17, 2018  – Day 13 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 13: GUIDANCE and PROTECTION

 

Isaiah 41:12-13 says, "You shall seek those who contend with you, but you shall not find them; those who war against you shall be as nothing at all. For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, "Fear not, I am the one who helps you."

 

Pray with confidence that you are surrounded by the Father's hedge of protection and that He will guide you through your current circumstances.

 

 

DAY 12

 

November 16, 2018  – Day 12 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 12: THANKFULNESS

 

Isaiah 41:10: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." 

 

Thank the Lord for His faithfulness, for His power, for His watch-care over us.

 

 

DAY 11

 

November 15, 2018  – Day 11 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 11: THANKFULNESS

 

2 Timothy 1:6-7: "For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

 

Thank Him for the love and power He has planted in you to carry out His work for you.

 

 

DAY 10

 

November 14, 2018  – Day 10 of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 10: CONSUME THE WORD OF GOD

 

Proverbs 4:20-22 says, "My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh."

 

Faith comes from hearing the Word. Speak the Word each day Memorize a favorite healing verse or two. God may be showing you a Scripture for someone else.

 

 

DAY 9

 

November 13, 2018  – Day nine of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 9: PURPOSE

 

Ezra 8:21: 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.

 

You may not be traveling, yet this preparation is a reminder of who we are coming before.

 

 

DAY 8

 

November 12, 2018  – Day eight of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 8: WORKING

 

Acts 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."

 

While you are before the Lord, ask Him for the work He would have you do.

 

 

DAY 7

 

November 11, 2018  – Day seven of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 7: LISTEN

 

John 14:16-17: And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

 

Hearing from God flows through the Holy Spirit. Greet the Holy Spirit as you come before the Father.

 

 

DAY 6

 

November 10, 2018  – Day six of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord:

 

Prayer Focus Day 6: BE PATIENT

 

Isaiah 64:4: Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.

 

A glorious promise has been given to us. He will act on your behalf.

 

 

DAY 5

 

November 9, 2018  – Today marks the fifth day of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—and we encourage you to consider these profound words from E.M. Bounds:

 

"If you desire to pray to God, you must first have a consuming desire to obey Him."

 

Prayer Focus Day 5: GOD IS WORKING IN YOU

 

Psalm 105:4:  Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.

Philippians 2:13: For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

 

Allow God to be in charge. It is sometimes a slow revelation.

 

 

DAY 4

 

November 8, 2018  – As we enter day four of FAST FORWARD—our 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—we encourage you to consider what an adventure is in store for those who seek Him.

 

Luke 11:1 tells us: "Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, 'Lord, teach us to pray.'"

 

Christ is our teacher; look to Him.

 

Prayer Focus Day 4: FASTING

 

Matthew 6:16-18: "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, 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 men 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."

 

Fasting should be a time of joy with the Father. Draw close to Him and listen carefully for His voice.  The Lord delights to be in fellowship with you.

 

 

DAY 3

 

November 7, 2018  – Prayer is an awesome privilege for believers, since those who do not know Christ personally are shut out from His presence.

 

That's one of the reasons MC3 Church launched FAST FORWARD, or 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord.

 

We know that Father desires to hear from us, for He said in Jeremiah 33:3, "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

 

Prayer Focus Day 3: WHO IS THIS GOD WE PRAY TO?

 

Exodus 34:6-7: "And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, "The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin."

 

As you put your mind around the magnitude and wonder of God, ask Him to fill you with power and consider how you can put that into service for Him.

 

 

DAY 2

 

November 6, 2018  – As we enter the second day of FAST FORWARD, or 49 days of fasting and service for the Lord, remember that prayer is a many-faceted expression of our relationship to God.

 

We know that Christ is ever interceding for us with the Father.  Having this Advocate, we come to Him in wonder and confidence of being heard and receiving answers.

 

Prayer Focus Day 2: JOY

 

Psalm 105:3-4  Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.

 

Albert Barnes comments: “The idea is, in your praises let the main subject be the name of God—that holy name by which he chooses to be known.”

 

Thank Him for the love and power He has planted in you to carry out His work for you.

 

 

DAY 1

 

November 5, 2018  – Today, MC3 begins what we’re calling FAST FORWARD, or 49 days of prayer, fasting and service for the Lord—fasting not so much in the sense of doing without but rather as a time of selflessness and service to others.

 

Each day, we will provide pertinent scripture and a prayer focus to guide our efforts.

 

Prayer Focus Day 1: Thankfulness

 

2 Timothy 1:6-7 says, "For this reason, I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

 

Thank Him for the love and power He has planted in you to carry out His work for you.

Sunday, November 11, 2018 – The MC3 Church membership today approved a set of leadership candidates and two amendments to the church bylaws.

 

The voting occurred during MC3’s annual congregational meeting. The congregation:

• Reconfirmed Jon Peters and elected for the first time Gene McBride as trustees, the group which has responsibility for signing the church’s legal documents at the direction of the elders.
• Elected Jim Barber to serve as elder. Jim previously has served multiple terms in this position.
• Reconfirmed Kevin Singleton as a deacon and elected David Bugg, Jim Walters and Bruce Wilson as first-time deacons.

 

The congregation also approved two bylaw changes that would allow the elders to:

• Appoint a new trustee if the number of trustees falls below the minimum threshold of three as required by the bylaws—a situation the church found itself in earlier this year when an existing trustee resigned, leaving MC3 with just two trustees.
• Appoint a new treasurer if the position becomes vacant or new assistant treasurers if their numbers become insufficient to manage church business.

In all cases, the elder-appointed candidates would serve in their new roles only until the next congregational meeting when they would have to be voted on by the congregation.

 

The bylaw changes make the positions of trustee, treasurer and assistant treasurer consistent with existing rules that allows elders to fill elder-board vacancies when the number falls below the minimum required number of five.

 

September 24, 2018 – Today, MC3 Church completed the sale of our church property at 6015 Old Stone Mountain Road to the Diocese of North America and Europe of the Mar Thoma Church.

 

The purchase price was $5.9 million. Under terms of the agreement, Mar Thoma paid MC3 $3 million at closing, with the remaining $2.9 million financed by MC3 over an 18-month period at 6 percent interest.

 

If Mar Thoma pays off the mortgage balance within the first 90 days of closing, as expected, all interest payments shall be credited against the mortgage. Should Mar Thoma fail to meet its obligations—a situation we believe in no way will happen—the property would revert back to MC3 for ownership.

 

MC3’s trustees, Jim Barber and Jon Peters, and Jay Wright, chairman of the elder board, signed the closing documents for MC3. Senior Minister Art Stansberry presented the keys to the church to the bishop of Mar Thoma Church, who traveled from India for today’s closing.

 

Looking ahead, our MC3 congregation will continue to hold worship services and maintain offices at the Stone Mountain property through December. Mar Thoma expects to hold their first worship service in the sanctuary in December, following a series of renovations they have planned.

 

“This is an answer to many prayers over many years, and all credit goes to our Lord and Savior,” Art Stansberry said. “When we started this process, we wanted God to do something so bold that everyone would realize only God could have done it. He has delivered once again.”

 

As shared in previous communications, we extend a special thanks to our realtors, Bill Palaski, Matt Messier and the entire Foundry Commercial team, who have worked tirelessly since last summer to show our building and secure the sale. They were picked as our realtors through a very competitive bidding process and have truly been a blessing to us throughout the past year.

 

Looking to the future, we ask for continued prayer as God leads our search for a new home and as He leads Mar Thoma on a new chapter in their history.

Aug. 27, 2018 – As announced at the close of yesterday’s worship service, we have agreed to sell MC3’s property at 6015 Old Stone Mountain Road to the Diocese of North America and Europe of the Mar Thoma Church.

 

On Friday, we entered into a fully executed purchase agreement for Mar Thoma to buy the property for $5.9 million. Their down payment of $100,000 will be transferred to us from escrow as early as today, and the closing for the transaction will occur Sept. 24. We solicit your prayers that the process will continue to run smoothly and we will indeed close on the sale next month.

 

As you know, we embarked on a journey last summer to sell this property and re-envision the church. Early in the process, senior minister Art Stansberry challenged the leadership team to believe that God would do something so bold that everyone would realize only God could have done it.

 

Well, the good Lord has delivered once again on His promise, and our prayers have been answered.

We are beyond excited by what God has done and continues to do for His church. The church has faced significant financial hurdles for a long time, and yet God has always provided. He deserves all of the Glory for writing this latest chapter in MC3’s history.

 

We are also thrilled that a church steeped in the Christian faith and Biblical principles will continue to operate at our present location. Please keep the Mar Thoma congregations and organization in your prayers as they seek the Lord’s will and move in a new and exciting direction for their congregation as well.

 

Likewise, we want to say a special thanks to our realtors, Bill Palaski, Matt Messier and the entire Foundry Commercial team, who have worked tirelessly since last summer to show the property and secure the sale. They were picked as our realtors through a very competitive bidding process and have truly been a blessing to us throughout the past year.

 

Looking to the future, Mar Thoma will continue to allow us to worship rent-free on the property at least through December. In the meantime, we are working with the realtors to identify a new location for MC3. Expect to hear more details in the coming weeks as we continue to move through this process.

July 29, 2018 – You have an opportunity to own a piece of the history of MC3 and Mount Carmel Christian Church.

 

On Sunday, we kicked off a silent auction to give folks an opportunity to purchase some of the remaining Christian artwork that has graced the halls of the church through the years.

 

The available paintings and bid sheets are located in the breezeway outside the fellowship hall. The auction will run until 2 p.m. Sunday, July 29.

 

We have 36 pieces of framed artwork available. Much of our collection was returned to the donors, but some chose to leave their artwork to the church for sale.

 

Bidding for most pieces starts at $10, although some are priced at $20. You can bid in increments of $5. All proceeds will benefit MC3 ministries.

 

If you have questions, please contact Nancy Sorrells.

 

See list of artwork for sale

See NGCC's summer camp schedule!

 

May 18, 2018 - MC3 Church partners with North Georgia Christian Camp to provide summer camp opportunities for kids and students entering kindergarten through college.

 

Currently, we have targeted the Jun 17-21session for our rising third through fifth graders. Art Stansberry will serve as dean for that week of Middler camp.

 

Meanwhile, Art could use your help to serve as a camp counselor during that week.

 

The requirements are:

• You Need to love Jesus!
• You need to love third- through fifth-grade students.
• You need to enjoy the outdoors (sort of).
• You need to be age 15 or older.

 

If you would like to serve at Middler Camp this year, please see Art ASAP!

May 7, 2018 – After much discussion and prayer, we have decided not to hold our normal Vacation Bible School this year.

 

Given the transition we are currently experiencing, including our efforts to sell this property and relocate to a new building, MC3's leadership concluded we simply do not have the available resources to support an event that brings more than 200 people onto our campus each night of VBS.

 

Instead of a community-oriented, week-long event, we will hold a VBS celebration during our First Wednesday dinner and worship service on June 6, beginning at 6 p.m. in the fellowship hall. A team of VBS experts led by Christy Stansberry is currently putting together the event, which will include a nod to many of the great VBS events we have done in the past.

 

"Our church is known in the community for the outstanding VBS program we put forth each year," said MC3 Church Senior Minister Art Stansberry. "We are using this year to regroup and plan to be back better than ever next year."

March 31, 2018 – Reaching the ONE who needs Christ in our community and world will be the guiding vision of MC3 Church, which launches Easter Sunday.

 

MC3 Church will strive to be a family that follows Christ and serves His kingdom. The church will put renewed emphasis on leading people into a relationship with Christ and then helping build them into Fully Devoted followers of Jesus.

“We are excited about the future the Lord has for this body of believers,” said Art Stansberry, senior minister of MC3. “We want to help lost people know who Jesus is and help believers build a deeper, fuller relationship with Him.”

 

MC3 Church is the new name for what was previously known as Mount Carmel Christian Church, a church body that came into existence more than 113 years ago. The decision to rename and re-envision the church was the end product of prayer and discussion that has been ongoing for many years.

 

Art and the elders hope and pray that all of the changes being made will help the church be more effective at fulfilling the Great Commission to baptize new believers.

 

“We have an incredible opportunity to share the gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ—with a community that desperately needs him,” Art said. “Our vision begins with the ONE who needs Christ, but it doesn’t end there. We have a mission to create Fully Devoted followers of Jesus, and that means discipling and ministering to each other so that we all grow stronger and deeper in our faith. Seeking the lost and edifying the saved is what the Lord wants us to do as a body of believers.”

 

 

Find out what you can expect