Prayer and Fasting

   Have just finished today my first book in Portuguese other than the Bible. It is entitled Oracao e do Jejum, "Prayer and Fasting." Originally it was written in English by Mahesh Chavda, born a Hindu in E. Africa who converted to Christ, moved to the US, and now leads a church in N. Carolina. The subtitle is liberating the power of the church that prays. It contains powerful testimonies, and exhortation to pray and fast. Some of the purposes for this are to draw closer to God, ( James 4:8) humble ourselves, unleash spiritual power, especially against the power of the enemy, and to provide for the needy. I found it challenging, convicting, and encouraging. While i have fasted in the past, this writing provides fresh impetus to seek God and to see His kingdom advance in the earth.
    Have had a very good time of study and prayer with Samir this afternoon. He is a faithful brother, a true Timothy, who is serving his wife and family, the youth, and many others in different churches with whom he has relationship. Through him I have received not only hospitality but also many opportunities to minister to various people in many ways.
     Am continuing to be impressed with what i see of the church here. There is much mutual respect among the elders and deacons in the leadership. I learned that the elders rotate responsibilities with a different one providing administrative leadership each month. They meet at least weekly to read the Bible together, pray, and seek the Lord about necessary decisions. God is faithful.