7 Days of Prayer & Fasting 2025

7 Days of Prayer and Fasting

Welcome to our website's daily devotional section for the 7 days of preparation towards Easter in fasting and prayer. We are excited to embark on this journey together and we pray that these daily devotionals will be a source of encouragement and inspiration for you.

During these 7 days, we encourage you to set aside time each day to read and reflect on the devotionals, to pray and fast, and to seek God's presence in your life. Our hope is that this time of preparation will deepen your faith and bring you closer to the heart of God.

Thank you for joining us in this time of preparation.

May God bless you abundantly as you seek Him with all your heart.

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21 Days of Prayer & Fasting 2025

Welcome to 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting: Kingdom Living

1st – 21st January 2025

Are you ready to start the new year with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection with God? Join us at All Nations Community Church for our annual 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting, an intentional time of seeking God and aligning our lives with the principles of His Kingdom.

Why 21 Days?

Prayer and fasting are powerful spiritual disciplines that help us grow in faith, break free from distractions, and tune into God’s voice. Over these 21 days, we’ll explore the theme: “Kingdom Living: Understanding and Living Out the Principles of God’s Kingdom in Everyday Life.”

This is more than a fast; it’s a journey of spiritual renewal, transformation, and empowerment to live boldly for Christ.

What to Expect

Daily Focused Themes

Each day, we will explore a unique Kingdom principle supported by Scripture, devotionals, and practical applications. Themes include:

• Day 1: The Kingdom of God: What Is It?

• Day 7: Kingdom Attitudes: The Beatitudes

• Day 15: Kingdom Forgiveness: Letting Go of Offenses

• Day 21: Living as Kingdom Ambassadors

Resources Provided

• Devotional Booklet: Download your free copy, featuring daily Scriptures, reflections, prayers, and application steps.

• Daily Video Encouragements: Watch 60-second devotionals on YouTube to inspire and guide your journey.

• Zoom Prayer: Every day, we will meet on Zoom to pray.

How to Join

1. Commit to the Fast
   Decide how you will fast—whether it’s giving up specific meals, food items, or distractions like social media.

2. Download the Resources
   Get your free 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting: Kingdom Living devotional booklet here.

3. Engage Daily
   Follow the devotionals, pray intentionally, and reflect on each day’s theme. Watch our daily video encouragements to stay motivated and focused.

Let’s Seek His Kingdom Together

This is your opportunity to draw closer to God, hear His voice, and live out His principles in your daily life. Start the year with spiritual clarity, peace, and purpose.

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21 Days of Prayer and Fasting Booklet

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Zoom Schedule:

Dates: 1st – 21st January 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM GMT
Meeting Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84176912984
Meeting ID: 841 7691 2984

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Blessing Decrees

Blessing Decrees

We believe in the power of confession and agreeing with what God has spoken and promised us in His Word.

Here you will find prophetic decrees for each month to speak and declare blessings over your life, your family, your workplace, and your world.

JANUARY

SCRIPTURE

Ephesians 4:29, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” NKJV

DECREES

1. I speak God’s breath of Life in and through me, reviving those things that have been dead and dormant.

2. I release desire and passion for doing His will and purpose that will excite me once again.

3. I bless my Spirit with renewed truth and freedom in God. Strengthen me with power, boldness and confidence.

4. I release an open heaven over me declaring great potential and a heart to do what is right. Decree: I release blessings that empower me to succeed.

5. May I be fruitful, multiply, increase, satisfy and fulfil Kingdom Purposes.

6. I am blessed with forward thinking. Defeat is not an option as I am positioned in the perfect will of God.

7. I am blessed with God’s best.

FEBRUARY

SCRIPTURE

James 3:10, “This is scary: You can tame a tiger, but you can’t tame a tongue—it’s never been done. The tongue runs wild, a wanton killer. With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and blessings out of the same mouth!” (The Message)

DECREES

1. I bless my life. I declare strength, stability, and a rich heritage as a child of God.

2. I release favour upon the works of my hands. Preparing myself to receive all that God has promised me.

3. I speak confidence allowing purity, righteousness and justice to arise in all I do and say.

4. I am blessed with exuberant joy, excitement and passion for advancing the Kingdom of God.

5. I am blessed and claim Life is GOOD. I am no longer a slave to a cursed life.

6. I am blessed because God is on my side!

7. I am full of purpose, passion and have a unique destiny designed by God.

MARCH

SCRIPTURE

“Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit—you choose.” Proverbs 18:21 (The Message)

DECREES

1. I bless my spirit and my body. I break off infirmity and speak the blessings of the Lord, decreeing health, fullness and favour.

2. I bless my soul as I think on things that are lovely, pure and of good report. I break agreement with the emotional bondage of fear and worry. I speak hope and freedom to my soul.

3. I bless my eyes, for I see with Kingdom vision. My future is bright so I will seize every opportunity God presents before me.

4. I bless my mouth, as my words are pleasing to God. I claim His promises and goodness over my life.

5. I bless my hands, for they are favoured of the Lord and all that I set my hands to shall prosper.

6. I bless my feet, for they shall walk uprightly and crush the enemy’s head.

7. I am blessed, healthy, whole, and will live long. I am stable, incorruptible, fruitful, full of peace, patience and love.

APRIL

SCRIPTURE

Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (NIV)

DECREES

1. I am blessed as a child of God. I allow God’s love to overtake and consume my every thought.

2. I look ahead with hope. My future is bright and I will seize every moment God presents before me.

3. I am confident and not ashamed. I allow purity, righteousness and justice to arise in all I say and do.

4. I release a fresh vision to dream again, bringing unlimited joy and peace to my life.

5. I look forward with victory. My portion is filled with grace.

6. I trust in the Lord so I will not be anxious, afraid or deceived. I release a future filled with goodness and prosperity. LIFE IS GOOD!

MAY

SCRIPTURE

Matthew 5:8-9, “You’re blessed when you get your inside world—your mind and heart—put right. Then you can see God in the outside world. You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family.” (The Message)

DECREES

1. As I bless others, I agree with God’s intentions and release His plans for their lives.

2. I will bless others as I express my love practically with my heart open and transparent.

3. I will not be shaken and will stand firm in unity and allow truth to prevail in my relationships.

4. I speak to my soul: I will not fear or worry for I will take captive the emotional bondage of these spirits.

5. I am blessed with discernment as I walk uprightly. I release the spirit of empowerment to succeed in all I set my hand to.

6. I rejoice in doing good. As I apply the truth to every situation, peace will be my comfort.

7. I release hope, freedom and truth to prevail in my soul. I remain solid and strong, thinking on things that are lovely, pure and of good report.

JUNE

SCRIPTURE

John 6:63, “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.” (NIV)

DECREES

1. I am equipped with power and might and shall arise as a kingdom warrior.

2. I decree bravery and courage to motivate the world changer inside of me.

3. I am full of mercy and grace and I overflow with love.

4. The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus.

5. I pray with confidence and assurance that I hear my Father God’s voice clearly and obey without hesitation.

6. I am an ambassador of hope. I take refuge in the assurance of the one who gives hope.

JULY

SCRIPTURE

James 3:9-10a, “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing…” (NIV)

DECREES

1. My lips are anointed with grace. I will bless others with my words.

2. My tongue will proclaim words of encouragement and hope.

3. I align myself with God and speak His truth and His intentions over my life.

4. I will arise and become a person of integrity, humility and love.

5. I will keep my promises and take personal responsibility for what God has entrusted me to accomplish.

6. I am blessed as I arise in God’s power and authority to become a re-shaper of my world.

7. I am faithful, loyal and an honest hard worker. I will never quit!

AUGUST

SCRIPTURE

Mathew 5:5, “You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are—no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought.” (The Message)

DECREES

1. I am FREE! I am abundantly free by the Blood of Jesus Christ.

2. I decree that I see with eyes that are focused and clear to see exactly

3. what God is calling me to do.

4. I decree that I have endless energy, boundless strength and divine empowerment.

5. As my trust is in the Lord, I am now free to speak truth and boldly declare His goodness.

6. I decree I shall remain solid in the teaching of Christ. I shall not be shaken and will stand firm.

7. I speak Hope, freedom, and truth over my soul.

8. I am filled with God’s favour and I bless others.

SEPTEMBER

SCRIPTURE

Genesis 1:27, “God created human beings; he created them godlike, reflecting God’s nature. He created them male and female. God blessed them.” (The Message)

DECREES

1. I bless my mouth as my words are pleasing to God. I claim His promises and goodness over my life.

2. My tongue will proclaim words of encouragement and hope.

3. I will arise and be bold, unafraid and filled with courage.

4. I excel in strength and am clothed in honour.

5. I will rise in spite of pain, opposition, and fear. I am victorious!

6. My life is full of potential and I will fulfil my ordained destiny.

7. I am blessed as I keep justice and do what is right.

OCTOBER

SCRIPTURE

Psalm 51:12, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.”

DECREES

1. I will stand and uphold righteous values.

2. I speak compassion, mercy, and tenderheartedness towards others.

3. I will conduct myself according to the character of Jesus.

4. I will arise with respect and honour for others. I will be inspired to love and serve as Jesus did.

5. I am filled, healed, and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

6. I will make truth & love the motives behind all that I do.

7. I rest in you alone, Lord, in my body, mind, heart & soul.

8. My heart is strengthened as I have faith in you.

9. I trust in the generous mercies of my God.

NOVEMBER

SCRIPTURE

Psalm 19:14, “May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”

DECREES

1. I will renew my strength as I wait on the Lord. I will run and not be weary. I will walk and not faint.

2. My trust is in my God. He is my refuge and my fortress. He will deliver me and no evil will come near me.

3. My God has great plans for me. He has peaceful thoughts towards me. He will prosper me. He listens to me and gives me a future filled with hope.

4. Let my words and my heart be consistent with Your word and Your way. Let them be acceptable in Your sight.

5. My God is good, His mercies are everlasting and His truth endures forever.

6. As my praises give thanks to the Lord, I will triumph in the works of my hands.

7. I prophesy the will of God over my life. I stand declaring that I have the victory over my enemies.

DECEMBER

SCRIPTURE

Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” (NKJV)

DECREES

1. I am vibrant with life. I am strong, competent and loyal.

2. I illuminate gracefulness, valour, and strength.

3. I am solid, immoveable, and unchangeable in my faith.

4. I am fully connected, confident, and grateful for my God.

5. I recognise the mercies of God upon my life and I celebrate with a new level of hope.

6. I will live a supernatural life with the power of the Holy Spirit as I’m obedient to the Word of God.

7. My appointed time is now. I will embrace my destiny with vigour and great excitement.

Our Prayer Meetings

Our Prayer Meetings:

Welcome to our prayer calendar page!

We believe that prayer is one of the most important ways we can connect with God and grow in our faith. As we pray, we invite God's presence into our lives and into the lives of those around us. Prayer is not only about asking for things; it's also about listening to God's voice and seeking His guidance. When we pray, we acknowledge that we are not in control and we invite God to work in and through us.

Share Your Praise Reports

Share Your Praise Reports

Let’s not forget that prayer is just the prelude to a praise report. Through our prayer ministry many people have been healed, lives changed, circumstances turned around and we believe to see much more! Send us your praise reports we want to hear what God is doing in your life.

Submit Your Prayer Request

Prayer Works

Psalm 6:9 (CEB) 9 The Lord has listened to my request. The Lord accepts my prayer.

There are many ways to ask for prayer at All Nations Community Church.

Every Sunday, you have the opportunity to fill out a prayer request form during the service and place it in our prayer collection box. We will then pray for these needs throughout the week.

Alternatively, you can add your prayer request to our online prayer wall; people will then be able to see it and join you in prayer. Our dedicated prayer team will also see it and will continue to pray for your request during the week.

* Please keep your prayer brief. Prayers may be removed if the issue is sensitive or inappropriate to be shared online.*

Alternatively

You can email info@allnationscc.com and the prayer team will pray for your request.

*If you have a massive heart for prayer and would like to be a part of the extended prayer team, email the above address and we will contact you with further information.

Freedom in Christ

The course is based around the words of Jesus as found in John 8:38 "Then you will know the truth and the truth shall set you free".

This is focused on firstly establishing every Christian in the sure foundation of their identity in Jesus, it then gives them the tools to break free and stay free from all that holds them back, and a strategy for ongoing transformation.

I encourage everyone to attend this course at least once. The course is FREE but we need people to book themselves in so that we can order the appropriate resources.

Please sign up below:

Development Track

The All Nations Community Church (ANCC) Development Track guides you to discover your redemptive purpose and live the life God created for you.

You were designed to be a part of a church family, and that’s exactly what ANCC is intended to be—your family.

Please register for the upcoming Development Track by filling out the form below.

Grace Course

The Grace Course

The Grace Course is a straightforward, effective way for churches to help Christians understand God’s grace and be motivated by God’s love alone, so that they go on to bear “much fruit”. It provides powerful, practical ways to submit to God, identify faulty thinking and renew the mind.

• Live a fruitful Christian life simply by being the person God made you to be.

• Don’t “perform” any longer for God or other people but learn to serve out of love.

• Hold your head up high no matter what’s in your past.

• Get rid of condemning thoughts and that “low grade fever” of guilt.

• Stop returning to the same old sins again and again.

• Fear nothing and no one except God Himself.

• Learn to serve out of genuine rest.

• Work together with others to reach the world for Christ.

The Grace Course has 6 sessions plus a practical, life-transforming ministry tool — The Steps to Experiencing God’s Grace.

Strip back the course and you will be left with this statement – ‘Christians who are motivated by God’s grace will bear much fruit’.

The Grace Course objective is to catapult Christians into fruitful living through re-connecting them with grace. It’s a tool for churches to refocus their congregation. It’s not behaviour modification, it’s a grace experience.

I encourage everyone to attend this course at least once. The course is FREE but we need people to book themselves in so that we can order the appropriate resources.

Please sign up below:

Discipleship Explored

Discipleship Explored helps followers of Jesus turn up the gospel soundtrack to their lives.

It’s easy to make a list of the things Christians do — go to church, read the Bible, pray, share the gospel — but that doesn’t really tell us much about what the experience of following Jesus is actually like. That’s where Discipleship Explored comes in.

The series is based on the Bible book of Philippians and is full of human stories from every continent about the reality of being a Christian in today’s world. Discipleship Explored invites us on a journey to discover a new way of living centred on incredible love.

To register for the upcoming Discipleship Explored Course, please sign up below.

Christianity Explored

Christianity Explored is a relaxed and informal way of sharing the best news you can ever hear, and gives people space and time to think about the big questions of life.

Can we know God?Seven sessions looking at Jesus’s life in Mark’s gospel, meeting the man who claimed to be God and discovering how he changed history.

What's each session about?

Over seven sessions, guests will read Mark's Gospel to find out more about the life of the person at the heart of the Christian faith – Jesus Christ.

To register for the upcoming course, please fill in the registration form below.

The Alpha Course

Got questions about faith? 

Alpha is all about exploring Christianity, and there will be opportunities for discussion.

The sessions will start with food and refreshments.

Please register for the next Alpha Course.

Life Groups

ANCC Life Groups

Life Groups have one simple purpose: to bring people together. We believe God created us to live in relationship with others and only then can we live the full life He intends for us. Sharing life through community is part of our design.

Our next life group topic:

Live Life Kingdom-Sized

By Nilav Kolay

Jesus declared that He had inaugurated the Kingdom of God, and when we choose to follow Him we become His subjects in the Kingdom. What is my role? How do I live as a Kingdom citizen while on earth? What does that look like in my everyday life?

When we want to live life Kingdom-sized, our concerns should be those that concern God. We can no longer be indifferent and distracted from the kingdom.

In these six sessions, pastor Nilav Kolay looks at six parables as recorded in the gospel of Mathew to unpack teachings about the Kingdom. Our King desires that we join Him in his Kingdom and it will only be right for us to honour His desire and live accordingly.

If you are not part of a Life Group? Register register below:

God’s Will

God has a plan for every one of us. Many people go through life wondering, what is the point of life? But God put us here for a purpose. We aren’t here by accident; we’re here because God put us here. And He put us here for a reason—so we could come to know Him in a personal way, and then live the way He wants us to live. This is the greatest discovery you will ever make: You were created to know God and to be His friend forever. God not only has a general purpose for each of us, but He also has a specific plan for each of our lives. God knows all about you, and He has a plan for you.

That’s why you can pray and seek God’s will when you face decisions, and it is why you can know God is with you every moment of the day. The Bible says, “Teach me your way, O Lord; lead me in a straight path” (Psalm 27:11).

Knowing God’s will

Knowing God’s will can give you peace in the midst of suffering and everyday trials. When you are in constant fellowship with God, He will lead you in the fulfillment of His plan.

To know God’s will, you must first know God Himself. You can do that by committing your life to Jesus Christ, who was God in human flesh. Christ came to earth to show us what God is like and save us from our sins, and once you accept Him into your heart, you are a child of God! You can know God’s specific will for your life.

If you have accepted Christ, here are some ways to understand God’s will for you:

— Make right any behavior or relationships that might keep you from knowing God’s will. Is there a certain sin that continues to plague your life? Are you in an unhealthy relationship? Confess any wrongdoing, eliminate anything that might distract you from living a godly life and commit your life to God who can make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:6). The Bible says, “I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man” (Acts 24:16).

— God will never ask you to do something outside of His will. Do you feel like He’s telling you to take a certain action? Have godly friends encouraged you to use a certain talent? Don’t ignore wise advice or your own common sense.

— Look at God’s Word, the Bible. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” What does God command of you? Has a verse motivated you to do something?

— Pray and ask God to reveal His will to you.

— Make a list of pros and cons when faced with a decision. As you seek God’s guidance, weigh your options.

How do you know when God is speaking?

Have you felt a tug to do something and wondered if it’s God speaking? Our feelings and emotions can be tricky, and they can deceive us—especially if we depend on them alone for making a decision. God gave us our emotions, and they are important, but He also gave us our mental abilities, and when we face a decision, we need to look at it carefully and logically. Part of discerning God’s will is to ask Him to help us see all sides of an issue—sometimes with help from others we trust.

But emotion and intellect aren’t enough. When we face a decision, we need to pray about it, trusting God to lead us. We also need to do it in light of God’s Word, the Bible. God will never lead you to do something that is not in accord with the Bible. Also remember to have an open mind when waiting for God to respond to your prayer. He might not answer right away, or His answer might be something you haven’t considered.

The Bible says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NASB). Make sure of your commitment to Christ, then submit every decision you face to Him. When we sincerely want God’s will above all else, He will help us know what is right.

Church

People often ask, “Why is church important? Why do I need to go to a church once I’m saved?”

The Bible encourages believers—new and old alike—to “grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). The first step in this process is to become actively involved in the ministry of a local church.

All Christians are members of the body of Christ. In fact, the church is not just a building but a group of people who have decided to follow Christ as their Savior. It is God’s will that Christians meet together as a spiritual body on the local level, which they have been doing for nearly 2,000 years. A number of New Testament letters were written to local groups of believers in different parts of the Roman Empire.

There are four main reasons we need church.

First, we need to identify ourselves with God’s people, to be counted as Christ’s followers, to come together and remain strong in the faith. Interaction with other believers builds friendship and gives spiritual stability. The writer of Hebrews 10:25 admonished the first-century followers of Christ: “Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of His coming back again is drawing near” (TLB). We cannot overemphasise the importance of fellowship in the church. There is something about fellowship within the body of believers in the local church that is unique and cannot be found elsewhere. If one live coal falls from the fire, it soon grows cold. The same principle holds true in the spiritual sense. To neglect fellowship in the church is to give up the encouragement and help of other Christians. We gather together to share our faith and strengthen one another in the Lord.

Second, the church brings people together for worship. There is nothing to compare with the work of the Holy Spirit in a Christian’s heart and mind during the singing of hymns and songs of praise, public Scripture readings, prayer and the teaching of God’s Word.

Third, regular and accurate teaching of the Bible helps us grow and live successfully as Christians. Teaching that is in step with biblical truths convicts us to do what’s right and helps us lovingly hold our fellow Christians accountable.

Fourth, the church is ideal for serving Christ and others. The evangelist Billy Graham once wrote, “I would choose a church which opens its arms to everyone with a spiritual need, regardless of social standing or race, one which has concerns about the social sins of the community, which has a missionary vision and spirit which cooperates with any worthwhile effort to bring Christ to the world. I would also choose a church which is worthy of one’s (financial gifts), and where I could unstintingly give of my talents and capabilities for the glory of God.” As we seek a church like this, we will have the opportunity to minister to others. Our lives will bear witness to Christ’s love (Matthew 5:16).

Other things to look for in a church

Churches differ by congregation and community, but the main goal is to find one that focuses on teaching the Bible. Key teachings include: the Bible as the true, authoritative Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16); there is one God who exists in three persons—God the Father, God the Son (Jesus) and God the Holy Spirit (John 14:26; Matthew 28:18-19); salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9); and spiritual maturity that develops as Christians dedicate themselves to prayer, studying the Bible and obeying God (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Colossians 2:6-7).

Prayer

Have you ever wondered what prayer is? Prayer is simply talking to God. It is meant for every moment of our lives, not just for times of suffering or joy. In fact, we should also use prayer to thank God for everything He has done in our lives.

Unfortunately, many people pray haphazardly. They speak a few words hastily in the morning, then say goodbye to God for the rest of the day. At night, they push through a few sleepy petitions. However, this is not the example of prayer that Jesus gave.

The Bible tells us to “pray continually” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). This doesn’t mean we should spend every minute of the day on our knees, but that we should have a prayerful attitude at all times—acknowledge our dependence on God, obey Him and talk to Him throughout the day. Prayer should not be our last resort; we should start every day by giving it to God.

God loves us and has promised to hear us when we pray. How can you learn to pray? First, understand why prayer is possible. Prayer is possible because Jesus Christ removed the barrier between us and God—a barrier caused by our sins.

You see, sin separates us from God, and because of that, we have no right to come before Him. But by His death on the cross, Christ paid the penalty for our sins and removed the barrier. God then gives us the privilege of coming into His presence when we commit our lives to Christ. The Bible says, “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). If you have never done so, ask Christ to come into your life today.

Then understand that God now welcomes you into His presence and promises to hear you. The Bible says, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14).

Does God answer prayers? Even if God doesn’t seem to answer your prayers at first, don’t stop praying. He loves you, and no prayer goes unanswered. Sometimes, God answers our prayers when we don’t realize it; He might answer “No,” or “Wait.” Yes, we think we know what’s best for us, but God sees the whole picture, and sometimes He lovingly refuses to give us what we request because He knows it isn’t according to His perfect plan.

We should also pray for others—even our enemies—as well as our leaders. When we pray for them, we should have faith that our prayers will be answered, but at the same time, remember to seek God’s will.

The Bible says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind” (James 1:5-6).

Maybe you find yourself praying in church, with a group of friends or at work. Sometimes, though, it might be easier to pray and hear God in silence. God Himself said, “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Try to find a quiet place where you can approach God without distraction and give Him your complete attention. No matter where you pray, remember that personal testimonies, church history and the Bible all confirm that prayer works.

The Bible

Where does the Bible come from?

The Bible is like a library in that it is a compilation of many books. These books were written over a long period and were gradually brought together to form the present Bible. The initial collection was likely the first five books of the Bible, which are often referred to as the "Torah," meaning God's Law in Hebrew. Additional books were added over time.

The entire Old Testament was completed about four centuries before Jesus' time. Following His ministry, the books of the New Testament were written and subsequently accepted by Christians. Nevertheless, the most important fact about the Bible is that God oversaw its writing and has preserved it to this day.

The Bible isn’t just another ancient book of human wisdom—it is God’s Word, given to us to tell us how we can know God. The Bible says, “For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21). God guided the authors as they wrote the different books.

What role does the Bible play in your life? It is a means for God to communicate with you through its pages. Are you paying attention to what He is saying? Above all, God wants you to come to know Him by discovering Jesus Christ, who is at the centre of the Bible.

Reading the Bible

The Bible is big—so big that even the greatest scholar will never exhaust its riches. But the Bible isn’t just for preachers and scholars! God wants to speak to you through His Word, and no matter who you are, the Bible can come alive to you. You may never understand everything in the Bible, but you can understand something. Samuel was still a boy, but God answered his simple prayer: “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:9).

Today, many people keep the Bible a closed book. One reason is because we don’t realise how much we need it. If I suggested that you stop eating for a few months, you’d ignore me—and rightly so. We need food in order to survive, and without food we’ll grow weak and eventually die. Yet many Christians are spiritually starved and weak because they ignore the spiritual “food” God has provided in the Bible. The Bible is not an option; it is a necessity. You cannot grow spiritually strong without it. Job said, “I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread” (Job 23:12). Is the Bible this important to you?

So how can you discover the Bible’s message? How can the Bible become part of your life?

Learn the Bible from others. God has given some people a special gift to understand the Bible and teach it to others. The Bible says that “God has placed in the church … teachers” (1 Corinthians 12:28). Listen carefully when your pastor preaches from the Bible. In addition, seek out a Bible class in your church or community where the Bible is faithfully taught. Also check your local Christian radio station (if you live in a country that permits religious broadcasting); some of today’s most gifted Bible teachers are on radio. Investigate spending part of your vacation at a conference centre devoted to Bible teaching. Many people find daily devotional books based on the Bible helpful. Although they may examine only a verse or two each day, God can use them to encourage you.

One of the most significant spiritual movements in recent decades has been the explosion in life group Bible studies. All over the world, Christians are coming together to read the Bible and share their insights. The Bible says, “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another” (Colossians 3:16). Jesus promised, “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20, NKJV).

Learn the Bible on your own. If you have never read the Bible, or you started reading it once but got bogged down, let me encourage you to discover the Bible for yourself. How can you do this?

First, come to the Bible joyfully. Bible reading shouldn’t be a burden but a joy! I vividly remember the day I received Ruth’s letter saying she had decided to accept my proposal for marriage. I probably read and reread it dozens of times that day. God wants to talk with us through His Word; in fact, it is His “love letter” to us. Why shouldn’t we come to it joyfully?

Then come to the Bible prayerfully and expectantly. Ask God to speak to you through its pages and expect Him to do so. This doesn’t mean that every time we open the Bible we’ll find something new; God may be underlining truths we already know. But let the psalmist’s prayer become yours: “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law” (Psalm 119:18).

In addition, come to the Bible systematically. Some people open their Bibles almost at random or simply reread passages they already know. While God can certainly speak to us through any passage, we also need to remember that the Bible wasn’t written [to be read] that way.

Get in the habit of reading the Bible the way it was written: one book at a time. I often suggest people begin by reading through one of the Gospels, such as John, perhaps only a few paragraphs at a time. Later you can read Acts, which tells of the early Christians, or some of the New Testament letters. Psalms in the Old Testament—the “hymnbook” of the Bible—has blessed generations of believers, while Proverbs gives practical guidance for daily living. Psalms teaches us how to relate to God, and Proverbs teaches us how to relate to others.

Also come to the Bible thoughtfully. In other words, be sure you understand what you are reading. Several years ago, a woman told me that her grandmother reads a chapter of the Bible every day. Then she added, “But whenever I ask her what she’s just read, she can’t tell me. Reading the Bible is just a habit that doesn’t seem to make any impression on her.”

Focus on what the passage is really saying. What is happening in it? What is its central point or primary teaching? What does it say about God, or about Jesus, or about someone’s response to God?

Finally, come to the Bible obediently. James wrote, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22). Is God pointing out a truth you should believe or something you should do? Is He revealing a sin for which you need to repent? Remember: God never leads us to do anything that is contrary to His Word. But the opposite is also true: God always leads us to do everything that is in agreement with His Word. God gave the Bible to us because He wants us to know Him and love Him and serve Him. Most of all, He gave it to us so we can become more like Christ. Make the Bible part of your life—beginning today.

Reading and Understanding the Bible

The Bible is God’s Word to us. It’s His message of love and forgiveness. The Bible answers the question, what is eternal life? It can also answer questions you have as you strive to live a life that pleases Him. That’s why Christians should try to read the Bible daily.

Here are some suggestions:

• First, read one chapter from the Gospel of John each day. This will help you understand the basics of the Gospel. (Books of the Bible are typically listed in the front of the Bible.)

• Second, read Acts, the exciting story of how Jesus Christ’s first disciples told others about how He died and rose again.

• Third, read the letters that Christ’s apostles wrote to His first followers—all who were new in their faith. These letters are the book of Romans through the book of 3 John.

• Fourth, go back and read one of the other three gospels: Matthew, Mark or Luke.

You might not understand everything you read in the Bible, but don’t let that discourage you. The Bible tells us what God is like and offers us wisdom. As you read it, ask yourself:

• What does this passage mean?

• What is God saying to me in this passage?

• How can I apply this to my own life?

As you read your Bible regularly, you will begin to understand more of it. Here are 4 more ways to get more out of your reading:

1. Read the Psalms, the Old Testament book of worship, to enrich your devotion to God.

2. Read Proverbs to gain wisdom and strengthen your relationship with others.

3. Pray for understanding. The Holy Spirit can help you, and you will begin to see life from God’s perspective.

4. Talk to others about what you’re learning. Try to attend a small group Bible study.

Holy Spirit

It is impossible to understand the Bible, Christian living, the structure of the church or our own relationship with God without understanding the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is not an “it.” The Holy Spirit is a person. The Bible says that He is not something. He is Someone. He is God.

To understand this better, let’s talk about the Trinity. There are three persons in the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Christians do not worship multiple gods. God the Son, or Jesus Christ, was God in human form. The Holy Spirit lives inside us when we accept Christ and helps us grow closer to God.

The moment we receive Christ as Savior, the Holy Spirit comes to live in our hearts. The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit is all-powerful and present everywhere. The Holy Spirit teaches us and takes us deeper into God’s truth as we go along in our Christian life. There is not a person anywhere who can be a Christian without the Holy Spirit. There is not a person who can follow Christ without the help of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit sees everything that goes on. He knows what goes on in our hearts. He knows what goes on in our minds. Nothing is hidden from Him.

The Holy Spirit is also called holy. The Bible says, “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). One of the Holy Spirit’s ministries is to help make us holy—to become more like Christ.

How does the Holy Spirit work?
First, the Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin. “And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment” (John 16:8, NKJV). He uses a mother’s prayers, or a tragic experience, or a pastor’s sermon, or some other experience to convict us of sin and of our need to give our lives to Jesus Christ. He points to us and says, “You are a sinner. You need to repent.”

We don’t like to hear that, but without conviction, we could never have our sins forgiven, we could never be saved and we could never go to Heaven.

Second, the Holy Spirit allows us to start a new life. The Bible says that we are dead in our sins (Ephesians 2:1). Our spirit within us, made in the image of God, is dead toward God. Mankind needs life. Yet, we have all sinned and, therefore, are dead toward God. The Holy Spirit, however, gives us new life in Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “No one can see the Kingdom of God unless they are born again”(John 3:3).

But how is someone born again? What does that mean? The Holy Spirit is the one who makes you born again; it is a supernatural act. It isn’t the good things we’ve done, but God’s mercy through the Holy Spirit that saves us (Titus 3:5). All we have to do is accept the free gift of salvation by accepting Christ.

Third, the Holy Spirit lives in us. As you read this, you may realise that you are spiritually dead, but God says, “I will put my Spirit in you. I will come to live in you.” That’s the reason we should never take anything unclean into our bodies. That’s the reason we should discipline our bodies. God loves your body. He doesn’t want it polluted by fleshly lusts or harmful substances. The Bible says, “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?” (1 Corinthians 3:16).

Fourth, The Holy Spirit gives you the power to serve Christ. “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses” (Acts 1:8). Christ is coming back again, and He is ready to come into your heart by the Holy Spirit and make you a new person. Will you accept Christ as your Saviour?

Baptism

Going public with your faith!

At All Nations Community Church, we believe in helping people find their way back to God, and baptism is an especially important part of the journey of a Christ-follower. We offer baptism classes for all ages as well as baptism events throughout the year.

In Jesus’ own words, being disciples is something that involves baptism. Jesus led by example by being baptised and then He asked His followers to do the same. Jesus then challenged His followers with this mission:

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

— Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)

HERE'S WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

1. Step One: Sign up

   Fill out our baptism registration form to tell us about yourself.

2. Step Two: Pick a date

   A member of our staff will reach out to you with available dates.

3. Step Three: Get prepared

   We will ask you to join a baptism class and then we will guide you as you prepare to share your story

4. Step Four: Get baptised

   We will all celebrate together as you take this next step in your faith.

NOT SURE BAPTISM IS YOUR NEXT STEP?

We understand that you may have some questions, but we don't think those should keep you from looking into baptism and eventually taking that step.

What is baptism?

Jesus was baptised and since then his followers have followed His example. Baptism is a way for you to do the same and participate in a common experience with Jesus followers around the world.

Baptism is a way to go public with your faith to show others that you have started a personal relationship with Jesus.

Baptism symbolises the new life you began when you started following Jesus. It symbolises your old life dying (going under the water) and your new life (coming out of the water).

Where can I be baptised?

You can be baptised during one of our services on a Sunday.

What about infant baptism/christening?

Some churches choose to christen or baptise infants. While we recognise the right of other churches to practice infant baptism, we understand Scripture to teach that only people who have made the decision to follow Jesus should be baptised. Baptism does not make you a Christian. It shows that you already are one.

Register For Our Next Water Baptism Class

Listen to a baptism message

How To Know Jesus

Step 1 – God’s Purpose: Peace and Life

God loves you and wants you to experience peace and eternal life.

The Bible says:

"We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 5:1

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

"I [Jesus] have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." John 10:10

What keeps us from having the life God planned for us?

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Step 2 – The Problem: Our Separation from God

God created us in His image. He gave us a will and the freedom of choice; we choose to disobey Him and go our own way—which is called sin. This separates us from God.

The Bible says:

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 6:23

Our choice to sin separates us from God. People have tried many ways to bridge this gap between themselves and God.

The Bible says:

"There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death." Proverbs 14:12

"But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear." Isaiah 59:2

No bridge reaches God... except one.

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Step 3 – God’s Bridge: The Cross

Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose from the grave.

When He did He paid the penalty for our sin and bridged the gap between us and God.

The Bible says:

"For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus." 1 Timothy 2:5

"For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God." 1 Peter 3:18

God has provided the only way back to Him. You must make a choice.

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Step 4 – Our Response: Receive Christ

We must trust and receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

The Bible says:

"Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." John 1:12

"If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9

Which side are you on? The side with Christ or without Him?Here is how you can accept Christ into your life:

• Admit your need. (I am a sinner)

• Be willing to turn from your sins. (Repent)

• Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the cross and rose from the grave. (Be saved by faith)

• Through prayer, invite Jesus Christ to control your life through the Holy Spirit. (Receive him as Lord and Savior)

We suggest a prayer like this one:

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"Dear God, I know I’m a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died for my sin and that you raised Him to life. I want to trust Him as my Savior and follow Him as Lord, from this day forward. Guide my life and help me to do your will. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen."

Did you pray this prayer?