November Prayer/Praises and Special Dates
Click the link above to download a PDF of prayer requests and praises as well as the birthdays and anniversaries for November. Note: You will need to login to SecureCloud in order to view this document. Once you have logged in, click on Files, Shared, then Headquarter Happenings, then scroll to the month you would like to view. This step protects people with WWNTBM in restricted access fields.
Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; 2 Corinthians 8:1
As we teach or preach from this passage, we often place substantial emphasis on the “churches of Macedonia.” While the heart and activity of these churches are undoubtedly commendable, we cannot ignore the actual statement of verse one. The first verse clearly states what and to whom the Spirit of God is calling attention.
2 Corinthians 8:1 says, “Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia.” The actual emphasis here is on the “grace of God.” Some call our Faith Promise Giving, Grace Giving.
God made the apostle and others aware of the dire need of the people. God led the apostle and leaders to make a collection to help meet those needs. God was looking for channels to supply those needs.
We see the first step in preparing these “channels” in verse five. Here the believers “first gave their own selves.” By giving themselves, they became a vessel of the Lord—a vessel He could use as a channel. There is a great blessing to those who give themselves.
The people were in deep poverty and “in a great trial of affliction” in verse two. Although challenged with issues, they experienced abundant joy and an earnest desire to be used of God to provide for the needs at hand. All of this is to the glory of the grace of God. God does not rebuke them for not having the supply, nor does He ask them to provide the resources. He merely wants channels through which He can supply His resources.
God’s supply of resources did not, and never will be lacking. He just wanted and still wants vessels to be channels through which He might supply the needs of the souls of people. This text is dealing primarily with financial needs, but He still desires channels to carry the gospel to the lost and to serve Him by delivering His vast supply to the needs of the world.
Our first step is to do as the Macedonians did: give ourselves and the lack of resources to God. His grace can not only change the channel, but He can also use that channel to supply His resources where needed. The passage applies not only to financial needs but also to the significant spiritual needs of the world. Yea, millions are in dire need of the gospel. As His channels, we are to take the Word and the good grace of God to them.
Is your life a channel of blessing?
Is the love of God flowing through you?
Are you telling the lost of the Savior?
Are you ready His service to do?
Make me a channel of blessing today,
Make me a channel of blessing, I pray;
My life possessing, my service blessing,
Make me a channel of blessing today.
Is your life a channel of blessing?
Are you burdened for those that are lost?
Have you urged upon those who are straying,
The Savior who died on the cross?
We cannot be channels of blessing
If our lives are not free from all sin;
We will barriers be and a hindrance
To those we are trying to win.
Harper G. Smith 1903
If Bro. Hurst’s article is an encouragement to you, please email him to let him know. You may also visit ebarnabas.org to make an appointment with him for encouragement.
Would you consider this prayer? “Let my position be biblical and my disposition be spiritual.” It would appear that, at times, our position is hidden behind our disposition. Perhaps we are frustrated by those who do not seem to see our biblical interpretation clearly. Could it be that our disposition is screaming so loudly that our position is ignored?
A biblical position should stand on its own. We generally argue over things that we are not really sure to be factual. We are to study the Scriptures sufficiently so that God is pleased with our interpretation. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (II Timothy 2:15). If God approves, the argument is settled. Getting louder is no substitute for studying the subject to its correct conclusion.
A spiritual disposition displays confidence. Oftentimes things are given in such a way that, even though I agree with the position, I find it hard to concur because of the unChristlike disposition. I have observed this in preaching, but even more so on Facebook. If our message is going to be rejected, let us make sure that it is the truth that they are arguing with and not our sour spirit. Admittedly, there are times that it seems not to be a sour spirit as much as it is arrogance. If we arrive at the correct biblical position, it is only because of the goodness of the Holy Spirit to illuminate our understanding of His Word. There is nothing to be arrogant about in that.
James gives adequate instructions concerning the tongue. May our Lord give us the wisdom to use it in a way that would please Him rather than giving satisfaction to the flesh. “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” (Psalms 19:14).
I pray that the Lord will bless you with a profitable ministry this month to His glory.
In His Service,
Danny A. Whetstone
If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.
November 1 – September Financial Reports will be due.
November 11 – Most US Banks will be closed for Veterans Day.
November 22 – Please contact us by this date via Signal if you will need funds in your account before Thanksgiving.
November 28-29 – The Office will be closed in celebration of Thanksgiving.
December 1 – October Financial Reports will be due.
December 9 – All prayer letters should be submitted to our staff in order for your recipients to get them before Christmas.
December 18 – Please contact us by this date via Signal if you will need funds in your account before Christmas or the end of the year.
December 23-27 – The Office will be closed in celebration of Christmas.
January 1 – November Financial Reports will be due.
January 9 – Missionaries will receive their statements of December Support Received.
January 13 – All missionaries will receive their final December support on this day, regardless of the day they normally receive support.
January 15 – December Financial Reports will be due, along with any remaining receipts or financial paperwork for 2019.
January 31 – 1099 Forms and other tax documentation for the 2019 year will be available.
During a typical month, we close the books on the 25th, and any checks received after that date are posted to the following month. Due to receipting requirements, we cannot do this in the month of December. As a result, please be aware that your December support total may be higher than normal, while your January support total may be lower than normal. Please be sure to plan ahead for this!
Please prepare now to ensure that your year-end financial reports are submitted on time. October reports are due December 1, November reports are due January 1, and December reports are due January 15. If it is possible for you to submit reports before the due dates, that would greatly assistant our staff. Please note, it is fine to submit a report without waiting for the Line 1 income figure. We can add that for you as needed. Reports should be submitted to [email protected]. Please be sure to include all receipts for expenses $75 and over at the same time you submit your report so there are no delays in processing. Thank you for your help in these areas.
World Wide maintains an office in Canada, to assist our missionaries in raising funds from Canadian donors. We are grateful for Ernie and Darlene Bauserman, who have managed this office for many years. The address has recently changed. Please be sure to update this in your records.
WWNTBM of Canada
PO Box 116
Elliot Lake, ON P5A 2J6
Canada
If you will be visiting churches in Canada, please be aware there are special requirements for accountability of the funds, to ensure you do not have to pay taxes in both countries. Contact our office if you have any questions.
PBC Graphics is a local church design option for new missionaries and veteran missionaries to have prayer cards that look sharp and get the message of their mission across. Call 641-226-0490 or email [email protected] for more information.
Did you know? World Wide hosts a special resource blog, Missions.Today. Its purpose is to provide a place for missionaries to exchange resources and tips about life on the field and deputation. We encourage missionaries to submit suggestions and to make this resource available to other missionaries with whom you come in contact.
The following recordings were recently published on uplift.wwntbm.com. You may access the site by entering the username: wwntbm and the password: gospel. These recordings for our missions family contain the Uplift calls in their entirety, including prayer requests and challenges to our missionaries. We hope they will encourage your heart.
The Spiritual Life of a Missionary/Pastor by Freeman Weems
Our Hope by Elwood Hurst
None of These Things Move Me by Mike Smith
A Token for Good by Gabe Eiben
Deputation Obstacles by Jeremy Lockhart
Spiritual Discouragement by Tim Germano
Prayer Letter Tips by Duey Whitfield
No Excuses! by Markie Bullock
Luke 9:23-25
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?
The instructions given here come from the highest authority, Jesus Christ. It is vital to heed these instructions. The little word “if” indicates a possibility one would not follow Him. In fact, many do not follow Him. The high cost of a temporary gain produces a loss of life as a “castaway.” The right choice is to follow Jesus. God gives us guidance on how.
1. Deny self. Deny the personal gain and the temporary attractions of this world. We must disregard our desires of the flesh. Our desire should be to please our Savior. Our task may not be pleasant, or it may be very difficult. It could be to unpleasant or unfriendly people. Whatever or wherever the task, Jesus Christ knows all about the possibilities and the problems. He wants a submitted and committed follower – faithful.
2. Deliberate act. Often the statement of cross-bearing is misunderstood. Some people view this act as an adverse circumstance or uncontrollable hardship. The instruction here is to “take up his cross.” The follower deliberately and voluntarily picks up the cross in this step. The cross is not a very pleasant object to pick up and carry as Jesus did with His cross. But He did it voluntarily also. The system and desire to fulfill a task may cost one temporarily, but the benefits extend to eternity.
3. Daily process. The Christian life of service is not like a commitment to an eight-hour job. It is not a “try and quit if you do not like it” commitment. Service is a daily process in every waking hour for as long as we live. It is a commitment to follow His will and a responsibility to the instructions of our Savior. We must carry out the directions as He asks. This commitment may be a challenging one. But it is the process of following in the footsteps of our Savior.
4. Directed activity. Jesus does not give the assignment and then leave us to our own direction and schedule. Thankfully, He stays with us every step and every stage of our lives. His commission to go into all the world accompanies the promise of His presence unto the end of the world. The potential problem is that we get the instructions, pick up the cross, and take it the way we want or think best. God, the Holy Spirit, and Jesus Christ not only provide the tasks for us but the specific instructions: the precious Word of God and the presence of the Savior.
5. Delightful finish. Even if this commitment causes us to lose the favor and riches of this world, the great gain is an eternal reward far better than any temporary increase on the earth. It is better to give our lives for the sake of Christ and save others than to gain all the wealth of the world and lose our souls.
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
If Bro. Hurst’s article is an encouragement to you, please email him to let him know. You may also visit ebarnabas.org to make an appointment with him for encouragement.
I have heard that the difference between minor surgery and major surgery is whether or not it is happening to you! We understand that every health issue is important, and prayer requests should be taken seriously when someone cares enough to ask us to pray. Sometimes a need is more significant than others. I do not wish to minimize anyone’s need as I mention these two that are dear to my heart.
Brother John O’Malley is home from heart bypass surgery. It is of the Lord’s mercies that the doctors were able to find his problem and deal with it expeditiously. We know that healthcare in America is very costly; however, I want to thank the Lord that it is available in situations like this one. Brother O’Malley has been used of the Lord at WWNTBM for more than twenty-six years, and we all have been touched by his ministry. Please continue to pray for him as he recuperates at home.
Brother Russell Bell was recently released from the hospital following an episode of excessive bleeding. We give praise to our Lord that he made it to the hospital in time for them to help him. However, in that process, the doctor discovered that he has liver cancer. Brother Bell will see a specialist on October 9. Please pray that the doctor will be able to treat this cancer and prolong Brother Bell’s ministry on into the future. Preacher Bell would be the first to admit that our Lord has been gracious to give him life and ministry over the years. I do not wish to be selfish, but I pray that the Lord would see fit to raise this man of God one more time.
We serve a God Who can do beyond anything that we are capable of asking. We serve a God Who answers the fervent prayers of His people. We serve a God Who has invited us to His throne of grace when we have a need. Now let’s take time to approach Him for these two men and the families that stand with them.
I trust that our Lord will protect you from all harm and bless you with good health as you continue to serve Him faithfully. Many are counting on you today, and many are expecting you in the future. May we be prepared in every way possible to be what they need.
In His Service,
Danny A. Whetstone
If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.
October Prayer/Praises and Special Dates
Click the link above to download a PDF of prayer requests and praises as well as the birthdays and anniversaries for October. Note: You will need to login to SecureCloud in order to view this document. Once you have logged in, click on Files, Shared, then Headquarter Happenings, then scroll to the month you would like to view. This step protects people with WWNTBM in restricted access fields.
October 14 – Most US Banks will be closed for Columbus Day.
November 1 – September Financial Reports will be due.
November 11 – Most US Banks will be closed for Veterans Day.
November 22 – Please contact us by this date via Signal if you will need funds in your account before Thanksgiving.
November 28-29 – The Office will be closed in celebration of Thanksgiving.
December 1 – October Financial Reports will be due.
December 9 – All prayer letters should be submitted to our staff in order for your recipients to get them before Christmas.
December 18 – Please contact us by this date via Signal if you will need funds in your account before Christmas or the end of the year.
December 23-27 – The Office will be closed in celebration of Christmas.
January 1 – November Financial Reports will be due.
January 9 – Missionaries will receive their statements of December Support Received.
January 13 – All missionaries will receive their final December support on this day, regardless of the day they normally receive support.
January 15 – December Financial Reports will be due, along with any remaining receipts or financial paperwork for 2019.
January 31 – 1099 Forms and other tax documentation for the 2019 year will be available.
As we enter the last quarter of the year, thoughts turn to year-end tax procedures. Many people begin thinking of last-minute deductions that will affect them. If you anticipate making large ministry purchases and you desire the purchase to be a deduction in the year 2019, you may wish to make the purchase by the end of November. Because of the way our 1099s are calculated, December expenses are “reimbursed” out of January income, so the tax benefit on your 1099 would actually be considered a 2020 reimbursement. Regardless of when the purchase is made, you will still receive a tax benefit. However, we wanted you to be aware of these deadlines as you plan your expenses over the next few months.
Please keep in mind the due dates for financial reports. With the holidays approaching it is easy to let these slip past, but our CPA has encouraged us we need to keep to the due dates, per IRS regulations. The best situation is for you to report all ministry expenses through WW, thus providing the fullest tax benefit. With the change to 1099s this year, if you do not submit a MFR on time, you can still submit it on your personal taxes on a Schedule C. If you are not currently submitting financial reports we suggest you consider this option. If you have questions about this, please contact Naomi Torberson.
Looking for an alternative to a hotel? Check out Airbnb.com. Depending on the location and length of time, this may be cheaper than a hotel, and can include benefits such as a fully-equipped kitchen.
Lucy Charlotte Stelzig was born on October 8. She weighed 7 pounds 13 ounces and was 20 inches long. Lucy is the second daughter of Nick and Lindsey Stelzig, who are church planters in the Boston, MA area. The Stelzigs have two older children: Gabe (4) and Ellie (2). Pray for them as they begin a new church plant in the coming months.
The following recordings were recently published on uplift.wwntbm.com. You may access the site by entering the username: wwntbm and the password: gospel. These recordings for our missions family contain the Uplift calls in their entirety, including prayer requests and challenges to our missionaries. We hope they will encourage your heart.
Be Filled with the Spirit by David Price
Social Media by John O’Malley
Man-Pleaser or God-Pleaser? by Jeremy Lockhart
Visiting Small Churches by Gene Krachenfels
Woe, Low, Go by Daniel Fetter
A Proper View of God by John O’Malley
They Have Been with Jesus by Ernie Wyrick
Be Authentic! by Bro. Steven
Duty and Devotion by Stanley Cline
Rejoice! by Ernie Wyrick
We would like to recognize several ministry milestones that are being reached during the year 2019. We are grateful for these individuals who continue to serve faithfully.
World Wide New Testament Baptist Missions is approaching fifty years of service to missionary families and their sending churches. We are at a place now where we see missionaries retire from full-time missionary service. The Lord has been so good to send new families for us to minister with in the work of world evangelism. There is no doubt that we stand in great need of young missionaries to carry on the difficult work that is necessary all over the world. However, I would like to express my appreciation to the Lord for permitting us to still have those who have labored long in this ministry.
I will not attempt to bring to your attention all those who have given of themselves in this work, but I am most grateful that the man whom God used to see this work born is still the Chairman of the Board. Pastor Bill Wingard has been the heart of this work, and our Lord has blessed our mission by sustaining him through the years. In the wisdom of God, we are aware that the younger is to learn from the older. It is certainly true that the energy resides in the younger, but the wisdom abides in those who have long served the Lord through various circumstances of life and ministry.
Men like Brother Russell Bell were there at the beginning with Pastor Wingard. Pastor Clyde Eborn was also involved in the beginning stages of this work. We have indeed learned much since those early days. So much that we have learned, and so many troubles that we avoided have been because these men have stayed with us through good and bad. Make no mistake about it: we need these men more than ever before. This mission has operated on biblical principles that these men, and many others like them, have kept before us through the years.
We enjoy the memories of Mrs. Smithwick in a closet with a journal keeping the records for the mission. They were humble beginnings, but none of this operation would be here today if these faithful servants had not taken the first steps to see it come alive. There have been many who have invested their energies in this work. There have been hundreds of hours spent in board meetings attempting to steer the ministry in such a direction that God would be honored. I am so proud of the work being accomplished by our mission today, and I am convinced that it will only get better if we remember that we are building on a very good foundation given to us by faithful servants of the Lord.
In His Service,
Danny A. Whetstone
If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. Whetstone here to let him know.
