"While he was coming,
the demon dashed him to the ground in convulsions. But Jesus rebuked the unclean
spirit, healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. And all were astounded
at the greatness of God!" (Luke 9:42-43)
Last night at the men's
meeting at the Elim Church in Wells, southern England, a father filled with
gratitude for the greatness of God handed me a note from his son. It said,
"Thank you for praying for me this morning. (It) made me feel good." Praise
God!
He was a young boy,
struggling with panic and fear about being bullied at school. He was too fearful
to come up for prayer, so we went to him. He wasn't ever able to turn his face
toward us from his father's side, as we prayed for him to know the safety and
security of the Father's embrace. But Your perfect love began to cast out all
his fear (1 John 4:18). Then You began to replace his stress, anxieties, and
fears with Your power and love and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). Thank You, Lord
Jesus! We are "astounded at the greatness of God!"
As he goes to school
today, Father, fill him with Your peace and shelter him under the mighty right
hand of Your protection. No matter what foes he may face, remind him that the
One who stands firm within him is greater than the one who is in the world (1
John 4:4). I pray this for all the children who face these struggles at school.
And I pray this same peace for all who may have to face the taunting and torment
of those who need to know the love of God in Jesus Christ. Like Stephen, whose
faith began to change the heart of Saul, may faith arise in the face of fear to
begin to bring conviction and repentance to hearts of the tormenters (Acts
7:54-60). In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Be
encouraged today! In the Love of Jesus, Tommy Hays
Friends,
we've had a very intense but wonderful few days of ministry in a Spiritual
Renewal meeting near Swansea in south Wales, then at the Elim Church in Wells in
southern England with a women's meeting, a men's meeting, and Sunday worship.
The Holy Spirit has been moving mightily with salvation, healing, deliverance,
and prophetic ministry. Thank you so much for your prayers for us! We couldn't
carry this message of hope and the healing love of God at home and abroad
without our wonderful prayer covering.
Sylvia
and I have a day off today in Wells, before catching our train tomorrow for the
airport in Manchester and a very early flight home the next day. We've said our
goodbye's to Heather, Bob, and Pedr Butler of Angelsey, north Wales, who have
been so wonderful to host us and arrange all these meetings for us. Please keep
them in your prayers as well, and you will be in ours'. God bless
you!
Tommy
& Sylvia Hays