KASHMIR
Below are the Kashmir prayer updates since the 1st of August 2021. April 29 Sarah, Kashmir Shalom everyone 🕊
By the grace of God and by the prayer of all my both daughters got admission in same school. I thank everyone for their prayers. April 29 Sarah, Kashmir Kindly keep my mom in your precious prayers as she slipped and had a plaster. By God’s grace she is fine now. April 27 Pastor Peter, Kashmir
What a great message
Subject: Value
JRD Tata had a friend who used to say that he misplaces and loses his pen very often.
He will use only very cheap pens so that he need not worry about losing them. He was worried about carelessness habit.
JRD suggested to him to buy the costliest pen he could afford and see what happens. He did that and purchased a 22 carat gold Cross pen. After nearly six months JRD met him and asked him if he continues to misplace his pen.
His friend said that he is very careful about his costly pen and he is surprised how he has changed!
JRD explained to him that the value of the pen made the difference and there was nothing wrong with him as a person!
This is what happens in our life.
We are careful with things which we value most.
* If we value our health, we will be careful about what and how we eat;
* if we value our friends, we will treat them with respect;
* if we value money, we will be careful while spending;
* if we value our time, we will not waste it.
*if we value relationship we will not break it.
Care is a basic trait all of us have, we know when to be careful!
Carelessness only shows what we don’t value……
Have a wonderful n careful life…
Good morning 
April 24 Pastor Peter, Kashmir
Greetings from Kashmir!!
As the bible tells us about the final words of many great men of God. In Joshua 24, we see Joshua’s final speech with the Israelites. After a brief recapitulation of what the Lord has done to the Israelites, Joshua challenged the people to serve the Lord. At that time, Israelites were living in the promised land, which God won for them. They did not need to go for any wars. They could enjoy the harvest of the land they just received. The promised land was so fertile. As the Lord told, it was “a land flowing with milk and honey.” Thereafter, Israelites would get everything they need. Joshua might have feared that the people may go away from the Lord when they live in prosperity. While challenging the Israelites to serve the Lord, Joshua reaffirmed his commitment to serve the Lord along with his own family. When people responded by saying “we too will serve the Lord, because he is our God” (v.18), Joshua did not let them go immediately. Rather, he reminded them about who God was. Thus, Joshua led the Israelites to a renewal of their commitment to serve the Lord. Because Israelites’ possession of the promised land was an act of God. For Joshua, Israelites were to decide on whom they would serve. We too need the same commitment to serve the Lord.
Generally, people do not seek God desperately all the time, as they seek him in their times of need. I should remember God even when I have everything that I need. I must serve the Lord faithfully, at all times. My God is the greatest blessing than all that I may have on this earth. So, I will serve the Lord.
Sorry for delay in bills and reports as we’re so busy with the meetings.
The great Blessings were tool kits and seminars.
Now onwards need to focus on pending projects, as man of God Martin Luther King said in a beautiful song that we shall overcome one day.
We are seeing much fruits in our area.
With love
Pastor Peter
Dear sister and brother in Christ,
Due to lack of electronic gadgets we fail to send reports on time, we need to go to computer centre to do the work, that too on working hours and days. Pray that God soon hear our prayers and provide everything we need for his kingdom.
Thanks April 18 Pastor Peter, Kashmir I need to realize that there is a need for more workers to collect the harvest. Jesus wants me to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send more workers. Praying for Christian missions, and praying for the souls to be saved and to be gathered in the Church are important things to me. When I pray for the harvest, I should be ready to do what the Lord asks me, instead of finding easy alternatives. When I obey, I will see great things in and through my life. Sarah, Kashmir Kindly keep my younger daughter for her admission in school as she wasn’t shortlist for the new admission. May God do the miracle and hear our prayers. Thanks April 12 Sarah, Kashmir Dear brother and Sister,
Greetings from Kashmir!!!
It is my immense pleasure to inform that from 3rd April we have started Sunday Church by the grace of God. kindly keep us and all the need we required for the church like chairs, music instruments( Congo), AC in your precious prayers. As this is first time we have started the Church on fixed day and time, so May lord guide us and keep us all safe and provide give protection from all evil. Pray that we may grow more and more in his presence and fulfill his plan in our lives. We are continuing praying for you all and for the HB team. May God bless you!
Thanks By God’s grace today we had 4 baptisms March 19 Sarah, KashmirBy the grace of God today we completed two days of leadership training and did the toolkits distribution in [location] and Jammu. We thanks everyone who contributed their precious prayers to make it successful. Thanks Yesterday in the evening after leadership training and distribution Pastor Peter blood pressure went down and got admitted in hospital. He has been discharged now and feeling better and healthy. Kindly keep him in your prayers. March 5 Pr. Peter, Kashmir What a Price! What a Savior!Matthew 27:46 About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”).47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.”When Jesus was on the cross, people around him were not able to understand his cry. They might have thought that he was calling the help of Elijah as he was mocked and insulted by the people, soldiers, and the chief priests. Although Christ went through a cruel form of human torture, he did not cry out of body pain. Rather, a momentary separation from God when he bore the sins of all the world must have been more painful than anything else, and that made him cry. The crucifixion of Jesus was a prophetic fulfillment for the salvation of humanity. Jesus, the sinless lamb of God willingly gave himself as the perfect sacrifice to make the way for every person to be redeemed from the clutches of the bondage of sin and to enjoy an eternal relationship with God the Father. It was so unbearable for him. But he had to taste it to set us free from the slavery of the fear of death (Heb.2:14,15).Jesus’ crucifixion says of how much God loves us/me. The cross of Christ reminds us of the price he paid and shows the way for our salvation. Jesus is the source of our eternal salvation. We have no longer a slave to sin, for Christ saved us. We are no longer a slave to fear, we are a child of God. We belong to Jesus. Through Christ, every day we can experience God’s love and show it to otherGod bless youPr. PeterMarch 4th Sarah*, Kashmir Shalom everyone 🕊Greetings from Kashmir!!!! Hope everyone is doing well by God’s grace! Days are going very busy with the purchasing toolkits and planning to do leadership training on 17th march in Jammu and we will start doing distribution for the toolkit, after that we will do distribution of toolkits for Kashmir. By the end of march we will be able to complete our projects. Kindly keep me in your prayers as on 15th march we have certificate ceremony for makeup training girls. And on 16th we will leave for Jammu. Pastor Peter*, Kashmir Director What a Price! What a Savior! Matthew 27:46 About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). 47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.” When Jesus was on the cross, people around him were not able to understand his cry. They might have thought that he was calling the help of Elijah as he was mocked and insulted by the people, soldiers, and the chief priests. Although Christ went through a cruel form of human torture, he did not cry out of body pain. Rather, a momentary separation from God when he bore the sins of all the world must have been more painful than anything else, and that made him cry. The crucifixion of Jesus was a prophetic fulfillment for the salvation of humanity. Jesus, the sinless lamb of God willingly gave himself as the perfect sacrifice to make the way for every person to be redeemed from the clutches of the bondage of sin and to enjoy an eternal relationship with God the Father. It was so unbearable for him. But he had to taste it to set us free from the slavery of the fear of death (Heb.2:14,15). Jesus’ crucifixion says of how much God loves us/me. The cross of Christ reminds us of the price he paid and shows the way for our salvation. Jesus is the source of our eternal salvation. We have no longer a slave to sin, for Christ saved us. We are no longer a slave to fear, we are a child of God. We belong to Jesus. Through Christ, every day we can experience God’s love and show it to other God bless you. February 25th Sarah*, Kashmir IT’S TIME FOR THE PRAYER WARRIORS TO RISE ! The visuals are disturbing & the reality even more devastating. The people of Ukraine need the prayers of Saints from across the globe. Please pray for God’s intervention, Russia’s change of heart, protection of innocent people, medical aid and food to reach the affected, lives to be restored. February 4th Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director Greetings from Kashmir!!!! Hope you are doing well! We are very excited to see what new things 2022 will bring. January 29th Pastor Peter*, Kashmir Director *MORNING MANNA*2022 January 29 *TO DIE IS GAIN**”For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil 1:21)*Here St. Paul considers as gain, a thing which almost every human being considers as loss. When a saint or a good man dies, people generally consider it as a loss, but Paul sees with his spiritual eyes that death is a gain- for him, for heaven, for all the glorified saints, and hence for all of us. St. Paul says, “To me to live is Christ and to die is gain,” but for some people it is the other way round; ” To me to live is self and to die is loss” Their earthly riches, possessions, enjoyments, ambitions, name and fame, will all be lost forever once they die and they do not know whether they have any hope or anything worth rejoicing in, after their death. If death is to become a gain to us, there are things which we need to count as loss, as Paul did ” What things were gain to me, those I counted as loss” (Phil 3:7). The earlier two verses, verses 5 and 6, speak about seven things that Paul counted as loss for Christ. In a sense, these seven things speak about our boastings in the flesh. Only saints who renounce the things of this world and live for Christ, can shout, “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” The things we boast about, including our glorying about our spiritual life, will ultimately bring great loss or disaster to our spiritual life. If you live for yourself, the very word ‘death’ will give you fear, worry, sorrow, anxiety and pain. Dear child of God, have you come to the spiritual state in which you can say from the heart with Paul, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain,” or are you afraid of death? – Morning Manna January 11 Pastor Peter*, Kashmir directorThis is the inevitable consequence of getting stuck in the past. Whether we are looking back at a previous stage of life, or simply looking back at the year before, looking back has repercussions for our lives in the present, and no story captures this peril better than that of Lot’s wife.Her story takes place in Genesis 19, when Lot and his wife have just fled Sodom and Gomorrah. God is about to destroy the two cities, but in His grace, He allows them to escape with specific instructions: “Run for your lives! Don’t look behind you or stop anywhere in the valley” (v. 17). Lot and his family heed this advice and leave the city, which could have been the end of the story. Unfortunately, the sounds of destruction behind them proved too tempting to resist, and Lot’s wife eventually turned to catch a glimpse: Lot’s wife looked back longingly and was turned into a pillar of salt. (v. 26) In all my years of reading this story, the punishment has always seemed rather harsh. After all, if God was destroying an entire city, I would probably want to look! Fire raining down from the sky is not an everyday occurrence. Yet God considers her action so grave that she turns into salt. Why? Because the sin of Lot’s wife was not in her actions, but in her heart. Though she did disobey God by looking back, the word “longingly” indicates that the real problem was the orientation of her soul. She longed for the city she had left behind, and while anyone who has ever left home can relate to this sentiment, Sodom and Gomorrah was no ordinary place. It was a region in which sin ran rampant. The people indulged in excess and blatant immorality, and they completely neglected their poor. The people who lived there were intensely wicked, which means that Lot’s wife was not experiencing your average homesickness for her friends back home. Instead, she was longing for her previously dark and depraved lifestyle. God wanted to make her new, but she liked her old life better. It’s a temptation we all face: longing for something God has asked us to leave behind. Which is why Jesus himself warns about the fallout of our misplaced focus: “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). Once again, this response seems harsh, but only because Jesus wants us to understand the lesson that Lot’s wife learned the hard way: living in the past leads to death in the present. When we hold onto a grudge from the past, it kills a friendship in the present. When we hold onto our guilt from the past, it destroys our freedom in the present. When we hold onto our sins from the past, it corrupts our integrity in the present. Lot’s wife turned into a pillar of salt, not because God is overly judgmental, but because that is what fixating on the past does to us all. Living in the past means almost certain death in the present. It’s a good but chastening reminder as we head into a new year. Yes, make time to reflect and remember and learn from the year behind you, but then, put your hand to the plow, and fix your eyes on Him. This year 2022 is a year of fixing what was left behind.Dear in Christ on 2nd January I came from Kashmir to Jammu city to stay with my family. But Satan is trembling, he wanted to put me in trouble through vehicle accident but he will not touch me we all are safe. Kashmir winter is very harsh but in ending March and we want to do 3 things 1. Bible distribution in team and churches.(outreach)2. Seminars 3. Distribution of tool kits So this is our humble request to kindly Release the funds soon for the projects as we are also preparing projects for years 2022 to 2023.We want to move forward by the grace of God and praying for our HB team may lord Jesus Christ bless all of you who work hard to be kingdom builders .With love and prayersPr. Peter*
January 9
Sarah*, Kashmir Pastor Peter* doesn’t have space for car parking so he parked his car near dental college which is close to his house. But because continue rain in Jammu this wall couldn’t stayed strong and fell down. Many other vehicles got damaged in an accident. There is no way to repair and I don’t think pastor can claim the insurance as it is natural disaster. January 8Sarah*, Kashmir Pastor Peter’s* car is totally damaged when a wall of dental college fell down in Jammu. By God’s grace he is safe. Keep in your precious prayers. Thanks January 6th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director Yes [Covid] increasing fast night lockdown started. Keep in prayers. By the grace of lord Jesus Christ this year we will achieve the goal to plant churches in 10 district’s.Now we need Bible’s. Corona or snow disaster will not stop the word of God. Vacation process is very slow here in Kashmir.Will overcome from the situation.Ok sister stay blessed Sarah*, Kashmir We would like to do the leadership training in the month of ending January or in 1st week of February December 21st: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director Dear prayer partners, As Christmas approaches our thoughts often turn to Mary and Joseph, but imagine how the shepherds must have felt. They were doing their job late one night, like so many other nights, when an angel of the Lord appeared and startled them. But the news he told them was even more surprising: that in a barn in the next village over, the hope of humanity had been born! I’m sure that these shepherds had heard God’s Word read many times in the synagogue. They may have even memorized the messianic prophecies. But they were still surprised to learn that the Messiah had been born. The shepherds had access to God’s Word…but they couldn’t understand it without the angel’s help. The shepherds needed someone to help them understand the meaning of God’s Word. They are not the only ones. This Christmas, you can give the gift of God’s love to people around the world. Your donation will help train international pastors and Christian leaders to understand and effectively communicate God’s message of hope in their communities. Because of your generosity, people across the globe will hear the good news of Christmas! Consider making a special Christmas gift to share the love of Christ. Wrap up your Christmas giving with a gift to Christ church. Merry Christmas and Happy New year 2022 SAFE PLACE TO STAYREAD: Micah 3, 4; Proverbs 18; Revelation 8 Proverbs 18: 10 The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.In ancient times, people who lived in fortified cities were safer than others from enemies’ attacks. Because castles were built with strong walls and storage places so that people could survive if enemies put a siege on them. Even today, when a disaster or natural calamity comes, people would run to safe places to protect themselves. People who are rich and poor, educated and uneducated, regardless of gender, social and economic differences, would seek shelter in a protected place. In Proverbs 18:10, we read that “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower.” The phrase “the name of the Lord” is used only in this verse in Proverbs. The name of the LORD refers to the LORD himself.The name of the LORD reveals God’s nature and qualities. When Moses asked God’s name, God said, “I AM THAT I AM.” It is God’s self-revealing name about his character, trustworthiness, and faithfulness (Exo.3:14,15). Creator God discloses His name to human beings to meet their needs and answer their questions. Knowing the name of the LORD helps us grow in our personal relationship with him. Our relationship with God is a continual and ever-growing relationship in which we know him better every day. The name of the Lord is as strong as the LORD. It is reliable at all times. In times of need, danger, and emergency, we can run to it. The quicker and faster we run to God, the swifter he acts on behalf of us. God welcomes and accepts all who come to him and rescues them. Some people seek God only when they have any problem or need beyond their capacity. We should seek and trust him ALWAYS. Sometimes, the storms, failures, problems, relationship issues, sicknesses, and disasters remind us of the need to have God in our lives. Psalm 20:7-8 reminds us that those who trust God will never fail, but they always “rise up and stand firm.” Do we run away from God or run towards God? Let us examine ourselves: How do we run to the name of the Lord? Let us dwell “in the shelter of the Most High.” “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly” (Col.3:16). “If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent” (Ps.91:9,10)As David sings, “I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” The name of the LORD reminds me who my God is. I worry for nothing because of Who He is and what He is. The great “I AM” lives in me. Jesus gives me all that I need. In Christ, I am a new creation. “The old has gone, the new is he seere!” I must remain in Christ. I should always read, believe, and obey His Word. The more often I run to him, the more I will become like him. Know God, Find PeaceImagine you’re a shepherd in first century Bethlehem. Sheep surround you, but others won’t because of your work, your clothes, and your status.For generations your family has said, “God has promised that it’s going to get better.” But you’re beginning to wonder: “is that really true?” Then one night everything changes. An angel appears and tells you that a Savior has been born.Immanuel, “God with us” has come.One day, this same child will take on the weight of all our wrongdoing by dying on a cross. And because of His sacrifice, we’re invited to live peacefully with God at all times, in all circumstances. So right now, let’s thank Jesus for His sacrifice and the peace we have because of Him. A Prayer for PeaceGod,Even when my life feels chaotic, I can experience Your peace because of what Jesus did on the cross. Thank You for making this possible by sending us Your Son! He has made a way for us to know and experience You.Even when life feels out of control, I can cling to the truth that Your peace isn’t based on my feelings or circumstances—but on Your character and faithfulness.When I don’t feel at peace, please make Your presence known to me. Remind me that You’re in control. Give me Your strength and comfort when the world feels unsafe. Protect my heart and mind from the weight of my feelings and thoughts.Allow me to sense Your presence, and to live with confidence that You are always near. Let my life be an example of Your peace that surpasses understanding.In Jesus’ name, Amen December 16th Peter*, Kashmir In 1971 war between India Pakistan yesterday was 50year on this day celebration and praying with other religious priests. It was (good day) but very cold temperature. December 15th Sarah*, Kashmir Today we have Christmas Event with children and tomorrow with the 10 girls [from makeup school]. Thank you so much for the love and prayers. December 14th: Sarah*, Kashmir Day after tomorrow we are celebrating Christmas with my makeup students. Traditional dress of Kashmir known as pheran (long suite) we are giving in gifts. Keep us in your precious prayers. December 13th: Sarah, Kashmir* The Christ of Christmas: Once again the world celebrates Christmas and we are in the end of year 2021 People fervently pray that the Spirit of Christmas will pervade the entire world. In many parts of the world Christmas carolers will stand outside their neighbors’ doors and sing “Silent Night! Holy Night!” Everyone is busily preparing for the holiday season. Yet, in the midst of this preparation, millions of people miss the real meaning of Christmas. In the midst of the Christmas rush, Christ is oftentimes left out as we forget that it is His birthday we are celebrating. The precise meaning of that first Christmas is clear: God came to earth in human form. The impact of His birth was so great that calendars were torn up, prejudices were laid aside and people began to walk in newness of life. Nearly 2,021 years ago the angel revealed to the wondering and trembling shepherds the glorious news that in the city of David “a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11, NIV). The angel had already announced to Joseph the character of Christ’s Saviorhood: “You are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21, NIV). Israel had looked for One who would deliver them from the bondage of Rome and restore the nation to an even greater glory and prosperity than was enjoyed in the days of King David. They never dreamed that this little Babe in Bethlehem’s manger was the anointed One, the King of kings and the Lord of lords. Only a few devout people living in close communion with God, such as the aged Simeon, saw the spiritual significance of Christ’s birth. Looking into the face of the holy Babe, Simeon saw One who had come to be “a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to [God’s] people Israel” (Luke 2:32, NIV). For long centuries the children of God had walked in the light of the law and the prophets, but all the while they had looked up to heaven and longed to have God step down. In Bethlehem 2,000 years ago, that is just what God did. He became bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh and “made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14, NIV). The Christmas message is this: “God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:19, NIV). But because people were blind to their sins, they saw no beauty in Christ that they should desire Him. They crucified the Christ who yearned to save them from their sins and from the tragic consequences that inevitably followed their rejection of God’s anointed One. The world’s primary need today is the Savior, salvation from sin. Failure to recognize this fact and receive God’s remedy for sin is the reason why mankind has failed to prevent recurring wars and revolutions in the world. Because within the hearts of people is lust for position, power and possessions, the best schemes and endeavors of people will come to naught. Jesus Christ said, “Out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander” (Matthew 15:19, NIV). Until these things are rooted out, the world in a moral and a spiritual sense will go backward rather than forward. Many have preached about the Sermon on the Mount as though that in itself is a sufficient dynamic to bring in a new world order of peace and goodwill among men. All the religions of the world say, “Do good; do good,” but they do not give us the power to do good. One of the failures of many church leaders is their refusal to believe that our deepest problem is sin. We have joined hands with the idealists of the world in trying to bring about social reform without first dealing with the root of the problem, which is sin. Many people have failed to see that the human will is sin-bound, egotistic and in rebellion against the will of God. But the bible says god john 3.16. Now Christmas brings a fresh anointing for our congregation that they may stand firm in the coming year 2022. Happy Christmas from our congregation in Kashmir. November 30th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir We are in the last month of year 2021 and past we look back God was so faithful to us. Now looking forward to hear good news for our jamaat children’s will celebrate Christmas season Thanks November 20th:Pastor Peter*[The situation is] Sometimes worse, sometimes stable. It is going. But praise God we all are safe.
Sarah* Yesterday it was a strike given by local leaders to keep Kashmir closed against civilian killings. November 11th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir Dear Prayer partners in Christ. We greet you in the name of lord Jesus Christ. Sorry for delay of vehicle now the work has completed now this vehicle is working. Thanks for all your efforts helping us in crucial times and word of God ,There is no one like my God, “the One who sits enthroned on high.” He sees me. “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand” (Ps. 40:2). Jesus is my rock and my salvation. God has blessed me in the “heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ” (Eph.1:3). I will count my every blessing and praise God forever. With love and prayers November 7th: Pr. Peter*, Kashmir Is money a root of all evil? Jeremiah 47,48; Psalms 119:1-88; 1 Timothy 6: 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. “Money makes many things” is a popular saying. Some people wrongly think that they can buy anything with money. Some Christians misunderstand money itself as an evil thing. Here, Paul writes against false teachers who are “people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and think that godliness is a means to financial gain” (v.3-5). False teachers have false motives; they will twist the truth and do anything for their gain. It is so with those who go after money, with the love of money. A philosopher says, “Money is a great servant but a bad master.” When money starts to control our lives, when the love of money drives us, it becomes a root of all kinds of evil. John MacArthur explains, “It is hard to imagine a sin that has not been committed for love of money. Such love causes people to indulge themselves, show off, distort justice, take advantage of the poor, lie, cheat, steal, and murder.” In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught us, “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve both God and money” (Mt.6:24). The love of money leads people to material greed. It never allows them to be happy with what they have. Paul says, “Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” In verse 9, Paul gives us a picture of the gradual decline and destruction of a person who goes after wealth. The bible says a greedy person will not inherit the kingdom of God ( 1 Cor.6:10, Eph.5:5). We Christians should flee from ungodliness and pursue what is appropriate for us (v.11). The Bible warns us to flee from idolatry, sexual immorality, love of money, and youthful lusts (1 Cor.6. 18; 10:14; 1 Tim.6:10; 2 Tim.2:22). For us, “godliness with contentment is great gain” (v.6). The Bible teaches against the love of money, not against money. A Christian cannot serve God and money simultaneously. When I go after money, I stop following Christ and living by his word. As a Christian, I must flee from the love of money. I should pursue “righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness,” for they have eternal value. God gives me all that I need, not just money (Ps.23:1). I should remember the God who gives me the ability to produce wealth (Deut.8:18). I should use it wisely to store treasures in heaven (1 Tim.6:17-19). PRAYER: Father God, thank you for giving my daily bread and providing for all my needs according to the richness of your glory. Lord, give me your wisdom to be wise in money matters. Amen. Pr. Peter* October 24th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir Dear Prayer partners in Christ. I have reached on Saturday in Kashmir valley started work of the lord. Keep us in your prayers. October 18th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir Dear Prayer partners in Christ, as the word of God Reminds us in Colossians 1: 9-11, For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience. As Christians, we give special attention to prayers as it helps us to communicate with God. The Bible teaches us a lot about prayer. We read more than 600 prayers in the Bible. In Col.1:9-14, we read one of the powerful prayers of the Bible. When we meet fellow Christians and hear news about them, we promise to pray for them. However, many of us often forget our words and fail to pray for them. After hearing Epaphras’s report about the Colossae church and their love, Paul prays for the church he never met before. Do we pray for the Christians whom we never met before when we hear news about them? Jesus taught us that we should “always pray and not give up” (Luke 18:1). As we continually pray, prayer becomes a part of our lives. When we pray, we usually pray for our life needs. But Jesus’ model prayer encourages us to pray that God’s will be done in our lives. Here, Paul prays for the spiritual intelligence or wisdom to know God’s will. We find the meaning of our lives when we know God’s will. We all need spiritual wisdom not only to discern God’s will but to use our God-given knowledge to do the right things that please God. The Bible says pure wisdom comes from heaven (Jam.3:17); Christ Jesus is our wisdom (1 Cor.1:30). “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (Jam.1:5). Paul prays for practicing the spiritual wisdom in obedience “to live a life worthy of the Lord,” which should be the chief aim in Christian life. “Bearing fruit” and “growing in the knowledge of God” are essential parts of our Christian life. When we remain in Jesus, we bear much fruit (Jn.15:5-8). Finally, Paul prays for the power of God. We all need God’s power to live for his glory, resist any sinful temptations, stand against the devil, be strong in faith when facing opposition, and be holy. Let us ask God to give us spiritual wisdom to understand God’s will, obey his word, and receive his power. PRAYER: “Father God, thank you for reminding us what is important in our spiritual life. Lord, give us your wisdom to seek the right things in Christ and have the right conduct in our life. Amen.” Pray for Kashmir “If my people will humbly pray and turn back to me and stop sinning, then I will answer from heaven” 2 Chron. 7-14 Pray that God will open the eyes of the Kashmiris to see him their creator and to know how great his love for them is. Pray for more workers who have love for the Kashmiri people to be called to the valley. Pray for the leaders of India and Pakistan that they might come to a peaceful resolution to this long standing dispute. Pray that Kashmiris on both sides of the line of control. (The dividing line between Pakistan occupied and India occupied Kashmir) would come to know the prince of peace. Pray for Kashmiri youth, who are in depression and involved in smoking and drinking due to unemployment. Pray that Kashmiri youth, disillusioned with the fighting but longing for a cause to believe in would be introduced to the light and hope of Christ. Pray that the many Kashmiri young men and women involved in the freedom struggle would be pursued by the spirit of God and would find salvation in Christ. Pray that Kashmiri believers/seekers would throw off the curse and would look to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spread everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. 2 cor. 3-14. Pray for wisdom to be imparted to the chief minister and his party workers which will give the Kashmiri people hope, a sense for purpose, and a fresh start for the next generation. Pray that political and religious leaders will allow the gospel to go forth, and militant leaders won’t retaliate with violence, but will understand the true freedom. Pray that God would continue to call workers and mission leaders to the valley who will love Kashmiris through valuing and taking joy in the Kashmiri way of life. Pray that strategies would be given to workers and believers on how to cooperate and bless the church with positive values. Pray that God will make open home, listening ears and a generous life be the mark of Christian leaders and Kashmiri followers of Christ. Pray that the Christians believers will walk in boldness and will pursue fellowship with other Christian’s believers so that new cell churches may be started in every villages of Kashmir valley. Pray that Kashmiris will have dreams and visions of Jesus as they search for union with God. Pray that evangelistic materials such as literature and Bibles will be distributed to the Kashmiri people. Pray that Christian leaders/workers would effectively use the skills to share the truth of Christ with others through friendship or social works. Pray that seekers would find hope. Protection and empowerment in their relationship with Jesus. Pray that God would reveal the power of his holy spirit to the Kashmiri Muslims. And bind the effects of these demonic practices. Pray that Kashmiris would come to know that Christ as their true and only mediator to God the father. Pray for the security of those working in Kashmir as many have received multiple threats on their lives. Pray that creative new means of communicating Gods word to the illiterate peoples of the valley would be developed. Pray that the Kashmiri church would become known in the valley as people of joy and of spiritual power as their trust in Christ. Pray that faithful believing families may become the foundation of the Kashmiri church. Pray that believers would experience Gods provision in the midst of economic difficulties. Pray that the Kashmiri church would find creative and faith-filled ways to support one another in difficult times. Pray that the churches around the Globe will pray with burden for Kashmir. Pray that Kashmiri believers who have accepted Christ will have courage to share their faith within the community. Pray the different denominations and Christian organizations serving in the valley would commit to loving and serving one another in humanity. Pray that Christian leaders/pastors/ evangelists would recognize and combat the plans of the enemy, who plots destruction by blaming other, misunderstandings, distrust, and gossip within the Christian community. Pray that seekers from both urban and rural, upper and lower classes will come to know the true and mighty God. Pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit to spark a hunger for spiritual truth with in Kashmir valley. Pray that spirit filled servants of God can share the gospel and teach the Kashmiri people how to love one another union with Christ. Pray that the Kashmiri people will recognize and honor Gods ownership of everything and will respond to all of god’s creation in such a way as to honor him. And pray, that in doing so, many will come to faith in his son Jesus Christ. Pray that God will comfort the hearts of this young generation of Kashmiris and make them generation of healers’ 2nd Cor. 1-4. Pray for the transforming power of the gospel to effect the change in Kashmiri communities through education. Pray for Gods spirit of unity and peace to transform the mind sects of believers calling them one body. Eph. 4:3-4. Pray that God will call Kashmiri who have gifts in singing/ music worshipping in Kashmiri language. Pray that [our group] will work to establish living House churches/street church in every corner of ten Districts/tehsils/pincocdes in Kashmir valley.Yours in his service We are waiting for Bibles as here is need and some given to the needy workers.Pl pray for Bibles October 11th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir Philippians 4:4: Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! When everything goes well, we are happy. However, we become sad when we have failures, relationship issues, rejection, and face undesirable things. Mostly, our happiness is related to the external factors of our lives. “Joy” is a significant theme in Paul’s epistle to Phillippians; Paul used the Greek word for Joy and rejoicing 15 times in this small book. Paul writes about joy throughout the book of Philippians. So, no wonder that this epistle is called a letter of joy. It does not mean that Paul was in a comfortable place where he received everything he wanted. Just in the preceding verses, Paul mentions the disagreement between the two saints. When we read the book of Philippians, we can understand that Paul rejoiced and experienced joy regardless of his circumstances. As we all know, he wrote to Philippians from prison; he had enemies everywhere; he endured trials and afflictions. But none of them could stop him from rejoicing. We may ask ourselves how shall we rejoice in all situations. We know that if our joy depends on our situations, we cannot always rejoice. Paul writes, “Rejoice in the Lord.” Regardless of our life situations, the Bible calls us to rejoice in the Lord, “for the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Neh.8:10). Nothing can separate us from the joy that Jesus gives us. There is joy and eternal pleasures in the presence of the Lord (Ps.16:11). Habakkuk (3:17-18) sings, “Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.” We can rejoice in the Lord at all times. Jesus taught us, and the Apostles experienced the joy unspeakable in their sufferings and trials. Christ is the source of our joy. In Gal.5:22-23, we read that joy is listed among the fruit of the Spirit; there is no law against it. The joy of the Lord never changes depending on any external factors. It comes from within. Whatever our life situations may be, we can rejoice in the Lord always. As Paul says, “I will say it again: Rejoice!” The work has not finished in the month of November we are starting new living house churches/ street churches. Kindly keep all of jamaat in your prayers. Pr. Peter* October 10th: Sarah*, Kashmir co-director We are safe by the grace of God…… pastor Peter* almost reached to his home. I’m staying with my kids here in Kashmir only. Yesterday I went to market to buy vegetables there were lot of security checking…. minorities are requested to avoid going out for few weeks by Governor. October 7th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director From last week here in Kashmir tension is increasing. Keep us in your prayers. “*Non-Local Vendor Shot Dead In Srinagar* Srinagar, Oct 5: Unknown gunmen, suspected to be militants on Tuesday evening shot dead a non-local person in Srinagar, official said. A police officer told GNS that militant fired the person, a roadside vendor, selling Bhelpuri. He died on the spot, he said. Earlier owner of [business] was shot dead by militants near a [nearby park]. *Woman among 2 civilians shot dead in Srinagar* Srinagar, Oct 6: Unknown gunmen on Thursday shot dead principal of a school and a woman teacher in Srinagar, official sources said. They said the gunmen, suspected to be militants, fired upon the duo—leaving them critically injured. They were shifted to a hospital where they were declared brought dead on arrival, the officials told GNS. The latest incident comes a day after three civilians including owner of [business] was shot dead in Srinagar (GNS).” This is becoming more common. “*28 civilians killed in 2021 by militants so far, out of 28, 5 belongs to local Hindu/Sikh community and 2 non-locals* *Police have got all leads in latest target killings, they are being identified: Kashmir Inspector General of Police* Srinagar, October 07: Inspector General of Police Kashmir, on Thursday, said that 28 civilians were killed by militants so far in this year. Inspector General of Police said that total of 28 civilians have been killed by militants this year in 2021. Out of 28, five persons belong to local hindu/sikh community and 2 non local hindu labourers. IGP further said that due to killing of huge numbers of militants of all outfits specially their leaderships, destruction of their support structures and continuous and effective maintenance of law & order, militant handlers across have got frustrated, due to which they have changed their strategy and started targeting unarmed policemen, innocent civilians, politicians. Now innocent civilians from minority communities including women are being targeted. In all such cases militants have been using pistols. These acts are committed by newly recruited militants or those who are about to join militant ranks, he said. In some cases, OGWs have been found directly involved. JKP is working hard and we are identifying all such part-time /hybrid militants and strictest action shall be taken against them. We have received several leads and are working on it. We have also been launching operations along with other security forces. We appeal to general public specially minority communities not to panic. We have been maintaining peace and secured environment and will continue to do so, Inspector General added.” From Pr. Eshin*: Our team has been serving lord in Kashmir from many years. In the year 1989-90 many people belonging to the minorities including christians left Kashmir because the atmosphere in Kashmir had gone from bad to worse but after that there was some progress in good atmosphere again. So we were doing work of God in every nook and corner of Kashmir. But now again there has been a change in the atmosphere in Kashmir and from last ten days militants are active been doing selective killings of minorities in Kashmir. Again there is great terror in Kashmir , so for the time being we have stopped going in far flung areas for preaching. Kindly uphold our people in Kashmir. Pray for returning of good atmosphere again in Kashmir so that we may be able to do God’s work more frequently and successfully. We all are praying for you all. After prayers and discussions Sister Sarah* and Dr. Atraiu* have taken a decision to send me to Jammu for the time being as I’m the only pastor working among locals. We Christians and other minorities have been advised by government to hideout for sometime until the culprits will be captured. Sister Sarah* has closed her parlor and staying inside home with Kids. Our Jamaat are advised to stay at home and pray for the peace return in Kashmir. Kindly keep us in your prayers. Yours in His Ministry,Eshin*Kashmir The decision to go to Jammu is because I could be a target because of the ministry done in the valley. For one week only to stay away that is another cityJammu We Christians may be the next target. This is for precaution. That is I am a know to everyone that I am pastor Peter* and nominated in the valley. Want to stay one week aside as so many agencies are working in the valley of Kashmir. I want to take a leave for one week and make my vehicle fixed in Jammu city. Hence praying situation will become better very soon without the killings of innocent people in the valley. September 29th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir Dear prayer partners in Christ Greetings from Kashmir valley.2 Corinthians 5: 14: For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.We all would agree that love has no boundary. If a person expresses mad love for somebody, people would call him/her crazy. Paul’s enemies must have presented such an accusation against him. (v.13). Paul’s response shows that his actions were selfless. In verse 14, he says the reason for his selfless ministry is “Christ’s love.” Here, although the text may refer to both “our love for Christ” and “the love Christ has for us,” in light of the context, we can understand that it indicates the love of Christ. Paul mentions Christ’s love as the great act of love (see Jn. 3:16; 15:13). Apostle John writes, “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us” (1 Jn.3:16, 4:10). Paul says, “For Christ’s love compels us.” We may ask, would love ever compel anyone? Paul connects Christ’s love with the cross, in which he died for all. A realization of Jesus’ sacrificial, selfless, and unconditional love made Paul say this. Christ’s love gave a conviction to Paul, which compelled, guided him to do what is required of his ministry call. Paul is not saying about doing something motivated by emotions. Agape love refers to an act that a person does with his will. Paul urges every Christian who identifies them with Christ’s death and resurrection ought to live for Christ. Apostle John also echoes similar words that we must live like Christ (1 Jn.2:6; 3:16). “We love because he first loved us” (1 Jn.4:19). The love of Christ compels us to do what God expects from us. And we know that no one or nothing can separate us from this love (Rom.8:39).C.T. Studd once said, “If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him.” When I see the cross and realize the price Christ paid for me, I understand God’s love revealed in Christ. Christ’s love never prompts me to do anything for selfish gains. Instead, it motivates me to do the work of God to help people to find the salvation of God. I will not restrain God’s love. I will live for Christ delightfully with love.Yours in ChristPr. Peter*Kashmir September 25th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir *Corona curfew in Srinagar areas for 10 days..* SRINAGAR – District administration Srinagar has ordered strict corona curfew in some areas of the city for the period of 10 days starting today. As per an order issued by district magistrate Srinagar Dr. Aijaz Asad, there shall be strict Corona Curfew in the areas of Zadibal (SMC) Ward No’s: 55-Hawal, 56-Alamgari Bazar, & 63-Kathi Darwaz) and Lal Bazar (SMC Ward No’s: 59-Lalbazar, 60-Botshah Mohalla, 61-Umer Colony) for a period of 10 days starting from today. September 20th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director Sarah* was not feeling from last 3 days. The actual cost of the used vehicle [mentioned in September 15th update] is 3 lakhs. That will be 4100 in USD @73. Keep in your prayers. Sarah is feeling better now. September 15th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director “As we requested for our vehicle that date of expiry and needed used car to carry out the work of the Lord. So pl. pray that my request may be heard with love and prayers.”
September 14th:
Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director Keep us in your prayers: [from local news] “*Sgr turns COVID hotspot again; Admin mulls curbs* *25 micro-containment zones, curbs to be imposed in these areas; will intensify drive, Covid Violators to face FIR, say officials* Srinagar, Sep 13: At a time when Srinagar is contributing to the half of the daily Covid positive cases in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir from last few weeks, district administration Srinagar has notified around 21 Micro Containment Zone and sealed these areas as per the Covid protocols. The district administration Srinagar is also going to intensify the drive against the Covid violators and may slap FIRs under relevant laws for violation of SoPS. An official from the district administration Srinagar, while speaking to the News Agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, as there is a spike in the Covid positive cases in the district Srinagar from last few weeks, the district administration Srinagar has notified around 21 micro containment zones and have placed the Covid restrictions in those areas to prevent the further spread of the virus. The official said that despite fines, there has been a complacent approach from some sections of the people who do not adhere to the Covid protocols, the district administration Srinagar is going to act tough against the Covid violators and may face FIR. “For marriages, district administration had directed the families to seek necessary permission for the marriage gathering as there is standing CAP on the marriage gatherings and funerals, but many people have stopped to take the permission from the district administration and are resorting to huge gatherings making the entire gathering vulnerable to infection,” the official said, adding that “Starting this week the drive will be intensified, all along the district Srinagar, and wherever the Covid Violators will be found or reported, will be dealt with according to the law.” On being asked about the reopening of schools in the valley along with the district Srinagar he said, district administration Srinagar has sought the data of vaccinated students, teachers and other staff from the institutions which will be verified and mapped with the vaccinated data. “Following the authentication of data, a formal permission will be issued to open the institution in the district”, he added. According to the official figures, district Srinagar has so far reported 73,159 Covid Positive cases, out of which 837 have died while the district’s current active case load is 604. Meanwhile, Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday reported 86 Covid positive cases, out of which 48 are reported from district Srinagar—(KNO)” September 3rd: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir co-director Kashmir is under curfew. From last 2days on Wed night one hardcore leader has died and I have come to [the city] for a week keep us in your prayers. August 31st: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director [From local news source] “*Afghan national held at Lakhanpur entry point in J&K’s Kathua* *Ascertaining his purpose of visit, his passport shows he is a teenager, say officials* Jammu, Aug 31 : Police Tuesday detained an Afghan national at a COVID testing centre established at Jammu and Kashmir’s Lakhanpur entry point in Kathua district. A police official told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), that a 17-year-old boy was detained by police in Lakhanpur near J&K-Punjab border, where restriction on movement of any-person was imposed under COVID guidelines and for testing. Police sources said that one Afghan national, aged about 17, was detained near COVID-19 testing point Lakhanpur after police observed some suspicious movement. “His identity was revealed from his Passport and Visa. He was taken to Lakhanpur Police Station for further enquiry,” the sources said. “Yes, a person from Afghanistan has been detained,” a senior police officer confirmed to KNO, adding that the “The Afghan national has valid travel documents, which shows that he is a teenager. This is why we are not disclosing his identity,” he said adding, “We are verifying the matter to find out how he entered into J&K and purpose etc. It would be premature to draw any conclusion as he is being quizzed.” The detention of Afghan national comes at a time when the Taliban has taken over the full control of the country and when the last US solider has left Afghanistan as part of the US forces’ pull-out from the country. Security forces in Kashmir have already been on a high alert to ensure there is no infiltration of Taliban militants into J&K territory—(KNO)” We are praying for peace in the valley of Kashmir. August 30th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director Our Kashmir has threats Taliban will come to Kashmir also. Yes India has threats but India powerful nationWe salute 13 US soldiers.May God heal the familiesDeep condolences My grandfather did good thing came and settled in Kashmir otherwise today we will be far away from our lord God. Sarah*, Kashmir 2019 school was closed for article 370 n from 2021 for covid People here are very careless for not following govt SOP’s and because of this may be the third wave might come soon. Already Doda district is declared as red zone. So no hope for reopening of schools. August 29th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director Today fellowship at [area in] kashmir. Our Global partner Bansi* is working hard. Fellowship in Christ Church. Retirement of one of our church members. Honouring him for his retirement. August 29th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir director Today fellowship at [area in] kashmir. Our Global partner Bansi* is working hard. Fellowship in Christ Church. Retirement of one of our church members. Honouring him for his retirement. August 14th: Pastor Peter* and Sister Sarah*, Kashmir directors “Dear prayers partners in Christ, I greet in the name of Lord Jesus Christ!!!! When the Lord Jesus Christ was going around on this earth he saw the multitudes with hunger so he moved with compassion. When the people share their sorrows and problems with us, with the same compassion and burdens we pray. When we see back covid-19 second phase it was so hard for the people who were facing problems and tears have flown down from our eyes when we read the letters and heard stories of people writing to us, standing in the gap, sharing their hearts that it was was not easy for them to survive, but because of HB team which is active and working for Kashmir valley, they were helped a lot. God will continue to give this burden in your hearts; may God bless you! Here are some case history of those who have received the food relief.With love and prayers, Pastor Peter* “I am Reyhana* wife of late Satyen*, resident of Srinagar Kashmir. I am a widow, having 5 children. All my children left me after their marriage except my elder daughter who is divorced and having two daughters. It was so hard to survive for me in this COVID 19 second phase, I was so upset that I could not feed my children. There was not a single food left in my house and the lockdown was so hard by the government that was giving me suicidal thoughts, but one of my neighbours told me about the lady Sarah* who was helping in this Covid-19 situation. I called her over phone and within no hours she came with the food items; after long time I was seeing huge food items in my house. I was so happy to receive that which was sufficient for two months. So I thank Sarah and team who came forward and helped me in the time of pain and sorrow. May God bless all of you thank you.” “I am Babir* from Bihar. I am a migrant worker from Gaya district in Bihar, living in Srinagar Kashmir. It was a hard time for all the labourers who came from Bihar India in the Covid-19 pandemic second phase. Again, the government announced lockdown and it was so hard and was a drastic situation here in the valley. Some of our migrant workers were beaten by the police who went for the search of food. But Mr Peter* and team were distributing food items in our area and they heard about us, they distributed food relief to all of us. They were like angels for us, giving us these food items and those food items were sufficient for 2 months. We all enjoyed and are praying for people who came in this pandemic situation. Once again, thank you. May God bless you.” “I am Gojen*, son of late Atul* in Srinagar Kashmir. On April 20th my wife died due to covid-19. It was hard to feed my children in the lockdown as I was not able to go out to earn as I am a daily wager. When my wife died none of my relatives or my neighbours came to see me. People were making jokes and afraid to meet me as Coronavirus is in my house. Some days passed. I was running short of food items. In that situation, an angel came from my street; a team with Mr. Peter* and Sarah*, they came with food items. That was a huge relief and heart touching for me. I received that with great honour and told my case history to them. May God bless them who are helping in the time of pain and sorrow. May God bless you all.” August 6th: Pastor Peter*, Kashmir By the grace of Lord Jesus Christ. I was praying for [a particular] district from last 5 years and today our prayers have been heard. Today we started a house church in [a] valley. Gul* is dedicated to start a house church. Please keep him in your prayers