Council Fire

“They received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” Acts 17:11b (NIV) It was hunting season some years back. My brother-in-law, Frank, and a couple others were hunting on the rivers and lakes near Opaskweyak, Manitoba. It was a good trip and they got a moose, which they skinned and loaded into their boat. As they were finishing up, Frank (a notorious practical joker) noticed an old barrel on the riverbank, over which he threw the hide and placed the head on top of before starting home. (There are parts of a skinned-out moose that you just sometimes leave behind for the coyotes.) The story is told how his friend Pat came around the bend on the river later and saw what he thought was a live moose. He started shooting, and kept on shooting (17 shots!) until he realized it wasn’t real. He just couldn’t figure out why he heard a “ping” every time he hit it! What he saw sure looked real, but it wasn’t! That reminds me of how you and I can believe that something is the truth, when it’s actually fake. Like Frank’s “Moosehead Barrel,” part of it was real, but it sure was not the “Real McCoy”! In today’s world we’re bombarded by many different messages. Some of which are true, some totally false, and some that are a mix of truth and falsehood. It’s these “hybrid” messages that are the hardest to deal with — because they look and sound like the “Real McCoy.” When we encounter a new spiritual teaching, it’s important that we check it out very thoroughly before we decide what to believe. How does it line up with God’s Word, the Bible? Who is the teaching coming from? How will it impact our behavior? Let’s make sure we know what God’s Word says about the teachings we follow. Not everything that sounds like the truth is the “Real McCoy”! — Kene Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!” 1 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV) I was born as a Cree person, and I am very proud of who I am. I was raised by my mom and dad with values and virtues. There has been a lot of talk lately about “finding yourself” in order to be healed. I was never healed because of who I was, but by the saving grace of God the Creator, who through His Son Jesus Christ, saved me from eternal separation from God. God gave me a new living hope and transformed me from within. I let go of the old nature, but I never lost my identity as a Native person when I came to Christ. In the Word of God, I am called a new creation. This verse does not say I am no longer a Cree person who gives up my language and culture, but God starts dealing with the sin in my life and begins the process of sanctification. This will never stop until the day the Lord returns, or I am called home to be with the Lord forever. The above Scripture talks about God giving me a new life because I have put my faith in Jesus Christ as my Savior who died for me on the cross to pay my penalty of sin. Acts 4:12 says “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” God changes my life internally and externally and sets me apart for His glory. When we become new creations, the Holy Spirit leads, guides and teaches us through the Word of God to live our lives holy unto the Lord and sets us apart for His glory to represent Him, and to honor Him with our lives. – Ken Mitsuing   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Proverbs 14:12 (NKJV) Do you know the four directions? Some people do; some people don’t. I think those who don’t know stand a chance of having difficulty getting to their destination, that is, if finding a place depended on knowing which way is which. A man was going to a city 120 miles east and was told to go south until he reached the main highway, then turn left. Then he was told, “You can’t miss it.” He did reach the main highway but turned right instead of left. It wasn’t until he reached another city 100 miles in the opposite direction that he realized that he was now at least 200 miles from where he wanted to go! The Bible talks about a way that people follow, thinking that they are on the right road, but actually they are on the wrong road, away from God. Our verse for today, Proverbs 14:12, says, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” It would be foolish of a person not to try to find out if he is going to heaven or not. After all, eternity is not like a few years in jail, or some kind of detention. A person who does not have the Savior in his life will be away from God forever and ever. Make sure you have Jesus in your life. He is the One who said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6, NKJV). Have you made sure of your eternal destination? Lord, please show me Your Word. Help me listen to what it says so I will know where I am going. Save me, so I will not go in the wrong direction. – Bill Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Don’t lay a hand on the boy!” the angel said. “Do not hurt him in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son.” Genesis 22:12 (NLT) Not too many people like tests. The test that Abraham had received was a hard one—it was a testing of his faith. In Genesis 22:2, God tells Abraham to, “Take your son . . . Go and sacrifice him as a burnt offering on one of the mountains.” The next morning Abraham and his son head out. The fact that Abraham listened to God, and did what was required without complaint, challenges me. This was his only son who he deeply loved. Yet the story ends happily as God stops Abraham provides a ram as a substitute sacrifice. Now that was a test of faith in God! There are times when I have had to give over to God what is precious in my life—to say, “God, this is not mine . . . this loved one does not belong to me but belongs to you. You can do whatever needs to be done.” A test for me was giving my family over to God. As a young adult, I would get very lonesome if I was away. Yet I wanted to be a missionary, and that would require being away from family, maybe a long distance. When I read about Abraham, it comforted me and gave me hope. When I give my family and other cares into His capable hands, God will take care of it. I just need to have my hands open and say, “God, You know what is best. Do as You please in this situation.” Today I have been away from my family, living across Canada, and now in the States. Not once have I felt homesick. God truly has answered my prayer in giving my family over to Him. He has given grace that has been enough! – Myrna Kopf   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“God blesses those that mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 (NLT) God knows you will experience grief in this life, but you’re not meant to go through it alone. Relying on God and others can relieve your sorrow. Ecclesiastes 3:1a-4 says: “To everything there is a time . . . a time to weep . . . a time to mourn, . . .” (KJV) John 11:35 says, “Jesus wept.” (KJV) Jesus felt deeply the pain of Lazarus’ death. I was raised in a culture where open grief was not normal. I recall standing by a family that had suffered a devastating loss to suicide. While viewing the casket, a little girl was weeping. A grandmother beside her was trying to comfort her by telling her not to cry. I can only imagine how the girl felt. From then on, she may have believed that it was not okay to cry. I have heard many stories of grief and loss as a counselor. Most often I hear symptoms such as, “It’s like something is stuck in my throat.” True sorrowing is a normal stage of grief, which is a deep gut cry. To cry is very therapeutic and brings an emotional release from pain. This taboo—“don’t cry”—was broken in my village years ago when we tragically lost a young man. During the wake service, the church was packed. A respected elder of the church got up and stated that we had suffered a devastating loss, “But it’s okay to cry.” It was like a dam broke—everybody was crying, from youth to adults. As one of the crisis workers, we didn’t know what to do. We tried to comfort everyone, then finally one of the workers said, “It’s okay, let them grieve.” Today, I am very grateful for the freedom to grieve with others and to comfort those that mourn. But most importantly, Jesus Christ is the greatest Comforter—He modeled grief by weeping. He is also the Healer. Psalm 147:3: “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” (KJV) – Liz Beardy   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“I will set you up on a high rock where your enemies cannot reach you.” Psalm 27:5 “When my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Psalm 61:2b (NKJV) Our village is surrounded by beautiful mountains. A huge rock on one mountain sits by itself on top—a reminder from God in different ways. For one, it weighs tons. No one carried it up there, and no one can take it down! God placed it there. Nothing is too hard for Him. It’s a reminder that He is the Rock—the Rock of all Ages. It’s also a reminder that when you stand on that rock, you will see things in a new perspective. It’s a reminder that you are standing on a solid foundation—Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19-22). The rock is also a reminder that God is Alpha and Omega—without beginning or end. For centuries people have been born and have died. Yet that rock still sits on top of that mountain. It’s a reminder that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. As the stars are God’s handiwork, so is that rock. The Creator put it there so that I could tell you about it today. Only a few people know about it. I have touched it, stood upon it, and prayed. As I look down from that rock to our village, it speaks to me about the Kingdom of God. Again, it reminds me that God is all knowing, all powerful, and everywhere. When you become a Christian, you won’t live on a perpetual “high.” The psalmist went down to the very depths, and so did the Apostle Paul. But in the midst of all circumstances, God’s grace, peace and joy are there. The tears will still come, the pressures will be felt, and so will the temptations. But there is a new dimension—a new direction and a new power in your life to face your circumstances. – Terry Hall   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NASB) On this side of heaven, we may never understand how all things can work together for good for God’s children. If we trust God, He will turn all these into opportunities for spiritual growth. My daughter and I both had dreams of a very dark storm coming our way. I believe God was preparing me for what was coming. My husband had been sick for a few weeks and had lost 27 pounds. He was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and COVID-19. Since there were restrictions, it meant that none of us could be with him. Every day I phoned him to read the Bible and pray. I felt the dark cloud hovering over our home, and I couldn’t eat. When I didn’t have the appetite to eat, I would force myself. Without warning he was transferred to Saskatoon. None of us were allowed to go with him. He had to go alone in the ambulance. This would be the last time that I saw my loving husband, as a few days later he passed away. Yes, I was shocked and devastated. I couldn’t cry. I just felt numb. One moment I was happy he wasn’t suffering anymore, the next moment I was angry at the medical people. All of a sudden, I felt God’s peace like I never felt before. He was telling me, “I am here, and you will see him again soon.” I am thankful for my Heavenly Father and the Word of God. Yes, I have times when I cry and grieve, but I know that my husband would not want me to stay in my closet and waste away. He would say, “Liz, go out there and tell them about our Great Savior Jesus.” I am blessed as I go out and minister for Jesus. – Liz Genaille   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Luke 12:40 (ESV) One of my most difficult things in life is “time.” I think about when I would get to my doctor’s appointment just one minute before my appointment. I was worried that if I was late, I would have to pay the $50 charge for being late. I think about it when I am to meet a client for a meeting, and I just make it on time. I tend to forget that rush hour or lunch time rush could play a factor in my plans to get from point A to point B. Some use the excuse of “Indian time.” But if you really think about it, Indians were always on time when it came to gathering food, preparing for the seasons, and making sure that their communities had all their needs met. I am talking about back in the day. What I am driving at is that we need to process our time to ensure that we are not late for something very important . . . and we won’t have to regret the outcome. I am referring to our Lord’s return. If we continue to just sit back and not do anything to get ready, we might miss the gates closing on us, and Jesus will say, “Do I know you?” We need to be ready and to be on time when He comes. He will come unexpected and, if we are not ready for Him, we will be disappointed. We need to prepare ourselves for when He comes. We need to repent of our sins, accept Him as our Lord and Savior and follow Him all of the days of our lives. And when He comes, we will be ready and on time. It’s like the Native people who gather all their provisions for the winter and prepare for any hardship it brings. We need to be ready for the second coming. – Kirby James   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NASB) When you experience hard things in life, it is difficult to believe that God has anything to do with what is happening. Early in my Christian walk, my older brother died a violent death at the hands of another family member. This was the first death in my immediate family that I had experienced. I went through many emotions during that time. It was a big test on my faith in God. I did not know where my brother was because I did not know for sure that he was born again. I was horrified and crushed at how his life ended. I felt helpless to be of any assistance to his family and my parents. Because of my confusion, I looked for answers from several mature Christians. One pastor read Romans 8:28 to me. I was upset and asked him, “How can any good come from such a horrible incident?” He encouraged me to go home and meditate on that scripture. I read Romans 8. Many verses stood out to me, but I tried to apply verse 28 to my family situation. After a time, I still did not understand it, but decided to believe what it says. It was then that God reminded me how He had kept my sister-in-law’s faith strong throughout the weeks following her husband’s death. She had even encouraged others around her in their faith. Then later, both my parents put their trust in the Lord. Since then, I have seen God’s goodness in many situations. Father God in heaven, please help me to remember, You work for the good of those who love You and have been called according to [Your] purpose. – Theresa Bose   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4 (NASB) Years ago, back in northern Manitoba, we met a young teen girl who was desperately asking for help. There were three of us in the home at the time, and she had been lying down in one of the rooms when she asked for help. So, I went in there, and prayed for her. As I knelt down beside the bed and began to pray, the other person in the home came in. The teen girl looked at him and said, “I will kill you!” She said this in a voice that didn’t sound at all like her. The young man ran out of that room so scared. As for myself, I was scared, too, feeling like the hair on the back of my head stood up. I felt such an evil presence there, but I just stayed on my knees and kept praying. Maybe a half hour went by as I remained on my knees beside her, when all of a sudden, I felt a gust of wind fly by and out of that room. I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit of God, then peace and quietness. The young girl said, “Help me get rid of my rock and roll cassette tapes.” So, we went and threw them in the outhouse hole (we should have burnt them instead). You see, as followers of Jesus, we have been given authority, by Him, in our battle with the enemy. When we pray in Jesus’ name, we can have confidence that He is fighting our battles for us. Father, thank You that You are King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Thank You that You are more powerful than any enemy we may fight. As we face difficult situations, help us to “Be Still” (Psalm 46) and pray in the name of Jesus. – Liz Genaille   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) Growing up in my little community, I lived with a lot of anxiety. It seemed that I was worried about everything. I’d fret over things at school, things at home, and almost every aspect of life. One of the ways that I dealt with my anxiety was trying to control situations I faced. That approach didn’t work very well, but that was the only way I knew of. Even after I gave my heart to the Lord, it was still a difficult area. When I got married, the control issue was a problem. The fear and uncertainty of growing up in a home where alcohol was center stage really impacted my outlook on life. As I grew in the Lord, I began to understand that I could leave everything in God’s hands! I didn’t have to worry about things or try to control my life situations. First Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (NIV) It’s been a learning process, but it’s so good to know that God cares about every detail of our lives! Dear God, thank You that when I become anxious and worried about things in life, I can always come to You. You are faithful and just and You’ve shown me that I can leave my burdens and cares with You. Thank You that I don’t have to carry them on my own! Amen. – Milly Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Your word I have hidden my heart, that I might not sin against You.” Psalm 119:11 (NKJV) I remember memorizing Psalm 23 in Sunday school. That earned me my first Bible! I like that the teacher said memorizing Scripture is like hiding God’s Word in our hearts. As I grew older, I realized what a treasure God’s memorized Word is. Keeping God’s Word with us this way serves in several ways. It is a reminder to not sin against Him and to draw on His many promises. It also helps us to be encouraged in moments we may experience fear and doubt. We also memorized the 10 Commandments and the Lord’s Prayer. I was 12 when I walked to the front to accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I remember my sister getting up and walking to the front. I had heard the choice so many times—“Accept the Lord Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior and go to heaven or die without Him and go to the eternal lake of fi re.” (We weren’t allowed to say “hell.”) I decided to accept Jesus—being in eternal pain wasn’t what I wanted. After hearing about Jesus’ love for all of us, over and over again, it was a clear choice. The pastor’s wife asked me if I was just copying my sister. I absolutely was not! The choice was all mine. The 10 Commandments became more important, and had more meaning, as did the Lord’s Prayer. Psalm 23 is good to gather strength from, and I always encourage others to read it when they are discouraged or have lost their way for a moment. Isaiah 55:8-9; Romans 8:38-39; 1 Corinthians 13; Jeremiah 29:11 . . . I have not fully memorized these, but often refer to them. This is one of my goals, to memorize more. Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your precious Word. Help me to hide more of it in my heart. – Loretta Oppenheim   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV) “Mama! Danny’s throwing rocks at that cat again!” Maya calls out, then says to her brother, “How come you keep throwing rocks at him? He’s not bothering anybody!” “Cause I hate cats! Next time, I’ll get my BB gun and that’ll take care of him!” says Danny. Mother answers from the doorway, “You shoot that cat and we’ll be in big trouble with Tribal Police! Now go get washed up for dinner!” The children scurry inside just as Miss Easter White, their next-door neighbor, comes over, leaning on her cane. “I want to talk to you for a minute, Thelma,” she says. “Come in,” she replies. “Have some dinner with us.” “Not today, thank you. I heard what’s happening between Danny and that cat. It’s good you told him what might happen if he shoots it.” “Absolutely! I told him I can’t have him getting us in trouble! His daddy should never have bought him that gun. Guns aren’t toys and should never have been made as toys!” Miss Easter answers softly, “But I never heard you tell him such talk is wrong. I have two cats of my own. Bring Danny over. He’ll see how they play with toys and can even open doors. Danny needs to see there’s more to cats than walking across his yard.” “I’ll ask him if he wants to go watch your kitties. No sense sending him over if he’s only gonna cause you problems.” Miss Easter smiles and replies, “When it’s between right and wrong, you ‘tell’ children, not ‘ask.’ I’ll look for him tomorrow—with ice cream for a treat!” “A righteous man regards the life of his animal” Proverbs 12:10a (NKJV). Our Father in heaven, grant that we, too, regard all that You have made as “very good.” – Kiki BelMonte-Schaller   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 (NKJV) I remember the first time I heard someone say, “I have a watch that does not have to be wound up every day; it runs by a battery.” In those days our watches and clocks didn’t have batteries to run them—they had a spring inside that was turned and turned until it was tight. Then the “time teller” was ready to go for another day. I still have a clock that works with a spring. Personally, there is something I like about the ticking of a clock. The old clock can teach us something. If you do not wind it up each day, it will not tell the truth; it will not point the right direction, and it will lose time. The believer in Christ should take time each day to worship the Lord in devotions, reading and prayer. If a believer does not take these times of worship, they will be like a spring clock that has not been wound. They will go slower and slower and soon will not be pointing in the right direction by his life. It is very important that we spend time with the Lord each day. We need to be renewed in our spirits each day, as we see in the Scripture verse above, and in Psalm 39:4a: “Lord, make me to know my end, and what is the measure of my days.” (NKJV) Lord, help me to know that I need to spend time with You, so that I can be heading in the right direction. – Bill Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“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 (NIV) Imagine we are living in the 1700s. We’ve carried water from the lake or creek, chopped wood for the fire, and started a stew for supper. (You men brought game home yesterday.) How difficult would it be for us to believe the tale of an odd-looking stranger who shows up with a wild story about a machine called a “747”—that we can walk into, with all of our luggage, find a seat with a window, and look down as it lifts us high into the thin air and carries us across the ocean? This is the same air that we breathe. We can wave our hands through it. How can a plane lift thousands of tons into that flimsy air? We have all seen airplanes and many of us have traveled in them, but I still can’t get over the wonder of it. My husband used to fly small planes, and he explained the aerodynamics of the wind over the wings. But, really, I don’t think I could believe it could be done unless I saw it for myself. Walking with God is a bit like this. We can’t see Him—like we can’t see the air—but we can see and feel the result of His presence. If we lean on Him—even when we don’t understand everything—He will lift us up. He will comfort and guide us. He will give us wisdom on how to walk with Him through this life on earth. He accomplishes what is impossible for us. Thank you, Lord, for the wonders You gave us on earth. Thank You for caring about each of us and having a design for our lives as awesome as flying through invisible air. Please open our eyes and hearts so that we can see and understand Your ways. – Sue Carlisle   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 (NKJV) When I attended Key-Way-Tin Bible Institute in the early 1990s, I began to learn what it means to trust in the Lord for everything. To get a diploma, three years were required. I did not know how I was going to pay for the three years. I was out of high school and didn’t have a job. I gave my life to Jesus on January 14, 1994, and the Bible school staff graciously worked it out so that I could start after the spring break. I just knew in my heart that God wanted me there to study His Word and learn to grow in Him. So, I didn’t have much money to my name, but I had a rich Heavenly Father! One time I badly needed new glasses, as mine were slowly falling apart. I was thinking that I would have to put duct tape on them, as I was desperate and can’t see anything without my glasses. It didn’t reach that point, though. In church one Sunday I came across this Bible passage (printed above). I was seeking God’s kingdom, and verse 32 of the same chapter says, “Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.” Yes, even if it’s new glasses! After church one Sunday, I decided to take a nap. During the nap, I heard some footsteps by my door, but nobody knocked or said anything. On the floor underneath the door was an envelope that read “God Bless.” I opened it up and there was 250 dollars cash! A gracious couple drove me to the city where I had an appointment with the optometrist. I picked out the frames that I liked. When I paid for it, the total cost was $249.99! Yes, I just had enough. God knew what I needed, and He sure provided! – Myrna Kopf   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2 (ESV) It just sits there. There’s an old 1964 Mercury “Shorty” school bus behind my dad’s place that’s been sitting there since 1976 when one of my brothers blew the motor on it. It’s a sweet little three-window bus that I sometimes wonder what it would take to fi x up, rebuild, restore, and customize . . . it would sure turn heads as it chugged down Main Street! Problem is, it’s just “potential.” It’s just a thought of “what could be.” It may happen someday, or maybe it will just sit there and rust ’til it’s deemed as scrap iron. It kind of reminds me of us as people. God gave each of us a certain amount of potential—things that we are capable of, things that we could be, ways that God could use us, ways that we could maximize what we have going for us right now, ways to become what we are designed to be. Problem is, it’s just “potential” until we start to let God have his rebuilding, restoring, recreating hand in our lives. It’s only then that we begin to see the new person that God can morph us into. It’s only then that our potential can translate to reality. – Kene Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11:19- 20 (NIV) It is easy to allow habits to creep in and take up residence in our lives just as the Israelites did in Ezekiel 11. We can allow the world around us to sell us their idols. Our focus becomes our jobs, our sports, our cars, or any other thing that starts to absorb our time and affections. Then God will intervene and allow circumstances in our lives to bring our hearts back to Him. As a child, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. Life circumstances prevented me from realizing my dream. Still drawn to this environment, I volunteered in schools until I got my first job as a classroom assistant. Years later, when my children were grown and my husband agreed, I went back to school. After earning my degree, I was thrilled to have my first class. Having my dream job added a new dimension to my life. After 15 years, though, I started to feel exhausted all the time. Two years later I received a diagnosis of cancer. The initial shock, followed by a fear of death, caused me to seek God. I spent many hours in study and prayer. I realized that my heart had become calloused. More of my time and attention was going to my teaching. Revelation 2:4b-5 (NIV) says, “You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.” Father God, help me to keep my focus always on You. Thank you for blessing my life with Your goodness, Your healing, my family, my church family, and Your many answers to prayer. – Theresa Bose   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Therefore, it was necessary for Him to be made in every respect like us, His brothers and sisters, so that He could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God.” Hebrews 2:17 (NLT) The High Priest mentioned in this verse is Jesus! In Philippians 2:6-7 it says, “Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up His divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When He appeared in human form . . .” (NLT) God humbled Himself and became like one of us. He experienced pain, loneliness, and rejection from those who were close to Him. Because he deliberately experienced these painful emotions, He is able to understand what we go through and sympathize with us. There is an old Native saying: “Take the time to walk a mile in his moccasins.” Well, in this case, Jesus walked more than a mile for us. He walked and carried a cross on His wounded body to Calvary to die on that very cross. But on the third day He rose from the dead! He is now, as the Bible says, our “merciful and faithful High Priest before God.” Not only does God understand me fully, but He is more than willing to help me when life gets hard—when I go through times of testing, He guides me through it. I am not alone—He goes through it with me as my merciful and faithful High Priest, a Priest above all priests. – Myrna Kopf   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“And He goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would; and they came unto him. And He ordained twelve, that they should be with him.” Mark 3:13, 14a (KJV) Recently, a teenager had been attending our small church faithfully for two months, but he suddenly stopped. About a month later I saw him walking with a friend. I asked him why he stopped coming and he replied, “I have been very busy and don’t have the time.” His friend piped up, “He is always busy on Sundays.” My wife and I wondered what could keep a 13 year-old so busy that he did not have one hour? We marvel that, despite the age, the justification is often the same: “I don’t have time for God.” This is one of the devil’s most effective tricks. Our enemy will attempt to do anything to keep us from spending time with Jesus. If a lamp is unplugged from the wall, the bulb loses the power to light up a dark room. Similarly, to live a victorious and overcoming life, we must continually spend time with Jesus by reading the Word of God and developing a prayer life. Throughout the years I have noticed that peace and joy in Christ consistently reigns in my life as I faithfully spend time with Jesus. In Mark, we see that Jesus desired to be with his disciples and “that they should be with him.” Friend, notice that before they were sent forth to preach, heal sickness, to cast out devils with great power and authority (vv. 14,15), they were to “be with Him.” Spending time daily with Jesus is the key to conquering every bondage, hindrance, sin, discouragement, and depression. Spending time with Jesus will transform our lifestyle, behaviors and attitudes. Transformation happens by simply “being with Him” each day. Do you spend time with Jesus every day? Isn’t it amazing that Jesus desires you to be with Him? – Steven Keesic   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 (KJV) A. God loves us. This is only one of the Scriptures that tells us that God loves us. Not just me. He loves all of us, the whole world. He loves not just the good people, but also the bad people. Drunks, alcoholics, drug addicts, murderers, thieves . . . all sinners are loved by God. God doesn’t love the sin, but He loves the person He created. Psalm 97:10 says, “Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: He preserveth the souls of His saints; He delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked.” (KJV) B. God looks after us. Remember that God created you and He loves you. He will not let anything happen to you that He does not will. If something bad happens in your life, don’t try to wonder why. It may be God’s way to use you later on in life to share with others who have or are going through the same or similar trials or tribulations. C. God allows hard time to strengthen us. God always has a reason for allowing us to go through trials in our life—to strengthen us and to use our testimony of how we handled it with God’s help. We are always to ask our Heavenly Father God for help to deal with our problems. We are to lay our burdens on Him to take care of. He wants to help us and take care of us if we call on Him. Just remember He is always there waiting on us to ask. He always wants to help take care if we ask. Dear Heavenly Father God, may my request be of Your desire to receive what is needed, also to seek what You desire in my life as I walk with You and for You. Amen. – Ed Bird   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Surely the righteous shall give thanks to Your name” Psalm 140:13a (NKJV) There are few things more painful than doing someone a kindness and having them treat it with disdain. After working in secret for weeks, Margaret, a prize-winning bead crafter, has finally finished the intricately beaded vest for her daughter, Princess. She wraps it and places it beneath their Christmas tree. When the big day arrives, Margaret can hardly wait to see Princess’s eyes brighten when she sees the vest! But when her daughter unwraps the gift, she scowls and tosses it back into the box. She says, “Here, sell it at the next powwow! I’m not a bead wearing Rez girl! I deserve designer threads like the girls wear at school!” Margaret can barely hold back her tears. In Exodus 14, God—through Moses—parts the Red Sea so that the Israelites can escape Pharoah’s pursuing army bent on returning them to Egypt and slavery. Yet, once on dry ground, their constant grumbling against God and Moses rouses God’s anger. He punishes them by extending their time in the wilderness. Ten lepers see Jesus and cry out for Him to have mercy on them. Jesus tells them, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” They obey. Each realizes he is healed, but only one is so grateful that he returns, glorifies God, and falls on his knees before Jesus in thankfulness. “Were there not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?” Jesus asks the onlookers. “Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” Luke 17:14,17-18 (NKJV) In giving thanks it shows that we remember God’s goodness and the kindness of others. We must never forget to give thanks for what is done for us. Thank You, Father God, for Your goodness toward us through Your precious Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen! – Kiki BelMonte-Schaller   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV) Isaiah 55:8, 9 has stuck out to me throughout the years. It really helps me put in perspective how great and wonderful and all-knowing God is. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (NASB) These verses have taught me not to question what happens, but to ask God to show me what He wants me to learn. The reason I chose the title is because when child killer Clifford Olsen let the world know he had found God through Jesus, our neighbor Monty was outraged and asked me how God could forgive Clifford and take him in? “What kind of God is that?” he demanded to know. My answer was, “One true to His Word. Wouldn’t you want that?” It was amazing that this same child killer had stayed in the home of my husband’s supervisor who had two daughters around the age of Olsen’s victims. The father was a believer and prayed every night that God would protect his girls, not even suspecting that the man he was showing God’s love to was a murderer. There were times Olsen was left with the girls while their parents went to take care of something. He behaved as an ordinary man, playing with the girls, taking care of them. There was no reason for the father to suspect Clifford to be a danger to his daughters. God protected them through this time! Heavenly Father, thank You that You are never changing, the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. I can trust You every minute, every hour, every day. – Loretta Oppenheim   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 (NIV) I’ve been intrigued by the story of a Rocky Mountain Cree of the mid-1800’s, a chief named Maskepetoon. Told by many, it has become a mix of myth, legend, and truth. However, all sources mark the man with the common denominator that follows the common thread of “Peacemaker.” Maskepetoon, a renowned warrior who came to faith in Jesus, found out that personal peace could only come when it was partnered with forgiveness. His only son had been murdered by a companion. Maskepetoon, faced with the choice of killing or forgiving him, offered his forgiveness to the man. His own dad had been killed by a fighter from another tribe. Years later, Maskepetoon met this warrior and extended his forgiveness to him, inviting him into his lodge and presenting him with a garment. But peace isn’t desired by all. Peace doesn’t come easily, and peace doesn’t come cheap. Maskepetoon paid the ultimate price when he later entered an enemy camp unarmed to negotiate a peace treaty. He was killed by a fighter from there. It seems rather ironic that his pursuit of peace would cost him hislife. In Maskepetoon’s eyes, the reward was worth the risk—the payoff was worth the price. Maskepetoon and his peacemaking endeavors were rejected by those around him but, if you had asked him, it was worth contending for! – Kene Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he has committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” James 5:14-15 (KJV) I was about 12 when I got stricken with a very bad skin disease. I missed a few of months of school and was eventually bedridden as the disease progressed. In my little village in northern Ontario, medical facilities were scarce. My mother was my main caregiver. Some kind neighbors would bring remedies, but they did not help. One day my mother came home from church and told my father that she had invited elders from the church to come and pray for me. That evening they arrived with their guitars and Bibles. They sang songs and read Scripture. They asked if I could be seated on the sofa, and they gathered around me. The pastor anointed me with oil, and they prayed as they laid hands on me. I found myself weeping as a sweet presence came over me. I got up from the sofa and was instantly healed by the power of God! I was sent out to a nursing station, examined, and they could not find anything wrong. The disease never came back. I met the Lord Jesus as my Healer that night when those men of God honored God’s Word . . . to pray for the sick and they shall be healed. Sadly, many churches don’t follow the Scripture. Many have created their man-made rituals or religious practices to deal with the sick. I share my testimony of healing to encourage believers to honor God’s Word, such as stated in James 5:14. God honors our faith in Jesus. – Liz Beardy   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19 (NIV) I will never forget my mom putting us five kids to bed early on a Saturday night because we were going to go to Sunday school the next day. My six-year-old thoughts were, “What!? Why? It was our day off from school.” A faithful man named Mr. Staley from the Oakridge Baptist Church in Vancouver had been visiting mom, explaining the Christian faith to her. He was obeying Jesus’s words from Matthew 28:19. I’m reasonably sure he came at least three times to talk to her about sending us to Sunday school. As I reflect on these times, I can’t help but think there must have been a lot of people praying for her to say yes. As it was, she only sent my older sister and I because the others were too young. I expect it took some extra encouraging, since mom was a survivor of residential school—something she never talked about to any of us. It has made me believe that mom had a faith of her own, in spite of what she may have experienced or witnessed in residential school. She was a peaceful person, gentle, caring. Nevertheless, Sunday school was where I first learned about God and Jesus. Sunday school was a safe place, bright, full of love and learning, and exciting stories. We memorized verses, earned Bibles, and went to Bible camp. I really looked forward to going every week. A family came to pick us up every Sunday until we were old enough to take the bus. I am forever thankful for these faithful followers reaching out to our family. Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your servants who brought us to Sunday school where we learned the Good News about Jesus and came to believe. – Loretta Oppenheim   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.” John 3:21 (NIV) A woman had prayed and prayed for her children to turn from their ways of addiction. She even asked the church for prayer that God would help her children stop and turn from their ways. It was for about seven years that she continued to pray, and it seemed nothing was happening. She slowly stopped coming to the church. We think she has given up on God because her prayers were not being answered. Let me share some Scripture that might help us understand this story. John 3:19-21 in another translation says, “They are judged by this fact: The light has come into the world. But they did not want light. They wanted darkness because they were doing evil things. Everyone who does evil hates the light. They will not come to the light, because the light will show all the bad things they have done. But anyone who follows the true way comes to the light. Then the light will show that whatever they have done was done through God.” (ERV) God does hear and answer prayer. He wants to and is willing to work with this woman’s children. But everyone has a free will provided by God. In her case, it seems that her children are not ready to give up the darkness they are living in and choose to stay in that lifestyle. Everyone who loves evil hates the light, and that is the truth. The ones who are true believers love the light. This woman’s children need to see the light of Jesus and turn from their darkness. Sad to say, many can’t see beyond the darkness they are living in. Let’s keep praying. God waits for people who are living in darkness to come to Him. – Kirby James   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18 (NKJV) It’s late afternoon. Jack, a bright all-around student, dribbles his basketball on his family’s driveway. He stops, aims at the net above the garage door, and shoots. A three pointer! There is no one to celebrate with him, so Jack whoops and dances around. A car pulls up. His friend, Dan, starts toward Jack. “Whatzup?” Jack asks in familiar slang as he continues to dribble the ball. “The debate team is meeting in a half hour. Can you come? We found out that Sohi College dropped out and we’ll be debating that tough Citywide College team on Friday. We need to get together. One of the subjects is climate change. There’s lots of research we need to do. Jack sinks another three-pointer. “Wow! You see that? It’s my third money ball today. For sure, I can go pro some day!” “Yeah, if you grow another six inches,” Dan chides. “Now, what about debate practice? You coming? We need you, man. I told the team I’d pick you up and bring you.” “I don’t need to practice,” Jack replies. “I can out-debate anybody, any place, any time. I’ll be there Friday for sure, okay? Have I ever let my team down?” “But what about that climate change topic? It can go a dozen ways, so let’s get going on the research. You’re our top debater, Jack. We really need you, man!” Dan pleads. Friday arrives. The rival teams are seated on stage. The moderator introduces them. The debate is on. But because Jack’s pride in believing himself unbeatable and too smart to need study and practice, he seems unfocused and cannot refute his rivals. His team loses. “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time” 1 Peter 5:6 (NKJV). Father God, grant me humility in my thoughts, words and actions, that I may be pleasing in Your sight. In Jesus’ Name. Amen. – Kiki BelMonte-Schaller   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17 (NIV) Often when we experience big tests, trusting God is not our first reaction. Then God speaks to our spirit and directs us to His Word. When more cancer was found in my system and I needed a second surgery, I was angry. Angry with the surgeon for not getting all the cancer the first time, angry that I was going back into surgery in two days and, yes, I think I was angry with God for my circumstance. I left to visit my brother who lived about three hours away. On the way, “Every good and perfect gift comes down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” popped into my mind. I did not know the reference, so I Googled it and found it in James. I was amazed that God spoke so clearly to me. He reminded me of where my experiences were coming from and that they were good. That scripture brought peace to my heart. God taught me many lessons in that season of my life. I gave up my job and lost my regular income, and my body was changed forever. In retrospect, I realized that these “things” had taken my focus away from God. I had given a lot of my time to perfecting my job, and I often wasted my earnings on frivolous, prideful buying. In the early months of my illness, I was afraid and unsure of the future, so I immersed myself in God’s Word. I spent many hours in prayer. I learned about His “rest” (trusting that He has me and is in total control of my circumstances). Father God, thank You for getting me back on track with You and teaching me that I can trust You in every circumstance. – Theresa Bose   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) The early believers were learning how to uplift and encourage each other through the use of their individual gifts. Peter was writing to them to instruct them further in this area. This reminds me of a little girl who always wanted to help. Anything she could do for somebody, she would do it. Whether it was helping her mom with the housework, or looking after her brothers and sisters, she was always there. She didn’t know at the time that her Bible called this the gift of helps. As she grew up, she found that she still liked to help people and, as she began to seek out her spiritual gifting, it turned out to be the gift of helps. She became a singer, and did a lot of counseling, as the doors opened for those opportunities. That little girl was me! I never realized that I had something to offer God. I was really shy and had a very difficult time to interact with people, much less counsel them! As I grew in the Lord, He transformed my thinking and my outlook on life. It was then that I was able to start using my spiritual gifting to help and encourage other people. What a joy! Dear God, You have given every one of us different gifts to serve you with. Thank You for the gifts You’ve given me. Help me to use them to honor You! In Jesus’ name, Amen. – Milly Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV) Nothing in this world can give us the confidence and security that we need. Only God the Father can. Only God can do this, as He is the one who can give us His presence for eternity, wherever we go and whatever we do. Therefore, I will not fear whatever comes. I will keep my eyes on Him. I know He will lead me in the very best way possible. After my husband died, I wondered, “How am I ever going to survive without him? Am I ever going to be able to go out on ministry again, alone?” I was scared to go alone, as the memories and thoughts of singing together and traveling to places together flooded my mind. “I’ll have to drive alone by myself,” I thought. Then God’s Word came to me from Isaiah 41, a reminder that I do not have to be afraid, and that God will strengthen me. Praise God for His Word and His precious promises. I can have confidence in my God in everything I can do for Him. I don’t have to hide away in my closet and grieve. Yes, I have my grieving and my time of crying, missing my beloved husband, but I also have my joy in the Lord. Father, the joy of the Lord is my strength, for in my weakness I am made strong in You. You have been my Shepherd, led me beside still waters and never left me alone. Thank You for comforting in my grief. And thank You for encouraging me to not stop sharing your love with others. – Liz Genaille   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.’” John 11:25 (NIV) A couple years back, about a week before Easter, a fellow musician shared with me this viewpoint on Easter Sunday. I’d like to pass it on to you. Read on . . . he said, “I don’t call it Easter Sunday anymore. I call it Resurrection Sunday. Why? Because every time I say that I’m telling whoever’s listening that Jesus is Risen—that He’s Alive!” Just by naming the day in that manner, he was testifying to everyone in his world that he believed in a Savior who was alive. After mulling that over for a while, I decided to start calling it that, too! I was reading some from J. F. McArthur’s writings and came across a really good resurrection quote: “If He never rose, He wouldn’t be alive. If He wasn’t alive, He couldn’t give us life. But He did arise, and He said in John 11:25, ‘I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in Me even though he dies, shall live again.’ So eternal life is dependent upon the resurrection.” He’s not “just” risen. Look at what Ephesians 1:20-22 (NIV) says: “He raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet . . . ” No, He’s more than just risen. The Word says, “... far above all rule and authority, power and dominion . . . ” He’s absolute deity! Not just risen! He’s Lord of All! On Resurrection Sunday, that’s the One we honor; that’s who we’re focused on! – Kene Jackson     Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (KJV) I always liked this verse, but I never really understood it until I watched some fishermen casting their nets into the water. The men waited patiently for the right waves to come rolling in, then they would take their circular nets that had weights around the edge and, with all their strength, they would cast their nets out into the water. The word “cast” had a new meaning. They threw their nets into the waves, and they cast them away as far as they could. They let go of their nets. When the nets sank, there would be fish caught in the nets and the fishermen would haul them back and remove the fish. The men did this over and over. They were strong men, but it must have been exhausting to cast the nets out and then haul them back when they were full of fish. Many of the disciples were fishermen—tough, muscular, strong men who worked hard pulling in nets full of fish and casting the nets out again over and over. They didn’t toss the nets, or let the nets float away, or let the nets sink to the bottom. They used all their strength to throw the nets as far as they could, to cast them away. I wanted to cast all my cares on God. I wanted to use all my strength to throw them as far away from me as I could—casting them away forever, never to think about them or worry about them or grieve over them again. The Bible says, “casting all your care.” It doesn’t say some of your care, or part of your care—it says all your care . . . care about your family, health, finances, job, marriage, children, problems . . . all your care. I will cast all my cares on God. I will let go and I will not remember. – Crying Wind Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” Matthew 6:26 (NIV) Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Luke 12:25 (NIV) I often remember Feisty, a little squirrel with a notch missing on his ear, who visited our yard in northern Alberta. Our cabin was located along a migration path and, in spite of the frigid temperatures, many birds wintered there. Hundreds of pine grosbeaks, evening grosbeaks, redpolls, gray jays, and chickadees visited our yard daily. Feisty took ownership of the feeders that we filled from a 50-pound bag of sunflower seeds stored near the patio. His greatest challengers were the blue jays. Feisty raced from one feeder to the other, chasing away the jays. His eyes sparkled with the challenge; his little tail waved as a banner of his success. Then he scurried back to fill his cheeks with seeds and ran to deposit them in his private store—our bag of sunflower seeds. Over and over he rushed back to the feeders, chasing the jays and filling his storehouse. I don’t know if he realized that, as he chased one group of jays far out into the yard, another group swooped in to eat at the feeders. Then, as soon as Feisty ran for his stash, the chased group came back to eat. We laughed at him, but it made me wonder if my flurry of activity amuses my heavenly Father. Dear Father, thank You for sharing Your wisdom with us through the antics of a small squirrel. Help us to listen to Your voice as You direct our days so that we will not get sidetracked with our own ambitions and plans that end up in futility. Help us to lean not on our own understanding, but to rely on You in all that we do. – Sue Carlisle Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) I remember years ago when we were coming up the fishing trail, bringing our well-caught deserved river salmon home. I was with my grandmother, and there were two other children who were ages seven and nine. I was nine years of age. For some reason our dogs did not go with us that night. That night we met a bear on the trail! It put so much fear in us that we almost tore my grandmother’s clothes off of her clinging to her! Grandmother was calm as a cucumber and spoke words in our language. The bear left us alone and left the area. I am not sure what she said, but that bear listened. (Interestingly, I found out later that we are from the Bear clan!) Whatever the reason the bear left us alone, I know that my grandmother was my hero at that moment. The Scripture above tells us that we should not fear, for God will always be there for you. You should not have to worry about anything because He’s got you. It was like my grandmother. She was there when we needed protection from fear. She just spoke and the bear left. I truly, truly believe that is all the Lord has to do—to speak, and the fear will leave us. He has us with His righteous right hand. Think about it—one hand, not two! So, when it comes to struggle with fear, remember that He is always going to be there for us. It was during that time when my grandmother was starting her path as a believer, and I am certain she placed her faith in the Lord. – Kirby James Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” Luke 12:7 (NLT) As a child and teenager, I used to think that God was distant—that He created this world and left. My mom started going to a church in our community, and it was quite obvious that there was a change in her life. She shared with us that she had become a Christian. I didn’t understand what that meant, but I did see the change in her life. She wanted to know more about God, and a friend told her about a Christian Native school not far from where we lived. It was called Key-Way-Tin Bible Institute, near Lac La Biche, Alb. Next thing, my mom and siblings were on their way, moving to live at Key-Way-Tin. However, I went to live with my uncle in the city because I didn’t want to be at a Christian place. But things didn’t work out with my schooling in the city, so I moved back with my mom to take classes in Lac La Biche, which meant living at Key-Way-Tin. As I lived with Mom and my siblings, she would share some of the Bible truths that she was learning. There was no doubt that she was thoroughly enjoying studying God’s Word. She shared with us the gospel and different stories from His Word. One Bible passage that stood out to me was in Luke 12:7, stating that the very hairs on my head are numbered! Wow! That really intrigued me. I thought God was distant, but Him knowing even the number of hairs on my head made me realize that He is not distant at all. Not only is God personal . . . He is relational. He is a loving God who knows me so personally, more than I will ever understand, and values me so much! Why should I be afraid? – Myrna Kopf Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV) I took the time the other day to count the doors at our place. It took about 30 seconds to figure out that there’s 12 of them. Kind of a mundane exercise, but it got me thinking about “closed and open doors” and how God uses both kinds in our lives. The “open doors” are the opportunity ones. They can be captivating, motivating and exciting or, on the flip side, intimidating, overwhelming, and downright scary! You see, open doors usually mean “change.” Change is a great concept, but most of us are wired to resist it. The “closed doors” are more of an enigma. Sometimes it’s an issue where we’ve had a real brilliant, “Einstein-ish,” “Mensa-grade,” “Humdinger” of an idea, only to find that nobody else shares our enthusiasm . . . that finances aren’t there, and logistical realties (or common sense) present us with a closed door. It’s not an exact science, and it takes a lot of prayer to differentiate between “normal” obstacles and doors that are truly closed, but as we follow God’s way and get to know the principles and absolutes of the Scriptures, it gets easier to make those distinctions. As we seek guidance in our lives from God’s Spirit, we learn that two of His navigational tools are open and closed doors. – Kene Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of Man cometh.” Matthew 24:44 (KJV) Back a while ago, we were having a conversation with one of our young grandsons about Jesus Christ coming back for us. He was sitting in a big chair, looking up into the sky for a while, when all of a sudden he said, “Jesus is coming, Jesus is coming!” We said, “Where?” He pointed out the window and, at that moment, a big jet was flying over. As it passed by, he said, “Jesus left us behind.” After it had passed and disappeared, we said, “Jesus is not coming by plane, train, or car. But he will come in the blink of an eye. So, he blinked and said, “Boy, He is taking a long time.” He had thought that Jesus was coming that day, and he wanted to be ready. Later, we noticed that he was actually watching by the window with his coat on, waiting for the return of his Lord and Savior. We told him again, “When Jesus comes, just blink and you will be in Heaven that fast.” So, he blinked again, then said, “But I’m not in heaven.” We do not know the time or day when He will return. But we can be vigilant and wait on the Lord’s return. We can have faith like my little grandson, watching, expecting and knowing that He is coming. Lord, we do not know the time or day when You will return. We don’t want to be caught unaware and unprepared. Help us to remain vigilant and wait on Your return. – Liz Genaille   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“People do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy himself when he is starving. Yet when he is found, he must restore sevenfold.” Proverbs 6:30-31a (NKJV) A supermarket manager rigs his scales to make customers’ purchases appear to weigh more in order to overcharge them. God calls this “an abomination.” Some otherwise honest folks boast about cheating on their taxes by inflating their tax deductions: “Hey, we’re only working-class bums. Billionaires pay no taxes, so I hear.” But what does Scripture say about paying taxes? When the temple tax collectors come to Jesus, He honors their request and directs the apostle Peter to go to the sea, cast in a hook, and take the first fish. Inside its mouth will be a coin with which Peter is to pay the taxes for them both (Matthew 17:27). Max, a little boy whose grandma has little money, gives him and his brother 10 pennies whenever they visit. The first 10 pennies go to older brother, Sam. Then Grandma counts what is meant to be 10 for Max. But Max notices there are nine pennies and a dime. “Grandma, you gave me too much,” he says. “Thank you, son!” she says, and corrects the overpayment. On their way to the store, Sam grumbles, “You should have kept that dime!” Max shrugs, “Grandma might have needed it more.” Which boy is more likely to grow up to be an honest person? Margo wants money to see a movie. She steals the cash from her mother’s purse. Is it okay to steal from your parents? What does the fifth Commandment say? Stealing also includes: kidnapping, taking an innocent person’s life, gossip (which is stealing another’s reputation), taking any property belonging to another, cheating a worker of his/her wages. How many more ways can you think of? Father God, strengthen us to follow Your Word in times of our temptation. In Jesus’ name, Amen. – Kiki BelMonte-Schaller   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” Ephesians 6:10 (KJV) A while back I was driving along during the evening. My headlights started dimming down, and the truck started to hesitate. We were still quite a way from home. The lights kept dimming down, and the truck would slow down. Every now and then we had to stop, and it seemed like the battery was draining. Finally, we got home, and I realized what had happened. The day before I was working on the truck alternator, changing the brushes. So, I checked it and, sure enough, I realized that I had left the nail in the alternator that was holding up the brushes . . . so the brushes weren’t seated. Because of that, the circuit was not complete, and we had an “unplugged” alternator. I pulled out the nail, the brushes fell into place, and made the connection complete. It now worked fi ne and was now generating electrical power. Before, we were just running on battery power. We must “keep generating”! It’s a reminder to be plugged in, make contact, and keep generating. Isaiah in the Old Testament says that God helps tired people to be strong. He gives power to those without it. Even young men get tired and need to rest. Even young boys stumble and fall. But those who trust in the Lord will become strong again. They will be like eagles that grow new feathers. They will run and not get weak. They will walk and not get tired. If you want light in your house night or day, the light must be plugged in. It must be plugged into the power source. The electrical plug is only a link to the power source, but a very important link. For us to be in the place of light and power . . . we must be plugged into Jesus. Isaiah 2:5b says: “Let us walk in the light of the Lord.” (KJV) – Terry Hall   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay.” James 5:12b (KJV) It’s hard for me to say “No.” When I say “No” I feel guilty. I feel like I have to make excuses and explain why I can’t do something, and I need to apologize. When the minister of our church said he wanted to paint his house and needed volunteers to help him, I volunteered to help. I had expected about a dozen church members to show up, but I was the only one. His house was a small two-bedroom house. We started painting, and then he received a call and said he had to leave. I ended up painting the entire house alone—it took a week. I spent 10 days taking care of the neighbor’s cat while she visited friends in Utah. She said the cat was litter box trained. It wasn’t. The cat was nervous, meowed constantly for its owner, and rarely used the litter box. When the neighbor returned, I didn’t tell her about her cat, but the next time she asked me to take care of her cat I told her I was expecting company. I lied. I know I shouldn’t have. I couldn’t bring myself to be honest with her, and I couldn’t just say “No.” She never spoke to me again. The list is endless. I have allowed people to take advantage of me for years, partly because I felt it was my Christian duty to help other people, and partly because I didn’t have the courage to say “No” to anyone who asked for my help. I don’t regret the things I’ve done wrong as much as I regret the things I did right for the wrong reasons. It took me years to learn that sometimes it is alright to say “No.” Lord, give me the courage to say “No” when it is the right answer. – Crying Wind   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV) Scripture teaches us that no man has ever seen God. The only person to ever come close to seeing God that I read about in the Bible is Moses. And he only saw the back of God, not His face. God told Moses specifically how to approach Him. God said, “Stand in the cleft of the rock” and “you will see my back, but my face must not be seen” (Exodus 33:17-23). God told Moses in that encounter that no one had ever seen Him and lived. Why? Because that is the holiness of God. Incredible and powerful! We can live our Christian lives three ways: by faith, sight, or good works. Here are reasons why I choose faith: (1) We are instructed by the Word of God to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). I am glad my Christian walk is by faith in God and not in people or things of this world. Guaranteed, people will disappoint you. But if your faith journey is in God, you will never be disappointed. (2) What about good works? Well, doing good works is biblical, but even that can bring disappointment, frustration, and emptiness. The Christian life is all about balance. Absolutely, do good works, but don’t make it the basis of your Christian walk. We do good works in ministry related to world disasters, overseas and local outreach to the poor in spirit. But remember, you and I must still rely on our faith in the Son of God. Hebrews 11:6 says, “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Hebrews 11 is often called the “Hall of Faith.” I encourage you to take the time to read it and be encouraged to see how the family of faith walked their journey here on earth and accomplished great things for the kingdom of God. – Marshall Murdock   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Then he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’ Jesus answered him, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.’ ” Luke 23:42-43 (NIV) I remember visiting a home where the husband was dying from cancer. I asked if it was okay for me to go and see him in his room. The wife agreed. I entered the room, and you could tell that he did not have many days left. I asked him if he knew Jesus Christ, and he said he did not know. I told him who Jesus is, and that He is preparing a place for us. I asked him if he would ask Jesus for forgiveness of his sins, and he agreed by nodding yes. I told him that he will be with Jesus in paradise for eternity, and he nodded yes. The next day he passed away. When I think of this man, I think of the thief on the cross in Luke 23. One criminal defended Jesus and asked Him to remember him when He comes into the kingdom. The man in my story had not been a believer, but he became open to knowing Jesus. Like the thief on the cross he, too, had an opportunity to be with Jesus in paradise. If you know someone who is close to death, they still have an opportunity to express their faith and not be led into the lake of fire. We all have a chance to “make it right” before we pass away, and it may take a believer in Jesus to make it happen. Don’t let your loved one miss that opportunity. Tell them about Jesus and what to expect when they have no more breath. If you love them very much, take the risk. If they chose not to ask Jesus for forgiveness of their sin, at least you have made the effort. – Kirby James   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (NKJV) I like my truck—it’s a blue 2007 4x4 Chevrolet Avalanche. There’s a bit of rust, a few years and a few miles on it, but it runs good and gets me around. When I’m cruising at normal speed on a flat highway, the 5.3-liter motor runs easily on four cylinders (using less gas). That’s great as long as I’m not hauling a heavy load, trying to climb a steep hill, pulling a big old flat-deck trailer, trying to pass a semi-trailer—or all of the above (at the same time!). At times like that, four cylinders just aren’t enough. I need more power! It’s then that all eight pistons cut in and you hear the mufflers ramp up to a “Harley-level” roar! My right foot sinks perilously close to the floorboard as it spurs my old Chevy into the next dimension (or at least past the semi)! The verse above talks about those times when you need added strength to face bigger obstacles, harder situations, and more intense opposition than what your normal day brings. When your bank account is $6 overdrawn with no cheque on the radar . . . when “till death do us part” just walked out the door with a suitcase . . . when your doctor is making a living as the constant bearer of bad news . . . and when there’s no sign that things will change anytime soon, you need strength to draw on that you just don’t have in yourself. When the road gets rough, I need my truck to go from four to eight cylinders and deliver that extra power I need right now. When my spiritual journey involves more mud, gravel and hills than level pavement, I need that added strength I’m promised in Philippians 4:13. If the battlefield you’re facing right now requires more spiritual stamina than usual, just know that it’s there for you! As a Christ follower, you’re promised and assured of His power in all situations. – Kene Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“Jesus replied, ‘They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.’ ‘We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,’ they answered. ‘Bring them to me,’ he said.” Matthew 14:16-18a (NIV) We used to have Sunday school in our home back when we lived in Cormorant, MB. We had people from all ages attend. This one day, there were families from our community, and a lot of out-of-town families, too. We used to feed the people who would come from out of town, but this day everyone decided to stay. We knew how much food we had, and it certainly wasn’t enough food for everyone. My husband, Bert, and I talked it over and decided that he and I would not eat. So, we prayed over the food that day. Everyone ate, and to our surprise there was some left over so Bert and I could eat after all. Wow! It reminded me of the loaves and fish story in Matthew 14, where the disciples said, “We only have five loves and two fish,” and Jesus replied, “Bring them to me.” Do you know what happened? All the people had enough food that day, and there were even leftovers. There were over 5000 people to feed! I believe that when we prayed over the food that day, God multiplied the food so everyone could eat. Praise Jesus! Thank you, Lord, for hearing our prayers. You multiplied the food that day, and everyone including us had a meal! Increase my faith, Lord, to believe daily that You are Provider and will provide for my every need. – Liz Genaille   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” 1 Peter 2:9-10 (NIV) I grew up near Williams Lake, B.C., on a small reserve called Sugar Cane. I have many sweet memories of playing in the beautiful surroundings of my childhood home. When I started attending the Day School on the reserve, everything changed. The teacher was very cruel and racist. After completing grade six, I went off to residential school until I completed high school. After these experiences, I had very low self-esteem and a deep confusion about authority figures. I started using alcohol and became dependent on it to boost my confidence and ability to interact with people. However, my sister gave her life to God and I noticed a change in her. She encouraged me to come to church with her. A missionary shared the gospel, and I put my trust in the Lord. In a study one night I heard, “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.” Those words did not fi t my image of myself. I cried because I felt unimportant. God’s Word was telling me something different. I was interested in learning more. Since then, I have learned how God sees me and about His love for me. John 3:16, 1 Corinthians 13 and Psalm 139 are only a few passages that tell us of God’s love, His goodness, and His generosity. Father God, I ask You to help me treasure the truths that Your word speaks, and to learn to apply these truths to my life. – Theresa Bose   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.” Luke 6:40 (NIV) Everyone always says, “My mom’s fry bread is the best.” I think back to when I would say the same thing. I can remember when I asked my mom to teach me how to make fry bread. She told my wife and me to grab a bowl, and she told us the ingredients: flour, water, oil, salt, baking powder . . . and two handfuls of love! She told us to mix them together and try not to knead it too much. We would eventually fry it in oil that was in a frying pan, and it became a golden-brown masterpiece! She was a very good teacher. The above Scripture reminds us of our need to be a student and to be taught. We are always students when it comes to the Holy Spirit, who is constantly teaching us to be fully mature. We can’t be above the One who teaches us because the Teacher has been a teacher for a long, long time. We may think that we know a lot, but do we really know a lot? When I first became a student of the Bible, it would come easy—but there is so much to learn about being a student for life. The Holy Spirit was given to us so we can learn to be a believer, to learn to follow Him, and live a life that God wants us to live. Living a godly life will teach you to be a good student, and one day you will be a teacher to another person, like my mother who taught me to make fry bread. – Kirby James   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above . . . ” Colossians 3:1 (NKJV) The old trapper I was visiting mentioned “drops from a plane.” I began to ask some questions of this man who had spent many years on a trapline north of Ft. Chipewyan, Alb. He explained that it was difficult to take enough supplies to last for the duration of the winter and spring trapping seasons, so supplies were ordered whenever they ran low. Communication to the store was by two-way radio. People at the store would wrap up the order—things like flour, sugar, tea and lard. Then a plane would fly to the designated area and begin to drop the items. This worked well, as there were no nearby airstrips for landing and take-off. Though this trapper had been familiar with this procedure for years, he remained fascinated with the accuracy of the drops. He said, “We never lost anything. As the plane circled, the carefully wrapped items would bounce near us until the drops were completed. They were right on!” I had heard of similar things being done in other parts of the world. I felt there was a comparison here to something in the spiritual realm. Answers from God to us in “gift packages” should include the leading of His Spirit, more sound knowledge of His Word, and a genuine concern for others that moves us to pray for others and speak to them. One more thing the trapper told me was, “When we came home from the trapline we went to pay for our drops from the plane.” As believers, we know that we need not pay for our “drops from above”— they are gifts. James 1:17 says, “Every good and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” (NKJV) – Bill Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called. And they call the blind man, saying unto him, Be of good comfort, rise; he calleth thee. And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus.” Mark 10:49-50 (KJV) Life is unfair and hard at times. Unforeseen events, pain and tragedy seem to confront us. Events can prevent us from continual spiritual growth and happiness in our Christian life. Blind Bartimaeus begged daily in order to survive. During this time in history, such disabilities were often considered a death sentence. As a result, Bartimaeus was likely hopeless and broken. We can all relate to spiritual captivity and bondage. Years pass by, and the wilderness season of spiritual drought drags on. The tendrils of doubt and discouragement take root deep in our hearts like Bartimaeus. However, with Jesus, what is impossible for man is not impossible for God! Hope rose in Bartimaeus’s heart when he heard that Jesus was near. He began to cry out to Him for mercy, despite people telling him to be quiet. Jesus stopped and called for Bartimaeus. Notice the Lord’s compassion for this poor lost soul. Surely this was the best news that Bartimaeus had ever heard! Then, casting away his garment, he rose and came to Jesus, who healed him. This is an incredible encouragement for us. No matter what mountain confronts you or bondage that besets you, cry out to Jesus! He will deliver you from the grip of the enemy. You may feel that you are all alone but, if you are a child of God, the Holy Spirit dwells in you. Jesus will never leave you nor forsake you. Arise like Bartimaeus. Cast away the lies, the discouragement, the shame, the anger and come to Jesus! What has kept you defeated and discouraged? Jesus wants you to come to Him today and He can deliver you. – Steven Keesic   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org

“The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in Him!’ ” Lamentations 3:22-23 (NLT) The Bible is not clear as to the author of the book of Lamentations but, regardless of who wrote it, it appears to be someone who was in deep distress, particularly over the fact that Jerusalem was being destroyed by the Babylonians. Imagine having your country and people in ruin! It is a terrible loss and the person who wrote this book shares what is going on. The author was in deep distress, but was never hopeless. The author penned the words so beautifully, “The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is His faithfulness, His mercies begin afresh each morning.” That doesn’t sound like someone in terrible ruin. Even though the author was in the midst of ruin, they put their faith and hope in the Lord. This encourages my heart to know that when discouraging times come (and they do), there is always hope! It is hope that is certain and never wavers. God is in control of hard and discouraging times, and I know that I, too, can trust Him for the time and for the outcome. – Myrna Kopf   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org