APR 9

John 4:35-38
Memorise John 4:37
“Look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest”

WHAT WAS WILLIAM BURNS LIKE?

The godly influence of this Scottish man, William Burns grew far and wide. He labored long and hard among the millions in China. For twenty years he travelled tirelessly, often a solitary witness with only a few helpers. On and on he went, sowing the seed of the gospel which others would reap, until he reached the borders of Manchuria where he went home to be with the Lord on April 4th, 1868.

A day in his life would begin early in the morning when he prayed for blessing. Then he would set out with a light bamboo stool and placed it in a suitable spot to preach. He would stand on the stool and speak for twenty minutes, while his assistant prayed and pleaded for blessing from the Lord. Then they changed places. After an hour or two, they would move to another point and speak again. Usually about midday they returned to their boats for dinner, fellowship and prayer, and then resumed out-door work until dusk. Before leaving the town, they placed many Scripture portions and other gospel literature in the hands of those interested. And so it went, day after day, William Burns would labour and toil.

William Burns was also a man of deep prayer. He recognized that shallow and superficial praying was one of the greatest hindrances to the kingdom of Jesus Christ. So he would often retreat to his secret place of prayer and persevered in prayer till victory was won. Today the BP churches greatly emphasize the importance of witnessing and missions work. Coupled with this is also the recognition that prevailing prayer is just as important. The prayer meeting of the church is always the week’s top priority after the Lord’s Day. All fellowship groups also have their own prayer meetings. The teachers and helpers in the various children’s camps and activities are also encouraged to come together to seek the Lord’s blessings in prayer before the programme commences.

Dear teen, seek opportunities to witness for Christ. You will find much joy as you do so. Give out tracts even when you travel. Invite friends to gospel meetings as well as on Gospel Sundays. If you are unable to participate, pray for these events. Your prayer is just as important as your presence.

Thought: Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?
Prayer: Loving Father in heaven, may my life be more and more consecrated for Thy use.