FAMILY WORSHIP SUPPLEMENT
JANUARY 2021
Hymn of the Month
Trinity Hymnal #92 – A Mighty Fortress Is Our God – This hymn, referred by some as the Battle Hymn of the Reformation, was originally composed in German by Martin Luther in the late 1520s. The words were written to be loosely based off of Psalm 46. Verses 6 and 7 of this psalm read, “The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”
As various kings, clergymen, and naysayers opposed Luther’s return to Scriptural fidelity, he was encouraged to find affirmation in these very Scriptures that God was, for his people, a Mighty Fortress. As you sing this hymn, either independently or as a family, be encouraged to have a fortress amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing. Be encouraged to forsake your own striving, which would be losing, and to instead rejoice that you have the right Man on your side who must win the battle. Be encouraged that God has willed for his truth to triumph through us. And be encouraged that God has given you far greater graces than your goods, kindred, and mortal life – he has given you His very own Spirit and entrance into his forever-abiding kingdom.
Prayer for Unreached Peoples
The Java Pesisir Lor of Indonesia (Evening Service, 1/3/2021) – The Java Pesisir Lor of Indonesia are a predominately Muslim sub-ethnic group of about 37 million people. This group inhabits part of the island of Java. Religious practice is often a mix between Islam and traditional religion. Only 0.01% of the population is evangelical Christian.
The Hausa of Nigeria (Evening Service, 1/10/2021) – Nearly all Hausa in Nigeria practice Islam. Only 0.10% are evangelical Christian. The nearly 35 million Hausa live in northern Nigeria, and though the extremist movement Boko Haram is not associated with this ethnic group, persecution against Christians is still a common occurrence. There is also widespread illiteracy, divorce, and unemployment among this people.
The Jat of Pakistan (Evening Service (1/17/2021) – Of the 32+ million Jat people living in Pakistan, census data indicates that the group is 100% Muslim. There are some other Jats (living outside of South Asia) who identify as Christian, but options in Pakistan are restricted. Pray for opportunities for the gospel to reach this people.
The Burmese of Myanmar (Evening Service (1/24/2021) – Buddhism is the primary religion of the Burmese in Myanmar. Around 0.08% of the 31 million Burmese are evangelical Christian. Many Burmese believe that turning to Christ will provoke evil spirits. Burma has also experienced political instability. Pray against these obstacles, and ask the Lord to raise up many more workers to reach these lost souls.