Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ,… (Colossians 4:2-3 ESV)

Identity was the topic of our discussion during the special Sunday evening service on August 21st. While introducing the discussion, the leader reminded us of the impact that a change of name had on the identity of some bible characters – Simon to Peter (a rock which identifies the key role he played in the church), Jacob (grabber) to Israel (wrestled with God (and man)).
The week before that, the preacher focused on the way that Nebuchadnezzar had tried to redefine the identity of Daniel and his friends by changing their names (from names related to the one true God, Yahweh, to names related to idols), their ideology (through training in the Babylonian culture), and their food. However, Daniel and co. resisted the redefinition of their identity and remained faithful to their God.

In his instructive example of how to pray, Jesus encourages his disciples to pray, "your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10) 

The indigenous missionary partners that you will pray for this month as you use this prayer guide are part of the answer to that prayer. They are one of God's tools to expand his kingdom on this earth and to bring people into the condition where they have responded to Christ's offer for salvation and are following his will in their lives.