Blessing and Thanksgiving in the Midst of Challenges in Life

November is often a time of thanksgiving and reflection of what God has done and being doing for us, and it’s a great opportunity to focus on Christian spiritual blessings.

 The Blessing of God’s Peace

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
— Philippians 4:6-7

This passage reminds us of the incredible blessing of God’s peace, which is beyond human understanding. It invites us to bring everything – our joys, worries, and needs – to God in prayer, but not just with requests. Thanksgiving is a vital component. This passage is a profound encouragement from the Apostle Paul, offering a roadmap for overcoming anxiety and experiencing God’s peace. Let us try to understand what Apostle Paul means when he wrote this text to the people of Philippians and for us today:-

1. “Do not be anxious about anything”

Paul begins with a command not to worry. Anxiety is a natural response to uncertainty, but Paul directs believers to trust God instead of being consumed by fear. This does not mean ignoring challenges but recognizing that God is sovereign and able to handle every situation.

2. “But in everything by prayer and supplication”

Instead of worrying, Paul urges believers to take everything—big or small—to God in prayer. Prayer refers to general communication with God, while supplication emphasizes earnest, specific requests. It shows that God cares about the details of our lives and invites us to share them with Him.

3. “With thanksgiving”

Thanksgiving is the attitude that transforms our prayers. When we thank God for God’s faithfulness in our life experience and the countless blessings that we received, it builds trust in God’s ability to provide for the future. Gratitude shifts our focus from problems to God’s goodness and power.

4. “Let your requests be made known to God”

This phrase reminds us that God wants us to come to Him openly and honestly. It’s an act of faith to lay our concerns before Him, trusting that God hears and will act according to His perfect will.

5. “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding”

The result of this prayerful, thankful approach is God’s peace. This is not merely the absence of trouble but a deep, abiding sense of well-being and security in God. It’s a peace that goes beyond human comprehension, as it is rooted in God’s unchanging nature rather than changing circumstances.

6. “Will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”

God’s peace acts like a protective shield, guarding our emotions (“hearts”) and thoughts (“minds”) against fear and doubt. This guarding happens in Christ Jesus, highlighting the relationship believers have with Him as the source of this peace.

When we submit our problems to God with thanksgiving, it shifts our focus from our problems to God’s faithfulness. When we acknowledge what God has done for us, our hearts are filled with gratitude and confidence in God’s ability to handle what lies ahead. God’s peace is a gift that guards both our hearts and minds. While the world may be turbulent at this moment – be it sickness in the family, war as it is prolonged in the Middle East or communal violence as it is escalating again in the State of Manipur, in all these circumstances, even as we are the victims of these turbulence whether physically or mentally,  the divine peace assures us that we are secure in Christ. It’s a reminder that God’s blessings are not just material but deeply spiritual, transforming our inner world even in the midst of challenges and pain.

In this season, let us thank God not only for God’s provision but also for God’s steadfast presence, guiding peace, and the privilege given to us of casting our worries and cares on God who walks through the pain and challenges with us. Knowing that our God is in our midst and gives us the assurance that our troubles will come to an end.

By Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi 
A/D Church, Public Relations and Resource Mobilisation

BOMBAY AUXILIARY

Bombay Auxiliary Bible Exhibition cum sale in Kolhapur City in Maharashtra

 A three days Bible exhibition was opened on November 8, 2024 and the inaugural programme was held at the Wilder Memorial Church Hall by Auxiliary Secretary of BSI Bombay Auxiliary. On this occasion, BSI staff members, BSI Bombay Auxiliary committee members Rev. D. B. Samudre and Mrs. Mrudula Ghodke, Kolhapur Church Councils’ executive committee members and pastors and leaders of various denominations in Kolhapur were present. The Auxiliary Secretary and staff members of BSI Bombay Auxiliary were felicitated. The exhibition was held from 8^th to 11^th of November, 2024 from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

BSI Kolhapur Branch Youth Committee was Formed:

On the 9^th,  Auxiliary Secretary Rev. Clement Christian conducted a special meeting for local youth at Wilder Memorial Church at 11:00 am. Nearly 30 young people were present. The youth were enlighted with the Ministry of the BSI and the Secretary also share the Word for the youth. Significantly, the Kolhapur Bible Society of India Youth Committee was formed on this day.

BSI Kolhapur Branch Mary Jones Women Fellowship was Formed:

BSI Kolhapur Branch was Reformed:

After COVID 19 the BSI Kolhapur branch stopped functioning. On the 9^th evening at 5:30 pm, a volunteers meeting was convened and praise be to God the BSI Kolhapur Branch was reformed again.

Bible Sunday Celebrated:

Personal Reformation Through the Word of God

Text for Meditation: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

1.  The Centrality of Scripture (Sola Scriptura)

The Protestant Reformation was built on the foundation of Sola Scriptura, the belief that Scripture alone is the ultimate authority in matters of faith and life. The Word of God is not just a text to be read; it is alive and active (Hebrews 4:12), bringing about deep, personal transformation in the believer.

 Martin Luther, in his famous moment of transformation, described how the revelation from Romans 1:17 (“the just shall live by faith”) changed his life. It was the Word of God that reformed his heart.

2. The Word as a Mirror: Self-Examination and Repentance

The Word of God is like a mirror that reveals our true condition (James 1:22-25). Personal reformation requires honest self-examination in light of the Scriptures. The more we engage with God’s Word, the more we see our need for repentance, healing, and renewal.

Just as the reformers saw corruption in the Church and sought to bring it back to biblical truths, so we must identify areas of our personal life where we have strayed from God’s will. Let ask ourselves, “What do I need to reform in my personal walk with God?” Whether it’s pride, materialism, or lack of faith, let the Word of God convict and call us to repentance.

3. Personal Renewal through Scripture (Sanctification)

The Word of God sanctifies us. Jesus said in John 17:17, “Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.” Personal reformation isn’t just about turning away from sin but becoming more like Christ, shaped and molded by His Word.

As we spend time in the Bible, we grow in wisdom, love, and grace. The Holy Spirit uses Scripture to reshape our thoughts, desires, and actions. Romans 12:2 reminds us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The more we immerse ourselves in the truths of the Bible, the more our thinking and character are renewed, leading to real-life transformation.

4. Empowerment for God’s Work

Personal reformation prepares us for service. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 points out, Scripture equips us for every good work. Once the Word of God has reformed and renewed us, we are empowered to fulfill God’s purpose in our lives, not by our own strength, but by the guidance of God’s Word. God’s Word gives us a sense of purpose and direction. It teaches us how to live out our faith in a world that desperately needs the gospel. Personal reformation leads to outward action, where a reformed life bears fruit in service, love, and good works.

5. Constant Reformation through Constant Engagement

Just as the Reformation wasn’t a one-time event, personal reformation is ongoing process. We are constantly being shaped by the Word of God, which is why it is essential to continually engage with it. The more we yield to its teaching, the more we are conformed to the image of Christ. Take the time to regularly study, meditate on, and apply the Word of God. Let it be your foundation, your guide, and your source of personal renewal. Letting the Bible shape and reform us from the inside out. The heart of personal reformation lies in making the Word of God the central force in our lives, allowing it to convict, transform, and equip us for His purposes.

May we all have a very meaningful celebration of Reformation Day not just on 31^st of October but every single day.

By Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi 
A/D Church, Public Relations and Resource Mobilisation

DIMAPUR AUXILIARY

Tseminyu Branch Foundation Day

The Bible Society of India Tseminyu Branch observed its 33^rd Foundation Day on 29^th September 2024 at Assembly of God Church, Tseminyu Town. They had been contributing the highest amount from Nagaland till 2015. They are active supporter of the BSI ministry. This time, altogether twelve Churches participated. Er. Nimo Kath, Branch President moderated the celebration and highlighted the activities of the Branch. He further encouraged Churches to continue to support the ministry of reaching God’s Word to unreached groups of people.

Mr. Those Kraho, Vice President, Dimapur Auxiliary and President of Kohima Branch  brought greetings and the BSI Kohima Branch team presented special song.  The Auxiliary Secretary, Dimapur congratulate them and shared the words of God encouraging them to do the ministry before the return of Jesus Christ.

Nokte Bible Release

The Nokte Bible was released on 13^th October 2024 at Nokte Baptist Asathem Roapkhhoam (NBAR) Mission Centre Poakkoam, Arunachal Pradesh. The releasing ceremony was attended by representatives of 54 Churches under Nokte Baptist Asathem Roapkhhoam, Poakkoam (NBAR).  Rev. Asenjunba Imsong, Former Field Director, NBAR  and Mr. Tialiba, Regional Director, Pacific RIM, Mission International, USA and Shri. Lowangdong (HMLA 57 Borduia Boganpani A/C brought greetings.  Rev. Thokwang Mema, Translator gave translation Report in Nocte language only.

Rev. Dr. Yiepetso Wezah, Auxiliary Secretary, BSI Dimapur released the Nokte Bible (Asathoan Nyapkhaa). He appreciated Advisor Rev. Dr. Along Jamir, the Translator Rev. Thokwang Mema and checking committee members and the sponsor, the Pacific RIM Mission International. He also thanked the leadership of the NBAR and all the Churches for their constant prayer support. He encouraged them to read, meditate upon the words of God as they now have the words of God in their own heart language. He also stated that the Bible is living and active. It is a life changing book and there is no other books in the world that transforms life like that of the Holy Bible. He challenged them that the words of God will never pass away (Mt. 24:35). Jesus gives special task to pray, watch and witness him till he returns to receive the believers. 

The opening Ceremony was chaired by Monlem Wangsu, Mission Coordinator, NBAR. The session was moderated by Mr. Taiwang Wangsa, EXECUTIVE Member, NBAR. Rev. Chonghan Ralongham, Former Field Director, NBAR pronounced opening prayers. Mr. Wange Wangpan, Executive Secretary, NBAR expressed words of welcome. Special songs were presented by NBAR Choir, Khonsa Baptist Church Choir and Poakkoam English School. Vote of thanks was proposed by Nokdon Chimyang, Executive Member, NBAR and the ceremony was closed with mass prayers.

WORLD SIGHT DAY

Theme: “Love your eyes: Seeing through the Eyes of Faith”

World Sight Day has been observed globally on the 2nd October since its inception. The BSI Media, Communication and Information Technology department had prepared the Order of Worship   for this day, to be held throughout our BSI Auxiliaries.  A very éye opening’ message by Mr. Caleb Hilton Martin inspired all the LOGOS staff, to really open their eyes and respond to the needs of those around us.To offer support, kindness and understanding and serve one another, especially those among us who are visually challenged.  Our prayer was “Open our eyes to the beauty and majesty of Your creation, that we may live in awe and gratitude for all that You have made”.

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

World Mental Health Day was observed on October 10, 2024. A special programme was held in all the Auxiliaries of BSI as well as the Central Office. The very meaningful programme/Order of service was prepared by the Kerala Auxiliary. The theme was, “It is time to prioritize mental health in the workplace. Rev.Dr. Kavito G Zhimo, General Secretary of BSI, reflected on this topic in the Central office. In today’s fast paced world, where workplace demands continue to rise, prioritizing mental health in professional settings is crucial.  Faith brings a unique perspective because it draws upon our relationship with God our creator and spiritual nourishment. It inspires us to look foward, believing in a better tomorrow and the possibility of change and making it essential for employers and employees to foster healthy work environments.