Stage 17 Digne-les-Bains / Pra-Loup

As we kneel in prayer this morning the race moves up into the high alps.  Today will be a day of digging deep as they move higher and higher.  Pray as they go.  Today we ride through and up in the Region of Provence-Alpes- Cote d'Azur,  in the fourth department.

Father today we ride in the Alps, so the views of the peaks and down into the valleys  will be beautiful.  Father, we ask once more for your hand to be on the land of France.  We ask for the gospel message to find souls who are ready to receive and believe. Lord, we ask for the boldness of the gospel.  Breakdown every wall that stands against You.  We pray all of this in the name of Jesus.  Amen

Bouches du Rhône

Bouches du Rhône (13) Provence-Alpes-Azur


Lord, we always enjoy coming south to the sea, but today we stop and pray for the families in Bouches du Rhône.  Father, we pray for strong healthy families who seek after You.  We ask for godly fathers and mothers who teach their children about You.  We pray for children with tender hearts who will grown in the knowledge of You.  Thank you for each Church in the department which teach of you and help these family follow you as disciples.  We pray all these things in the name of Jesus.  Amen

Alpes Maritimes

Department Alpes Maritimes (06), in the region of Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur


 Father,  From the sea to the hill we see your hand as our Creator.  The beauty of this rocky land is a  reminder of the foundation you provide when we build our lives on the Rock.  Lord, we pray that the people of this department along the sea will be reminded that You are the rock in which they need to cling to during the storms of life and the Rock that they need to build their lives on for each and every day.   Lord we seek you for each and every soul in this land.  We pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior.  Amen

Alpes de Haute Provence

Department  (04) Alpes de Haute Provence in Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur


Father,  We need you to be our guide through life, just as we would need a guide through the alps.  In Psalm  25:5 David prays, Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.  Lord, we pray this verse for the people living in Alpes de Haute Provence.  Lord, we pray that they will seek you as their guide and Savior.
We pray these words in the name of Jesus our Savior.  Amen.

Étape 13 Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux > Le Cap d'Agde

Fenestrelle Tower

King's Tower and the Bishop's Tower

The name of the Lord is a strong tower;
The righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10

Today on the ride to the coast your will be passing a few towers in the city of  Uzes.  One part of the tour that I enjoy is the pictures from the helicopters as they fly over the country side.  Yesterday there was a cross along side the road that was good to see.  Today, the tour will be heading though Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region and into Languedoc-Roussillon Region, both of these regions have beauty that is enjoyable to watch.  Pray for these regions as they ride. 

Bermonde tower

Lord, your name is a strong tower.  Thank you for providing a safe place in this world.  As we watch the tour today we see strong towers that men have built to keep their kingdoms safe, but we know that our everlasting safety comes because your name is above every name.  We pray that the people of these regions will come to know your name and the safety that comes when we run to you.  We pray all these things in the name of Jesus, our strong tower.  Amen.

Praying for Nice

Nice lies on the the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.  Nice is a city full of people from many nations.  Nice became a city in the 350 BC by the Greeks.  Many people have made this place home.  Bible Baptist Church is located at 32 rue de l'Hotel des postes
06000 Nice, France.  Today remember to pray for the churches here in Nice.  As the sun shines on this shore let us pray that people of here in Nice will see the love of Christ will shine in their hearts. 

Father, we thank you for the beauty of Nice and for the beauty of the people who live here.  Lord, strengthen the churches who lift You up and preach your name.  Draw all men to you as we pray for the city of Nice.  Lord, as Your word is spoken we pray that many will come to know you as their Lord and Savior.  We pray all these things in the name of Jesus.  Amen

Marseille - City of the Day

City Facts

• In the region of Provence -Alpes-Cote d'Azur
• Department Bouches-du-Rhone
• Approximately 1.4 million
• Port city which brings people from all over the world into France
• 34 Evangelical Churches in the city and few more in surrounding areas

Prayer Needs

• In roads into the Muslim population
• Strong unity in the Body of Christ
• Many souls saved this coming year
• Freedom to speak of Christ

Father God,
We praise you for all that you are doing in the city of Marseille.  Thank you for each local church and the people they are able to reach.  Lord, we pray that as people hear of you they will believe that your are the true God.  There are many belief systems in Marseille and very few believe in You.  Lord, this year we ask that the strong hold of disbelief be torn down.  We ask that you will be lifted up so that all will come to you in a saving faith.  Lord, allow the Word of God to be preach and spoken of in common areas of this city.  Let your name be glorified in lives and home.  Lord, we pray for your work to be accomplished in the people of Marseille and the surrounding areas. We pray all these things in the name of Jesus.
Amen

Gap France

As we move more into the Alps we will be going through a pass and stopping and praying for the city of Gap, France


The word gap reminds me of the phrase "Standing in the gap" and I found this verse in Ezekiel 22:30

"I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none.

Standing in the gap on the behalf of France. It seems that this is what God has called us to do. Let us continue to pray for France as a nation but also for individuals that we know or ministries, churches, pastors, and missionaries. In the last year I had to stop working in an urban ministry to let my body heal. I know that many are tired or discouraged in being faithful to what God has called us to, but let us lift each other up and help each other remain faithful. Stand in the gap so the work can continue. Keep up the work. Stand in Him and He will open and close opportunities to serve. Follow His leading.

Lord,

We look at the passage way through the Alps and I know that we have many gaps in ministry around the world. Our weakness and sin has caused these gaps. Lord, forgive us of our sins and strengthen us to be able to stand. Lord, we desire to be your servants and to stand for Truth. Please use us where ever you need us. Equip us so that we can do your calling. We step up in obedience and we desire to do your will.

Lord, send believer to Hautes Alpes, let them stand in the gap so many will hear the gospel. Thank you for the churches in this area. Encourage them to continue, send encouragement to them, let them know that there are people who love them and care about their relationship with you. Bless each believer with your blessing of peace and hope. Let your love be seen in Hautes Alpes.

I pray all these things in the name of the Son, Jesus Christ.

Amen

Digne France

Isaiah 65:1

"I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, 'Here am I, here am I.
 

I found this verse in my studies this morning and it blessed my heart and I wanted to share it with you.  To be honest it created goose bumps and tears because when I think about France and I know as a nation they are not asking for God, they are not seeking Him and they do not call on his name, but yet He promised to reveal Himself and speak to us.  What a great God, He is. 

Dear Father,

Thank you Lord for this promise.  Thank you for revealing yourself to us even when we do not seek you.  Lord, there are so many nations around this world who are not seeking you.  We are in need of you, but we do not realize how desperate our condition is.  We are satisfied to be in our sin and filth.  Save us Lord, Thank you  for seeking us out.  Speak to France today. 

Lord I pray for department 4, Alpes de Haute Provence, and for the city of Digne. I pray that as people come here to rest and relax that they will see that their hearts are empty and are in need of You.  Let them know that you are speaking to them.  Let them hear your words and see your love as they come to this place.  Bring to them Your Salvation. Let France call out to you.

I pray in the name of Jesus.  Amen

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Department 4

We move north leaving the sea and all of its beauty and climb in to the Alps and see more of God's beautiful creation.  In winter you can enjoy skiing and snow boarding and in the summer, wonderful hikes.   Through Google map you are able to see the beauty of this area. 

Lord, Thank you again for your beauty in your creation.  It amazes me how diverse France is in each area and how the landscape shows your handiwork.  Lord, I know that you love us very much and that you desire for men, women, boys and girls to come to know you as their Lord and Savior.  Thank you for paying our debt on the Cross of Calvary and allowing us to have a personal relationship with You, the creator of this world.
Lord, create ways for the gospel message to be preached, taught, and lived here in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.  Lord, I pray that someday soon there will be a gospel preaching church in every city and village in this department.  Thank you for hearing our prayers. 
I pray all of these things in the name of Jesus.  Amen

Alpes-Maritimes Department 6 St Paul de Vence

St Paul de Vence has a witness, through the International Baptist Church. 

Lord, Thank you for this church who is faithful to preach the Gospel each week here in St. Paul de Vence and in Nice.  Lord, thank you for this place and the brothers and sisters who are living before the people in Alpes-Maritmes.  Lord, open doors and opportunities for them to share the good news.  Bring people in their lives who are searching for the love of God.  Allow them to create friendships with their neighbors.  Let your powerful word penetrate hearts and let their lives be changed to your honor and glory.  Thank you again for this light of Christ.  Let the world see and receive your salvation.  I pray all these things in the name of Jesus.  Amen

Department 6 Alpes-Maritimes

Ephesians 3:14-21
A Prayer for the Ephesians


For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Lord, I pray this passage back to you for these are the very things I desire for the Churches in Alpes-Maritimes department 6 here in Provence-Alpes- Cote d'Azur.  Father, thank you for the privilege of praying for others.  I know that you have created the Bride of Christ and we are one body.  I pray that the local Churches in France will see the Holy Spirit move and work among them.  I pray that with repentant hearts we will come before you ready and willing to be servants for your glory.  Let the Churches in Nice and in other cities in this area show that in Christ we are different and that You have given our lives hope, peace, and joy.  Let us live a joy filled life before others so that they will desire to know more and more about God.  I praise you and bless your holy and precious name.  I pray in the beautiful name of Jesus. Amen

Matthania, Eglise Protestante de Toulon

Looking through Department 83 I found a Eglise Protestante de Toulon on their web site I found this camp that they will sending their kids to this summer. It looks like a great place.  Matthania has weeks of vacation or camp for all ages.  Let us be in prayer for churches as they conduct VBS in the summer and as kids go off to camp.  Pray for God to open hearts and let the Holy Spirit have freedom to work in hearts and lives. 

Dear Father,
You have a plan for each of us and you desire for us to be citizens  in Your Kingdom.  Thank you for providing for us to be part of your plan and your Kingdom, but I know that many have not become citizen yet.  Please help them hear how they too may become Children of God. 

Thank you for providing Matthania and Eglise Protestante de Toulon for the people of Toulon.  Bless each of these ministries and the people who faithfully serve you there.  You know very need they have today and I know that all good gift come from you.  Thank you for supplying every one of their needs.  Thank you again and bless them this summer as they work, telling the gospel story. Provide protection and open hearts, and may your will be done.
I pray in the name of Jesus my Lord.
 Amen

Var, Department 83, Toulon

Var is a beautiful department that runs along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea.  Toulon is the home of the French Navy second largest base.  This is a training and repair base along with other functions.  God called Missions to Military here to serve to the French Navy and their families.  They have served in Toulon for over the last thirty years.  Next time you are in Toulon stop by and say hello and thank you to our faithful brothers and sisters in Christ.  

Heavenly Father,

Thank you so much for these missionaries who have faithfully served in the city of Toulon.  I pray that you will encourage them and bless them on this day.  Lift them up and give them the strength and wisdom they need each day to carry out your calling on their lives.  I pray that your will be done in the ministry to the families and sailors of the French Navy.  Open doors for this ministry.  Bring opportunities that they have never had before.  Prepare hearts to hear and receive the gospel of Christ.  Thank you again for their time and obedience to you.  Bless them Father in way that only you can do.  In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen

Bouches du Rhône, Department 13

Here in  Bouches du Rhône there are two International Christian Community one in Marseille and one in Aix en Provence.  ICC mission is to reach the English speaking community with the Gospel and Love of Christ. Please pray for these churches as they live and minister their faith to all those that God brings into their path.

Dear Father,

Thank you for all the churches in Bouches du Rhône. Thank you for each one who is faithful to the preaching and teaching of your Word. Father bless what they do in your name. Let them see a harvest from their labor. Lord, I pray that many will be saved through their obedience to you. Give them strength, wisdom, mercy and love each and everyday.

 Bring Christian to minister with these bodies of believers. I know that ICCP is looking for a Youth Minister. Bring to them your pick, whomever they are prepare them for living in Aix en Provence. Help them to understand the challenges of being a third cultured kid. Lord, bless them as they follow you and serve you in Provence.

Thank you for Dan and Nancy Painter as they serve in Marseille with ICCM.  Be with them as they plan VBS for July 5-9th.  Bring the workers needed and the children to hear about Christ.  Open hearts and bring these children to a saving knowledge and understanding of you.  Thank you for all they do each and every week.  Bless them on this day.

I thank you for ICCM and ICCP and I pray they will grow in the knowledge of You and in your grace. I pray all these things in the name of Jesus my Lord and Savior. Amen

Bouches du Rhône Department 13

Check out Provence Web for great information about Department 13.  On days like today I would love to be in France enjoying a meal at a cafe maybe a walk at the beach or setting in a beautiful garden.  Well I am here in Mobile and God's beauty is here as well. So today we will be faithful to pray.


Marseille is the second largest city in France it has over 800,000 people from all over the world that live here in Marseille. It is an old seaport dating back as early as 600 BC. This port has brought many different people groups and their beliefs here to Marseille.  Muslims make up 25 % of the population here in Marseille.  This year they plan on building a 92,500 square ft. Mosque. 

Let us pray for the Holy Spirit will work and move in the Muslim community.  Many Muslims have no understanding about who Jesus Christ is and how He has died for their sins and would love to be their personal Savior.



Lord, we pray for the Muslim community in Marseille.  Lord, work in hearts and send the labors into this harvest field.  I now that this field is a difficult one with slow progress and little results, but I also know that you love them and died for them and you are willing to send people there to speak of you and share your gospel truth.  Lord, I pray that many will see the need to and you will burden their hearts for the lost.  Lord, Equip them with strength, mercy and love and bless those who are there now doing your will.  Lift them up and encourage them.  We love you and desire for your will to be done in the hearts and lives of those in Marseille, France and in the rest of Bouches du Rhône, France.  In the name of Jesus the true Son of God.  Amen.

Fontaine de Vaucluse Department 84

Here in Vaucluse, France or department 84 in the region of Provence one will find a small medieval town, Fontaine de Vaucluse, which is at the source of a large spring of water.  In the springtime it will gush out as much as 200 cubic meters a second making it a very powerful water source.  No one knows how deep this spring is.  Many have tried to find the bottom but have failed.

Reading about this spring reminds me of the spring of Living Water that flows through each one of us as believers.  Our source is powerful and constant and it is up to us to benefit from the living water that is in us. 

Lord, you are the Living Water and we have no idea how powerful and how deep you are.  Flow through us today.  Let us benefit from the fact that you live in us.  Let others see that we rely on you as our source.  Lord here in Vaucluse you have given us a beautiful picture of you.  Flow through this region and this department.  I pray that many will come to you for the everlasting life that Your living water provides.  You promise that if we believe in you we will never thirst again.  Let the Living water flow through the hearts and lives in France.  I pray in the name of Jesus, my living water.  Amen

Torrents de Vie in Avignon

Avignon is found in the Region of Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Aur. It is found in the department of Vaucluse. Here at France Voyage you can information and pictures of this area. The word Provence bring up many beautiful images, smells and taste. I hope you enjoy our tour though this region in the next few days. Avignon

Here in Avignon Torrents de Vie has a ministry to help people find healing for relationships and sexual brokenness through Jesus. This ministry was founded by Andy Comiskey. Mr. Comiskey was able to be in Avignon last week and he was able to preach at Centre Protestant Evagelique. The message is preached in English and translated into French. I enjoyed listening to his message.

Message by Andy Comiskey here in Avignon.

Lord, I pray for the ministry Torents de Vie here in France. Lord, here in Avignon there is a place for people to come and hear your plan for purity in our lives. Lord, you have called us to be faithful to each other in our marriage and faithful to our Lord. Lord, the world has confused us with its view of love and relationship. Lord, you have created us to love, and as we make a choice to love one and only one as our husband or our wife forever I pray that we will be faithful in mind, body and soul.

 I pray that through this ministry you will open hearts and souls to You. Use your Holy Spirit to convict people of their need for You. Thank you again for Torrents de Vie. Provide for them all their needs. Give them your strength to be faithful in this calling. In Jesus name I pray. Amen

Provence-Alpes- Cote d'Azur and Auvergne

In the next 4 weeks we will be exploring these two regions of France. Cote d'Azur is one of my favorite places. We were able to vacation here for a few days as we backpacked through Europe many years ago.

Enjoy each department for their qualities and God given beauty. Pray for the people of this area to know our Lord and Savior as their own. Encourage the churches and believers that you know in these areas. Thank you again for praying for France.