Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Answer One
“Jesus therefore was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you abide in My Word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.’ John 8:31-32
“’If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you. By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. – These things I have spoken to you that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.
“’You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask of the Father in My name, He may give to you.’” John 15:7-9, 11, 16
“Perhaps God keeps us ignorant because enlightenment might not help us.
“In the Book of Job, God deflects those questions of cause and focuses instead on OUR response of faith. But think what might happen if God did answer the questions forthrightly. We assume that we would bear suffering better if we only KNEW the reason behind in. But would we?
“Knowing is passive, intellectual; suffering is active, personal. No intellectual answer would solve suffering. The Incarnation did not ‘solve’ human suffering, but at least it was an active and personal response.” *
Sometimes it IS about faith in our Father and in His plan. Most times it is just resting in His mighty and loving arms.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
URGENT NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For my brother, Tim in hospital with Influenza-A and chronic pulmonary artery disease (he’s a little better today). For those in & around Christchurch New Zealand after this horrific earthquake! For Elaine who has so many burdens at this time.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for Adam R, who recently lost his grandfather. For those dealing with aftermath of extreme weather patterns in USA, UK, NZ & Australia. For Paul N and his journey. For Cris, that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction. For those in & around Christchurch NZ after the earthquakes. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. David (great health now!).
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Bible Silent Here
“The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not hears.
“The judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yet, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them Thy servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.” Various from Psalm 19
“Much as I resist, I am pushed toward such conclusions by the Book of Job. What IS life so unfair? When DOES God cause suffering and when merely permit it – and what is the difference? Why DOES God sometimes seem silent and sometimes close and intimate?
“I cannot offer answers to Job’s specific questions, because God offered none. I can only ask why God gives no answers, why there must be an Encyclopaedia of Theological Ignorance. Because I am entering in an area on which the Bible stays silent.”*
Tomorrow, the first of two potential answers proposed.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
URGENT NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For my brother, Tim rushed to hospital with Influenza-A and chronic pulmonary artery disease & will be in hospital for a good while now. For those in & around Christchurch New Zealand after this horrific earthquake! For Elaine who has so many burdens at this time.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for Adam R, who recently lost his grandfather. For those dealing with aftermath of extreme weather patterns in USA, UK, NZ & Australia. For Paul N and his journey. For Cris, that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. David (great health now!).
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
“The judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yet, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them Thy servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.” Various from Psalm 19
“Much as I resist, I am pushed toward such conclusions by the Book of Job. What IS life so unfair? When DOES God cause suffering and when merely permit it – and what is the difference? Why DOES God sometimes seem silent and sometimes close and intimate?
“I cannot offer answers to Job’s specific questions, because God offered none. I can only ask why God gives no answers, why there must be an Encyclopaedia of Theological Ignorance. Because I am entering in an area on which the Bible stays silent.”*
Tomorrow, the first of two potential answers proposed.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
URGENT NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For my brother, Tim rushed to hospital with Influenza-A and chronic pulmonary artery disease & will be in hospital for a good while now. For those in & around Christchurch New Zealand after this horrific earthquake! For Elaine who has so many burdens at this time.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for Adam R, who recently lost his grandfather. For those dealing with aftermath of extreme weather patterns in USA, UK, NZ & Australia. For Paul N and his journey. For Cris, that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. David (great health now!).
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Monday, February 21, 2011
Not Enough!
“I sought the Lord, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. The poor man cried and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them.
“O taste and see that the Lord is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! O fear the Lord, you His saints; for to those who fear Him, there is no want. The young lions do lack and suffer hunger; but they who seek the Lord shall not be in want of any good thing. Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
“Who is the man who desires life, and loves length of days that he may see good? – Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but the Lord delivers him out of them all, The Lord redeems the soul of His servants; and none of those who take refuge in Him will be condemned.” Various from Psalm 34
“Quite frankly, for me, God’s evasive reply creates as many problems as it solves. I cannot simply wish the ‘Why?’ questions away.
“God’s refusal to answer Job’s question does not sit well with modern minds. We don’t like it – I don’t like being told something is beyond our grasp.
“Why is life so unfair? Why does God cause suffering and when merely permit it – and what IS the difference? Why does God sometimes seem silent and sometimes close and intimate?”*
Most of us have seen tragedy, heartbreak or loss of one kind or another. Think of those times and how you discovered after you were through the pain, that amazing and wonderful things WERE happening during this time for you, AS you walked through it.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
URGENT NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For my brother, Tim who was rushed to the hospital in the early morning hours. For Elaine who has so many burdens at this time.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for Adam R, who recently lost his grandfather. For those dealing with aftermath of extreme weather patterns in USA, UK, NZ & Australia. For Paul N and his journey. For Cris, that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction. For those in & around Christchurch NZ after the earthquakes. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. David (great health now!).
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
“O taste and see that the Lord is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! O fear the Lord, you His saints; for to those who fear Him, there is no want. The young lions do lack and suffer hunger; but they who seek the Lord shall not be in want of any good thing. Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
“Who is the man who desires life, and loves length of days that he may see good? – Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but the Lord delivers him out of them all, The Lord redeems the soul of His servants; and none of those who take refuge in Him will be condemned.” Various from Psalm 34
“Quite frankly, for me, God’s evasive reply creates as many problems as it solves. I cannot simply wish the ‘Why?’ questions away.
“God’s refusal to answer Job’s question does not sit well with modern minds. We don’t like it – I don’t like being told something is beyond our grasp.
“Why is life so unfair? Why does God cause suffering and when merely permit it – and what IS the difference? Why does God sometimes seem silent and sometimes close and intimate?”*
Most of us have seen tragedy, heartbreak or loss of one kind or another. Think of those times and how you discovered after you were through the pain, that amazing and wonderful things WERE happening during this time for you, AS you walked through it.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
URGENT NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For my brother, Tim who was rushed to the hospital in the early morning hours. For Elaine who has so many burdens at this time.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for Adam R, who recently lost his grandfather. For those dealing with aftermath of extreme weather patterns in USA, UK, NZ & Australia. For Paul N and his journey. For Cris, that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction. For those in & around Christchurch NZ after the earthquakes. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. David (great health now!).
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Thursday, February 17, 2011
You COULD explain!
“Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind and said, ‘Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Now gird up your loins like a man and I will ask you, and you instruct Me!
“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who set its measurements, since you know? Or who stretched the line on it? On what were its bases sunk? Or who laid its cornerstone when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?
“Then the Lord said to Job, ‘Will the faultfinder content with the Almighty? Let him who reproves God answer it.’” Job 38:1-7, 40:1-2
“In his book ‘Wishful Thinking’, Frederick Buechner sums up God’s speech. ‘God doesn’t explain. He explodes. He asks Job who he thinks he is anyway. He says that to try to explain the kind of things Job wants explained would be like trying to explain Einstein to a little-neck clam....God doesn’t reveal his grand design, He reveals himself.’”*
Job represents us! His questions hide in all our hearts: ‘Why my parent/ sibling/ friend? Why me? Why now? What is this? How come? Where? When? Why? Why? Why?’
His plan doesn’t HAVE to make sense to you and me. It may sound vacuous or silly to say, He knows; and you can trust Him because He loves you as no other ever will, even with your warts and will! But THAT IS the truth! We live in a world where the opposite shows itself far too often, but we can’t confuse life with God!
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Adam R, who just lost his grandfather. For Paul N and his journey. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help. For Adrian, new challenges - that his friends will be there for him. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for those in & around Christchurch NZ after the earthquakes. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Even NOW? !!!
“And one of the scribes came and heard them arguing, and recognising that He had answered them well, asked Him, ‘What commandment is the foremost of all?’
“Jesus answered, ‘The foremost is, ‘Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is one Lord, and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’
“’The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.’” Mark 12:28-31
“’To be commanded to love God at all, let alone in the wilderness, is like being commanded to be well when we are sick, to sing for joy while we are dying with thirst, to run when our legs are broken. But this is the first and great commandment nonetheless. Even in the wilderness – ESPECIALLY in the wilderness – you shall love Him.’” *
I have never met anyone without a “wilderness” experience...a time of extraordinary growth from either a physical or emotional challenge in their life. I just keep coming back to the concept that we can’t confuse life with God.
“In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation (complete, perfect payment) for our sins.” I John 4:10
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Adam R, who just lost his grandfather. For Paul N and his journey. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help. For Adrian, seriously ill living where the floods have taken his home. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor moving to a new city in hopes of finding a good job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well from head injury. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Another Saturday
“And Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock; and he rolled a large stone against the entrance of the tomb and went away. And Mary Magdalene was there and the other Mary, sitting opposite the grave.
“Now on the next day, which is the one after the preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered together with Pilate and said, ‘Sir, we remember that when He was still alive that deceiver said, ‘After three days I am to rise again.’ Therefore, give orders for the grave to be made secure until the third day, lest the disciples come and steal Him away and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead,’ and the last deception will be worse than the first.’
“Pilate said to them, ‘You have a guard; go, make it as secure as you know how.’ And they went and made the grave secure, and along with the guard they set a seal on the stone.” Matthew 28:59-66
“A friend of mine, struggling to believe in a loving God amid much pain and sorrow, blurted out this statement: ‘God’s only excuse is Easter!’ The language is non-theological and harsh, but within that phrase lies a haunting truth. The Cross of Christ may have overcome evil, but it did not overcome unfairness. For that, Easter is required. Someday, God will restore all physical reality to its proper place under His reign. Until then, it is a good thing to remember that we live out our days on Easter Saturday.”*
On that Saturday, there was tenderness, determination, mourning, deceit, activity, resignation, direction, arrogance, hope and great sadness. Just like any other Saturday actually. But wait, as they say, there’s more!
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Adam R, who just lost his grandfather. For Paul N and his journey. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well from head injury. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
“Now on the next day, which is the one after the preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered together with Pilate and said, ‘Sir, we remember that when He was still alive that deceiver said, ‘After three days I am to rise again.’ Therefore, give orders for the grave to be made secure until the third day, lest the disciples come and steal Him away and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead,’ and the last deception will be worse than the first.’
“Pilate said to them, ‘You have a guard; go, make it as secure as you know how.’ And they went and made the grave secure, and along with the guard they set a seal on the stone.” Matthew 28:59-66
“A friend of mine, struggling to believe in a loving God amid much pain and sorrow, blurted out this statement: ‘God’s only excuse is Easter!’ The language is non-theological and harsh, but within that phrase lies a haunting truth. The Cross of Christ may have overcome evil, but it did not overcome unfairness. For that, Easter is required. Someday, God will restore all physical reality to its proper place under His reign. Until then, it is a good thing to remember that we live out our days on Easter Saturday.”*
On that Saturday, there was tenderness, determination, mourning, deceit, activity, resignation, direction, arrogance, hope and great sadness. Just like any other Saturday actually. But wait, as they say, there’s more!
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Adam R, who just lost his grandfather. For Paul N and his journey. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well from head injury. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Monday, February 14, 2011
Primal Desire for Fairness
“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. And I saw the Holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He shall dwell among then, and they shall be His people and God Himself shall be among them.
“And He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there shall no longer be any death; there shall no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.’
“And He who sits on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new,’ and He said, ‘Write, for these words are faithful and true.’” Revelation 21:1-5
“The primal desire for fairness dies hard, and it should. Who among us does not sometimes yearn for more justice in this world here and now? But if I stake my faith on – a fault-proof earth, my faith will let me down. Even the greatest of miracles do not resolve the problems of this earth.
“We need more than miracles. We need a new Heaven and a new earth, and until we have those, unfairness will NOT disappear.”*
We need the love and grace and forgiveness of our Creator God! Nothing else will do!
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Adam R, who just lost his grandfather. For Paul N, who seems to think giving up is easier than the struggle. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for: Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor moving to a new city to find the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE and THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well from head injury. Earl grows stronger every day! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
“And He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there shall no longer be any death; there shall no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.’
“And He who sits on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new,’ and He said, ‘Write, for these words are faithful and true.’” Revelation 21:1-5
“The primal desire for fairness dies hard, and it should. Who among us does not sometimes yearn for more justice in this world here and now? But if I stake my faith on – a fault-proof earth, my faith will let me down. Even the greatest of miracles do not resolve the problems of this earth.
“We need more than miracles. We need a new Heaven and a new earth, and until we have those, unfairness will NOT disappear.”*
We need the love and grace and forgiveness of our Creator God! Nothing else will do!
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Adam R, who just lost his grandfather. For Paul N, who seems to think giving up is easier than the struggle. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for: Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor moving to a new city to find the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE and THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well from head injury. Earl grows stronger every day! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Is God Unfair?
“’My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me? Far from my deliverance are the worlds of my groaning. O my God, I cry by day, but Thou dost not answer; and by night, but I have no rest. – I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within me. My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue cleaves to my jaws; and Thou dost lay me in the dust of death.
“But Thou, O Lord, be not far off; O Thou my help, hasten to my assistance.’” Psalm 22:1-2, 14—15, 19
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me, Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life. And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:4-6
“Is God unfair? The answer depends on how closely we identify God and life. Surely life on earth is unfair. “At once, the Cross revealed what kind of world we have and what kind of God we have: a world of gross unfairness, a God of sacrificial love.
“No one is exempt from tragedy or disappointment – God Himself was not exempt. Jesus offered no immunity, no way out of unfairness, but rather a way through it to the other side.
“The primal desire for fairness dies hard, and it should. But if I stake my faith on such a fault-proof earth, my faith will let me down.”*
Take time this weekend to consider a new perspective about “unfairness”.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Adam R, who just lost his grandfather. For Paul N, who seems to think giving up is easier than the struggle. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well from head injury. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
“But Thou, O Lord, be not far off; O Thou my help, hasten to my assistance.’” Psalm 22:1-2, 14—15, 19
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me, Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life. And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:4-6
“Is God unfair? The answer depends on how closely we identify God and life. Surely life on earth is unfair. “At once, the Cross revealed what kind of world we have and what kind of God we have: a world of gross unfairness, a God of sacrificial love.
“No one is exempt from tragedy or disappointment – God Himself was not exempt. Jesus offered no immunity, no way out of unfairness, but rather a way through it to the other side.
“The primal desire for fairness dies hard, and it should. But if I stake my faith on such a fault-proof earth, my faith will let me down.”*
Take time this weekend to consider a new perspective about “unfairness”.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Adam R, who just lost his grandfather. For Paul N, who seems to think giving up is easier than the struggle. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well from head injury. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Move Me Closer!
“And He withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and began to pray, saying, ‘Father, if Thou art willing, remove this cup from Me, yet not My will, but Thine be done.’
“Now an angel from heaven appeared to Him, strengthening Him. And being in agony He was praying very fervently; and His sweat became like drops of blood, falling down upon the ground.
And when He rose from prayer, He came to the disciples and found them sleeping from sorrow, and said to them, ‘Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation.’
“While He was still speaking, behold, a multitude came. The one called Judas, one of the twelve, was preceding them; and he approached Jesus to kiss Him. But Jesus said to him, ‘Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?’” Luke 22:41-48
“I went through the Gospels again, wondering how Jesus would have answered the direct question, ‘Is life unfair?’ Nowhere did I find Him denying unfairness.
“When Jesus encountered a sick person, he never delivered a lecture about ‘accepting your lot in life’ He healed whoever approached Him. And His scathing words about the rich and powerful of His day show clearly what He thought about social inequities.
“The Son of God reacted to life’s unfairness much like anybody else. When He met a person in pain, He was deeply moved with compassion. When His friend Lazarus died, He wept. When Jesus Himself faced suffering, He recoiled from it, asking three times if there was any other way.”*
If anything, the crucifixion moved us closer to the Father with an intimacy no other faith enjoys!
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Adam R, who just lost his grandfather. For Paul N, who seems to think giving up is easier than the struggle. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: I may have a new publisher in the USA for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Contract Faith
’All things have been handed over to ME by My Father; and no one knows the Son, except the Father; nor does anyone know the Father, except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.
“’Come to me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your soul. For My yoke is easy, and My load is light.’” Matthew 11:27-30
“In doing so, their faith moved from a ‘contract faith’ – I’ll follow God if He treats me well – to a relationship that could transcend any hardship.
Douglas continued, ‘I challenge you to go home and read again the story of Jesus. Was life ‘fair’ to Him? For me, the cross demolished for all time the basic assumption that life will be fair.’” *
Almost all of us bargain with God, hoping our gamble with the Divine will give us big winnings. It is likely we do not think of it this way, but that’s what we do, when we don’t get what we want or think we deserve -- because it’s easy to blame the Father. Yet, each of us has the choice moment-by-moment to follow Him or wander off down another rabbit trail. And He doesn’t stop us, He just walks beside us patiently waiting for the realisation of His love to strike us.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, you might just page back through previous prayer requests and see the hand of our loving Father in action! Alsom for any of you who noticed my absence last week, and yesterday too, the technical challenges from the weather here are continuing.
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For those dealing with amazingly extreme weather patterns this year in the USA and UK. For Paul N, who seems to think giving up is easier than the struggle. For Cris, dealing with things no one but the Father understands perfectly: that she will reach out for help. For those in Queensland and Victoria as they pick up the pieces of their lives after the floods and Category 5 Cyclone and for all the volunteers helping now. For Adrian, seriously ill living where the floods have taken his home. Jim and Elaine, as they search for a new direction.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for those in & around Christchurch NZ after the earthquakes. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: Reg for his ministry and his patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Thursday, February 3, 2011
God vs. Life!
“Where can I go from Thy Spirit? Or where can I flee from Thy presence? If I ascend to heaven, Thou art there; if I make my bed in Sheol, behold Thou art there. If I take the wings of the dawn, if I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, even there Thy hand will lead me, and Thy Right hand will lay hold of me.
“If I say, ‘Surely the darkness will overwhelm me, and the light around me will be night,’ even the darkness is not dark to Thee, and the night is as bright as the day. Darkness and light are alike to Thee.
“For Thou didst form my inward parts; Thou didst weave me in my mother’s womb. My frame was not hidden from Thee, when I was made in secret, and skilfully wrought in the depths of the earth. Thine eyes have seen my unformed substance; and in Thy book they were all written. The days that were ordained for me, when as yet there was not one of them.” Psalm 139:7-13, 15-16
“Dr. Paul Brand’s answer to the question, Where is God when it hurts? ‘He is in you, the one hurting, not in it, the thing that hurts.’”
Douglas continues from yesterday: ‘If we develop a relationship with God apart from our life circumstances, then we are able to hang on when the physical reality breaks down. We can learn to trust God DESPITE all the fairness of life.
God’s guarantees of physical success – health, prosperity, and military victory – did nothing to help the Israelites’ spiritual performance.
It comes down to trusting that He is the God he is. Enjoy the weekend friends.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, you might just page back through previous prayer requests and see the hand of our loving Father in action! Also for any of you who noticed my absence last week, I had a few challenges that kept me from here. Thank you for your extra prayers.
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Cris, who is struggling with things no one but the Father understands perfectly, that she will reach out for help from others here. For those in Queensland as they struggle through this Category 5 Cyclone and those still dealing with the devastation of the floods there. For Adrian who was in Ipswitch, one of the hardest hit by floods – he’s lost his home and has been seriously ill. Jim and Elaine as they search for a new direction. For me as I search for lost papers.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for those in & around Christchurch NZ after the earthquakes. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son). Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: Reg for his ministry and his patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
“If I say, ‘Surely the darkness will overwhelm me, and the light around me will be night,’ even the darkness is not dark to Thee, and the night is as bright as the day. Darkness and light are alike to Thee.
“For Thou didst form my inward parts; Thou didst weave me in my mother’s womb. My frame was not hidden from Thee, when I was made in secret, and skilfully wrought in the depths of the earth. Thine eyes have seen my unformed substance; and in Thy book they were all written. The days that were ordained for me, when as yet there was not one of them.” Psalm 139:7-13, 15-16
“Dr. Paul Brand’s answer to the question, Where is God when it hurts? ‘He is in you, the one hurting, not in it, the thing that hurts.’”
Douglas continues from yesterday: ‘If we develop a relationship with God apart from our life circumstances, then we are able to hang on when the physical reality breaks down. We can learn to trust God DESPITE all the fairness of life.
God’s guarantees of physical success – health, prosperity, and military victory – did nothing to help the Israelites’ spiritual performance.
It comes down to trusting that He is the God he is. Enjoy the weekend friends.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, you might just page back through previous prayer requests and see the hand of our loving Father in action! Also for any of you who noticed my absence last week, I had a few challenges that kept me from here. Thank you for your extra prayers.
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For Cris, who is struggling with things no one but the Father understands perfectly, that she will reach out for help from others here. For those in Queensland as they struggle through this Category 5 Cyclone and those still dealing with the devastation of the floods there. For Adrian who was in Ipswitch, one of the hardest hit by floods – he’s lost his home and has been seriously ill. Jim and Elaine as they search for a new direction. For me as I search for lost papers.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for those in & around Christchurch NZ after the earthquakes. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son). Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: Reg for his ministry and his patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
God Is NOT Life!
“And Jesus seeing their faith, said to the paralytic, ‘My son, your sins are forgiven.’ But there were some of the scribes sitting there and reasoning in their hearts, ‘Why does this man speak that way? He is blaspheming; who can forgive sins but God alone?
“And immediately Jesus aware in His spirit that they were reasoning that way within themselves, said to them, ‘Why are you reasoning about these things in your hearts? Which is easier to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven’; or to say, ‘Arise and take up your pallet and walk?’” Mark 2:5-9
As Philip Yancy researched his book, he interviewed many. One particular, Job-like man, called Douglas held the key.. When asked the question about disappointment with God, he answered,
“’To tell you the truth, Philip, I didn’t feel any disappointment with God. The reason is, I learned, not to confuse God with life. I’m no stoic. I am upset about what happened to me as anyone could be. I feel free to curse the unfairness of life and to vent all my grief and anger. But I believe God feels the same way about the accident – grieved and angry. I don’t blame Him for what happened.
“‘I have learned to see beyond the physical reality of this world to the spiritual reality. We tend to think, life should be fair because God is fair. But God is not life. And if I confuse God with the physical reality of life- by expecting constant good health, for example – then I set myself for a crashing disappointment.
“But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The lord is NOT slow about His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” II Peter 3:8-9
Trusting God to know His plan for our world and for us, is a life-long quest.
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, you might just page back through previous prayer requests and see the hand of our loving Father in action! Also for any of you who noticed my absence last week, I had a few challenges that kept me from here. Thank you for your extra prayers.
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: For those in Queensland as they struggle through this Category 5 Cyclone. Those still dealing with the devastation of the floods here. For Adrian who was in Ipswitch, one of the hardest hit by floods – he’s lost his home and has been seriously ill. Jim and Elaine as they search for a new direction. For me as I search for lost papers.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for those in & around Christchurch NZ after the earthquakes. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son). Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: Reg for his ministry and his patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/) Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Five Options - Five
“You will say to me then, ‘Why does He still find fault? For who resists His will?’ On the contrary, who are you, O man, who answers back to God? The thing moulded will not say to the moulder, ‘Why did you make me like this.’ Will it? Or does not the potter have a right over the clay, to make from the same lump one vessel for honourable use, and another for common use? What if God, although willing to demonstrate His wrath and to make His power known, prepared for destruction? And He did so in order that He might make known the riches of His glory upon vessels of mercy, which He prepared beforehand for glory,” Romans 9:19-24a
“And finally, there is one more way to explain the world’s unfairness. After hearing all the alternates, Job was driven to the conclusion I have suggested as the one-sentence summary of the entire book: Live is unfair! It came to Job more as a reflex reaction than a philosophy of life, and that is how it strikes anyone who suffers. ‘Why me? We ask. ‘What have I done?’”
Life is difficult. Life is unfair. Yet we must know God’s plan includes us in ways we can never imagine and for the most part will never know. Think about how others see your walk this day and remember He loves you immensely!
Take care with love, especially His! Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene
PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY? For those in Queensland as they prepare for a Category 4-5 Cyclone.
For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, you might just page back through previous prayer requests and see the hand of our loving Father in action! Also for any of you who noticed my absence last week, I had a few challenges that kept me from here. Thank you for your extra prayers.
NEW PRAYER REQUEST: Those in Australia dealing with the devastation of the floods. For Adrian who was in Ipswitch, one of the hardest hit by floods – he’s lost his home and has been seriously ill. Jim and Elaine as they search for a new direction. For me as I search for lost papers.
OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Please continue to pray for those in & around Christchurch NZ after the earthquakes. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son). Michael.
ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Galdor needs the right job, not just a job.
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: Reg for his ministry and his patience. Jo has work now to help with those affected by the earthquakes in NZ. My friend’s wedding will proceed. Sue, is making slow progress against paraneoplastic syndrome. David (great health now!). Nancy, continues to progress well. Earl grows stronger every day now! The other Nancy is doing well against her cancer.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.
*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey
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