Contradiction to Faith

"Now it came about after these things, that God tested Abraham, and said to him, ‘Abraham!” And he said, ‘Here I am.’ And He said, ‘Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah; and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you.’” Genesis 22:1-2

“The deepest faith, what I have called fidelity, sprouts at a point of contradiction, like a blade of grass between stones. Human beings grow by striving, working, stretching; and in a sense, human nature needs problems more than solutions. Why are not all prayers answered magically and instantly? Why must every convert travel the same tedious path of [personal] spiritual discipline? Because persistent prayer, and fasting, and study, and meditation are designed primarily for our sakes, not for God’s”

“So Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him and Isaac his son; and he split wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place of which God had told him.” Genesis 22:3

Can you imagine how long that night was that Abraham had to wait through? Can you imagine how Abraham might have wrestled with his confusion, resentment, fear to faith that took action? There is a way that seems right to man, but God loves us and has a plan for our lives that far exceeds anything we can imagine!

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 REQUESTS: For those devastated by the amazing power of the earthquake and Tsunami in Japan, where issue of a nuclear disaster continues, especially for the thousands of volunteers tirelessly battling unbelievable scenes to help others in many areas restore their lives. For Middle Eastern nations dealing with unprecedented internal conflicts.

For the rest of the world to stay calm with regard to the economy and most of all for all who are believers to pray and help others have peace during this time. What a time for believers!

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: For those dealing with aftermath of the earthquake in New Zealand and with the extreme weather in USA, UK, NZ & Australia, especially Adrian & Jo & Steve. For Elaine. For Darryl & Paul N as they regroup. Help for Cris. Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. [For my Internet connection which continues to cause me untold problems.]

ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might also find satisfying work. Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: My brother & his wife, Barb are doing better. They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving. Pursuing a new publisher in the UK for my book! Reg for his ministry and patience.

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 Tim, Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.



*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey