In HIM !

“IN HIM, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us. In all wisdom and insight He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed IN HIM with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things upon the earth.

“IN HIM also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will, to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ should be to the praise of His glory.

“IN HIM, you also, after listening to the message of Truth, the Gospel of your salvation – having also believed you were sealed IN HIM with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory.” Ephesians 1:7-14

“In my study of the Bible, I was struck by a radical shift in its authors’ attitudes about suffering, a shift that traces directly back to the Cross. When New Testament writers speak of hard times, they express none of the indignation that characterised Job, the prophets, and many of the psalmists. They offer no real explanation for suffering, but keep pointing to two events – the death and resurrection of Jesus – as if they form some kind of pictographic answer.”*

There is no hope in any other – just IN HIM! Think on that this week.

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 REQUESTS: For Gwen, a 13-year old with serious headaches. For the ongoing difficulties in Japan after the earthquake and Tsunami, where issue of a nuclear disaster continues; and especially for the thousands of volunteers continuing to battle tirelessly to help others restore their lives. For Middle Eastern nations dealing with unprecedented internal conflicts.

For the rest of the world to stay calm with regard to war, 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 restoring their lives after the earthquakes and floods in New Zealand; 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. Galdor is still searching.

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