Thursday, April 14, 2011

Some Good Reasons

“But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ.  More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish,

“in order that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith,

“that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death;” Philippians 3:7-10

“Therefore, ‘Consider it pure joy...whenever you face trials of many kinds,’ writes James, ‘while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials,’ writes Peter; and ‘we also rejoice in our sufferings,’ writes Paul.  The apostles go on to explain what good can result from such ‘redeemed suffering’:   maturity, wisdom, genuine faith, perseverance, character, and many rewards to come.”*

Even if all you ever know in your walk with Christ is that you are loved in your darkest moment regardless of your works -- that you never carry your burdens alone – that Someone DOES understand  – that there is a PERFECT Plan in action around you --these can sustain you through the deepest valleys.

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

No comments: