“Let the righteous smite me in kindness and reprove me; it is oil upon my head; do not let my head refuse it.” Psalm 141:1-5
“For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well.” James 3:2
“I do not stop being a ‘natural’ person when I pray. I get sleepy, lose concentration, and suffer the same frustrations and miscommunications while conversing with God that I do with other people. When I write on ‘spiritual’ topics, I am not suddenly lifted heavenward by the muses; I still must sharpen pencils, cross out words, consult the dictionary, wad up and throw away countless false starts.” *
Every day we say things we wish we had not said; do things we regret; think things we know immediately are wrong. Most of us determine to do better the next day. We may pray about our “slips” and confess and ask for forgiveness to start the next day fresh. Yet just knowing how easy it is to slip back also helps us be more grateful. Knowing that when we do slip back in word or deed or even heart thought (that no one sees or hears), that Christ’s amazing and loving sacrifice stands guard over our lives once we accept His gift in grace!
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 recovery from the devastating hurricanes: in New Zealand and the Southern states of the USA. 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 volunteers and those restoring their lives after the many global disasters near and far. For Elaine. For Paul N as he regroups. 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 find satisfying work. Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia. Galdor is still searching. Need a new project to tackle for my work. Working on a new book and pursuing a new publisher in the UK for my other book!
PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: My brother & his wife Barb are doing better. They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving. Reg for his ministry and patience.
PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Gwen, a 13-year old with serious headaches. 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
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