Instruct Me - Assignment

“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 f 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 sand together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?”  Job 38:1-7

“Then the Lord answered Job out of the storm and said, ‘Now gird up your loins like a man; I will ask you and you instruct Me.  ‘Will you really annul My judgment?  Will you condemn Me that you may be justified?  Or do you have an arm like God, and can you thunder with a voice like His?’” Job 40:6-9

“When we stubbornly cling to God in a time of hardship, or when we simply pray, more – much more –may be involved more than we ever dream.  It requires faith to believe that, and faith to trust that we are never abandoned, no matter how distant God seems.

“At the end, when he heard the Voice from the whirlwind, Job finally attained that faith.  God reeled of natural phenomena that Job could not begin to explain.  If you can’t comprehend the visible world you live in, how dare you expect to comprehend a world you cannot even see!  Conscious of the big picture at last, Job repented in dust and ashes.”*

Assignment:  Make a little time this weekend to read Job 38-42:6.  If possible, for your own extra edification take a piece of paper and write a list of each of the amazing attributes of God that He speaks of here!  Have a good weekend!

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:   ?

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had surgery, needs prayer that his body continues to heal.   For Susan in Bulgaria, struggling to provide for her husband and two children.

Those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers in Japan, USA and New Zealand.  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I 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:  Galdor got a wonderful job!  Kimberly is home with her parents now.  My brother & his wife Barb are doing better.  They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving.  Reg for his ministry and patience.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

Perspective

“But the prince of the kingdom of Persia was withstanding me for twenty-one days; then behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to me, for I had been left there with the kings of Persia.  Now I have come to give you an understanding of what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision pertains to the days yet future.’ 

“Then this one with human appearance touched me again and strengthened me.  And he said, ‘O  man of high esteem, do not be afraid.  Peace be with you; take courage and be courageous!’” Daniel 10:13-14m 18-19a

“The prophet Daniel had a mild – in comparison with Job’s – encounter with the hiddenness of God.  Daniel [dedicated 21 days of sacrificial prayer] puzzled over why was God ignoring his repeated requests? – Then one day he got far more than he bargained for.  A supernatural being, with eyes like flaming torches and a face like lightening, suddenly showed up on a riverbank beside him.

“The visitor proceeded to explain the reason for the long delay.  He had been dispatched to answer Daniel’s very first prayer, but had run into strong resistance from ‘the prince of the Persian kingdom.’  Finally after a three-week standoff, reinforcements [from God] arrived.”*

“But do not let this one face 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

This is the paradigm shift that occurs once you step over the line of doubt into faith in the gracious gift of our Lord Jesus Christ – that His perspective is different from yours, yet respectful of yours because He does understand and He is motivated by sacrificial and unconditional love! 

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:   ?

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had surgery, needs prayer that his body continues to heal.   For Susan in Bulgaria, struggling to provide for her husband and two children.

Those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers in Japan, USA and New Zealand.  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I 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:  Galdor got a wonderful job!  Kimberly is home with her parents now.  My brother & his wife Barb are doing better.  They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving.  Reg for his ministry and patience.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

Open Your Eyes!

“So a second time they called the man who had been blind, and said to hi, ‘Give glory to God we know that this man is a sinner.’  He therefore answered, ‘Whether He is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I do know, that whereas I was blind, now I see.’ 

“They said therefore to him, ‘What did He do to you?  How did He open your eyes?’ 

“He answered them, ‘I told you already and you did not listen; why do you want to hear it again?  You do not want to become His disciples too, do you?’ 

“And they reviled him, and said, ‘You are His disciple, but we are disciples of Moses; but as for this man, we do not know where He is from.’ 

“The man answered and said to them, ‘Well, here is an amazing thing that you do not know where He is from, and yet He opened my eyes.  We know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is God-fearing, and does His will, He hears him.  Since the beginning of time it has never been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind.  If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.’

“They answered and said to him, ‘You were born entirely in sins, and you are teaching us?’  And they put him out.”  John 10:24-27

“From Job, we can learn that much more is going on out there than we may suspect.  Job felt the weight of God’s absence; but a look behind the curtain reveals that in one sense God had never been more present.  In the natural world, human beings only receive about 20 percent of the light spectrum.  (Honeybees and homing pigeons can, for example, detect ultraviolet waves invisible to us.)  In the supernatural realm, our vision is even more limited, and we get only occasional glimpses of that unseen world.”*

In our darkest, blindest and most confusing, helpless moments, the Light of the Truth of God’s amazing grace shines clearly.  Will you open your eyes today to see or remember just how much love surrounds you? 

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:   ?

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had surgery, needs prayer that his body continues to heal.   For Susan in Bulgaria, struggling to provide for her husband and two children.

Those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers in Japan, USA and New Zealand.  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I 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:  Galdor got a wonderful job!  Kimberly is home with her parents now.  My brother & his wife Barb are doing better.  They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving.  Reg for his ministry and patience.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

Still Is!

“And one of the crowd answered Him, ‘Teacher, I brought You my son, possessed with a spirit which makes him mute; and whenever it seizes him, it dashes him to the ground and he foams at the mouth, and grinds his teeth and stiffens out.  And I told Your disciples to cast it out, and they could not do it.’  And He answered them and said, ‘O unbelieving generation, how long shall I be with you?  How long shall I put up with you?  Bring him to Me!’

“And He asked his father, ‘How long has this been happening to him?’  And he said, ‘From childhood.  And it has often thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him.  But if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us!’ 

“And Jesus said to him, ‘If You can!’  All things are possible to him who believes.’  Immediately the boy’s father cried out and began saying, ‘I do believe; help my unbelief.’” Mark 9:17-24

“But when He heard this, He said, ‘It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick.  But go and learn what this means, ‘I desire compassion, and not sacrifice,’ for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.’” Matthew 9:12-13

“By no means can we infer that our own trials are like Job’s, specially arranged by Go to settle some decisive issue in the universe.  But we can safely assume that our limited range of vision will in similar fashion distort reality.  Pain narrows vision.  The most private of sensations, it forces us to think of ourselves and little else.”*

Can you imagine this father...all he wanted was for his child to be healed...there is nothing like watching someone you love suffer and how fearful he was that the situation was hopeless.  Confronted by the One, the father is humbled to know that he still has doubts.  Yet through it all, God’s grace was that day, greater than all the unbelief.  It still is!

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:   ?

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had surgery, needs prayer that his body continues to heal.   For Susan in Bulgaria, struggling to provide for her husband and two children.

Those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers in Japan, USA and New Zealand.  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I 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:  Galdor got a wonderful job!  Kimberly is home with her parents now.  My brother & his wife Barb are doing better.  They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving.  Reg for his ministry and patience.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

Family Privilege

“Jesus therefore said to them again, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep.  All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them.  I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.   The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy; I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly.’”  John 10:7-10

“The ‘behind the curtain’ view of proceedings in the unseen world of Job shows that an encounter with the hiddenness of God may badly mislead.  It may tempt us to see God as the enemy and to interpret His hiddenness as a lack of concern. 

I remember being in weekly Bible studies with Kay Arthur.  She used to say that “we are all caught shaking our fists at God” when things are confusing, painful, disappointing, “wrong” (such as a natural disaster) because it is the privilege of being family!  I think that is why God gave us families...so we can begin to understand fledgling intimacy we will enjoy when we enter His family.  Have a good 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, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:   ?

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had surgery, needs prayer that his body continues to heal.   For Susan in Bulgaria, struggling to provide for her husband and two children.

Those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers in Japan, USA and New Zealand.  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I 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:  Galdor got a wonderful job!  Kimberly is home with her parents now.  My brother & his wife Barb are doing better.  They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving.  Reg for his ministry and patience.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

The Bold Message

“Then Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him until daybreak.  And when he saw that he had not prevailed against him, he touched the socket of his thigh; so the socket of Jacob’s thigh was dislocated while he wrestled with him.  Then he said, ‘Let me go, for the dawn is breaking.’  But he said, ‘I will not let you go unless you bless me.’  So he said to him, ‘What is your name?’  And he said, ‘Jacob.’

“And he said, ‘Your name shall no longer be Jacob, but Israel; for you have striven with God and with men and have prevailed.’  Then Jacob asked him and said, ‘Please tell me your name.’  But he said, ‘What is it that you ask my name?’  And he blessed him there.  So Jacob named the place Peniel, for he said, ‘I have seen God face-to-face, yet my life has been preserved.’” Genesis 32:24-30

“One bold message of the Book of Job is that you can say anything to God.  Throw at Him your grief, your anger, your doubt, your bitterness, your betrayal, your disappointment – He can absorb them all.  As often as not, spiritual giants of the Bible are shown contenting with God.  They prefer to go away limping, like Jacob, rather than to shut God out.”*

Do you remember the first time you actually stomped your feet at God...after you realised He was your Lord?  To know He had the power to crush you and still you stood there and screamed your anger or pain or confusion or distrust at him with all your might and He listened!  That is another form of Grace I think.

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:   ?

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had surgery, needs prayer that his body continues to heal.   For Susan in Bulgaria, struggling to provide for her husband and two children.

Do not forget those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers, in Japan, USA and New Zealand).  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I 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:  Galdor got a wonderful job!  Kimberly is home with her parents now.  My brother & his wife Barb are doing better.  They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving.  Reg for his ministry and patience.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

Second Response

“I loathe my own life; I will give full vent to my complaint; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul. I will say to God, ‘Do not condemn me; let me know WHY Thou dost contend with me.  It is RIGHT for Thee indeed to oppress, to reject the labour of Thy hands, and to look favourably on the schemes of the wicked? 

“Hast Thou eyes of flesh?  Or doest Thou see as a man sees?  Are Thy days as the days of a mortal, or Thy years as a man’s years, that Thou should’st seek for my guilt, and search after my sin?  According to Thy knowledge I am indeed not guilty; yet there is no deliverance from Thy hand.”  Job 10:1-7

“The second response, Job’s, was a rambling mess, a jarring counterpoint to his friends’ relentless logic.  ‘Why then did you bring me out of the womb?’ he demanded of God.  ‘I wish I had died before any eve ever saw me.’  Job lashed out in protest he knew to be futile, like a bird repeatedly hurling itself against a window pane. 

“He had few sound arguments, and even admitted that his friends’ logic sounded right.   He wavered, contradicted himself, backtracked, and sometimes collapsed in despair.  The man renowned for his righteousness railed against God:  ‘Turn away from me so I can have a moment’s joy before I go to the place of no return, to the land of gloom and deep shadow.’”*

Maybe those words are unfamiliar to your own heart, but I have spoken them in my life.  And yet, reminding me that His grace covers me in those moments is not just humbling, it’s encouraging and uplifting.  Who could love me more and through EVERY step I have ever taken – even the ones no one will ever know about?  Now there is yet another miracle that gives me hope!  How about you?

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:   ?

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had surgery, needs prayer that his body continues to heal.   For Susan in Bulgaria, struggling to provide for her husband and two children.

Do not forget those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers, in Japan, USA and New Zealand).  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I 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:  Galdor got a wonderful job!  Kimberly is home with her parents now.  My brother & his wife Barb are doing better.  They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving.  Reg for his ministry and patience.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

Casting Stones

“But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives.  And early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people were coming to Him; and He sat down and began to teach them. 

“And the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the midst, they said to Him, ‘Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act.  Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; what then do You say?’ 

“And they were saying this testing Him, in order that they might have grounds for accusing Him.  But Jesus stooped down and with His finger wrote on the ground. 

"But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, ‘He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.’”  John 8:107

“The Book of Job gives two other responses to disappointment with God.  The first was shown by Job’s friends, who were scandalized by his assaults on the most basic tenants of their faith.  Job’s profound disappointment with God did not match their theology.  They saw a clear-cut choice between a man who claimed to be just and a God they KNEW to be just.  The very idea of Job demanding an audience with God!  Suppress your feelings, they told him.  We know for a fact that God is not unjust.  So stop thinking that!  Shame on you for the outrageous things you’re saying.!”*

Jesus was not believable BECAUSE of His compassion and identification.  Also, He knew the Law of Moses better than all, yet...He also knew the heart of the Father and the overarching love that possessed that heart and what it would be for all.

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene  

PS: ANY NEW 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:   ?

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had surgery, needs prayer that his body continues to heal.   For Susan in Bulgaria, struggling to provide for her husband and two children.

Do not forget those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers, in Japan, USA and New Zealand).  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 
 
ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I 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:  Galdor got a wonderful job!  Kimberly is home with her parents now.  My brother & his wife Barb are doing better.  They’ve adjusted David’s meds and he’s improving.  Reg for his ministry and patience.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

Peek-A-Boo!

“Jesus therefore said to them again, ‘Peace be with you, as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.’  And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.  If you forgive the sins of any, their sins have been forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they have been retained,’ 

‘But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.  The other disciples therefore were saying to him, ‘We have seen the Lord!’  But he said to them, ‘Unless I shall see in His hands the imprint of the nails, and put my finger into the place of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.’” John 20:21-25

“I know too well my own instinctive response to the hiddenness of God, I retaliate by ignoring Him.  Like a child who thinks He can hide from adults by holding a chubby hand over his eyes, I try to shut God out of my life.  If He won’t reveal Himself to me...why should I acknowledge Him?!”*

The first time I realised how powerful the idea of “hiding” for a child was with my beloved little Matthew.  He was perhaps three years old at the time and he actually WOULD hide behind his hand.  At first it took me a while to realise the concept from his perspective.  So I would walk around and say things like, “oh I wonder where Matthew has gone.  I can’t find him!” 

“And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.  Then the Lord God called to the man and said to him, ‘Where are you?’”  Genesis 3:8-9

Yet, like our Heavenly Father, I could see Matthew.  I would smile and indulge Matthews “pretend”.  My love even intensified for Matthew’s innocence.  I wonder how the Father sees our hiding behind our hands from Him?

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 Susan in Bulgaria who struggles to provide for her husband and two children.  From Kimberly’s Dad  yesterday:  “Kimberly is home! ‘Weeping may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning’. Thank you so much for your prayers!!! If you wish you can thank for me everybody that prayed for Kimberly through your blog.”

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had his surgery & is now recovering at home.

Do not forget those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers, in Japan, USA and New Zealand).  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

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.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

No Pat Answers

“But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved).  In order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast.  For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared before hand, that we should walk in them.’” Ephesians 2:4-10

“Job’s friends insisted that God was not hidden.  They brought up reminders – dreams, visions, past blessings, the splendours of nature – of how God had proved Himself to Job in the past.  ‘Don’t forget in the darkles what you learned in the light,’ they chided.  And those of us who live after Job have even MORE light:  the record of fulfilled prophecy, and the life of Jesus.  But sometimes all insights or ‘proofs’ will fail.  Mere memory, no matter how pleasant, will not deaden pain or loneliness.  Perhaps for a time, all verses of Scripture and all inspirational slogans will likewise fail.”*

There are no pat answers that I’ve found.  Nothing helps sometimes.  I identify with Daniel’s three friends about to be thrown into the furnace...thinking, “Well, even if He doesn’t save me from this, I know He loves me and I cling to that love and His almighty promised grace with all I am.”  And sometimes, dare I say it; sometimes I am so hurt and lonely that I do not even feel His arms.  What works for me is looking back...seeing how far I’ve come.  Now that IS a miracle!  What about you?

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 Susan in Bulgaria who struggles to provide for her husband and two children.  From Kimberly’s Dad this morning:  “Kimberly is home! "Weeping may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning". Thank you so much for your prayers!!! If you wish you can thank for me everybody that prayed for Kimberly through your blog.”

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had his surgery & is now recovering at home.

Do not forget those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers, in Japan, USA and New Zealand).  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

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.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

Shared Link

“So when Jesus came, He found that he has already been in the tomb four days. – Martha therefore, when she heard that Jesus was coming, went to meet Him; but Mary still sat in the house.  Martha therefore said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.  Even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.’ 

“Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother shall rise again.’  Martha said to Him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’  Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die.  Do you believe this?’”  John 11:17, 20-26

“For those who suffer, and those who stand beside them, Job offers up an important lesson.  The doubts and complaints are valid responses, not symptoms of weak faith – so valid in fact, that God made SURE the Bible included them all.  One does not expect to find the arguments of God’s adversaries –bound into the Bible, but nearly all of them make an appearance, if not in Job, then in Psalms or Prophets. 

“The Bible seems to anticipate our disappointments, as if God grants us in advance the weapons to use against Him, as if God Himself understands the cost of sustaining faith.”*

I remember the day my Mother died and the lady in the hospital told me in that little sterile room, when they wouldn’t let me enter her room on my regular daily visit.  I could barely hear her words, after she said my Mom was gone.  I sometimes imagine Martha and Mary and their conversation that day with Jesus...their hearts crushed and throbbing with grief and confusion, trying to have a sensible chat about faith, when all they wanted was their loved one.  Yet, Jesus DID understand!

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 Susan in Bulgaria who struggles to provide for her husband and two children.  For Kimberly, is on her way home.  Please pray for her safe arrival and patience for all.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had his surgery & is now recovering at home.

Do not forget those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers, in Japan, USA and New Zealand).  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

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.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

Timing Works

“Then he came there to a cave, and lodged there; and behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and He said to him, ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?’  And he said, ‘I have been very zealous for the Lord, the God of hosts; for the sons of Israel have forsaken Thy covenant, torn down Thine altars and killed Thy prophets with the sword.  And I alone am left; and they seek my life to take it away. 

“So He said, ‘Go forth, and stand on the mountain before the Lord.’  And behold, the Lord was passing by!  And a great and strong wind was rending the mountains and breaking in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind.  And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.  And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a sound of a gentle blowing.

“And it came about when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave.  And behold a voice came to him and said, ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?’” I Kings 19:9-13

“Some would argue that God does not hide.  One religious bumper sticker reads, ’If you feel far from God, guess who moved?’  But the guilt implicit in the slogan may be false guilt:  the Book of Job details a time when apparently, it was God who moved.  Even though Job had done nothing wrong and pled desperately for help, God still chose to stay hidden.”*

And yet all of us who have walked with the Lord for awhile know that it seems to be more about timing.  We know this by looking back and seeing how the Lord guided us through difficult times in mysterious ways that we could not see because we were in the midst of the whirlwind at the time.  I love looking back when things forward seem too difficult!

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 Susan in Bulgaria who struggles to provide for her husband and two children.  For Kimberly, a 17 year old in Wisconsin who has run away because she’s lost her way & for her parents, who love her so much.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees) had his surgery & is now recovering at home.

Do not forget those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers, in Japan, USA and New Zealand).  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

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.  Have a new Internet provider.

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

(If you missed any of the devotions you can find them all here:  http://www.weakdaydevotion.blogspot.com  )

________________-- The WeakDay Devotion has been being written fresh for you every week day morning since the beginning of 1999.  It originated as encouragement for a dear friend having difficulties with her job.   Today the number of people who receive it continues to grow as others hear about it, receive it from friends and/or ask to receive it themselves. 

It’s especially for my family, friends, business people, students, pastors, teachers and a myriad of pre-, new and long-time serving Christians who want more Scripture with their devotion than many of the regular devotionals offer.  It’s also written to be short (usually one-screen in length) so you can get on with your day, but filled with a new idea from God's Word.  .

Don't hesitate to let me know:  (1). if you have received this copy from a friend and would like to be included in the regular email distribution list; (2). if you would like an introductory version of the WeakDay Devotions sent to someone or; (3). if you wish to stop the Devotions for a while or be removed from the distribution list all together.  (Please note:  if you are receiving this from a friend, I will be unable to change this as so many copies are passed on without my knowledge.  Best to refer this to the friend who is sending it to you.)

For the official record this goes out as a "blind" copy to save you from wading through a long list of names with each e-mail.  I use the New American Standard Translation unless otherwise noted and it is my privilege to pray over and guard the distribution list.  Also, you can now read the devotions on the Internet at:  http://www.weakdaydevotion.blogspot.com  or do a Google search for “WeakDay Devotion”.  If you should ever have to contact me, send me an e-mail or you can reach me at PO Box 401, Milsons Point NSW, 1565 AUSTRALIA.  Oh, yes, and I use McAfee Virus software to protect you.

What's Missing?

“’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 souls.  For My yoke is easy, and My load is light.’” Matthew 11:26-30

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety upon Him because He cares for you.” I Peter 5:6-7

“’Meanwhile, where is God?  This is one of the most disquieting symptoms.  When you are happy, so happy that you have no sense of needing Him...you will be – or so it feels – welcomed with open arms.

But go to Him when your need is desperate, when all other help is vain, and what do you fine?  A door slammed in your face, and a sound of bolting and double bolting on the inside.  After that, silence.  You may as well turn away.  The longer you wait, the more emphatic the silence will become.’” – CS Lewis, “A Grief Observed”*

I remember one of those wise people in my life telling me that God gives you the strength you need when you need it.  Seen as an observer or just a simple philosopher in a world gone mad with sin, it is difficult to see with His eyes and to realise just how amazing His love and patience is.  When we feel unsure in a situation or time, what is missing is our confidence and trust in this fact; because, as they say:  “When you feel God is far away, guess who moved!”

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 Susan in Bulgaria who struggles to provide for her husband and two children.  For Kimberly, a 17 year old in Wisconsin who has run away because she’s lost her way & for her parents, who love her so much.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Carlton (quadriplegic who has made his living raising honey bees).  Has surgery but no word yet on the outcome.  If the Lord moves your heart would you please consider sending him a greeting card at:  OSU Medical Center East, Tower 5 Room 510, 1492 E Broad St., Columbus Ohio 43205.  It would really boost his spirits.

For those still struggling after the many natural disasters, especially for the volunteers working with them (in Japan, USA, New Zealand).  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 those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS:  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. 

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.  Have a new Internet provider.

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