“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
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