His Will: Thankfulness

“Then Noah built an altar to the Lord, and took of every clean animal and of every clean bird and offered burnt offerings on the altar.  And the Lord smelled the soothing aroma; and the Lord said to Himself, ’I will never again curse the ground on account of man, for the intent of man’s heart is evil from his youth; and I will never again destroy every living thing, as I have done.’” Genesis 8:20-21

“Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say, rejoice!  Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men.  The Lord is near.  Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God which surpasses all comprehension shall guard your hears and your minds in Christ Jesus. – And God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory, in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7, 19

“We must see beyond the difficult circumstances to the sufficiency and the sovereignty of God.  God is always bigger than the problems and His will for us is that we never cease to recognise that being constantly thankful to Him for all the He is, and for all that He is doing.”*

To be thankful in all things is not easy...it is hard work reminding yourself over and over again that the Lord loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life and that He does know before the past and into the future so far there are only His eyes to see there!  There is a little book someone gave me once, by Merlin Carothers called:  “Prison to Praise”.  In it is his story of hardship and difficulty and his own arrogance at God, until he finally figures out that praising, thanking and trusting God in ALL situations, even the most impossible is one of the greatest secrets ever realised. 

Take a moment before the end of the week and list TEN things you are truly thankful for.  Include at least five things that someone who loves you would think are more problems than good things.

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:  Please pray for Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression.   Deborah and her son Michael, who just lost her mother to cancer and her father to suicide.  For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she had a stroke a few years back and remains physically challenged and cannot be left alone for long.  This limits Audley’s ability to travel for work.).  Cucuawe recently lost his 17-year old daughter and now his father-in-law is in the hospital with terminal cancer.  Please pray for Michael C, his mother is fading with Alzheimer’s and ill health.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Adrian is doing better.  I received a call about a potential new project and need to submit an acceptable proposal to win the business – please pray for my wisdom and insight with this.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Adrian is still in a lot of pain and desperately needs a “healthy” place to live.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult that is filling many unmet needs for him.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those still affected by the many natural, financial and political disasters in the past year.  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Paul has resigned from his job and will need employment again.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

His Will: Holiness

“For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honour, not in lustful passion, like the Gentiles who do not know God; and that no man transgress and defraud his brother in the matter because the Lord is the avenger in all these things, just as we also told you before and solemnly warned you.  For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification.” I Thessalonians 4:3-7

“I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.  And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:1-2

First, God’s will for us is “that we be holy.—A holy body is necessary for the will of God. – The relationship between a holy body and enjoyment of the will of God is a very clear one.*

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:  Please pray for Deborah, and her son Michael, who just lost her mother to cancer and her father to suicide.  For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she had a stroke a few years back and remains physically challenged and cannot be left alone for long.  This limits Audley’s ability to travel for work.).  Cucuawe just lost his 17-year old daughter and now his father-in-law has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.  Please pray for Michael C.  His mother is fading with ill health.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Adrian is still in a lot of pain and needs a “healthy” place to live.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult that is filling many unmet needs for him.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those still affected by the many natural, financial and political disasters in the past year.  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Paul has resigned from his job and will need employment again.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.
 

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

His General Will - 2

“And one of the Scribes came and heard them arguing, and recognising that He had answered them well, asked Him, ‘What commandment is the foremost of all?’ 

“Jesus answered, ‘The foremost is, ‘Hear, O Israel!  The Lord our God is one Lord; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. 

“The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself,’ there is no other commandment greater than these.’” Mark 12:28-31

“The specific will of God for us will only be found with the general will of God for all His people.  There are four things the New Testament states as being God’s will for you and me, and it will be within obedience in these specific instructions that His will for us personally will be found.”*

Next week we will look at these four things.  Over this weekend, pray to the Lord, specifically asking Him to open your heart to His Word and His will for understanding His will for your life.  And be prepared for thanksgiving!

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:  Please pray for Deborah, and her son Michael, who just lost her mother to cancer and her father to suicide.  For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she had a stroke a few years back and remains physically challenged and cannot be left alone for long.  This limits Audley’s ability to travel for work.).  Cucuawe just lost his 17-year old daughter and now his father-in-law has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Adrian is still in a lot of pain and needs a “healthy” place to live.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult that is filling many unmet needs for him.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those still affected by the many natural, financial and political disasters in the past year.  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Paul has resigned from his job and will need employment again.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

I Wanna KNOW!

“For all things are for your sakes, that the grace which is spreading to more and more people may cause the giving of thanks to abound to the glory of God.  Therefore we do not lose heart, but through our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day.  For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

“Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Sprit as a pledge.  Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight – we are of good courage, I say, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord.” II Corinthians 4:16-18; 5:5-8

“God is under no obligation to explain to you or to me what He is accomplishing with our lives.  Sometimes He will give a glimpse as He often did to people in Scripture but otherwise there will be no explanations from heaven and we will ‘live by faith, not by sight’.”*

We can NEVER understand the many wonders and mysteries of God...no matter how clever we are, no matter how educated or determined we are.  We cannot understand them if we negotiate, join forces with others or threaten God with our defection...His plans, His mysteries, His timing ares His alone...He is the be all and end all for all we can imagine.  Better to just rest in the relationships built on His generous 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:  Please pray for Deborah, and her son Michael, who just lost her mother to cancer and her father to suicide.  For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she had a stroke a few years back and remains physically challenged and cannot be left alone for long.  This limits Audley’s ability to travel for work.).  Cucuawe just lost his 17-year old daughter and now his father-in-law has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those still affected by the many natural, financial and political disasters in the past year.  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Paul has resigned from his job and will need employment again.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

How Much?

“But the Lord was pleased to crush Him, putting Him to grief; if He would render Himself as a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, and the good pleasure of the Lord will prosper in His hand.  As a result of the anguish of His soul, He will see it and be satisfied; by His knowledge the Righteous One, My Servant, will justify the many, as He will bear their iniquities. 

“Therefore, I will allot Him a portion with the great, and He will divide the booty with the strong; because He poured out Himself to death, and was numbered with the transgressors; yet He Himself bore the sins of many and interceded for the transgressors.” Isaiah 53:10-12

“And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Philippians 2:8

“There is a price to pay for obedience.  It takes us to the front line of the battle with Satan and his cohorts, and we are not exempt from danger, tears or pain.  But through it, beyond the immediate suffering, beyond the unanswered questions, beyond the pain of battle, there is good that God is accomplishing, and it is perfect, and when we see the whole picture there will be no doubt that it is pleasing.”*

There is no denying that it hurts when you are in the midst of difficulties and pain and confusion.  Yet during these times we CAN rely on the grace and strength to make it safe through it all, even when it seems to be too much or enough!

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:  Deborah’s mother passed away and her father committed suicide.  Please pray for Deborah and her son Michael.  The family is reeling with all that has happened!  For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she had a stroke a few years back and remains physically challenged and cannot be left alone for long.  This limits Audley’s ability to travel for work.).  Cucuawe’s father-in-law has been diagnosed with terminal cancer and is now in hospital (see below in Ongoing Prayer Requests).

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Cucuawe and his family, growing stronger after the death of their 17 year old daughter.  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those still affected by the many natural, financial and political disasters in the past year.  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Paul has resigned from his job and will need employment again.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

Look Behind

“And do not be conformed to this world , but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2

“And immediately He made the disciples get into the boat, and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away.  And after He had sent the multitudes away, He went up to the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. 

“But the boat was already many stadia away from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary.  And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea.  And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were frightened, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’  And they cried out for fear. 

“But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’  And Peter answered Him and said, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’  And He said, ‘Come!’ 

“And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus.  But seeing the wind, he became afraid, and beginning to sink, he cried out saying, ‘Lord, save me!’  And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’” Matthew 14:22-31

“God’s plans may not always make us glad, but they are good!  His plans may not always seem pleasant, but they are perfect!  When we see it to be good and we acknowledge it to be perfect we will discover it to be pleasing.”*

When you’re in a boat on a beautiful day and look forward it looks lovely with the water and waves all laid out before you.  But look right behind the boat and see the churning and confusion that’s going on as you are propel you forward.  It is always best to keep your eyes on Jesus, He knows where He is captaining your boat!

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

PS:  The technical difficulties that began months ago, continue.  I’m preparing a new way to send these to you and it takes far longer now to get them out.  ((The number of people who request this has grown to where sending the lists (even in smaller group lists) results in them being treated like SPAM; with an ongoing threat that I will not be able to have access through my Internet Service Provider.)

PPS: 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:  Deborah’s mother passed away and her father committed suicide.  Please pray for Deborah and her son Michael.  The family is reeling with all that has happened!  For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she had a stroke a few years back and remains physically challenged and cannot be left alone for long.  This limits Audley’s ability to travel for work.).  Cucuawe’s father-in-law has been diagnosed with terminal cancer and is now in hospital (see below in Ongoing Prayer Requests).

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Cucuawe and his family, growing stronger after the death of their 17 year old daughter.  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those still affected by the many natural, financial and political disasters in the past year.  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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Paul has resigned from his job and will need employment again.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

Maybe - Maybe Not

“Jesus said to him, ‘If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the pour, and you shall have treasure in heaven; and come follow Me.’  But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieved; for he was one who owned much property.

“’And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name’s sake shall receive many times as much, and shall inherit eternal life.  But many who are first will be last and the last, first.’”  Matthew 19:21-22, 29-30

“What I commit to Jesus Christ and place in His hands, He undertakes to look after.  What I do not entrust to Him, I have to look after myself.  That is the simple choice we have to make.  If I am afraid of Christ looking after the affairs of my life, it can only be because I either do not know Him well enough, or I do not want Him.”*

To dismiss a part of the teachings of the Bible, people will say that it is out of context or out of time or unrealistic or misunderstood...OR they will “mould” the words to mean something that the Lord would never ask.  Here we have a passage that some say speaks of selling all you own, leaving all you love on earth with family and friends so you can have a life complete in Christ.  But that is not what is meant...it means disengaging from things that distract us from His lordship...to recognise what “treasure” we put first in our lives that takes our eyes off the Lord.  It is our choice, moment-by-moment.

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

PS:  The technical difficulties that began months ago, continue.  I’m preparing a new way to send these to you and it takes far longer now to get them out.  ((The number of people who request this has grown to where sending the lists (even in smaller group lists) results in them being treated like SPAM; with an ongoing threat that I will not be able to have access through my Internet Service Provider.)

PPS: 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:  Deborah’s mother passed away and her father committed suicide.  Please pray for Deborah and her son Michael.  The family is reeling with all that has happened!

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Thanks for the reminder of the Lord’s sacrificial birth and for another New Year to walk more closely with Him.  For Tim (brother) who has made a full recovery.  For Michael C who is recovering well.  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Cucuawe and his family, growing stronger after the death of their 17 year old daughter.  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those affected by the failure of MF Global funds.  .  For those still affected by the many natural disasters that have raged in many places over the last year, including:  Philippines, east coast of the USA from Hurricane Irene, Japan and New Zealand earthquakes, 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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Paul has resigned from his job and will need employment again.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

Not a Substance!

“Jesus therefore was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you abode in My Word, then you are truly disciples of mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.’” John 8:31-32

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me.  If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him.’” John 14:6

“These things Jesus spoke; and lifting up His eyes to heaven, He said, ‘Father the hour has come; glorify Thy Son, that the Son may glorify Thee, even as Thou gavest Him authority over all mankind, that to all whom Thou has given Him, He may give eternal life.  ’And this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent.’” John 17:1-3

“The Christian life is more than knowing truths; it is knowing God.  And the depth and reality of our experience is related directly to how well we know Him.  In fact, every facet of the Christian life grows out of knowledge of God. – Eternal life is not a substance, it is a Person, and it is enjoyed by KNOWING the Person.  It is knowing God and knowing Christ.”*

They say “the devil is in the details”...perhaps there’s more to that statement than we realise.  Sometimes we focus too much on the details and rituals and traditions and a check list of stuff that “shows” we are a good Christian, when looking around with compassion as our motivator, as Christ our example did, is what it is about -- living our lives in His footsteps, not someone elses!

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

PS:  The technical difficulties that began months ago, continue.  I’m preparing a new way to send these to you and it takes far longer now to get them out.  ((The number of people who request this has grown to where sending the lists (even in smaller group lists) results in them being treated like SPAM; with an ongoing threat that I will not be able to have access through my Internet Service Provider.)

 PPS: 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:  Deborah’s mother passed away and her father committed suicide.  Please pray for Deborah and her son Michael.  The family is reeling with all that has happened!

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Thanks for the reminder of the Lord’s sacrificial birth and for another New Year to walk more closely with Him.  For Tim (brother) who has made a full recovery.  For Michael C who is recovering well.  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Cucuawe and his family, growing stronger after the death of their 17 year old daughter.  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those affected by the failure of MF Global funds.  .  For those still affected by the many natural disasters that have raged in many places over the last year, including:  Philippines, east coast of the USA from Hurricane Irene, Japan and New Zealand earthquakes, 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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Paul has resigned from his job and will need employment again.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

Whom Not What

“For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.  Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the Gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Saviour Christ Jesus, who abolished death, and brought life and immorality to light through the Gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher.  For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know WHOM I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.” II Timothy 1:7-12

Notice in these verses that Paul does not say, ‘I know what I have believed’, but ‘I know WHOM I have believed’, and there is all the difference in the world between the two. – The Christian life is more than knowing truths it is knowing God. – Eternal life is not a substance, it is a Person and it is enjoyed by KNOWING the Person.  It is knowing God and knowing Christ.*

We use the terms “a personal relationship” with Jesus Christ for a reason.  When you read the New Testament (especially the Gospels), you see how Jesus conducted His life.  He approached each person in a personal way.  It is this personal, one-on-one care about the details of your life that are important to Christ.  From the moment you are conceived to the moment you come to live your life in Christ and every step after, that are precious to Jesus.  Every step and every moment of your life is of a personal concern of Jesus Christ’s!  It is why knowing ABOUT Him is never enough – He wants your heart!

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

PS:  The technical difficulties that began months ago, continue.  I’m preparing a new way to send these to you and it takes far longer now to get them out.  ((The number of people who request this has grown to where sending the lists (even in smaller group lists) results in them being treated like SPAM; with an ongoing threat that I will not be able to have access through my Internet Service Provider.)

PPS: 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:  Deborah’s mother passed away and her father committed suicide.  Please pray for Deborah and her son Michael.  The family is reeling with all that has happened!

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Thanks for the reminder of the Lord’s sacrificial birth and for another New Year to walk more closely with Him.  For Tim (brother) who has made a full recovery.  For Michael C who is recovering well.  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Cucuawe and his family, growing stronger after the death of their 17 year old daughter.  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those affected by the failure of MF Global funds.  .  For those still affected by the many natural disasters that have raged in many places over the last year, including:  Philippines, east coast of the USA from Hurricane Irene, Japan and New Zealand earthquakes, 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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

Reason We Doubt

“For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.  Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the Gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Saviour Christ Jesus, who abolished death, and brought life and immorality to light through the Gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher.  For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.” II Timothy 1:7-12

“Whenever we have fears about God’s plan it is always for the same very simple reason.  We do not know God well enough!  Most of our negative fears about God derive from the fact we do not know God as He really is.”* 

As He spoke these things, many came to believe in Him.  Jesus therefore was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you abide in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine, and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:30-32

We make God in our image and the image of parents and the image others paint of Him, yet He is!  He is way beyond what we can imagine.  His grace is immeasurable as is His patience!  Amen and amen!

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

PS:  The technical difficulties that began months ago, continue.  I’m preparing a new way to send these to you and it takes far longer now to get them out.  ((The number of people who request this has grown to where sending the lists (even in smaller group lists) results in them being treated like SPAM; with an ongoing threat that I will not be able to have access through my Internet Service Provider.)

PPS: 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:  Deborah’s mother passed away and her father committed suicide.  Please pray for Deborah and her son Michael.  The family is reeling with all that has happened!

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Thanks for the reminder of the Lord’s sacrificial birth and for another New Year to walk more closely with Him.  For Tim (brother) who has made a full recovery.  For Michael C who is recovering well.  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Cucuawe and his family, growing stronger after the death of their 17 year old daughter.  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those affected by the failure of MF Global funds.  .  For those still affected by the many natural disasters that have raged in many places over the last year, including:  Philippines, east coast of the USA from Hurricane Irene, Japan and New Zealand earthquakes, 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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

Meany?

“Thus says the Lord, ‘Stand by the ways and see and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; and you shall find rest for your souls.’  But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.”  And I set watchmen over you, saying, ‘Listen to the sound of the trumpet!’  But they said, ‘We will not listen!’” Jeremiah 6:16-17

“The basic idea is that if it is something they don’t like, God probably will, and if it is something they do like, God probably won’t.”*

When someone is a pre-Christians, one of the great fears they have is that they will have to change who they are, what they do, where they go, etc.  This may delay their willingness to surrender and make a commitment to Christ.  They get this idea, by the way, from Christians. 

For those of us who are Christians, sometimes, some of us retain this fear and this results in a frustrated, unfulfilled Christian life that seems empty.  But watch the next few days for the answer!

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

PS:  The technical difficulties that began months ago, continue.  I’m preparing a new way to send these to you and it takes far longer now to get them out.  ((The number of people who request this has grown to where sending the lists (even in smaller group lists) results in them being treated like SPAM; with an ongoing threat that I will not be able to have access through my Internet Service Provider.)

PPS: 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:  Deborah’s mother passed away and her father committed suicide.  Please pray for Deborah and her son Michael.  The family is reeling with all that has happened!

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Thanks for the reminder of the Lord’s sacrificial birth and for another New Year to walk more closely with Him.  For Tim (brother) who has made a full recovery.  For Michael C who is recovering well.  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Cucuawe and his family, growing stronger after the death of their 17 year old daughter.  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  For David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those affected by the failure of MF Global funds.  .  For those still affected by the many natural disasters that have raged in many places over the last year, including:  Philippines, east coast of the USA from Hurricane Irene, Japan and New Zealand earthquakes, 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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia.  I still need a new project.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

Lite Burden?

“’All things have been handed over to Me by My Father; and no one knows the Sun, 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 11:27-30

“Why are so many fearful of the Lordship of Christ in their lives?  I have talked to many who want to be right with God but who are frightened of surrendering to Him. -- The basic idea is that if it is something they do not like, God probably will, and if it is something they do like, God probably won’t!  I understand those fears for I have shared them”*

I have to start the New Year with the question:  “Why are so many fearful of the Lordship of Christ in their lives?” because it seems so pivotal to living a full life in Christ. 

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

PS:  The technical difficulties that began months ago, continue.  Nevertheless, I wanted to get this to you so you could think about this important question.

PPS: 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:  Deborah’s mother passed away and her father committed suicide.  The family is reeling with all that has happened!

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Thanks for the reminder of the Lord’s sacrificial birth and for another New Year to walk more closely with Him.  For Tim (brother) who has made a full recovery.  For Michael C who is recovering well.  Adrian is doing better.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David still needs prayer for his health.  Tim B and Losa with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- her headaches and attitude toward her mom.  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, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  For Cucuawe and his family, growing stronger after the death of their 17 year old daughter.  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Tim (my brother) needs financial help, especially with this surgery and no insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension with his coronary pulmonary artery disease.  Adam who is investigating a cult.  Scott, as he struggles and grows.  Pray for David K that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children. For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those affected by the failure of MF Global funds.  .  For those still affected by the many natural disasters that have raged in many places over the last year, including:  east coast of the USA from Hurricane Irene, Japan and New Zealand earthquakes, 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. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  That Tim might find satisfying work.  Randy needs a new job in Canada or Australia. 

*Christ For Real by Charles Price