People, Weekend Assignment, Part 6

“Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy; is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily.  It is not conceited – arrogant and inflated with pride; it is not rude (unmannerly), and does not act unbecomingly.  Love (God’s love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it – pays no attention to a suffered wrong. 

“It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail.  Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes and fadeless under all circumstances and it endures everything (without weakening).  Love never fails – never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end.” I Corinthians 13:4-8a – Amplified Bible Paraphrase

“If you were to read that passage again and replace the word ‘love’ with ‘Christ’ it would make perfect sense.  Jesus Christ was the incarnation of love for God is love.  But this too is the goal of the Holy Spirit in your life and mine.  It may be a challenging and humbling process, for read through these same verses some time and instead of “love’ read your own name! 

“The extent of your embarrassment reveals how far we have to grow, as well as how honest we are!   In this life we will not be perfect, although the day will come when we shall be perfectly restored to the likeness of Christ.  In the meantime, this is our goal, and the appetite to be like Christ is the effect of the Holy Spirit’s presence and working with us.”*

A new week end assignment...

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

PS:  ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  Please send updates!  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:  Last night I saw a woman killed and another badly injured as they walked across the street and were struck by a hit and run driver in front of my house.  It was most tragic.  Please pray for the families of these women.  A very special friend from my youth passed away of a terrible cancer...please pray for strength for Bill’s family and friends at this time. 

Pray for Isaiac Catorce, his family and ministry in the Philippines and the clean-up after the flood where more than 85 people died.  If the Lord lays it on your heart to help, contact Barbara Hanak at Ambassadors for Christ in Atlanta Georgia (bhanak@afciworld.org)

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Hans has seen the mighty hand of the Lord working in his life and Deborah’s husband is home from surgery and they hope he will be much better now.  Adrian is doing some better in his attitude but is still in much pain.  If anyone is near Caboolture (an hour north of Brisbane), please contact me so we can help Adrian in a more practical way! 

That the Lord loves and comforts us through challenges we could not face without Him and for good friends during times of difficulty.  The project in Canberra has not come through and I’m trusting the Lord has something better – this is an urgent need. 

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  For Daniel Craver (3-4 yrs old), home recovering from urgent liver surgery!  Paul NS.  Tim (my little brother), with CPRD, needs financial help, especially with no health insurance - needs a disability pension.  David still needs prayer for his health, but is doing better.  Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression. 

For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she’s disabled from a stroke and needs a carer during the day so Audley can go out and work).  Tim B with headaches, that his doctor will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton suffering from horrible infections in his bones. 

Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ )  Wisdom for doctors caring for so many, including Tim, Doris, David, Gary, Deb, Adrian and Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray the Lord’s hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read this devotion...that His mighty works would be worked out in each life for His purposes!  Hans, a new hungry baby Christian urgently needs to find fellowship --if you know any Christians near Essen Germany, please contact me as soon as possible. 

Cucuawe as he recovers from the trauma of his 17-year old daughter’s death.  Galdor recovering from the loss of his mother and companion dog of 17 years --he also needs a new job.  For Yourri who lost a friend.  Please pray for Deepak as he struggles through some challenges.  For travelling mercies as Reg and Beverly visit South Africa.  Pray for wisdom of my brother as he deals with an important matter.

For travelling mercies for Michael C & Diane on their extended cruise.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Adam who’s becoming involved with a cult that’s filling many unmet needs.  Scott, for strength as he struggles and grows (for Donna as she encourages him).  For David K, in his studies.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations suffering from global financial mismanagement.

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Barbara’s (sister-in-law) and Hans’ (friend) projects have both ended and they need new work.  (Hans especially needs paying work – he’s been volunteering to fill the time.)  For Tim, my amazing brother that he might find satisfying work.  Paul K who resigned from his job and is setting up a consultancy.

 

 

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

More People, Part 4

“And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, ‘Let us return and visit the brethren in every city in which we proclaimed the Word of the Lord, and see how they are.’  And Barnabas was desirous of taking John, called Mark, along with them also.  But Paul kept insisting that they should not take him along who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work.

“And there arose such a sharp disagreement that they separated from one another, and Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus.  But Paul chose Silas and departed, being committed by the brethren to the grace of the Lord.  And he was travelling through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.”  Acts 15:36-41

“The Love of God in our lives is not a love that reinforces the natural divisions amongst people by only making the love we already have for certain people stronger, but it is a love that breaks down the natural barriers. -- In a loving context we should face difficulties honestly and securely, and there may even be times when separation is inevitable as a result.”*

When you speak with people who’ve not read the Bible for themselves - and only know it from others, you typically get two ideas.  One is that God is a sweet “grandfatherly”-kind of sleepy person who loves everything and everyone with ultra-forgiveness for mistakes; or that everything you do has to be perfect or you’re damned - where everything is either forbidden or sinful or a waste of time. 

I love the Bible because it illustrates challenges we all face.  When it comes to people it clearly shows that people ARE difficult...relationships ARE difficult but never perfect.  As you read through the Gospels see how Jesus walked courageously through the rejection of so many yet was steadfast in His love, but He did not agree with everyone!

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

PS:  ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  Please send updates!  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:  A very special friend from my youth passed away yesterday of a terrible cancer...please pray for strength for Bill’s family and friends at this time.  Pray for Deborah, that she has wisdom as she prays for her new husband, Dennis.  He had a recurrence of prostate cancer and will have surgery this week at St Vincent’s.  Due to radiation therapy in 2004, there are additional complications and ramifications. 

Pray for Isaiac Catorce, his family and ministry in the Philippines clean-up after the flood where more than 85 people died.  If the Lord lays it on your heart to help, contact Barbara Hanak at Ambassadors for Christ in Atlanta Georgia (bhanak@afciworld.org)

For Adrian who is suffering much pain with his deteriorating spine from the cancer...the pain meds are not working anymore, yet the Lord has found him a new place to life for now in Caboolture (about an hour north of Brisbane).  If anyone is near there, please contact me so we can help him! 

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  That the Lord loves and comforts us through challenges we could not face without Him and for good friends during times of difficulty.  The project in Canberra has not come through and I’m trusting the Lord has something better – this is an urgent need. 

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  For Daniel Craver (3-4 yrs old), home recovering from urgent liver surgery!  Paul NS.  Tim (my little brother), with CPRD, needs financial help, especially with no health insurance - needs a disability pension.  David still needs prayer for his health, but is doing better.  Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression. 

For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she’s disabled from a stroke and needs a carer during the day so Audley can go out and work).  Tim B with headaches, that his doctor will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton suffering from horrible infections in his bones. 

Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ )  Wisdom for doctors caring for so many, including Tim, Doris, David, Gary, Deb, Adrian and Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray the Lord’s hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read this devotion...that His mighty works would be worked out in each life for His purposes!  Hans, a new hungry baby Christian urgently needs to find fellowship --if you know any Christians near Essen Germany, please contact me as soon as possible. 

Cucuawe as he recovers from the trauma of his 17-year old daughter’s death.  Galdor recovering from the loss of his mother and companion dog of 17 years --he also needs a new job.  For Yourri who lost a friend.  Please pray for Deepak as he struggles through some challenges.  For travelling mercies as Reg and Beverly visit South Africa.  Pray for wisdom of my brother as he deals with an important matter.

For travelling mercies for Michael C & Diane on their extended cruise.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Adam who’s becoming involved with a cult that’s filling many unmet needs.  Scott, for strength as he struggles and grows (for Donna as she encourages him).  For David K, in his studies.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations suffering from global financial mismanagement.

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Barbara’s (sister-in-law) and Hans’ (friend) projects have both ended and they need new work.  (Hans especially needs paying work – he’s been volunteering to fill the time.)  For Tim, my amazing brother that he might find satisfying work.  Paul K who resigned from his job and is setting up a consultancy.

 

 

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

More People, Part 3

“’You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbour, and hate your enemy.’  But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you in order that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 

“’For if you love those who love you, what reward have you?  Do not even the tax gatherers do the same?  And if you greet your brother only, what do you do more than others?  Do not even the Gentiles do the same?  Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.’”  Matthew 5:43-48

“Love is more than a feeling toward people we like.  It is an attitude, even towards those we might not like or get on with naturally, which says, ‘That person is more important to me than I am to myself in the moments that I am involved with them.”*

We are not what we have or what we do...and our behaviour and belongs have nothing to do with what is loveable about us.  When we look at another person we cannot judge their hearts, but we can see their behaviours.  Loving the person is about loving the person...not necessarily their behaviours or belongings.

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

PS:  ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  Please send updates!  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:  Pray for Deborah, that she has wisdom as she prays for her new husband, Dennis.  He had a recurrence of prostate cancer and will have surgery next week at St Vincent’s.  Due to radiation therapy in 2004, there are additional complications and ramifications. 

Pray for Isaiac Catorce, his family and ministry in the Philippines clean-up after the flood where more than 85 people died.  If the Lord lays it on your heart to help, contact Barbara Hanak at Ambassadors for Christ in Atlanta Georgia (bhanak@afciworld.org)

For Adrian who is suffering much pain with his deteriorating spine from the cancer...the pain meds are not working anymore, yet the Lord has found him a new place to life for now in Caboolture (about an hour north of Brisbane).  If anyone is near there, please contact me so we can help him! 

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  That the Lord loves and comforts us through challenges we could not face without Him and for good friends during times of difficulty.  The project in Canberra has not come through and I’m trusting the Lord has something better – this is an urgent need. 

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  For Daniel Craver (3-4 yrs old), home recovering from urgent liver surgery!  Paul NS.  Tim (my little brother), with CPRD, needs financial help, especially with no health insurance - needs a disability pension.  David still needs prayer for his health, but is doing better.  Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression. 

For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she’s disabled from a stroke and needs a carer during the day so Audley can go out and work).  Tim B with headaches, that his doctor will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton suffering from horrible infections in his bones. 

Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ )  Wisdom for doctors caring for so many, including Tim, Doris, David, Gary, Deb, Adrian and Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray the Lord’s hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read this devotion...that His mighty works would be worked out in each life for His purposes!  Hans, a new hungry baby Christian urgently needs to find fellowship --if you know any Christians near Essen Germany, please contact me as soon as possible. 

Cucuawe as he recovers from the trauma of his 17-year old daughter’s death.  Galdor recovering from the loss of his mother and companion dog of 17 years --he also needs a new job.  For Yourri who lost a friend.  Please pray for Deepak as he struggles through some challenges.  For travelling mercies as Reg and Beverly visit South Africa.  Pray for wisdom of my brother as he deals with an important matter.

For travelling mercies for Michael C & Diane on their extended cruise.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Adam who’s becoming involved with a cult that’s filling many unmet needs.  Scott, for strength as he struggles and grows (for Donna as she encourages him).  For David K, in his studies.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations suffering from global financial mismanagement.

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Barbara’s (sister-in-law) and Hans’ (friend) projects have both ended and they need new work.  (Hans especially needs paying work – he’s been volunteering to fill the time.)  For Tim, my amazing brother that he might find satisfying work.  Paul K who resigned from his job and is setting up a consultancy.

 

 

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

People, Part 2

“If therefore there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consoloation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit,  intent on one purpose. 

“Do nothing from selfish or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not mere look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians2:1-4

“Is there any such thing as Christians cheering each other up?  Do you love me [Paul] enough to help me?  Does it mean anything to you that we are brothers in the Lord, sharing the same Spirit?  Are your hearts tender and sympathetic at all?  Then make me truly happy by loving each other and agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, working together with one heart and mind and purpose. 

“Don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others.  Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself.  Don’t just think about your own affairs, but be interested in others, too, and in what they are doing.” Philippians 2:1-4 (Living Paraphrase)

“The wording ‘consider others better than ourselves, [in some translations] may sound as though it involves a value judgment that considers oneself to be not as good as others, but the New American Standard Version translates is helpfully:  ‘But with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself.’  That is the essence of ‘agape’ love, considering others as ‘more important’ than yourself.  One of the evidences that you are loved by someone is that you begin to feel important to them.  With the Holy Spirit at work in our lives, people become important, and there is a new attitude toward them in general.”*

A tenderness, a concern for others can play itself out in many ways when the Holy Spirit indwells you..yet it will be more evident than ever before in your life.

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

PS:  ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  Please send updates!  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:  Pray for Deborah, that she has wisdom as she prays for her new husband, Dennis.  He had a recurrence of prostate cancer and will have surgery next week at St Vincent’s.  Due to radiation therapy in 2004, there are additional complications and ramifications. 

Pray for Isaiac Catorce, his family and ministry in the Philippines clean-up after the flood where more than 85 people died.  If the Lord lays it on your heart to help, contact Barbara Hanak at Ambassadors for Christ in Atlanta Georgia (bhanak@afciworld.org)

For Adrian who is suffering much pain with his deteriorating spine from the cancer...the pain meds are not working anymore, yet the Lord has found him a new place to life for now in Caboolture (about an hour north of Brisbane).  If anyone is near there, please contact me so we can help him! 

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  That the Lord loves and comforts us through challenges we could not face without Him and for good friends during times of difficulty.  The project in Canberra has not come through and I’m trusting the Lord has something better – this is an urgent need. 

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  For Daniel Craver (3-4 yrs old), home recovering from urgent liver surgery!  Paul NS.  Tim (my little brother), with CPRD, needs financial help, especially with no health insurance - needs a disability pension.  David still needs prayer for his health, but is doing better.  Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression. 

For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she’s disabled from a stroke and needs a carer during the day so Audley can go out and work).  Tim B with headaches, that his doctor will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton suffering from horrible infections in his bones. 

Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ )  Wisdom for doctors caring for so many, including Tim, Doris, David, Gary, Deb, Adrian and Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray the Lord’s hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read this devotion...that His mighty works would be worked out in each life for His purposes!  Hans, a new hungry baby Christian urgently needs to find fellowship --if you know any Christians near Essen Germany, please contact me as soon as possible. 

Cucuawe as he recovers from the trauma of his 17-year old daughter’s death.  Galdor recovering from the loss of his mother and companion dog of 17 years --he also needs a new job.  For Yourri who lost a friend.  Please pray for Deepak as he struggles through some challenges.  For travelling mercies as Reg and Beverly visit South Africa.  Pray for wisdom of my brother as he deals with an important matter.

For travelling mercies for Michael C & Diane on their extended cruise.  For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Adam who’s becoming involved with a cult that’s filling many unmet needs.  Scott, for strength as he struggles and grows (for Donna as she encourages him).  For David K, in his studies.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations suffering from global financial mismanagement.

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Barbara’s (sister-in-law) and Hans’ (friend) projects have both ended and they need new work.  (Hans especially needs paying work – he’s been volunteering to fill the time.)  For Tim, my amazing brother that he might find satisfying work.  Paul K who resigned from his job and is setting up a consultancy.

 

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

People, Part 1

“’A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.  By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.’” John 13:34-35

“The one who says he is in the light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now.  The one who loves his brother abides in the light and there is no cause for stumbling in him.  But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

“We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren.  He who does not love abides in death.

“We love because He first loved us.  If someone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar, for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen.  And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.”I John 2:9-11, 3:14, 4:19-20

“(a) A changed attitude to people:  The first word on the list of fruit is ‘love’, and it is followed later by ‘kindness, goodness, faithfulness’ and ‘gentleness’, all of which are expressions of love and which are seen in our attitude towards other people.  Love was spoken of by Jesus as being the evidence of being a Christian.”*

The first thing God ever declared was “not good” was that man was alone.  People in our lives are there as sandpaper, soothing cream or support.  Sandpaper to rub off the rough edges; soothing cream to love us when we are troubled and support when the world seems to be falling apart or our lives are filled with so many wonderful things our feet may leave the ground!

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

PS:  ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  Please send updates!  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:  Pray for Isaiac Catorce, his family and ministry in the Philippines where clean-up’s just beginning ( see column to the left of this blog for more information):  “85 people confirmed dead.”  So much is needed after this devastating flood.  If the Lord lays it on your heart to help, contact Barbara Hanak at Ambassadors for Christ in Atlanta Georgia (bhanak@afciworld.org)

For Adrian who is suffering much pain with his deteriorating spine from the cancer...the pain meds are not working anymore, yet the Lord has found him a new place to life for now in Caboolture (about an hour north of Brisbane).  If anyone is near there, please contact me so we can help him! 

 For Daniel Craver (3-4 yrs old), is home now recovering from urgent liver surgery!  They send thanks for your faithful prayers.  Cucuawe as he recovers from the trauma of his 17-year old daughter’s death.  Hans, a new hungry baby Christian urgently needs to find fellowship --if you know any Christians near Essen Germany, please contact me as soon as possible.  Pray for me for a project in Canberra – the decision was delayed waiting to hear news – this is an urgent need, if it is in the Lord’s will.  Pray for wisdom of my brother as he deals with an important matter.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  That the Lord loves and comforts us through challenges we could not face without Him and for good friends during times of difficulty.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for Deborah’s husband.  Paul NS.  Tim (my little brother), with CPRD, needs financial help, especially with no health insurance - needs a disability pension.   For Michael C, with his own health concerns & for his wife, Diane, as his mother is fading away with Alzheimer’s and ill health.  David still needs prayer for his health, but is doing better.  Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression. 

For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she’s disabled from a stroke and needs a carer during the day so Audley can go out and work).  Tim B with headaches, that his doctor will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton suffering from horrible infections in his bones. 

Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ )  Wisdom for doctors caring for so many, including Tim, Doris, David, Gary, Deb, Adrian and Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray the Lord’s hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read this devotion...that His mighty works would be worked out in each life for His purposes!  Galdor recovering from the loss of his mother and companion dog of 17 years --he also needs a new job.  For Yourri who lost a friend.  Please pray for Deepak as he struggles through some challenges.  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.  Adam who is becoming involved with a cult that’s filling many unmet needs.  Scott, for strength as he struggles and grows (for Donna as she encourages him).  For David K, in his studies.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations suffering from global financial mismanagement.

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Barbara’s (sister-in-law) and Hans’ (friend) projects have both ended and they need new work.  (Hans especially needs paying work – he’s been volunteering to fill the time.)  For Tim, my amazing brother that he might find satisfying work.  Paul K who resigned from his job and is setting up a consultancy.

 

 

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

The devil can...

“And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.  

“For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.  For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die.  But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”  Romans 5:3-8

“The devil can counterfeit the ‘gifts’ of the Spirit (the purpose for which they are given we will comment on later), but he cannot counterfeit the fruit of the Spirit for it is an expression of the very character of God, and he hates that!

“This changed character will be expressed in three ways:  (a) A changed attitude to people; (b) a changed attitude to circumstances; (c) a changed attitude to ourselves.”*

They say it grows darkest before the dawn.  For some of us, the darkness has grown so dark at times it’s hard to imagine a dawn again.  But God is always on time with His plan for our lives.  We can try to hide and we can try to deny our new life in Christ; yet once we are His child, He always holds us or carries us in His arms through it all. 

And why, you ask?  Because God loves us and has a wonderful plan for our each of our lives in Him that will grow His kingdom in the hearts and minds of those around us!

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

PS:  ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  Please send updates!  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:  Pray for Isaiac Catorce, his family and ministry in the Philippines where clean-up’s just beginning ( see column to the left of this blog for more information):  “85 people confirmed dead.”  So much is needed after this devastating flood.  If the Lord lays it on your heart to help, contact Barbara Hanak at Ambassadors for Christ in Atlanta Georgia (bhanak@afciworld.org)

For Adrian who is suffering much pain with his deteriorating spine from the cancer...the pain meds are not working anymore, yet the Lord has found him a new place to live for now in Caboolture (about an hour north of Brisbane).  If anyone is near there, please contact me so we can help him! 

For Moe, as he deals with difficulties.  For Daniel Craver (3-4 yrs old), is home now recovering from urgent liver surgery!  They send thanks for your faithful prayers.  Cucuawe as he recovers from the trauma of his 17-year old daughter’s death.  Hans, a new hungry baby Christian urgently needs to find fellowship --if you know any Christians near Essen Germany, please contact me as soon as possible.  Pray for me for a project in Canberra – the decision was delayed waiting to hear news – this is an urgent need, if it is in the Lord’s will.  Pray for wisdom of my brother as he deals with an important matter.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  That the Lord loves and comforts us through challenges we could not face without Him and for good friends during times of difficulty.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for Deborah’s husband.  Paul NS.  Tim (my little brother), with CPRD, needs financial help, especially with no health insurance - needs a disability pension.   For Michael C, with his own health concerns & for his wife, Diane, as his mother is fading away with Alzheimer’s and ill health.  David still needs prayer for his health, but is doing better.  Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression. 

For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she’s disabled from a stroke and needs a carer during the day so Audley can go out and work).  Tim B with headaches, that his doctor will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton suffering from horrible infections in his bones. 

Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ )  Wisdom for doctors caring for so many, including Tim, Doris, David, Gary, Deb, Adrian and Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray the Lord’s hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read this devotion...that His mighty works would be worked out in each life for His purposes!  Galdor recovering from the loss of his mother and companion dog of 17 years --he also needs a new job.  For Yourri who lost a friend.  Please pray for Deepak as he struggles through some challenges.  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.  Adam who is becoming involved with a cult that’s filling many unmet needs.  Scott, for strength as he struggles and grows (for Donna as she encourages him).  For David K, in his studies.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations suffering from global financial mismanagement.

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Barbara’s (sister-in-law) and Hans’ (friend) projects have both ended and they need new work.  (Hans especially needs paying work – he’s been volunteering to fill the time.)  For Tim, my amazing brother that he might find satisfying work.  Paul K who resigned from his job and is setting up a consultancy.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

What Character!

“And gathering them together, He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for what the Father had promised, ‘Which,’ He said, ‘you heard of from Me; for John baptised with water, but you shall be baptised with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.’ 

“And so when they had come together, they were asking Him saying, ‘Lord, is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to Israel?’ 

“He said to them, ‘It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority; but you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.’” Acts 1:4-8

“One word sums up this list [of the fruit of the Holy Spirit]:  character.  More specifically, it is the character of Jesus Christ, because the Spirit who produced this so perfectly in His life, is the One who wants to express the same qualities in our lives.”*

Our Father seals His promise in a way by the provision of the Holy Spirit dwelling within us to develop His character within us...but not for our own purposes...but for His plan!

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

PS:  ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  Please send updates!  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:  Pray for Isaiac Catorce, his family and ministry in the Philippines where clean-up’s just beginning ( see column to the left of this blog for more information):  “85 people confirmed dead.”  So much is needed after this devastating flood.  If the Lord lays it on your heart to help, contact Barbara Hanak at Ambassadors for Christ in Atlanta Georgia (bhanak@afciworld.org)

For Adrian who is suffering much pain with his deteriorating spine from the cancer...the pain meds are not working anymore, yet the Lord has found him a new place to life for now in Caboolture (about an hour north of Brisbane).  If anyone is near there, please contact me so we can help him! 

For Daniel Craver (3-4 yrs old), is home now recovering from urgent liver surgery!  They send thanks for your faithful prayers.  Cucuawe as he recovers from the trauma of his 17-year old daughter’s death.  Hans, a new hungry baby Christian urgently needs to find fellowship --if you know any Christians near Essen Germany, please contact me as soon as possible.  Pray for me for a project in Canberra – the decision was delayed waiting to hear news – this is an urgent need, if it is in the Lord’s will.  Pray for wisdom of my brother as he deals with an important matter.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  That the Lord loves and comforts us through challenges we could not face without Him and for good friends during times of difficulty.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for Deborah’s husband.  Paul NS.  Tim (my little brother), with CPRD, needs financial help, especially with no health insurance - needs a disability pension.   For Michael C, with his own health concerns & for his wife, Diane, as his mother is fading away with Alzheimer’s and ill health.  David still needs prayer for his health, but is doing better.  Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression. 

For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she’s disabled from a stroke and needs a carer during the day so Audley can go out and work).  Tim B with headaches, that his doctor will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton suffering from horrible infections in his bones. 

Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ )  Wisdom for doctors caring for so many, including Tim, Doris, David, Gary, Deb, Adrian and Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray the Lord’s hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read this devotion...that His mighty works would be worked out in each life for His purposes!  Galdor recovering from the loss of his mother and companion dog of 17 years --he also needs a new job.  For Yourri who lost a friend.  Please pray for Deepak as he struggles through some challenges.  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.  Adam who is becoming involved with a cult that’s filling many unmet needs.  Scott, for strength as he struggles and grows (for Donna as she encourages him).  For David K, in his studies.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations suffering from global financial mismanagement.

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Barbara’s (sister-in-law) and Hans’ (friend) projects have both ended and they need new work.  (Hans especially needs paying work – he’s been volunteering to fill the time.)  For Tim, my amazing brother that he might find satisfying work.  Paul K who resigned from his job and is setting up a consultancy.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

Fruit or Fruits?

“Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are:  immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes dissensions, factions, envying drunkenness, carousing, and things like these of which I forewarn you just as I have forewarned you that those who practice such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control; against such things there is no law.  Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.  If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Sprit.  Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.”  Galatians 5:23

“Not only will we find a hunger to know Christ, but a hunger to be LIKE Christ.  Paul talks about those things which will be the ‘fruit of the Spirit’ in the lives of Christians.  By ‘fruit’ he is describing the inevitable consequences of the Spirit’s presence in their lives.

“You will notice that the list is in the singular: ‘the fruit of the Spirit is...’ and not ‘the fruits of the Spirit are...’.  These are not nine different fruits, some of which may be evidenced in one life, and others in another, but all NINE qualities are together the expression of the Spirit’s work in our lives."*  

As I look at this list of fruit it makes me hungry for more understanding of Jesus Christ in my life.  These nine qualities are the fruit and the result of our intimacy with the Lord...He is so generous!

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

PS:  ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  Please send updates!  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:  Pray for Isaiac Catorce, his family and ministry in the Philippines where clean up is just beginning from the amazing floods ( see column to the left of this blog for more information):  “85 people confirmed dead.”  So much is needed after this devastating flood.  If the Lord lays it on your heart to help, contact Barbara Hanak at Ambassadors for Christ in Atlanta Georgia (bhanak@afciworld.org)

For Adrian who thought he finally found a place to rest and recover, but the people who were supposed to help him, have other things to do and need him to move again within the next couple of weeks.  There seems almost no social or health support for him.  Need a contact near Brisbane please! 

For Daniel Craver (3-4 yrs old), recovering from urgent liver surgery!  Cucuawe as he recovers from the trauma of his 17-year old daughter’s death.  Hans, a new hungry baby Christian needs to find fellowship --if you know any Christians near Essen Germany, please contact me as soon as possible.  Pray for me for a project in Canberra – the decision was delayed hope to hear about it this week.  I might even be able to come home for the holidays if the Lord allows this.  Pray for wisdom of my brother as he deals with an important matter.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  That the Lord loves and comforts us through challenges we could not face without Him.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for Deborah’s husband.  Paul NS.  Adrian’s pain meds not working well.  Tim (my little brother), needs financial help, especially with no health insurance needs a disability pension.   For Michael C, with his own health concerns & for his wife, Diane, as his mother is fading away with Alzheimer’s and ill health.  David still needs prayer for his health, but is doing better.  Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression. 

For a solution for Audley and Beverly (she’s disabled from a stroke and needs a carer during the day so Audley can go out and work).  Tim B with headaches, that his doctor will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton suffering from horrible infections in his bones. 

Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ )  Wisdom for doctors caring for so many, including Tim, Doris, David, Gary and Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray the Lord’s hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read this devotion...that His mighty works would be worked out in each life for His purposes!  Galdor recovering from the loss of his mother and companion dog of 17 years --he also needs a new job.  For Yourri who lost a friend.  Please pray for Deepak as he struggles through some challenges.  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.  Adam who is becoming involved with a cult that’s filling many unmet needs.  Scott, for strength as he struggles and grows ( and for Donna as she encourages him).  For David K, in his studies.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations suffering from global financial mismanagement.

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Barbara’s (sister-in-law) and Hans’ (friend) projects have both ended and they need new work.  (Hans especially needs paying work – he’s been volunteering to fill the time.)  For Tim, my amazing brother that he might find satisfying work.  Paul K who resigned from his job and is setting up a consultancy.

A third volume to the Amazon Books Kindle version of WeakDay Devotions was just published, called simply, “Forgiveness”.

*Christ For Real by Charles Price

  

There are now three Amazon Kindle books created from the WeakDay Devotions series entitled:  Secrets of a Deeper Life in Christ and A Missing Psalm, Forgiveness.  I hope putting these together in this new format will be a blessing to many more & will help support this ministry.