Sin Foundations - Pattern of Deceit

"Shechem also said to her father and to her brothers, 'If I find favour in your sight, then I will give whatever you say to me.  Ask me ever so much bridal payment and gifts, and I will give according as you say to me; but give me the girl in marriage.' 

"But Jacob's sons answered Shechem and his father Hamor, with deceit, and spoke to them, because he had defiled Dinah their sister.  And they said to them, We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one who is uncircumcised, for that would be a disgrace to us. 

"Only on this condition will we consent to you:  if you will become like us, in that every male of you be circumcised, then we will give our daughters to you, and we will take your daughters for ourselves, and we will live with you and become one people.  But if you will not listen to us to be circumcised, then we will take our daughter and go.'"  Genesis 34:11-17

Dinah had purposefully left the protective care of her family to wander into a city with different customs, where women were chattel to be used freely and/or bargained with.  Shechem was the son of the leader and used to getting his way, but found he truly loved her, treated her tenderly (after he forced her), took her home to the protection of his family and did what was right in his culture:  to appeal to the father of his intended. 

God had warned that His people should have nothing to do with the Caanites.  Here continued deceit in a family rife with deceit, descends into something more sinister and horrific on both sides.  Two wrongs never make a right!

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role.  Help me know how to deal with a business matter concerning a charitable foundation I founded.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  "Squid" just lost his very special uncle.  Fand's uncle very ill and near death.  Barb (sister-in-law) was called about a job (networking and persistence seems to be paying off for her!)  Interview is this week.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   The fighting in the Philippines is nearly over now.  Thank you for praying.  God had a gentle surprise for Deborah as she faced her difficult situation.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is now in a recovery facility as she completes her cancer therapy.  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two surviving sons of Melanie Karunaratne in New Zealand.  Adrian is home and in such significant pain he is no longer able to think clearly.  Pray for the person who has so kindly given him a place to live during these many long months of disability.  Randir has angina and will need to manage it. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him. 

For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac's Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures and for Isaac in the Philippines where his ministry is searching for the Lord's fruit.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.  

Sin Foundations - Rape

"Now Dinah the daughter of Leah, whom she had born to Jacob, went out to visit the daughters of the land.  And when Shechem the son of Hamor the Hivite, the prince of the land saw her, he took her and lay with her by force." Genesis 34:1-2

Somehow rape seems prevalent today with one in every four to five women experiencing rape in their lifetimes.  Dinah was the only daughter mentioned of Jacob's and now her life is changed forever.

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role.  Help me know how to deal with a business matter concerning a charitable foundation I founded.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  "Squid" just lost his very special uncle.  Fand's uncle very ill and near death.  Barb (sister-in-law) was called about a job (networking and persistance seems to be paying off for her!)  Interview is this week.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   The fighting in the Philippines is nearly over now.  Thank you for praying.  God had a gentle surprise for Deborah as she faced her difficult situation.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is now in a recovery facility as she completes her cancer therapy.  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two surviving sons of Melanie Karunaratne in New Zealand.  Adrian is home and in such significant pain he is no longer able to think clearly.  Pray for the person who has so kindly given him a place to live during these many long months of disability.  Randir has angina and will need to manage it.  

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him. 

For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac's Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures and for Isaac in the Philippines where his ministry is searching for the Lord's fruit.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.  

Sin Foundations - Planned Losses

"Then Jacob lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, Esau was coming, and four hundred men with him.  So he divided the children among Leah and Rachel and the two maids.  And he put the maids and their children in front, and Leah and her children next, and Rachel and Joseph last. 

"But he himself passed on ahead of them and bowed down to the ground seven times until he came near to his brother.  Then Esau ran to meet him and embraced him, and fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept."  Genesis 33:1-4

In his longing to see his brother, who he knew had every right to his anger and even revenge, he sent many gifts.  Now as the procession of gifts was exhausted, he was facing the possibility of losing it all, including his life and the lives of his wives and children.  So he carefully heads up a final a parade of his loved ones, with what must have seemed to him, to be the least of value to the most in the back.  Yet God loved every one of them so much! 

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role.  For the civil unrest and fighting in the Philippines.  Help me know how to deal with a business matter concerning a charitable foundation I founded.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Randir has had a heart attack.  "Squid" just lost his very special uncle.  Fand's uncle very ill and near death.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   God had a gentle surprise for Deborah as she faced her difficult situation.  My little brother, Tim, and his wife Barb that he may have an opportunity for satisfying work.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is now in a recovery facility as she completes her cancer therapy.  David R just been declared legally blind from macular degeneration.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two surviving sons of Melanie Karunaratne in New Zealand.  Adrian is home and in such significant pain he is no longer able to think clearly.  Pray for the person who has so kindly given him a place to live during these many long months of disability. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him. 

For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac's Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures and for Isaac in the Philippines where his ministry is searching for the Lord's fruit.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.  

Sin Foundations - Guilty Fear

"And the messengers returned to Jacob, saying, 'We came to your brother Esau, and furthermore he is coming to meet you, and four hundred men are with him.'  Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed; and he divided the people who were with him, and the flocks and the herds and the camels, into two companies; for he said, 'If Esau comes to the one company and attacks it, then the company which is left will escape.'" Genesis 32:6-8

God is working all around us all the time for His purposes and for His glory and for His plan for our lives to work out well for His glory.  There are two things to remember during time of guilty fear:

"And as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive." Genesis 50:20

"In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation (full, complete and perfect payment) for our sins. -- There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love.  We love because He first loved us."  I John 1:10, 18, 19

What Jacob did was wrong.  His guilt was justified, yet God's plan overrides all the whirling emotion and actions surrounding us, even in the midst of what we believe is evil.  Trusting God in the midst of the worst, brings about the best in us too.

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role.  For the civil unrest and fighting in the Philippines.  Help me know how to deal with a business matter concerning a charitable foundation I founded.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Liz just had a miscarriage at four months.  David R just been declared legally blind from macular degeneration.  "Squid" just lost his very special uncle.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   God had a gentle surprise for Deborah as she faced her difficult situation.  My little brother, Tim, and his wife Barb that he may have an opportunity for satisfying work.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is now in a recovery facility as she completes her cancer therapy.    For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two sons of Melanie Karunaratne (recently passed away).  Adrian is home and in such significant pain he is no longer able to think clearly.  Pray for the person who has so kindly given him a place to live during these many long months of disability. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him. 

For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac's Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures and for Isaac in the Philippines where his ministry is searching for the Lord's fruit.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first. 

Sin Foundations - Poorly Done By

"Then Jacob became and contended with Laban; and Jacob answered and said to Laban, 'What is my transgression?  What is my sin, that you have hotly pursued me?  Though have felt through all my goods, what have you found of all your household goods?  Set it here before my kinsmen and your kinsmen, that they may decide between us two. 

"These twenty years I have been with you; your ewes and your female goats have not miscarried, nor have I eaten the rams of your flocks.  That which was born of beasts I did not bring to you; I bore the loss of it myself.  You required it of my hand whether stolen by day or stolen by night. 

"Thus I was:  by day and the heat consumed me, and the frost by night, and my sleep fled from my eyes.  These twenty years I have been in your house; I served you fourteen years for your two daughters and six years for your flock, and you changed my wages ten times. 

"If the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, had not been for me, surely now you would have sent me away empty handed.  God has seen my affliction and the toil of my hands, so He rendered judgment last night.'" Genesis 31:36-42

Laban was both wrong and right as was Jacob in this confrontation.  There's a tinge of bitterness in Jacob's speech as he rehearses how poorly done by he feels he has been.  He thankfully gives God glory for hearing his cry.

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role.  Pray that Deborah has God's grace in a very difficult situation.  For the civil unrest and fighting in the Philippines.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Liz just had a miscarriage at four months.  David R just been declared legally blind from macular degeneration.  "Squid" just lost his very special uncle.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   Thank you for all your prayers for my brother, Tim.  He may have an opportunity for satisfying work.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is now in a recovery facility as she completes her cancer therapy.    For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two sons of Melanie Karunaratne (recently passed away).  Adrian is home but so agitated from all the procedures and treatments for his cancer, he is beginning to forget about thanksgiving.  Pray for the person who has so kindly given him a place to live during these many long months of disability. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) has had a few very promising job interviews.  Pray the Lord has one of these positions for her.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him. 

For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac's Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures in the Philippines where his ministry is searching for the Lord's fruit.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.  

Sin Foundations - Premeditated Lies

"So Laban went into Jacob's tent, and into Leah's tent, and into the tent of the two maids, but he did not find them.  Then he went out of Leah's tent and entered Rachel's tent.  Now Rachel had taken the household idols and put them in the camel's saddle, and she sat on them.  And Laban felt through all the tent, but did not find them.

"And she said to her father, 'Let not my lord be angry that I cannot rise before you, for the manner of women is upon me.'  So he searched, but did not find the household idols."  Genesis 31:33-35

I wonder if Rachel heard the exchange between her father and her husband about what would happen if the idols were found.  I wonder if she feared her husband or her father more.  I wonder why she chose such deceit. 

Sometimes I wonder why I do the things I do too, even when I know I should not!

"For the good that I wish, I do not do; but I practice the very evil that I do not wish.  But if I am doing the very things I do not wish, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me.  I find then, the principle that evil is present in me, the one who wishes to do good. 

"For I joyfully concur with the law  of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in the members of my body, waging war against the waw of my mind, and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is in my members.  Wretched man that I am!  Who will set me free from this body of this death?'" 

"Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!  So then, on the one hand I myself with my mind am serving the law of God, but on the other, with my felsh the law of sin.'" Romans 7:19-25

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role.  Pray that Deborah has God's grace in a very difficult situation.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Liz just had a miscarriage at four months.  David R just been declared legally blind from macular degeneration.  "Squid" just lost his very special uncle.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   Thank you for all your prayers for my brother, Tim, and his wife Barb.  And he may have an opportunity for satisfying work!  Through a State-funded program, their mortgage payment will now be made for the next 18 months.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is still in hospital undergoing cancer therapy.    For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two sons of Melanie Karunaratne (recently passed away).  Adrian is home but so agitated from all the procedures and treatments for his cancer, he is beginning to forget about thanksgiving.  Pray for the person who has so kindly given him a place to live during these many long months of disability. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) has had a few very promising job interviews.  Pray the Lord has one of these positions for her.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him.  

For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac and Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures and for the unrest and civil war in the Philippines where his ministry is searching for the Lord's fruit.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.  

Sin Foundations - Dangerous Words

"And Laban caught up with Jacob.  Now Jacob had pitched his tent in the hill country, and Laban with his kinsmen camped in the hill country of Gilead.  Then Laban said to Jacob, 'What have you done by deceiving me and carrying away my daughters like captives of the sword? 

"'Why did you flee secretly and deceive me, and did not tell me, so that I might have sent you away with joy and with songs, with timbrel and with lyre; and did not allow me to kiss my sons and my daughters?  Now you have done foolishly.  'It is in my power to do you harm, but the God of your father spoke to me last night saying, 'Be careful not to speak either good or bad to Jacob.  And now you have indeed gone away because you longed greatly for your fathers house; but why did you steal my gods?'

"Then Jacob answered and said to Laban, 'Because I was afraid, for I said, 'Lest you would take your daughters from me by force.'  The one with whom you find your gods shall not live; in the presence of our kinsmen point what is yours among my belongings and take it for yourself.'  For Jacob did not know that Rachel had stolen them."  Genesis 31:25-32

Our words and thoughts can cause us tremendous damage, even if we do not take action upon them.  Laban has pursued Jacob, not for his household gods, but because he wanted to keep Jacob and his family against their will and prosper from their hard labour, wisdom and standing with God.  He meant harm.  God intervened by convicting him of his sin.  And then, when confronted, Jacob makes a quick vow that would put those he loved at risk.   

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Liz just had a miscarriage at four months.  David R just been declared legally blind from macular degeneration.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   Thank you for all your prayers for my brother, Tim, and his wife Barb.  And he may have an opportunity for satisfying work!  Through a State-funded program, their mortgage payment will now be made for the next 18 months.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is still in hospital undergoing cancer therapy.    For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two sons of Melanie Karunaratne (recently passed away).  Adrian is home but so agitated from all the procedures and treatments for his cancer, he is beginning to forget about thanksgiving.  Pray for the person who has so kindly given him a place to live during these many long months of disability. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) has had a few very promising job interviews.  Pray the Lord has one of these positions for her.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him. 

For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac and Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures and for the unrest and civil war in the Philippines where his ministry is searching for the Lord's fruit.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  Please pray for Deborah as she deals with a difficult situation.  Give her focus and comfort for her hurting heart as He brings about His will in this situation. 

For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.  

Sin Foundations - Entitlement

"Then Jacob arose and put his children and his wives upon camels; and he drove away all his livestock and all his property which he had gathered, his acquired lifestock which he had gathered in Paddan-aram, to go to the land of Canaan to his father Isaac. 

"When Laban had gone to shear his flock, then Rachel stole the household idols that were her father's.  And Jacob deceived Laban the Aramean, by not telling him that he was fleeing.  So he fled with all that he had; and he arose and crossed the Euphrates River, and set his face toward the hill country of Gilead." Genesis 31:17-21

When we are convinced that we are entitled to something that is not ours, temptation lurks. How sad that this was Jacob's favourite too.

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  Please take time today to remember and pray for all those who were affected by the horrible 9/11 tragedy today.   PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role.  Those affected by the bush fires raging in Sydney now.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Liz just had a miscarriage at four months.  David R just been declared legally blind from macular degeneration.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Elina had victory with her challenge yesterday,  thank you for praying.  PB is now feeling stronger.  Heidi has now been awarded full time work.  Tarrega is home recovering after a heart procedure. 

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is still in hospital undergoing cancer therapy.  Tim (my little brother) with CPRD, needs financial help and satisfying work.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Carlton still suffering from horrible infections and pain in his bones.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two sons Melanie Karunaratne - who just passed away.  Adrian is home but still suffering from the many procedures he's undergone - still very weak and unable to eat properly. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) has had a few very promising job interviews.  Pray the Lord has one of these positions for her.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him. 

For PJ. that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac and Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  Please pray for Deborah as she deals with a difficult situation.  Give her focus and comfort for her hurting heart as He brings about His will in this situation. 

For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.  

Sin Foundations - Me, Me & Mine

"So Jacob sent and called Rachel and Leah to his flock in the field, and said to them, 'I see your father's attitude, that it is not friendly toward me as formerly, but the God of my father has been with me.  And you know that I have served your father with all my strength.  Yet your father has cheated me and changed my wages ten times; however, God did not allow him to hurt me.

"Thus God has taken away your father's livestock and given them to me.

And Rachel and Leah answered and said to him, 'Do we still have any portion or inheritance in our father's house?  Are we not reckoned by him as foreigners?  For he has sold us, and has also entirely consumed our purchase price.  Surely all the wealth which God has taken away from our father belongs to us and our children; now then, do whatever God has said to you.'" Genesis 31:4-7, 9, 14-16

The women thought only of their own and their children's wealth and didn't much care what happened as long as they did not lose anything in the venture.  Jacob choose obedience to God's call this time. 

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role.  Elina, that our Father would give her clarity on doing what is right in the midst of her storm and for tomorrow especially.  Those affected by the bush fires raging in Sydney now.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Liz just had a miscarriage at four months.  David R just been declared legally blind from macular degeneration.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  PB is now feeling stronger.  Heidi has now been awarded full time work.  Tarrega is home recovering after a heart procedure. 

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is still in hospital undergoing cancer therapy.  Tim (my little brother) with CPRD, needs financial help and satisfying work.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Carlton still suffering from horrible infections and pain in his bones.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two sons Melanie Karunaratne - who just passed away.  Adrian is home but still suffering from the many procedures he's undergone - still very weak and unable to eat properly. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) has had a few very promising job interviews.  Pray the Lord has one of these positions for her.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him. 

For PJ. that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac and Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  Please pray for Deborah as she deals with a difficult situation.  Give her focus and comfort for her hurting heart as He brings about His will in this situation. 

For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.  

Sin Foundations - Suspicion & Politics

"Now Jacob heard the words of Laban's sons, saying, 'Jacob has taken away all that was our father's, and from what belonged to our father he has made all this wealth.  And Jacob saw the attitude of Laban, and behold, it was not friendly toward him as formerly. 

"Then the Lord said to Jacob, 'Return to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and I will be with you." Genesis 31:1-3

God's plans are never thwarted by man's scheming.  Can you imagine this household, where everyone listened out to hear what others were saying.  This is politics in action.

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  PNS, as he waits to hear the results of his pursuit of a great project role.  Elina, that our Father would give her clarity on doing what is right in the midst of her storm and for tomorrow especially. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  .  David R just been declared legally blind from macular degeneration.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  PB is now feeling stronger.  Heidi has now been awarded full time work.  Tarrega is home recovering after a heart procedure. 

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is still in hospital undergoing cancer therapy.  Tim (my little brother) with CPRD, needs financial help and satisfying work.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Carlton still suffering from horrible infections and pain in his bones.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Pray for the two sons Melanie Karunaratne - who just passed away.  Adrian is home but still suffering from the many procedures he's undergone - still very weak and unable to eat properly. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) has had a few very promising job interviews.  Pray the Lord has one of these positions for her.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him. 

For PJ. that he may find projects to fill his needs.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

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 in surprising and wonderful ways!

Isaac and Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures.  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as she adjusts to this time away. 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  Please pray for Deborah as she deals with a difficult situation.  Give her focus and comfort for her hurting heart as He brings about His will in this situation. 

For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her wonderful family.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.  

Sin Foundations - Genetic Manipulation

"So he said, 'What shall I give you?'  And Jacob said, 'You shall not give me anything.  If you will do this one thing for me, I will again pasture and keep your flock, let me pass through your entire flock today, removing from there every speckled and spotted sheep, and every black on among the lambs, and the spotted and speckled among the goats, and such shall be my wages. 

"So my honesty will answer for me later, when you come, concerning my wages.  Every one that is not speckled and spotted among the goats and black among the lambs, if found with me, will be considered stolen.'  And Laban said, 'Good, let it be according to your word.'" Genesis 30:31-34

Jacob pulled a fast one on Laban who had pulled a fast one on Jacob to start this cycle.  In his many years of service to Laban, Jacob was observant of nature and to increase his wealth, he manipulated the circumstances of the lambs and goats while they mated (verses35-42).  The last verse of this chapter puts it this way:

"So the man (Jacob) became exceedingly prosperous, and had large flocks and female and male servants and camels and donkeys." Genesis 30:43

God had a plan and He was working it despite all the plots and shenanigans that those involved acted out! 

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 through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  Please pray for:  Isaac and his family are finally home in Manila.  The Philippines are in clean up mode after typhoon Ondoy.  Isaac's Dad (84 years old) after a heart attack still needs procedures. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Elina, that our Father would give her peace, strength and courage in her storm.  Scott for mental and physical healing, God focus and ability to think clearly.  Deepak asks us to pray for the two young sons of Melanie Karunaratne - who just passed away.  Adrian is home but still suffering from the many procedures he's undergone - still very weak and unable to eat properly. 

Raven - her cancer has spread to her lymph nodes, bone scan came back ok second time around, lungs are still iffy, but the spots are too small and too close to blood vessels to safely biopsy right now - looking at four rounds of chemo, then radiation, then pill.  Chemo starts this Thursday (15 Aug). 

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  PB is now feeling stronger.  Heidi has now been awarded full time work.  John, Patti's husband is recovering well after his second knee surgery.  Tarrega is home recovering after a heart procedure. 

Betinna's husband, Jim (with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia) got to go out from the hospital for the first time for his birthday!  She thanks everyone for their prayers.  PNS is feeling better and needs our prayers as he continues to look for a job and that he will continue to grow in strength.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:   David R doing well through complicated health challenges.  Tim (my little brother) with CPRD, needs financial help and satisfying work.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Carlton still suffering from horrible infections and pain in his bones.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her.  For PJ

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) has had a few very promising job interviews.  Pray the Lord has one of these positions for her.  Be with Hans as he struggles through changes in his life – that he'll cling securely to the Lord and that there will be an unexpected, satisfying job in his chosen field for him.  Please pray for a new project for me and the wisdom of my next steps. 

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray for Milo as he studies in Germany till February and for his mom, Sabine as adjusts to this time away.  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 in surprising and wonderful ways! 

Carla & Paul K for good results from their business plans.  Please pray for Deborah as she deals with a difficult situation.  Give her focus and comfort for her hurting heart as He brings about His will in this situation. 

For Linda and Ian.  For Rob and his daughter.  For Reg.  Pray for Annette and her career adventures.  Pray for wisdom for my brother as he deals with an important matter.  For David K, in his studies and Matthew K as he grows up.  Elaine and Jim back in Hong Kong.

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there and for the many nations and individuals suffering from global financial mismanagement.  Pray for the Catholic Church and that the new Pope will always put Jesus first.