Sin Foundations - Bitter Lies

"When she saw that he had left his garment in her hand, and had fled outside, she called to the men of her household, and said to them. 'See, he has brought in a Hebrew to us to make sport of us; he came in to me to lie with me, and I screamed.  And it came about when he heard that I raised my voice and screamed, that he left his garment beside me and fled, and went outside,' 

"So she left his garment beside her until his master came home.  Then she spoke to him with these words, 'The Hebrew slave, whom you brought to us, came in to me to make sport of me'; and it happened as I raised my voice and screamed, that he left his garment beside me and fled outside.'" Genesis 39:13-18

I'm sure Potipher's wife was not used to getting her way in all things.  Honour would not be top of her mind when Joseph was just another slave.  However, her shock turned to rage and deceit when he chose honour over future prospects and favours. 

It would have been SO easy for Joseph to enjoy these hidden pleasures.  Having convictions of what is righteous can bring glory to the Father -- only if you choose His side!

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:  PaulNS has a very important meeting today about a project.  Kaitlyn (five year old) heart surgery is scheduled for this Thursday 31 Oct from 8AM-EST in Cleveland Clinic.  Met with the people about this project (which is in Australia, not the USA) and urgently need enough funds to cover the next month and a half, if I am to be able to do this work.    

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS?  

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Raven - is recovering, surrounded by the healing support of her family.  Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago has sent a most amazing letter of thanksgiving.  She is not 100% but says she is around 85%. 

Thank you for continuing to pray for Adrian - his pain is lessening and he's getting some normal movement back and preparing for more hospital time to relieve the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration. I hope to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Continue to pray for 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.  

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role. 

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now.  A 6-12 month project that looks like I will get won't start till late November.

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 - Justification

"And it came about after these events that his master's wife looked with desire at Joseph, and she said, 'Lie with me.'  But he refused and said to his master's wife, 'Behold, with me here my master does not concern himself with anything in the house, and he has put all that he owns in my charge.  There is no one greater in this house than I, and he has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife.  How then could I do this great evil, and sin against God?'

"And it came about as she spoke to Joseph day after day, that he did not listen to her to lie beside her, or be with her.  Now it happened one day that he went into the house to do his work, and none of the men of the household was there inside.  And she caught him by his garment, saying, 'Lie with me!'  And he left his garment in her hand and fled, and went outside." Genesis 39:7-12

Joseph was attractive, trustworthy, honourable, skilled and studied.  He was also humble, realistic and somewhat naive.  But he kept his heavenly Father in the centre of his life and when confronted made it clear he was grateful for his position of advantage in Potipher's household, but not interested in evil behaviour against God.   

It would have been so easy to give in -- he had a many reasons to justify giving in -- his family's treatment of him in the past, his time of being a slave, his lack or real power, how attractive she was, how lonely he was....Well you see the point.  But he focused on what would bring glory to the Lord.

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:  Kaitlyn (five year old) heart surgery is scheduled for this Thursday 31 Oct from 8AM-EST in Cleveland Clinic.  I have just been asked to work on a wonderful project from the USA, but urgently need enough funds to cover the next month and a half, if I am to be able to do this work.  PaulNS needs a positive result from his many meetings as he searches for a project. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS?  

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Raven - is recovering, surrounded by the healing support of her family.  Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago has sent a most amazing letter of thanksgiving.  She is not 100% but says she is around 85%. 

Thank you for continuing to pray for Adrian - his pain is lessening and he's getting some normal movement back and preparing for more hospital time to relieve the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration. I hope to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Continue to pray for 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.  

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role. 

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now.  A 6-12 month project that looks like I will get won't start till late November.

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 - Double Standard

"Now it was about three months later that Judah was informed, 'Your daughter-in-law Tamar has played the harlot, and behold, she is also with child by harlotry.'  Then Judah said, 'Bring here out, and let her be burned!'

"It was while she was being brought out that she sent to her father-in-law, saying, 'I am with child by the man to whom these things belong.'  And she said, 'Please examine and see, whose signet ring and cords and staff are these?; 

"And Judah recognised them, and said, 'She is more righteous than I, inasmuch as I did not give her to my son Shelah.'  And he did not have relations with her again."  Genesis 38:24-26

People use the Bible for lots of stuff...especially when it can be used to justify their behaviour or condemn another -- especially pre-believers.  But God never intended to have us judge one another - just think back to where this series began.

"I will not punish your daughters when they play the harlot or your brides when they commit adultery, for the men themselves go apart with harlots and offer sacrifices with temple prostitutes; so the people without understanding are ruined." Hosea 4:14

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:  I have just been asked to work on a wonderful project from the USA, but urgently need enough funds to cover the next month and a half, if I am to be able to do this work.  PaulNS needs a positive result from his many meetings as he searches for a project. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS?  

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Raven - is recovering, surrounded by the healing support of her family.  Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago has sent a most amazing letter of thanksgiving.  She is not 100% but says she is around 85%.  Thank you for continuing to pray for Adrian - his pain is lessening and he's getting some normal movement back and preparing for more hospital time to relieve the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration. I hope to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Continue to pray for 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.  

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role. 

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now.  A 6-12 month project that looks like I will get won't start till late November.

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 - Lust & Impatience

"And it was told to Tamar, 'Behold your father-in-law is going up to Timnah to shear his sheep.'  So she removed her widow's garments and covered herself, and sat in the gateway of Enaim, which is on the road to Timnah; for she saw that Shelah had grown up, and she had not been given to him as a wife.  When Judah saw her, he thought she was a harlot, for she had covered her face.  So he turned aside to her by the road, and said, 'Here now, let me come in to you'; for he did not know that she was his daughter-in-law. 

"And she said, 'What will you give me, that you may come in to me?'  He said, therefore, 'I will send you a kid from the flock.  She said, moreover, 'Will you give a pledge until you send it?'  And he said, 'What pledge shall I give you?'  And she said, 'Your seal and your cord, and your staff that is in your hand.'  So he gave them to her, and went in to her, and she conceived by him.  Then she arose and departed, and removed her veil and put on her widow's garments." Genesis 38:13-19

Tamar was chosen by Jacob to leave her family and her Caananite religion to convert to faith in the one true God; and accept the promise of her future as part of God's plan.  It was not her fault that the two rebellious sons of Judah died before giving her a child, but she was ignored and forgotten.  Perhaps Judah thought if she married his last son, he too would die. 

Tamar resorted to deception to see her promise fulfilled.  And although we see prostitution quite different today from the "respectable" duty it was of many pagan women (sometimes all the women in a city would serve as temple prostitutes).  In all of this what is remarkable is that God STILL worked our HIS plan for HIS glory through the fumbling determination of the people involved.

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:  This morning PaulNS, has a very important meeting that could result in his finally finding a suitable project. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS?  

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago has sent a most amazing letter of thanksgiving.  She is not 100% but says she is around 85%.  Thank you for continuing to pray for Adrian - his pain is lessening and he's getting some normal movement back and preparing for more hospital time to relieve the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - has just had the final dose of chemo and is recovering, surrounded by the healing support of her family.  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration. I hope to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Continue to pray for 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.  

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role. 

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now.  A 6-12 month project that looks like I will get won't start till late November.

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 - Defiance

"Now Judah took a wife for Er his firstborn, and her name was Tamar.  but Er, Judah's first-born was evil in the sight of the Lord, so the Lord took his life.  Then Judah said to Onan, 'Go in to your brother's wife, and perform your duty as a brother-in-law to her, and raise up off-spring for your brother.' 

"And Onan knew that the offspring would not be his; so it came about that when he went in to his brother's wife, he wasted his seed on the ground, in order not to give offspring to his brother.  But what he did was displeasing in the sight of the Lord; so He took his life also."  Genesis 38:6-10

Judah went to live with unbelievers; to marry outside the faith of his fathers.  For Judah's first son, although not specified, the sin was likely focused on the different family's approach to faith, since he would be influenced greatly by his mother.  After Er died, Onan defied his family duty because he didn't want to give a child to his brother.  His sin was not that he wasted his seed, but that he wasted his seed in defiance of his father's wishes.

In Genesis we see this recurrent theme of an immediate plunge from grace, whenever faith is no longer an active force in someone's life.  When Judah, in his grief and guilt, chose to leave his family and live away from believers, his faith began to cool.  But God's plan would be met one way or another -- Tamar would be in the linage of Jesus Christ.

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:  Pray for those in the aftermath of the bushfires in New South Wales.  PNS, as he continues his search for a new project role. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS?  

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago has sent a most amazing letter of thanksgiving.  She is not 100% but says she is around 85%.  Thank you for continuing to pray for Adrian - his pain is lessening and he's getting some normal movement back and preparing for more hospital time to relieve the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - has just had the final dose of chemo and is recovering, surrounded by the healing support of her family.  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration. I hope to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  For Audley and Beverly’s situation and his new endeavour.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Continue to pray for 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.  

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role. 

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now.  A 6-12 month project that looks like I will get won't start till late November.

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 - Guilt

"And it came about at that time, that Judah departed from his brothers and visited a certain Adullamite, whose name was Hirah.  And Judah saw there a daughter of a certain Canaanite whose name was Shua; and he took her and went in to her. 

"So she conceived and bore a son and he named him Er.  Then she conceived and bore a son and named him Onan.  And she bore still another son and named him Shelah; and it was at Cherzib that she bore him." Genesis 38:1-5

Judah, like Reuben, was the son of Leah, a child born to a mother not wanted by his father.  Like Reuben, Judah tried to find a way around killing Joseph.  He chose profit from selling Joseph rather than death.  But his life would never be the same.  He left the "family" to settle eight miles away and married into a Cannanite family without even consulting his father.  Yet God had a plan no matter what Judah might want or do and His plan would work out through Judah. 

God knows when we will disobey.  God knows the rational we will whisper to ourselves.  He knows the guilt that will cover us like a clear film, suffocating our ability to think clearly.  Nevertheless, His plan will continue to be worked out one way or another for His glory and His purposes.  Rest in that...it is so true!  Have a good weekend.

"Am I a God who is near," declares the Lord, 'and not a God far off?  Can a man hide himself in hiding places, so I do not see him?' declares the Lord.  'Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?' declares the Lord." Jeremiah 23:23-24

"'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the lord, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.  Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.  And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13

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:  Pray for those facing the worst day of bush fires in New South Wales.  PNS, as he goes for yet another meeting today in regard to a new project role. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray for heart healing for Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago and still can't move on from her loss!  Fand lost her father-in-law, please pray for the family.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  In a most miraculous way, Hans has found a job.  Thank you for praying.  Adrian's pain is lessening and he is able to work on getting some normal movement back.  He is preparing for hospitalisation to relieve the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - has just had the final dose of chemo and is surrounded by the healing support of her family as she recovers.  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration - I would love to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  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.  

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role. 

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now.  A 6-12 month project that looks like I will get won't start till late November.

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 - Refusing Consolation

"So Jacob tore his clothes, and put sackcloth on his loins, and mourned for his son many days.  Then all his sons and all his daughters arose to comfort him, but he refused to be comforted.  And he said, 'Surely I will go down to Sheol in mourning for my son.'  So his father wept for him.  Meanwhile, the Midianites sold him in Egypt to Potiphar, Pharaoh's officer, the captain of the bodyguard." Genesis 27:34-36

Today would have been my Mom's 93rd birthday...but she has been gone a long time now.  When I lost her, as when I lost my Dad, I thought I would never recover.  But there is a time to move forward into the rest of life. 

Jacob would not be consoled and I would think this would unknowingly add to the grief and regret and guilt of his boys.

"There is an appointed time for everything.  And there is a time for every event under heaven -- a time to give birth, and a time to die, a time to plant, and a time to uproot what is planted.  A time to kill, and a time to heal' a time to tear down, and a time to build up. 

"A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to throw stones, and a time to gather stones; a time to embrace, and a time to shun embracing.  A time to search, and a time to give up as lost; a time to keep and a time to throw away.  A time to tear apart, and a time to sew together; a time to be silent, and a time to speak.  A time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace."  Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

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:  Pray for those facing the worst day of bush fires in New South Wales.  PNS, as he goes for yet another meeting today in regard to a new project role. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray for heart healing for Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago and still can't move on from her loss!  Fand lost her father-in-law, please pray for the family.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  In a most miraculous way, Hans has found a job.  Thank you for praying.  Adrian's pain is lessening and he is able to work on getting some normal movement back.  He is preparing for hospitalisation to relieve the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - has just had the final dose of chemo and is surrounded by the healing support of her family as she recovers.  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration - I would love to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  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.  

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role. 

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now.  A 6-12 month project that looks like I will get won't start till late November.

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 - Cowardly Lying

"So they took Joseph's tunic, and slaughtered a male goat, and dipped the tunic in the blood; and they sent the varicoloured tunic and brought it to their father, and said, 'We found this; please examine it to see whether it is your son's tunic or not.' 

"Then he examined it and said, 'It is my son's tunic.  A wild beast has devoured him; Joseph has surely been torn to pieces!'  So Jacob tore his clothes, and put sackcloth on his loins and mourned for his son many days." Genesis 37:31-34

This is really a remarkably sad scene.  The sons collaborate, they do not even lie, they act completely innocent and let their father come to his own conclusions.  They didn't say this could be our brothers, but distanced themselves from the act and their brother in this way.  All this to try to deflect the guilt that was theirs!

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:  Pray for those facing the worst day of bush fires in New South Wales.  PNS, as he goes for yet another meeting today in regard to a new project role. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray for heart healing for Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago and still can't move on from her loss!  Fand lost her father-in-law, please pray for the family.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  In a most miraculous way, Hans has found a job.  Thank you for praying.  Adrian's pain is lessening and he is able to work on getting some normal movement back.  He is preparing for hospitalisation to relieve the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - has just had the final dose of chemo and is surrounded by the healing support of her family as she recovers.  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration - I would love to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  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.  

ONGOING JOB RELATED:  Barbara (sister-in-law) that the Lord would encourage her as she waits for a new project or full time role. 

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now. 

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 - Ill-Gotten Gain

"They sat down to eat a meal.  And as they raised their eyes and looked, behold a caravan of Ishmaelites was coming from Gilead, with their camels bearing aromatic gum and balm of myrrh, on their way to bring them down to Egypt.  And Judah said to his brothers, 'What profit is it for us to kill our brother and cover up his blood? 

"'Come and let us sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; for he is our brother, our own flesh.'  and his brothers listened to him.  Then some Midianite traders passed by, so they pulled him up and lifted Joseph out of the pit, and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver.  Thus they brought Joseph into Egypt." Genesis 37:25-28

There are people who would rather profit from the suffering of others rather than help them.  How very sad it must make our loving heavenly Father.  Judah was the child of Leah and perhaps his resentment had grown throughout his life watching the special care taken with Joseph, yet over time he learned some redeeming qualities.

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 goes for yet another meeting today in regard to a new project role.  For Hans as he urgently needs a job. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray for heart healing for Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago and still can't move on from her loss!  Fand lost her father-in-law, please pray for the family.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   Adrian's pain is lessening and he is able to work on getting some normal movement back.  He is preparing for new tests and hospitalisation for the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - has just had the final dose of chemo for her cancer and is surrounded by the healing support of her family as she recovers.  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration - I would love to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  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.  

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 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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now. 

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 - Out of Sight

"So it came about, when Joseph reached his brothers, that they stripped Joseph of his tunic, the varicoloured tunic that was on him; and they took him and threw him into the pit.  Now the pit was empty, without any water in it.  Then they sat down to eat a meal"  Genesis 37:23-25a

We know when something is wrong and we also know that we can pretend to bury things, hoping that once out-of-sight and out-of-mind, it is also no longer an issue.  But that never works!  That's when we need to pull out the "Spiritual Soap".

"If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His Word is not in us."  I John 1:8-10

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 goes for yet another meeting today in regard to a new project role.  For Hans as he urgently needs a job. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray for heart healing for Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago and still can't move on from her loss!  Fand lost her father-in-law, please pray for the family.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   Adrian's pain is lessening and he is able to work on getting some normal movement back.  He is preparing for new tests and hospitalisation for the pain from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - has just had the final dose of chemo for her cancer and is surrounded by the healing support of her family as she recovers.  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration - I would love to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.  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.  

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now. 

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.  

A Special Song for You

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.  For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through Him. 

"He who believes in Him is not judged, he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.  And this is the judgment, that the light is come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the light; for their deeds were evil. 

"For everyone who does evil hates the light, and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.  But he who practices the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be manifested as having been wrought in God.'" John 3:16-21

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 Hans as he urgently needs a job.  Adrian's pain is continuing and intensifying.  He will be hospitalised for new tests because the pain now is from the damage done to his spine from the cancer. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Pray for heart healing for Patty, who lost her three year old daughter four years ago and still can't move on from her loss!  Fand lost her father-in-law, please pray for the family.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   Thank you for your prayers for wisdom in dealing with the details of a charitable foundation I founded.  The fighting in the Philippines is nearly over.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is now home surrounded by the healing support of her family 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.  

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 - the end of the month is a brick wall for me now. 

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 - Fear To Do Right

"But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, 'Let us not take his life.'  Reuben further said to them, 'Shed no blood.  Throw him into this pit that is in the wilderness, but do not lay hands on him' -- that he might rescue him out of their hands, to restore him to his father."  Genesis 37:21-22

Have you ever been afraid to do the right thing in front of others who might argue with you, or hurt you in some way?  It is difficult to stand up for what is right sometimes...yet...

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 Hans as he urgently needs a job.  Adrian's pain is continuing and intensifying.  He will be hospitalised for new tests because the pain now is from the damage done to his spine from the cancer.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:   Thank you for your prayers for wisdom in dealing with the details of a charitable foundation I founded.  The fighting in the Philippines is nearly over.  Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Raven - is now home surrounded by the healing support of her family 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.  

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.