What is Providence?

"'Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.  Are you not worth much more than they? 

"'And which of you by being anxious can add a single cubit to his life's span?  And why are you anxious about clothing?  Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil dor do they spin, yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory did not clothe himself like one of these.

"'But if God so arrays the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more do so for you, O men of little faith?  'Do not be anxious then, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'With what shall we clothe ourselves? 

"'For all these things the Gentiles eagerly seek; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.  But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.  Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own.'" Matthew 6:26-34

"Well-known theologian J. I. Packer defines providence as, 'The unceasing activity of the Creator whereby, in overflowing bounty and goodwill, He upholds His creatures in ordered existence, guides and governs all events, circumstances, and free acts of angels and men, and directs everything to its appointed goal, for HIS own glory.'

"I have developed a slightly shorter definition that I can more easily remember:  God's providence is His constant care for and His absolute rule over all His creation for His own glory and the good of His people."*

He cares for the big things and the little things that touch us; He watches and holds us when it seems to be too much - for His glory.  Have a good weekend!

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:  

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:   Pray for Jen as she recovers from a terrible flu.  Pray for Bon who lives in the floor-ravaged Cornwall UK.  Pray for Emily that she can find a way to extend her Visa to Australia.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Pray for Adrian who has had a bit of respite from his growing pain from this cancer.  Please pray for wisdom for his doctors.  He has suffered so and yet still praises our Father! 

Thanks that the Lord held Deb's hand during her court appearance and that what eventuates, gives her heart peace.

Thanks to the Father for the blessing to Carla and Paul yesterday!  Thank our Father for His finding an unexpected way for Hans to not lose his income while he takes time to heal rather than return to work and for his having time to attend his first Christian conference and begin the journey in earnest! 

Barbara (sister-in-law) will finally start work this Monday with a wonderful company (she has waited five years to find a job). 

Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally. 

 PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:   Fion's father is now in a hospice.  Pray for the family and for his carers as he prepares to go home to the Lord. 

Baby Saige is improving.  Please pray for all those who care for her that the Lord comforts all as this little life unfolds."

Please pray for those who care for Deepak's wife who was "diagnosed with a level-2 breast cancer.  Op done in December to remove cancer now going for 2nd lot of chemo!" 

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 return to the ministry.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Pray for Raven as she regains her strength from the cancer treatments.  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%. 

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:   Sergio walked out of his abusive work environment yesterday and needs our prayers now more than ever - he lives in Mexico City.  Paul NS has had such an adventure trying to find a role again.  Please keep him in your prayers that he does not give up.   

 For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs

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!

Elaine and Jim in Hong Kong have begun a new ministry.  Please pray the Father keeps guiding them in their work. 

Isaias & Judith who head the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines, need strength and encouragement as they work with other ministers recovering and serving after one of the world's worst typhoons in history.  Their financial needs are so great please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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 Lyle and their 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.  

* "Trusting God" is copyright protected since 1988 by Jerry Bridges.  All rights are reserved, including translations.  The ISBN is 08910-91742.  I quote carefully from his book.

What's Wrong With Providence?

"Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind and said, 'Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?  Now gird up your loins like a man.  And I will ask you, and you instruct Me!

"'Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?  Tell Me, if you have understanding.  Who set its measurements, since you know?  Or who stretched the line on it? 

"...'Have you ever in your life commanded the morning, and caused the dawn to know its place; that it might take hold of the ends of the earth, and the wicked be shaken out of it?

"...'Who prepares for the raven its nourishment, when its young cry to God, and wander about without food?'" Job 38:1-5, 12-13, 41

"There are two things wrong, however, with that way in which we refer to the providence of God.  For one, we almost always use the expression 'the providence of God' in connection with apparently 'good' events...and we either unconsciously or deliberately imply that God intervenes at specific points in our lives but is largely only an interested spectator most of the time.

" -- we reduce God's control over our lives to a stop-and-go, in-and-out proposition.  Our unconscious attitude is that the rest of the time we are the 'master of our fates' or conversely the victims of unhappy circumstances or uncaring people that cross our paths."*

He is not limited and He IS interested in everything and each heart -- even those who do not know Him yet!  Especially them!

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:  

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:   Pray for Jen as she recovers from a terrible flu.  Pray for Bon who lives in the floor-ravaged Cornwall UK.  Pray for Emily that she can find a way to extend her Visa to Australia.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Pray for Adrian who has had a bit of respite from his growing pain from this cancer.  Please pray for wisdom for his doctors.  He has suffered so and yet still praises our Father! 

Thanks that the Lord held Deb's hand during her court appearance and that what eventuates, gives her heart peace.

Thanks to the Father for the blessing to Carla and Paul yesterday!  Thank our Father for His finding an unexpected way for Hans to not lose his income while he takes time to heal rather than return to work and for his having time to attend his first Christian conference and begin the journey in earnest! 

Barbara (sister-in-law) will finally start work this Monday with a wonderful company (she has waited five years to find a job). 

Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally. 

 PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:   Fion's father is now in a hospice.  Pray for the family and for his carers as he prepares to go home to the Lord. 

Baby Saige is improving.  Please pray for all those who care for her that the Lord comforts all as this little life unfolds."

Please pray for those who care for Deepak's wife who was "diagnosed with a level-2 breast cancer.  Op done in December to remove cancer now going for 2nd lot of chemo!" 

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 return to the ministry.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Pray for Raven as she regains her strength from the cancer treatments.  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%. 

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:   Sergio walked out of his abusive work environment yesterday and needs our prayers now more than ever - he lives in Mexico City.  Paul NS has had such an adventure trying to find a role again.  Please keep him in your prayers that he does not give up.   

 For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs

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!

Elaine and Jim in Hong Kong have begun a new ministry.  Please pray the Father keeps guiding them in their work. 

Isaias & Judith who head the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines, need strength and encouragement as they work with other ministers recovering and serving after one of the world's worst typhoons in history.  Their financial needs are so great please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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 Lyle and their 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.  

* "Trusting God" is copyright protected since 1988 by Jerry Bridges.  All rights are reserved, including translations.  The ISBN is 08910-91742.  I quote carefully from his book.

Loved & Hidden

"Then Moses said, 'I pray Thee show me Thy glory!'  And He said, 'I Myself will make all My goodness pass before you, and will proclaim the name of the Lord before you; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show compassion on whom I will show compassion.' 

"But He said, 'You cannot see My face, for no man can see Me and live!'  Then the Lord said, 'Behold, there is a place by Me, and you shall stand there on the rock; and it will come about, while My glory is passing by, that I will put you in the cleft of the rock and cover you with My hand until I have passed by.

"''Then I will take My hand away and you shall see My back, but My face shall not be seen.'" Exodus 33:18-23

"Christians as well as nonChristians frequently speak of misfortune and accidents, of circumstances beyond our (and presumably God's) control, of things just happening by chance.  Down through the centuries, sickness, suffering, and sorrow have always raised questions about God's control and care of His creation.

"The implicit assumption in the minds of many is:  If God is both powerful and good, why is there so much suffering, so much pain, so much heartache in the world?  God is either good and not all powerful, or He is powerful and not all good.  You can't have it both ways."*

How amazing to KNOW that He loves you and me so much that He will hide us in the cleft of a rock (that He made) as all hell breaks loose around us... and He will cover us with His hand to shelter us from the raging storms and fill our hearts with the unexplainable peace that only comes from Him.

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:  

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:   Pray for Jen as she recovers from a terrible flu.  Pray for Bon who lives in the floor-ravaged Cornwall UK.  Pray for Emily that she can find a way to extend her Visa to Australia.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Pray for Adrian who has had a bit of respite from his growing pain from this cancer.  Please pray for wisdom for his doctors.  He has suffered so and yet still praises our Father! 

Thanks that the Lord held Deb's hand during her court appearance and that what eventuates, gives her heart peace.

Thanks to the Father for the blessing to Carla and Paul yesterday!  Thank our Father for His finding an unexpected way for Hans to not lose his income while he takes time to heal rather than return to work and for his having time to attend his first Christian conference and begin the journey in earnest! 

Barbara (sister-in-law) will finally start work this Monday with a wonderful company (she has waited five years to find a job). 

Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally. 

 PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:   Fion's father is now in a hospice.  Pray for the family and for his carers as he prepares to go home to the Lord. 

Baby Saige is improving.  Please pray for all those who care for her that the Lord comforts all as this little life unfolds."

Please pray for those who care for Deepak's wife who was "diagnosed with a level-2 breast cancer.  Op done in December to remove cancer now going for 2nd lot of chemo!" 

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 return to the ministry.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Pray for Raven as she regains her strength from the cancer treatments.  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%. 

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:   Sergio walked out of his abusive work environment yesterday and needs our prayers now more than ever - he lives in Mexico City.  Paul NS has had such an adventure trying to find a role again.  Please keep him in your prayers that he does not give up.   

 For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs

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!

Elaine and Jim in Hong Kong have begun a new ministry.  Please pray the Father keeps guiding them in their work. 

Isaias & Judith who head the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines, need strength and encouragement as they work with other ministers recovering and serving after one of the world's worst typhoons in history.  Their financial needs are so great please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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 Lyle and their 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.  

* "Trusting God" is copyright protected since 1988 by Jerry Bridges.  All rights are reserved, including translations.  The ISBN is 08910-91742.  I quote carefully from his book.

Powerful or Good?

"Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.  

I charge you in the presence of God who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who testified the good confession before Pontius Pilate, that you keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which He will bring about at the proper time --

"He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who ALONE posses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light; whom no man has seen or can see.  To Him be honour and eternal dominion!  Amen." I Timothy 6:12-16

"In 1981 a widely acclaimed best-selling book swept the nation.  In literary reviews Rabbi Harold Kushner's book, 'When Ban Things Happen to Good People, was described as touching, heart-warming, wise and compassionate, a book all humanity needs.....

"Rabbi Kushner concludes that the author of the book of Job 'Forced to choose between a good God who is not totally powerful, or a powerful God who is not totally good...chooses to believe in God's goodness.'"*

When things don't go the way we imagine they should we search for a reason, when sometimes the reason is higher than the sky...yet, we CAN trust in the intimate and personal care of our Saviour!

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:  

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:   Pray for Jen as she recovers from a terrible flu.  Pray for Bon who lives in the floor-ravaged Cornwall UK.  Pray for Emily that she can find a way to extend her Visa to Australia.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Pray for Adrian who has had a bit of respite from his growing pain from this cancer.  Please pray for wisdom for his doctors.  He has suffered so and yet still praises our Father! 

Thanks that the Lord held Deb's hand during her court appearance and that what eventuates, gives her heart peace.

Thanks to the Father for the blessing to Carla and Paul yesterday!  Thank our Father for His finding an unexpected way for Hans to not lose his income while he takes time to heal rather than return to work and for his having time to attend his first Christian conference and begin the journey in earnest! 

Barbara (sister-in-law) will finally start work this Monday with a wonderful company (she has waited five years to find a job). 

Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally. 

 PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:   Fion's father is now in a hospice.  Pray for the family and for his carers as he prepares to go home to the Lord. 

Baby Saige is improving.  Please pray for all those who care for her that the Lord comforts all as this little life unfolds."

Please pray for those who care for Deepak's wife who was "diagnosed with a level-2 breast cancer.  Op done in December to remove cancer now going for 2nd lot of chemo!" 

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 return to the ministry.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Pray for Raven as she regains her strength from the cancer treatments.  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%. 

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:   Sergio walked out of his abusive work environment yesterday and needs our prayers now more than ever - he lives in Mexico City.  Paul NS has had such an adventure trying to find a role again.  Please keep him in your prayers that he does not give up.   

 For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs

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!

Elaine and Jim in Hong Kong have begun a new ministry.  Please pray the Father keeps guiding them in their work. 

Isaias & Judith who head the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines, need strength and encouragement as they work with other ministers recovering and serving after one of the world's worst typhoons in history.  Their financial needs are so great please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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 Lyle and their 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.  

* "Trusting God" is copyright protected since 1988 by Jerry Bridges.  All rights are reserved, including translations.  The ISBN is 08910-91742.  I quote carefully from his book.

It Figures...

"But the Lord abides forever; He has established His throne for judgment, and He will judge the world in righteousness; He will execute judgment for the peoples with equity. 

"The Lord also will be a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble, and those who KNOW Thy name will put their trust in Thee; For Thou, O Lord, has not forsaken those who seek Thee." Psalm 9:7-10

"In order to trust God we must KNOW Him in an intimate, personal way...As you read and study the following chapters and as you relate what you are learning about God to your own situations, pray that the Holy Spirit of God will enable you to get beyond the facts about God so that you will come to know Him better, and so be able to trust Him more completely."*

It figures that there IS a reason for all this!  Let's glorify Him as we watch His miracles unfold around us!

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

PS: ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  Please send updates!  For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action!

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:   Pray for Jen as she recovers from a terrible flu.  Pray for Bon who lives in the floor-ravaged Conwall UK.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Pray for Adrian who has had a bit of respite from his growing pain from this cancer.  Please pray for wisdom for his doctors.  He has suffered so and yet still praises our Father! 

Thanks that the Lord held Deb's hand during her court appearance and that what eventuates, gives her heart peace.

Thanks to the Father for the blessing to Carla and Paul yesterday!  Thank our Father for His finding an unexpected way for Hans to not lose his income while he takes time to heal rather than return to work and for his having time to attend his first Christian conference and begin the journey in earnest! 

Barbara (sister-in-law) will finally start work this Monday with a wonderful company (she has waited five years to find a job). 

Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally. 

 PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:   Fion's father is now in a hospice.  Pray for the family and for his carers as he prepares to go home to the Lord. 

Baby Saige is improving.  Please pray for all those who care for her that the Lord comforts all as this little life unfolds."

Please pray for those who care for Deepak's wife who was "diagnosed with a level-2 breast cancer.  Op done in December to remove cancer now going for 2nd lot of chemo!" 

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 return to the ministry.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Pray for Raven as she regains her strength from the cancer treatments.  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%. 

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:   Sergio walked out of his abusive work environment yesterday and needs our prayers now more than ever - he lives in Mexico City.  Paul NS has had such an adventure trying to find a role again.  Please keep him in your prayers that he does not give up.   

 For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs

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!

Elaine and Jim in Hong Kong have begun a new ministry.  Please pray the Father keeps guiding them in their work. 

Isaias & Judith who head the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines, need strength and encouragement as they work with other ministers recovering and serving after one of the world's worst typhoons in history.  Their financial needs are so great please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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 Lyle and their 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.  

* "Trusting God" is copyright protected since 1988 by Jerry Bridges.  All rights are reserved, including translations.  The ISBN is 08910-91742.  I quote carefully from his book.

He's here right now!

"For God, who said, 'Light shall shine out of darkness,' is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 

"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body." II Corinthians 4:6-10

"Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

"The primary purpose [of the book, Trusting God] is for us to become so convinced of these truths that we appropriate them in our daily circumstances; that we learn to trust God in the midst of our pain, whatever form it may take. 

"It doesn't matter whether our pain is trivial or traumatic, temporary or interminable.  Regardless of the nature of the circumstances, we must learn to trust God if we would glorify God in them."*

The times we are hurting or afraid or feeling abandoned are so awful sometimes that we can get our eyes off the Lord and onto the problem that is causing us pain.  Fixing our eyes on Jesus - falling into His arms of love gives us the strength to get through the hard times.  Nothing works better!  Actually, nothing else works!

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:  

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:   Pray for Deb who appeared in court last week - that the outcome was glorifying for her heavenly Father and that her heart is finally at ease!

Baby Saige is improving.  Please pray she is able to take a thickened formula easily and that her oxygen continues to be in a good range and she will get to come home soon.  From her grandmother:  "Thank you my dear prayer warriors.  We couldn't do this without knowing how everyone is praying for Saige and her family."

Pray for Deepak's wife who was "diagnosed with breast cancer. A level 2 .  Op done in December to remove cancer now going for 2nd lot of chemo!  All good so far but prayers good."  Pray for Adrian who is struggling badly and in much pain.  Please pray for wisdom for his doctors.  He has suffered so!

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Thanks to the Father for the blessing to Carla and Paul yesterday!  Thank our Father for His finding an unexpected way for Hans to not lose his income while he takes time to heal rather than return to work and for his having time to attend his first Christian conference. 

Barbara (sister-in-law) will finally start work this Monday with a wonderful company (she has waited five years to find a job). 

Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally. 

 PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:   Fion's father is now in a hospice.  Pray for the family and for his carers as he prepares to go home to the Lord. 

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 return to the ministry.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Pray for Raven as she regains her strength from the cancer treatments.  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%. 

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:   Sergio walked out of his abusive work environment yesterday and needs our prayers now more than ever - he lives in Mexico City.  Paul NS has had such an adventure trying to find a role again.  Please keep him in your prayers that he does not give up.   

 For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs

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!

Elaine and Jim in Hong Kong have begun a new ministry.  Please pray the Father keeps guiding them in their work. 

Isaias & Judith who head the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines, need strength and encouragement as they work with other ministers recovering and serving after one of the world's worst typhoons in history.  Their financial needs are so great please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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 Lyle and their 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.  

* "Trusting God" is copyright protected since 1988 by Jerry Bridges.  All rights are reserved, including translations.  The ISBN is 08910-91742.  I quote carefully from his book.

God it? Get It!

"To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ, and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God, who created all things, in order that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places. 

"This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him." Ephesians 3:8-10

"For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominations or rulers or authorities -- all things have been created by Him and for Him." Colossians 1:16

"Paul acknowledged what we must acknowledge if we are to trust God.  God's plan and His ways of working out His plan are frequently beyond our ability to fathom and understand.  We must learn to trust when we don't understand."*

How much easier it is to question rather than trust when we do not understand!  But His love remains constant regardless where our feelings wander!

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:  

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:   Pray for Deb who appeared in court last week - that the outcome was glorifying for her heavenly Father and that her heart is finally at ease!

Baby Saige is improving.  Please pray she is able to take a thickened formula easily and that her oxygen continues to be in a good range and she will get to come home soon.  From her grandmother:  "Thank you my dear prayer warriors.  We couldn't do this without knowing how everyone is praying for Saige and her family."

Pray for Deepak's wife who was "diagnosed with breast cancer. A level 2 .  Op done in December to remove cancer now going for 2nd lot of chemo!  All good so far but prayers good."  Pray for Adrian who is struggling badly and in much pain.  Please pray for wisdom for his doctors.  He has suffered so!

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Thanks to the Father for the blessing to Carla and Paul yesterday!  Thank our Father for His finding an unexpected way for Hans to not lose his income while he takes time to heal rather than return to work and for his having time to attend his first Christian conference. 

Barbara (sister-in-law) will finally start work this Monday with a wonderful company (she has waited five years to find a job). 

Carlton (painful bone infections) is feeling a bit better finally. 

 PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:   Fion's father is now in a hospice.  Pray for the family and for his carers as he prepares to go home to the Lord. 

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 return to the ministry.  For Nancy who is growing stronger and for Fred as he cares for her. 

Pray for Raven as she regains her strength from the cancer treatments.  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%. 

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:   Sergio walked out of his abusive work environment yesterday and needs our prayers now more than ever - he lives in Mexico City.  Paul NS has had such an adventure trying to find a role again.  Please keep him in your prayers that he does not give up.   

 For PJ that he may find projects to fill his needs

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!

Elaine and Jim in Hong Kong have begun a new ministry.  Please pray the Father keeps guiding them in their work. 

Isaias & Judith who head the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines, need strength and encouragement as they work with other ministers recovering and serving after one of the world's worst typhoons in history.  Their financial needs are so great please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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 Lyle and their 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.  

* "Trusting God" is copyright protected since 1988 by Jerry Bridges.  All rights are reserved, including translations.  The ISBN is 08910-91742.  I quote carefully from his book.