His Glory & our good

"Unless the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain who built it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman keeps awake in vain. 

"It is vain for you to rise up early, to retire late, to eat the bread of painful labours for He gives to His beloved even in his sleep." Psalm 127:1-2

"Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for my soul takes refuge in Thee; and in the shadow of Thy wings I will take refuge, until destruction passes by. 

"I will cry to God Most High, to God who accomplishes all things for me.  He will send from heaven and save me; He reproaches him who tramples upon me.   God will send forth His lovingkindness and His truth." Psalm 57:2

"All of our plans, all of our efforts, and all of our prudence is of no avail unless God prospers those means.  In a sense, the verse sums up all of our responsibilities in life. -- Whether it be in the physical, the mental, or the spiritual, we should always be building and watching. -- The obvious meaning is that in every respect we are dependent upon God to enable us and prosper our efforts."*

Ambition, energy, enthusiasm, determination, initiative all have a place in our lives, yet only God can bring the increase not because our efforts are in vain, but because, in wanting His will in our lives, we must trust Him to know what is the absolute best for His glory and our good.

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

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:  Isaias has written:  "I would like to solicit your prayers in behalf of my Dad, 84 years old, who is ailing and suffering from pain.  He stays at home waiting for God's intervention. Please pray with us that God will take him home without suffering terribly. Our only sister Tita is the one nursing him with some assistance from my brothers."

No updates about Baby Saige's surgery which happened THIS MONDAY, JUNE 30th at 8:00AM (EST)!  I shared her picture is on the blog site if you missed it in your mail.

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration.  He and his daughter Heidi are moving this week and the stress is mounting for David.  Pray the Lord protects him during this time of change and adjustment.  I hope to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.    

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Hans was baptised and it was a most delightful and thank-filled ceremony of the state of his heart today!  Pray he will find a good job soon.

The Lord has just provided Adrian with a week of peace, to relax without distractions.  Pray the Lord quiets his heart, gives him insight, peace and warmer weather.  Give his doctors wisdom and compassion.

Jen has found a new puppy and is delighted.  Thank you so much for your prayers for this amazing woman! 

Sergio has found a wonderful new role (lives in Mexico City and thanks everyone for praying for him.

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%." 

Scott is doing better, taking baby steps but still needs lots of prayers for healing, and ability to think clearly,  he also needs prayers to stay  focused on God and not be so independent.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for my brother, Tim, that his COPD (cardio-pulmonary artery disease) is manageable for him and that he will have the patience and wisdom to cope with the limitations. 

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. 

Please pray for Maedhros, who is having a serious operation soon.  Pray for BG that his blinding headaches will finally stop.

Please pray for Chester as he continues to struggle through a host of medical challenges and poor care.  Give him energy, strength and resolve.  Bettina needs our prayers to give her strength and wisdom. 

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

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Paul NS continues to struggle in finding work.  He grows weary and discouraged.  Pray God will grant him patience and hope and that the doctor he visited yesterday will give him peace of mind.

Please pray for Michael, a man who is humble and without a home or a job who needs a chance to get his life back to normal. 

Deepak needs prayer that his work efforts begin to bear fruit as he works through the grief of his father passing.  He needs strength and resolve to make wise decisions.

Justin B and his father in India need prayer that Justin will find work in his field of BPO and voice in the Lord's perfect time. 

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 need our continued prayers for protection and good health.  They lead the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines.  The financial needs are so great, please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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.  

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  Pray for revival in the USA to continue.   Pray for Birgit who is in Germany.  Please pray for the many individuals in Singapore, China and India.  Just recently the WeakDay Devotion blog is being read by many people there!  God is mysterious!  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 and respectfully from his wonderful book.

Putting Feet to Prayers

"The sons of Reuben and the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh, consisting of valiant men, men who bore shield and sword and shot with bow, and were skilful in battle, were 44,760, who went to war.  And they made war against the Hagrites, Jetur, Naphish, and Nodab. 

"And they were helped against them, and the Hagrites and all who were with them were given into their hand; for they cried out to God in battle, and He was entreated for them, because they trusted in Him." I Chronicles 5:18-20

"Prayer is the acknowledgement of God's sovereignty and of our dependence upon Him to act on our behalf.  Prudence is the acknowledgement of our responsibility to use all legitimate means."*

You are not to just sit back and wait on the Lord to magically and powerfully fix everything in your life.  He has given you resources to take action in your own strength, trusting the almighty Father to work His will around your efforts.  

He gave you a mind so you could understand and not to let it turn to mush.  Putting feet to your prayers means that sitting in your comfortable armchair praying for someone to come help your next-door neighbour may not be what the Father had in mind...

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

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:   NEWS FLASH  Baby Saige is having surgery THIS MONDAY, JUNE 30th at 8:00AM (EST)!  I shared her picture is on the blog site if you missed it in your mail.

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:  David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration.  He and his daughter Heidi are moving this week and the stress is mounting for David.  Pray the Lord protects him during this time of change and adjustment.  I hope to go home to see him before he can no longer see me.    

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Hans was baptised and it was a most delightful and thank-filled ceremony of the state of his heart today!  Pray he will find a good job soon.

The Lord has just provided Adrian with a week of peace, to relax without distractions.  Pray the Lord quiets his heart, gives him insight, peace and warmer weather.  Give his doctors wisdom and compassion.

Jen has found a new puppy and is delighted.  Thank you so much for your prayers for this amazing woman! 

Sergio has found a wonderful new role (lives in Mexico City and thanks everyone for praying for him.

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%." 

Scott is doing better, taking baby steps but still needs lots of prayers for healing, and ability to think clearly,  he also needs prayers to stay  focused on God and not be so independent.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for my brother, Tim, that his COPD (cardio-pulmonary artery disease) is manageable for him and that he will have the patience and wisdom to cope with the limitations. 

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. 

Please pray for Maedhros, who is having a serious operation soon.  Pray for BG that his blinding headaches will finally stop.

Please pray for Chester as he continues to struggle through a host of medical challenges and poor care.  Give him energy, strength and resolve.  Bettina needs our prayers to give her strength and wisdom. 

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

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Paul NS continues to struggle in finding work.  He grows weary and discouraged.  Pray God will grant him patience and hope and that the doctor he visited yesterday will give him peace of mind.

Please pray for Michael, a man who is humble and without a home or a job who needs a chance to get his life back to normal. 

Deepak needs prayer that his work efforts begin to bear fruit as he works through the grief of his father passing.  He needs strength and resolve to make wise decisions.

Justin B and his father in India need prayer that Justin will find work in his field of BPO and voice in the Lord's perfect time. 

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 need our continued prayers for protection and good health.  They lead the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines.  The financial needs are so great, please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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.  

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  Pray for revival in the USA to continue.   Pray for Birgit who is in Germany.  Please pray for the many individuals in Singapore, China and India.  Just recently the WeakDay Devotion blog is being read by many people there!  God is mysterious!  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 and respectfully from his wonderful book.

Wisdom from Counsel

"Without consultation, plans are frustrated, but with many counsellors, they succeed.  A man has joy in an apt answer, and how delightful is a timely word!" Proverbs 15:22-23

"The mind of man plans his ways, but the Lord directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9

"All the wise counsel in the world cannot enable our plans to succeed contrary to the sovereign will of God.  But God uses the wise counsel of others to bring our plans into line with His sovereign will."*

Often we push the Lord off the throne of our lives and feel it is time WE make decisions for ourselves, especially when something is particularly important to us. 

Others may counsel us to be cautious, yet we persist, thinking it's time to take matters into our own hands...wouldn't that be a good idea?  God can't care about EVERYTHING, now CAN He? 

God's plans will not be frustrated by our will and our hard work!  And His love will not be thwarted by our determination and stubbornness.

"Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.  It is better to be a humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. 

"He who gives attention to the Word shall find good, and blesses is he who trusts in the Lord.  The wise in heart will be called discerning, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness." Proverbs 16:18-21

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

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:   Baby Saige - her heart cath went very well on 23 June.  Everything they were checking is exactly where it is supposed to be!  God gave her doctor the amazing ability to perform such delicate surgery.  NEWS FLASH  Saige is having surgery THIS MONDAY, JUNE 30th at 8:00!  I shared her picture is on the blog site if you missed it in your mail.

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:  Hans will be baptised on the 29th and would appreciate your prayers as he dedicates his life to the Lord in this outward demonstration of his changed heart.  He also needs to find work.  The role he was so hoping for has not come through. 

Please pray for Michael, a man who is humble and without a home or a job who needs a chance to get his life back to normal. 

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  The Lord has just provided Adrian with a week of peace, to relax without distractions.  Pray the Lord quiets his heart and gives him insight and peace.  Give his doctors wisdom and compassion.

Jen has found a new puppy and is delighted.  Thank you so much for your prayers for this amazing woman! 

Sergio has found a wonderful new role (lives in Mexico City and thanks everyone for praying for him.

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%." 

Scott is doing better, taking baby steps but still needs lots of prayers for healing, and ability to think clearly,  he also needs prayers to stay  focused on God and not be so independent.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for my brother, Tim, that his COPD (cardio-pulmonary artery disease) is manageable for him and that he will have the patience and wisdom to cope with the limitations. 

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. 

Please pray for Maedhros, who is having a serious operation soon.  Pray for BG that his blinding headaches will finally stop.

Please pray for Chester as he continues to struggle through a host of medical challenges and poor care.  Give him energy, strength and resolve.  Bettina needs our prayers to give her strength and wisdom. 

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

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Paul NS continues to struggle in finding work.  He grows weary and discouraged.  Pray God will grant him patience and hope and that the doctor he visited yesterday will give him peace of mind.

Deepak needs prayer that his work efforts begin to bear fruit as he works through the grief of his father passing.  He needs strength and resolve to make wise decisions.

Justin B and his father in India need prayer that Justin will find work in his field of BPO and voice in the Lord's perfect time. 

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 need our continued prayers for protection and good health.  They lead the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines.  The financial needs are so great, please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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.  

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  Pray for revival in the USA to continue.   Pray for Birgit who is in Germany.  Please pray for the many individuals in Singapore, China and India.  Just recently the WeakDay Devotion blog is being read by many people there!  God is mysterious!  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 and respectfully from his wonderful book.

Circumstances?

"Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for my soul takes refuge in Thee; and in the shadow of Thy wings I will take refuge, until destruction passes by. 

"I will cry to God Most High, to God who accomplishes all things for me.  He will send from heaven and save me; He reproaches him who tramples upon me, God will send forth His lovingkindness and His truth." Psalm 57:2

"We must not only pray for His overruling providence in our lives as David did, but we must also pray for wisdom to rightly understand our circumstances and use the means He has given us."*

Focusing on the circumstances, when you think you are under them brings little joy, focus instead on your Heavenly Father who is all knowing and all powerful and all loving!

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

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:   Baby Saige - her heart cath went very well on 23 June.  Everything they were checking is exactly where it is supposed to be!  God gave her doctor the amazing ability to perform such delicate surgery.  NEWS FLASH  Saige is having surgery THIS MONDAY, JUNE 30th at 8:00!  I shared her picture is on the blog site if you missed it in your mail.

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:  Hans will be baptised on the 29th and would appreciate your prayers as he dedicated his life to the Lord in this outward demonstration of his changed heart.  He also needs to find work.  The role he was so hoping for has not come through. 

Please pray for Michael, a man who is humble and without a home or a job who needs a chance to get his life back to normal. 

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  The Lord has just provided Adrian with a week of peace to relax without distractions.  Pray the Lord quiets his heart and gives him insight and peace.  Give his doctors wisdom and compassion.

Jen has found a new puppy and is delighted.  Thank you so much for your prayers for this amazing woman! 

Sergio has found a wonderful new role (lives in Mexico City and thanks everyone for praying for him.

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%." 

Scott is doing better, taking baby steps but still needs lots of prayers for healing, and ability to think clearly,  he also needs prayers to stay  focused on God and not be so independent.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for my brother, Tim, that his COPD (cardio-pulmonary artery disease) is manageable for him and that he will have the patience and wisdom to cope with the limitations. 

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. 

Please pray for Maedhros, who is having a serious operation soon.  Pray for BG that his blinding headaches will finally stop.

Please pray for Chester as he continues to struggle through a host of medical challenges and poor care.  Give him energy, strength and resolve.  Bettina needs our prayers to give her strength and wisdom. 

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

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Paul NS continues to struggle in finding work.  He grows weary and discouraged.  Pray God will grant him patience and hope and that the doctor he visited yesterday will give him peace of mind.

Deepak needs prayer that his work efforts begin to bear fruit as he works through the grief of his father passing.  He needs strength and resolve to make wise decisions.

Justin B and his father in India need prayer that Justin will find work in his field of BPO and voice in the Lord's perfect time. 

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 need our continued prayers for protection and good health.  They lead the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines.  The financial needs are so great, please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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.  

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  Pray for revival in the USA to continue.   Pray for Birgit who is in Germany.  Please pray for the many individuals in Singapore, China and India.  Just recently the WeakDay Devotion blog is being read by many people there!  God is mysterious!  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 and respectfully from his wonderful book.

Tug and Act

"Now it came about when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites heard that the repair of the walls of Jerusalem went on, and that the breaches began to be closed, they were very angry.  And all of them conspired together to come and fight against Jerusalem and to cause a disturbance in it.  But we prayed to our God, and because of them we set up a guard against them day and night.

"And it came about from that day on, that half of my servants carried on the work while half of them held the spears, the shields, the bows, and the breastplates; and the captains were behind the whole house of Judah.  Those who were rebuilding the wall and those who carried burdens took their load with one hand during the work, and the other holding a weapon. 

"As for the builders, each wore his sword girded at his side as he built, while the trumpeter stood near me.  And I said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, 'The work is great and extensive, and we are separated on the wall far from one another.  At whatever place you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us here.  Our God will fight for us.'" Nehemiah 4:7-8, 16-20

"In our circumstances today, we do not know what God's sovereign purpose is in a specific situation.  We should be even more aware not to use God's sovereignty as an excuse to shirk the duties that He has commanded in the Scriptures.  God usually works through means, and He intends that we use the means He has placed at our disposal."*

God expects us to use the resources, means and creativity to deal with our lives and the circumstances and people around us...He does not expect us to just stand there and wait.  Someone once shared the thought that prayer is the thin thread of love that moves the hands of God.  We are responsible to give that thread a tug with our prayers. 

(And speaking of prayers, PLEASE take time today to review the prayers below and send any updates or answers to prayer for those who are so faithful each day in tugging.)

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

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:   Baby Saige - her heart cath went very well on 23 June.  Everything they were checking is exactly where it is supposed to be!  God gave her doctor the amazing ability to perform such delicate surgery.  NEWS FLASH  Saige is having surgery THIS MONDAY, JUNE 30th at 8:00!  I shared her picture is on the blog site if you missed it in your mail.

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:  Hans will be baptised on the 29th and would appreciate your prayers as he dedicated his life to the Lord in this outward demonstration of his changed heart.  He also needs to find work.  Please pray the role he recently applied for will be the Lord's will for him.

Please pray for Michael, a man who is humble and without a home or a job who needs a chance to get his life back to normal. 

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Jen has found a new puppy and is delighted.  Thank you so much for your prayers for this amazing woman! 

Sergio has found a wonderful new role (lives in Mexico City and thanks everyone for praying for him.

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%." 

Scott is doing better, taking baby steps but still needs lots of prayers for healing, and ability to think clearly,  he also needs prayers to stay  focused on God and not be so independent.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for my brother, Tim, that his COPD (cardio-pulmonary artery disease) is manageable for him and that he will have the patience and wisdom to cope with the limitations. 

David R losing his eyesight due to macular degeneration.  I hope to go home to see him before he can no longer see me. 

Adrian's pain is mounting and his ability to cope with changes in meds is affecting him physically (blood pressure still out of control) and emotionally.  Pray the Lord quiets his heart and gives him strength to endure.  Give his doctors insight and compassion.  Pray those around him who are supporting him have unmatched patience.

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. 

Please pray for Maedhros, who is having a serious operation soon.  Pray for BG that his blinding headaches will finally stop.

Please pray for Chester as he continues to struggle through a host of medical challenges and poor care.  Give him energy, strength and resolve.  Bettina needs our prayers to give her strength and wisdom. 

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

ONGOING JOB RELATED: Paul NS continues to struggle in finding work.  He grows weary and discouraged.  Pray God will grant him patience and hope.

Deepak needs prayer that his work efforts begin to bear fruit as he works through the grief of his father passing.  He needs strength and resolve to make wise decisions.

Justin B and his father in India need prayer that Justin will find work in his field of BPO and voice in the Lord's perfect time. 

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 need our continued prayers for protection and good health.  They lead the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines.  The financial needs are so great, please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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.  

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  Pray for revival in the USA to continue.   Pray for Birgit who is in Germany.  Please pray for the many individuals in Singapore, China and India.  Just recently the WeakDay Devotion blog is being read by many people there!  God is mysterious!  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 and respectfully from his wonderful book.

Praying AND Doing

"But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed.  

"'Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me and said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul.  You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.' 

"'So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me.  Nevertheless, we must run around on some island.'" Acts 27:22-26

Paul "took prudent action to bring about what God by divine revelation had already promised would certainly come to pass.  He did not confuse God's sovereignty with his responsibility to act prudently."*

In other words, Paul prayed but he was happy he knew how to swim and would swim and struggle with the others to ensure that all were safe.  Praying, saying and doing are important.  

We pray believing.  We share with others to encourage them and we take action, rather than just floating around with an expectation that God will do all the work!

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

PLEASE NOTE THE PRAYER UPDATES! AND THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO ARE FAITHFUL TO PRAY AND TO KEEP ME UPDATED ON GOD'S PROGRESS!  And 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:   Adrian's pain is mounting and his ability to cope with changes in meds is affecting him physically (blood pressure still out of control) and emotionally (he is losing his patience, which is no wonder).  Pray the Lord quiets his heart and gives him strength to endure.  Give his doctors insight and compassion.  Pray those around him who are supporting him unmatched patience.

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:  Baby Saige had a heart cauterization 23 June at 9:00 a.m. at Akron Children's Hospital.  Her grandmother writes:  "Saige is doing so well and is such a happy little baby.  She even cut her first tooth this week. She is slowly gaining weight.  She is like every other little 5 1/2 month old and we have great joy watching her."  I shared her picture is on the blog site if you missed it in your mail.

Paul NS continues to struggle in finding work.  He grows weary and discouraged.  Pray God will grant him patience and hope.

Hans will be baptised on the 29th and would appreciate your prayers as he dedicated his life to the Lord in this outward demonstration of his changed heart.  He also needs to find work.  Please pray the role he recently applied for will be the Lord's will for him.

Jen has lost her two companion dogs she has loved for over 15 years -- she is heartbroken.  Please pray for her.  Please pray for Maedhros, who is having a serious operation soon.  Please pray for Michael, a man who is humble and without a home or a job who needs a chance to get his life back to normal.  Pray for BG that his blinding headaches will finally stop.

Please pray for Chester as he continues to struggle through a host of medical challenges and poor care.  Give him energy, strength and resolve.  Bettina needs our prayers to give her strength and wisdom. 

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Elina has had two wonderful job interviews and thanks everyone for their prayers so far for her as she searches for work. 

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for my brother, Tim, that his COPD (cardio-pulmonary artery disease) is manageable for him and that he will have the patience and wisdom to cope with the limitations. 

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%. 

Prayer update......Scott is doing a little better, he is taking baby steps but he still needs lots of prayers for healing, and ability to think clearly,  he also needs prayers to focus on God which he is NOT doing right now.  He thinks he can do everything himself.

ONGOING JOB RELATED:   Sergio seeking new employment - is in Mexico City

Deepak needs prayer that his work efforts begin to bear fruit as he works through the grief of his father passing.  He needs strength and resolve to make wise decisions.

Justin B and his father in India need prayer that Justin will find work in his field of BPO and voice in the Lord's perfect time. 

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 need our continued prayers for protection and good health.  They lead the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines.  The financial needs are so great, please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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.  

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  Pray for revival in the USA to continue.   Pray for Birgit who is in Germany.  Please pray for the many individuals in Singapore, China and India.  Just recently the WeakDay Devotion blog is being read by many people there!  God is mysterious!  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 and respectfully from his wonderful book.

Prudence & Prayer

"But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'

"And Samuel said to Jesse, 'Are these all the children?'  And he said, 'There remains yet the youngest, and behold, he is tending the sheep.'  Then Samuel said to Jesse, 'Send and bring him; for we will not sit down until he comes here.'

"So he sent and brought him in.  Now he was ruddy, with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance.  And the Lord said, 'Arise, anoint him; for this is he.'

"Then Samuel too the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward.  And Samuel arose and went to Ramah."I Samuel 16:7-13

"Just as God's sovereignty does not set aside our responsibility to pray, it also does not negate our responsibility to act prudently.  To act prudently, in this context, means to use all legitimate, biblical means at our disposal to avoid harm to ourselves or others and to bring about what we believe to be the right course of events."*

Jesse had his ideas of what was best for God and purposed to keep his youngest son from Samuel, but God had plans for this brave, young man and this was revealed because Samuel purposed to leave the choice in the hands of the Father, yet also take action and serve his duty to the search for David, who would one day be "beloved of God".

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

PLEASE NOTE THE PRAYER UPDATES! AND THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO ARE FAITHFUL TO PRAY AND TO KEEP ME UPDATED ON GOD'S PROGRESS!  And 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:   Adrian's pain is mounting and his ability to cope with the changes in his meds has affected him emotionally as well as his blood pressure.  Please pray the Lord quiets his heart and gives him strength to endure whatever steps he now walks.  Give his doctors insight and sensitivity and those around him who are supporting him unmatched patience.

NEW PRAYER REQUEST:  Baby Saige is going to have a heart cauterization on Monday, June 23rd at 9:00 a.m. at Akron Children's Hospital.  Her grandmother writes:  "Our family would appreciate your prayers.  Michael and Jobeth will then meet with her heart surgeons on Wednesday to determine when they will be doing open heart surgery. 

"Saige is doing so well and is such a happy little baby.  She even cut her first tooth this week. She is slowly gaining weight, but the key word is she is gaining.  She is like every other little 5 1/2 month old and we have great joy watching her."  Here is her picture:

Jen has lost her two companion dogs she has loved for over 15 years -- she is heartbroken.  Please pray for her.  Please pray for Maedhros, who is having a serious operation soon.  Please pray for Michael, a man who is humble and without a home or a job who needs a chance to get his life back to normal.  Pray for BG that his blinding headaches will finally stop.

Please pray for Chester as he continues to struggle through a host of medical challenges and poor care.  Give him energy, strength and resolve.  Bettina needs our prayers to give her strength and wisdom. 

Hans needs employment where he can make an honourable contribution and has applied for a role in a nearby town that could be a healthy step up for him, where he can use his skills.  Help those who receive his resume regard Hans seriously.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  Elina has had two wonderful job interviews and thanks everyone for their prayers so far for her as she searches for work. 

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Pray for my brother, Tim, that his COPD (cardio-pulmonary artery disease) is manageable for him and that he will have the patience and wisdom to cope with the limitations. 

Baby Saige faces a lifetime of surgeries, procedures and time in hospital.  Please pray for all those who care for her, especially 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 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%. 

Prayer update......Scott is doing a little better, he is taking baby steps but he still needs lots of prayers for healing, and ability to think clearly,  he also needs prayers to focus on God which he is NOT doing right now.  He thinks he can do everything himself.

ONGOING JOB RELATED:   Sergio seeking new employment - is in Mexico City.  Paul NS had two special second interviews last week.  Pray God will grant him patience and hopery.

Deepak needs prayer that his work efforts begin to bear fruit as he works through the grief of his father passing.  He needs strength and resolve to make wise decisions.

Justin B and his father in India need prayer that Justin will find work in his field of BPO and voice in the Lord's perfect time. 

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 need our continued prayers for protection and good health.  They lead the efforts of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines.  The financial needs are so great, please consider contributing...just click on Ambassadors for Christ link above. 

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.  

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  Pray for revival in the USA to continue.   Pray for Birgit who is in Germany.  Please pray for the many individuals in Singapore, China and India.  Just recently the WeakDay Devotion blog is being read by many people there!  God is mysterious!  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 and respectfully from his wonderful book.