Why is Revelation so Difficult?

[Jesus teaching] "'Behold I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; therefore be shrewd as serpents, and innocent and doves.  But beware of men; for they deliver you up to the courts, and scourge you in their synagogues; and you shall even be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.

"'But when they deliver you up, do not become anxious about how or what you speak; for it shall be given you in that hour what you are to speak.   For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.

"'And brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents, and cause them to be put to death.  And you will be hated by all on account of My name,'" Matthew 10:6-22a

Most of us would find it a horror story to live a world where you could be killed just for what you believed; where even your family members would turn you in to the authorities.  When Revelation was written, any who were of the lineage of David (Jewish) or who would not bow before the state (Christians), were hunted down and killed in unimaginable ways. 

Dictators throughout the history of the world have done what it takes to secure their rule.  Think of Mao, Idi Amin, Pol Pot, Hitler and many others from recent times. 

Survivors of the targeted group find ways to share hope.  Revelation was written, not to be difficult to read and understand, but to cloak the true message of Christ, so it could be safely shared and circulated.

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, who prays for you each morning, Darlene

URGENT PRAYER REQUESTS?

NEW PRAYER REQUEST

• ·         Adrian - had to go back to hospital yesterday for a special chemo treatment as they did not read his lab results correctly.  He is so tired and just trying to do his laundry has had him in tears.  The promised Meals on Wheels the hospital arranged have not shown up and he is eating cereal again.  Keep praying for home situation, his protection and the health of his little companion dog, Toby.  Pray the two people Adrian met, Lissa and Richard, will in fact visit him and help him.
• ·         [Bettina shared]:  "Jim M has gone home to be with the Lord after a long battle.  Please pray for his family and friends as they grieve their loss.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING?

PRAY FOR THE WORLD

• ·        That the Lord's hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read these devotions.  That His mighty works will be worked out in each life for His purposes and glory in surprising and wonderful ways!
• ·        For Christ-centred, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.
• ·        European Migrant Situation - a prayer for the migrants, but also for the European states, who are overwhelmed and don`t know how to cope with the situation.
• ·        Pray for the many individuals in Singapore, China, Russia, India and Alaska who are regularly reading the WeakDay Devotion on-line.  The blog seems to be gathering an audience in unexpected and mysterious geographic locations.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS

• ·        My brother, Tim, with COPD (Cardio-Obstructive Pulmonary Artery Disease), that he has patience and wisdom to help him manage his health and the limitations to his breathing. 
• ·        David R as he manages his macular degeneration and a host of other health challenges and for Heidi, his daughter who cares for him.
• ·        Fion's father recovering from a stroke for over a year in a special care facility.  Now is strong enough to go home, where his wife can care for him more easily.  Continue to pray for them and for Fion, as his workload is so heavy at this time.
• ·        Please pray for TG who is recovering in hospital with severe chemical burns to his lungs.
• ·        Please pray for Rik, a good friend who has been diagnosed with Lyme's Disease and is undergoing very expensive, long-distance treatment to restore his health.
• ·        BG that his blinding headaches will finally stop.
• ·        Adrian asks:  Pray for my friend, Chester with pancreatic cancer - for energy, strength and resolve as he deals with a worldly system that continues to abuse him; and that someone will come share Christ with him soon.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH ONGOING JOB-RELATED CHALLENGES

• ·        Hans needs wisdom, confidence and courage to guide him during this time, some emergency funds and a suitable job.  He is a young Christian man who is in West Germany.
• ·        Paul NS had two good job interviews last week, and will have another interview tomorrow.  He has not had work since 2012 and would appreciate your prayers
• ·        Elina got the law internship she dreamed of and asks us to pray the Lord allows her to stay there after she passes the bar in February. 
• ·        Deepak needs to have his tireless work efforts bear fruit as he continues to develop his business. 
• ·        My project has ended.  I need to find another project as soon as the Lord provides.

SOMETHING NEW FOR PRAYER WARRIORS

• Elaine and Jim, wonderful friends of mine in Hong Kong have begun an online church with a special prayer room that is open 24/7.  There are a small army of dedicated prayer warriors waiting to pray with you.  Please pray for them and go here to learn more:  Https://www.thelittlechurchworld.org/prayer-room

ONGOING PRAYER

• ·        For Fred as he deals with life without his beloved wife.  Please pray for the recognition of how his life will be fulfilled now.
• ·        Shan needs clarity of purpose and direction for his ministry and his choice and timing of life partner.  He is taking three months off to spend time with his father.  Pray for their time together.
• ·        Keep praying for the two unsaved women in Jo's Bible class:  Angie and Liz.
• ·        There has been no update to numerous follow-ups regarding Wezley an 18-year old who lost her way.  The Lord knows where she is, just keep praying for her that she turns to Him.
• ·        Adrian pays a substantial sum for one small room in the back of a shared home with an elderly man named Phil, who seems to be part of Adrian's stress.  Pray the Lord gives Phil more patience, understanding, empathy, compassion and gentleness.
• ·        Bettina for additional strength and wisdom.
•  

FOR THOSE IN FULL TIME SERVICE

• ·        Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) for help with their situation and his return to ministry.
• ·        Stu and Jo and their grown children, Laura and Jason - a family serving in full-time ministry in New Zealand.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute. 
• ·        Isaias and Judith need prayers for physical healing and funds for some unexpected medical care.  God owns the cattle on a thousand hills!  Pray our Father continues to keep them strong and safe and that they find balance.  They give so much to so many for so little.  Take a moment to learn more about their tireless ministry:  Go to:  http://www.afciworld.org  Look for "Nations" then click "Philippines".
• ·        Please pray for my good friend, JB, that our loving Father provides him with ample opportunity to continue his ministry.
• ·        Buddy and Susan Smith and Kevin and Sandy Currell need your prayers for their ministries in Australia.
• ·        Yangrae and the Uniting Church he shepherds in Australia, that he and his family will have the energy, strength and good health to feed the flock He has entrusted to Yangrae.
• ·        The Catholic Church and the new Pope need your prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.

ADDITIONAL PRAYER REQUESTS

• ·        For Gemma - wisdom.
• ·        Jen needs the watchful care of the Lord in her life.
• ·        Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, Reg, Annette and Lyle, Carla and Paul, Jeff and Rachael and their wonderful families.  Thanksgiving for their practical support and encouragement over many years.