Thursday, March 3, 2016

Water, Water Everywhere or Not?


You probably are well aware of the growing problem, 
but here are some quick statistics to help bring 
you up-to-date on the extent of the problem:




There is no easy answer, but having worked 
with Samaritans Purse and seen their dedication, 
there are some who are trying to help:




"And the third angel sounded, and a great star fell from heaven, burning like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of waters; and the name of the star is called Wormwood; and a third of the waters became wormwood; and many men died from the waters, because they were made bitter." Revelation 8:10-11

Did you know that more than twice the number of the entire population of the United States of America do not have access to safe water, some have suggested even higher figures with less than 20 percent of the world's population lacking clean water and proper sanitation.  The water crisis is "the number one global risk based on impact to society (as a measure of devastation)" according to the World Economic Forum in January 2015.

It has not happened overnight, you realise, and although Revelation is regularly sensationalised, remember God's time does not run as our time clocks do.  His perspective and viewpoint is unique.

No He doesn't want people to die from not having clean water.  He provided water in pure form originally, but the sin of greed and our lack of caring for our surroundings has resulted in deterioration and destruction of His provisions for us. 

Remember, Revelation is not just a sensational story to scare the pants off non-believers it is for all of us to consider how we should live our lives today.

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

URGENT PRAYER REQUESTS

  • ·        Brody - Brody came home from the hospital yesterday.  He still needs 2 more surgeries, but things are looking better.  It will be a long road of healing and being able to walk.  Thanks for prayers, keep praying.  Pray for his physicians and carers; and for Trish, his wife-to-be, as they are planning their wedding.  Let this strengthen their commitment to Christ and to each other.
  • ·        Paul - had another meeting with the people who have indicated they want him to work with them, but they are struggling with their budget, it seems.  Pray he stays strong while he waits.  This would be his first work since 2012!!.


PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

  • ·        Adrian - Sounded better than he has in months and had come from the orthopaedic surgeon for initial consultation.  They think he won't need the entire shoulder replaced.  Also, he is going to look at a new place to live tomorrow.  It is less expensive and about four times bigger than what he has been living in for the last 3.5 years -- and he can have Toby with him.  Keep praying please.
  • ·        Fion - We've been praying for his father for a couple of years now after his stroke.  He went home to be with his Lord Monday morning USA time.  Pray for his Mom now and the rest of the family as they grieve but celebrate his homecoming!
  • ·        BG they've discovered the vessels in his head are too narrow and with this diagnosis, they will begin treatment.  Thank you for praying.  Keep praying for wisdom and compassion in his health care providers and specialists.
  • ·        Heidi - the Macys she works at is closing and she has just found a new position.  Thank you for praying.
  • ·        Matt - Heidi's brother -  out of ICU but will remain in the hospital as he recovers from double pneumonia and strep infection.
  • ·        Raven - no signs of new cancer.


NEW PRAYER REQUEST

  • ·        David R - series of new tests scheduled on 6 April to see if the sight he lost in his left eye from the stroke can be restored.
  • ·        Sergio continues to look for a new job.  He is in Mexico City and the work there, for graphic designers, is rare. 
  • ·        FW - needs strength and resolve to keep focused and safe.
  • ·        Me - Budget problems with my project means I've been out of work since the end of January.  Am looking elsewhere.  Pray the Lord has something prepared and that I wait patiently and without stressing.


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.
  • ·        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. 
  • ·        Please pray for Rik, receiving specialist treatment for Lyme's Disease.
  • ·        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."


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.
  • ·        Pray for Toron, who at 18, is needing encouragement, care and direction.
  • ·        Fion:  He is working far too many hours.  Pray the organisation he works with will improve conditions for him.
  • ·        Pray for Shan and Gemma as they plan the details of their wedding.  May they stay ever close to His leading.
  • ·        Hans is waiting for a place in a new training clinic (which may take up to 6 months).  Pray he finds Christian companions and leaders wherever he is.
  • ·        Deepak - pray he has rested well since running a conference in New Zealand last week and that his efforts have paid off with new business and financially. 
  • ·        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.
  • ·        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 in the Philippines. 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.
  • ·        The Catholic Church and the new Pope need your prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.


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


ADDITIONAL PRAYER REQUESTS

  • ·        Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, Reg, Annette and Lyle, Carla and Paul, Jeff and Rachael and their wonderful families.  Grateful thanks for their practical support and encouragement over many years.

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