A WeakDay Devotion: January 2017

Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Selective Remembering, Part 1

"But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish in order that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in God on the basis of faith,

"that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained it, or have already become perfect, but I press on in order that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.

"Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do; forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead. I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:7-14

"Our memory is supposed to be selective. The painful things are meant to recede over time, while the good things keep shining bright. -- It is the Enemy who likes to hang onto the rubbish so he can using it against us. He enjoys exhuming it before our faces time and again, reminding us of how dreadful we were. He doesn't want us to release those memories, to forget.[1]

You can think of things right now you wish you could forget. The truth is, you can. Simply ask the Lord Jesus Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit living within you, to take them. No matter how often they pop us, just ask Him. He never gets tired of hearing your voice and knowing you rely on Him and trust Him.

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

PS: My statement of faith is on the blog: Especially His Love . Either click the link or cut and paste this link in your Web browser (http://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com.au/ )

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

· UPDATE - Adrian - Is struggling with intense pain. We can be grateful he is in hospital. MRI found a series of new lesions on his spine. He is on a lot of morphine now and still has more tests, including a brain scan tomorrow. He had a long visit yesterday by a palliative care representative. Please do not grow weary of praying for this man. He needs social services to help him. Remember to pray for his little companion dog, Toby. He is very important to Adrian's mental well-being and a clear gift from the Lord during this time of pain and loneliness.
· Claudio - diagnosed with liver cancer. Please pray for him and his doctors and other health carers that they are compassionate and wise. Pray for Elea, his wife, as she holds his hand through this --that she has strength and hope.
· UPDATE - Judith co-labourer and wife of, Isaias in the Philippines (see prayer request in full-time ministry below). The spinal surgery was delayed again due to her high blood pressure. The pain seems more manageable for the moment, but pray for the wisdom of her doctors and health care workers.. Pray for Judith, Isaias and their selfless family who tirelessly travel throughout the Philippines teaching others how to strengthen the family of Christ. They are very humble missionaries and if the Lord moves your heart they would appreciate any donation to help defray the cost of $4,500 USD. (see prayer request below "Full-Time Service" for more details on how you can help).

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

· Adam and Careena and their children - are taking a holiday from their full-time ministry activities. Please pray for travelling mercies, great refreshment and recommitment times and protection for the children who chose to stay at home during this time.
· Marcus' neighbour - lost both her parents in the last three weeks and is reeling with grief.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

· UPDATE - Paul - continues to have job interviews this week and finally sold a script. It has given him a new confidence (he has not had paying work since 2010)! Remains on a waiting list to have a surgical procedure to repair an injury he sustained while volunteering at Vinnies (who are trying to deny paying him for this). I know the Lord is watching over him because of your prayers. Most of all, pray his heart melts enough for the Truth to touch him where it hurts.
· UPDATE - Doris - at 98 years old came through her oral surgery well. It will take about 6 weeks to heal. During this time Patti and family will be away and will not be there to care for her.
· UPDATE - BG - has been relatively pain free for almost a week and is busily making up for lost time with activities. The headaches have been diagnosed as a type of mini-strokes). He needs our prayers to strengthen him and keep him calm.
· UPDATE - Carla and Paul - have moved into their new house and are settling in now. Pray for patience and safety of the family.
· Elina - has been given some good news that will give her some important options and new strength. Thank you, Father, for watching over her at this time. Keep her heart calm and her thinking clear, give her strength and the needed wisdom to consider new challenges.
· David R - Heidi, his daughter, found a new companion dog for him - still a few teething problems and they look forward to getting his Service Dog by June.
· Careena S - with MS and Lyme's Disease is a beautiful "battler" with a quiet and gentle heart for the Lord. She thanks you for praying for her and reports she is still feeling steady on her feet the past weeks!
· UPDATE - Mel - (Meldapilu) had a hip and knee replacement and continues to strengthen. Pray for her healing and that there are family and friends available to care for her during her long recovery time and that she is sensibly patient.
· Steve/ Fion - is back at University and already the work has filled ten hours a day! Pray for his wisdom, creativity, strength, more funding for his university.
· Hans - (in West Germany) his therapy continues through March 2017. Pray the Lord gives him peace in his new situation and guards his family while he is away. Pray for those sharing this time with him that they truly care for him. Most of all, pray he finds Christian companions and leaders wherever he is.
· UPDATE - Raven - continues to strengthen after her long ordeal with cancer. Her new cancer meds have given her the opportunity to enjoy every moment the Lord is giving her. Pray she will be found cancer-free.
· Praise the Lord and pray for the many individuals in Russia, US, Australia, UK, Poland, Germany, France, Portugal, American Samoa, Romania, Ukraine, Estonia, Singapore, China, 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 ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

· My brother, Tim - The weather is growing difficult for him. Pray for sufficient strength, wisdom and health and pray also for Barb, Tim's wife, who supports and cares for him.
· No update yet about Edna Losbanes, wife of Staff Evangelist Isachar Losbanes of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines (see prayer requests below). She suffered a mild stroke on 29 December and was in hospital. They have two children and were on the road teaching youth the day before the stroke occurred. Please pray for a full recovery.
· Liriel - who is chronically ill and often in pain. Please pray for her comfort and that she can find some joy in each day.
· UPDATE - Fin/Spencer - Pray for his doctors and therapists that he will recover completely from some additional surgery and have friends with him during this time, especially Deborah.
· CK (78 years old) suffered a stroke and now seems to be having a decline in mental functioning. He is no longer able to drive. His wife is taking this over and it is really difficult for them. Please also pray for his wife.
· John has reached a plateau and is trying to release some of the duties of his big farm. It is growing legally complicated so needs prayers for this. He is on a number of medications and needs to take a more active role in his day-to-day health activities. He has also been diagnosed with sleep apnoea.
· Patti (daughter of Doris) has recently been diagnosed with asthma and now they've also diagnosed sleep apnoea and she will be getting a machine to help her sleep.
· Julia (daughter of Patti) had a concussion a while ago and we prayed for her then, but it seems it has left her with depression but the most urgent prayer request is for her to rededicate her life to the Lord Jesus Christ.
· UPDATE - Adrian (Patti's 5-1/2-year-old grandson) has behaviour problems so bad he is being regularly removed from his Kindergarten classes for safety of the other children. Please pray for the parents, teachers and Adrian.
· Aunt Donna - (Doris' sister, age 84) has dementia. Please pray for her daughters for guidance in her care.
· Joanne - sister to David R, who is being overwhelmed by dementia and macular degeneration. She is one of the most gracious Christian women I have ever known.
· Sandy - Tests are inconclusive, yet her symptoms persist. Pray for wise doctors. They suspect Crohn's Disease.

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

· Continue to pray for the special person you identified in your assignment until they fall into His arms. Then you can pick another to pray for!
· Bobby and George - that they will begin to consider Christ.
· Karen - who I spoke with recently about the Lord, that in her confusion and the chaos of her job, she will search for His peace.
· JR's wife, Jenny - Please pray for Jenny and his family as they recover from his death that this time of vulnerability will be filled with His love.
· Adam - life is filled with confusion and need. Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord cares for him.
· UPDATE - Rachael asks us to please continue to pray that Scott (in the USA) will come to the Lord for his sake and the sake of his children.
· Bible study in Jo's home continues. You can feel Jo's excitement as these women grow a step closer to understanding how loving the Lord Jesus is! Keep praying for Angie and Liz.
· Toron - (18-year-old) Pray for him to find direction and encouragement and most of all to come to the Lord.
· Lennie - PS ex-son-in-law. Please pray for his salvation. He is father to PS' 11 yr. old granddaughter's whom she spends half her time with because of shared custody.
· Sarah - still urgently needs psychiatric care. Still not communicating with family members, but God is starting to work in His mysterious ways in her life. Pray the Lord captures her heart through this situation and that she will find someone to trust to help her.
· DB's father - (84 years) please keep praying his heart opens to Christ. He is an avowed – and boastfully proud – atheist.
· Chester (Adrian's friend) with pancreatic cancer that someone will come share Christ with him soon.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

· Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to just pay what they owe him so he can have more time with his young daughter.
· Sergio - his projects have ended and he is looking for work again. He is in Mexico City where work for graphic designers is rare.
· Me - Continuing the search for a new project. Am deeply grateful for the many prayers helping carry me over this very hard place and for the practical support of Annette, Lyle and Patti.

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 growing number of displaced people from wars and famine. These refugees need compassion.
· Donald Trump - the new USA President. If ever there was a time to pray for an individual, it is now. No matter whom you voted for or wanted as President...it is our responsibility as Christians to remember God has a plan through this man. Let us pray someone helps him understand the full meaning of giving his life in faith to our gracious Saviour and that he will have someone to disciple him. So much depends on it.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

· Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) for help with their situation. They recently received word Medicaid will no longer provide home care for her. Pray for wisdom for Audley as he cares for his beloved. Pray also that God continues to multiply the effectiveness of his radio ministry in Florida.
· Doug McIntosh - an invaluable contributor to my love of Bible study has multiple myelomas. Please pray for him, his family and the church he has worked so faithfully in, Cornerstone, in Lilburn Georgia.
· St Marks Anglican Church Northbridge - and the many who serve there: especially the pastors: Simon Flinders, Adam Street, Pat O'Keeffe and their amazing wives and children.
· Jo and Steve - Please pray their individual ministries in NZ and reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters.
· 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 - a land that is growing increasingly chaotic and dangerous. 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. Please, take a moment to learn more about their tireless ministry: Go to: http://www.afciworld.org Look for "Nations" then click: "Philippines".
· Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many areas, for strength, wisdom and protection.
· Please pray for my good friend, JB, that our loving Father provides him ample opportunity to continue his ministry in Sydney.
· Buddy and Susan Smith (in Queensland) and Kevin and Sandy Currell (in Melbourne) need your prayers for their ministries.
· The Catholic Church and the Pope, who need our prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.

SOMETHING NEW FOR PRAYER WARRIORS

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

ONGOING PRAYER

· Chris H - pray his heart is focused on the Lord and His will for his life and future.
· Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, DB, PS, Reg, JD, Annette and Lyle, Carla and Paul, Jeff and Rachael and their wonderful families. Grateful thanks for their practical support and encouragement over many years.

Monday, January 30, 2017

Intricate Rococo Embroideries

[Jesus calling] '"All things have been handed over to Me by My Father; and no one knows the Son, except the Father, nor does anyone know the Father, except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.

"'Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My load is light.'" Matthew 11:27-30

"More commonly, we begin to place negative interpretations upon the facts. The reason we did such and such, we conclude, was that we're simply rotten individuals who always make a mess of things. All our vague misgivings and self-doubts link up with these events as proof of our worthlessness.

"The next step of embellishment is to put ourselves on trial. Our memories serve as evidence of guilt, after which we act as judge to pass sentence upon ourselves."[1]

It is easy to be hard on ourselves. In a workshop I facilitate I ask people to list ten things they wish they could go back and fix in their lives. Then I ask them to write down ten great things that happened in their life they are grateful for. Everyone seems to have trouble with the second one, but breeze through the negatives.

It is almost as if our brains are programmed to poorly remember the good things and play over and embellish those things we did we regret.

But regret is not enough and embellishment only hurts us more as our memories work to compromise and paralyse our forward movement. We must stop all the activity and take time to face the truth of our mistakes and offer them, yukky and all, to our Saviour.

You see He died to take them from us, but we have to abandon them to Him and not keep trying to take them back. (Please read through the prayer list at least once this week. We have some really important praying to do!)

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

PS: My statement of faith is on the blog: Especially His Love . Either click the link or cut and paste this link in your Web browser (http://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com.au/ )

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

· UPDATE - Adrian - Is struggling with intense pain. We can be grateful he is in hospital. MRI found a series of new lesions on his spine. He is on a lot of morphine now and still has more tests, including a brain scan tomorrow. Please do not grow weary of praying for this man. He needs social services to help him. Remember to pray for his little companion dog, Toby. He is very important to Adrian's mental well-being and a clear gift from the Lord during this time of pain and loneliness.
· Claudio - diagnosed with liver cancer. Please pray for him and his doctors and other health carers that they are compassionate and wise. Pray for Elea, his wife, as she holds his hand through this --that she has strength and hope.
· UPDATE - Judith co-labourer and wife of, Isaias in the Philippines (see prayer request in full-time ministry below). The spinal surgery was delayed again due to her high blood pressure. The pain seems more manageable for the moment, but pray for the wisdom of her doctors and health care workers.. Pray for Judith, Isaias and their selfless family who tirelessly travel throughout the Philippines teaching others how to strengthen the family of Christ. They are very humble missionaries and if the Lord moves your heart they would appreciate any donation to help defray the cost of $4,500 USD. (see prayer request below "Full-Time Service" for more details on how you can help).

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

· Adam and Careena and their children - are taking a holiday from their full-time ministry activities. Please pray for travelling mercies, great refreshment and recommitment times and protection for the children who chose to stay at home during this time.
· Marcus' neighbour - lost both her parents in the last three weeks and is reeling with grief.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

· UPDATE - Paul - continues to have job interviews this week and finally sold a script. It has given him a new confidence (he has not had paying work since 2010)! Remains on a waiting list to have a surgical procedure to repair an injury he sustained while volunteering at Vinnies (who are trying to deny paying him for this). I know the Lord is watching over him because of your prayers. Most of all, pray his heart melts enough for the Truth to touch him where it hurts.
· UPDATE - Doris - at 98 years old came through her oral surgery well. It will take about 6 weeks to heal. During this time Patti and family will be away and will not be there to care for her.
· UPDATE - BG - has been relatively pain free for almost a week and is busily making up for lost time with activities. The headaches have been diagnosed as a type of mini-strokes). He needs our prayers to strengthen him and keep him calm.
· UPDATE - Carla and Paul - have moved into their new house and are settling in now. Pray for patience and safety of the family.
· Elina - has been given some good news that will give her some important options and new strength. Thank you, Father, for watching over her at this time. Keep her heart calm and her thinking clear, give her strength and the needed wisdom to consider new challenges.
· David R - Heidi, his daughter, found a new companion dog for him - still a few teething problems and they look forward to getting his Service Dog by June.
· Careena S - with MS and Lyme's Disease is a beautiful "battler" with a quiet and gentle heart for the Lord. She thanks you for praying for her and reports she is still feeling steady on her feet the past weeks!
· UPDATE - Mel - (Meldapilu) had a hip and knee replacement and continues to strengthen. Pray for her healing and that there are family and friends available to care for her during her long recovery time and that she is sensibly patient.
· Steve/ Fion - is back at University and already the work has filled ten hours a day! Pray for his wisdom, creativity, strength, more funding for his university.
· Hans - (in West Germany) his therapy continues through March 2017. Pray the Lord gives him peace in his new situation and guards his family while he is away. Pray for those sharing this time with him that they truly care for him. Most of all, pray he finds Christian companions and leaders wherever he is.
· UPDATE - Raven - continues to strengthen after her long ordeal with cancer. Her new cancer meds have given her the opportunity to enjoy every moment the Lord is giving her. Pray she will be found cancer-free.
· Praise the Lord and pray for the many individuals in Russia, US, Australia, UK, Poland, Germany, France, Portugal, American Samoa, Romania, Ukraine, Estonia, Singapore, China, 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 ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

· My brother, Tim - The weather is growing difficult for him. Pray for sufficient strength, wisdom and health and pray also for Barb, Tim's wife, who supports and cares for him.
· No update yet about Edna Losbanes, wife of Staff Evangelist Isachar Losbanes of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines (see prayer requests below). She suffered a mild stroke on 29 December and was in hospital. They have two children and were on the road teaching youth the day before the stroke occurred. Please pray for a full recovery.
· Liriel - who is chronically ill and often in pain. Please pray for her comfort and that she can find some joy in each day.
· UPDATE - Fin/Spencer - Pray for his doctors and therapists that he will recover completely from some additional surgery and have friends with him during this time, especially Deborah.
· CK (78 years old) suffered a stroke and now seems to be having a decline in mental functioning. He is no longer able to drive. His wife is taking this over and it is really difficult for them. Please also pray for his wife.
· John has reached a plateau and is trying to release some of the duties of his big farm. It is growing legally complicated so needs prayers for this. He is on a number of medications and needs to take a more active role in his day-to-day health activities. He has also been diagnosed with sleep apnoea.
· Patti (daughter of Doris) has recently been diagnosed with asthma and now they've also diagnosed sleep apnoea and she will be getting a machine to help her sleep.
· Julia (daughter of Patti) had a concussion awhile ago and we prayed for her then, but it seems it has left her with depression but the most urgent prayer request is for her to rededicate her life to the Lord Jesus Christ.
· UPDATE - Adrian (Patti's 5-1/2-year-old grandson) has behaviour problems so bad he is being regularly removed from his Kindergarten classes for safety of the other children. Please pray for the parents, teachers and Adrian.
· Aunt Donna - (Doris' sister, age 84) has dementia. Please pray for her daughters for guidance in her care.
· Joanne - sister to David R, who is being overwhelmed by dementia and macular degeneration. She is one of the most gracious Christian women I have ever known.
· Sandy - Tests are inconclusive, yet her symptoms persist. Pray for wise doctors. They suspect Crohn's Disease.

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

· Continue to pray for the special person you identified in your assignment until they fall into His arms. Then you can pick another to pray for!
· Bobby and George - that they will begin to consider Christ.
· Karen - who I spoke with recently about the Lord, that in her confusion and the chaos of her job, she will search for His peace.
· JR's wife, Jenny - Please pray for Jenny and his family as they recover from his death that this time of vulnerability will be filled with His love.
· Adam - life is filled with confusion and need. Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord cares for him.
· UPDATE - Rachael asks us to please continue to pray that Scott (in the USA) will come to the Lord for his sake and the sake of his children.
· Bible study in Jo's home continues. You can feel Jo's excitement as these women grow a step closer to understanding how loving the Lord Jesus is! Keep praying for Angie and Liz.
· Toron - (18-year-old) Pray for him to find direction and encouragement and most of all to come to the Lord.
· Lennie - PS ex-son-in-law. Please pray for his salvation. He is father to PS' 11 yr. old granddaughter's whom she spends half her time with because of shared custody.
· Sarah - still urgently needs psychiatric care. Still not communicating with family members, but God is starting to work in His mysterious ways in her life. Pray the Lord captures her heart through this situation and that she will find someone to trust to help her.
· DB's father - (84 years) please keep praying his heart opens to Christ. He is an avowed – and boastfully proud – atheist.
· Chester (Adrian's friend) with pancreatic cancer that someone will come share Christ with him soon.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

· Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to just pay what they owe him so he can have more time with his young daughter.
· Sergio - his projects have ended and he is looking for work again. He is in Mexico City where work for graphic designers is rare.
· Me - Continuing the search for a new project. Am deeply grateful for the many prayers helping carry me over this very hard place.

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 growing number of displaced people from wars and famine. These refugees need compassion.
· Donald Trump - the new USA President. If ever there was a time to pray for an individual, it is now. No matter whom you voted for or wanted as President...it is our responsibility as Christians to remember God has a plan through this man. Let us pray someone helps him understand the full meaning of giving his life in faith to our gracious Saviour and that he will have someone to disciple him. So much depends on it.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

· Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) for help with their situation. They recently received word Medicaid will no longer provide home care for her. Pray for wisdom for Audley as he cares for his beloved. Pray also that God continues to multiply the effectiveness of his radio ministry in Florida.
· Doug McIntosh - an invaluable contributor to my love of Bible study has multiple myelomas. Please pray for him, his family and the church he has worked so faithfully in, Cornerstone, in Lilburn Georgia.
· St Marks Anglican Church Northbridge - and the many who serve there: especially the pastors: Simon Flinders, Adam Street, Pat O'Keeffe and their amazing wives and children.
· Jo and Steve - Please pray their individual ministries in NZ and reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters.
· 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 - a land that is growing increasingly chaotic and dangerous. 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. Please, take a moment to learn more about their tireless ministry: Go to: http://www.afciworld.org Look for "Nations" then click: "Philippines".
· Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many areas, for strength, wisdom and protection.
· Please pray for my good friend, JB, that our loving Father provides him ample opportunity to continue his ministry in Sydney.
· Buddy and Susan Smith (in Queensland) and Kevin and Sandy Currell (in Melbourne) need your prayers for their ministries.
· The Catholic Church and the Pope, who need our prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.

SOMETHING NEW FOR PRAYER WARRIORS

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

ONGOING PRAYER

· Chris H - pray his heart is focused on the Lord and His will for his life and future.
· Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, DB, PS, Reg, JD, Annette and Lyle, Carla and Paul, Jeff and Rachael and their wonderful families. Grateful thanks for their practical support and encouragement over many years.

Sunday, January 29, 2017

Memory Prison

Simon and Garfunkle

Bookends (In YouTube at:

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5S5V-Y53ad4 )

"And it came about when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds began saying to one another, 'Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.' And they came in haste and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger.

"And when they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.

"But Mary treasured up all these things; pondering them in her heart." Luke 2:15-19

There was a Simon and Garfield song with a line: "Preserve your memories, that's all that's left to you." Yes, our memories are one of God's greatest gifts and a unique part of our creation as human beings in His image, yet, sometimes we have memories we would rather lose.

"What do we do with our memories? Several options are available to us. We can become their prisoner. The replay machinery of the brain has a vast power supply, and the tapes do not wear out with use; if anything, they become more indelible. It is thus altogether possible to live for weeks, months, and even years in a vicious trap of the past."[1]

If we look back again to the way Paul and Judas handled their memories you can see how important it is to trust the Lord with your memories and never, ever let them imprison you. Mary took yet a third way to handle memories...to remember the Lord is the Lord of her life, treasure the memories and learn from them.

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

PS: My statement of faith is on the blog: Especially His Love . Either click the link or cut and paste this link in your Web browser (http://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com.au/ )

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

· UPDATE - Adrian - Was taken to hospital by ambulance with intense pain. They've done an MRI and found a series of new lesions on his spine. He was in so much pain he could barely let me know. The hospital is working to managing the pain with drugs and he has more tests, including a brain scan today. Please do not grow weary of praying for this man. He needs social services to help him. Remember to pray for his little companion dog, Toby. He is very important to Adrian's mental well-being and a clear gift from the Lord during this time of pain and loneliness.
· UPDATE - Judith co-labourer and wife of, Isaias in the Philippines (see prayer request in full-time ministry below). The spinal surgery was delayed again due to her high blood pressure. The pain seems more manageable for the moment, but pray for the wisdom of her doctors and health care workers.. Pray for Judith, Isaias and their selfless family who tirelessly travel throughout the Philippines teaching others how to strengthen the family of Christ. They are very humble missionaries and if the Lord moves your heart they would appreciate any donation to help defray the cost of $4,500 USD. (see prayer request below "Full-Time Service" for more details on how you can help).
· UPDATE - Paul - continues to have job interviews again this week (has not had paying work since 2010). Is on a waiting list to have a surgical procedure to repair an injury he sustained while volunteering at Vinnies (who are trying to deny paying him for this). I know the Lord is watching over him because of your prayers. Most of all, pray his heart melts enough for the Truth to touch him where it hurts. He continues to search for a job and has not had work since 2010!

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

· UPDATE - Doris - at 98 years old came through her oral surgery well. It will take about 6 weeks to heal. During this time Patti and family will be away and will not be there to care for her.
· Claudio - diagnosed with liver cancer. Please pray for him and his doctors and other health carers that they are compassionate and wise. Pray for Elea, his wife, as she holds his hand through this --that she has strength and hope.
· David R - Heidi, his daughter, found a new companion dog for him but apparently, it was mistreated and is biting as well as a few other challenges. His Service Dog will not be available until June.
· Adam and Careena and their children - are taking a holiday from their full-time ministry activities. Please pray for travelling mercies, great refreshment and recommitment times and protection for the children who chose to stay at home during this time.
· Marcus' neighbour - lost both her parents in the last three weeks and is reeling with grief.
· CK (78 years old) suffered a stroke and now seems to be having a decline in mental functioning. He is no longer able to drive. His wife is taking this over and it is really difficult for them. Please also pray for his wife.
· John has reached a plateau and is trying to release some of the duties of his big farm. It is growing legally complicated so needs prayers for this. He is on a number of medications and needs to take a more active role in his day-to-day health activities. He has also been diagnosed with sleep apnoea.
· Patti (daughter of Doris) has recently been diagnosed with asthma and now they've also diagnosed sleep apnoea and she will be getting a machine to help her sleep.
· Julia (daughter of Patti) had a concussion awhile ago and we prayed for her then, but it seems it has left her with depression but the most urgent prayer request is for her to rededicate her life to the Lord Jesus Christ.
· UPDATE - Adrian (Patti's 5-1/2-year-old grandson) has behaviour problems so bad he is being regularly removed from his Kindergarten classes for safety of the other children. Please pray for the parents, teachers and Adrian.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

· UPDATE - BG - has been relatively pain-free for almost a week and is busily making up for lost time with activities. The headaches have been diagnosed as a type of mini-strokes). He needs our prayers to strengthen him and keep him calm.
· UPDATE - Carla and Paul - have moved into their new house and are settling in now. Pray for patience and safety of the family.
· Elina - has been given some good news that will give her some important options and new strength. Thank you, Father, for watching over her at this time. Keep her heart calm and her thinking clear, give her strength and the needed wisdom to consider new challenges.
· Careena S - with MS and Lyme's Disease is a beautiful "battler" with a quiet and gentle heart for the Lord. She thanks you for praying for her and reports she is still feeling steady on her feet the past weeks!
· UPDATE - Mel - (Meldapilu) had a hip and knee replacement and continues to strengthen. Pray for her healing and that there are family and friends available to care for her during her long recovery time and that she is sensibly patient.
· Steve/ Fion - is back at University and already the work has filled ten hours a day! Pray for his wisdom, creativity, strength, more funding for his university.
· Hans - (in West Germany) his therapy continues through March 2017. Pray the Lord gives him peace in his new situation and guards his family while he is away. Pray for those sharing this time with him that they truly care for him. Most of all, pray he finds Christian companions and leaders wherever he is.
· UPDATE - Raven - continues to strengthen after her long ordeal with cancer. Her new cancer meds have given her the opportunity to enjoy every moment the Lord is giving her. Pray she will be found cancer-free.
· Praise the Lord and pray for the many individuals in Russia, US, Australia, UK, Poland, Germany, France, Portugal, American Samoa, Romania, Ukraine, Estonia, Singapore, China, 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 ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

· My brother, Tim - The weather is growing difficult for him. Pray for sufficient strength, wisdom and health and pray also for Barb, Tim's wife, who supports and cares for him.
· No update yet about Edna Losbanes, wife of Staff Evangelist Isachar Losbanes of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines (see prayer requests below). She suffered a mild stroke on 29 December and was in hospital. They have two children and were on the road teaching youth the day before the stroke occurred. Please pray for a full recovery.
· Liriel - who is chronically ill and often in pain. Please pray for her comfort and that she can find some joy in each day.
· UPDATE - Fin/Spencer - Pray for his doctors and therapists that he will recover completely from some additional surgery and have friends with him during this time, especially Deborah.
· Aunt Donna - (Doris' sister, age 84) has dementia. Please pray for her daughters for guidance in her care.
· Joanne - sister to David R, who is being overwhelmed by dementia and macular degeneration. She is one of the most gracious Christian women I have ever known.
· Sandy - Tests are inconclusive, yet her symptoms persist. Pray for wise doctors. They suspect Crohn's Disease.

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

· Continue to pray for the special person you identified in your assignment until they fall into His arms. Then you can pick another to pray for!
· Bobby and George - that they will begin to consider Christ.
· Karen - who I spoke with recently about the Lord, that in her confusion and the chaos of her job, she will search for His peace.
· JR's wife, Jenny - Please pray for Jenny and his family as they recover from his death that this time of vulnerability will be filled with His love.
· Adam - life is filled with confusion and need. Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord cares for him.
· UPDATE - Rachael asks us to please continue to pray that Scott (in the USA) will come to the Lord for his sake and the sake of his children.
· Bible study in Jo's home continues. You can feel Jo's excitement as these women grow a step closer to understanding how loving the Lord Jesus is! Keep praying for Angie and Liz.
· Toron - (18-year-old) Pray for him to find direction and encouragement and most of all to come to the Lord.
· Lennie - PS ex-son-in-law. Please pray for his salvation. He is father to PS' 11 yr. old granddaughter's whom she spends half her time with because of shared custody.
· Sarah - still urgently needs psychiatric care. Still not communicating with family members, but God is starting to work in His mysterious ways in her life. Pray the Lord captures her heart through this situation and that she will find someone to trust to help her.
· DB's father - (84 years) please keep praying his heart opens to Christ. He is an avowed – and boastfully proud – atheist.
· Chester (Adrian's friend) with pancreatic cancer that someone will come share Christ with him soon.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

· Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to just pay what they owe him so he can have more time with his young daughter.
· Sergio - his projects have ended and he is looking for work again. He is in Mexico City where work for graphic designers is rare.
· Me - Continuing the search for a new project. Am deeply grateful for the many prayers helping carry me over this very hard place.

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 growing number of displaced people from wars and famine. These refugees need compassion.
· Donald Trump - the new USA President. If ever there was a time to pray for an individual, it is now. No matter whom you voted for or wanted as President...it is our responsibility as Christians to remember God has a plan through this man. Let us pray someone helps him understand the full meaning of giving his life in faith to our gracious Saviour and that he will have someone to disciple him. So much depends on it.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

· Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) for help with their situation. They recently received word Medicaid will no longer provide home care for her. Pray for wisdom for Audley as he cares for his beloved. Pray also that God continues to multiply the effectiveness of his radio ministry in Florida.
· Doug McIntosh - an invaluable contributor to my love of Bible study has multiple myelomas. Please pray for him, his family and the church he has worked so faithfully in, Cornerstone, in Lilburn Georgia.
· St Marks Anglican Church Northbridge - and the many who serve there: especially the pastors: Simon Flinders, Adam Street, Pat O'Keeffe and their amazing wives and children.
· Jo and Steve - Please pray their individual ministries in NZ and reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters.
· 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 - a land that is growing increasingly chaotic and dangerous. 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. Please, take a moment to learn more about their tireless ministry: Go to: http://www.afciworld.org Look for "Nations" then click: "Philippines".
· Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many areas, for strength, wisdom and protection.
· Please pray for my good friend, JB, that our loving Father provides him ample opportunity to continue his ministry in Sydney.
· Buddy and Susan Smith (in Queensland) and Kevin and Sandy Currell (in Melbourne) need your prayers for their ministries.
· The Catholic Church and the Pope, who need our prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.

SOMETHING NEW FOR PRAYER WARRIORS

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

ONGOING PRAYER

· Chris H - pray his heart is focused on the Lord and His will for his life and future.
· Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, DB, PS, Reg, JD, 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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Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Selective Remembering, Part 1

Monday, January 30, 2017

Intricate Rococo Embroideries

Sunday, January 29, 2017

Memory Prison

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