Sorrow or Sorrow?

"Be gracious to me, O God, according to Thy lovingkindness; according to the greatness of Thy compassion blot out my transgressions.  Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. 

"For I know my transgressions and my sin is ever before me.  Against Thee, Thee only, I have sinned, and done what is evil in Thy sight, so that Thou are justified when Thou dost speak, and blameless when Thou dost judge.

"Restore to me the joy of Thy salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit.  Then I will teach transgressors Thy ways, and sinners will be converted to Thee.  Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, Thou God of my salvation.  Then my tongue will joyfully sing of Thy righteousness.  O Lord, open my lips, that my mouth may declare Thy praise." Psalm 51:1-4, 12-15

Search YouTube for "How Can It Be"

by Lauren Daigle or cut and paste

this link in your browser:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wt5X91ciE6Y

"The difference, say the co-authors, is that 'psychological guilt produces self-inflicted misery.  Constructive sorrow produces a positive change of behaviour."[1]

There are two sorrows fighting within us as we make our way to the Throne of Grace.  One is focused on our own suffering alone.  The other looks at how this suffering will produce more fruit from us...suffering for our good and His glory!

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 - spoke with Adrian last night, he is very disoriented, very impatient and in pain.  Today, he will spend 8 hours receiving his cancer infusion in the hospital.  A social worker is supposed to come there to help with paperwork for him to get a full disability pension.   Please pray for Stewart McClelland, retired pastor holding Adrian's hand through this.  Please do not grow weary of praying for him.  He needs to feel the hand of the Lord covering and comforting him.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

• ·        David R - is on oxygen now as his breathing is difficult (which may affect his health in other ways).  Some people moved in above where they live and are smokers.  It has badly affected him.  Please pray for a good solution.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• ·        Me - They began the paperwork for the new project (with the Federal government).  No start date, but hopefully within three weeks.  God is patiently and surprisingly helping me through.  Am deeply grateful for the many prayers helping carry me over this very hard place and for the practical support of His people. 
• ·        Fea - is home from hospital recovering from a serious injury to her left arm.  Please pray for her complete recovery.
• ·        Paul - sold a script he was writing!.  It has given him a new confidence (he has not had paying work since 2010) and he is buying the groceries for the house!  He has been having more interviews.  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. 
• ·        Doris - at 98 years old came through her oral surgery well.  It will take about 6 weeks to heal.  Patty is now home.
• ·        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.  
• ·        Carla and Paul - have moved into their new house and are settling in now.  Pray for patience and safety of the family.
• ·        Elina - 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!
• ·        Mel - (Meldapilu) hip replacement has healed well, but knee replacement continues give her trouble.  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. 
• ·        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

• ·        Judith co-labourer and loving wife of, Isaias in the Philippines (see prayer request in full-time ministry below).  Spinal surgery delayed due to her high blood pressure.  Pray for the wisdom of her doctors and health care workers.  I had the privilege of meeting these amazing and selfless 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 if you wish to help).
• ·        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.
• ·        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.  
• ·        Edna Losbanes - wife of Staff Evangelist Isachar Losbanes of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines (see prayer requests below) suffered a mild stroke 29 December.  They need help for an air conditioner, a small refrigerator to protect her injectable insulin (about $1,000) and $300 per month for her medicines of $300.  Please pray for these simple needs and for her 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.
• ·        Fin/Spencer - Pray for his doctors and therapists that he will recover completely from some additional surgery.  They have also identified he has an ulcer.  Pray he has 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.
• ·        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!
• ·        Pray for RS who I had the delightful privilege of sharing the Gospel with yesterday.  Please pray for her that she keeps considering what we discussed.
• ·        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.
• ·        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. 

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.
• ·        Tallest Dam in USA - Orville, Northern California - this piece of dramatic news has fallen off the media's most wanted list but the dam is not stable and weather in that area continues to pour with rain.  This is a catastrophe waiting to happen.  Please pray for the engineers and workers.

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

• ·        Imi - lost her Mom recently and needs extra support.
• ·        Chris H - pray his heart is focused on the Lord and His will for his life and future.
• ·        Marcus' neighbour - lost both her parents in the last three weeks and is reeling with grief.
• ·        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.

---

[1] Copyright © 1981, 1998 by Dean Merrill, The God Who Won't Let Go, published by Zondervan Publishing House, p.102.

4. Replace the Old

"For though I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it; though I did regret it -- for I see that that letter caused you sorrow, though only for a while -- I now rejoice not that you were made sorrowful, but that you were made sorrowful to the point of repentance; for you were made sorrowful according to the will of God, in order that you might not suffer loss in anything through us.

"For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation; but the sorrow of the world produced death." II Corinthians 7:8-10

"4. Replace the old, hurtful intrepretations with the new ones gained through meditation and prayer.  We can lay aside the thoughts that have been jabbing at us as we take up the divide perspectives.  We can even begin to praise God for the relief He has granted and the new meaning He has given to the event."[1]

Part of healthy meditation in God's Word during your prayer time may include a bit of imagination where you "replay" past traumas and ask Jesus to step into the scene.  Ask Him to heal, sooth, bind up these wounds and help you find a new perspective on all that has happened -- and lessons learned for the future.

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, who prays for you each morning, Darlene (Also, those with AOL email accounts, know that the daily emails I'm sending are continually being returned undeliverable.)

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 - spoke with Adrian last night, he is very disoriented, in pain and confused and needed to talk with the doctors, but it was too late.  I encouraged him to call anyway because he may need to go to hospital.  Also, please pray for Stewart McClelland, retired pastor holding Adrian's hand through this.  Please do not grow weary of praying for him.  He needs to feel the hand of the Lord covering and comforting him. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

·        David R - is on oxygen now as his breathing is difficult (which may affect his health in other ways).  Some people moved in above where they live and are smokers.  It has badly affected him.  Please pray for a good solution.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• ·        Me - They began the paperwork for the new project with the Federal government) no start date but sounds like within three weeks - far too long!  My stress is still high but God is patiently helping me through.  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. 
• ·        Fea - is home from hospital recovering from a serious injury to her left arm.  Please pray for her complete recovery.
• ·        Paul - sold a script he was writing!.  It has given him a new confidence (he has not had paying work since 2010) and he is buying the groceries for the house!  He has been having more interviews.  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. 
• ·        Doris - at 98 years old came through her oral surgery well.  It will take about 6 weeks to heal.  Patty is now home.
• ·        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.  
• ·        Carla and Paul - have moved into their new house and are settling in now.  Pray for patience and safety of the family.
• ·        Elina - 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!
• ·        Mel - (Meldapilu) hip replacement has healed well, but knee replacement continues give her trouble.  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. 
• ·        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

• ·        Judith co-labourer and loving wife of, Isaias in the Philippines (see prayer request in full-time ministry below).  Spinal surgery delayed due to her high blood pressure.  Pray for the wisdom of her doctors and health care workers.  I had the privilege of meeting these amazing and selfless 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 if you wish to help).
• ·        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.
• ·        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.  
• ·        Edna Losbanes - wife of Staff Evangelist Isachar Losbanes of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines (see prayer requests below) suffered a mild stroke 29 December.  They need help for an air conditioner, a small refrigerator to protect her injectable insulin (about $1,000) and $300 per month for her medicines of $300.  Please pray for these simple needs and for her 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.
• ·        Fin/Spencer - Pray for his doctors and therapists that he will recover completely from some additional surgery.  They have also identified he has an ulcer.  Pray he has 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.
• ·        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!
• ·        Pray for RS who I had the delightful privilege of sharing the Gospel with yesterday.  Please pray for her that she keeps considering what we discussed.
• ·        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.
• ·        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. 

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.
• ·        Tallest Dam in USA - Orville, Northern California - this piece of dramatic news has fallen off the media's most wanted list but the dam is not stable and weather in that area continues to pour with rain.  This is a catastrophe waiting to happen.  Please pray for the engineers and workers.

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

• ·        Imi - lost her Mom recently and needs extra support.
• ·        Chris H - pray his heart is focused on the Lord and His will for his life and future.
• ·        Marcus' neighbour - lost both her parents in the last three weeks and is reeling with grief.
• ·        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.

---

[1] Copyright © 1981, 1998 by Dean Merrill, The God Who Won't Let Go, published by Zondervan Publishing House, pp.101-102.

3. Meditate on This!

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer." Psalms 19:14

"Let the words of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.  And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus giving thanks through Him to God the Father." Colossians 3:16

"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

"If we are willing to spend portions of our prayer time listening rather than talking, we will find God shedding new light on our circumstances.  He will move us past our mistakes, we will hear ourselves saying, 'At least now I know some of the worst things about myself.  I can't be fooled that way again!'" 

"And as we wait in God's presence, we become aware of options for our future.  We are released from our first fixation on the tragedy; we find less painful ways of thinking about or lives."[1]

Today's world thinks of meditation as emptying your mind completely by using things like a "mantra" - a word or combination of words repeated over and over until your thinking is compromised. 

However, when Christians meditate it is a concentrated time of focusing on His Word -- filling our thoughts with His Word -- not to mindlessly repeat a verse or passage, but to think about how it relates to you. 

"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate equipped for every good work." II Timothy 3:16 

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, who prays for you each morning, Darlene (Also, those with AOL email accounts, know that the daily emails I'm sending are continually being returned undeliverable.)

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?

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

·        David R - His on oxygen.  His breathing is difficult and some new people moved in above where they live and are smokers.  It has badly affected him.  Please pray for a good solution.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• ·        UPDATE - Adrian - met up with a retired pastor (please pray for Stewart McClelland) who spent time with him this week and is trying to find him new accommodation.  Adrian is exhausted, miserable and grumpy with the pain, heat and humidity.  Please do not grow weary of praying for him.  He needs to feel the hand of the Lord covering and comforting him. 
• ·        Me - They began the paperwork for the new project with the Federal government) no start date but sounds like within three weeks - far too long!  My stress is still high but God is patiently helping me through.  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. 
• ·        Fea - is home from hospital recovering from a serious injury to her left arm.  Please pray for her complete recovery.
• ·        Paul - sold a script he was writing!.  It has given him a new confidence (he has not had paying work since 2010) and he is buying the groceries for the house!  He has been having more interviews.  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. 
• ·        Doris - at 98 years old came through her oral surgery well.  It will take about 6 weeks to heal.  Patty is now home.
• ·        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.  
• ·        Carla and Paul - have moved into their new house and are settling in now.  Pray for patience and safety of the family.
• ·        Elina - 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!
• ·        Mel - (Meldapilu) hip replacement has healed well, but knee replacement continues give her trouble.  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. 
• ·        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

• ·        Judith co-labourer and loving wife of, Isaias in the Philippines (see prayer request in full-time ministry below).  Spinal surgery delayed due to her high blood pressure.  Pray for the wisdom of her doctors and health care workers.  I had the privilege of meeting these amazing and selfless 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 if you wish to help).
• ·        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.
• ·        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.   
• ·        Edna Losbanes - wife of Staff Evangelist Isachar Losbanes of Ambassadors for Christ in the Philippines (see prayer requests below) suffered a mild stroke 29 December.  They need help for an air conditioner, a small refrigerator to protect her injectable insulin (about $1,000) and $300 per month for her medicines of $300.  Please pray for these simple needs and for her 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.
• ·        Fin/Spencer - Pray for his doctors and therapists that he will recover completely from some additional surgery.  They have also identified he has an ulcer.  Pray he has 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.
• ·        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!
• ·        Pray for RS who I had the delightful privilege of sharing the Gospel with yesterday.  Please pray for her that she keeps considering what we discussed.
• ·        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.
• ·        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. 

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.
• ·        Tallest Dam in USA - Orville, Northern California - this piece of dramatic news has fallen off the media's most wanted list but the dam is not stable and weather in that area continues to pour with rain.  This is a catastrophe waiting to happen.  Please pray for the engineers and workers.

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

• ·        Imi - lost her Mom recently and needs extra support.
• ·        Chris H - pray his heart is focused on the Lord and His will for his life and future.
• ·        Marcus' neighbour - lost both her parents in the last three weeks and is reeling with grief.
• ·        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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[1] Copyright © 1981, 1998 by Dean Merrill, The God Who Won't Let Go, published by Zondervan Publishing House, pp.100-101.