Weekend Assignment - Three Too Shiny!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjNZf878ISQ 

Or search YouTube for

O My Soul by Casting Crowns

"Then the Lord said to Moses, 'Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel.' 

"So he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he did not eat bread or drink water.  And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments.

And it came about when Moses was coming down from Mount Sinai (and the two tablets of testimony were in Moses hand as he was coming down the mountain), that Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because of his speaking with Him. 

"So when Aaron and all the sons of Israel saw Moses, behold the skin of his face shone, and they were afraid to come near him." Exodus 34:27:30

1.   Set aside a quiet hour in a place where you can be sure you are not going to be interrupted.

2.   Have your Bible with you.

3.   Have at least four sheets of paper with you and a writing implement.  (I suggest a few more, just in case.)

4.   Now use the time to consider those you've known or met who love the Lord Jesus Christ who have contributed directly to your life in Christ and write each of those names down on the first piece of paper. 

5.   After you've made your list, circle three..three who have been especially significant in your life personally. 

6.   Close your eyes, imagine each one.  Try to remember the special quality God has given them...it is sort an unmistakable glow - like a "heavenly pollen" that ensure you grow.

7.   Take time to search your Bible for three special verses, one especially for each of these individuals.

8.   Then write out a prayer of thanksgiving for each one of them and write out the Bible verse(s) there.

9.   After you have finished (and if you need more than one page to express your thanks, keep writing. 

10.       Then, write at the bottom of each page:  "This is for you to keep in your Bible to remind you of your contribution to my life."

11.       If you are so brave or inclined mail a copy of your words to them. 

12.       God planted that glow in them just for you.  Ask God to let you glow for another.

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

(( Please remember to send me prayer updates. ))

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

• •             Jan - Jan went to the Doctor yesterday.  They confirmed she will lose the sight in her eye as the Retina has totally detached.  It is too dangerous and fruitless to do any more surgery.  She has been so thankful and grateful for all those praying for her. She is now accepting that she will be blind in one eye.  She lives alone and lost her husband to cancer a few years ago.  Thank God she is a child of the King!
• •             Claudio - diagnosed with liver cancer had a heart attack last week, it seems likely from the cancer meds.  Please pray for him and his health carers to be compassionate and wise.  Pray for Elea, his wife, as she holds his hand through this --that she has strength and hope.
• •             Scott (in the USA) recently single father who must now care for his children alone; and that this situation will help his heart melt in awareness of the Lord's love for him.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

URGENT!! NEW UPDATE - Ambassadors for Christ

• Philippines - This story will fall off the news radar, but the growing unrest and danger is just beginning.  Please pray for our friends and tireless servants of the Lord in the Ambassadors for Christ ministry (see below) URGENTLY need your prayers.  Their world is being turned upside down with ISIS terrorists and fighting breaking out in many places near them.  Their lives are in danger at every turn now because of their service to Christ! 
•  
• •             Isaias and Judith - have served the body by tirelessly discipling many.  Pray our Father continues to keep them strong and safe and that they find balance for their lives and health.
• •             Judith , with her tireless women's ministry continues to grow stronger from her back problems.  Please pray for her faithfulness with her physical therapy. 
• •             Isaias must rest and prepare for his part in his extensive travel to lead meetings throughout the land. 
• •             Edna Losbanes - wife of Staff Evangelist, Isachar Losbanes, continues to strengthen after a stroke the end of 2016. 
• •             These wonderful individuals 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".

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

• •             UPDATE - Adrian Stokes –His cancer (multiple myelomas) is not responding to the meds although there are no new tumours.  His pain is constant, even dulled with medication.  Please pray for him.  Toby, his little dog, is beside him again.  Amazingly, he is filled with a calmness and that strange peace that passes understanding that only Jesus precious ones grow into.  He humbles me every time I talk with him and brings me to tears for his love of the Lord!   
• •             Thank our Father for Shane and Carol, his wife (who returned safely last week).  Pray they will have Jesus' heart for Adrian and continued strength and the time to help him.  Pray Stewart McClelland, (a retired pastor) will be there with Adrian soon.
• •             Fin had his first of two surgeries this last week.  Pray for his full recovery and that his second surgery goes smoothly.   Pray for his patience and his resolved to do what the doctors have advised him.  Pray also for Deborah, his friend that her work slows down enough that she can watch over Fin a bit more.
• •             My brother, Tim - Weather is improving and it is so much easier for him to breathe right now with his COPD (cardio-obstructive pulmonary disease).  Pray for his strength, wisdom and health.  Pray also for Barb, his wife, who supports and cares for him. 
• •             Liriel - chronically ill and often in pain.  Pray for her comfort and that she can find some joy in each day.
• •             L. Mel - not sleeping and worried about a physical problem.  Please pray for her to rest and seek the peace of the Lord.
• •             John (stroke survivor) reached a recovery plateau.  Trying to release some responsibilities of managing his big farm and has agreed to talk to a specialist about "keeping the farm in the family and the family on the farm" His sleep apnea is well controlled with a CPAP machine. Recently started insulin to replace meds that weren't effective any more. Still needs to take a more active personal role in his health.
• •             Adrian (Patti's 5-1/2-year-old grandson) with serious behaviour problems (regularly removed from Preschool classes for safety of other children).  Pray for parents, teachers, doctors and Adrian.
• •             Julia (Patti's daughter) battling depression from lingering concussion symptoms. Still needs to get proper rest and therapy.  Very difficult with full-time teaching job and five children (one is Adrian above), even with husband's help. Pray she rededicates her life to Christ - she is trying to do all herself, not relying on Him anymore...
• •             Aunt Donna - (Doris' sister, age 84) has dementia. Please pray for her daughters for guidance in her care. Daughters report she is worse when stressed, but sometimes on phone calls she seems completely lucid and normal!

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

• •             Robin Hopcroft - her brother asks we pray for her safety, that she learns of and understands the saving grace of Jesus and that her life becomes filled with the life-changing love of the Lord.
• •             Pray for RS who I had the delightful privilege of sharing the Gospel with.  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.
• •             Jenny - Recently lost her husband and needs comfort, strength and true answers in the arms of the Lord Jesus Christ as so much still needs sorting out. 
• •             Adam - his life is filled with confusion and need.  Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord loves him.
• •             Bible study in Jo's home.  Pray for wisdom of Jo and openness in the women who meet together, especially Angie and Liz.
• •             Toron - (19-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 and father to PS' 11-year-old granddaughter.  Please pray for his salvation.
• •             Sarah - that God continues to work in His mysterious ways in her life and captures her heart. No contact with parents or brother, yet.
• •             DB's father - (84 years) pray 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.

IF YOU ARE A PRAYER WARRIOR - TAKE A LOOK HERE:

• ·        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   

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• •             David R - is thanking and praising God for what the doctors are seeing as unexpected and not possible with the recovery of sight in his one eye and the concern for signs of dementia disappearing at his last check-ups.  Surely the hand of the Lord is not short in any of our lives and still works in ways we cannot understand for our good and His glory!
• •             Careena S - with MS and Lyme's Disease.  Has stopped the meds for Lyme's Disease and is feeling much better after more than a month off them.  Thank you for praying for her.  The Lord has given her a small miracle in answer to your prayers!  How wonderful is our Lord!  She manages a household with husband and five children and two very cute little dogs. 
• •             Meldapilu - hip and knee replacement from accident in October healed well.  Recovering now from a second operation for her knee.  She is slowly getting back to normal and is thankful she will be able to walk!
• •             Doris (my "second mom")- 98-years young, growing stronger every day and sharing the Gospel with vigour!
• •             CK (78 years old stroke survivor) able to drive again! Started on a new medicine and seems to be doing much better mentally!
• •             Patti (daughter of Doris) asthma now controlled - may be seasonal; getting along well with CPAP therapy for sleep apnea! .
• •             BG - his headaches have been diagnosed as a type of mini-strokes.  He needs our prayers to strengthen him and keep him calm.  
• •             Steve/ Fion -  Pray for his wisdom, creativity, strength, more funding for his university.
• •             Raven - continues to strengthen after her long ordeal with cancer.  New cancer meds have given her a more normal life.  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.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

• ·        Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) No word yet about situation after Medicaid stopped providing much-needed home care for her.  Pray for wisdom as Audley cares for his beloved wife.  Pray 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 (he continues to teach), 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, Kathy Notley and their families.
• ·        Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many ways -- for strength, wisdom, protection and the right handling of God's Word.
• ·        Jo and Steve - for their NZ ministries and for reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters. 
• ·        Stu and Jo and their grown children, Laura and Jason - the entire family is involved in full-time ministry in NZ and were just on a mission.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute. 
• ·        Please pray for 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.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

• •             Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to 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. 
• •             Paul - He has not had paying work since 2010.  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. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD

• •             Donald Trump - the President of the USA.  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.  Pray someone helps him understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and that he will have someone to regularly disciple him.  So much depends on it.
• •             London Fire - UPDATE - 57 estimated dead.  The fire that gutted a 24-story block of flats is becoming a flashpoint of unrest and anger.  Please pray for the families who lost loved ones, the ones who are homeless now, the investigators working to discover the reason and the government that will need to find ways to prevent this from happening ever again.
• •             That the Lord's hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who 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.

ONGOING PRAYER

• •             Hans - at home again after nine months of therapy.  Pray he finds gainful employment, Christian companions and leaders wherever he is.
• •             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.

A Snare to Entangle You

"Then God said, 'Behold, I am going to make a covenant.  Before all your people I will perform miracles which have not been produced in all the earth, nor among any of the nations; and ALL the people among whom you live will SEE the working of the Lord, for it is a fearful thing that I am going to perform WITH you.

"'Be sure to observe what I am commanding you this day; behold I am going to drive out the Amorite before you, and the Canaanite, and the Hittite, the Perizzite, the Hivite and the Jebusite.

"'Watch yourself that you make no covenant with the inhabitants of the land into which you are going, lest it become a SNARE in your midst.'" Exodus 34:10-12

This last Sunday one of the pastors of the church I attend talked about sharing something with those around us that will last forever....the true gift that keeps on giving. 

After the Australian Census results were released yesterday it seems the media has made a disproportionate interest in how few now call themselves Christians. 

But then again, they need to see that Jesus Christ in a life actually makes a difference...to be attractive to others in His name is a goal for all of us if we are to be believed and not further marginalised!

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

(( Please remember to send me prayer updates. ))

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

• •             Jan - Jan went to the Doctor yesterday.  They confirmed she will lose the sight in her eye as the Retina has totally detached.  It is too dangerous and fruitless to do any more surgery.  She has been so thankful and grateful for all those praying for her. She is now accepting that she will be blind in one eye.  She lives alone and lost her husband to cancer a few years ago.  Thank God she is a child of the King!
• •             Claudio - diagnosed with liver cancer had a heart attack last week, it seems likely from the cancer meds.  Please pray for him and his health carers to be compassionate and wise.  Pray for Elea, his wife, as she holds his hand through this --that she has strength and hope.
• •             Scott (in the USA) recently single father who must now care for his children alone; and that this situation will help his heart melt in awareness of the Lord's love for him.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

URGENT!! NEW UPDATE - Ambassadors for Christ

• Philippines - This story will fall off the news radar, but the growing unrest and danger is just beginning.  Please pray for our friends and tireless servants of the Lord in the Ambassadors for Christ ministry (see below) URGENTLY need your prayers.  Their world is being turned upside down with ISIS terrorists and fighting breaking out in many places near them.  Their lives are in danger at every turn now because of their service to Christ!  
• •             Isaias and Judith - have served the body by tirelessly discipling many.  Pray our Father continues to keep them strong and safe and that they find balance for their lives and health.
• •             Judith , with her tireless women's ministry continues to grow stronger from her back problems.  Please pray for her faithfulness with her physical therapy. 
• •             Isaias must rest and prepare for his part in his extensive travel to lead meetings throughout the land. 
• •             Edna Losbanes - wife of Staff Evangelist, Isachar Losbanes, continues to strengthen after a stroke the end of 2016. 
• •             These wonderful individuals 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".

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

• •             UPDATE - Adrian Stokes –His cancer (multiple myelomas) is not responding to the meds although there are no new tumours.  His pain is constant, even dulled with medication.  Please pray for him.  Toby, his little dog, is beside him again.  Amazingly, he is filled with a calmness and that strange peace that passes understanding that only Jesus precious ones grow into.  He humbles me every time I talk with him and brings me to tears for his love of the Lord!   
• •             Thank our Father for Shane and Carol, his wife (who returned safely last week).  Pray they will have Jesus' heart for Adrian and continued strength and the time to help him.  Pray Stewart McClelland, (a retired pastor) will be there with Adrian soon.
• •             Fin had his first of two surgeries this last week.  Pray for his full recovery and that his second surgery goes smoothly.   Pray for his patience and his resolved to do what the doctors have advised him.  Pray also for Deborah, his friend that her work slows down enough that she can watch over Fin a bit more.
• •             My brother, Tim - Weather is improving and it is so much easier for him to breathe right now with his COPD (cardio-obstructive pulmonary disease).  Pray for his strength, wisdom and health.  Pray also for Barb, his wife, who supports and cares for him. 
• •             Liriel - chronically ill and often in pain.  Pray for her comfort and that she can find some joy in each day.
• •             L. Mel - not sleeping and worried about a physical problem.  Please pray for her to rest and seek the peace of the Lord.
• •             John (stroke survivor) reached a recovery plateau.  Trying to release some responsibilities of managing his big farm and has agreed to talk to a specialist about "keeping the farm in the family and the family on the farm" His sleep apnea is well controlled with a CPAP machine. Recently started insulin to replace meds that weren't effective any more. Still needs to take a more active personal role in his health.
• •             Adrian (Patti's 5-1/2-year-old grandson) with serious behaviour problems (regularly removed from Preschool classes for safety of other children).  Pray for parents, teachers, doctors and Adrian.
• •             Julia (Patti's daughter) battling depression from lingering concussion symptoms. Still needs to get proper rest and therapy.  Very difficult with full-time teaching job and five children (one is Adrian above), even with husband's help. Pray she rededicates her life to Christ - she is trying to do all herself, not relying on Him anymore...
• •             Aunt Donna - (Doris' sister, age 84) has dementia. Please pray for her daughters for guidance in her care. Daughters report she is worse when stressed, but sometimes on phone calls she seems completely lucid and normal!

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

• •             Robin Hopcroft - her brother asks we pray for her safety, that she learns of and understands the saving grace of Jesus and that her life becomes filled with the life-changing love of the Lord.
• •             Pray for RS who I had the delightful privilege of sharing the Gospel with.  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.
• •             Jenny - Recently lost her husband and needs comfort, strength and true answers in the arms of the Lord Jesus Christ as so much still needs sorting out. 
• •             Adam - his life is filled with confusion and need.  Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord loves him.
• •             Bible study in Jo's home.  Pray for wisdom of Jo and openness in the women who meet together, especially Angie and Liz.
• •             Toron - (19-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 and father to PS' 11-year-old granddaughter.  Please pray for his salvation.
• •             Sarah - that God continues to work in His mysterious ways in her life and captures her heart. No contact with parents or brother, yet.
• •             DB's father - (84 years) pray 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.

IF YOU ARE A PRAYER WARRIOR - TAKE A LOOK HERE:

• ·        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   

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• •             David R - is thanking and praising God for what the doctors are seeing as unexpected and not possible with the recovery of sight in his one eye and the concern for signs of dementia disappearing at his last check-ups.  Surely the hand of the Lord is not short in any of our lives and still works in ways we cannot understand for our good and His glory!
• •             Careena S - with MS and Lyme's Disease.  Has stopped the meds for Lyme's Disease and is feeling much better after more than a month off them.  Thank you for praying for her.  The Lord has given her a small miracle in answer to your prayers!  How wonderful is our Lord!  She manages a household with husband and five children and two very cute little dogs. 
• •             Meldapilu - hip and knee replacement from accident in October healed well.  Recovering now from a second operation for her knee.  She is slowly getting back to normal and is thankful she will be able to walk!
• •             Doris (my "second mom")- 98-years young, growing stronger every day and sharing the Gospel with vigour!
• •             CK (78 years old stroke survivor) able to drive again! Started on a new medicine and seems to be doing much better mentally!
• •             Patti (daughter of Doris) asthma now controlled - may be seasonal; getting along well with CPAP therapy for sleep apnea! .
• •             BG - his headaches have been diagnosed as a type of mini-strokes.  He needs our prayers to strengthen him and keep him calm.  
• •             Steve/ Fion -  Pray for his wisdom, creativity, strength, more funding for his university.
• •             Raven - continues to strengthen after her long ordeal with cancer.  New cancer meds have given her a more normal life.  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.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

• ·        Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) No word yet about situation after Medicaid stopped providing much-needed home care for her.  Pray for wisdom as Audley cares for his beloved wife.  Pray 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 (he continues to teach), 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, Kathy Notley and their families.
• ·        Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many ways -- for strength, wisdom, protection and the right handling of God's Word.
• ·        Jo and Steve - for their NZ ministries and for reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters. 
• ·        Stu and Jo and their grown children, Laura and Jason - the entire family is involved in full-time ministry in NZ and were just on a mission.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute. 
• ·        Please pray for 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.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

• •             Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to 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. 
• •             Paul - He has not had paying work since 2010.  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. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD

• •             Donald Trump - the President of the USA.  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.  Pray someone helps him understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and that he will have someone to regularly disciple him.  So much depends on it.
• •             That the Lord's hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who 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.

ONGOING PRAYER

• •             Hans - at home again after nine months of therapy.  Pray he finds gainful employment, Christian companions and leaders wherever he is.
• •             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.

Just Passing By For...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HxVSSjFndk

For those who have wondered

if you can last through more

or search:  I have a plan for your life

by Tony Evans

"Then Moses said, 'I pray Thee show me Thy glory!'  And He said, 'I Myself will make all My goodness pass before you, and will proclaim the name of the Lord before you; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show compassion on whom I will show compassion.'

"But He said, 'You cannot see My face, for no man can see Me and live!'  Then the Lord said, 'Behold, there is a place by Me, and you shall stand there on the rock; and it will come about, while My glory is passing by,

"that I will put you in the cleft of the rock and cover you with My hand until I have passed by.  Then I will take  My hand away and you shall see My back, but My face shall not be seen.'" Exodus 33:18-23

There was this tree in a fancy-dancy garden.  God said don't eat of it.  Eve said don't even touch it.  Strange when you aren't allowed to do something how important it becomes to do it or see or hear it..like finding some "scientific proof that God exists". 

The world is filled with people looking for proof that Jesus Christ saves sinners and moves hearts to repentant lives...and what do they see? 

Last night on the news in Australia, they focused on the last Census results.  They indicate this country, through immigration, is growing more multi-cultural; how strangely enough this is affecting the percentage of people now "admitting" they are affiliated with the term:  Christian...now only 30%.  When I first came in 1989, it was 55%...and I had come from the USA where there used to be a Christian on every corner. 

When people are looking to see the glory of God's changing power through Jesus Christ's sacrifice, I pray it is easy to see in your life. 

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

(( Please remember to send me prayer updates. ))

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

• •             Jan - Rachael asks us to please pray for her dear friend.  Jan wrote:  "Yesterday was a very bad doctor visit.  Saw a detached retina on ultrasound.  Have choice of multiple surgeries with not much hope of improvement or doing nothing or they may have to eventually remove the eye.  A friend worked wonders and got me in with Baylor for a second opinion next Monday.  Basically, need to know if there are any dangers of doing nothing.  I really need that miracle."
• •             Claudio - diagnosed with liver cancer had a heart attack last week, it seems likely from the cancer meds.  Please pray for him and his health carers to be compassionate and wise.  Pray for Elea, his wife, as she holds his hand through this --that she has strength and hope.
• •             Scott (in the USA) recently single father who must now care for his children alone; and that this situation will help his heart melt in awareness of the Lord's love for him.

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

URGENT!! NEW UPDATE - Ambassadors for Christ

• Philippines - This story will fall off the news radar, but the growing unrest and danger is just beginning.  Please pray for our friends and tireless servants of the Lord in the Ambassadors for Christ ministry (see below) URGENTLY need your prayers.  Their world is being turned upside down with ISIS terrorists and fighting breaking out in many places near them.  Their lives are in danger at every turn now because of their service to Christ! 
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• •             Isaias and Judith - have served the body by tirelessly discipling many.  Pray our Father continues to keep them strong and safe and that they find balance for their lives and health.
• •             Judith , with her tireless women's ministry continues to grow stronger from her back problems.  Please pray for her faithfulness with her physical therapy. 
• •             Isaias must rest and prepare for his part in his extensive travel to lead meetings throughout the land. 
• •             Edna Losbanes - wife of Staff Evangelist, Isachar Losbanes, continues to strengthen after a stroke the end of 2016. 
• •             These wonderful individuals 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".

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

• •             UPDATE - Adrian Stokes –His cancer (multiple myelomas) is not responding although there are no new tumours.  His pain is constant now, even dulled with medication.  Please pray for him.  Toby, his little dog, is beside him again for now.  Amazingly, he is filled with a calmness and that strange peace that passes understanding that only those of the Body who suffer so seem to grow into.  He humbles me every time I talk with him and brings me to tears for his love of the Lord!   
• •             Thank our Father for Shane and Carol, his wife (who returned safely last week).  Pray they will have Jesus' heart for Adrian and continued strength and the time to help him.  Pray Stewart McClelland, (a retired pastor) will be there with Adrian soon.
• •             Fin had his first of two surgeries this last week.  Pray for his full recovery and that his second surgery goes smoothly.   Pray for his patience and his resolved to do what the doctors have advised him.  Pray also for Deborah, his friend that her work slows down enough that she can watch over Fin a bit more.
• •             My brother, Tim - Weather is improving and it is so much easier for him to breathe right now with his COPD (cardio-obstructive pulmonary disease).  Pray for his strength, wisdom and health.  Pray also for Barb, his wife, who supports and cares for him. 
• •             Liriel - chronically ill and often in pain.  Pray for her comfort and that she can find some joy in each day.
• •             L. Mel - not sleeping and worried about a physical problem.  Please pray for her to rest and seek the peace of the Lord.
• •             John (stroke survivor) reached a recovery plateau.  Trying to release some responsibilities of managing his big farm and has agreed to talk to a specialist about "keeping the farm in the family and the family on the farm" His sleep apnea is well controlled with a CPAP machine. Recently started insulin to replace meds that weren't effective any more. Still needs to take a more active personal role in his health.
• •             Adrian (Patti's 5-1/2-year-old grandson) with serious behaviour problems (regularly removed from Preschool classes for safety of other children).  Pray for parents, teachers, doctors and Adrian.
• •             Julia (Patti's daughter) battling depression from lingering concussion symptoms. Still needs to get proper rest and therapy.  Very difficult with full-time teaching job and five children (one is Adrian above), even with husband's help. Pray she rededicates her life to Christ - she is trying to do all herself, not relying on Him anymore...
• •             Aunt Donna - (Doris' sister, age 84) has dementia. Please pray for her daughters for guidance in her care. Daughters report she is worse when stressed, but sometimes on phone calls she seems completely lucid and normal!

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

• •             Robin Hopcroft - her brother asks we pray for her safety, that she learns of and understands the saving grace of Jesus and that her life becomes filled with the life-changing love of the Lord.
• •             Pray for RS who I had the delightful privilege of sharing the Gospel with.  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.
• •             Jenny - Recently lost her husband and needs comfort, strength and true answers in the arms of the Lord Jesus Christ as so much still needs sorting out. 
• •             Adam - his life is filled with confusion and need.  Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord loves him.
• •             Bible study in Jo's home.  Pray for wisdom of Jo and openness in the women who meet together, especially Angie and Liz.
• •             Toron - (19-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 and father to PS' 11-year-old granddaughter.  Please pray for his salvation.
• •             Sarah - that God continues to work in His mysterious ways in her life and captures her heart. No contact with parents or brother, yet.
• •             DB's father - (84 years) pray 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.

IF YOU ARE A PRAYER WARRIOR - TAKE A LOOK HERE:

• ·        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   

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• •             Fires Finally Controlled in Portugal - after 60 confirmed deaths.  Pray for those who have been so valiantly fighting the fires and those who have lost everything.
• •             Hans - hat home again after nine months of therapy.  Pray he finds gainful employment, Christian companions and leaders wherever he is.
• •             David R - is thanking and praising God for what the doctors are seeing as unexpected and not possible with the recovery of sight in his one eye and the concern for signs of dementia disappearing at his last check-ups.  Surely the hand of the Lord is not short in any of our lives and still works in ways we cannot understand for our good and His glory!
• •             Careena S - with MS and Lyme's Disease.  Was able to stop the meds for Lyme's Disease and is feeling much better after nearly a month off them.  Thank you for praying for her.  The Lord has given her a small miracle in answer to your prayers!  How wonderful is our Lord!  She manages a household with husband and five children and two very cute little dogs. 
• •             Meldapilu - hip and knee replacement from accident in October healed well.  Recovering now from a second operation for her knee.  She is slowly getting back to normal and is thankful she will be able to walk!
• •             Doris (my "second mom")- 98-years young, growing stronger every day and sharing the Gospel with vigour!
• •             CK (78 years old stroke survivor) able to drive again! Started on a new medicine and seems to be doing much better mentally!
• •             Patti (daughter of Doris) asthma now controlled - may be seasonal; getting along well with CPAP therapy for sleep apnea! .
• •             BG - his headaches have been diagnosed as a type of mini-strokes.  He needs our prayers to strengthen him and keep him calm.  
• •             Steve/ Fion -  Pray for his wisdom, creativity, strength, more funding for his university.
• •             Raven - continues to strengthen after her long ordeal with cancer.  New cancer meds have given her a more normal life.  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.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

• ·        Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) No word yet about situation after Medicaid stopped providing much-needed home care for her.  Pray for wisdom as Audley cares for his beloved wife.  Pray 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 (he continues to teach), 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, Kathy Notley and their families.
• ·        Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many ways -- for strength, wisdom, protection and the right handling of God's Word.
• ·        Jo and Steve - for their NZ ministries and for reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters. 
• ·        Stu and Jo and their grown children, Laura and Jason - the entire family is involved in full-time ministry in NZ and were just on a mission.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute. 
• ·        Please pray for 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.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

• •             Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to 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. 
• •             Paul - He has not had paying work since 2010.  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. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD

• •             Donald Trump - the President of the USA.  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.  Pray someone helps him understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and that he will have someone to regularly disciple him.  So much depends on it.
• •             London Fire - UPDATE - 57 estimated dead.  The fire that gutted a 24-story block of flats is becoming a flashpoint of unrest and anger.  Please pray for the families who lost loved ones, the ones who are homeless now, the investigators working to discover the reason and the government that will need to find ways to prevent this from happening ever again.
• •             That the Lord's hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who 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.

ONGOING PRAYER

• •             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.