IT'S ALL ABOUT GETTING A PRESENT!

 

Click the image or link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sza4rh1YzsM

or search YouTube for You Raise Me Up by boleyz

 

“Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, without whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. 

 

“And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. 

 

“For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.  For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for a good man someone would dare even to die.  But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

 

“Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.  For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.  And not only this, but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.”  Romans 5:3-11

 

Softly and tenderly, through the tinsel and too much food, Jesus is calling to you.  He is calling to you right now.  He is ready to embrace you as a new creation in His love. 

 

Is it time to trust in Him to deliver on His promise?  There is no greater gift than saving faith.  And the gift has already been fully paid for.  It is up to you to accept it and wrap your life in His Word!

 

Take care, your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene (who prays for you each morning.)

 

PS:  Find my statement of faith:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com (where you will also find a series of beginner Bible studies to share). You can easily find the WeakDay Devotion online by doing a Google search for ‘WeakDay Devotion’.  (Also, there is an android ‘Goggle Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.)

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

·      All who do not know the true meaning of Christmas.

·      All those who will be alone for this Christmas that they will be comforted by our loving Father.

·      Patti – his grateful for your prayers and reports that she is all better now.  This is our first Christmas without Doris.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, continues his immunotherapy and the doctors are managing the pain with medications.  Pray for his strength through the pain and God’s mercy.  Continue to pray for his healthcare providers, his patience and wisdom.  Pray he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 83) who is unwell herself, that their time together will be filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Kim and Elizabeth – Kim recently lost her mom and Elizabeth just lost her father.  This is a painful time of the year for these dear women.  Pray their wounded hearts will be comforted through this time.

·      Isaias and Judith (Ambassadors for Christ the Philippines) – the Philippines has been devastated by constant batterings from typhoons and floods.  Take a moment to visit their new website:  https://afcph.org/ to learn more.  Many believers have lost everything, including worship centres, computer equipment, musical instruments and sound systems.  China’s threat grows.  Pray for the leaders, administrators, workers and teachers.  Pray our Father keep these servants strong, in good health, safe and supported and that they keep a balance in their lives.  They need funds badly now.  Please take a moment to send encouragement to Isaias Catorce, who teaches and leads the groups at icatorce@gmail.com

·      USA – Pray the Lord will demonstrate His power in unexpected and uniting ways during these times of unrest and confusion.  Help hearts settle and rest in Him alone.  Let the truth of God’s Word and ways overcome the drive to destroy our founding, Bible-based values.  For Christ-centre, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.

·      J&R – recently had the privilege of sharing the Gospel with them and would appreciate prayers that God uses His words in their hearts to draw them to Him for Eternity!

·      Kevin and Sandy Currel - (in Melbourne) Kevin has a wonderful ministry in teaching through images and words and has created many Christian resources.  (To learn more:  https://www.kevincurrell.com/ ). He just had another procedure, which looks good and will have the results next week.  Please continue to pray for him, especially that God will supply the funds needed for this extraordinary time.

·      USA President Donald Trump – As Christians it is our responsibility to pray for our leaders and trust that God has a plan for the USA through this man.  If you doubt the importance of his appointment, just look at the baseless antagonism against him. Surely Satan is NOT happy and means to thwart God’s plan.  Pray someone helps President Trump and Melania understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Pray they will both have an insatiable hunger to read God’s Word for themselves.  Pray God sends a Bible-Believing Christian to regularly disciple them in the Truth.  Pray God shuts the mouths of the false prophets who regularly circle around them. 

Pray for those in full-time service

Pray to uphold our Christian leaders – that they never compromise God’s Word, are bold and courageous in the face of evil.  Pray for their wisdom, safety, ingenuity, strength and for their families.

 

·      Peter Frith – The sole Christian chaplain at an Anglicare special hospital.  The work is lonely and challenging.  Pray for his encouragement, hope and that our loving heavenly Father sends another Christian to work alongside Peter.

·      St Marks Anglican Church – Pray God opens the hearts and minds of those who visit and for those who worship there regularly and during this time on-line that their hunger for God’s Word grows.  Pray for strength, wisdom and healing rest for those who serve there, including Simon, Pat, Kathy, Anne, Barry, Jo and their families.

·      Audley M – Pray his health and wisdom and for the effectiveness and growth of his radio ministry (Florida, Virginia, Alabama, Indianapolis) as America hunger for ‘true meat’!

·      Jenny S – Bible teacher at a local Bible school for energy, good health, wisdom and time for reflection.

·      Lachlan – Pray for him as he cares for his three children while he completes his studies to become a Wycliff Bible Translator.

·      Scripture classes in Australian Schools – Although a secular country, God has continued to provide the freedom to hold Scripture classes in schools during regular class hours!  Some resistance is growing.  It is a great hope for Australia.

·      Bible schools and seminaries – in Australia and around the world that they remain true to the Truth of God’s Word in the Bible.

·      Jim and Elaine – Pray for their ministry in New Zealand and Fiji (heavily Muslim).  Pray for their protection and energy.  Grant them time for shared joy as a couple and to see the fruits of their labours.  To learn more about their ministry:  https://tlcwhk.com

·      Doug McIntosh - An invaluable contributor to my love of Bible study.  He was diagnosed several years ago with multiple myelomas and has retired now from full-time ministry.  Please pray for him, his family and the church he has worked so faithfully in – Cornerstone Bible Church in Lilburn Georgia.

·      Buddy and Susan – Pray for their health and their needs as they labour in far north Queensland.  They were one of the first families to welcome me to Australia.  Amazing Christian teachers!

·      Jo and Steve – for their loving example of the Christian life.  May their love flourish under His guidance as they continue their work in New Zealand.

·      Stu and Jo and Laura and Jason (their children) – pray for this devoted and loving family who continue to serve in New Zealand.  Pray for Laura’s husband Joji and for Jason who is studying in the USA.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute for the Lord.

·      Catholic Church and Pope – pray the Pope will grow increasingly hungry and focused on the Word of God and that he always puts Jesus first in his life and decisions. 

Pray for those with ongoing health concerns

Many of us have family, friends and loved ones with fragile health.  Pray God takes special care with them and protects them in practical ways and that the Lord will have mercy on them during this challenging time.

Pray for the World

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE ...

 Click the image or link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8yJ1H0KFpw

or search YouTube for The Innkeeper – John Piper

 

“In those days it occurred that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole Roman Empire should be registered.  This was the first enrollment and it was made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.  And all the people were going to be registered, each to his own city or town. 

 

“And Joseph also went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the town of David which is called Bethlehem because he was the house and family of David.  To be enrolled with Mary, his espoused (married) wife, who was about to become a mother.”  Luke 2:1-5

 

Please listen to the entire story on the video, read by John Piper.  You will be so surprised at the ending.  And then you will want to listen to it once more!  May this Christmas hold more meaning that all those that came before and may the New Year find you drawn even closer to our Lord.

 

Take care, your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene (who prays for you each morning.)

 

PS:  Find my statement of faith:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com (where you will also find a series of beginner Bible studies to share). You can easily find the WeakDay Devotion online by doing a Google search for ‘WeakDay Devotion’.  (Also, there is an android ‘Goggle Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.)

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

·      All who do not know the true meaning of Christmas.

·      All those who will be alone for this Christmas that they will be comforted by our loving Father.

·      Patti – has injured her shoulder.  Her pain continues.  She’s waiting to have an MRI.  Pray for her and for her beloved husband, John, who is having to do all the things Patti usually does.  Pray for her health care providers and that the Lord will hold her through this time in a special way.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, continues his immunotherapy and the doctors are managing with pain with medications.  Pray for his strength through the pain and God’s mercy.  Continue to pray for his healthcare providers, his patience and wisdom.  Pray he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 83) who is unwell herself, that their time together will be filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Kim and Elizabeth – Kim recently lost her mom and Elizabeth just lost her father.  This is a painful time of the year for these dear women.  Pray their wounded hearts will be comforted through this time.

·      Isaias and Judith (Ambassadors for Christ the Philippines) – the Philippines has been devastated by constant batterings from typhoons and floods.  Take a moment to visit their new website:  https://afcph.org/ to learn more.  Many believers have lost everything, including worship centres, computer equipment, musical instruments and sound systems.  China’s threat grows.  Pray for the leaders, administrators, workers and teachers.  Pray our Father keep these servants strong, in good health, safe and supported and that they keep a balance in their lives.  They need funds badly now.  Please take a moment to send encouragement to Isaias Catorce, who teaches and leads the groups at icatorce@gmail.com

·      USA – Pray the Lord will demonstrate His power in unexpected and uniting ways during these times of unrest and confusion.  Help hearts settle and rest in Him alone.  Let the truth of God’s Word and ways overcome the drive to destroy our founding, Bible-based values.  For Christ-centre, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.

·      J&R – recently had the privilege of sharing the Gospel with them and would appreciate prayers that God uses His words in their hearts to draw them to Him for Eternity!

·      Kevin and Sandy Currel - (in Melbourne) Kevin has a wonderful ministry in teaching through images and words and has created many Christian resources.  (To learn more:  https://www.kevincurrell.com/ ). He just had another procedure, which looks good and will have the results next week.  Please continue to pray for him, especially that God will supply the funds needed for this extraordinary time.

·      USA President Donald Trump – As Christians it is our responsibility to pray for our leaders and trust that God has a plan for the USA through this man.  If you doubt the importance of his appointment, just look at the baseless antagonism against him. Surely Satan is NOT happy and means to thwart God’s plan.  Pray someone helps President Trump and Melania understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Pray they will both have an insatiable hunger to read God’s Word for themselves.  Pray God sends a Bible-Believing Christian to regularly disciple them in the Truth.  Pray God shuts the mouths of the false prophets who regularly circle around them.

 

Pray for those in full-time service

Pray to uphold our Christian leaders – that they never compromise God’s Word, are bold and courageous in the face of evil.  Pray for their wisdom, safety, ingenuity, strength and for their families.

Pray for those with ongoing health concerns

Many of us have family, friends and loved ones with fragile health.  Pray God takes special care with them and protects them in practical ways and that the Lord will have mercy on them during this challenging time.

Pray for the World

HOW TO BE FREE

Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

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

or search YouTube for How To Be Free In An Unfree World?

THE FREEDOM VIDEO - Crosspaint

 

God reached out first with His ultimate sacrifice for each of us:

[Jesus teaching] “’And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; that whoever believes may in Him have eternal life.  For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.’” John 3:16

 

We all choose sin over righteousness, even those who look ‘good’:

“but now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction:  for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; -- For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 3:21-24, 6:23

 

We don’t deserve His love and forgiveness, but He loves us so!

“But God being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus, in order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:8-9

 

I don’t know what to do to be saved!

“But what does it say?  ‘The Word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart’ – that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved; for with the heart man believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation, for the Scripture says, ‘Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.’” Romans 10:8-11

 

Take care, your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene (who prays for you each morning.)

 

PS:  Find my statement of faith:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com (where you will also find a series of beginner Bible studies to share). You can easily find the WeakDay Devotion online by doing a Google search for ‘WeakDay Devotion’.  (Also, there is an android ‘Goggle Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.)

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

·      All who do not know the true meaning of Christmas.

• All those who will be alone for this Christmas that they will be comforted by our loving Father.

·      Patti – has injured her shoulder.  Her pain continues.  She’s waiting to have an MRI.  Pray for her and for her beloved husband, John, who is having to do all the things Patti usually does.  Pray for her health care providers and that the Lord will hold her through this time in a special way.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, continues his immunotherapy and the doctors are managing with pain with medications.  Pray for his strength through the pain and God’s mercy.  Continue to pray for his healthcare providers, his patience and wisdom.  Pray he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 83) who is unwell herself, that their time together will be filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Kim and Elizabeth – Kim recently lost her mom and Elizabeth just lost her father.  This is a painful time of the year for these dear women.  Pray their wounded hearts will be comforted through this time.

·      Isaias and Judith (Ambassadors for Christ the Philippines) – the Philippines has been devastated by constant batterings from typhoons and floods.  Take a moment to visit their new website:  https://afcph.org/ to learn more.  Many believers have lost everything, including worship centres, computer equipment, musical instruments and sound systems.  China’s threat grows.  Pray for the leaders, administrators, workers and teachers.  Pray our Father keep these servants strong, in good health, safe and supported and that they keep a balance in their lives.  They need funds badly now.  Please take a moment to send encouragement to Isaias Catorce, who teaches and leads the groups at icatorce@gmail.com

·      USA – Pray the Lord will demonstrate His power in unexpected and uniting ways during these times of unrest and confusion.  Help hearts settle and rest in Him alone.  Let the truth of God’s Word and ways overcome the drive to destroy our founding, Bible-based values.  For Christ-centre, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.

·      J&R – recently had the privilege of sharing the Gospel with them and would appreciate prayers that God uses His words in their hearts to draw them to Him for Eternity!

·      Kevin and Sandy Currel - (in Melbourne) Kevin has a wonderful ministry in teaching through images and words and has created many Christian resources.  (To learn more:  https://www.kevincurrell.com/ ). He just had another procedure, which looks good and will have the results next week.  Please continue to pray for him, especially that God will supply the funds needed for this extraordinary time.

·      USA President Donald Trump – As Christians it is our responsibility to pray for our leaders and trust that God has a plan for the USA through this man.  If you doubt the importance of his appointment, just look at the baseless antagonism against him. Surely Satan is NOT happy and means to thwart God’s plan.  Pray someone helps President Trump and Melania understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Pray they will both have an insatiable hunger to read God’s Word for themselves.  Pray God sends a Bible-Believing Christian to regularly disciple them in the Truth.  Pray God shuts the mouths of the false prophets who regularly circle around them. 

Pray for those in full-time service

Pray to uphold our Christian leaders – that they never compromise God’s Word, are bold and courageous in the face of evil.  Pray for their wisdom, safety, ingenuity, strength and for their families.

Pray for those with ongoing health concerns

Many of us have family, friends and loved ones with fragile health.  Pray God takes special care with them and protects them in practical ways and that the Lord will have mercy on them during this challenging time.

Pray for the World

WEAKEND ASSIGNMENT - SAME OLD, SAME OLD!

 

 Click on the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kf74n8kiD1M

Matthew 6:9–13, Part 1

Your Kingdom Come // The Lord's Prayer

Desiring God – by John Piper

 

[Jesus teaching] “’Pray, then, in this way:  ‘Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name.  Thy kingdom come.  Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 

 

“’Give us this day our daily bread.  And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.  And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.  Amen.’”  Matthew 6:9-13

 

For this WeakEnd Assignment, watch the video lesson above.  Then find that quiet hour, bring your Bible, spiritual notebook, a writing implement and a refreshment.  Pray for memories and for insights that will help you comment on these two paragraphs from Annie Dillard in Holy the Firm.

 

“There is one church here, so I go to it.  On Sunday mornings I quit the house and wander down the hill to the white frame church in the fir trees.  On a big Sunday there might be twenty of us there; often I am the only person under sixty, and feel as though I’m on an archaeological tour of Soviet Russia.  The members are of mixed denominations; the minister is a Congregationalist, and wears a white shirt.  The man knows God.

 

“Once, in the middle of the long pastoral prayer of intercession for the whole world – for the gift of wisdom to its leaders, for hope and mercy to the grieving and pained, succour to the oppressed, and God’s grace to all – in the middle of this he stopped, and burst out, ‘Lord, we bring You these same petitions every week!’  After a shocked pause, he continued reading the prayer.  Because of this, I like him very much.”

 

1.    Then write your own thoughts on the times you have prayed for something and waited, in what seemed pointless hope, and then how -- looking back -- God fulfilled that prayer in His amazing way. 

2.    What sustains you during the times of delay?

 

PPS:  Find my statement of faith:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com (where you will also find a series of beginner Bible studies to share). You can easily find the WeakDay Devotion online by doing a Google search for ‘WeakDay Devotion’.  (Also, there is an android ‘Goggle Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.)

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

·      Patti – has injured her shoulder.  Her pain continues.  She’s waiting to have an MRI.  Pray for her and for her beloved husband, John, who is having to do all the things Patti usually does.  Pray for her health care providers and that the Lord will hold her through this time in a special way.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, continues his immunotherapy and the doctors are managing with pain with medications.  Pray for his strength through the pain and God’s mercy.  Continue to pray for his healthcare providers, his patience and wisdom.  Pray he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 83) who is unwell herself, that their time together will be filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Kim and Elizabeth – Kim recently lost her mom and Elizabeth just lost her father.  This is a painful time of the year for these dear women.  Pray their wounded hearts will be comforted through this time.

·      Isaias and Judith (Ambassadors for Christ the Philippines) – the Philippines has been devastated by constant batterings from typhoons and floods.  Take a moment to visit their new website:  https://afcph.org/ to learn more.  Many believers have lost everything, including worship centres, computer equipment, musical instruments and sound systems.  China’s threat grows.  Pray for the leaders, administrators, workers and teachers.  Pray our Father keep these servants strong, in good health, safe and supported and that they keep a balance in their lives.  They need funds badly now.  Please take a moment to send encouragement to Isaias Catorce, who teaches and leads the groups at icatorce@gmail.com

·      USA – Pray the Lord will demonstrate His power in unexpected and uniting ways during these times of unrest and confusion.  Help hearts settle and rest in Him alone.  Let the truth of God’s Word and ways overcome the drive to destroy our founding, Bible-based values.  For Christ-centre, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.

·      J&R – recently had the privilege of sharing the Gospel with them and would appreciate prayers that God uses His words in their hearts to draw them to Him for Eternity!

·      Kevin and Sandy Currel - (in Melbourne) Kevin has a wonderful ministry in teaching through images and words and has created many Christian resources.  (To learn more:  https://www.kevincurrell.com/ ). He just had another procedure, which looks good and will have the results next week.  Please continue to pray for him, especially that God will supply the funds needed for this extraordinary time.

·      USA President Donald Trump – As Christians it is our responsibility to pray for our leaders and trust that God has a plan for the USA through this man.  If you doubt the importance of his appointment, just look at the baseless antagonism against him. Surely Satan is NOT happy and means to thwart God’s plan.  Pray someone helps President Trump and Melania understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Pray they will both have an insatiable hunger to read God’s Word for themselves.  Pray God sends a Bible-Believing Christian to regularly disciple them in the Truth.  Pray God shuts the mouths of the false prophets who regularly circle around them.

 

Pray for those in full-time service

Pray to uphold our Christian leaders – that they never compromise God’s Word, are bold and courageous in the face of evil.  Pray for their wisdom, safety, ingenuity, strength and for their families.

Pray for those with ongoing health concerns

Many of us have family, friends and loved ones with fragile health.  Pray God takes special care with them and protects them in practical ways and that the Lord will have mercy on them during this challenging time.

Pray for the World

FROM THE BOTTOM UP

 

Parting of the Red Sea so the

Arc of the Covenant could be carried over

Click on the picture or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKRUWHHeL2o

or search YouTube for

Way Maker - Michael W. Smith

 

“And after forty years had passed, an angel appeared to him [Moses] in the wilderness of Mount Sinai, in the flame of a burning thorn bush.  And when Moses saw it, he began to marvel at the sight; and as he approached to look more closely, there came the voice of the Lord; ‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob.’ 

 

“And Moses shook with fear and would not venture to look.  But the Lord said to him, ‘Take off the sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.  I have certainly seen the oppression of My people in Egypt and have heard their groans and I have come down to deliver them; come now, and I will send you to Egypt.’

 

“This Moses whom they disowned, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’  is the one whom God sent to be both a ruler and a deliver with the help of the angel who appeared to him in the thorn bush.  This man led them out, performing wonders and signs in the land of Egypt and in the Red Sea in the wilderness for forty years.  This is the Moses who said to the sons of Israel, ‘God shall raise up for you, a prophet like me from your brethren.” Acts 7:30-37

 

Perhaps the most important point in Scripture is that God’s ‘goal’ is not to overpower skeptics with flashy miracles.  That would be easy for Him.  He seeks to reconcile all men to Him to restore those original ‘walks in the Garden’…to love and be loved.  His plan was never to create robots who would simply obey or to overwhelm us with the force of fear to walk with Him

 

From the covenant with His chosen people, He hovered protectively over them - to when His beloved Son taught the will of God ‘from the bottom up’ and to today as His Holy Spirit fills us with His literal and awesome presence.  His plan unfolds in perfection.  And we enjoy the privilege God has chosen for us – the vital mission of sharing His Truth with those around us.

 

Take care, your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene (who prays for you each morning).

 

PPS:  Find my statement of faith:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com (where you will also find a series of beginner Bible studies to share). You can easily find the WeakDay Devotion online by doing a Google search for ‘WeakDay Devotion’.  (Also, there is an android ‘Goggle Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.)

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

·      Patti – has injured her shoulder.  Her pain continues.  She’s waiting to have an MRI.  Pray for her and for her beloved husband, John, who is having to do all the things Patti usually does.  Pray for her health care providers and that the Lord will hold her through this time in a special way.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, continues his immunotherapy and the doctors are managing with pain with medications.  Pray for his strength through the pain and God’s mercy.  Continue to pray for his healthcare providers, his patience and wisdom.  Pray he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 83) who is unwell herself, that their time together will be filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Kim and Elizabeth – Kim recently lost her mom and Elizabeth just lost her father.  This is a painful time of the year for these dear women.  Pray their wounded hearts will be comforted through this time.

·      Isaias and Judith (Ambassadors for Christ the Philippines) – the Philippines has been devastated by constant batterings from typhoons and floods.  Take a moment to visit their new website:  https://afcph.org/ to learn more.  Many believers have lost everything, including worship centres, computer equipment, musical instruments and sound systems.  China’s threat grows.  Pray for the leaders, administrators, workers and teachers.  Pray our Father keep these servants strong, in good health, safe and supported and that they keep a balance in their lives.  They need funds badly now.  Please take a moment to send encouragement to Isaias Catorce, who teaches and leads the groups at icatorce@gmail.com

·      USA – Pray the Lord will demonstrate His power in unexpected and uniting ways during these times of unrest and confusion.  Help hearts settle and rest in Him alone.  Let the truth of God’s Word and ways overcome the drive to destroy our founding, Bible-based values.  For Christ-centre, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.

·      J&R – recently had the privilege of sharing the Gospel with them and would appreciate prayers that God uses His words in their hearts to draw them to Him for Eternity!

·      Kevin and Sandy Currel - (in Melbourne) Kevin has a wonderful ministry in teaching through images and words and has created many Christian resources.  (To learn more:  https://www.kevincurrell.com/ ). He just had another procedure, which looks good and will have the results next week.  Please continue to pray for him, especially that God will supply the funds needed for this extraordinary time.

·      USA President Donald Trump – As Christians it is our responsibility to pray for our leaders and trust that God has a plan for the USA through this man.  If you doubt the importance of his appointment, just look at the baseless antagonism against him. Surely Satan is NOT happy and means to thwart God’s plan.  Pray someone helps President Trump and Melania understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Pray they will both have an insatiable hunger to read God’s Word for themselves.  Pray God sends a Bible-Believing Christian to regularly disciple them in the Truth.  Pray God shuts the mouths of the false prophets who regularly circle around them.

 

Pray for those in full-time service

Pray to uphold our Christian leaders – that they never compromise God’s Word, are bold and courageous in the face of evil.  Pray for their wisdom, safety, ingenuity, strength and for their families.

Pray for those with ongoing health concerns

Many of us have family, friends and loved ones with fragile health.  Pray God takes special care with them and protects them in practical ways and that the Lord will have mercy on them during this challenging time.

Pray for the World

SEEING IN THE DARK

  

Click the picture or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8866hTtH-Y

or search David Phelps

Your Time Will Come

 

[The angel speaks to John] “’Here is the mind which has wisdom.  The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sits, and they are seven kings; five have fallen, one is, the other has not yet come; and when he comes, he must remain a little while.  And the beast which was and is not, is himself also an eighth, and is one of the seven, and he goes to destruction. 

 

“’And the ten horns which you saw are ten kings, who have not yet received a kingdom, but they receive authority as kings with the beast for one hour.  These have one purpose, and they give their power and authority to the beast.

 

“These will wage war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful.’  And he said to me, ‘The waters which you saw where the harlot sits, are peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues. 

 

“’And the ten horns which you saw, and the beast, these will hate the harlot and will eat her flesh and will burn her up with fire.  For God has put it in their hearts to execute His purpose by having a common purpose, and by giving their kingdom to the beast, until the words of God should be fulfilled.’” Revelation 17:9-17

 

‘I said to my soul, be still, and let the dark come upon you

Which shall be the darkness of God …

I said to my soul, be still, and wait without hope

For hope would be hope for the wrong thing; wait without love

For love would be love of the wrong thing; there is yet faith

But the faith and the love and the hope are all in the waiting. 

            From T. S. Eliot, ‘Easter Coker’

 

Take care, your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene (who prays for you each morning).

PPS:  Find my statement of faith:  https://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com (where you will also find a series of beginner Bible studies to share). You can easily find the WeakDay Devotion online by doing a Google search for ‘WeakDay Devotion’.  (Also, there is an android ‘Goggle Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.)

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

·      Patti – has injured her shoulder, is in severe pain and will be having an MRI soon.  Pray for her as she waits for the appointment and for her beloved husband, John, who is having to do all the things Patti usually does.  Pray for her health care providers and that the Lord will hold her through this time in a special way.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, with cancer has been having serious heart pain for the last two days.  His monthly immunotherapy was scheduled for tomorrow.  The doctor decided to try to manage the pain until he goes to the hospital when they can investigate the source.  Pray for strength through the pain and God’s mercy.  Continue to pray for his healthcare providers, his patience and wisdom.  Pray he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 83) who is unwell herself, that their time together will be filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Isaias and Judith (Ambassadors for Christ the Philippines) – the Philippines has been devastated by constant batterings from typhoons and floods.  Take a moment to visit their new website:  https://afcph.org/ to learn more.  Many believers have lost everything, including worship centres, computer equipment, musical instruments and sound systems.  China’s threat grows.  Pray for the leaders, administrators, workers and teachers.  Pray our Father keep these servants strong, in good health, safe and supported and that they keep a balance in their lives.  They need funds badly now.  Please take a moment to send encouragement to Isaias Catorce, who teaches and leads the groups at icatorce@gmail.com

·      USA – Pray the Lord will demonstrate His power in unexpected and uniting ways during these times of unrest and confusion.  Help hearts settle and rest in Him alone.  Let the truth of God’s Word and ways overcome the drive to destroy our founding, Bible-based values.  For Christ-centre, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.

·      J&R – recently had the privilege of sharing the Gospel with them and would appreciate prayers that God uses His words in their hearts to draw them to Him for Eternity!

·      Kevin and Sandy Currel - (in Melbourne) Kevin has a wonderful ministry in teaching through images and words and has created many Christian resources.  (To learn more:  https://www.kevincurrell.com/ ). He just had another procedure, which looks good and will have the results next week.  Please continue to pray for him, especially that God will supply the funds needed for this extraordinary time.

·      Tracey – healing from a fall where she broke four ribs.  Pray she will be patient and that the pain will be easily managed.

·      USA President Donald Trump – As Christians it is our responsibility to pray for our leaders and trust that God has a plan for the USA through this man.  If you doubt the importance of his appointment, just look at the baseless antagonism against him. Surely Satan is NOT happy and means to thwart God’s plan.  Pray someone helps President Trump and Melania understand the true meaning of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  Pray they will both have an insatiable hunger to read God’s Word for themselves.  Pray God sends a Bible-Believing Christian to regularly disciple them in the Truth.  Pray God shuts the mouths of the false prophets who regularly circle around them.

 

Pray for those in full-time service

Pray for those Pray to uphold our Christian leaders – that they never compromise God’s Word, are bold and courageous in the face of evil.  Pray for their wisdom, safety, ingenuity, strength and for their families.

 Pray for those with ongoing health concerns

Many of us have family, friends and loved ones with fragile health.  Pray God takes special care with them and protects them in practical ways and that the Lord will have mercy on them during this challenging time.

Pray for the World