Contempt for Truth

Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dd0LpVe3Lkk

or search YouTube for ‘9. Do not Bear False Witness’

by PragerU

 

“’You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.’” Exodus 20:16

 

“He said to Him, ‘Which ones?’  And Jesus said, ‘You shall not commit murder.  You shall not commit adultery.  You shall not steal.  You shall not bear false witness.’” Matthew 19:18

 

“’You know the commandments, ‘Do not murder.  Do not commit adultery.  Do not steal.  Do not bear false witness.  Do not defraud.  Honour your father and mother.’” Mark 10:19

 

“’You know the commandments, ‘Do not commit adultery.  Do not murder.  Do not steal.  Do not bear false witness.  Honour your father and mother.’” Luke 18:20

 

There used to be a TV series called ‘Mork and Mindy’.  Robin Williams played Mork, a Martian who was stuck on earth for some reason.  He had a strange and surprising characteristic:  he could not lie!  

Now that doesn’t seem to be much of a problem, but it was fuel for many surprising situations where Mork, when asked for his opinion, would tell the truth and embarrass everyone around him.  His delightful innocence of a common problem that has permeated every corner of our world and our daily lives reminded us all of how easy it is to stretch the truth or tell a little, 'harmless' white lie. 

 

In the Bible (Exodus 19:18-19), telling lies, bearing false witness could result in the death of the person who lied!  Today, we just lie without even considering what the consequences might be.  

Yet to lie was, is and always will be a foundational sin we all engage in to some degree, consciously or unconsciously -- sometimes even in our thoughts. 

 

Take care with love, especially His, Darlene (who still prays for you each day)

 

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 ‘Google Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.).  For the books, go Amazon books.  

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS (any updates?)

 

·      Audley Mclean, my dear friend, and Millicent Thomas will be saying their wedding vows this Sunday.  They ask for your prayers as they enter a new chapter of their lives.

·      Annette’s Dad – My precious friend, Annette and her husband, Lyle have arrived home and her Dad has gone to hospital and is back at home now.  He had an accident and brain bleed.  Prepare the hearts of those who love her father for this challenging time and pray for his caregivers as he heals and strengthens.

·      Marci – a special childhood friend and the editor of the books I’ve published from this series.  She fell and is healing.  Pray she goes slower next time.

·      The horror of war in Ukraine – Please pray for the people caught in the cross-fires of this war, and especially for strength for the Christians of this country and that God’s will is done for His glory and that He sends help in unexpected ways to save Ukraine and our world from the potential devastation of a third world war.

·      Unprecedented Floods in New South Wales, Australia - the rains have begun once more and are forecast to continue for the next six to eight days.  Clean up had begun to deal with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those  who have lost loved ones, for those who have lost their homes and all their possessions, for those providing care and support of those affected. 

·      Simon and Tamara and their children – Simon (my pastor) has been chosen to support the Lord’s work in a new, more far-reaching way.  Help them prepare throughout this year for the new challenges that await them.  And when Simon takes up the new role, let him fill it with the same grace, devotion and love he has consistently demonstrated while at St. Marks.  Strengthen the congregation to rejoice with them and their decision.

·      Elina –  has asked for prayer.  Please hold her us as she struggles through some personal issues and is feeling overwhelmed. 

·      Ray Jr. –Pray the Lord holds Ray Jr. (and his brothers) closely as they deal with the practical matters after the loss of their father and comfort their hearts.  Give Kathy (Ray’s wife) strength and wisdom as she supports him during this time.

·      Christine – give her strength as she journeys to heart-healing.

·      Family of Eric – Eric at 52 died suddenly leaving his 47-year-old wife and three girls (ages 16, 19 and 23).  Pray the Lord comforts the family through this time of mourning.  Pray for their wisdom and that Go-d will send trustworthy, honourable, Bible-based councilors for the many decisions that now must be made.

·      Grant’s brother – seems to be stable now after doctors put a shunt in his skull to drain fluid from around the brain to reduce pressure. Pray for his health carers as they continue to help him.

·      Peyton - eldest granddaughter of Jeff and Rachael – now in her second year of college.  Please continue to pray for her that she does well, makes good decisions and continues having a good relationship with the Lord. 

·      Thanksgiving - Adam – he has found a job but continues to need encouragement and clear guidance from the Lord about his future and to know without doubt the depth of the Lord’s extravagant forgiveness.  Continue to pray for the strength of his wife that she will love and support him as he continues to heal and strengthen.

·      Barb – my brother’s faithful and kind wife.  Thank you for praying for her.  She needs prayers to sustain her and protect her health and energy during this time of additional stress and challenge at work.

·      Sophie – three-year old daughter of a friend.  She is chronically unwell and frail.  Please pray for her, her parents and health carers to find ways to manage the symptoms and heal her.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, the cancer seems to be stable for now.  Pray for his financial situation to improve and for his ongoing strength through the pain when it comes.  Pray for his patience and God’s mercy.  Pray for his healthcare providers and that he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 84) who is also unwell -- that their time together is filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Callilah - a lost child.  Pray the Lord will capture her heart.

 

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

Adultery

 

 Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0-epfgG7lI

or search YouTube for ‘7. Do Not Commit Adultery’

by PragerU

 

“’You shall not commit adultery.’” Exodus 20:14

 

“’You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery’; but I say to you that everyone who looks on a woman to lust for her has committed adultery with her steady in his heart.’” Matthew 5:27-28

 

“He said to Him, ‘Which ones?’  And Jesus said, ‘You shall not commit murder.  You shall not commit adultery.  You shall not steal.  You shall not bear false witness.’” Matthew 19:18

 

“And He said to them, ‘Whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her; and if she herself divorces her husband and marries another man, she is committing adultery.

 

“’…You know the commandments.  ‘Do not murder.  Do not commit adultery.  Do not steal.  Do not bear false witness.  Do not defraud.  Honour your father and mother.’” Mark 10:11-12, 19

 

“’Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery; and he who marries one who is divorced from a husband commits adultery.’” Luke 16:18

 

“’You know the commandments, ‘Do not commit adultery.  Do not murder.  Do not steal.  Do not bear false witness.  Honour your father and mother.’” Luke 18:20

 

Jesus seemed to place a lot of emphasis on the seventh commandment in Scripture.  God created all of us with a longing to be loved and to love.  The gift of love fulfils us, yet it comes with the responsibility to handle it with honour. 

 

Nevertheless, Jesus made it very clear that all of us break this commandment in thought, word or deed.  Like all the commandments, our failures remind and convict us of our sin.  And sin drives us either to despair or to the cross because only Jesus can forgive us because of His sacrifice unto death and resurrection. 

 

Take care with love, especially His, Darlene (who still prays for you each day)

 

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 ‘Google Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.).  For the books, go Amazon books.  

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS (any updates?)

 

·      Audley Mclean, my dear friend, and Millicent Thomas will be saying their wedding vows this Sunday.  They ask for your prayers as they enter a new chapter of their lives.

·      Annette’s Dad – My precious friend, Annette and her husband, Lyle have arrived home and her Dad has gone to hospital and is back at home now.  He had an accident and brain bleed.  Prepare the hearts of those who love her father for this challenging time and pray for his caregivers as he heals and strengthens.

·      Marci – a special childhood friend and the editor of the books I’ve published from this series.  She fell and is healing.  Pray she goes slower next time.

·      The horror of war in Ukraine – Please pray for the people caught in the cross-fires of this war, and especially for strength for the Christians of this country and that God’s will is done for His glory and that He sends help in unexpected ways to save Ukraine and our world from the potential devastation of a third world war.

·      Unprecedented Floods in New South Wales, Australia - the rains have begun once more and are forecast to continue for the next six to eight days.  Clean up had begun to deal with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those  who have lost loved ones, for those who have lost their homes and all their possessions, for those providing care and support of those affected. 

·      Simon and Tamara and their children – Simon (my pastor) has been chosen to support the Lord’s work in a new, more far-reaching way.  Help them prepare throughout this year for the new challenges that await them.  And when Simon takes up the new role, let him fill it with the same grace, devotion and love he has consistently demonstrated while at St. Marks.  Strengthen the congregation to rejoice with them and their decision.

·      Elina –  has asked for prayer.  Please hold her us as she struggles through some personal issues and is feeling overwhelmed. 

·      Ray Jr. –Pray the Lord holds Ray Jr. (and his brothers) closely as they deal with the practical matters after the loss of their father and comfort their hearts.  Give Kathy (Ray’s wife) strength and wisdom as she supports him during this time.

·      Christine – give her strength as she journeys to heart-healing.

·      Family of Eric – Eric at 52 died suddenly leaving his 47-year-old wife and three girls (ages 16, 19 and 23).  Pray the Lord comforts the family through this time of mourning.  Pray for their wisdom and that Go-d will send trustworthy, honourable, Bible-based councilors for the many decisions that now must be made.

·      Grant’s brother – seems to be stable now after doctors put a shunt in his skull to drain fluid from around the brain to reduce pressure. Pray for his health carers as they continue to help him.

·      Peyton - eldest granddaughter of Jeff and Rachael – now in her second year of college.  Please continue to pray for her that she does well, makes good decisions and continues having a good relationship with the Lord. 

·      Thanksgiving - Adam – he has found a job but continues to need encouragement and clear guidance from the Lord about his future and to know without doubt the depth of the Lord’s extravagant forgiveness.  Continue to pray for the strength of his wife that she will love and support him as he continues to heal and strengthen.

·      Barb – my brother’s faithful and kind wife.  Thank you for praying for her.  She needs prayers to sustain her and protect her health and energy during this time of additional stress and challenge at work.

·      Sophie – three-year old daughter of a friend.  She is chronically unwell and frail.  Please pray for her, her parents and health carers to find ways to manage the symptoms and heal her.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, the cancer seems to be stable for now.  Pray for his financial situation to improve and for his ongoing strength through the pain when it comes.  Pray for his patience and God’s mercy.  Pray for his healthcare providers and that he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 84) who is also unwell -- that their time together is filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Callilah - a lost child.  Pray the Lord will capture her heart.

 

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

Quintuple Commandments

 

Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://youtu.be/fhmntQwLDrM

or search YouTube for ‘The 10 Commandments List

What are the Ten Commandments in the Bible by Bible Munch

“’Honour your father and your mother that your days may be prolonged in the land which the Lord your God gives you.  You shall not murder.  You shall not commit adultery.  You shall not steal.  You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.’”  Exodus 20:12-16

 

“’You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not commit murder’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.’  But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever shall say to his brother, ‘Raca [empty headed, good for nothing],’ shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever shall say, ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell…

 

“’You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery’ but I say to you, that everyone who looks on a woman to lust for her has committed adultery with her already in his heart.’” Matthew 5:21-22, 27

 

“He said to Him, ‘Which ones?’  And Jesus said, ‘You shall not commit murder; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; honour your father and mother and you shall you’re your neighbour as yourself.’” Matthew 19:18-19

 

“’You know the commandments, ‘Do not murder.  Do not commit adultery.  Do not steal.  Do not bear false witness.  Do not defraud.  Honour your father and mother’.’” Mark 10:19

 

“’You know the commandments, ‘Do not commit adultery.  Do not murder.  Do not steal.  Do not bear false witness.  Honour your father and mother’.’” Luke 18:20

 

Jesus bunched five commandments together often when questioned by someone who wanted to catch Him out on something or when they wanted to prove their ‘righteousness’ to Jesus. 

 

And He just spoke the words of how common sins that trip us are.  It helps us realise how sinful and without hope we are without accepting Jesus’ gift of eternal salvation through His ultimate sacrifice.  

 

Remember, repetition is always something that should draw our attention as it is a way to emphasise important thoughts.

 

Take care with love, especially His, Darlene (who still prays for you each day)

 

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 ‘Google Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.).  For the books, go Amazon books.  

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS (any updates?)

 

·      Annette’s Dad – My precious friend, Annette and her husband, Lyle have arrived home and her Dad has gone to hospital and is back at home now.  He had an accident and brain bleed.  Prepare the hearts of those who love her father for this challenging time and pray for his caregivers as he heals and strengthens.

·      Marci – a special childhood friend and the editor of the books I’ve published from this series.  She fell and is healing.  Pray she goes slower next time.

·      The horror of war in Ukraine – Please pray for the people caught in the cross-fires of this war, and especially for strength for the Christians of this country and that God’s will is done for His glory and that He sends help in unexpected ways to save Ukraine and our world from the potential devastation of a third world war.

·      Unprecedented Floods in New South Wales, Australia - the rains have begun once more and are forecast to continue for the next six to eight days.  Clean up had begun to deal with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those  who have lost loved ones, for those who have lost their homes and all their possessions, for those providing care and support of those affected. 

·      Simon and Tamara and their children – Simon (my pastor) has been chosen to support the Lord’s work in a new, more far-reaching way.  Help them prepare throughout this year for the new challenges that await them.  And when Simon takes up the new role, let him fill it with the same grace, devotion and love he has consistently demonstrated while at St. Marks.  Strengthen the congregation to rejoice with them and their decision.

·      Elina –  has asked for prayer.  Please hold her us as she struggles through some personal issues and is feeling overwhelmed. 

·      Ray Jr. –Pray the Lord holds Ray Jr. (and his brothers) closely as they deal with the practical matters after the loss of their father and comfort their hearts.  Give Kathy (Ray’s wife) strength and wisdom as she supports him during this time.

·      Christine – give her strength as she journeys to heart-healing.

·      Family of Eric – Eric at 52 died suddenly leaving his 47-year-old wife and three girls (ages 16, 19 and 23).  Pray the Lord comforts the family through this time of mourning.  Pray for their wisdom and that Go-d will send trustworthy, honourable, Bible-based councilors for the many decisions that now must be made.

·      Grant’s brother – seems to be stable now after doctors put a shunt in his skull to drain fluid from around the brain to reduce pressure. Pray for his health carers as they continue to help him.

·      Peyton - eldest granddaughter of Jeff and Rachael – now in her second year of college.  Please continue to pray for her that she does well, makes good decisions and continues having a good relationship with the Lord. 

·      Thanksgiving - Adam – he has found a job but continues to need encouragement and clear guidance from the Lord about his future and to know without doubt the depth of the Lord’s extravagant forgiveness.  Continue to pray for the strength of his wife that she will love and support him as he continues to heal and strengthen.

·      Barb – my brother’s faithful and kind wife.  Thank you for praying for her.  She needs prayers to sustain her and protect her health and energy during this time of additional stress and challenge at work.

·      Sophie – three-year old daughter of a friend.  She is chronically unwell and frail.  Please pray for her, her parents and health carers to find ways to manage the symptoms and heal her.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, the cancer seems to be stable for now.  Pray for his financial situation to improve and for his ongoing strength through the pain when it comes.  Pray for his patience and God’s mercy.  Pray for his healthcare providers and that he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 84) who is also unwell -- that their time together is filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Callilah - a lost child.  Pray the Lord will capture her heart.

 

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

Moms and Dads

 

Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pztaLx5ydwU

or search YouTube for ‘5. Honour Your Father and Mother’

by PragerU

 

“’Honour your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the Lord your God gives you.’” Exodus 20:12

 

“’For God said, ‘Honour your father and mother,’ and, ‘he who speaks evil of father or mother, let him be put to death.  But you say, ‘Whoever shall say to his father or mother, ‘Anything of mine you might have been helped by has been given to God,’ he is not to honour his father or his mother.’  And thus you invalidated the word of God for the sake of your tradition.’” Matthew 15:4-9

 

“’Honour your father and mother; and ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’” Matthew 19:19

 

“’You know the commandments, ‘Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not bear false witness, do not defraud, honour your father and mother.’’” Mark 10:19

 

“’You know the commandments, ‘Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not bear false witness, honour your father and mother.’’” Luke 18:20

 

The commandment to honour your parents is emphasised by holding a reason and blessing for obeying it.  It was often mentioned by Jesus because honouring your parents sometimes seems more difficult than the other commandments. 

 

We have a familiarity with our parents that can easily be taken for granted when God placed them in our lives – for however long – to help us grow increasingly into the image of Jesus.  As parents we may confuse our responsibilities to guide and direct our children.  God had a plan for our parent-children relationships, from the beginning.

 

Take care with love, especially His, Darlene (who still prays for you each day)

 

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 ‘Google Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.).  For the books, go Amazon books.  

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS (any updates?)

 

·      URGENT – Annette’s Dad – My precious friend, Annette and her husband, Lyle have arrived home and her Dad has gone to hospital and is back at home now.  He had an accident and brain bleed.  Prepare the hearts of those who love her father for this challenging time and pray for his caregivers as he heals and strengthens.

·      Marci – a special childhood friend and the editor of the books I’ve published from this series.  She fell and is healing.  Pray she goes slower next time.

·      The horror of war in Ukraine – Please pray for the people caught in the cross-fires of this war, and especially for strength for the Christians of this country and that God’s will is done for His glory and that He sends help in unexpected ways to save Ukraine and our world from the potential devastation of a third world war.

·      Aftermath of Unprecedented Floods in New South Wales, Australia - the rains have begun once more and are forecast to continue for the next six to eight days.  Clean up had begun to deal with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those  who have lost loved ones, for those who have lost their homes and all their possessions, for those providing care and support of those affected. 

·      Simon and Tamara and their children – Simon (my pastor) has been chosen to support the Lord’s work in a new, more far-reaching way.  Help them prepare throughout this year for the new challenges that await them.  And when Simon takes up the new role, let him fill it with the same grace, devotion and love he has consistently demonstrated while at St. Marks.  Strengthen the congregation to rejoice with them and their decision.

·      Elina –  has asked for prayer.  Please hold her us as she struggles through some personal issues and is feeling overwhelmed. 

·      Ray Jr. –Pray the Lord holds Ray Jr. (and his brothers) closely as they deal with the practical matters after the loss of their father and comfort their hearts.  Give Kathy (Ray’s wife) strength and wisdom as she supports him during this time.

·      Christine – give her strength as she journeys to heart-healing.

·      Family of Eric – Eric at 52 died suddenly leaving his 47-year-old wife and three girls (ages 16, 19 and 23).  Pray the Lord comforts the family through this time of mourning.  Pray for their wisdom and that Go-d will send trustworthy, honourable, Bible-based councilors for the many decisions that now must be made.

·      Grant’s brother – seems to be stable now after doctors put a shunt in his skull to drain fluid from around the brain to reduce pressure. Pray for his health carers as they continue to help him.

·      Peyton - eldest granddaughter of Jeff and Rachael – now in her second year of college.  Please continue to pray for her that she does well, makes good decisions and continues having a good relationship with the Lord. 

·      Thanksgiving - Adam – he has found a job but continues to need encouragement and clear guidance from the Lord about his future and to know without doubt the depth of the Lord’s extravagant forgiveness.  Continue to pray for the strength of his wife that she will love and support him as he continues to heal and strengthen.

·      Barb – my brother’s faithful and kind wife.  Thank you for praying for her.  She needs prayers to sustain her and protect her health and energy during this time of additional stress and challenge at work.

·      Sophie – three-year old daughter of a friend.  She is chronically unwell and frail.  Please pray for her, her parents and health carers to find ways to manage the symptoms and heal her.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, the cancer seems to be stable for now.  Pray for his financial situation to improve and for his ongoing strength through the pain when it comes.  Pray for his patience and God’s mercy.  Pray for his healthcare providers and that he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 84) who is also unwell -- that their time together is filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Callilah - a lost child.  Pray the Lord will capture her heart.

 

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: Crouching

 

 Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OG2gMahnAI&t=311s

or search YouTube for ‘Who Was Cain &

Why is He Important to Us?

(Biblical Stories Explained) by Grace Digital Network

 

“Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry?  And why has your countenance fallen?  If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up?  And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.’  And Cain told Abel his brother.  And it came about when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him.” Genesis 3:6-8

 

“For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness.  Therefore what benefit were you then deriving from the things of which you are now ashamed?  For the outcome of those things is death. 

 

“But NOW having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.  For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life.”  Romans 8:20-23

 

“No temptation has overtaken you, but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow  you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it.” I Corinthians 10:13

 

No matter how often you read and study Scripture, there are always new insights to learn.  The beauty of the interlinking of the 66 books of the Bible is what this current series begins to highlight. 

 

To do this we are simply focusing on the verses Jesus quoted from the Old Testament to illustrate His points, and to answer those who imagined they were ‘learned in Scripture’.

 

As we approach Easter, let us all pray to better appreciate the interwoven theme of redemption -- that starts at Genesis 3:6, with the fall of man and God’s initial promise of redemption at Genesis 3:15. 

 

The stories and history within the Bible illustrate man’s innate helplessness in the face of the temptation of sin and the unimaginable patience and compassion of our Almighty Father-God.

 

The WeakEnd Assignment

 

1.    Set aside an hour and place where you will not be disturbed.

2.    Bring your Bible, notebook, writing implement and a refreshment.

3.    Have a way to watch the video above

4.    Settle your heart and pray the Lord opens your eyes to how beautiful and perfect is His story, designed for your good and His glory.

5.    Date a fresh page in your notebook and watch the video, taking notes as you listen.

6.    Review your notes and pray in thanksgiving for what you have learned about your personal dependence on the Lord Jesus Christ, His life, death and resurrection.

 

Take care with love, especially His, Darlene (who still prays for you each day)

 

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 ‘Google Blogger’ app you can download to read them on your phone.  Not sure about Apple.).  For the books, go Amazon books.  

 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS (any updates?)

 

·      URGENT – Annette’s Dad – My precious friend, Annette and her husband, Lyle have arrived home and her Dad has gone to hospital and is back at home now.  He had an accident and brain bleed.  Prepare the hearts of those who love her father for this challenging time and pray for his caregivers as he heals and strengthens.

·      Marci – a special childhood friend and the editor of the books I’ve published from this series.  She fell and is healing.  Pray she goes slower next time.

·      The horror of war in Ukraine – Please pray for the people caught in the cross-fires of this war, and especially for strength for the Christians of this country and that God’s will is done for His glory and that He sends help in unexpected ways to save Ukraine and our world from the potential devastation of a third world war.

·      Aftermath of Unprecedented Floods in New South Wales, Australia - the rains have begun once more and are forecast to continue for the next six to eight days.  Clean up had begun to deal with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those  who have lost loved ones, for those who have lost their homes and all their possessions, for those providing care and support of those affected. 

·      Simon and Tamara and their children – Simon (my pastor) has been chosen to support the Lord’s work in a new, more far-reaching way.  Help them prepare throughout this year for the new challenges that await them.  And when Simon takes up the new role, let him fill it with the same grace, devotion and love he has consistently demonstrated while at St. Marks.  Strengthen the congregation to rejoice with them and their decision.

·      Elina –  has asked for prayer.  Please hold her us as she struggles through some personal issues and is feeling overwhelmed. 

·      Ray Jr. –Pray the Lord holds Ray Jr. (and his brothers) closely as they deal with the practical matters after the loss of their father and comfort their hearts.  Give Kathy (Ray’s wife) strength and wisdom as she supports him during this time.

·      Christine – give her strength as she journeys to heart-healing.

·      Family of Eric – Eric at 52 died suddenly leaving his 47-year-old wife and three girls (ages 16, 19 and 23).  Pray the Lord comforts the family through this time of mourning.  Pray for their wisdom and that Go-d will send trustworthy, honourable, Bible-based councilors for the many decisions that now must be made.

·      Grant’s brother – seems to be stable now after doctors put a shunt in his skull to drain fluid from around the brain to reduce pressure. Pray for his health carers as they continue to help him.

·      Peyton - eldest granddaughter of Jeff and Rachael – now in her second year of college.  Please continue to pray for her that she does well, makes good decisions and continues having a good relationship with the Lord. 

·      Thanksgiving - Adam – he has found a job but continues to need encouragement and clear guidance from the Lord about his future and to know without doubt the depth of the Lord’s extravagant forgiveness.  Continue to pray for the strength of his wife that she will love and support him as he continues to heal and strengthen.

·      Barb – my brother’s faithful and kind wife.  Thank you for praying for her.  She needs prayers to sustain her and protect her health and energy during this time of additional stress and challenge at work.

·      Sophie – three-year old daughter of a friend.  She is chronically unwell and frail.  Please pray for her, her parents and health carers to find ways to manage the symptoms and heal her.

·      Hans – a dear friend in Germany, the cancer seems to be stable for now.  Pray for his financial situation to improve and for his ongoing strength through the pain when it comes.  Pray for his patience and God’s mercy.  Pray for his healthcare providers and that he is surrounded by faithful and compassionate Christian friends who will support him through this journey.  Pray for his Mom (age 84) who is also unwell -- that their time together is filled with extraordinary good memories and lots of love.

·      Callilah - a lost child.  Pray the Lord will capture her heart.

 

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