A True Favourite!

 

 

“Again, you have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not make false vows, but shall fulfill your vows to the Lord.;  But I say to you, make no oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is the footstool of His feet,

 

“ …or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great king.  Nor shall you make an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black.  But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil.” Matthew 5:33-37

 

“Then Moses spoke to the heads of the tribes of the sons of Israel, saying, ‘This is the word which the Lord has commanded.  If a man makes a vow to the Lord or takes an oath to bind himself with a binding obligation, he shall not violate his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.”  Numbers 30:1-2

 

I pray you are enjoying this series and noticing that Jesus seems to have some ‘favourites’ that He brings up frequently with His disciples, the people and the religious leaders – such as how important it is to keep your word or keep silent.  

 

It is such an ‘old fashioned’ concept, but Jesus would have us be honourable and surprise those who will say anything for their own gain. 

 

PS:  By the way, if you read all of Numbers 30, there are some interesting caveats about a woman’s vows. 

 

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?)

 

·      Eddy – has cancer in his bladder and kidneys.  The surgery to remove one of his kidney was successful and he is now home.  They will begin radiation or chemo soon.  Please pray for him and those who care for and support him during this time, especially his health-care providers.

·      Annette’s Dad – is recovering after his accident and brain bleed.  He is now recovering and will soon have another CATSCAN.  Pray God prepares the hearts and strengthen those who love this man for this challenging time -- and pray for his caregivers as he heals and recovers.

·      Maria Nienhaus, the mother of Hans has been taken to the hospital for tests and treatment for an undiagnosed illness (not COVID).  Please pray for her carers and those who love her so much.

·      Jasper, Bec and Nev – new youth pastors at our church.  They are still at Moore College and living on campus.  Pray for balance between their academic, church and family life.

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

·      Update - Unprecedented Floods in New South Wales, Australia - the rains have stopped but are expected to begin again in a few days  Clean up from previous floodings starts and stops.  So many are dealing with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those who have lost loved ones, their homes and all their possessions and especially 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 grieve and deal with the practical matters after the loss of their father.  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 God will send trustworthy, honourable, Bible-based councilors for the many decisions that now must be made.

·      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. 

·      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

How to Look Like a Fool Today

Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

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

or search YouTube for ‘Eye for an Eye:

Matthew 5:38-41 (Bible Study with Hand Hanegraaff)

By Bible Answer Man

 

[Jesus teaching] “’You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’  But I say to you, do not resist an evil person but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.  If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also.  Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two.  Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.’” Matthew 5:38

[God speaking] “’If a man takes the life of any human being, he shall surely be put to death.  The one who takes the life of an animal shall make it good, life for life.  If a man injures his neighbour, just as he has done, so it shall be done to him:  fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth; just as he has injured a man, so it shall be inflicted on him. 

 

“’Thus the one who kills an animal shall make it good, but the one who kills a man shall be put to death.  There shall be one standard for you; it shall be for the stranger as well as the native, for I am the Lord your God.’” Leviticus 24:20

 

The Jews of Jesus day must have been so confused.  They had waited lifetimes for the Messiah, they had come to believe would be a mighty military leader who would conquer the Roman occupiers of their lands. 

 

And here was Jesus, a scruffy, unremarkable man who continually spouted off about heart attitude.  When they brought up this ‘eye for an eye’, Jesus set them straight. 

 

This law was designed to demonstrate God’s mercy and justice and was given to judges to guide them to ensure they meted out punishment that fit the crime -- not a guide for personal revenge (Exodus 21:23-25, Leviticus 24:19-20, Deuteronomy 19:21).  It was meant to LIMIT vengeance. 

 

But vengeance is nearly irresistible!  Even today, people continue  to excuse their acts of revenge by saying, ‘He hit me first!’  When we are wronged often our natural reaction is to get even -- whether we do something about that wrong or just think about how good it would feel to do it. 

 

Instead Jesus said we should do good to those who wrong us!  Our desire should not be to keep score, but to love and forgive.  This is NOT natural – it’s supernatural, and only God can give us the strength to love as He does.  Instead of planning vengeance, pray for those who hurt you. 

 

When we do  we may initially look like a fool, but it confounds and confuses those who would take matters into their own hands and can give us an opening to introduce the One who changes hearts.

 

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?)

 

·      Eddy – has cancer in his bladder and kidneys.  The surgery to remove one of his kidney was successful and he is now home.  They will begin radiation or chemo soon.  Please pray for him and those who care for and support him during this time, especially his health-care providers.

·      Annette’s Dad – is recovering after his accident and brain bleed.  He is now recovering and will soon have another CATSCAN.  Pray God prepares the hearts and strengthen those who love this man for this challenging time -- and pray for his caregivers as he heals and recovers.

·      Maria Nienhaus, the mother of Hans has been taken to the hospital for tests and treatment for an undiagnosed illness (not COVID).  Please pray for her carers and those who love her so much.

·      Jasper, Bec and Nev – new youth pastors at our church.  They are still at Moore College and living on campus.  Pray for balance between their academic, church and family life.

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

·      Update - Unprecedented Floods in New South Wales, Australia - the rains have stopped but are expected to begin again in a few days  Clean up from previous floodings starts and stops.  So many are dealing with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those who have lost loved ones, their homes and all their possessions and especially 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 grieve and deal with the practical matters after the loss of their father.  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 God will send trustworthy, honourable, Bible-based councilors for the many decisions that now must be made.

·      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. 

·      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 – Take a Walk

Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://youtu.be/07GCSW1CQUg

Or search YouTube for Road to Emmaus

By David Helling (6 min 41 sec)

 

 “And behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus, which was about seven miles from Jerusalem.  And they were talking with each other about all these things which had taken place.” Luke 24:13-14

 

The Assignment

1.    Find an hour and a place where you can focus and not be interrupted.

2.    Bring with you a Bible, your notebook, something to write with and a refreshment.

3.    Settle in and pray that the Lord will give you new insight from a familiar passage.

4.    Read the chapter of Luke 24.

5.    Date a page in your notebook and write down the ideas, insights and verses that stand out to you in the passage.

6.    Pray over those discoveries and thank your Heavenly Father for providing you with the Holy Spirit, who teaches you through the Scriptures.

7.    Then take time to watch the video.  Keep making notes of any new information and insight.

8.    Identify someone to share these insights with and find a way to meet with them or contact with them within the next week.

 

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?)

 

·      Eddy – has cancer in his bladder and kidneys.  The surgery to remove one of his kidney was successful and they will begin radiation or chemo soon.  Please pray for him and those who care for and support him during this time, especially his health-care providers.

·      Annette’s Dad – is recovering after his accident and brain bleed.  He is now recovering and will soon have another CATSCAN.  Pray God prepares the hearts and strengthen those who love this man for this challenging time -- and pray for his caregivers as he heals and recovers.

·      Jasper, Bec and Nev – new youth pastors at our church are still at Moore College and living on campus.  Pray for balance between their academic and family life.

·      The horror of war in Ukraine – Please pray for the people caught in the cross-fires of this war, and especially strength for Christians of this country and that God’s sends encouragement and 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 stopped but are expected to begin again in a few days  Clean up from previous floodings starts and stops.  So many are dealing with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those who have lost loved ones, their homes and all their possessions and especially 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 grow through their grief at the loss of their father.  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.

·      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. 

·      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

Next Door

Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4btOnyHWuaU

or search YouTube for ‘What is the Greatest Commandment?

By Got Questions Ministry

 

“You shall not hate your fellow countryman in your heart; you may surely reprove your neighbour, but shall not incur sin because of him.  You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbour as yourself; I am the Lord.” Leviticus 19:17-18

 

“’You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbour, and hate your enemy.  But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 

 

“’For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have?  Do not even tax collectors do the same?  If you only greet your brothers, what more are you doing than others?  Do not even the Gentiles do the same?  Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matthew 5:43-48

 

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

 

“’The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’’” Matthew 22:39

 

“’The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’  There is no other commandment greater than these.’” Mark 12:31

 

As we continue with this series, I pray you are finding it interesting to learn more about the things Jesus referred to from the authority of the known Scriptures to those around Him.  His teachings were never random. 

 

He taught those He met as individuals -- small and huge groups.  He taught those who were simple and ordinary in their thinking -- to the most learned.  He taught those discovered in and those accused of sin and those who imagined they were perfect in light of the Law.  He taught direct and clear lessons -- and lessons in parables that had special and sometimes, seemingly hidden meaning. 

 

Most of all He continually taught His disciples knowing that the future of His message rested in them knowing and carrying His words to others.  How blessed we are to be part of that mission! 

 

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?)

 

·      Eddy – has cancer in his bladder and kidneys.  The surgery to remove one of his kidney was successful and they will begin radiation or chemo soon.  Please pray for him and those who care for and support him during this time, especially his health-care providers.

·      Annette’s Dad – is recovering after his accident and brain bleed.  He is now recovering and will soon have another CATSCAN.  Pray God prepares the hearts and strengthen those who love this man for this challenging time -- and pray for his caregivers as he heals and recovers.

·      Jasper, Bec and Nev – new youth pastors at our church are still at Moore College and living on campus.  Pray for balance between their academic and family life.

·      The horror of war in Ukraine – Please pray for the people caught in the cross-fires of this war, and especially strength for Christians of this country and that God’s sends encouragement and 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 stopped but are expected to begin again in a few days  Clean up from previous floodings starts and stops.  So many are dealing with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those who have lost loved ones, their homes and all their possessions and especially 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 grieve and deal with the practical matters after the loss of their father.  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.

·      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. 

·      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

Leviticus = Holy Living

Click the image or the link or

Copy and paste the link into your browser

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tO7uELes_w

or search YouTube for ‘Bible Verses for Wisdom

Powerful Scriptures for Wisdom’ by Daily Bible Audio

 

“’Again, you have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not make false vows, but shall fulfil your vows to the Lord.’  But I say to you, make no oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is the footstool of His feet, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. 

 

“’Nor shall you make an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black.  But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil.’” Matthew 5:33-37

 

“Now when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap to the very corners of your field, nor shall you gather the gleanings of your harvest.  Nor shall you glean your vineyard, nor shall you gather the fallen fruit of your vineyard; you shall leave them for the needy and for the stranger.  I am the Lord your God. 

 

“’You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another.  You shall not swear falsely by My name, so as to profane the name of your god; I am the Lord.” Leviticus 19:12

 

Jesus referenced Leviticus a number of times, as He taught about how we could live out the challenge of holiness.  Today, many have no clue what it means to keep your word.  Greed and division has insinuated itself more firmly into businesses, media and even some churches. 

 

Jesus teaching on the simpleness of saying what you mean and meaning what you say, is not popular -- because doing so exposes you to vulnerability and failure. 

 

I had the privilege of working in the ministry Christian Financial Concepts and learned that surprisingly the Bible speaks of handling wealth more than any other topic! 

 

When I lived in Australia and New Zealand, I wrote a course and taught through Larry’s book, Business by the Book[1], a classic that highlights the many references to managing and handling wealth based solely on the Bible. 

 

Every time I taught through the course, seasoned business leaders who attended, would argue for the ‘practicalities’ of the real world and how those ideas may have been alright in ‘the old days’ but today conducting business is entirely differently. 

 

“Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith.  Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:7-8

 

I may not like what Scripture teaches me sometimes, yet, what is written there is for my good and His glory.  It is up to me to trust Him.

 

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?)

 

·      Eddy – has cancer in his bladder and kidneys.  The surgery to remove one of his kidney was successful and they will begin radiation or chemo soon.  Please pray for him and those who care for and support him during this time, especially his health-care providers.

·      Annette’s Dad – is recovering after his accident and brain bleed.  He is now recovering and will soon have another CATSCAN.  Pray God prepares the hearts and strengthen those who love this man for this challenging time -- and pray for his caregivers as he heals and recovers.

·      Jasper, Bec and Nev – new youth pastors at our church are still at Moore College and living on campus.  Pray for balance between their academic and family life.

·      The horror of war in Ukraine – Please pray for the people caught in the cross-fires of this war, and especially strength for Christians of this country and that God’s sends encouragement and 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 stopped but are expected to begin again in a few days  Clean up from previous floodings starts and stops.  So many are dealing with the resulting devastation and loss.  Continue to pray for those who have lost loved ones, their homes and all their possessions and especially 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 grieve and deal with the practical matters after the loss of their father.  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.

·      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. 

·      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

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[1] Business by the Book © 1990 by Larry Burkett, published by Thomas Nelson, Inc