SABBATH SNAPSHOTS: UKRAINE BEAUTY

7/8/12  Scripture prayer was the focus of my time in Ukraine. It was my “prep” for the Lord’s work. Praying John 10:10 for my devotional times for the leadership, that the ladies could know the fullness of Christ in their lives so that a life of abundance would be theirs. Also, I prayed “my dance” verse for them, that all their hard places/struggles could be seen as blessing as they saw the Lord’s strength and sufficiency. (Psalm 30:11)

My “babies” team and my small group of Ukrainian women especially touched my heart during my week with them at Kompas Park. Several of them had shared their stories with me and I was drawn to pray for them. As with so many women, approval from others keeps us prisoners to what others think so I prayed for all of us to seek only God’s approval. But, I truly wanted the Lord’s words from scripture to become my prayers. I would encourage this method of prayer as one prays for others----whether for a day, a season or a lifetime, as God leads. It’s praying His words---His word according to Isaiah 55:11, that produces “fruit”.

so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

Katya (l) and hubby, David, that their Kreativity ministry would continue to be a joint effort and bring glory to the Lord. “Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!” (Psalms 34:3)

Luba (R) Praising the Lord for her “joyfully expectant” news and that she would see children as a blessing from the Lord. “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,
the fruit of the womb a reward.” (Psalm 127: 3)

Tanya---As we share a similar struggle, & I know the value of Christian friends who listen and pray, I pray for such a friend for her……”but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24)

Masha (l) my traveling buddy, who gave of herself continuously for to those involved in ministry, especially to the Bute children---freeing Katya and David for the Lord’s work. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” (Gal. 6: 9-10)

Ira (R) A beautiful wife and mother who gave unselfishly of her time to tend the babies of all the moms at the camp A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. (Proverbs 33:10-11)

Diana---That she will not only continue to sing God’s word (Psalm 119:72) but that she will see her true self as one beloved by Him and be all that He created her to be. “I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well. “(Psalm 139: 14)

Valya---Strength in ministry for this beautiful one who always had time and energy for kids---even those who cried “Mama” at first. “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (I Corinthians 15:58)

Liza Col. 3:12-15---especially v. 12, that she would continue to daily clothe herself with the godly attributes which were so evident to me. “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience;”

Oksana(L)---my translator, who also serves as a pastor’s wife, I Timothy 1:12 “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service,”

Alena(R)---God’s direction for her, who with her husband is seeking the Lord’s will about a mission assignment in Germany, “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield.” (Psalm 33:20)

Inna---Praying God’s best as she raises her son and seeks God’s peace “You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word.” (Psalm 119:114) May she filter all knowledge thru His Word.

Nastya---Praising the Lord that she seeks God’s priorities for her life, I pray that seeking Him first will give her needed direction. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:33)