PRAYER LIST 42
DO/TS
February 1997
Copyright 1997 by The Family.
"He shall feed His flock like a shepherd: He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young. Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of His understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might He increaseth strength" (Isaiah 40:11,28,29).
Please use this list along with PL 35, the latest long-term list. Thank you!
For 14 years and up. Can be read with JETTs, but they shouldn't read it on their own. Selected prayer requests, answers to prayer and testimonies of answered prayer may be read to younger age groups as well, at parents and teachers' discretion.
Important Notice:
Dear Family,
We love you and are so thankful for how the Lord so wonderfully takes care of each of us, answering our every need, healing our many sicknesses, and helping us to reach the world with His Message of Love! Thank you for the part you play in continuing to uphold each of our dear members around the world.
It's always so inspiring to read of the wonderful answers to prayer each month, and see the beautiful ways in which the Lord cares for and heals His children! Thank you for so faithfully sending them in. We had a small request to ask of you, that will help ensure that your answer to prayer gets published as promptly as possible. For those of you who aren't doing this already, please be sure to include your answers to prayer in the "Prayer Requests" section of the TRF. As explained recently in the Grapevine, the prayer request section of the TRF is sent to us right away from each CRO office for us to compile into the Prayer List. However, the other sections of the comments and suggestions get sent later. So if your answer to prayer is in the "Miracles" section of the TRF, chances are it'll be a while before it gets published. For the longer testimonies of miracles of healing, etc., the "Miracles" section is the right place, but please put answers to prayer requests that have been published on the Prayer List in the "Prayer Requests" section of the TRF. Additionally, if you are able to remember or easily look up the reference of the Prayer List where your request was published, please include this information. It's very helpful and saves a lot of time.
Thank you so much for your faithful prayers for your brothers and sisters. Please also pray for those who process and compile the requests, and put together the Prayer Lists, so that we can continue to get them out to you as quickly as possible. We love you!
Much love,
Your WS Family
P.S.: Previously we had specified with a "(TS)" prayer requests from TS brethren. However, it's not really necessary to distinguish between TS and DO brethren in the Prayer List, and therefore, for the most part we will be dropping any mention of status in the prayer requests or answers to prayer. God bless you!
ANSWERED PRAYERS:
Asia:
1. Jessica (of Sim and Liz) (PL 39:63): "It was a definite answer to prayer to have little Jessica and Sim and Liz's legal complications, as well as those of the new baby, worked out. All this happened shortly after the publication of the prayer request in the worldwide Prayer List!"
2. Tina (6, of Stefan and Joy) (PL 37:49): Her eye is healing well and fast! The squint has been rectified.
3. Jesse (11, of Sarah) (PL 39:63): His legal situation has improved, though he would still appreciate prayers for a complete breakthrough with his paperwork.
4. Joseph (3, of Adam and Mary Renewed) (PL 41:36): Hydrocoel (a condition where the testicles are filled with liquid) has improved greatly. Please continue to pray for his complete healing.
5. Rachel (6, of Steve and Ruthie) (PL 41:43): Her eczema is much better.
North America:
6. Liz Foto (of David) (PL 30:128): Painful growth on her foot is gone.
7. Andrew, Annie and Grace (PL 39:68): "We were touched to see our prayer request for the court case a landlord brought against us in the recent Prayer List. The victory is coming along slowly but surely. Thank the Lord, and thank you dear Family for your prayers."
8. Melody (11, of James and Christina) (PL 28:367): Healed from "lazy eye."
9. Ana (PL 29:127): Kidney problems doing much better.
10. Becky (PL 28:341): Back doing better.
11. Lydia (of Santiago) (PL 26:116): She writes, "The Lord has answered the worldwide Family's prayers for me and my continuing problems with my kidneys. I have had no signs of the former discomfort, problems and dizziness that I had before."
12. Acqua (PL 36:66): Her hair stopped falling out, and her liver illness (Hepatitis C) appears to be in remission.
13. John David and Kezia (former members): They are thankful for everyone's prayers. John is recovering miraculously after breaking his back in a serious car accident. He is now walking and expected to fully recover.
South America:
14. Lucero (PL 38:108): Blood pressure is no longer high and her cholesterol level is normal.
15. Primavera (of Sol) (PL 39:120): Healed from asthma.
16. Flor (of Richard) (PL 37:94): Heart condition is much better.
17. Elizabeth (PL 32:96): Recovering rapidly from her psoriasis.
18. Lydia: "Since being put on the Prayer List, I've rarely had a backache, and the migraines are definitely lessening."
19. Jonathan: The numbness in his arm has gone.
20. Joanna (of Santiago): Since being on the Prayer List, she hasn't had any heavy asthma attacks.
Europe and Africa:
21. Belgium media team (PL 38:118): "The commission's hearing resulting from the parliamentary inquiry into the Family here went well. It lasted two-and-a-half hours and we were asked a lot of questions including some difficult ones, but nothing that we had not expected them to ask us or were not prepared for. Now they've heard our side, which is a victory in itself, considering that so far they had only heard the negative about us."
22. Peter (5, of Dust and Maria) (PL 21:207): "We can do nothing but testify to the power of prayer and the Lord's goodness to us. Peter recently went to the hospital for week-long tests to determine if the chemotherapy treatment he's undergone for leukemia had caused any damage to his vital organs, or if there is still a trace of the sickness in some hidden corner of the body. Although some of the tests were unexpectedly rough, he came through with flying colors and the doctor said that Peter had passed the whole two-year treatment exceptionally well--better than any other child he knows of--and that his was a classic case of everything that was supposed to go well, going well. Peter is now officially off chemotherapy. He still has to come for regular doctor visits, as the doctors are always rather fearful that the sickness will come back, but these visits are not difficult. What a sweet victory, especially when we remember how so many people have taken the time and effort to bring our child before the Lord in prayer. Thank you all for praying. All this has also helped us personally to take the Prayer Lists that come our way very seriously, knowing how much we depend on the prayer help of others."
23. Free (PL 31:236): "The Lord has done a big miracle of healing my back over the last couple of months, to where I can now live a regular life and be free of pain in my back if I stay prayerful about what I do. Thank the Lord, and thanks to all those who have been keeping me in their prayers."
24. Andrew (PL 38:139): Healed from a hernia.
25. Pearl (8, of Esther) (PL 39:135): Due to your prayers, healed from kidney and liver disorders.
26. Daniel (of Meekness) (PL 41:129): "When baby Daniel was born, his kidneys had difficulties functioning properly, but after your prayers and the Lord's touch, his kidneys are healed. So is his allergy rash! I (Meekness) also don't have a breast infection anymore! Thank you for being our prayer warriors!"
27. Vigna (of Nehemiah) (PL 39:121): Her irregular heartbeats and hypertension are much better.
28. Anna (of James and Lily) (PL 36:131): "Our Down's syndrome daughter, Anna, is doing better since being on the Prayer List. Her hormones are back to normal, her speech is improving, she is talking more and is beginning to ask us questions, etc."
29. Domie (3, of Phillip and Kasia) (PL 38:124): "After Domie was on the Prayer List for a few months against a bad allergy that caused painful sores all over her body, the Lord continually healed her, till now her body is completely clear."
30. Benji (baby, of Phillip and Kasia) (PL 38:123): "One of the prayer requests we had for Benji (who has Down's syndrome) was for his neck muscles to develop. Jesus answered, and Benji is now able to hold his head straight up! We would like to ask for continued prayers for Benji's heart."
31. Marie (PL 36:132): Healed of malaria she had during her pregnancy. She hasn't gotten any recurring bouts.
32. Baby Natalie (PL 40:129): Healed from skin infection.
33. Meekness: Pain in leg is gone.
34. Faith: Since being on the Prayer List for diabetes she has stabilized and doesn't need medicine any more.
35. Clare (of Stephen): "After my prayer request against headaches appeared in the Prayer List, I have had a lot less headaches than before."
36. Bruni: "I'd like to thank everyone that prayed for me. I've had a very bad fungus infection in my toenails for some years. The last doctor I visited consulted with a group of doctors and told me the only possible cure was having all of my toenails cut out by the roots. Thank the Lord, after desperate prayer, the Lord raised up another concerned doctor who prescribed an extremely expensive medicine. By a miracle we were able to get the medicine for 1% of its price, and now my toenails are completely healed after being infected for five years."
Pacific:
37. Ray (PL 29:253): His back and knees have been feeling better.
38. Lily (PL 41:154): Eczema is much better than before.
39. Gioia (PL 40:165): "We would like to thank each one of you once again for your prayers for Gioia! After having undergone another minor surgery on a pre-cancerous lesion it appears that what was found was indeed pre-cancerous and not invasive cancer! In addition, the doctor has confirmed that it all was taken out and not a trace remains!"
40. Solomon (PL 41:145): The operation to fix a tendon in his finger was successful and his finger is almost healed and back to normal.
41. Elizabeth (PL 41:146): Her hand that received two bad electrical shocks is doing well.
42. Crystal Lily (of Francesco) (PL 39:177): "The Lord has been healing the pains I have been experiencing due to the tumor on my ovary."
43. Ricky (2, of Peter) (PL 39:180): He had infectious viral warts all over his torso and legs, but after the prayer request was sent in the warts started to dry up and are now almost completely gone!
44. David (of Tania): Completely healed of back problems.
PRAYER REQUESTS
CRITICAL OR LIFE-AND-DEATH SITUATIONS
45. Faith (of Philip), Asia: In the advanced stages of breast cancer. Faith's condition is worsening very rapidly. She is now bedridden and has to be fed intravenously. Faith continues to be very positive and full of faith and is looking forward to the Lord taking her Home soon. Please pray that the Lord has His perfect timing for her passing to the Other Side, and that if at all possible, all of her children will be able to be by her bedside at that time.
46. Mercy (of Bill), North America: Cervical cancer. For her complete healing, wisdom in decisions regarding further treatment, and also that the Lord will greatly encourage and strengthen Mercy, Bill and their children at this time.
47. Sammy (10, of Andrew and Lily), North America: Sammy is back in the hospital battling a serious case of cancer which has returned--this time to his nervous system. (See PL 40 for more details.) He has been suffering from headaches, and is having difficulty keeping food down. The vision in his left eye has become blurred. For relief from his headaches and that he will eat well again; to regain the sight in his left eye, and for comfort for him as he's fighting fear. For wisdom for Andrew and Lily regarding whether or not to go ahead with a bone marrow transplant that the doctors are suggesting. For their wisdom in any other medical decisions.
48. James (TS), Europe: Final stages of AIDS. For the Lord to comfort him and alleviate his suffering and that the new treatments that the doctors are giving him will be effective.
49. Luke (9, of Nehemiah and Meekness), Europe: Diagnosed with a pressure on his brain caused by a build up of fluids on his brain as well as his spine. He immediately underwent a minor operation to remove the water from his brain and was given medication to keep it under control. However, a couple days later he had to be rushed back to the hospital where they performed a second operation, as more water was building up on his brain. They want to keep him in the hospital for further examinations and blood tests. For grace, peace, faith and strength for Luke, as the pain is very strong and the pain killers don't have much effect; that the doctors will find out exactly what is wrong and that he will be miraculously healed. Also for Nehemiah and Meekness; for grace and strength, as it is quite a trying time for them. Also for great wisdom in all the medical decisions they must make.
50. Regina (eldest daughter of Steven and Adria, former members), North America: She is hospitalized in critical condition after being hit by a car while she was walking on the sidewalk.
MAMA AND PETER
51. Mama: For normal menstrual periods; that she'll be able to continue to get good daily exercise; that she will stay free of headaches or colds, which put a further strain on her already sore eyes.
52. Peter: For his heart, strength, wisdom and the Lord's leading and guidance, as he is presently visiting one of the CRO areas to help strengthen the Family structure, as explained in Grapevine #14.
(Please also see the prayer requests for Mama and Peter in the last long-term Prayer List, PL 35.)
WORLDWIDE
WS Pubs and Tools
53. For the GPU (GP Pubs Unit): For those working on writing and editing new GP booklets for Family distribution. That all the business details involved in publishing GP books and mass marketing our tools will fall into place properly. For good counsel from lawyers and other outside consultants, and especially for the Lord's leading in the many decisions that need to be made.
Family Leadership
54. Wisdom, strength and anointing for the CROs and their office staff.
55. That our VS teams will be a help and blessing to the Homes they visit. For the wisdom, discernment and love needed for their important job. That the Lord will continue to raise up others who are qualified and willing to visit the Homes and provide the loving shepherding and help needed.
56. Strength and wisdom for our ABMs and their worldwide networking in order to help the Family with their movements and communications.
Home Life
57. That we will go to the Word for the answers and solutions to our problems, both individually and on the Home level. That we will fight to make time for the Word, prayer and listening to the Lord.
58. For unity and loving interaction within and between Homes.
59. For any teens who have fallen in with bad company after leaving the Family, who are now in trouble or involved in crime, drugs or prostitution. That the Lord will protect them, deliver them from their vices or dangerous situations, and help them to either return to the Lord's service or become productive members of society and be a help and blessing to others in some way.
ASIA
60. Vietnam: The Family in Vietnam write, "In the prophecies sent out in GN 711 it seems that the door to this country is likely to stay open only through our fervent prayers. So please unite with us in prayer for this door to remain open. We've only been here a year, and in many ways we're just getting started. There is so much to do. Pray for the government to be tolerant towards us; for wisdom as we seek to get out more Word through our friends, and for guidance in how to print the lit here."
61. James and Charity, Chris and Jewel, Ruth CP, Ruth, and son Luke (9), Lily (of Paul) , Jesse (11, of Sarah), Luke and Catherine: Legal work.
62. Noelle (2, of Stevie and Ruthie): Cysts on her jaw. The cysts have not impaired her breathing, but they have grown along her jaw line and made her face very swollen. That the existing cysts will recede and no new cysts will grow. Against colds, the flu or childhood diseases which cause the cysts to grow. Also for the Lord's leading and wisdom regarding possible medical treatment.
63. Brian (3, of Ready and Thai Rose): Hydrocoel (a condition where the testicles are filled with liquid). Doctors say this can only be taken care of by an operation. Please pray for his complete healing.
64. Freya Rose (baby, of Sarah Shine): Recurring boils.
65. Charity (of James S.): Asthma. For weight gain and general strength.
66. Gabe Onward (15, of Tim and Tabitha): Painful hernia.
67. Paul (of Crystal); Richard (of Paul and Crystal); Thai Praise (of Josiah); Flame (9, of Sarah): Asthma.
68. Stephanie (17, of Benny and Lily): Back problems.
69. Charity: Muscle pains in chest, which affect other parts of the body and health.
70. Daniel Endtime: Eye problems.
71. Suhani (baby, of Daniel and Crystal): To gain weight.
72. James Newlove: Lesions and swellings on right upper leg.
73. Marie Claire (17): Severe hair loss.
NORTH AMERICA
74. For the Family in Mexico City: For protection and against health complications due to the high pollution.
75. David (18, of David and Charity): David has a cyst filled with spinal fluid which is a result of his motorcycle accident. The doctors are debating draining this or letting it get smaller on its own. Please pray that this cyst gets smaller and that the doctors won't have to operate, as if they have to operate there is a chance of infection. For David's complete recovery; especially in the use of his bowels, and for total control of his leg and foot muscles.
76. Jacob (of Damascus): Bleeding in the throat that causes choking. For a correct diagnosis.
77. Victor (15): Epilepsy. Against any negative effects the attacks may have on his physical and emotional development.
78. Brunella (4, of Miguel and Cherish): Had a bad seizure attack and is on medication to prevent future attacks. That she will have no more seizures and the strong drugs won't affect her adversely.
79. Kristina: Recovery from corrective surgery on her foot so she is able to walk without pain.
80. Trusty: Seriously injured her shoulder due to a fall, leaving her quite disabled and in a lot of pain.
81. Mercy Tender: Lump on her back that appears to be growing.
82. Jesse (6, of Cris and Joy): Swollen area in his groin.
83. Lily (of Ben): Golf-ball sized cyst on her neck.
84. Cherie (10, of Peter and Joy): That her teeth will grow normally and the Lord will supply all that is necessary for her treatment.
85. Dave Fixit: Severe back pain, preventing him from walking for more than five minutes.
86. Joy Pioneer: On dialysis due to a kidney problem. Bone disease and insomnia.
87. Mercy Newmorning: Deteriorating health, hypoglycemia, and occasional chest pain.
88. Sara (of Sam); David Joy: Painful hemorrhoids.
89. Hepsy, (3, of Promise): To learn to speak clearly.
90. Sarah (of Solomon): Insomnia, and pain in her left arm and leg.
91. Zech (of Hannah); Adam: Back problems.
92. Ben Fisher: Insomnia.
93. Steven (of Paul and Ruth): Eczema.
94. Isaias Cristobal; Marie (of Peter): Hernia.
95. Eric: Injured knee.
SOUTH AMERICA
96. Miguel (of Clara): He recently underwent an operation to remove his spleen. The operation went well and he is recovering. Preliminary tests showed that his platelet level went up to 150,000 which is almost normal! However, his last test shows that his blood platelets have decreased. For Miguel's encouragement; that his blood count will stabilize and for complete recovery from his operation.
97. Paloma (of Miguel): Fibroid tumor in her uterus.
98. Dulce (of Esteban): Virus in the cervix which could produce cancer.
99. Clara Heaven: Asthma; insomnia.
100. David (2, of Josu and Ester): Eye infection.
101. David (10, of Jonathan and Priscilla): Psoriases on his knees.
102. Lydia: Hypoglycemia; high blood pressure. For weight loss.
103. Marcos (3, of Paulo and Cristina): Sinus problem and bronchitis.
EUROPE AND AFRICA
104. For the overall media situation in Europe, specifically against the ACMs, who appear to be regrouping and are on the attack in several countries.
105. Poland: For a meeting with authorities and establishing dialogue with them; follow-up on friendly academics. Against negative coverage that sweeps the country via news articles, TV programs, etc. For the Lord's wisdom and anointing on the media team.
106. For the favorable resolution of a possible investigation in Southern Germany.
107. For the Lord's protection and safe-keeping in Russia from the recent wave of bombings and terrorist activities in the country.
108. Pedro (of Lily); Danny (adopted child of Branch and Vida): Legal work.
109. Mary (of Jonathan): She was rushed to the hospital with a serious kidney infection. She's doing better and recovering quickly. She is no longer in critical condition, but she is still battling a fever which only goes down with medication. For her complete healing, strength and encouragement.
110. Paul (of Peace): Splintering and degenerating lumbar disk that causes sharp pains in left leg.
111. Christina (of Chris): Potential miscarriage. High percentage of white blood cells indicating an infection in her body.
112. Ruth Victor (of David Victor): Tinnitus and vertigo which cause her to lose balance and control of her body without warning; against discouragement and for strength to do her daily tasks.
113. Paloma Blanca (of Daniel, YAs): Six months pregnant. Ultrasound results show her baby has a benign cyst on its brain. For the cyst to disappear and for Paloma's strength and encouragement.
114. Jenny: Recovery after breast cancer operation. That further treatment won't be necessary.
115. Sean Patrick (2, of German Mary): Inflammation of the pancreas.
116. Dani (of Tino and Ana): Thrombocytophenia (an abnormal decrease in the number of platelets in the blood).
117. Peter Fighter (13): Healing of his ear that was affected by the explosion of a firecracker.
118. Esther (of Samuele and Lily): Possibly needing heart surgery.
119. Joan: Recurring ache in pelvis area due to complications during the birth of her last child.
120. Tim (of Tabi): Provisioning of good medical care for a cyst on his chin.
121. Maria (of Dust): Inflammation of the womb.
122. Richard (2, of Thomas and Esther): For proper development of his bones and against knock knees.
123. Richard Robin (1, of Luke and Mercy): Water hernia in testicles.
124. Angel Russian: Lump on her ear.
125. Gabriella: Sore eyes when reading and increased vision difficulties.
126. Sara: For the proper brace that will help her scoliosis (abnormal curvature of the spine) to improve, and for a quick healing.
127. Philip: Weak heart.
128. Elena (8, of Byron and Mercy): Swollen adenoids, causing difficulty in hearing.
129. Esther (of Thomas): Painful urinary tract infection; gingivitis of gums and tooth decay resulting from it.
130. Vida (of Branch); Marie; Steven (of Joy); Miguel (of Mercy); Bulgarian Claire: Back problems.
131. Faith: High blood pressure.
132. Daniele (of Christina): Bleeding ulcers.
133. Sara Faithful (of Levi): Allergy.
134. Emy (3, of Simon and Julia): To learn to talk.
135. Cherith (of Mercy): For the proper growth of her permanent teeth.
136. Joy (of Josiah); Steven (of Mary Joyful); Allen (3, of Diamond): Eczema.
137. Mary Joyful (of Stephen): Skin fungus.
138. Joanna Aussie: Extreme hair loss.
139. Ruby (of Andrew): Against weight loss.
140. Sara (16, of Steven and Maria): Very painful migraine headaches.
141. Elena (8, of James and Anna): Eye problems and an allergy.
142. Zac: Gastric hernia, digestive problems.
143. Douglas: Pain in elbows.
144. Charity (of John): Hearing difficulty in one ear.
145. Martin (of Joan): To be healed of hernia or have a successful operation.
146. John (of Joanna): Against a lump in his throat and constant ringing in his ears.
147. Etienne (19): Back and nerve problems.
148. Emanuele (of Pat): Asthma.
PACIFIC
149. For the smooth turnover of Hong Kong to the Chinese government. That any new laws will not affect the Family adversely.
150. Equipment upgrades for JAS: "A lot of our equipment is 'dated' or outdated. We could continue growing in our musical productions by acquiring newer equipment with newer sounds, so we're asking the Lord to supply for us through supernatural means."
151. Phily (3, of James and Vicky): Bronchitis.
152. Candle (11, of Abner and Promise): Cerebral palsy. Healing of her body and against fear.
153. Maria (13, of Maggi and Joseph): Ongoing stomach problem which doctors cannot find the cause of.
154. Lena (of Chris): Overall weak health. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), causing her heart to hurt; dizzy spells and weak kidneys.
155. Sunny (of Gideon): To recover from the side-effects of radiation used to get rid of the cancer.
156. Clair (YA, of John): "I would like to ask for continued prayer for my heart condition as following the birth of my baby my heart has been a little worse than before I got pregnant with frequent palpitations and pains in my chest and right arm." (See PL 37:147.)
157. Love (of John): Recurring migraine headaches.
158. Tania (of Tim): Varicose veins.
159. David (of Freya): Sore eyes resulting in vision loss. Headaches.
160. Etoile (of Pete): For the continued healing of her throat and her urethra.
161. Naomi (of Daniel): Pain in arms.
162. Ray (of Rejoice): Hurt back, knees, ankle, shoulder, and sinuses.
163. Johnny (11, of Michael and Sunshine); Sweety (10), Happy (7, of Rejoice and Jeremy); Isaac, (5, of Rejoice): Asthma.
164. Marty (of Heaven): Possible hernia and resultant lump in testicle.
165. Marco (of Tabitha): Skin problems.
166. Joseph: Infection in the muscles of his arms.
167. Crystal (of Peter): Daily outbreaks of hives.
168. John (of Claire YA); Vicky: Gum/tooth infection.
169. Joy (of Able): Stomach problems.
170. Angie (11, of Anna and Stephen): Severe recurring headaches.
171. Tommy, (15, of Steven and Susanna): Eczema.
172. Pete (11, of John and Praise): Sinus and chest problems.
173. Lamb: Persistent ear infection. Also for the healing of her ankle which was injured a year ago.
174. Sara NZ: For her neck which continually goes out of place and gives her very severe migraine headaches.
NOTICES AND TESTIMONIES OF ANSWERED PRAYER
UPDATE ON VANESSA (11, OF ISAIAH AND FAITH)
From Faith, Canada:
Here's an update on the wonderful miracles that the Lord has done to help Vanessa recover from the car accident (see PL 39:70).
Last month we shared how Vanessa's head injury was healing rapidly and her memory and concentration were coming back very fast! (PL 41:11). Also, the fractures on her collarbones were healing very well. However, three weeks after the accident, Vanessa still complained of pain in her legs, so we consulted with our chiropractor who insisted that she have x-rays of her pelvis and upper femurs.
We were shocked when we received the results of the x-rays the next morning. Vanessa had five fractures (four on her pelvis and a long crack in her femur)! While at the hospital the first five days after the accident, the doctors kept insisting that her complaints of pain in that area were caused by irritation from the head injury. After seeing the x-rays, our family doctor (a very sweet Christian missionary lady) immediately phoned a bone specialist who insisted we bring Vanessa to the hospital where he planned to admit her right away. But of course, the Lord, Who had already begun a good work in Vanessa, would be the One to get all the glory in the end.
As we arrived at the hospital, the doctor seemed worried and asked Vanessa to walk to him and get up to the examination table, both of which Vanessa did as if there was nothing wrong! After examining her, he said that he had never seen a case like hers in all his time as a doctor, where a child had been walking almost perfectly with five fractures in this particular area, one of them (on the femur) a very serious vertical fracture. He also told me that if these two fractures had been detected right after the accident (three weeks before), he would have operated on Vanessa's thigh and put two clamps on the bone to prevent it from breaking in half and slipping out of the pelvic socket! Vanessa would have had to wear these clamps for one year!
After seeing how well Vanessa was, he decided to release her, but on the condition that she'd use a wheelchair for a couple of months to allow the bones to heal completely and to keep the cracked femur in place. We felt at this point that the Lord would continue to heal Vanessa "every whit whole" as He has promised in Grandpa's message, but that, since He had allowed the doctors to discover the already healing bones, we should have Vanessa use the wheelchair first and crutches afterward until the bones were all knitted together.
Today, almost two months after the accident, we had a visit with the bone specialist, and the x-rays showed that Vanessa is almost completely healed and the only bone that needs a little more time is the femur! The doctor said that she can start walking without the use of crutches, go swimming and even ride her bike. Vanessa is very thankful and excited that the Lord gave her the desires of her heart: to be able to walk by Christmas day. Even while in her wheelchair she was happy to go out witnessing, in spite of feeling a little embarrassed and self-conscious.
We all believe that if the x-rays had not been done and we had been unaware of the fractures, that the Lord would have healed Vanessa completely anyway, but we also believe that He used what we may have thought was a real defeat (five "new" fractures) to show the doctors and nurses the healing power of our God! We want to thank everyone who prayed for Vanessa during this time, as her total healing was Jesus' answer to all your prayers, not the doctor's work or any medical intervention. Thank You Jesus!
PRAYER POWER
From Faith David, (19), Kazakhstan:
Recently I sent in a request for my knee to the Prayer List. Although I had not injured it, it had been painful and swollen on and off for weeks. In my personal prayer time, I asked the Lord if He was trying to show me something through it. He told me that He allowed it so that I would feel the afflictions of others and have a burden to pray for them. Usually I only pray for the things on the Prayer List during the set times for it, such as during prayer vigil and prayer day. After hearing from the Lord, I made a personal commitment to pray more for those on the Prayer List. So now, before I go to bed, I take the Prayer List and pray a heartfelt prayer for a few of our precious Family members. And you know what?--The Lord has healed my knee! Thank You Jesus!
From Sunny Bright, Bulgaria:
I'm very thankful for the monthly prayer days that the Family all over the world have. Several months ago I was constantly having migraine headaches. This was probably one of the tests that I had to go through as a babe in the Family and even afterwards. I got so discouraged with myself and my physical condition that I thought I would never make it in the Family with being constantly sick and tired. This went on until I was put on the Prayer List and the whole Family prayed for me.
Then the Lord did a miracle and I was healed. Since then I hardly ever have a headache. Now, when we have a prayer day, I'm very desperate when I pray for all these people on the list and I have full faith that the Lord will do more than they ever expected. He said: "I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears, behold I will heal thee." God bless Mama for emphasizing so much the importance of praying and hearing from the Lord, reading the Word and loving Jesus more. I really admire her.
From Lily Shondo (YA), Pakistan:
It's difficult sometimes to remember all the people on the Prayer List. If you're working in the kitchen or with kids, it's difficult to keep a Prayer List with you all the time. So I decided to "adopt" a couple of people and pray for them whenever I think about it. Someone I adopted was Benji (of Philip and Kasia, in Prayer List 36). I was so encouraged to read how he's now doing better.
PRAY FOR...
Pray for one another.
Pray for a pregnant mother.
Pray for Mama's eyes,
And against the Devil's lies.
Pray for Peter,
And for a van--a twelve seater.
Pray for our loved ones,
And for more funds.
Pray for our brothers in jail,
And for the safety of the mail.
Pray for the dying,
And the lost who are crying.
Pray for more provision,
And that the Lord will give us the vision.
Pray for a lost soul,
And that the Lord will make us happy and whole.
By Timothy (16) and Jason (11), Greece
"THESE SIGNS SHALL FOLLOW THEM THAT BELIEVE..."
From Anne Quixote (of Dan), Canada:
My mother came from France to visit our family. She has skin cancer, and remembering how she was miraculously healed of ulcers through prayer when she visited last year, she wanted to come and see us again to ask for prayer. Her doctor was not in favor of her making the long trip, but she had the faith for it. She is Jewish, but over the years she has come to deeply respect our faith and she has full faith in our faith in Jesus because she has had plenty of opportunities to see the good fruit the Family has born.
Our whole family got together and anointed her with oil and laid hands on her, claiming healing promises from the Word and praising the Lord for her healing by faith. When she returned to France, she saw her doctor who said there were no more cancerous spots on her body. Praise the Lord! We felt the Lord was going to do the instant miracle of healing as a testimony of the power of Jesus to her and her family, who are all Jewish.
From Josh and Lily, India:
We met a very precious girl who was miraculously healed a few days before we met her! She said that she was bedridden for more than a year with a disorder in her spinal cord, and even had to be carried to the bathroom. But suddenly one day, after months of crying out to the Lord to heal her, she felt a hot flush rush through her body. Then she felt this very strong voice within her telling her to get out of bed, as she was now going to be healed. When she told her mother that she was going to get up, her mother tried to stop her so that she wouldn't hurt herself. But this girl was determined to put God to the test, and lo and behold, she got up and walked, after the doctors had given up all hope of her ever recovering again!
We met her just a few days after this "major event" in her life and she confided in us, explaining she doesn't really know why God chose to so miraculously heal her. We explained to her from the Word that when God does a miracle, it is usually for the sake of being a witness. So we encouraged her to start sharing her testimony with as many as she could. Also since there are several hospitals in her town, we encouraged her to visit the patients and offer to pray for them. We armed her with lots of literature, and she immediately took up the challenge. She has now been witnessing, and D.V. will be helping us on outreach the next time we visit her area!
"AS MANY AS TOUCHED HIM WERE MADE PERFECTLY WHOLE."
From Francis A., Japan:
About three years ago I injured my back seriously, but because we were involved in media persecution I just tried to keep going until finally I could barely walk and had severe pain. A doctor x-rayed and found a vertebrae 70% dislocated and my spinal cord pinched. He very seriously and strongly recommended surgery as the only alternative and even called my Home and gave instructions for me to stop all activities except my typing. The doctor recommended that I see a bone doctor at the best hospital in the area and explained that the surgery that I needed was beyond his expertise. The new doctor had the same diagnosis, but with the additional factor of two fractures in the same vertebrae which made surgery even more necessary. After lots of tests, x-rays and MRIs, I was pretty overwhelmed and finally went for counsel with a visiting shepherd. It was suggested that I take a few days in the Word and prayer to make a decision which would be supported in prayer by all!
Well, I couldn't get anything about having the surgery for my pros and cons list, but I got a lot about trusting the Lord and claiming His promises and serving Him no matter what. The volumes of Word treasures we have drove away any doubt that I had, and I took a stand to continue with traction and begin an exercise program to regain my strength, as it had been almost two years from the time I first injured my back and I had become pretty handicapped--but no surgery. I moved and found a good physical therapist and started slowly with a few exercises and a little swimming at his recommendation. It's been over three years now and I'm still making steady progress and fighting for my healing. I can now swim about one-and-a-half kilometers, and am now able to walk, even up steep hills for a mile or so, whereas before I could barely walk 200 meters. The Lord has kept His part of the bargain. As I do what I can--He does all the rest. His Word has never failed me in the 20-plus years I've been serving Him in our wonderful Family.
From Agnes (20), England:
I would like to share a short testimony about the Lord's healing and the lesson I learned from it. I've had eczema now for nine years, mainly on my hands, which has been painful and uncomfortable and it has left me unable to do my work at times. I've gone to a few different doctors to find cures and creams to at least soothe my hands from the pain and itchiness, but with not much success. I was a bit hesitant to be put on the Prayer List because of my lack of faith, Lord help me. But after a month or so, I discovered that my hands were doing a bit better. This increased my faith, so I started praying more for others on the Prayer List as well. After a short time, my hands were totally healed. Thank You Jesus, and thank you all for your prayers.
I testified to the Home of my healing and the miracle the Lord had done, but the next day came the big test. My hands became all itchy and I knew it was my eczema coming back. I prayed desperately and fought the Enemy. I was just not going to accept it. I had the victory and I was determined to keep the victory. It sure was an attack of the Enemy to discourage my faith. During the night, my hands again became much worse and I couldn't sleep, so I continued to fight in prayer. Well, the next day the eczema was completely gone and it has not come back since. Thank the Lord! It taught me a good lesson on not giving up when things look darkest, but to stand on the Word and claim the victory. I know the Lord wants to heal us, but sometimes He wants us to put our faith into action. I tried so many times to work it up by going to doctors, using hundreds of creams and lotions, etc., which was just a work of the flesh, but I had to work and fight for the victory in the spirit, get desperate and then expect it by faith, even when it seemed I had lost it. I am so thankful for the Lord's love and healing power and His faithfulness to teach and train us and draw us closer to Him.
From Cherish (of Miguel), USA:
There has been quite a big victory for us with our daughter Brunella (4 years). We had previously thought she had a number of neurological problems due to the fact that she was born so premature. We had a number of specialists look at her to evaluate and see exactly which areas she is behind in, etc. All of these experts told us that she did indeed have some definite disabilities and she would need to see some therapists for help in her speech, motor skills, etc., which we are thankful that she will be able to get. Shortly, Brunella will be attending a day school for children with disabilities, to help her make progress in her weak areas. However, in order for her to attend this school, she needed an examination from a doctor. The Lord led us to a really sweet doctor to examine Brunella. At the end of the examination, he told us that he felt that her problems were very minimal and that by the time she is eight or nine, she will be caught up to her age in her abilities. This was really encouraging for us and even more encouraging was when he told us that he has a patient who was the same age as Brunella when she first came to him. At the time, she couldn't even walk yet, and she had many of the same disabilities Brunella has, but now she is ten years old and goes to school with normal children.
A couple of weeks later we went to the Board of Education to see what class she would actually be placed in. They told us that they were suggesting a class for her with about five other children who have similar disabilities. They stay in this class for a couple of years until they catch up with the rest of the children in the school that are their age and then they integrate them into the class with the normal children. They were also quite hopeful that with time and therapy she would be able to pull out of being so far behind for her age and eventually gain the needed progress. Thank You Jesus! It really is the Lord's mercy and blessing on us to lead us to such sweet people who have so much faith for Brunella and her care. We are very thankful to have access to professionals who have lots of training in knowing exactly how to help these types of children. Thanks for your prayers for Brunella.
From Peter P., India:
I have had a problem with pretty bad headaches at least twice a week. I would get my eyes checked, but the doctors would tell me everything was fine and they couldn't find any reason for my headaches. However about a month ago I got a very bad head cold which didn't go away--it just stayed and stayed. Pretty much for a whole month I had a very bad headache every day. I could not even concentrate on my work. Lord help me, instead of getting desperate in prayer and going to the Lord for His healing, I was trying to play it down and pretend that I wasn't feeling all that bad.
I went to see a doctor and he prescribed some pills for me, saying he thought I had a problem with my sinuses. He told me I needed to get an X-ray of my sinuses, etc. As soon as I started taking the medication my headaches stopped immediately. I think I took medication for about one week, and I was feeling great. In the meantime I went and got x-rays done, to find out what was really wrong. At the end of that week I stopped taking the medication and right away my headaches came back and this time it was even worse. I went back to the doctor and he said to continue the medication. My head was hurting really bad, but as long as I kept taking the medication I was fine. A couple of times I tried to stop taking the medication, and right away I got the headaches back again.
By this time I started to realize that the doctor didn't really know what was wrong, and for him it was pretty natural to expect me to take medication for the rest of my life. At this point I started to get desperate with the Lord for healing. The Home prayed for me, and I took the step of faith to just hold on to the Lord and stop taking the medication. Needless to say, the first day it was difficult, as the headaches started to come back. But I knew that the Lord wanted me to fight and not go back to the medication, and by a miracle the headaches went away. And since that first day, my headaches have not come back again. I am very thankful to the Lord for these things in my life that helped me to see things more in the Spirit, and to put the Lord to the test and to trust Him rather than trust in the System and the doctors. Thank the Lord for His healing!
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE LONG-TERM LIST
Following is a brief summary of the main topics covered in the last long-term list (PL 35). We hope this can come in handy to jog your memory when praying for these topics. This is not meant as a substitute for PL 35, so please try to refer to PL 35 for the specifics whenever possible.
* Mama and Peter and their staff
* Family Leadership, CROs, VSes
* Pregnant mothers/newborns
* Childcare teachers/shepherds
* Children and their shepherding/education
* Teens/JETTs
* General good health of all Family members
* WS pubs production
* Video/audio productions
* Witnessing/follow-up
* Friends/supporters
* Young people's witnessing ministry
* Special outreach ministries
* Mail ministries
* Home teamworks
* Home/WS finances
* Good Word/prayer time
* Housing
* Landlords/neighbors
* Legal paperwork
* Vehicles/drivers
* Stability of local and national governments
* Media teams
* Lawyers/academics
* Media coverage/contacts
* Protection from persecution
# # #
Copyright (c) 1998 by The Family