All Your Heart

 

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:5

     Knowing this and reading those words are completely different than living them. Luckily for us, the Holy Spirit continues to work in us, growing us in faith over time, until Jesus becomes a continual presence in our lives. The Spirit guides us in our speech, our thoughts and our actions. Allow The Spirit to fill you to the brim.

Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it out to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

     God is working on our hearts and souls. Listen for His voice. Dig into Scripture and take good time to pray and the image of Christ will work on you and through you. It is an amazing gift of God.

You make known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand. Psalm 16:11

     He provides the deepest joy in this life and He promises us eternal joy in the next. Hang on and be renewed.

     If you don’t know Jesus, turn to Him and believe and be refreshed.

Repent then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts 3:19

Dear Lord,

The best place to be is in Your presence. You give joy and love to the soul. We draw near to You today to seek Your purpose, to live in Your love, to praise Your holy name.

Amen

God Is Enough

 

     Jesus satisfies our needs, not our wants. God is not Santa Claus. He is enough for our situations today. He provides, just as He did for the Israelites, day-by-day. Seek Him for daily nourishment, just as you do for food and water.

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You, my God. Psalm 42:1

     Never stray far from His word, from praising Him, from seeking Him in prayer, and He will be enough. Enough for right now. Let Him renew your strength and be grateful.

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall. But they who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:29

     When my husband suffered a mild stroke in 2009, a friend gave us the verse above. This verse gave us hope when we were scared. We held on to the promises of our God. The verse that precedes the one above, states that God does not grow tired or weary. He is there now and forever, ready to replenish those who are weary and empty. Let Him renew your strength until you are ready to fly again.

Jesus,

Please renew our strength. Be with those feeling tired and alone, fearful and discouraged, those who are mourning, those who are ill.  Lift them up once again in Your mighty strength.

Amen

 

Enduring Love

 

     The need for safety, security and love run deep within us. Unfortunately, not everyone grows up with their essential needs being met. The lost and lonely of the world need unconditional love from our Savior. God can fill the emptiness in our souls. He can be the parent, the husband, the One of our hearts.

I will not leave you as orphans. I will come to you. John 14:18

     God promises to be our loving Father. He calls Himself our bridegroom. He offers protection, hope and love forevermore.

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever. Psalm 136:1

     If you need comfort, if you are tired, if you are lonely, turn to Jesus.

“Come to me, all  you who are weary and heavy burdened and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Father,

You are good. You love us forever and ever. Ease our burdens. You love the orphan and the widow and widower, the single man and woman, the poor and needy. You love me. Your love endures forever. Offer hope and security today and help us bring others to You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Time to Replenish

 

     Times of refreshing are essential for us, for our mind, for our body and for our spirit. I don’t know about you, but there are days I feel drained. Times I am worried or sleepless, times of doubt, times with no energy. There will be moments of unanswered questions, times of grief and uncertainty.

     Let Jesus refresh your soul today with His love. He can satisfy the weariest spirit, the grieving heart, the uncertain future, the worried mind. Let Him be enough today.

“For I will satisfy the weary soul and every languishing soul, I will replenish.” Jeremiah 31:25

     Times of replenishing are necessary as we allow God to satisfy our needs. I find myself even more grateful for friends and family as I age.  Seeing high school friends, attending celebrations with family or taking a walk with my husband are treasured moments. And the grandkids? They brighten up everything with joy and laughter. Call a friend. Go for a walk. Open your heart to someone you love.

    For they refreshed my spirit as well as yours.  Give recognition to such men and women. 1 Corinthians 16:18

     Share a hug. Refresh others or let them replenish you.

Father,

We are grateful for our much-needed time with our friends and family. Teach us how to refresh and rejuvenate those with weary souls around us. Fill them with Your kind of love.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

Refreshed and Confident

 

     What if we try to take the week off from worry, anxiety and doubt? What would it be like to relax in confident trust? Let’s give each other a break this week from comparing our lives with others, from believing we aren’t enough, aren’t doing everything right, aren’t measuring up. In our Father’s eyes, we are seen through the image of Christ.

     How amazing is that?! He no longer views our sinful hearts or our weaknesses and failures. He sees us seated in heaven, cleansed and pure, righteous and holy. Relax in your heavenly Father’s care. He loves you so much He sent His one and only Son to die for you. What more do we need?

This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. 1 John 4:9

     When we take in God’s word, our minds will be transformed and refreshed.

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12:2

Lord,

Keep us refreshed and confident in You this week. We look to You to keep us on track, to fill us with Your promises and love and to offer hope when we need it most.

Amen

Worthy of Praise

 

     Look through the Psalms for words of comfort, for words of encouragement, for words of understanding, for words of forgiveness, for words of hope and praise. The Psalms lead us to the character of God. We can continue to praise Him. He is worthy of our praise.

Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. His greatness no one can fathom. Psalm 145:3

The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever. The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom and their tongues speak what is just. The law of their God is in their hearts. Their feet do not slip. Psalm 37:29-31

     We are only made righteous through Jesus. It is Jesus that wipes the slate clean. It is Jesus that gives us wisdom and justice, Jesus that keeps us from slipping. His word keeps Satan away. His word gives us strength and always, always, hope.

Hope in the Lord and keep His way. He will exalt you to inherit the land. When the wicked are destroyed, you will see it. Psalm 37:34

     King David went through many dark nights of the soul. He cried out to God, time and time again, as we will, too. David’s heart always returned to trust and honor. Here is one example.

Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 42:5

     David repeats these phrases again and again in Psalm 42 and 43. It’s as if he is trying to convince himself to turn back to God. We may have to remind ourselves as well. Looking to God is the answer. I will yet praise Him.

Lord,

Thank You for the Psalms that reflect our lives and bring us back to praise and honor You. You are worthy of praise.

In Jesus name,

Amen

A Firm Step of Faith

 

The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him. Though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.  Psalm 37:23-24

     Stumbled a time or two along the way? Not only do I stumble spiritually, but physically as well. Being legally blind is fraught with unseen danger ahead. Frustration can peak as a knee is bruised, another bump appears on my head, or as I stumble while holding a cup of coffee or knock over yet another glass of water.

     Luckily, the Lord helps me with a sense of humor and a heart of gratitude for all I have. My life is filled with wonderful people in my friends and family, who continue to be patient with me as my eyes deteriorate. Life is good and I am thankful each day.

     I still have central vision to watch the grandkids grow, to gaze at the ocean or the flowers, to see another sunrise or a sunset. All of these things we can take so easily for granted. Here is one of my life verses. I know I have shared it many times, and I am sure I will share it again, but I hold it close to my heart as I stumble through life. Hang on to Jesus. He will give you a firm foundation.

I will lead the blind in ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them. I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do. I will not forsake them. Isaiah 42:16

     Isn’t this a great verse? It gives me hope emotionally, spiritually and physically. God guides us through the tough times, through the dark days, on the paths that are unfamiliar and sometimes frightening. He will never leave us nor forsake us. He will pick us back up, brush us off, and send us on our way. His unfamiliar paths may lead us to new adventures.

Lord,

Your words continually inspire us with Your truth, Your light, Your hope. Give everyone the words they need today, for their hearts and minds and bodies. You give comfort for every aspect of life.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Wait Patiently

 

     As we continue into Psalm 37, we can hear the wisdom emanating from the pen of David. He has lived a life that has not been easy, but God recognized David as a man after His own heart. (see 1 Samuel 13 and Acts 13). David slept with another man’s wife, had her husband killed and later, lived with remorse and shame.

     He did some terrible things in his life, but God recognized him as the one who would be king. He would become reverent, repentant, loving and devoted to God with a humble heart. The Psalms are so beautifully written, echoing the emotions of our own hearts through sorrow, deep regret, forgiveness, fear, loss, and hope. I hope, like David, we find ourselves going back, always, to God, trusting Him, looking to Him for answers, loving Him with our whole heart.

     David learned to trust and let go. Are you waiting for an answer, not sure what to do next? Worried about the future? Have you given everything to God, trusting Him to answer? Let’s read on and see what David says:

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him. Do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath. Do not fret. It leads only to evil. Psalm 37:7-8

     Be still and wait? These days, it is so tough to wait. Staying home, away from others, is so very difficult. Do not fret? There are nights my mind just won’t stop. Are you angry or worried? Are you impatient with waiting?

     We are only human, after all.  Be still and listen for God’s heart. He is in this with us, working for our good. Trust Him, without becoming angry or worried, and turn back to Him when you find it impossible. I’m willing to try, if you are. Let’s be called men and women after God’s own heart.

Father,

Thank You for the words of King David. His life was fraught with sin, anger, danger and worry. His words repeat the very words of our own hearts. The wisdom and the care he shows and shares are valuable for our lives today.. Help us to be still and wait patiently for You. Your timing is perfect.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Commit and Shine

 

     Isn’t it wonderful to be saved by Jesus? No more fretting about death, sins washed clean, past, present and future. He is our righteousness. He suffered all of our sins upon His body. David often wrote in the Psalms about forgiveness, about redemption, about trust and faith. Listen to the beautiful words of King David He went through so much in his life and this Psalm was written by him in his old age.

Commit your way to the Lord, trust in Him, and He will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noon-day sun. Psalm 37:6

     Have you committed your way to Jesus? I hope so. If not, think about acknowledging Him, seeking Him, inviting Him to be your Savior. He is a life-transforming God, alive and well, ready for a relationship and to cover your sins with His holy blood.

     God is pure light. Let Him shine on you like the noon-day sun, giving you the righteous reward of everlasting life, where His light will shine on us forever. I love this blessing. Let it wash over you today. Bask in the Son-shine and reflect the light.

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you, the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you His peace. Numbers 6:24-26

Amen

Trust and Delight

 

Trust in the Lord and do good, dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:3-4

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path. Proverbs 3:5-6

     The verses above are worth some deep thought. Trusting God beyond our own understanding seems impossible. The world around us can turn upside down in an instant, can bring fresh discouragement on a daily basis, or can find us in pure moments of joy. Can we trust God with every single moment and continue to delight in Him?

     God commands us to trust Him beyond the worries, beyond the fear, beyond the grief, beyond the loneliness, beyond our health issues, beyond this life. He will be with us on the path ahead.

     Acknowledge Him in everything around you today, in the morning sun, in the details of the day, in the people around you, in the times you are weary and in the struggles of the day.

     You can trust our Father and His Son and His Holy Spirit to work in you. Delight in Him above all else, and He will give us the desires of our hearts! When we become closer to Him, more intimate in our prayer life and in listening and reading His word, His desires will become our own.

     Trust, delight, acknowledge and watch Him work.

Lord,

You see the path ahead of us and know the future before us. You know the moments of our lives before a word is spoken from our lips. (Psalm 139) How amazing! Keep us steadfast in our faith and trust in You today. Thank You for these words that bring hope.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Love Love Love

 

     I leave you this week with Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians. I pray this over each one of you today. Grasp the love and the power available to you each and every day ever after.

For this reason, I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of His glorious riches, He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know the love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever! Amen

Love Love Love

 

     When we see the world around us with the spiritual eyes of love, we can look beyond the irritating, the annoying, the physical appearance, the hate, the emotionally unstable, the lost and lonely and see the hurt, the confusion, the fear and the hopelessness.

     People act and react from deep hurt and mistrust, from unstable environments, from misunderstanding, from mistreatment and from walls built up over a lifetime. Love sees through. Love covers the sin.

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

Be kind, one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as in Christ, God has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32

     I have a multitude of sins. The love of Christ covers them all. Let’s love deeply and unconditionally and forgive graciously, because that is what Christ does for us.

Jesus,

How can we love like You? Help us to see hearts and not outward appearance or outward actions. Love covers sin.

Amen

Love Love Love

 

     Jesus asks us to love in a radically different way than we would naturally love without Him and His Holy spirit. Without them, we are filled with anger, with pride, with unforgiveness, with competitiveness, with an attitude that we are better than others.

     Christ, through His example, through His living word, through prayer, through His Spirit, gives us the ability to grow in spiritual wisdom, to grow in love, even to the point of loving our enemies. What? I can’t do that, can you?

     With His help, we can. Listen to the very words of Christ, giving us advice on what to do with our enemies.

But love your enemies. Do good to them and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Luke 6:35

     But, did you see what he did? Did you hear what she said? He drives me crazy! I can’t stand her!

     We feel and say and question. How? With Christ. He was kind to us. He saved us when we lived so far apart from God. He is humble and kind and generous and compassionate. Let’s try. We represent Him. What do others see in you that represents Jesus? Let it be love.

     As we struggle with all of this, remember. God is the one to hand out justice. He is the one who sees the heart and He is the one who will seek vengeance one day for His children. As we do good, even to our enemies, He will work it all out.

On the contrary, when your enemy is hungry, feed him, if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head. Romans 12:20

Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written, “It is mine to avenge. I will repay,” says the Lord. Romans 12:19

     Now, that’s more like it! God will take care of evil, in its time. For now, we are to reach out to everyone in the name of Jesus and His love.

Lord,

You understand our emotions, our minds and our sinful hearts. We want to be more like You, but some days it seems to be impossible! When we love our enemies, you will handle the rest. We love You and we want to love like You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Love Love Love

 

     The rain is tapping on the windows of our office this early morning. I love rainy days, although it means missing out on outdoor activities. Even on the cloudiest of days, we always have the love and light of the Son.

     Stop for a minute. Take a deep breath and fill your heart with the love of Christ. Feeling lonely or unworthy? You are a beloved child of the King. The Holy Spirit that raised Christ from the dead now lives within you as a believer.

And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of His Spirit who lives in you. Romans 8:11

     As His beloved family, we are alive spiritually. Those without the Spirit are like the walking dead, trying to find life in the world around them. Live as children of the light. Live in the confidence of the risen Christ. Live as one spiritually alive with the power of the Holy Spirit within. See others with the love and spiritual eyes of Christ and give them His love.

You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. 1 Thessalonians 5:5

Jesus,

Remind us of the power we have available to us because of Your great love. Your Father has filled us with the very Spirit that raised You from the dead! We are alive in You. Show us Your ways and Your thoughts that are above the ways of the world.

Amen

 

Love Love Love

 

     Just a reminder. God loves you. He loves you so much, He sent His Son to die for you. Every sin, every wrong thought, every fear, every shame-filled moment was nailed to the cross. He suffered every sin and He overcame death. For you. There is no greater love.

Greater love has no one than this; to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13

     No greater love. The gap was too large to bridge. God could not and cannot look at sin. Thank God, He sees us now through the image of Christ, and when we believe in Jesus as Savior, we will be with Him now, every single day of our lives and we will be with Him forever.

He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live with Him. 1 Thessalonians 5:10

Lord,

Your love knows no bounds. You willingly died for us, shedding Your holy blood on the cross, as You experienced all of the darkness and despair of this world. We pray for those who do not yet know You, that their hearts may be open to Your sacrificial, unconditional, heavenly love.

Amen

 

Heart Treasures

 

     How is the condition of your heart? Is it troubled, angry, resentful, bitter or joy-filled, hopeful or passionate? True treasures lie within our hearts. If Jesus and His word are the greatest treasures in our life, the condition of our hearts will reflect His life, filled with inner peace, joy, hope and love. Count on it.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Luke 12:34

Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise. Apply your heart to what I teach. Proverbs 22:17

God is not interested in the outer man, how we look, how we dress, what we drive, where we live.  He always looks at the heart.

For the Lord sees not as man sees. Man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart. 1 Samual 16:7b

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles or the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 1 Peter 3:3-4

Lord,

Check the condition of our hearts. Help us to pay attention and to turn our ears to Jesus. He treasures the things of the heart. He understands what we need. Turn our attention to what He teaches, and our hearts will be filled with true riches.

Amen

 

More Precious Than Gold

 

    We have God’s word. The more we study, the more it becomes alive. It is active, sharper than a two-edged sword. (Hebrews 4:12)   It gives us everything we need to live a faith-filled life Every word is Spirit-breathed and useful. (2 Timothy 3:16)    It is a most precious treasure.

And the words of the Lord are flawless, like silver purified in a crucible, like gold refined seven times. Psalm 12:6

The law from Your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold. Psalm 119:72

     God’s word is flawless. Every word is completely true and God-breathed. The fulfilled prophecies of old have been 100% accurate, with many more prophecies to be fulfilled before the second coming of Christ. Can you imagine how our lives would change if we believed the word holds the greatest treasures available to us? With Scripture in our hearts, we can remain pure in God’s love and not dragged into the ways of the world. What if we spend more time in it? What if we take the time to study and grow? Imagine the difference it would make to our lives and to the people around us. Dig into the treasures, the eternal, the hope, the peace and the joy that our God offers.

Jesus,

You are the word come to life. (John 1) Remind us to put down our phones, to sit still and study, to seek You in the Bible. The truth will set us free! Your truth is filled with great treasures, more precious than silver and gold.

Amen

Things Above

 

     Heavenly wisdom comes as we keep our focus on the unseen, on things above. Our circumstances can overwhelm and confuse. God is so much higher and so much wiser. He knows the end from the beginning. Focus your eyes, your mind and your heart on Jesus. He’s got this.

Since then, you have been seated with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary and what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18

     All of this is temporary, our belongings, our stress, our grief and our worry, even our very lives. Our true home awaits.  God is so much bigger than what we see.

Jesus,

Keep us focused on the eternal, on the unseen, on things above where our true home and treasures lie. We become consumed with details, with busyness, with overwhelming obstacles. With You, we can have all things. Give us your peace.

Amen

 

Heavenly Wisdom

   

     Be encouraged as you read the Scriptures below. The full riches of heaven are found in Jesus Christ. You believe in Him. You ask Him to be your Savior, and there the exciting journey begins. As He guides your life and mine, we grow in true understanding of what is good and true, what is valuable and worthy of our time.

My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Colossians 2:2-3

     In Jesus we discover the hidden treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I would like to grow in His wisdom. How about you? The Creator of the universe gives us understanding? How is it possible? With God, all things are possible.Ask Him

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5

Lord,

Keep growing us in Your kind of wisdom, in the mysteries of Your heavenly power. It is difficult to grasp the enormity of what You offer to us through Your word. Your wisdom is beyond anything of earthly value. Keep us hunting for the hidden treasures of Jesus.

Amen

Treasures in Heaven

 

     The riches of God are not tangible. Most of the treasures of heaven are not visible. The Bible tells us to keep our attention focused above, on the unseen, counting up our treasures for heaven. This week we will talk about the true riches of God and how to find them. Where do we look? What are they? What pleases God? How will we know when we find our true treasures?

     The rewards of heaven are heart-based. God looks at our motives. As we humbly serve God and love in His name, our treasures in heaven will grow. The love of Christ given freely will bring true blessings to our lives right now, to our future days on earth and will follow us into the new heaven and the new earth.

But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6;20-21

     Give God your day and ask Him to flow through you as you go to work, as you talk to your family, as you greet strangers, and rely on His complete love to shine through you. And that pile of treasures? It’s worth more than silver and gold.

Lord,

Give us eyes to see true treasures, the things in life that are measured in the heart. Guide our hearts to be wide open, to change lives, to seek kindness, to love mercy, to love the unlovable, to forgive, to be different in a cold and calculating world. Only with Your help, can we do it.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Creation's Groans

 

     As we ponder God’s creation, we also understand that we live in a fallen world. Along with the fall of mankind, creation fell along with us. In Romans Chapter 8, we read these words.

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, grown inwardly, as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. Romans 8:22-23

     As the coming of Jesus draws ever closer, the earth will be as if it were in childbirth. Jesus calls them “birth pangs.”  As we have witnessed, storms have increased, wars are on the increase, as well as earthquakes and more. (See Matthew 24 and Luke 21)

     My prayers are with those suffering in Texas right now. Our good friends lost everything with hurricane Ida a few years ago. These tragedies are hard to understand when we think of our loving God.  He has told  us of the future and of the coming glory. In the meantime, we pray and we wait expectantly and we look up.

When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. Luke 21:28

Father,

We pray for all of those affected by floods and famine, from storms and war. Our hearts break from such unimaginable grief. You tell us what to look for and we wait expectantly for You. Comfort us with Your presence.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

 

God's Creative Design

 

     We have been appreciating and discussing God’s magnificent creation this week. That includes you! You are His handiwork and don’t you forget it. He needs you and He loves you.

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

     God knew you before you were born. He understands how you are made, your personality, your family, your gifts and talents and He planned good things for you to do, according to His plan. This is fascinating, isn’t it? Let Him guide you throughout your days and you will be surprised at the encounters and the opportunities set before you and your ability to use your God-given gifts to serve Him.

     What a privilege to represent Him to our loved ones and to our communities and to strangers throughout our lives. I wish I had known Him much earlier in my life. I am more than grateful that our daughters know and love Him. Are you ready for His plan? It’s an adventure filled with blessings! And He will meet your every need.

And God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

Out of His fullness we have all received grace upon grace in place of grace already given. John 1:15

Lord,

You never run out of the grace we need. We can never fall too far away from Your goodness, Your forgiveness. Your grace is always sufficient to meet our every need. Send us out to do Your works in the world around us. We are Your handiwork.

In Jesus name,

Amen

God's Creative Design

 

     Think about the resources, the time and the thought that has gone into some of the conveniences we enjoy today, from microwaves to I-phones, from airplanes to driving our own cars. To think God created us to be able to create, to build, to invent, to discover so many new and improved ideas and inventions.

     Imagine the thoughts and ways of our God! It is impossible, as we know from this verse in Isaiah:

“For your thoughts are not my thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9

     I simply can’t comprehend how anyone can believe that the universe just “happened” into being by some random cosmic force. The design of each tree, the color and shape and variety of each flower, the koala bear’s nose, the bunnies ears, the horse’s hoof, the zebra’s stripes, the giraffe’s neck, the lion’s mane, the flow of the streams to the rivers, to the magnitude of the ocean, the majesty of the mountains, the uniqueness of each individual human, each individual snowflake, the miracle of birth, one heart beat as blood cells, veins and arteries course through our bodies.

     When we sit and concentrate on all of creation, we know there has to be a grand design, a plan, a Creator and He is God of all.  Jesus is the heart of all we see, taste, touch, feel and hear. Listen to these two verses about our Lord.

Through Him all things were made. Without Him, nothing was made that has been made. John 1:3

For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities. All things have been created through Him and for Him. Colossians 1:16

     “All things?” Everything created around us is because of Him. Amazing! Praise him as you look around. Appreciate the breath of life today, the birds and the trees, the rocks and the seas, all because of Him.

Father,

Thank You for Your thoughts and Your ways, so much higher than our own. You give us much more than we can hope for or imagine. Keep us filled with gratefulness for each day on this earth, the works of Your hands.

In Jesus name,

Amen

God's Creative Design

 

     Are you inspired by God’s creation? Do you long to sit by the ocean, hike in the mountains, or do you have a favorite tree, flower or animal? Miraculous creatures, stunning views, quirky plants, flower-eating bunnies (not so cute) and my particular favorite, palm trees, are available for our pleasure.

     To think God created all of this for me and for you! There is so much we take for granted each and every day, including the sunrise and sunset, the moon and the stars, the air that we breathe. I am grateful. Take a deep breath. Look out the window and marvel at the sights and sounds. There is a robin right outside our window that greets the sunrise for us. I have heard this robin for years. My husband laughs when I say it’s my friend.  Our grandson, Gavin, thinks the robin stops by to see him. I believe it, too.

     I have a wall of palm tree pictures taken on some of our vacations. These wonderful trees come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Tall and willowy, short and stubby, long palm strands or short. I’ve even named some of my favorites, as if they have personalities of their own. I bet heaven will be filled with even more of God’s glorious creativity, but I am convinced palm trees will be with us. Maybe my special place will be surrounded by them.

     Scripture shows that in the building of the Jewish temples, the carvings showed the angels (cherubim and seraphim) surrounded by palm trees. (1 Kings 6) The earth sings in praise to the Lord. Let’s join the chorus as we marvel at the beauty around us.

You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace. The mountains and hills will burst into song before You, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. Isaiah 55:12

The heavens declare the glory of God and the sky above proclaims His handiwork. Psalm 19:1

Father,

We praise You for all of creation today, for the miraculous sights and sounds of the earth and for the beauty of heaven that will be ours one day. We can never thank and praise You enough.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

God's Creative Design

 

     Everything in all of God’s creation points to Jesus. The earth was made for our enjoyment, but all of it, including us, was created to show His glory. I love to think about how God uses everything to show us who He is. In Scripture, over and over again, the ways and means of nature are brought about to show us who God is and how we relate to Christ.

     Today, let’s think about the birds that raise their heads to greet the sunrise, giving glory to God’s name. The head of the sunflower follows the sun throughout the day, seeking light, as we do. Seeds planted by the farmer need to die before they are brought to glorious life.

Let every created thing give praise to the Lord, for He issued His command and they came into being. Psalm 148:4

     In John 15, Jesus is the vine and we are the branches.  Only when we are rooted deep in the nourishment of Christ, will we bloom for Him.

“I am the vine. You are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit. Apart from Me, you can do nothing.” John 15:5

     Jesus is our rock, sturdy, solid, keeping our foundation from falling. He is the Lion of Judah, the Lamb of God. As you witness His creation, see how everything brings glory to the Creator of heaven and earth. Call on the Lamb, the Lion, the Rock and the true Vine. Let’s raise our heads, along with the birds of the air and the flowers of the earth. He is to be praised!

He will call out to Me, “You are my Father, my God, the Rock, my Savior.” Psalm 89:26

But the Lord has become my fortress, and my God, the Rock in whom I take refuge. Psalm 94:22

     Let’s praise Him for all He has given us.

Before the mountains were born or You brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. Psalm 90:2

Lord,

We praise You for the many ways You reveal Yourself to us. Open our eyes to new beauty and truth today, as we move into the world. You are all around us and we worship and praise You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Philosophies of Life

 

     This week, we have found quiet time, made a song from our rocky paths and found the time to find joy and dance! I pray you will have some relaxation this weekend as we celebrate this wonderful country. America gives us freedom and democracy and a hope for our future.  Keep praying for our country and keep praying for each other.

“For I know the plans I have for you,,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:1

If my people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

     Celebrate, relax, savor, sing, dance, find hope and may God bless America!  See you Monday.

Father,

We are grateful for the blessings we find each day. We treasure our freedom and the long history of Christianity in our land. May many find You and return to You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

 

Philosophies of Life

 

     “I Hope You Dance,” became a special song for us and our girls when they were growing up. Our youngest daughter loves to dance and was on her high school dance team. The words are precious.  Listen to them if you can today    

     The lyrics include, “Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance, and if you have the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance.” King David danced in the streets as he brought the ark of the covenant back to Israel. Miriam, the sister of Moses, played the tambourine as they celebrated. The Israelites sang as they ascended the hills to the temple.

     Sing praises to God. Dance when you can. Find joy often in the little things. And, please give the havens above more than just a passing glance!

The young women will dance and be glad, young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into gladness. I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. Jeremiah 31:13

Let them praise His name with dancing and make music to Him with timbrel and harp. Psalm 149:3

You turned my mourning into dancing. You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy. Psalm 30:11

     I hope you dance.

Father,

We give thanks for music and joy. Music brings back memories and echoes within our hearts. We do give You more than just a passing glance always. We praise Your mighty name today.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Philosophies of Life

 

     A saying I heard decades ago has stayed with me over the years. “A brook would lose its song if God removed the rocks.”  Isn’t that beautiful? As we look back over our lives, we remember the times we have stumbled, the rock-strewn paths we maneuvered, the giant boulders we believed we would never scale or make our way around.

     Are you on a rocky path or in a seemingly impossible situation? God uses our struggles to bring glory to His name. The journey isn’t easy, but He will help us through, around or over the burdens. He offers us comfort through our grief and suffering, so one day, we too, can comfort others. The rocks create a song of life

     Because of my eye disease, I literally stumble all the time. Here is a verse meant just for me. (You can share it, too.)

“I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them. I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do. I will not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16

     Delight in God and He will find a way just for you.

The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him, though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds Him with His hand. Psalm 23-24

     God lifts us from the deepest holes, protects us from ourselves as we move into a wrong decision, finds a way around a tricky corner and holds us fast as we stumble

He will not let your foot slip-He who watches over you will not slumber. Psalm 121:3

Lord,

Thank You for Your 24/7 watch over us. We need it!  Remove the rocks before us and lift us up again and again. We put our trust in You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Philosophies of Life

 

     The month of June has been a busy one for us, three weeks of grandkid care with two sleepovers squeezed in, birthday celebrations, two out-of-town funerals, two high school graduation open houses and outings with friends (including one today!)  We are so blessed. We are so tired. I am feeling the need for some quiet time.  Being an introvert at heart finds me longing for solitude.

     In Italy, there is a saying, “dolce far niente,” translated to “the sweetness of doing nothing.”  Count me in. Their philosophy does not call for being lazy, rather savoring moments in life, relaxing at times during the day, to breathe in life.

     I learned of this wonderful saying (where else) on the Hallmark Channel, where all great philosophies are found. When you need quiet time, know that God is willing to sit awhile with you, to comfort, to bring peace, to walk in nature with you, to remind you of His love.

Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, He said to them, “Come away with Me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31

He says, “Be still and know that I am God.”  Psalm 46:10a

     Take time to be still, to enjoy the sweetness of doing nothing, to find a quiet place for yourself.

Jesus,

Remind us of our need to be still, to savor the moments of life, to be quiet with You and to listen. Heal our busy minds and hearts with goodness and peace.

Amen

 

Under His Wings

 

     There are so many Psalms to choose from, each one finding God through all of life’s ups and downs. The 91^st Psalm is one of protection, reminding us of the One in charge. The One who counts the hairs on our head (Matthew 10) and the stars in the sky (Psalm 147), the One who counts the number of our days. (Psalm 139)

     Trust Him with your life. Talk to Him in trust and hope. Ask for His peace. He will honor you and your life, from today ‘til forever. Take refuge in Him.

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “he is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. Psalm 91:1-2

He will cover you with His feathers and under His wings you will find refuge. His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. Psalm 91:4

     Acknowledge Him in all you do. Praise Him both in joy and sorrow. His protection remains firm and forever.

“Because he loves Me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him. I will protect him, for he acknowledges My name. He will call on Me and I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him.” Psalm 91:14-15

Father,

The Psalms echo deep within us as we turn to You for answers, for protection, and to praise You no matter our circumstances. You remain steadfast and true. Protect us and guide us. Please protect and give strength to those in danger and in grief. Give them hope.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Deep Calls to Deep

 

     Seeking God during times of deep grief and heartache may seem an impossible feat. If you find yourself in a difficult time, let the Psalms speak for you. Psalm 42 is a beautiful Psalm penned by a man in deep sorrow. Listen to the first verse.

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. Psalm 42:1

     Have you found yourself in a desert, panting for something to sooth your soul? Jesus tells us He is the living water. (John 4:14) Those that find Him will never be thirsty again. Let your soul pant for the presence of Christ and He will meet your needs.

     In both verses 6 and 11, David cries out in lament. Why, he asks, is his soul downcast? Even in his grief, He turns to God and praises Him. Praising our God from the depths reminds us of who He is. He will bring us through. He will give us living water. He will refresh our soul. His voice calls to and meets the very deepest parts of us.

Deep calls to deep in the roar of Your waterfalls, all your waves and breakers have swept over me. Psalm 42:7

     Let the living water of Jesus and these words wash over you, cleanse you and give you His peace.

Father,

Thank You for these words that meet us in the depths. We cry to You. We praise You, even when we find ourselves in a desert land. Give us hope today as You take our hand and walk with us and quench our deepest thirst.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Our Faithful God

 

     Another of the many Psalms to savor is the 37^th Psalm. When the world feels out of control, when you see evil rising and wonder, “Where is God?” this Psalm will bring comfort and a firm foundation. Our God will vindicate. Through Jesus, our righteous reward remains steadfast and forever. Delight yourself in Him and trust Him, above all you see in this temporal world. He will keep us safe as we trust Him.

Trust in the Lord and do good. Dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:3-4

     These two verses speak volumes to us in how to live life. “Trust in God! Do good!  Take delight in the Lord! He will give you the desires of your heart!”  So much promise and truth for us. When we look to Him in faith and in trust, our desires will match His will and we will find peace and joy right in the midst of chaos and evil.

     One day soon, God will vanquish evil and we will inherit the new heaven and the new earth. Hang on to this hope.

A little while, and the wicked will be no more. Though you look for them, they will not be found. But the meek will inherit the land and will enjoy peace and prosperity. Psalm 37:10-11

     Finally, in this Psalm, God gives us a promise. Even though we stumble, (and we will!) He will lead us into forever.

The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him. Though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand. Psalm 37:23-24

Lord,

We take refuge in You as you uphold us with Your hand. Keep Your words in our hearts as we make our way in the world. May evil be vanquished and freedom reign. One day all will be new. Forever awaits.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

Words and Meditation

 

     Psalm 19 is one of my favorites. This Psalm combines the majesty of nature, with the wonder of God’s word, two of the places we witness the truth and splendor of our Lord. There are only 14 verses. I invite you to read through them today.

     As you venture outside, take in the sights and sounds, the warmth of the sunshine, the cleansing rain, the way the earth is set in the universe, day and night, sunrise and sunset. As the birds welcome the morning light and the nocturnal animals set out in the nighttime hours, as the trees and flowers bloom with the promise of new life, take time to thank God.

     And search God’s word as if hunting for silver and gold. The wisdom found there is much more precious to us, much more valuable. Ask God to reveal the hidden things of your heart, to bring them out in the light of His countenance. This Psalm ends with a verse I speak out often to our Lord.

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, my Rock and my Redeemer.  Psalm 19:14

     May our hearts and our words bring honor to Jesus, today and tomorrow.

Lord,

The words speak to the deepest parts of our soul. We praise You today for Your creation that welcomes us to rise each morning and gives us rest each night. We praise You for Your word and how it reaches in to meet us right where we are. May our words be pleasing to You, our Rock and our Redeemer.

In Jesus name,

Amen