An Embarrassment and God's Cathedral

The following post is from October 2023 when I went to a writer's conference in Cook Forest, a few miles from my home. I like this post because of the beautiful picture of "God's Cathedral" at the end of the post. I also like it because I went from embarrassment to glory that day. I hope you enjoy.

Beauty to Come. Walking through the woods.

I was at the writer's conference this past Saturday. The conference center was surrounded by woods in beautiful Cook Forest State Park. 

The conference didn't start out well. My confession: Sometimes I don't understand simple words, meanings and pronunciation. This has been a lifelong disadvantage. I've concluded that my brain just isn't able to remember words and meanings that I don't use often. That can be a disadvantage and an embarrassment.

The first session in the conference we had a simple assignment of a simile exercise. I couldn't remember what simile means. My written response was: "I have absolutely no idea what to write about. My imagination doesn't even come close to doing what I've been asked to do. I can't even remember what a simile is. Sometimes I feel stupid that I can't grasp what other people seem to have no problem doing. I just accept that these are my limitations and there is nothing I can do about it so why get upset. I know what I am able to do, so I will concentrate on doing that and be happy with my accomplishments. I have acceptance within myself and that is a good thing." Thankfully, we did not have to turn in our assignment.

I managed to get through the morning exercises. I was most interested in hearing advice and tips for writing. I tried not to let the exercises bother me.

The afternoon assignment was outside. We were to walk in the woods, choose an object and observe sounds, smells, textures, colors, shade and surfaces, writing about what it brought to mind. It didn't interest me. The only thing I could think about as I stood before the entrance to the woods was God.

"That's what I will write about," I decided. As I walked into the woods my first thought was, "I'm walking into God's cathedral. He is here, all around me." 

First, I heard the chirping of insects. I basked in the sound. The noise was smooth as a stone as they sang their song. I stood in one place, turning a quarter of the way around, looking and listening. Then I would turn another quarter around, until the circle was made. 

The third turn brought bright light shining down upon me. A break in the treetops let the sunshine through completely covering me, enveloping me in God's warmth. He came down from heaven for me. 

"How mighty He is," I thought. Strong as a rock and bold as a lion; gentle as a lamb. "How magnificent is His glory." I was standing in His sanctuary filled unashamedly with gratitude and thankfulness.

As I turned to my original position, color caught my eye, I looked up. Bright yellow and orange at the top of the trees shown through. Brilliant blue in the sky was behind the fall color. That's when I snapped the picture below.

 

The "Black Bear Trail."

I stood there for some time admiring God's creation. Smiling, I turned and walked out of the woods, my heart full and my mind at rest. I had completed the assignment in my own way and met God in the process.

The confusion and embarrassment of the morning evaporated for I had stood in God's cathedral and felt His presence. What a glorious experience! God shared His glory with me and encouraged my heart.

We all have our limitations and feelings of embarrassment and disappointment. Our God doesn't leave us there. If we just look and listen, we can hear His voice and see His splendor. Aren't you thankful for that!

. . . and hopefully see a deer or two!

By His Grace . . .

A Firm Foundation

Following is an article I wrote for my church's newsletter in 2022: 

Our foundation is firm in God. As the hymn "How Firm a Foundation" says: "His Word is our foundation." The first two lines of the hymn reveal this: "How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord, is laid for your faith in His excellent Word."

Knowing our foundation is sure in Christ, we can live our life in total confidence of our faith. That helps me to always feel strong and able as I go about my day because I am strong in Christ.

The last verse of this great hymn should be steadfast in our mind and heart: "The soul that on Jesus doth lean for repose, I will not, I will not desert to his foes; That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake, I'll never, no never, no never forsake."

Every time I sing "I'll never, no never, no never forsake" I stop and consider those words. "Never" can be a tricky word. I've said "never" a few times in my life and found myself eating those words in the future. So when I sing that line, I always make a mental note that it is firm in my mind that I mean "never."

Kenneth W. Osbeck said this in his devotion book "Amazing Grace":  "A believer's stability in this life, as well as his confidence for eternity, rests solely on the written promises of God's Word. The direction of the living God for our lives is very definite. It is found in a firm foundation--the written revelation: 'Thus saith the Lord.'"

Another great hymn that shares about our firm foundation is "The Church's One Foundation." The first line says: "The church's one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord."

"We have everything we need in the foundation God planned for us. It stands firm. Our faith in Jesus as Savior and Lord cannot be swayed.  For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 3:11

With such a firm foundation to live by we are filled each day with strength, courage, stamina, confidence and truth.

With Gods foundation our life stands firm! Charles Spurgeon wrote: "May He be the foundation of everything, not only of the church, but of our hope, of our character, of every little thing we do!"

2 Timothy 2:19 says: . . . "God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: 'The Lord knows those who are His. And the Word is Jesus.'"

Stand with me and know in your heart that you will "never forsake" our Savior, Jesus.

 By His Grace . . .

 

This Old House

Last week I watched the Gaither Homecoming video called “Something Beautiful.” Near the end, J. D. Sumner, bass singer, sang, “The Lord Still Lives in This Old House,” as a tribute to God through his life.

As I sat there and watched, I thought: “I could sing that song.” I live in an old house, an old body, snow on my head and rusted hinges. I wonder how many of my friends could sing this song.

Here’s what it says:

“If this earthly tabernacle should be dissolved today,

I'd trade it for a finer one that would not pass away.

But 'til the day arrives when it's time for moving out,

It's such sweet peace to know the Lord still lives in this old house.

“The sweetest fellowship I've known has fortified these walls.

And peace has reigned since He's been won up and down these halls.

With snow upon the rooftop now and these hinges near worn out,

It's such a joy to know the Lord still lives in this old house.

“To Him it's been a dwelling place where He kept my hand in His.

To me a home away from Home is all it really is.

It sure ain't fine or fancy, and all I can boast about

Is after all these years, the Lord still lives in this old house.

“There were times He had the right to up and move away.

And there were times it took His great amazing Grace to stay.

But He never left this old building once, that's why I can sing and shout!

'Cause after all these years the Lord still lives in this old house.”

Yes, my house is getting old. I forget things I’ve been doing for years. I walk slower and hold on to more things so I don’t fall. I'm dropping things all the time. I can’t eat all that chocolate anymore or I’ll suffer the consequences

My house is not fine and fancy, but it’s been my home down here. If it wasn’t for God’s Grace, He may have left me for all the grief I’ve gave Him.

I’m thankful for this old house. I’ve never known fellowship with anyone like I’ve known with Him. The kind of fellowship that sustains you through all the years of heartbreak, pain and grief.

I hope you can sing and shout with hallelujahs because God has never left you. After all these years He still lives in this old house.

By His Grace . . .

Celebrating Lillordag

Early Fall in NW PA . . . fields of goldenrod.

 

Recently I read an article in “The Cozy Issue” by Bella Grace that changed my idea of Wednesdays. The article title was “Celebrating Lillordag.” Now just what is Lillordag?

It’s compared to America’s “hump days” for Wednesdays. Also know as “little Saturday.” It is a Nordic cultural tradition whereby Wednesdays are viewed as opportunities for little weekend celebrations. Instead of trudging through a five-day week, why not break it up with a little indulgence, a big of fun, every Wednesday?

“Hump day” is sometime known as “the toughest day of the week.” Or “just getting through the week.” The “longest day between the weekend.” When you’re working it does seem to be a long day.

I remember as a new Christian my church had services on Wednesdays. There was a meal before the meeting and singing and prayer before the study. Then each person went to a specific class to study other topics.

It was during these Wednesday meetings that I attended the “Sermon on the Mount” class. My pastor taught a nine-month class on the “Sermon on the Mount” for new Christians. It was a highlight of my week. It was a celebration to me!

I attended the class two years because I enjoyed it so much and I learned so much about being a Christian. I even purchased the 30 cassette tapes of the class and listened to them several times through the years. I don’t know what happened to them, but if I had them, I’d listen to them again.

Those are special memories that I will always consider with fondness.

We love a reason to celebrate, even when it’s for the tiniest moments, like making it halfway through the week. Do you have something you do each week to celebrate? Something that inspires you, encourages you or teaches you? It might be time to schedule a little celebrating into your week!

It’s always fun to add something different to your day. A little fun. Some relaxing minutes. A change to make the day happier.

Give it a try! Celebrate Lillordag!

By His Grace . . .

Desires of Your Heart

 

I enjoy reading fiction stories. One of the writers I’ve read is Beverly Lewis. She writes Amish fiction. I hadn’t read any of her books for a number of years and decided to read them again and then pass them on.

One of my favorites is titled “The Fiddler.” I enjoy the story, but this time as I read, something popped out at me that I missed the other times I read it. “The desires of our heart.”

This is from Psalm 37:4 which says: “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

When we read about the desires of our heart, we mainly think of those things that we want that make us happy. I’ve thought of seeing a glorious sunrise, a visit with far away friends, a good meal to celebrate a happy occasion. But the words I read in the story caused me to pause. I’m sure I’ve heard a sermon about this before, but I just don’t remember. Here’s what was written:

“She [the Wise Woman] once quoted a Bible verse from a psalm to me: ‘Delight thyself also in the Lord: and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart.’ Then she went on to explain that when our lives line up with God’s will, the desire referred to means Him. The Lord Himself.” Michael paused, eyes brighter now. “It’s not so much that we desire things or circumstances to change, she says, but that we’ve always desired our heavenly Father. He is our first true love.” Beverly Lewis, The Fiddler

I looked the verse up in some commentaries and found this to be true.

ExplainingtheBible.com: “When we read Psalms 37:4, we encounter a powerful promise that comes with a beautiful condition. At its core, this verse encourages us to delight ourselves in the Lord. This means that our joy, satisfaction, and happiness should come from our relationship with God. It is a reminder that our true happiness can be found in following Him and embracing His will for our lives.

“The next phrase, “and He will give you the desires of your heart,” emphasizes the relationship between our hearts and God’s will. God is not only interested in our immediate wants but desires to establish a deep connection with us. As our hearts change, so will our desires, demonstrating a beautiful exchange where we begin to want what God wants for us. We experience fulfillment not just in getting what we long for but in a deeper walk with God, filling our hearts with His joy and purpose.”

Studylight.org, Gill’s Exposition of the Whole Bible: “And He shall give thee the desires of thine heart; such as are according to the will of God, and for the good of His people; such as relate to communion with Him, and to the communication of more grace from Him, and to the enjoyment of eternal glory.”

These words gave me the opportunity to reconsider the desires of my heart and what God is really communicating in this verse. It’s not about me and my wants. It’s about Him and His purpose. When I read this Scripture again, I will be more inclined to stop and consider what God really wants.

And all this from a fiction book. God can reach you anywhere. You just have to be open to His appearance wherever you are.

By His Grace . . . 

 

Cinema of Remembrance

 

Last week I looked through one of my memory boxes. Maybe I did it because we lost our Jo last week, and I just needed to remember some good things that happened through my years. I don't know. But I do know, reminding yourself of good memories can cheer you and help you continue on through life, no matter what you're going through.

I’ve been putting items in my memory boxes for 40 years. Things I want to remember, good things, accomplished things, grateful things, that I have done through my life.

My memory boxes help to encourage me, inspire me and to be thankful for all God has done for me. There will come a time when my memory will fade. The items I have saved will help me remember what I went through and what I did. In some ways it’s like a journal where you record the happenings in your life.

My memory boxes help me to see how I've grown and how events in my life have affected my future work. Perhaps it seems a little egotistical, but I believe we need to be reminded of what we’ve done, reminders of the good things that have shaped us and melded us into the person we are. When I saw the above graphic, I liked it!

I don’t know about you, but I seem to recall mostly negative things from my life, and I try to get rid of them as soon as I realize it! I’m thankful I have something I can go to that is filled with positive things for me to reflect on.

My sister crocheted me a brown blanket for my queen size bed in my late twenties. My favorite color is brown. I loved that blanket. The picture I found in the memory box showed I had that brown blanket when we moved to PA. It was on a chair we purchased after we moved here. I hadn’t seen that blanket in a while, so I went searching for it, pulled it out, and it’s now folded on a bed in the small bedroom.

I found two poems I wrote when I was 28, the first year I was saved. Writing poems were my first attempts at writing. I have an envelope filled with most of those poems. I was in my twenties when I started writing poems.

I found cards and notes that were sent to me during my cancer treatments in 2015. Seeing the notes, I  immediately touched base with a friend that had encouraged me during that time.

A copy of the copywrite for the book I wrote is in there and a post card of the front of my book. My life dream was to have an article published and write a book. My first published article was about Jerry’s truck, and I was paid $100. My self-published book, where I learned all you go through to publish a book, was a dream come true. Guideposts created a Unit called Inspiring Voices. They helped me publish the book. A CD of the class I gave on note writing to encourage is in there. 

Things friends had done for me through the years that touched my heart are in the box. They showed me what friends do for each other, like the poem my friend, Diana, wrote about me.

Wedding and anniversary pictures of Jerry and me through the years. A copy of the certificate that Jerry gave me on our first anniversary when he had a star named after me. Somewhere out there in space, there is Carol Ann Mc Giffin shining bright!

A copy of a staff recognition in the church newsletter when I worked in a church office. It is especially meaningful because I never thought I could work in a church office because I was divorced.

A diploma for the course I took with Writer’s Digest on “Writing to Sell Non-Fiction.” I had an article published while I was taking the course. I was so proud to tell my instructor about it!

The invitation I sent to my friends for my “Celebration of Friends” party for my 55th birthday. That brought back wonderful memories.

My favorite envelope! “Make a mailbox happy, send a card!” My first writing room where I started writing notes to encourage.

Seeing all these things gave me multiple reasons to thank God for what He has done in my life. I truly don’t think I would have achieved most of the things I’m thankful for if I hadn’t found Jesus and became a child of God.

So, I thank Him greatly for working in my life and giving me reasons to be happy and productive for Him.

Those are just a few of the things I was reminded of when I looked through my memory box. If you’ve never started keeping items that mean a lot to you, or writing in a journal, I highly recommend it. There is enough in life to keep us down, and we’ve all experienced those sad and heart-breaking times. Instead, fill your heart with pleasant memories and thank God for giving you something to do. I sure do!

Since Jesus Came Into My Heart

“What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought

Since Jesus came into my heart!

I have light in my soul for which long I have sought,

Since Jesus came into my heart!

Refrain:

“Since Jesus came into my heart,

Since Jesus came into my heart,

Floods of joy o'er my soul like the sea billows roll,

Since Jesus came into my heart.”

By His Grace . . .

Let's Go to Higher Ground

I read a devotion recently in the book, “100 Favorite Hymns” on the hymn, “Higher Ground,” that beckons us to be lifted up to greater heights! It caused me to consider: “Just what is higher ground?”

We’re familiar with the song lyrics: “I’m pressing on the upward way, New heights I’m gaining every day; Still praying as I’m onward bound, Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

Stacy Edwards, author of the book, wrote: “Higher Ground is a call to every believer to seek a more mature faith and a deeper connection with the Lord . . . to know Him more intimately and to follow Him more closely. It accurately describes the ideal course our faith would take as we mature in Christ.”

In Philippians 3, verses 13-14, Paul wrote: “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

The upward way is the straight and narrow path that leads to life. We have chosen this way and must do all we can to be fit for our God.

“Higher Ground” is reading our Bible and meditating on the words. It’s listening to music that tells the gospel story. It’s sharing our faith in hope of turning hearts to God. It’s considering our home in heaven when God calls us to be with Him. “Higher Ground.”

The refrain in this hymn reveals what we want--to be lifted up and standing for our faith: “Lord, lift me up and let me stand, By faith, on Heaven’s tableland, A higher plane than I have found; Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

This is one hymn to joyfully sing with all our heart. We all seek the same thing. More of God. More of God’s power and presence in our lives. More sincere love. To know Him more.

We must simply keep on running the race with our eyes on Jesus, looking upward to Him to help us continue on to "Higher Ground." Our goal is that someday we will scale that utmost height which will take us home to be with the Lord.

Are you pressing on? May that be our aim. Plant your feet on “Higher Ground!”

By His Grace . . . 

Humbly Speaking

The other week in Sunday School, a story was used as an illustration of Paul and Apollos being co-laborers for Jesus, and not competitors. Paul was the one who had “planted,” while Apollos had “watered.” The Scripture was from 1 Corinthians 3, beginning at verse 10: “By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it.”

The story told in Sunday School was about John Wesley and George Whitfield. Most of us will be very familiar with the name of John Wesley who was an English theologian and evangelist who was a principal leader of a revival movement with the Church of England known as Methodism.

George Whitfield was a Church of England evangelist who, by his popular preaching, stimulated the 18^th century Protestant revival throughout Britain and in the British American colonies. These two men of God were at the forefront as leaders of England’s Evangelical Revival in the 1700’s.

Yet there was a great conflict between them. Wesley held strongly Arminian beliefs (emphasizing free will), while Whitfield was a Calvinist (emphasizing predestination). Both men led countless thousands to faith in Christ, but they were at odds theologically.

In addition to their theological differences, there were some methodological issues as well. Wesley had a number of manifestations that occurred in his meetings, such as people falling out, crying out under conviction, and shaking. Whitfield was uncomfortable with these, and suggested that Wesley was inappropriately encouraging these manifestations

Even though they never came to terms over their theological differences, they eventually learned to respect each other.

One of Whitfield’s followers (who obviously still held great animosity against Wesley) said to Whitfield, “We won’t see John Wesley in the heaven, will we?” Whitfield humbly replied “Yes, you’re right, we won’t see him in heaven. He will be so close to the Throne of God, and we will be so far away, that we won’t be able to see him!”

Can you relate? Putting someone that we disagree with in front of us before God? That really caused me pause. I have been pondering it ever since I heard it. The tendency of human nature, when any type of conflict occurs, is to defend oneself. After all, “every way of a man is right in his own eyes” (Proverbs 21:2).

At one point, when Wesley appeared to be near death, Whitfield wrote him and said, “…a radiant throne awaits you, and ere long you will enter into your Master’s joy. Yonder He stands with a massive crown, ready to put it on your head amidst an admiring throng of saints and angels.”

Wesley, though, recovered from his illness, and Whitfield eventually died first. At Whitfield’s request, Wesley preached at three memorial services held for Whitfield in London. Wesley spoke lovingly and respectfully of Whitfield and said, “There are many doctrines of a less essential nature with regard to which even the most sincere children of God are and have been divided for many ages. In these we may think and let think; we may ‘agree to disagree.’”

We are all in this walk of faith together. All of us have a certain job God has assigned for us to do. One is not more important than the other. We all want Jesus to be known throughout the world, and in our own backyards. Let’s remember this powerful illustration as we work and serve with other Christians. God calls each of us to do the work He’s assigned us.

Remember Whitfield words: “Yes, you’re right, we won’t see him in heaven. He will be so close to the Throne of God, and we will be so far away, that we won’t be able to see him!”

By His Grace . . .

🔆   Most of this article was written by Tony Cooke. His website is: tonycooke.org

Spiritually Prosperous

Color of summer

Recently I read a devotion about trust and came upon the words "spiritually prosperous." I stopped and looked up the definition for prosperous to get a better idea of what was meant and came across the words successful, strong and vigorous.

"David claims that the person who makes the Lord his trust will be blessed, utterly happy, spiritually prosperous, envied, and honored. This kind of trust requires a certain amount of courage . . . but believes that God, as He is revealed in His Word, will act toward us as we have been told He will." Psalm 40:4, Chris Tiegreen

There are so many ways to be prosperous: through knowledge . . . gifted with a certain skill, or financial wealth. These are just a few. So, when I read the words "spiritually prosperous" it stopped me. What are the benefits of being spiritually prosperous?

Being strong in spiritual matters makes it possible to withstand attacks from the devil. My courage would be filled with God's strength, and I could make decisions easily to help me through any situation.

We have the confidence of knowing our God is faithful. He is all knowing. He is strong in mercy and grace. He never fails.

Being successful in spiritual matters helps see us through difficult times and confusing situations, leading us to the words in the Bible we need at just the right time. Being vigorous about our spiritual life draws others to us because of God's strength shining through.

A happy garden.

I think the best reason to be spiritually prosperous is the close walk that would be developed by walking with our God. Trusting Him fully and completely, whatever the path we're on.

"Jesus did not say, 'Come to me and get it over with.' He said, 'If any man would come after Me, let him take up his cross daily and follow Me.'" Louis Cassels

Daily is the key word. Our commitment to Christ, however genuine and whole-hearted it may be today, must be renewed today, tomorrow . . . and the day after that . . . and the day after that. Then we will be "spiritually prosperous."

By His Grace . . .

A Right, Nice Day

 

Last Friday was an interesting and fun day! We started out listening to a Gaither Homecoming video. We hadn't watched any for years. It used to be an annual event, beginning the new year with the first Gaither video and then watching the rest of them during those cold winter months. It was a great way to start the year.

But it's been years since we watched one. I chose "Amazing Grace" and it was wonderful to sit through the sacred old hymns, singing along and worshiping God.

My mother introduced the Gaither videos to us, which in itself was a miracle. She was not a "religious" or "faithful" person, so when she mentioned them to us we were surprised. Maybe sometime in her life she was exposed to the hymns and was enjoying listening to them.

Once we started we couldn't stop. They were just too good. They encouraged, inspired, and provided a worship time singing with a group of sinners, just like us. 

I think we'll be watching a few more. I'm not one to listen to the radio, or play a CD during the day. So having the opportunity once again to be a part of a large choir and sing my heart out, (which is a whisper now), brought joy to my heart. 

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Early that same morning I woke, and while sitting in the dark, which we do every morning, the "Sawmill Arts and Craft Center" in Cook Forest came to mind. This is a place where artisans across PA sell their wares. I love to visit there and see the work of created personss. I decided to go that day!

So after the video, I left. I was hoping to find a new picture. I enjoy the photography of Jack Paluh and was hoping I would see a picture that delighted me. He takes picture of nature, wildlife, and country scenery. A new picture to put on the wall to enjoy would be nice. And I did see a couple to consider.

But my eye was drawn to some quilt items, and I fell in love with the above piece. I always enjoyed going to the Amish Quilt shops in Lancaster, and was delighted when I got to visit one in Ohio a few years ago. I have two handmade quilts by the Amish that I hang on the living room wall, one for the spring and summer, and one for the fall and winter.

Being a homebody, I like my home to be warm and cozy, and quilts are one of the ways I decorate. As well as pictures. I can relax and appreciate work that others have done.

I had been saving my $10 weekly allowance for awhile, so when I saw the quilt I had to have it. A gift to me. A treasure to keep. My weekly allowance provided half of the cost and that made me happy! It now is laying on the dining room table for me to enjoy.

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Once home, I  picked up the movie "Amazing Grace" which tells the inspiring story of how one man's passion and perseverance changed the world. Based on the true story of William Wilberforce and his courageous quest to end the British slave trade, the movie also features the story of John Newton who was a slave ship captain who found God and wrote the hymn "Amazing Grace."

A joyful music video, a lovely quilt piece, and a movie to inspire the heart. It was a good way to end the week!

By His Grace . . .

What an Anchor!

 "Anchor yourself to God's Word. No matter what storms arise, His truth always stands firm and prevails. Every form of earthly security may disappoint you, but Scripture will not. It Cannot! Backed by the awesome power of Almighty God, His promises are fully accomplished and absolutely victorious."  

Charles Stanley, Every Day in His Presence

"Backed by the awesome power of Almighty God" caught my eye. What a truth! There is nothing that compares to the power of Scripture. It's alive. It's truth. It's real.

 Following are some quotes I considered about Scripture:

"Every Christian must refer always and everywhere to the Scriptures for all his choices, becoming like a child before it, seeking in it the most effective remedy against all his various weaknesses, and not daring to take a step without being illuminated by the divine rays of those words."  Pope John Paul

"However powerful and learned he may be, the Bible always sets man face to face with God, reminding him thus of his frailty and his weakness.  Paul Tournier (1898-1986)

"All things desirable to men are contained in the Bible." Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)

"There came a time in my life when I doubted the divinity of the Scriptures, and I resolved as a lawyer and a judge I would try the book as I would try anything in the courtroom, taking evidence for and against. It was a long, serious, and profound study; and using the same principles of evidence in this religious matter as I always do in secular matters. I have come to the decision that the Bible is a supernatural book, that it has come from God, and that the only safety for the human race is to follow its teachings."  Salmon P. Chase (1808-1873)

"Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years." Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834-1892)

"The Bible does not thrill, the Bible nourishes. Give time to the reading of the Bible, and the recreating effect is as real as that of fresh air physically."  Oswald Chambers (1874-1917) 

 "I am sorry for men who do not read the Bible every day. I wonder why they deprive themselves of the strength and the pleasure." Woodrow Wilson (1856-1924)

"It is not possible ever to exhaust the mind of the Scriptures. It is a well that has no bottom." Saint John Chrysostom (c. 347-407)

"Backed by the awesome power of Almighty God . . ." Now that's an anchor!

By His Grace . . .

Light in the Clouds

 

I remember an airplane flight I took, that took off in a storm. Although everything looked dark and dreary, when we passed through the clouds the sun was shining bright. I always remember that experience when things get me down, and I can't seem to see the light.

I recently enjoyed a devotion in the book "Unto The Hills" by Billy Graham. The titled is: "Behind the Clouds," and it reminded me of my experience. He speaks of his home on a mountain top where often he can see the clouds in the valley below. While he enjoys beautiful sunlight and clear skies, he observes thunderstorms and lightning flashes, and thunder roaring--all far below where he sits on the top of the mountain.

Clouds are mentioned in the Bible many times. God spoke to His people through a cloud. He called Moses 'out of the midst of the cloud', Exodus 24:16, and His 'glory appeared in a cloud,' Exodus 16:10. The scripture verse associated with the devotion is: "Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; and Thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds." Psalm 36:5

Charles Kingsley said: "No cloud across the sun but passes at the last and gives us back the face of God once more." And Longfellow said: "Be still, sad heart, and cease repining; behind the clouds is the sun still shining."

I enjoy looking at the different clouds as they roll by. Fluffy white; faces and animal shapes; storm clouds, and faint outlines. Graham says: "The Bible indicates that clouds are given to us for a purpose, and that there is glory in the clouds and that every cloud has a silver lining."

In the Bible, clouds often carry deep spiritual meaning. They symbolize God's presence, His guidance, and even His return. Clouds bring us rain. God put His rainbow in the clouds.

Remember the sun always shines on the other side of the cloud and God's Son is there too! We will always have clouds, both in the sky and in our lives. Yet God is still shining bright and waits for our eyes to see Him.

By His Grace . . . 

 

Your Cloud of Witnesses

 

Roadside beauty!

I love to read about the “cloud of witnesses” in the eleventh chapter of Hebrews. The faithful men and women who believed God, stood for Him, and were delivered by His power, some in their lifetime, and some after their death.

It is good to read about those who have gone before us. They really aren’t that different from us. They lived for God, tried their best to follow His leading, and trusted Him to take care of them. He still does that today. Around you are saints of today who will become part of the “cloud of witnesses.”

The Scripture reads: “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2

Whitney Hopler, Crosswalk.com, wrote: “There is no limit to the amount of people who can join that great cloud in heaven. Although the book of Hebrews presents famous examples of faithful people who are in the great cloud of witnesses, it doesn’t exclude others. It looks forward to other people of faith who will experience the rewards of heaven. Every single soul who chooses to live in faith through a relationship with God can become part of the great cloud of witnesses.“

We are not alone. People through the ages have experienced what we are going through today. We can be encouraged by their stories and the stories of those living today who have overcome great difficulties and heartbreak.

“We can have no doubt about the great truths which we believe, for we are compassed about with a cloud of witnesses . . . Having therefore no room for doubt let us throw our whole strength into our high calling and run with patience having our eyes always fixed upon Him, the beginner and finisher of our faith.” Charles Spurgeon

Romans 15, verse 4, reinforces the benefit to find encouragement and hope from the past: “For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”

Who are your cloud of witnesses? Could it be a grandfather who has passed on to be with Jesus? Maybe there's an aunt who has touched your life with her faith. What friends do you have that have helped you through difficulties with biblical answers? Is it that teacher in your church who always brings God's Word to life? 

Choose your friends wisely. Stay connected with that family member who encourages your growth in God's Word. Are you a cloud of witness to someone?

As Whitney Hopler said, "Every single soul who chooses to live in faith through a relationship with God can become part of the great cloud of witnesses."

 By His Grace . . .

Do You Surrender All?

 

It's so easy and comforting  to sing: "I surrender all, I surrender all; All to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all."

“I Surrender All” is that hymn of old that most of us have sung many times. But do we surrender all? Do we cease living against God and submit to His authority.

Do I surrender everything I have? Do I surrender the pleasures of this world? Do I surrender the anger I have towards another? Do I surrender my wrong desires? Do I surrender my time to give to His work?

It’s an easy thing to say, but a hard thing to do. It’s an everyday battle. But God asks us to surrender all and follow Him.

Spurgeon put it this way: “It is what angels do, what kings and prophets have done, what the best of men delight in—there is therefore no dishonor nor sorrow in so doing. All nature is submissive to His laws; suns and stars yield to His behests, we shall but be in harmony with the universe in willingly bowing to His sway. ‘Submit yourselves unto God’—you must do it whether you are willing to do so or not. Who can stand out against the Almighty?”

C.S. Lewis: “If we wish to know Christ more intimately and be transformed into His likeness, there is no other way. We must die daily. It starts with a full surrender of our lives—all we are and all we have—to the Father. Then, with the Holy Spirit’s help, we must reaffirm this surrender, choice by choice, as life unfolds before us. Granted, this will sometimes be hard, but it is the most direct path to where we wish to go. And as we follow it, we will come to know Christ evermore deeply and grow in the love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control that characterized His life on earth.”

In Luke 14:33 it says: “In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.”

The path is clear. We all must surrender everything to Jesus. The next time you sing “I Surrender All” make sure your heart is in line with the words you are saying. It’s what we want. It’s just hard to do. Every day. Every minute.

You want everlasting joy in your life? Surrender it all. Second by second.

“All to Jesus I surrender, All to Him I freely give;

I will ever love and trust Him, In His presence daily live.”

By His Grace . . . 

A Lesson from Emma

We've had a few very hot days recently and it reminded me of a post I wrote in my book, "Changing Lives One Note at a Time." I put sample notes in it that I wrote to a women for a year. This is one of them, with my comments at the time:

"I watched my dog, Emma, soak up the afternoon sun as she relaxed on the hot blacktop driveway, just huffing and puffing away. I wanted to tell her: 'If you'd get in the shade, it would be cooler.' I know God says that to me when I'm huffing and puffing: 'If you'd get in the shade and be refreshed by My Word, you'll feel better.' God's breath would flow through me and calm my soul.

"If I don't stay consistent in my time with God, I feel the consequences: short-tempered, uninspired, and an unkind attitude. I also get mad at myself for getting away from my routine.

"That's why I try and live my life based on discipline. I don't want to get out of the shade!

"Discipline is good mental exercise and helps mold my willpower and self-control. Routine makes it easy to stay in a pattern each day and do what I have planned.

"Discipline and routine go hand-in-hand. the routine of life could turn mundane unless the things I have determined to do are in my best mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual interest.

"In his book:  'Lightposts for Living,' Thomas Kinkade agrees about the need for routine in your life: 'But I learned long ago that I need routine in my life--and that I have more freedom when my days can rely on a predictable rhythm . . . Such repeated and dependable activities anchor my days, providing a sense of stability.'

"I know that staying in God's Word is one thing that helps me go through each day. It keeps me balanced and in tune to the right way. I want to do all I can to make that a part of my day, Then I am refreshed and have the energy to do the things that come my way."

"Get in the shade!" Thanks, Emma, for the reminder! It still works today!

By His Grace . . . 

That Little Brick Home

 "There is nothing small in the service of God."

Saint Francis of Sales

1567-1622

Last week I was reminded of something that happened when Jerry and I lived in Maryland. We were part of an Independent Church at the time. Members were holding Bible studies in their home and Jerry and I offered our home for a study.

We lived in a small, brick home. It was only 1,160 square feet and was on a plot of land that was .64 acres. We had a little kitchen, 1/4 of a dining room, livable living room and three bedrooms of small size. It was just right for us.

My decorating style is cozy and warm, and our little home served us well for 32 years. It was big enough for the two of us, our son and daughter, and the dogs that lived with us. I never felt like my home was inadequate for company. We even had enough room to have four gardens in the back yard! 

That takes me to my memory. One Sunday morning a younger woman said to me: "I'd like to have a Bible study in our home but my husband says our home is too small." I replied: "Come to the next study. It's in my home."

The women and her husband came to the next study. We had to remove our dining room table and placed extra chairs wherever they fit to eat everyone. But we all fit fine and had a great study.

The next study was to be held at this women's home. We arrived and sat in the car for a few minutes and looked at her home. We decided our home could fit in it two and a half times. We went home that evening and thanked God for our little home and all it meant to us.

Why am I telling you this? It doesn't matter what size home you have; what size car you have, or what size yard you have. Don't ever let the size of your home or the shape of your furniture, or the decorations in your home keep you from inviting others to it when you can share the love of Jesus with them. When you could have a Bible study to learn about God's Word. When you could pray for others.

Your heart is big enough to share with all those within your sphere of influence. When it comes to sharing Jesus, if your heart is filled with Him, any place you are is big enough to touch hearts for  your Lord.

"Little is Much if God is in It"

"Little is much when God is in it,

Labor not for wealth or fame;

There’s a crown, and you can win it,

If you go in Jesus’ name."

By His Grace . . . 

Do You Have That Assurance?

 

"The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it."

1 Thessalonians 5:24

It is wonderful to know in your heart--to be absolutely certain, without a doubt--that God is faithful. I hope you have that assurance in your heart.

We are failed everyday, mostly by people, sometimes by circumstances, and those failures can be a weight in our hearts. But there is one who never fails us, who is always with us and who never gives up on us.

It all comes down to my relationship with God. Is it strong or weak? Sure or wavering? When something happens that makes no sense, can I turn to the One who knows all?

With the assurance that God is with me, I can get through any situation. Assurance means having the confidence of knowing something is true. I either have it or I don't. There's no in-between.

I believe that all things happen for good according to God's plan. Because of what Jesus did for me, His blood covers my sin as white as snow. I can see God through Jesus, because of His love. With complete trust in God's Word, it's easier to accept things I don't understand. And that happens a lot.

My husband, Jerry, and I prayed for five years that he would be hired to oversee all maintenance work at a camp we supported. The dream came true and we were ecstatic. But during the first six weeks of employment, Jerry knew he could not work there and resigned.

Those were stressful days. Without God's assurance that all things work for good for those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose, it would have been difficult to go on. But because we knew of His faithfulness, we were able to pick up the pieces and continue moving forward.

His Word is faithful. Having that assurance makes all the difference.

By His Grace . . . 

A Refreshing Word

Refresh. The word inspires happy thoughts. Strength, renewal, invigoration--all are felt when we're refreshed. Maybe that's why I like the Scripture verse which says. "He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." Proverbs 11:25

The pleasure of a cool breeze, the warmth of the sun on our face, smelling fresh flowers. God's creation. Being refreshed encourages us and promotes hope.

We're pretty good at refreshing others. A friendly smile, a warm hug, sending a note or calling someone refreshes the receiver and the giver. But what about refreshing ourselves spiritually?  How can we purposely refresh ourselves with our heavenly Father.

God's love does that for us. Remembering His loving mercies and living according to His Word reminds us of all He's done for us. He rekindles our love for Him which then flows through us: reading and studying His Word . . . singing hymns and praise songs . . . praying and thanking Him at all times. Staying in touch with God refreshes us.

God sings because He is pleased with all He has created. How refreshing to hear that! It helps us look at His creation with joy. God sings because He loves us. The more we remember that, the more we will be refreshed each day.

I love the song, "When God Sings" by Kim Hopper. Can you imagine these sounds? "The rustling of the wings of the angels . . . the hush of the saints bowing down . . . losing themselves in sweet submission . . . there's nothing on this earth like the sound . . . when God sings. The heavens fill with wonder . . . when God sings, it's a breath of holy thunder . . . when God sings. Every note and every measure dances with His delight in me . . . when God sings."

 "The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. 
He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you
but will rejoice over you with singing."
Zephaniah 3:17

Fill yourself and others with the refreshing joy of God. There's nothing like being refreshed by our Heavenly Father.

By His Grace . . .

Keep Your Eye on the Goal

 
I don't know what kind of tree these two are, but every spring I love to see the leaves! The green is bright and shining, and leaves a lasting impression in my mind of God's creation. These lovely trees were found on Roseville/Sigel Road.

In the office of the pastor at my home church in Maryland was a large sign that he referred to often: "Keep Your Eye on the Goal." 

So many things happen during the course of a day that it's very easy for me to lose sight of what's important. Ups and downs and challenges; defeat and victories, laughter and fear, we can all relate to the avenue of emotions we go through in the course of a day.

What is the goal? Maybe each of us have different goals in life, but there should be one goal that's universal in every Christian's life: live for Christ.

If we live for Christ, everything we go through in a day will take us back to our purpose: live for Christ. Our emotions and mental thinking can be changed in an instant if we call upon and remember who we live for.

I think of the hymn: "Living for Jesus." The first line says: "Living for Jesus a life that is true." That means through every day, every hour, every minutes being aware of who you live for, "striving to please Him in all that [you] do."

Pastor Crowley passed a number of years ago, but I still remember the training and knowledge I received from him as a new Christian. God placed me in an environment where I could grow and learn. One of the things Pastor Crowley did was teach a nine month class on the "Sermon on the Mount." He did it especially for new Christians.

I had all the tapes of those classes and listened to them through the years. Somewhere during those years the tapes were lost. As a mature Christian I would still listen to those tapes if I had them.

Philippians 314 says: "I [Paul] press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Matthew Henry wrote: "He who runs a race, must never stop short of the end, but press forward as fast as he can; so those who have heaven in their view, must still press forward to it, in holy desires and hopes, and constant endeavors. Eternal life is the gift of God, but it is in Christ Jesus; through His Hand it must come to us, as it is procured for us by Him."

"Keep Your Eye on the Goal." Don't let all the distractions in this world mess you up. It's worth the effort.

By His Grace . . .