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 . . .

Who Are You Considering?

 
The other day on my walk I saw the resident horses on the property on the far side of the pond. When they saw me they started heading my way . . .

“Who are you considering today?” That’s the title of a devotion by Rick Renner in “Sparkling Gems From the Greek.” It caught my eye quickly.

The Scripture text he wrote about is Hebrews 10:24: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

Renner wrote: We must remember that although the local church is to be a place where we can come to worship and hear the Word of God preached and taught, it is also a place where believers should 'consider one another' as this verse commands. the writer of Hebrews uses this word to convey the picture of a loving community where people are vitally concerned about each other's welfare. In fact, they are constantly observing and contemplating each other to know how to encourage and provoke each other to love and to good works."

I enjoyed watching the horses slowly trot over to me . . .

What are you doing in answer to this Scripture verse? For those folks you know best in your fellowship, are you considering the things that are going on in their lives? Sometimes the entire fellowship is aware of a concern. Other times, only those closest to the person or family are aware of concerns.

It's easy to tell ourselves that someone else will handle the concern -- someone closer to the person, has ore time, more money, more anything. But it doesn't always happen like that. Sometimes all it takes is a word from an acquaintance to bring a smile. To forget a pain. To give hope.

They slowly walked along the fence line to say hello . . .

It is easy to give a smile, a word, a note, a call, a moment of interaction with another. Let’s remember these words from Renner: “The local church should be a place of victory where faith is built up, the soul is encouraged, and wisdom and strength are imparted. It’s a community where faith lives and triumphs through a family of believer’s love and concern for another.”

I enjoyed talking with them. Don't they look great in the field of buttercups!

Who are you considering today?

By His Grace . . .

Be True to Your Word

I have always been touched by Jesus' words in John 17, beginning at verse 20: "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in Me through their message." Jesus prayed specifically for you and me. In verse 26 He continues: "That the love you have for Me may be in them and that I Myself may be in them." What joy to know Jesus prayed for us and loves us!

It's so comforting when someone tells me they prayed for me! and to know that Jesus prayed for me, too. Well that's encouraging!

Telling someone "I'll pray for you" is a very serious statement. I've found in writing encouraging notes that making that statement puts a "burden upon my heart." If I write it, I better do it.

I've always felt strongly about doing what I say I'll do, whether it's 'I'll call you," "I'll have you over," or "I'll send you" it weighs heavy on my heart until I have fulfilled my promise.

When someone says they will call you and they don't, it hurts. Making idle commitments for conversation's sake has the potential to hurt someone who is already in need.

It's important to me that my word is true. Not only for the person to whom I give it, but it's important as a mature Christian. I'm reminded of Psalm 34, verses 12;-13: "Whoever of you love life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies."

Knowing Jesus prayed for me is awesome! I want to have that reputation.

Verse Four of "I Am Praying for You."

“When He has found you, tell others the story,
That my loving Savior is your Savior, too;
Then pray that your Savior may bring them to glory,
And prayer will be answered- ’twas answered for you!”

By His Grace . . .

Let's Take Your Picture

 

I love magnolia trees. One day on our way to Lancaster I saw this beautiful tree. I had Jerry pull over and I ran across four lanes of heavy traffic so I could take some pictures of it. Let's say that was definitely a few years ago. Maryland had the right season for the magnolia tree to blossom in full glory. We planted three magnolia trees when we moved to PA, but the buds open too soon and were always affected by the lingering frosts. I'm glad I had the opportunity to take many pictures of this beautiful tree. I'll share two more pictures below.

In a book I was reading recently by Valerie M. Bodden, it told of a pastor giving a sermon about a picture that was recently taken of him. I don’t think I’ve ever heard a message quite like this before. I found it to be interesting and hopeful.

“We had a great photographer, but I can tell you that there’s one thing about the picture I’m not going to like. Wouldn’t like no matter who took it.

“The pastor patted his somewhat rounded middle and said: ‘The picture is going to show this.’

“I’m hoping maybe she can do some magic with Photoshop to make me look better Maybe give me a body-builder body.

“What about you? What do you see when you look at a picture of yourself? Do you see your wrinkles, maybe your thinning hair? Your scars?

“And those are just the physical imperfections. We can go deeper too. What about mental imperfections? Are you bad at math? A terrible speller? Not so great at geography?

“And let’s go deeper still. How about the spiritual imperfections? Is all you see when you look at yourself your sins? All the times you’ve done what you know is wrong? The times you’ve failed to do what was right?

“Makes a pretty ugly picture, doesn’t it?

"You ever wonder why God chose you? I mean, surely there are people out there who are prettier, smarter, kinder, better than you, right?

“I mean, He’s God. He could have anyone He wants. So why would He pursue you? Why would He want me, with all my faults and failures, my flabby abs and bald head and terrible spelling and filthy sins?

“Oh beloved. Don’t you see? God doesn’t love you in spite of all of those things. He loves you because He has erased all of those things. He didn’t just go in with Photoshop and touch you up a little here and a little there. No, he changed your whole picture with the blood of Jesus. He has erased every last trace of sin, every last imperfection, and he has made you perfect in Him.

“The next time you look at a picture of yourself, do me a favor and see it as God does—an image of His masterpiece, redeemed from sin, created to love and serve Him. Like clay in the hand of the potter, so you are in God’s hands.”

Pictures. Sometimes we look good and sometimes we look bad. But when God looks at us, we are lovely in His eyes.

By His Grace . . .

Baby Leaves

 

This day I share my annual "Baby Leaves" post. I wrote this article in the late 1990s, and it was published in the early 2000's in Woman's Touch magazine. It always encourages me! 

"The blistering wind hit my face as I opened the door. Winter was here. 'Come on, Sparkie,' I said. 'You have to go for a walk.'

"Sparkie, our 11-year-old dog, slowly walked through the door. 'Do we have to go out in this weather?' his eyes pleaded. That's how I felt too.

"The wind slapped my face and tears dropped from my eyes. 'Its been a difficult year, Lord,' I thought. Winter has harbored in my heart leaving me cold and dead, just like the trees. My eyes traveled around the yard taking in the bleak appearance. Problems had multiplied and left me drained of all my strength. 

"Again, I noticed the trees. Once full of foliage, they now stood bare before me. And the remains of our productive garden now showed hard, cracked earth. 'Even the geese took a detour on their way home,' I told the wind.

"Yes, the year had left stains, and the ache in my heart hurt. 'I know I should be thankful, Lord,' I whispered. 

"'Hurry Sparkie,' I yelled. 'I want to get back inside.'

"My eyes fixed on the maple tree behind our house. Stripped of all its colorful clothing, it looked dead. 'Just like my heart,' I thought. And then, I remembered the baby leaves.

"Last February, I began watching the buds develop on the maple tree. I couldn't remember ever taking the time to watch leaves grow, and decided I'd see firsthand how God gave them birth.

"Sparkie and I would stop every evening on our walk to look for any development. It was a slow beginning, but finally--one day in April-- the buds opened.

"Long tentacles reached out, as many as 10 or 15 from each bud, as I remember. At the end of the tentacles were blossoms and at their base were leaves. The leaves were bound together, just like the cold buds had been. As the weather warmed, they began to unfold.

"My heart tingled with excitement when the leaves began to open. My husband, Jerry, was at the garden, and I remember yelling excitedly to him, 'Come quick! the leaves are opening.'

"Half-inch baby leaves, perfectly shaped, stretched their little frames for all the earth to see.

"In one week, some leaves had grown to 3 inches in length. My eyes couldn't believe the transformation. As the leaves grew, the blossoms were blown to the ground. I walked on yellow drops of sun splattered all over the place. I had witnessed the birth of one of God's creations.

"The cry of a lone bird brought me back to the present. Chilled, I headed back to the house, shivering But my heart was no longer cold.

"You see, it's February now--just the time I began watching the frozen buds last year. When everything looked dead, and no life was visible, God was working. And now I knew God was working in me.

"Its been a long year, but I know my heart will feel the warmth of God's love again. Why, in just a couple of months, He'll bring me baby leaves.

"Come on, Sparkie,' I said. 'Let's go tend the fire.'"

Here we are in April once again, and baby leaves are beginning to open on the trees. It will always be a special time of year for me, for you see, God gave me baby leaves, His HOPE to me.

By His Grace . . . 

Serendipity Corner

 This is a serendipity moment: seeing my first baby fawn in the wild 

while driving to work one morning.

"As the years pass, I am coming more and more to understand that it is the common, everyday blessings of our common everyday lives for which we should be particularly grateful. They are the things that fill our lives with comfort and our hearts with gladness, just the pure air to breathe and the strength to breath it; just warmth and shelter and home folks; just plain food that gives us strength; the bright sunshine on a cold day; and a cool breeze when the day is warm.

The real things haven't changed. It is still best to be honest and truthful; to make the most of what we have; to be happy with simple pleasures; and have courage when things go wrong.

I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all."

Laura Ingalls Wilder

This doe and her fawn resting in a field on my drive home from work.

You can see the back of horses at the top of the picture.

I've been learning this ever since I retired in 2011, and probably way before that. It will be 14 years this October that I've been retired. I'm thankful that God has provided what we've needed along the way. It is the simple things that really add up to big things.

Another serendipity moment while driving to work one morning.

I'm a homebody. Even though there is no family to keep me busy here, the comforts of everyday life and the ability to appreciate what you have and what you're doing are big things. There's no longer a rush to get out the door to a job. There's no longer a rush to get a meal on the table. There's no longer a rush to study God's Word and use the gifts God gave to me. I have time to get everything done in an orderly way.

"Serendipity Corner" is a Facebook page. Serendipity: the occurrence and development of events of by chance in a happy or beneficial way. I've had a few serendipity moments through my life. It's always a thrill when something good unexpectedly happens while you're doing something else.

All these snaps were serendipity moments while driving to or from work.

I'm excited! My early morning fawn spotting drives will be starting soon! I love being out in the early morning when all is quiet and there are no vehicles on the road. Coming around a bend or just down the road I find a baby fawn. 

By His Grace . . .

All for me . . . All for you

We share a gift. A wonderful gift. An undeserved gift. A gift like no other gift we've ever received.

A gift full of love and compassion, joy and favor. A gift that is hard to fathom. A gift from someone we didn't know until we found the Person giving it to us.

Have you ever had a gift like that before? People just don't give other people gifts unless they know them. We sometimes give gifts for a person in need. If a tragedy happens or an illness or accident occurs, we want to help. But to just give a gift to someone we don't know. To receive a gift from someone we don't know.

Thankfully, the Person who has given you and me this gift does know us. He knows everything about us, and He still gives us this gift.

That's what love looks like and there's only one Person who is capable of doing this. Jesus. The Son of God. The Redeemer of the world. The Creator of all things.

One gift. And that's what we celebrate this Sunday. Easter. His life for us. Now, His glory in us. 

This week we remember the sacrifice He gave for us and the resurrection He obtained for us. God's gift to us.

All for me . . . All for you. Celebrate Him in your heart this week and all through the year. A perfect gift. 

Chorus of "Jesus! What a Friend for Sinners"

"Hallelujah! what a Savior! Hallelujah! what a Friend!

Saving, helping, keeping, loving, He is with me to the end."

By His Grace . . .