Is Your Heart for Him?

 

I've always loved the story in 2 Chronicles 20 about King Jehoshaphat of Judah. Especially where it is written: "stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you." Five places in this chapter it is written: "stand in your presence . . . stood there before the Lord . . . stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you . . . stood up and praised the Lord."

But this weekend I listened to a sermon that included chapter 19 of 2 Chronicles that made me pause. Verse three, of chapter 19 says: "There is, however, some good in you, for you have rid the land of the Asherah poles and have set your heart on seeking God."

Jehoshaphat had made a bad choice and the Lord was going to punish him. But God knew Jehoshaphat had a good heart and had done good in other matters. So He withheld judgment.

That is our God. He doesn't want to punish us unless we need to be punished. God looked at Jehoshaphat's heart and knew he loved God and had done good. So God relented on punishing him.

God does that for us too. We are all going to make mistakes and make wrong choices. It's our human nature. We will sin. But God takes everything into account when He decides our punishment. Just like He did with Jehoshaphat. "God does not treat us as our sins deserve, but takes note of a heart for Him." Gary Hamrick

Does God know your heart? Can He see that you are a faithful child? Or are you hiding your heart because you know it is not faithful? 

Another word Hamrick said that I like is "soul fattening." In regards to when we pray and fast, doing those disciplines, our soul is "fattened" with more of God to help us rest in Him during tough times.

If you've never read about King Jehoshaphat in Chapter 20 of 2 Chronicles, take a moment to see what he did and what God did. The Lord gave them victory and caused them to rejoice over their enemies. I think you'll be doing a lot more standing when you do!

By His Grace . . . 

Readings

 Checkout my other blog sites on the right side of this blog for new devotions to encourage and inspire your heart. Devotions to choose from: Hymn Studies with Scripture, Hymn Line Devotions, Scripture Verse Devotions and Timely Words from Saints of Old. 

A new devotion posted today on: Timely Words from Saints of Old: P. J. Wolz. 

My Very Best Thought!

 Women Made For His Glory Facebook Page

I've written about this hymn line before so please indulge me once again.

Last Saturday morning during my devotions I turned the page in my hymnal to the next hymn I would sing, and  I found one of my favorite hymns before me. I love to sing "Be Thou My Vision." The words are a delight to the soul and in the first verse it has one of my very favorite lines:

"Thou my best thought by day and by night."

God IS our best thought, the very best thought our minds can have. God’s love comes through to fill us and help us in our daily walk.

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

Enduringword.com: “The best Christian living comes from minds that are fixed on heaven. They realize that their lives are now hidden with Christ in God, and since Jesus is enthroned in heaven, their thoughts and hearts are connected to heaven also . . . The words ‘set your mind’ marks aspiration, desire, and passion . . . In order to seek these things, the mind must be set on them.”

Is God my best thought? Do I spend time with Him, rejoicing in His love and worshiping Him for His grace and mercy? Does He enter my mind during the day?

What about at night when I'm trying to fall asleep? Do I fulfill David’s words in Psalm 63:6: “On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night.”

There is no question. You can’t think about anything as great as our God and Savior, Jesus. The more we think about Him, the closer we become to Him. Make Him your best thought always!

This hymn prayer is rich with imagery of a high view of Christ, the unequaled treasure of finding Him, and our total surrender to His Kingship. 

The other verses are just as delightful! Read them slowly and with purpose.

                                               "Be Thou my wisdom, and Thou my true Word;

I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord.

Thou my great Father, I Thy dear child;

Thou in me dwelling, with Thee reconciled.

"Be Thou my breastplate, my sword for the fight;

Be Thou my dignity, Thou my delight.

Thou my soul's shelter, Thou my high tow'r;

Raise Thou me Heav'nward, O Pow'r of my pow'r.

"Riches I heed not, nor vain, empty praise;

Thou mine inheritance, now and always.

Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,

High King of Heaven, my treasure thou art.

"High King of Heaven, my victory won,

May I reach Heaven's joys, O bright Heav'ns Sun!

Heart of my heart, whatever befall,

Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.

Let Jesus be your best thought always! 

By His Grace . . .

Feel Your Feelings

  

On her blog, “Love Songs to My Life,” Gloria Gather shared an interesting post from her friend, Kenna West. Kenna was sharing about a song from her childhood that made it possible for her to “feel my feelings” during turbulent years in her young life.

The phrase “feel my feelings” caught my mind and caused me to pause and remember turbulent times in my younger life. I believe it’s important to be able to express our feelings, let them out, in a good way, so that we can move forward and get past things that upset us.

I tried to recall the songs I clung to in difficult times as a non-believer, and then as a believer. But my memory just didn’t work well. I went through lists online and saw many titles I remembered but didn’t recognize words that had touched me. I'm just thankful there were songs I clung to during trying times in my life.

Since becoming a Christian, my comfort and release now comes from the Bible. Psalms provides an entire picture of happy and sad feelings, and how David and others got through them. I also find relief and comfort in hymns of old that tell the old, old story, and praise and worship songs that take us to the throne.

There are still songs written and sung today that we can relate to in sadness, praise and thanksgiving.

I encourage you to “feel your feelings” as you walk through each day and find Scripture, hymns and praise and worship songs that help you identify and overcome thoughts that keep you in bondage. Remember to choose songs that praise our Lord and God. For there is no other who understands your feelings but our Savior and God.

By His Grace . . . 

Slowing down

 

"Remind me that my worth is not measured by how much I accomplish, how well I perform, or how tirelessly I keep moving, but by the simple grace of abiding close to You with a trusting heart.” Daily Devotion

A friend sent me a post from Daily Devotion a few days ago, and the above words caught my attention. I’ve slowed down. Some because of my age. Some because of family caring responsibilities. And it took me awhile to accept that I wasn’t doing as much as I used to.

I've been adjusting to this new season for two years. I’m sure some of my friends are experiencing this also, as many are close to my age. I wonder if they are feeling the change that we go through in our senior years.

Everything takes longer. Everything is harder. My favorite expression is: “Why is this so hard?” It is amazing that everything you do is harder than it used to be. Everything.

Often it has caused me to feel like I’m not doing anything. If you are used to accomplishing a lot, it’s hard to accept that you just can’t do it anymore.

I was still accomplishing fine when I turned 75, but last year and this year, now at the age of 77, there's been a big difference. I was upset at the beginning, missing my ability to do more, but slowly I’ve accepted the reality and do my best to do what I can and forget about the rest.

Jesus is with us even in our senior years. He still thrills our souls. He still is within reach when we call. And He helps us adjust to this season in our lives.

One thing I do know. I abide close to my Savior, and I trust Him completely. I am worthy to Him because He loves me and continues to care for me even when “it’s too hard.”

Think about the words in the above quote, my older friends. Abide close to our Lord, and trust Him even though it is hard. You are worthy in His eyes. And that’s really all that counts.

By His Grace . . . 

God's Gift to Me

  

Baby leaves continue to thrill my heart.

Following is my annual post in the Spring. A gift for my encouragement and yours! I wrote this article in the late 1990s, and it was published in the early 2000's in Woman's Touch magazine.  

"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 . . . 

Readings

Checkout my other blog sites on the right side of this blog for new devotions to encourage and inspire your heart. Devotions to choose from: Hymn Studies with Scripture, Hymn Line Devotions, Scripture Verse Devotions and Timely Words from Saints of Old. 

Our Hiding Place

A phrase we all know and turn to in our time of need is "God's Everlasting Arms." The Scripture reads: "There is no one like the God of Jeshurun [upright one or blessed], who rides across the heavens to help you and on the clouds in His majesty. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the Everlasting Arms." (Deuteronomy 33:26-27A)

The word refuge can also be translated mansion or abiding place, which offers the idea of God being our home. There is a beautiful fullness in this metaphor, for home is always dear to our hearts, whether it is the humblest of cabins, a mansion or the smallest of attic rooms. Even more dear to us, however, is our blessed God in whom we live and move and have our being.

Home is where we rest and relax after the tiring labor of the day. Likewise, our hearts find rest in God and our soul dwells in peace . . . we can let our guard down, not fearing we will be misunderstood . . . we can freely communicate with Him, completely laying open all our hidden desires.

Studylight.org, Clarkes Commentary: "'Everlasting arms.'  As the arm is the emblem of power, and of power in a state of exertion, the words here state that an unlimited and unconquerable power shall be eternally exerted in the defense of God's Church, and in the behalf of all those who trust in Him."

His Everlasting Arms. Our shelter. Our retreat. Our abiding refuge. He is the only unshakeable refuge. We all know and love to sing "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms," written by Elisha A. Hoffman in 1887. Join me on the fourth verse: "What have I to dread, What have I to fear, Leaning on the Everlasting Arms? I have blessed peace With my Lord so near, Leaning on the Everlasting Arms."

We have nothing to dread, and nothing to fear. Our God is near, and He has Everlasting Arms!

Biblehub.com, Benson Commentary: "The Almighty power and infinite goodness of God, which protects and comforts all that trust in Him, in their greatest straits and distresses."

"The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him." Nahum 1:7

By His Grace . . . 

Wishing on a Star

Christopher A. Mills Photography

Houlton Maine

 “Why wish on a star when you can pray to the one who created them.”

Think Positive Power

I saw this quote on the "Think Positive Power" Facebook page and then pulled up some resources online to see what was said about it.

Of course, most of us, from our earliest days of childhood, were told to make a wish on a star. The song "When You Wish Upon a Star" is from the 1940 adaption of Pinocchio by Walt Disney. The song is also popular at Christmas time.

I'm sure some of us still wish upon a star, but hopefully we all are well aware of the fact that stars don't make wishes come true. Only God can do that. Most of us are aware of this Scripture verse:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving,

present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will

guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:6-7

Following are words from two web pages about this quote:

picturequotes.com: "Wishing upon a star has been a common practice for centuries, with people believing that their wishes will come true if they make them while looking up at a star-filled sky. However, the idea of wishing upon a star raises the question: Why put your faith in a distant, lifeless object when you can pray to the one who created it?

"Stars have long been a source of wonder and inspiration for humanity. Their twinkling lights in the night sky have captivated people's imaginations and led them to believe in the power of wishes. but stars are simply balls of gas burning millions of miles away in the vast expanse of space. They have no consciousness, no ability to grant wishes or fulfill desires. So why do we put our hopes and dreams in something so distant and impersonal?

"On the other hand, praying to the One who created the stars -- God -- makes much more sense. Believers trust in [God] who is all-knowing, all-powerful, and all-loving. They believe that God is actively involved in their lives and has the ability to answer their prayers. By praying to God, they are putting their faith in a being who can truly make a difference in their lives."

crosswalk.com, Alexis A. Goring: "God is the Creator of all those billions of brilliant stars we see shining bright against the backdrop of the midnight blue sky. The Bible says He knows each one by name (Isaiah 40:26) just like He knows each of us by name. So why would we whimsically pray to the creation when we can talk directly to the Creator?"

The next time you look up at our beautiful sky and see the bright shining stars, instead of wishing on them, why not thank God for such a beautiful creation. Then ask Him for your wish!

By His Grace . . . 

What a day!

 

“How wonderful, at evening, to be able to say,

“What a day, Lord! What a day! Because I could pray.”

P. J. Wolz

 Years ago I was typing words that a friend’s grandfather wrote, making a book for her. The above words caused me to pause then and continue to have me pause every time I see them. A saint filled with God’s Spirit who was thankful He could pray.

Do I feel that way? At the end of the day, am I thankful I had the chance to talk with God? Her grandfather’s words continue to make me shiver in excitement. In possibility. In desire.

I want to catch the joy this man had. The relationship He shared with God. The happiness that filled His heart because He could talk to God.

I am thankful I can talk with God, but I haven’t realized it in this way. To come to the end of my day and be thankful that I can talk with God.

I see a simple life. Doing simple things. Regular work each day. A home to come to and rest. And thankfulness to God.

We can talk with God any time and know He hears and guides us. But our lives are so crowded with “things” that we miss the simplicity of talking with God any time we want too.

 Ephesians 6:18

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

Biblerepository.com: “Ephesians 6:18 provides insight into the vital role of prayer in the lives of believers . . . This isn’t just about a one-time prayer; it speaks to a continuous, active communication with God. This ongoing dialogue with our Creator is our lifeline, helping us stand firm in our faith . . . The phrase ‘Praying always with all prayer and supplication’ indicates that we should be in constant communication with God. This means both thankfulness and asking for guidance or help. Throughout scripture, prayer is presented as a way to deepen the relationship we have with God. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Paul urges believers to ‘pray without ceasing,’ which captures the essence of this ongoing conversation.”

“How wonderful, at evening, to be able to say,

“What a day, Lord! What a day! Because I could pray.”

I made a sign with these words so that I see them each day. I want to feel this in my heart each evening and thank God as this man did. What a day indeed!

By His Grace . . .

The Beautiful Palace

 

The March 20th reading in Streams of the Desert, Volume 2, was interesting. W. Duns provides a picture of the Bible expressed in a unique way. I googled W. Duns to see if I could find out anything about him, but to no avail. Yet, he was important enough to Mrs. Charles E. Cowman to include something he wrote in her book.

Sit back for a different description of the Bible:

"The Bible is a beautiful palace, built up out of sixty-six blocks of marble--its separate books. In the first chapter of Genesis we enter the vestibule, which is filled with the mighty acts of creation. The vestibule gives access to the law courts, the five books of Moses. Passing through these we come to the picture gallery of the historical books. Here we find hung upon the walls scenes of battlefields, representations of heroic deeds, and portraits of eminent men belonging to the early days of the world's history. Beyond the picture gallery we find the philosopher's chamber, the Book of Job. Passing on we enter the music room, the Book of Psalms, where we listen to the grandest strains that ever fell on human ears. Then we come to the business office, the Book of Proverbs, where right in the center of the room stands facing us the motto: 'Righteousness exalteth a nation; but sin is a reproach to any people." From the business office we pass into the chapel Ecclesiastes, or the preacher in his pulpit, and thence into the conservatory, the Song of Solomon, with the rose of Sharon, the lily of the valley, and all manner of fine perfumes, fruits, and flowers. Finally we reach the observatory, the prophets, with their telescopes fixed on near and distant stars, and all directed toward the bright and morning star that was soon to arise.

"Crossing the court we come to the audience chamber of the King, the Gospels, where we find four lifelike portraits of the King Himself. Next we enter the workroom of the Holy Spirit, the Acts of the Apostles, and beyond that the correspondence room, the Epistles, where we see Paul and Peter and James and Jude busy at their desks. If you would know what they are writing about, their Epistles are open for all to study.

"Before leaving we stand for a moment in the outside gallery, the Revelation, where we look upon some striking pictures of the judgment to come and the glories to be revealed, concluding with an awe-inspiring picture of the throne room of the King."

It was enjoyable to read this description of the Bible. But have no doubt about it-God's Word, God's Truth and God's Light is what it's all about.

Owning a Bible is one thing; reading it is another. The Bible is God's primary message to us. Reading and studying it has revolutionized millions of lives--it can revolutionize your life too! You can't escape God. 

In John, Chapter 14, verse 2, Jesus says: "In my Father's house there are many mansions. I go to prepare a place for you." That's the palace I'm looking for!

By His Grace . . . 

A Delightful Encounter

Last week I was reading a magazine article where the subscribers were told: “There are certain people we encounter regularly, even if only for a moment, who leave a lasting impression on us. Their presence makes an impact on our lives. Have you experienced such an encounter?” Following were words written by numerous subscribers with their story.

The question caused me to pause and consider. An encounter did come to my mind, and I smiled remembering it. I had wrote an article about this encounter and started looking for it. I was so excited when I found it. 

I had started a new job, and while driving to work one morning I saw a man walking his two Golden Retrievers. Each morning as I drove by, the man would be at a certain spot, and I smiled watching him and his dogs. One day I stopped my car and asked him if I could take a picture of him and his dogs. I explained that I was on my way to work and I always smile when I see them.

I'll let the article I wrote about this encounter tell you the rest of the story:

"I love dogs. I've owned a few most of my life. The wagging tail of Sammy, my purebred mutt, always makes me smile. It's no surprise when I saw a man walking his two Golden Retrievers in the same spot every day that I would smile and arrive at work happy.

"What is surprising are the words I heard one sunny morning: 'Take a picture of them.' 'Take a picture of them?' Where did that come from? I questioned out loud. 'You want me to go up to this man I don't know and take a picture of him and his dogs?'

"God's still, small voice always surprises me--send a note, bake a cake, make a breakfast date. I do my best to act on whatever God brings to my mind, but this request was out of my comfort zone. 'You just don't go around asking to take a picture of someone,' I argued.

"'What will he think of me?' I asked God. 'I'll feel so silly.' But, as the days passed, I found I took to the idea and started envisioning the picture on my desk at work. I have pictures of a lot of animals: calves, a baby donkey, goslings, birds, and of course, Sammy. 'It would be a treat,' I decided, 'to have the man and his dogs on my desk too.'

"Mustering all my confidence I pulled up beside him the following morning. Lowering the window I smiled and said, 'Can I take a picture of you and your dogs? You give me so much joy each morning.'

"Before he could say anything I jumped out of the car with my camera. 'Your dogs look so happy--I enjoy them so much,' I told him. He seemed a little flustered, but worked on getting the dogs to stand still.

'Are you done?' he asked, after I snapped a few pictures. 'Yes, I think I have enough,' I said. Thanking him again I got in my car and drove off.

"'I did it,' I yelled! 'I can't believe I did it. Thank you, Lord, for this joy.'

"I was gleaming when I arrived at work a few minutes later. Laughing, my friend, Melody, said: 'I saw you taking pictures of those dogs.' Melody follows the same route as I do the last two miles. 'They are beautiful animals,' she continued. Laughing with her I said, 'I can't believe I stopped and took their picture!'

"I enjoy photography. Six months ago I went digital and love the ability to see my pictures instantly. Editing them to just what I want gives me a whole new area of enjoyment. I was thrilled when I saw the pictures of the man and his dogs. After a little cropping around the edges so my car wasn't in view, I printed off two copies of the prints so I could give the man a set.

"The next morning I could hardly wait to see him and hand him the envelope of pictures, but he wasn't there. 'Oooh,' I muttered. 'I'll have to wait until tomorrow.' But he wasn't there the next morning. He wasn't there all week.

"'Maybe he went on vacation,' I thought. It was the Memorial Day Weekend. 'I'll see him soon.'

"But he wasn't there the next week either. 'Did I scare him?' I wondered. 'Was he uneasy about what happened.'

"'Lord, Why did you want me to do this,' I groaned. 'I feel so bad that he isn't there. Am I the reason?'

"Each morning as I past 'his spot' my disappointment grew. The weeks passed, but not my memory.

"'Melody, have you seen the man with the dogs lately,' I asked about five weeks later. 'Yes,' she replied. 'I saw him one day last week.' 'I'm so glad,' I told her. 'I haven't seen him since I took the pictures.'

"'There he is!' I whispered as I turned on the road. Stunned, there was only one dog. 'Oh no. Where's the other dog?' I wondered.

"I didn't stop. I couldn't. Was it my imagination or did he put his head down as I drove by? 'Oh, Lord,' I asked. 'Is that why I haven't seen him? Please let me see him again,' I asked.

"The next morning, my stomach in turmoil, I pulled up along side of him. Handing him the envelope with the pictures I said, 'These are the pictures I took. Is your other dog ok?'

"'He died of cancer,' the man said. 'Gone in a matter of five days.' Listening, I took his hand to transfer my sympathy.

"He looked at the envelope. 'Pictures of both dogs?' he asked. And then I knew. I had a treasure to give him. A reminder of his early morning walks with his two friends. 'Yes,' I said happily. He opened the envelope and looked at his friends. I reached for his hand again. 'I care,' I said.

"'You won't see me next week.' he said. 'I'm having shoulder surgery.' 'I will pray for you,' I shared.

"Every time I drive past 'his place' I send a prayer heavenward. One day I'll see him again, walking his friend. I'll stop and ask how he is and tell him of the prayers I said for him each day.

"I don't always know the reason for God's prompting me to do something. I've just learned to act when I hear Him. I have a feeling the memory I placed in this man's hands will hold a special place in his heart. An unexpected treasure. A gift from God.

"I smile when I look at the picture now on my desk. It's a reminder that even the smallest act can make a giant different in the life of another."

A lot more happened between this man and I as we stopped each morning to say hello. His wife invited me to have lunch with them one day, and they invited Jerry and me to have dinner with them and another couple at a special restaurant in the development.

This is a happy memory and a lasting impression of a time when a man and his dogs brought joy to my heart as I drove to work. And how I brought joy to his heart with a picture of his two best friends.

By His Grace . . .

Growing Old With Jesus

Me and my hot cocoa!

From "CottageWhimsy" Facebook page, with a little editing

In honor of my birthday on the 14th, I'm posting some words I found on the "Walking With Jesus" Facebook Page recently. Seems appropriate.

"Growing old isn’t easy. We lose strength, forget things, and come closer to the end of life. But I have no fear, because when my time here is done, I will step into a new world. My body and mind will be restored, and I will meet Jesus face to face.

"Growing old is not easy. Your body does not do what it used to do. The steps feel steeper. The mornings feel slower. You might walk into a room and forget why you went there. You might search for a name you have known for years. And some days, that can scare you more than you want to admit.

"Because it is not just about sore knees or tired hands. It is also the quiet losses. The changes you did not ask for. The hard truth that you are closer to the end of this life than you were before.

"If that is where you are today, take a gentle breath. God is not shocked by your weakness. He is not disappointed by your slowing down. He is not standing far away, watching you struggle. He is close. He is near. And He knows your frame.

"Jesus understands what it is to be human. He felt tired. He wept. He carried pain in His own flesh. So when your strength is not what it was, you are not alone. You are seen by a Savior who is tender with suffering.

"Sometimes faith looks like honesty. It looks like whispering, “Lord, I do not like this.” It looks like bringing your fear into the light and letting God hold it with you. And little by little, hope begins to rise.

"God does not measure your life by how strong you are. He does not love you less because you need help now. Your worth has never been in your energy. Your worth has always been in His love.

"Even now, your prayers matter. Your quiet faith matters. Your kindness still reaches people. Your life still carries fruit, even in a season that feels simple and hidden.

"And here is the truth that steadies the heart.

"This world is not the end of you.

"There will come a day when your tired body will not feel tired anymore. There will come a day when your mind will not feel scattered. God has promised a new beginning for His children. A day with no more pain. No more sorrow. No more death.

"No more fear of forgetting. No more nights where worry keeps you awake. No more feeling like your body is failing you.

"And best of all, Jesus will be there.

"Not far away. Not hidden behind faith alone. You will meet Him face to face.

"The One you have prayed to in the dark will be the One you see in the light. The One who carried you through grief will welcome you with joy. The One who forgave you will hold you with love.

"So if the thought of aging brings tears to your eyes, you do not have to pretend you are fine. God is gentle with you. When your hands tremble, His hands do not. When your memory slips, He remembers you fully. When your strength fades, His strength remains.

"And when your time here is done, you will not step into emptiness. You will step into home.

"So let today be a day of quiet courage. Not because aging is easy, but because Jesus is faithful. You are being carried toward restoration. And you are deeply loved, now and forever."

We all are going through it or will go through it sooner than we think. My favorite exclamation when I'm trying to do something is: "Why is this so hard!" This saying appeared shortly after I turned 65 and it's only gotten more frequent as the years go by.

No, growing old isn't easy, but I am thankful for the years I have and look forward to the eternity to come!

By His Grace . . . 

God Sees

 
I've always felt a kinship with Eeyore. So every March I decorate my Christmas tree

with ornaments of him. It's my birthday month and seeing him makes me smile.

"The best part of all Christian work is that part which only God sees."

Andrew Bonar

I thought this quote interesting. Bonar lived in the 1800s.  He was a minister of the Free Church of Scotland. I was reading in Warren Wiersbe's book, "50 People Every Christian Should Know" and came across this quote.

We are told to do things in secret in Matthew 6:3-4 for God will see what is done and will reward us. There is something special about doing something for God and no one knowing about it.

There's the preparation in doing something for God before you do it in public. A pastor researches and prepares sermons. A Sunday School teacher reads and studies the lesson. A choir director prepares music. A cook prepares food. A worker prepares what he or she will need to accomplish something. These are things that only God sees as you prepare to do work for Him.

And knowing only God sees as you prepare for something makes it special. You are trusting Him to help you put together what is needed so you can accomplish the service He's called you to do.

When you spend time preparing yourself for God's service, He makes it a special time between you and Him. No matter what we are called to do, although God qualifies us to do it, we still have to research and plan to get it done, all with God's help.

And that may very well be the best part of working for God!

By His Grace . . . 

 

God's Power

 

“God’s power is restrained by God’s wisdom and judgment . . .

He knows what is best and never makes a mistake.”

David Jeremiah

We all know God’s power has no boundaries. He is able to do all things. Difficult is not a word in His vocabulary. It doesn’t matter how hard something is, how unbelievable something is or how mysterious something is. There are no limits to what God can do.

David Jeremiah shares that God doesn’t always use the power He has. Since He makes no mistakes, God uses His wisdom and judgment when He is doing something. He knows the past, the present and the future, and He knows how to determine what is best at all times.

It’s wonderful to know that His choice is always the right one. He will do what is best for us no matter how much we’d like something to be different. We may not understand or like it, but we have the confidence that He does.

Biblehub.com: “Understanding God's power is essential for comprehending His nature and His work in the world. It is a source of awe, reverence, and hope for believers, providing assurance of His ability to accomplish His will and fulfill His promises. Through creation, miracles, salvation, sovereignty, and empowerment, God's power is a central and defining attribute of His divine character.”

God is able to accomplish anything and gives believers hope during all situations and future happenings. We can have confidence that God will do what is good and right for each one of us. “He knows what is best and never makes a mistake.”

Matthew 22:29

“Jesus replied, “’You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.’”

 Biblerepository: “’Or the power of God,’ emphasizes that God’s abilities are beyond human comprehension. He has the power to influence the world, perform miracles, and even bring about resurrection. Understanding both the Scriptures and the power of God is significant in our faith journey and relationship with Him . . . God is not limited by our understanding of reality. His ability to perform miracles, to change hearts, and to resurrect the dead is a cornerstone of our faith. Recognizing His power gives us hope in seemingly hopeless situations and confidence that God can do great things in our lives.”

We don't always understand why things happen like they do, but we have complete assurance that God knows and has chosen the very best for us. Now that's God's Power!

By His Grace . . . 

Finally! An Answer

This may just be my problem or lack of understanding, but maybe there's someone else out there that has wondered about this.

We hear frequently that we will know each other when we get to heaven, and how good it will be to see our mother, father, sister, brother or any number of individuals we knew here during our earthly life.

And we hear frequently that there will be no tears in heaven (Revelation 21:4: "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."). Maybe this indicates that we won't remember any bad things here on earth, but it was never enough for me.

Well, I finally heard a message that speaks to this! I was listening to Dr. Anthony George, at First Baptist in Atlanta, and in his message he said: "One of the greatest gifts in heaven is going to be glorified amnesia . . . where God is going to forever purge from your memory all of the things that you regret, or are embarrassed about, or ashamed of. They will be forever forgotten when you get to heaven. That's what I believe."

My ears perked up when I heard that. The next day I wrote their online contact and asked if Dr. George had a Scripture verse regarding what he taught. The next day I received an answer.

Isaiah 65:16-17, "So that he who blessed himself in the earth Shall bless himself in the God of truth; And he who swears in the earth Shall swear by the God of truth; Because the former troubles are forgotten, And because they are hidden from My eyes. 'For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind.'"

The person who replied to my email wrote: "It is important to note, however, this prophecy in Isaiah is referencing the eternal heaven (new heaven and new earth), which takes place after the tribulation, not the current heaven. We know, for example, John saw sorrow in heaven when he visited heaven in his vision (Revelation 6:9-10), and the rich man asked Abraham to send Lazarus, the beggar, back to warm his brothers of the fate of the unrighteous (Luke 17:19-31). Both the Revelation and Luke passages indicate we will be aware of our lives on earth, including the bad things, in the current heaven."

I then checked out some commentaries on Isaiah 65:16-17. One online resource on Studylight.org said: "The former sorrows of the earth, under the fall, shall be so far from recurring, that their very remembrance shall be obliterated by the many mercies I [God] will bestow on the new earth."

On Blueletterbible.org, Matthew Henry wrote: "The former troubles were forgotten; but here it rises much higher; even the former world shall be forgotten and shall no more come into mind . . . The glorified saints will therefore have forgotten this world, because they will be entirely taken up with the other . . . The future glory of the saints will be so entirely different from what they ever knew before that it may well be called new heaven and a new earth."

And on Godsbless.ing: "The former troubles are forgotten and hidden from my eyes" resonates with God's pledge to wipe away past sufferings and sins, ushering in a fresh start devoid of the burdens that once weighed us down."

I now feel like I have an adequate answer to why we won't remember the sorrow experienced here on earth. I think Dr. George is right: "Where God is going to forever purge from your memory all of the things that you regret, or are embarrassed about, or ashamed of [or that you are heartbroken about]. They will be forever forgotten when you get to heaven."

Finally! An answer.

By His Grace . . . 

The Glory of God

  

What does the "Glory of God" mean to you? His splendor? His greatness? His power?

God's Glory means all of the above and so much more.  Scripture is full of verses that speak of God's Glory.

No dictionary definition can do justice in describing the word glory, when we refer to God's Glory. It's beyond our comprehension. It will take all eternity to fully understand and experience the wonder of God's Glory.

"We’re told Jesus is the radiance of God's Glory and the exact representation of His Being. Everything we've learned and know about Jesus is exactly who our God is." Hebrews 1:3

God's Glory has multiple meanings in Scripture. The display of His magnificence, the praise and honor showered upon His great Name, and awesome splendor barely touch how awesome our God is.

God's Glory is important because we see His power and majestic beauty. When we praise God, it reminds us of how good He is.

How do you take the One who is Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent, Eternal, Holy, Glorious, and try to wrap all that glory into an answer? It is hard to do.

Why is His Glory so important? Seeing God's Glory in the heavens and the earth points to how amazing and wonderful He is. We see His power and majestic beauty.

Moses wanted to see His Glory, but God put him in the cleft of the rock and covered him until He passed by. Today God's presence dwells within us. As we surrender to the Holy Spirit, God's Glory within will radiate to those around us.

"And they were calling to one another: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His Glory." Isaiah 6:3

 By His Grace . . .

Those Who Help

1 Corinthians 12:28

"And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues."

Bobbi Rae Facebook Page

Helping. It's a big thing. It's one of the gifts God gives to His children. All His children should help when they can, but some of His children have been gifted specifically to help others. I'm sure a few names come to your mind of those who help.

In the days of the apostles, "the helpers may have been those who accompanied them, baptized those who were converted by them, and were sent by them to such places as they could not attend to, being otherwise employed." Studylight.org, Clarke's Commentary

 

Over the centuries Christians are encouraged to help those in need, and I've witnessed this during the crisis of snow and frigid temperatures we experienced last week and into this week. I've heard of a number of people who have been helped during this time of crisis. 

Hebrews 6:10

"God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to helop them."

Biblehub.com, Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary: "The works of love, done for the glory of Christ, or done to His saints for Christ's sake, from time to time, as God gives occasion, are evident marks of a man's salvation."

Godsbless.ing: This verse reminds us of the importance of our actions and how they are seen and remembered by God. When we serve others with love and compassion, we are not only making a difference in their lives but also leaving a lasting impact in the eyes of God. It's a powerful reminder that our deeds, no matter how small they may seem, are recognized and cherished by God."

Scripturesavvy.com: "Another valuable lesson is the call to serve others. We see that no role is insignificant; every contribution is vital to the overall purpose of the church. When we shift our focus from ourselves to the needs of others, we exemplify that love of Christ and fulfill our calling as His followers."

Helping others isn't always a physical thing. Sometimes people just need a listening ear or kind word or someone to sit with them for a few minutes. This kind of help restores connection with another person. If you are alone, this is a mighty big help.

"Help Somebody Today"

"Look all around you, find someone in need,

Help somebody today!

Tho' it be little--a neighborly deed--

Help somebody today!"

Chorus

"Help somebody today,

Somebody along life's way;

Let sorrow be ended the friendless befriended,

Oh, help somebody today!"

A GIANT thank you to all those who have helped others last week recovering from this storm. I am thankful for the help we were given by our neighbors.

Why not live these words from the above hymn: "Help somebody today."

By His Grace . . .

Snowly Recovering

Our doves were bravely facing the storm!

We are still nestled snug in our home from the snow that hit on Sunday. I haven't seen a blizzard like that in years. It took my mind back to another Sunday morning back in 2003, February 16. I remember opening the back door at 7 a.m. and listening. This is what I heard and wrote:

"When I opened the back door I heard it

Snow

I was amazed at the sound

A whisper different from wind

Yet, precise; like nothing else I've ever heard

Snow falling from the heavens

My heart rested and listened

I couldn't keep away from my back door

I heard snow falling and thanked God."

I love snow. I love to see it fall. I love to see nature covered in fresh, clean snow. I love to sit at the window, drinking a cup of hot cocoa, and watch it fall. 

Let's all eat together peacefully.

I'm going to miss driving around and taking pictures of the beauty. I just can't do that anymore. I'm not as daring driving around now that I'm older. 

But the thing I like the most about snow is seeing how pure and clean it is and knowing God forgives my sin and makes me pure once again. 

Isaiah 1:18: "Come now, let us settle the matter," says the Lord, "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool."

Abby and Jo in earlier years in Maryland.

And I love to sing that wonderful old hymn, "Whiter Than Snow." 

Verse One

“Lord Jesus, I long to be perfectly whole;

I want Thee forever to live in my soul;

Break down every idol, cast out every foe—

Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.”

Verse Two

“Lord Jesus, for this I most humbly entreat,

I wait, blessed Lord, at Thy crucified feet,

By faith for my cleansing, I see thy blood flow—

Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.”

Verse Three

"Lord Jesus, Thou knowest I patiently wait;

Come now and within me a new heart create;

To those who have sought Thee, Thou never said’st “No”—

Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow."

Refrain

Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow,

Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

I made snow cream late in the day. I don't remember if I ever made it before, but seeing a recipe online urged me to try it. Scooping the pure and sparkly snow was exciting! So cold. With some chocolate syrup I think I could have ate a bowl. It was fun doing it. Almost like a child once again.

Mr. and Mrs. Cardinal taking a break from eating.

I know snow causes much hardship and and turns ugly quick. But I like to consider it a gift from God, urging us to slow down and be quiet. To rest our mind and body while considering His creation.

Yes, we're snowly recovering. We have to rely on others to help us get out. But I thank God for the beauty of His creation and the joy of resting in His care.

By His Grace . . . 

Double Good

 “Only to sit and think of God, Oh what a joy it is! To think the thought, to breathe the Name, Earth has no higher bliss.”

Frederick William Faber, 1814-1863

I love that I captured this snap when Abby decided she wanted to jump the fence!

This article was posted September 2024. I think it's worth posting again.

Recently, I was listening to Anthony George from First Baptist Church in Atlanta. His message was titled “Is There a Standard.” One of his illustrations included the numbers 3:16. We all know what verse he was speaking about. John 3:16. "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." 

Actually, though, he was talking about another 3:16 that is just as important to our understanding and learning of Scripture: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

This was one of George’s points in proclaiming that there is a standard and it’s the Bible: all Scripture is God-breathed. The Greek word is “theopneustos.” God-breathed. Scripture just isn’t inspired by God, it is God-breathed.  God exhaling the ideas and truths into those who wrote the words. He integrated His divine revelation into their human limitations.

Jon Gleason, mindrenewers.com wrote: “The concept of the breath of God has important connotations in Scripture, referring to God’s creative and life-giving power.  The Bible clearly says the Word of God is living, life-giving, and life-changing, and the connotations of theopneustos match those characteristics.

“Those who translated theopneustos for hundreds of years using the words “inspired” or “inspiration” weren’t just making stuff up. There was a very real basis in the connotations of the breath of God for the translational choice they made. 'God breathed the Scriptures into existence, and God breathed life and vitality into the Scriptures.'”

This Greek word only occurs once in Scripture, but what a meaning it has.

2 Timothy 3:16 is a Scripture verse that tell us all of the Bible will help us through life, guiding and directing us, so that we can live with assurance and truth. I hope whenever you read or hear someone mention John 3:16 that your mind will remember there’s another 3:16 that teaches us the words in the Bible come directly from our God as He breathes the information to the writers and the readers.

Three sixteen. 3:16. Double good.

By His Grace . . .

 

Look Forward

 

A number of years ago I spoke with an elderly woman on New Year’s Day, and the thing I remember most about our conversation is her comment that “I have nothing to look forward too except good health.” When she said it my initial thought was “that’s sad.” I often think of that comment. 

A few days ago I read the following and it gave me a different perspective on having nothing to look forward too. It helped me remember that which I've been given and the difference it makes. We seem to easily forget all that God can do for us as His child. We have a lot to look forward too!

"When the Holy Spirit imparts the gift of eternal life to you, far more has transpired than the mere possession of unending spiritual life. That is because the Holy Spirit brings to every Christian an entirely new quality of life that is divine, supernatural, and godlike.

"Through the Holy Spirit, the born-again man or woman can enjoy a new way of living. Since the Holy Spirit allows you to share in the life of Christ, He opens up a radical new lifestyle that is conformed to God's commands and ways, not to culture.

"You must remember that much of worldly behavior and methodology is based on wisdom that is flawed and tainted by sin. The Spirit of God reprograms your mind and transforms your attitude with His wisdom, dramatically altering your habits, rearranging your priorities, and establishing new standards. 

"The Holy Spirit gives you a new power for living; the new lifestyle comes with the power to succeed. You are no longer limited to fighting your problems with your resources. You have God and the fullness of His Spirit to help you and deliver you." Unknown author

Sometimes it may seem like we have nothing to look forward too, but God has put the Holy Spirit inside of us to provide all we need to alter that view.

I think of Matthew 7:7.

"Ask and it will be give to you; seek and you will find; 

knock and the door will be opened to you."

By His Grace . . . 

A Little Heart's-ease

"You were deliberately planned, specifically gifted, and lovingly positioned on this earth

 by the Master Craftsman."

Max Lucado

I've shared this story before. It's one of my favorite stories. It's simple and easy to understand. When I was a new Christian and felt God leading me towards writing notes to encourage, this story helped me believe I was doing something good for God even though it was something little. As it turns out, I did it faithfully for over 30 years and God rewarded me over and over in my heart.

Many people feel like they don't do enough for God when their gift seems small and insignificant. I learned if you are faithful with what God has given you to do, you not only will help others, but God will bring you joy in what you do.

The story is told in Volume One of "Streams in the Desert." I would share this story when I spoke on note writing. It's about a small flower that does what it was put here to do.

I didn't know what a heart's-ease was so I looked it up in the dictionary: a heart's-ease is another name for the viola tricolor flower, a hybrid plant derived from crossing certain species of the genus Viola and having small, spurred, variously colored flowers; is a common European wildflower, growing as an annual or short-lived perennial. The flowers can be purple, blue, yellow or white.

"A story is told of a king who went into his garden one morning, and found everything withered and dying. He asked the oak that stood near the gate what the trouble was. He found it was sick of life and determined to die because it was not tall and beautiful like the pine. The pine was all out of heart because it could not bear grapes, like the vine. The vine was going to throw its life away because it could not stand erect and have as fine fruit as the peach tree. The geranium was fretting because it was not tall and fragrant like the lilac; and so on all through the garden. Coming to a heart's-ease, he found its bright face lifted as cheery as ever. 'Well, heart's-ease, I'm glad, amidst all this discouragement, to find one brave little flower. You do not seem to be the least disheartened.' 'No, I am not of much account, but I thought if you wanted an oak, or a pine, or a peach tree, or a lilac, you would have planted one; but as I knew you wanted a heart's-ease, I am determined to be the best little heart's-ease that I can.'"

What has God given you to do? Are you doing it? Do you think what you do isn't noticed? Do you feel small and over looked? Some would think note writing isn't much. What does it take to write a simple, little note to someone. What difference could it possibly make?

"Others may do a greater work. But you have your part to do;

And no one in all God's heritage Can do it so well as you."

Unknown

God has given few people great gifts but He has equipped every one of His children to accomplish whatever He has purposed for them. As that little heart's-ease demonstrated, whatever God has give you to do, do it to the best of your ability. We all matter in God's Kingdom and must all use our gift(s) so that His perfect plan is realized.

"There is always a certain peace in being what one is, in being that completely."

Ugo Betti, Italian judge, author and playwright

"I am still determined to be cheerful and to be happy in whatever situation I may be, for I have also learnt from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions and not our circumstances."

Martha Washington

So whether you're a little heart's-ease, a Japanese maple or a mighty oak, do it! You will find satisfaction in your work and joy in your heart because you are using the special gift(s) God gave to you. I can testify to that!

"Now may the God of peace . . . equip you with everything good for doing His will,

and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him . . ."

Hebrew 13:21

In this new year be a heart's-ease. Be the best one you can be. Do it for God!

By His Grace . . .