Give Thanks

 A new Praise and Worship song devotion: "Give Thanks." Click on the 2nd link down the right side of this blog. 

Proverbs 11:25

 A new Scripture verse devotion: Proverbs 11:25. "He who refreshes others will himself by refreshed." Click on the 3rd link down the right side of this blog.

Tell someone they are too!

Graphic from Women Made in His Glory Facebook page

The Strength of Your Stand

 

I have a chance to write about one of my favorite three words in the Christian life: Deep-settled confidence! I was reading in another book and the author shared another way to look at this: "Firmly planted, fully committed, deeply rooted, confidently grounded." And I said, "Yep! That's it."

This is the way to live a successful Christian life. To be firmly planted in His Word; fully committed to life with Him; deeply rooted in your stance, and confidently grounded because of His love. This equals deep-settled confidence.

Is there any other way to live? If you are God's child, you must be firm and secure in Him. If you're not, you will not be successful in living for Him. If you only give half of yourself to Him, you will fall. You won't have the strength to choose correctly situations that come before you.

There can be no double sidedness. You can't live two lives. You will never be successful. We all fall at different times, even fully committed Christians. But because of our firm confidence, we will continue forward by God's grace. But if you're not solely committed to God, your fall will keep you down.

Consider what it is that is keeping you from being fully committed. It is a block you must overcome. You will not be successful in life until you defeat that which is holding you back.

"Our everyday feet find their footing on the solid ground of our eternal standing in Christ. We stand firm because our identity is secure; we keep standing because the outcome and fruit are His alone to produce." Ruth Chow Simons

Steadfastness. Courage. Endurance. Firmness. They all mean the same thing. How strong is your stand?

Isaiah 33:2

"Lord, be gracious to us; we long for You.

Be our strength every morning, our salvation in time of distress."

Scripturesavvy.com: "We need God's strength and sustenance to navigate the challenges of each day."

Godsbless.ing: "The call for God to be our strength every morning reflects a desire for continual sustenance and support from the Almighty. This verse captures a sense of dependency on God for sustenance, guidance and protection in the face of life's challenges."

Friends, put your anchor down deep. Let it settle within the grasp of our Almighty God, who alone is able to protect and provide what you need to have a successful life. Deep-settled confidence. Don't be with out it!

By His Grace . . . 

 A new Hymn Line Devotion: "All the Way My Savior Leads Me." Click on the 2nd link down the right side of this blog.

Psalm 119:5

 A new Scripture Verse Devotion: Psalm 119:5. Click on the 3rd link down the right side of this blog.

Thomas Chalmers

 A new "Timely Words from Saints of Old" devotion: Thomas Chalmers. Click on the 4th link down the right side of this blog.

"Jesus Loves Me"

 A new Hymn Study with Scripture: "Jesus Loves Me." Click on the first link down the right side of this blog.

1 Corinthians 10:12

 A new Scripture Verse Devotion: 1 Corinthians 10:12. Click on the 3rd link down the right side. 

"The Time of Your Life"

Fall color is beginning to decorate our land.

 "You can't give life more time. So give the time more life."

Semple Travels reel

Time. I've known people who seemed to have enough time to do all that is important, and others who have no time to do anything. 

No matter what season you find yourself in, I like the words: "give the time more life." Drop things that aren't necessary so you can do things that mean more to you. 

I celebrate 15 years of retirement this week. I've spent most of those days writing for God, via encouraging notes, encouraging articles, encouraging hymn studies. I'm doing what I enjoy and what I believe God has given me to do.

This year my energy level dropped considerably. Took me by surprise. I wasn't ready for it. It now takes me twice as long to write. But write I will. I need to be productive. So expectations have dropped and acceptance has taken over. 

Consider your desires so you can choose what will make you content and fulfilled. If you are in a position where you have to take care of someone, hopefully there will be some quiet time where you can relax and concentrate on a project or reading to bring you a calm settled-ness. 

The following words are from an article Brian Romero wrote. (brianromeroministries.com) He wrote about Anna, who appears briefly in the New Testament. She was 84, but her life was not over yet. She was about to see Jesus.

"There was an older woman named Anna who appears briefly in the New Testament. She had been widowed for many years and was eighty-four years old. Luke tells us that she spent her days worshiping, fasting, and praying at the temple. Then one ordinary day, Mary and Joseph walked in carrying the infant Jesus. Scripture says, 'And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of Him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem' (Luke 2:38 ESV). At eighty-four, Anna was not finished. She was about to see Jesus.

"Paul wrote, 'So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day'” (2 Corinthians 4:16 ESV). Paul was honest about what happens to our bodies. Christianity does not require you to pretend that getting older is easy. Your body changes. Your energy changes. You may grieve what you used to be able to do. But Paul refused to conclude that physical decline meant a person’s life with God was declining too. There is still something happening inside you. The Father is not finished revealing Jesus to you because your body has gotten older.

"Your purpose also does not have to look impressive to be meaningful. Maybe you cannot travel anymore. Maybe you cannot serve the way you once served. Maybe nobody is giving you a microphone or asking you to lead anything. But you can still know Jesus. You can still encourage someone. You can still pray for your family. You can still tell someone what Christ has done for you. You can still send a message to someone who is hurting. You can still speak His name. Some of the most important things you do may happen in conversations nobody else ever hears about.

"And when the house becomes quiet, remember that being alone and being abandoned are not the same thing. Scripture says, “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27 ESV). Because of the finished work of Jesus, His presence is not limited to a church building, a gathering, or the years when your calendar was full. Christ is in you. When nobody calls that day, Christ is in you. When you eat dinner alone, Christ is in you. When you wake up wondering what purpose another day could possibly have, Christ is still in you.

"So please do not measure the value of your remaining years by how busy you are or how many people need you. Anna was eighty-four when Scripture recorded one of the most important moments of her life. You do not know what conversations are still ahead of you, whose life your words may touch, or what Jesus still wants to show you about Himself. You are not taking up space. You are not too old to matter. You have not outlived your usefulness to God. You are still here, you still belong to Jesus, and as long as there is another morning in front of you, there is still more of Him to know and more of His love to give away."

"So give the time more life." That's what I'm trying to do. Accepting the changes and planning the possible. One day I will see Jesus too!

By His Grace . . .

"Down at the Cross"

 A new Hymn Chorus devotion: "Down at the Cross." Click on the 2nd link down the right side of this blog.

From Facebook page "OldFashionLife2"

"Timely Words from Saints of Old"

A new "Timely Words from Saints of Old" devotion: Dwight L. Moody. Click on the fourth link down the right side of this blog.

"Through It All"

 A new Praise and Worship devotion: "Through It All." Click on the second link down the right side of this blog.

Proverbs 3:3

 A new Scripture Verse Devotion: Proverbs 3:3. Click on the 3rd link down the right side of this blog.

Miracles Still Happen

 

"WomenMadeforHisGlory" Facebook page.

 "I never have difficulty believing in miracles, since I experienced

the miracle of a change in my own heart."

St. Augustine

God is still in the business of miracles. He still brings super natural happenings into the life of His people. A miracle happened last week for me and a friend. Some might call this a "Godwink," which fits the experience also. Let me tell you about it.

I have been trying to write an Advent reflection/devotion for church. I was sent instructions of what they wanted, and for the last two weeks I haven't come up with anything. We were given four Scripture passages to choose from, narrowing it down to focus on one line.

I mentioned it to a friend who I email with each morning that I hadn't come up with anything. I prayed about this again and asked God to help me. About 30 minutes after sending the email, three words came to me that I use often in my writings.  Deep-settled confidence.

I went back to the Scripture passages and found one that fit with my words. In a matter of 30 minutes my reflection was written. This happens often when I'm writing. When I'm stuck and can't bring forth words, God always answers in amazing ways.

Soon after, my phone rang. I answered, said hello, but didn't hear anything. Finally, my friend in Florida said hello. I had just talked with her the day before. She said, "The strangest thing happened. I received a text from my friend and sent her one back. I put my phone down and went out to the kitchen. When I returned I heard a voice on my phone. I picked it up and you were there."

I listened as she told me what her friend was going through. Soon, a voice in my mind told me to read her what I just wrote. When I was done reading it to her, she said it was beautiful and asked if she could send it to her friend who had an important appointment this morning. I took a picture of my computer screen and sent it to her. Her friend received it before her appointment.

A miracle. A Godwink. God provided me words at the exact time they were needed. My friend didn't call me. God called me on her phone. My friend, in need of hope herself, was encouraged. She was able to encourage her friend before she went in for her appointment. 

My friend said, "You have blessed two people this morning." But I knew, God blessed three. 

By His Grace . . . 

PS: The reflection/devotion I wrote won't be used until Advent starts. I'll post it here after it is used.

PSS: Godfidence fits right in with deep-settled confidence!

 A new Hymn Line Devotion: "Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee." Click on the 2nd link down the right side of this blog.

Genesis 50:20

A new Scripture Verse Devotion: Genesis 50:20. Click on the 3rd link down on the right side of this blog. 

"Timely Words From Saints of Old"

 A new devotion in Timely Words From Saints Of Old: Hudson Taylor. Click on the 4th link down the right side of this blog. 

Transformation

“No one who truly encounters Jesus Christ remains the same.”

Ruth Chou Simons

Isn’t that the truth! Once you have given your life to Jesus and been saved by His blood, you are a different person. From character to ability to your very soul, you have become a person changed, restored and reprogramed to be the person only God can bring out in you. And that person becomes a living, breathing child of God.

Just how different are you? You now believe in and trust Almighty God as the ruler of your life, and He will take you to heights never known before in all of your experiences and expectations.

In the spiritual world this is called transformation. There is a marked change in you.

Romans 12:2

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will."

Scripturesavvy.com: We are encouraged to think differently, act differently, and ultimately live differently. This transformation is essential because it helps us align our will with that of God . . . Transformation implies a shift that is not superficial, but is deeply rooted within us. This change begins with our thoughts and attitudes. When we engage in the renewing of our minds, we open ourselves up to hear God’s calling more clearly, leading us to know His plans—which are described as "good, pleasing, and perfect."

Biblehub.com: This transformation is both spiritual and moral, signifying a departure from the old self and the adoption of a new nature aligned with the character of Christ . . .  This verse highlights the importance of mental renewal as a means of transformation, suggesting that a change in thinking leads to a change in behavior and alignment with God's will.

You want to be different. Your eyes have been opened to a way of life that provides undeniable good. Your heart has been changed to know and desire to live for God and let Him control you.

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

Enduringword.com: God's love is a transforming love. It meets us right where we are at, but when we receive this love it always takes us where we should be going. The love of God that saves my soul will also change my life . . . We are His workmanship, His creation -- something new He has made of us in Jesus Christ. "The spiritual life cannot come to us by development from our old nature. I have heard a great deal about evolution and development, but I am afraid that if any one of us were to be developed to our utmost, apart from the grace of God, we should come out worse than before the development began . . . Our new life is as truly created out of nothing as were the first heavens, and the first earth. This ought to be particularly noticed, for there are some who think that the grace of God improves the old nature into the new. It does nothing of the sort." Charles Spurgeon

I'm thankful that God changes us into to a new creation. And continues to change us as we live for Him.  By His Grace we become stronger in our faith, and our walk with Him continues to mold us into the person God means for us to be.

By His Grace . . . 

"Set My Soul Afire."

 A new "Hymn Line Devotion: "Set My Soul Afire." Click on the 2nd link down the right side of this blog.

Scripture Verse Devotion: Ephesians 2:8-9

 A new "Scripture verse devotion: Ephesians 2:8-9. Click on the 3rd link down the right side of this blog.

"Thank You, Jesus"

 

The other evening I came upon Josh Groban singing, “Thank You, Jesus" on YouTube. I searched for a story regarding it. There are other songs with the same title, but I couldn’t find the version Groban sang. The words truly spoke to me. This post is the words Groban sang, as I listened on YouTube. It's worshipful to listen too. I hope the words inspire you as you read them. A story of how Jesus impacted a life. It could be my story.

“In the silence of the morning light, When my heart was lost in the darkest night,

You found me where I could not stand, Lifted me gently with Your Hand.

Every tear that I cried alone, You were there though I had not known.

Now my soul sings endlessly, Of the grace you’ve given me.

Through the valleys through the pain, In my weakness you remain.

Faithful love that never fades, You are the truth, the life, the Way.

Every breath I have to give, It’s because You chose I’d live.

Now my voice will rise and say, You are worthy every day.

I was broken You made me whole, You restored my weary soul.

Now forever I proclaim, The power in Your Holy name.

Thank you, Jesus, for Your love so deep. For the promises You always keep.

You gave me hope when I had none, Now I shine because of what you’ve done.

Thank you, Jesus, my heart will sing, To my Savior, my God, my King.

Every breath, every step I take, Is for You, oh, for heaven’s sake.

When I stumble when I fall, Still your mercy covers all.

You remind me who I am, Held forever in your plan.

No more fear, no more shame, I am free in Jesus Name.

Every chain has been undone, By the victory of One.

Hallelujah, I will praise, Lift my hands through all my days.

From the cross to victory, You have set this captive free.

Let my life be testimony, Of Your love that rescued me.

I will worship I will bow, Jesus take my life right now.

Oh thank you, Jesus, for the cross You bore, For the grace I could not earn.

Before you rewrote my destiny, Now Your Spirit lives in me.

Thank you, Jesus, forever true, Oh my praise belongs to You.

Till the end of all my days, I will live to sing your praise.”

"You were there though I had not known." We sometimes feel so alone. We wish that there was someone we could talk too. And yet, God is always with us, even though we don't think it or feel it.

"You gave me hope when I had none." I remember the time when I had no hope. I didn't want to live if what I experienced thus far in life was all there was. A woman suggested what I needed would be found in church. I went. I was saved. I had hope.

"Now Your Spirit lives in me." What a wonderful feeling to know God's Spirit lives in me. No more times of having no hope, and not feeling alone. Always confident that God is with me, and will always be.

Thank You, Jesus!

By His Grace . . . 

"Goodness of God"

  A new "Praise and Worship Song" devotion: "Goodness of God." Click on the 2nd link down the right side of this blog, titled "Hymn Line Devotion."

Timely Words from Saints of Old

 A new "Timely Words from Saints of Old" devotion: Oswald Chambers. Click on the 4th link down the right side of this blog.

Scripture Verse Devotion: Psalm 27:13-14

  A new Scripture Verse Devotion: Psalm 27:13-14. Click on the 3rd link on the right. 

Special to Him

Last week a story popped into my mind that I had read a few years ago. I looked it up and reread it. I thought I'd share it here. The story is in Streams In the Desert 2 by Mrs. Charles E. Cowman. It came from the Pittsburgh Bible Institute Publications.

"There is a beautiful story told of how one Christian dreamed that she saw three others at prayers. As they knelt the Master drew near to them.

"As He approached the first of the three, He bent down over her in tenderness and grace, with a smile full of radiant love and spoke to her in accents of purest, sweetest music. Leaving her, He came to the next but only placed His hand upon her bowed head, and gave her one look of loving approval. The third woman He passed almost abruptly without stopping for a word or glance. The woman in her dream said to herself, 'How greatly He must love that first one, to the second He gave His approval, but none of the special demonstrations of love He gave the first; and the third must have grieved Him deeply, for He gave her no word at all and not even a passing look.

"'I wonder what she had done, and why He made so much difference between them?' And she tried to account for the action of her Lord, He Himself stood by her said: 'O woman! how wrongly hast thou interpreted Me. The first kneeling woman needs all the weight of My tenderness and care to keep her feet in My narrow way. She needs My love, thought and help every moment of the day. Without it she would fail and fall. the second has stronger faith and deeper love, and I can trust her to trust Me however things may go and whatever people do.'

'"The third, whom I seemed not to notice, and even to neglect, has faith and love of the finest quality, and her I am training by quick drastic processes for the highest and holiest service. She knows Me so intimately, and trusts Me so utterly, that she is independent of words or looks or any outward intimation of My approval. She is not dismayed nor discouraged by any circumstance through which I arrange that she shall pass; she trusts Me when sense and reason and every finer instinct of the natural heart would revel;--because she knows that I am working in her for eternity, and that what I do, though she knows not the explanation now, she shall understand hereafter.'

"'I am silent in My love because I love beyond the power of words to express, or of human hearts to understand, and also for your sakes that you may learn to love and trust Me in Spirit-taught, spontaneous response to My love, without the spur of anything outward to call it forth.'"

Our God gives each one of us exactly what we need to live for Him, serve Him and love Him. He doesn't treat us all the same. Each one of us is special to Him, and He knows what will help us on our journey the best. 

The Scripture verse of this devotion is Zephaniah 3:17, "He will be silent in His love." Other versions say "quiet in His love" and "quiet you with His love" and "rest in His love."

Godsbless.ing.com: The image of God quieting us with His love is incredibly comforting. We can find peace and solace in the unwavering love of our Heavenly Father amidst life's chaos, troubles, and uncertainties. He soothes our worries, fears, and anxieties with His infinite love, allowing us to rest secure in His embrace. This verse serves as a gentle reassurance that no matter what challenges we face, God is there, singing over us in delight and calming us with His boundless love. So, take heart and find solace in the profound truth that you are cherished, celebrated, and comforted by the One who loves you most."

By His Grace . . . 

Scripture Verse Devotion

 A new Scripture Verse Devotion: Nehemiah 9:6. Click on the 3rd link on the right. 

Refreshment and Trust

Following is a post I wrote back in Maryland in younger years. No gray hair yet!

This post is taken from my second book, “A Note For You.” The book contains most of the notes I wrote to one woman to encourage her for an entire year, and remarks I added as to why I wrote each particular note. The two notes that follow mention Emma, shown above during a silly moment, who is now in doggie heaven.

Refreshment note . . .
“I watched my dog, Emma, a large furry dog, soak up the afternoon sun, as she laid on the hot blacktop driveway just huffing and puffing away. I wanted to say: ‘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 a lot better.’" 

If I don’t stay consistent in my time with God, I feel the consequences. Short-tempered. Uninspired. Unkind attitude. I also get mad at myself for roaming from my routine. God’s breath flows through me and restores my soul when I'm steady in His Word.

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

Thomas Kinkade agrees as he wrote in "Lightpost for Living:” “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.”

Trust note . . .
“My dog, Emma, is the most relaxed dog I’ve ever known. She rolls on her back and lays with all four legs spread apart. She has no concern or worry about being attacked, even though she’s so vulnerable at that point. I wish I could be that free from concern and worry. I must continue to have complete trust in Jesus, for I know He is my protector. Nothing can come my way except through His perfect will for me. My sweet Emma is a good example to me of displaying complete trust.”

I wish I could be that carefree. Concerns and worries are hard to overcome. When each new problem arises it takes a while to completely turn it over to God. There’s just something about trying to figure out what’s happening myself before I can let it go. My turnover time keeps getting shorter as the years grow. With each situation I conquer, I learn to trust even more.

I'm happy to say, many years later since writing those posts, I do stay in the shade more and my concerns and worries find their way to God sooner. Yes, years and growth and maturity help along the way. 

Refreshment and trust . . . each are necessary as I follow Christ. Below, Emma and I love on each other.

By His Grace . . . 

 

Be a Rainbow

I ran across a quote from Mrs. Charles E. Cowman who wrote the popular "Streams in the Desert" devotion books. Would you like to be a rainbow?

"Men ask for a rainbow in the cloud;

but I would ask more from Thee. I would be,

in my cloud, myself a rainbow . . . a minister to other's joy."

I've never thought about being a rainbow. What would that be like. From what Cowman wrote, a joy to others.

God mentions the rainbow four times in the Bible. We're most familiar with Genesis 9 when God made a covenant with Noah and God put the rainbow in the clouds. But rainbows are mentioned three other times in the Bible.

In Ezekiel 1:28, the appearance of a rainbow was in the clouds, the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. 

Bibleoutlined.com: This verse from Ezekiel captures a profound moment of divine revelation. The imagery depicts that of a vivid and glorious sight, akin to a rainbow. In Biblical terms, a rainbow is often a symbol of God's promises and His presence. By specifically mentioning that this appearance was akin to a rainbow on a rainy day, it evokes the idea that even in moments of darkness or gloom, god's glory can shine through.

In Revelation 4:3 share a "rainbow around the throne" and 10:1 when a strong angel coming down out of heaven, clothed with a cloud; and the rainbow was upon His head, and His face was like the sun, and His feet like pillars of fire.

Biblerepository.com: The rainbow encircling the throne reflects not only His majesty but also His mercy. Rainbows often symbolize hope and promise, reminding us of God's covenant not to destroy the earth again with a flood. This covenant symbolizes the balance of God's justice with His grace. Revelation 4:3 encapsulates the glorious nature of God while also touching on His faithfulness and goodness.

Godsbless.ing: A powerful angel comes down from heaven in Revelation 10:1-4, clothed with a cloud, a rainbow over his head, his face shining like the sun, and his legs like pillars of fire. This imagery of the angel's appearance conveys a sense of majesty, authority, and divine presence. The description of the angel's radiant appearance and connection to elements like the cloud and rainbow evokes the presence of God and His covenant with humanity.

Enduringword.com: Not only is the rainbow a reminder of God's promise to man, but it is also a natural result when the sun shines through a cloud.

Sounds like a good idea to be a rainbow. Rainbows bring joy when we see it in the sky. You just automatically smile. It's a reminder of God and the hope we have in Him.

By His Grace . . .

A Little Word

 

"Yet, I am always with You."

Psalm 73:23

I was reading a devotion in Jim Reimann's book, "Look Unto Me: The Devotions of Charles Spurgeon" and once again had to stop and consider a word. That tiny word "yet." Tiny, but powerful.

Spurgeon was sharing that "in spite of all the foolishness and ignorance that David had been confessing to God, he was not at all less certain he was saved and accepted, and that the blessings of being constantly in God's presence were undoubtedly his."

The verse before verse 23, David said, "So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before Thee." I wondered, "Am I like that to God sometimes." Foolish and ignorant. "Yet" confident of his (David's) relationship with God, "he (David) nevertheless sings through a glorious outburst of faith, 'Yet, I am always with You.'"

"Yet." It means "Still." "Always." "Nevertheless." "In spite of." "Even now." I am always with You. You are always with me. I am never alone. You are faithful to me.  Despite my foolishness. Despite my ugliness. Despite my harmful ways. My pride, My anger.

It's little words like this that make me give thanks to God for His loving care over me. To have the secure knowledge and understanding that God is always with me, even when I make mistakes.

Scripturesavvy.com: "The phrase 'Yet, I am always with you' highlights God's faithful companionship in every situation. Here, we affirm that God's presence does not waver or falter. Even amidst trials, we can find comfort, knowing that God stands with us . . . God is like a faithful friend who sticks by our side no matter what . . . It reassures us that even when life feels heavy and burdensome, we are held firmly in God's embrace."

Just a little word that holds the power of God in it. Thank God that He's always with you. Even when you may be foolish and ignorant. And if you don't have that deep, settled confidence that God is always with you, it's time to find it. Make sure your belief is strong and steady. Accept it in your heart that He loves you and never leaves you. It's the only way to live as a child of God.

By His Grace . . . 

Readings

 A new devotion posted today on: Timely Words from Saints of Old: F. B. Meyer. You can find the blog site link on the right side of this blog.

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. 

Feeding on the Word

"When we feed on the Bible--which is still very much alive and powerful--

the voice of God simmers and stirs within us."

Chris Tiegreen, Hearing His Voice, July 16th

I like the above words. Especially "the voice of God simmers and stirs within us." Hebrews 4:12: "For the Word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." 

Continuing from Tiegreen's devotion: 

"God breathed His words through human beings. That's what inspired means: 'breathed into,' So the Bible is a mysterious mix of the divine and human, with the divine guiding the thoughts and expressions of humans who encountered Him and spoke and wrote what they experienced and learned . . . He is working even now, causing specific messages to jump off the page into our hearts, provoking our minds to encounter truth and wrestle with it, encouraging our hearts to believe and grow, and imparting truth and wisdom into our spirits."

Letting God simmer and stir us with what we have read in His Word is a good practice to have. The word we normally hear is "meditate." The need to focus our mind on something we have heard or read.

Sometimes you can hear or read something in a different way that makes you stop and consider. That's what "simmer and stir" did for me. It brought a new light to the word "meditate."

It reminds me a little of my post last week titled "Master of Words" and how listening to words of wisdom from someone or reading words in a devotion can be God's voice answering you.

"He speaks through human mouthpieces. He fills hearts with truth. He inspires thoughts and messages and even specific words. We're fond of seeing ourselves as His hands and feet in this world, so it's only logical that we can hear ourselves and others as His voice. That voice must always be measured by His previously revealed truth, but if it's from God, it will measure up well. We can accept the proven words of His servants." Chris Tiegreen

Being a "word" person I like finding new ways to suggest doing things. Something catches my eye and it brings about a different meaning than what I would normally think. Simmer says smelling the soup cooking on top of the stove causing a deep breathe and calm feeling that all is right. Stir says having a strong feeling about something and being excited about it. God's Word can bring the feeling that all is right and being excited to read it!

Feed on your Bible and let it calm you with good thoughts. Afterall, God wrote it for you. And He knows you perfectly! Let it "simmer and stir!"

By His Grace . . .

 

 

Master of Words

Good morning to you too!

"God is the master of timely words. He knows the seating order of a group before they sit down and read. He knows years in advance which Bible passages and which devotionals will be read on a certain day, and He has a supernatural ability to coordinate them to speak directly into the events and issues of the reader's life. He knows how to direct us out of our normal patterns to listen to a message, read a passage of a book, or even overhear a casual comment that speaks profoundly into our hearts' desperate needs. He knows how to time His voice to get our attention and fit our circumstances."

Chris Tiegreen, Hearing His Voice, July 7th

How many of you are shaking your heard and saying, Yes! It is true! It has happened to me! It is amazing how at just the right moment God does something to answer your prayer in a most unusual way. 

This just happened to me last week. Once again I had been pondering a concern for a week or two as to what God wanted me to do. That morning I specifically prayed for an answer from God. After that, in my daily morning to a friend, I told her of my concern. She is one of three women who have been blessed abundantly with His wisdom. Her advice was good.

I pondered her advice the rest of the day. That evening, as I normally do, I began reading a few devotion books, not even thinking of my concern. I immediately stopped when I realized a devotion I was reading for that day provided me with the same advice I received earlier from my friend.

I continued reading in another devotion book, and I was stopped once again when the devotion for that day provided me with the same advice my friend gave and the other devotion I had read.

Times like these make me stop and thank God. It is amazing how He uses people, books, radio, studies to answer questions we have approached Him about. 

Proverbs 15:23

"A person finds joy in giving an apt reply; and how good is a timely word!"

Godsbless.ing: "This verse highlights the importance of not only choosing our words wisely but also ensuring that we speak at the right time. Our words can bring joy or sadness in our interactions with others. Therefore, it is crucial to be intentional about the words we use and the timing of our communication . . . They serve as a poignant reminder of the significance of our communication and the power it holds in shaping relationships and interactions. When we pause to consider the weight of our words and choose them wisely, we pave the way for positive outcomes and meaningful connections."

My heart has now settled. I am confidant of how God wants me to go forward. All because He knew a very long time ago that I would be asking a question at this time, asking for advice from my friend, and reading those books that evening. 

"God is the master of timely words." 

By His Grace . . . 

Readings

 A new devotion posted today on: Timely Words from Saints of Old: John Donne. You can find the blog site on the right side of this blog.

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. 

Heart's Desire

I love to share this story about how God answered my prayer in a magnificent way!

Over the years I've taken many pictures of doe and fawn, but hardly any of buck. So one November I prayed a special prayer: "Lord, You've given me many opportunities to take pictures of doe and fawn, but I've got very few pictures of buck. Please give me some opportunities to take pictures of buck."

I forgot about this prayer until the next summer when eight buck came up to our back fence to eat corn that we put out. Actually, they came up every morning and every evening for three months: July, August and September! Every day! All eight buck!

That August I remembered the prayer I had prayed the November before and got goose bumps! To think, God answered my prayer by bringing these guys up to my back fence.

I had never seen more than three buck at one time. They just don't travel in big groups. So this was especially awesome to have eight buck together.  When God provides a miracle He does it BIG!

If you discern God's love in every moment of happiness, you will multiply a thousandfold your capacity to fully enjoy your blessings." Frances J. Roberts

Psalm 21:2

"You have granted him his heart's desire and have not withheld the request of his lips."

Biblerepository.com: This verse from Psalms is a powerful reminder of how God answers prayers and fulfills the desires of our hearts. When we read this verse, we can see that it speaks of a divine promise--one that God always hears us when we call out to Him. It shows us that God is not distant but is very much involved in our lives. The idea that our heart's desire can be met is comforting. It's comforting to know that God listen to us and truly wants to give us good things. When we think about the times we've prayed for things, this verse can reassure us that God is aware of our needs and desires.

Even a prayer as simple as asking to see buck . . . 

By His Grace . . . 

Let's Take a Picture!

 
A barnyard peacock!

I read these words in Valerie M. Bodden's book, "Pieces io Forever." Thought it was worth sharing.

"Children of God, How do you feel about having your picture taken? I only ask because family picture day was always my wife’s favorite day. Mine, not so much. Which is probably why I’ve put off getting them done since she went home to the Lord.

"But when my son came to me last week and said we should get some new family pictures taken, I reluctantly agreed.

"We had a great photographer, but I can tell you that there’s one thing about those pictures I’m not going to like. Wouldn’t like no matter who took them. They’re going to show this. Pastor patted his somewhat rounded middle.

"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 pictures, doesn’t it?

"You ever wonder why God chose you? I mean, surely there are people out there who are prettier, smarter, kinder, 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 My hand,’ God says. Remember that. Amen."

 By His Grace . . .

Readings

A new devotion posted today on: Timely Words from Saints of Old: Warren Wiersbe. You can find the blog site on the right side of this blog.

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. 

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 . . .