"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)
What tempts you? What sends waves of desire over you that seem unconquerable? What seduces you time and time again? Do you need a way out?
Not only do you have access to a way out, THE way out is yours for the taking! In the NASB, the translation reads that God "will provide the way of escape...." Interestingly, in the Greek, "The Way" in that verse is the very same as that which refers to Jesus as "the Way, the Truth, and the Life".
That's it! Jesus...the way out. Let's seek Him. Let's follow hard after Him. Let's rely on His way as our way of escaping temptation. He is able!
Jesus, lead us...guide us...help us. Our spirits are willing but our bodies are weak. Be our way of escape. We need You!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Give Thanks...and Remember
"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever." Psalm 136:1 (NLT)
Friend, you need to go get your Bible! God has some reminders for you today!
Open the Word to Psalm 136. Read it. Just wondering...Did you being to gloss over the chorus echoed each time...in all 26 verses??? Go back. Read it again. This time, say the chorus out loud. Yes, out loud! It bears repeating...from whispers to shouts!!! "His faithful love endures forever"!!!!
No matter what you are facing, "His faithful love endures forever." Whether times are good or bad, "His faithful love endures forever." In meager circumstances or seasons of plenty, "His faithful love endures forever." When mortal man (or woman) disappoints you, "His faithful love endures forever."
Different translations vary on their wording, but the message holds the same promise. The NIV says, "His love endures forever." In The Message, "His love never quits." In KJV we read, "His mercy endureth forever." Mercy can only be shown through faithful love. The Amplified Bible tells us both, "His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever."
In between those 26 times of reminding us that His faithful love endures forever, we are called to remember the ways that God's promise is "backed up"...that "He is good," that He has performed mighty acts, He is a God of miracles, and He has proved Himself over and over.
God's Word doesn't lie. Speak His Words today...out loud! "His faithful love endures forever."! And don't forget to give Him thanks. He is so worthy!
Lord, thank You for Your Word...Your reminder to us of Your faithful, unfailing love and mercy! Help us in our unbelief...in times when we can't begin to fathom the depths of Your love for us, and the mercy that comes as a result of that love. We thank You for Your love...faithful love. We love you. Help us to love You as faithfully. Amen
Friend, you need to go get your Bible! God has some reminders for you today!
Open the Word to Psalm 136. Read it. Just wondering...Did you being to gloss over the chorus echoed each time...in all 26 verses??? Go back. Read it again. This time, say the chorus out loud. Yes, out loud! It bears repeating...from whispers to shouts!!! "His faithful love endures forever"!!!!
No matter what you are facing, "His faithful love endures forever." Whether times are good or bad, "His faithful love endures forever." In meager circumstances or seasons of plenty, "His faithful love endures forever." When mortal man (or woman) disappoints you, "His faithful love endures forever."
Different translations vary on their wording, but the message holds the same promise. The NIV says, "His love endures forever." In The Message, "His love never quits." In KJV we read, "His mercy endureth forever." Mercy can only be shown through faithful love. The Amplified Bible tells us both, "His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever."
In between those 26 times of reminding us that His faithful love endures forever, we are called to remember the ways that God's promise is "backed up"...that "He is good," that He has performed mighty acts, He is a God of miracles, and He has proved Himself over and over.
God's Word doesn't lie. Speak His Words today...out loud! "His faithful love endures forever."! And don't forget to give Him thanks. He is so worthy!
Lord, thank You for Your Word...Your reminder to us of Your faithful, unfailing love and mercy! Help us in our unbelief...in times when we can't begin to fathom the depths of Your love for us, and the mercy that comes as a result of that love. We thank You for Your love...faithful love. We love you. Help us to love You as faithfully. Amen
Friday, July 9, 2010
What a List That Would Be!!!
"Who can list the glorious miracles of the LORD? Who can ever praise Him enough?" Psalm 106:2 (NLT)
Go ahead! Give it a shot! Whether in your journal, on a piece of paper, or just in your mind, start making a list of the miracles of God. Just close your eyes and ponder what that list would hold.
First of all, it's a miracle that He Is! He is the great I AM! He is the miracle of miracles! God...the triune God...the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!!! He is the creator...of all...of everything that we can even begin to imagine! He holds time in His hands...and works outside of time. He loves beyond our ability to fathom...so much that He would send His Son from the majesty of heaven to walk among sinful men...to die for them...and rise again, conquering the grave!!! Miraculous love.
Work on your list. Paper cannot hold them all...nor our minds. Yet, we need to remember. Sometimes we just need to recite the marvelous things He has done. Miracles are not a thing of the past. God continues to perform them day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute, second by second. The air that you breathe...the heart that beats inside you...the power of your brain. Just keep recording.
And yes, then praise! And praise Him some more. It's true. We can never praise Him enough.
LORD, don't let us lose the wonder of the miraculous God that You are! We praise You...for who You are...for all You created...for Your unfailing, unfathomable love...for Jesus...Emmanuel! Forgive us for forgetting and taking miracles for granted...for not trusting You in all situations. Help us to remember. May Your praise always be on our lips! We love You.
Go ahead! Give it a shot! Whether in your journal, on a piece of paper, or just in your mind, start making a list of the miracles of God. Just close your eyes and ponder what that list would hold.
First of all, it's a miracle that He Is! He is the great I AM! He is the miracle of miracles! God...the triune God...the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!!! He is the creator...of all...of everything that we can even begin to imagine! He holds time in His hands...and works outside of time. He loves beyond our ability to fathom...so much that He would send His Son from the majesty of heaven to walk among sinful men...to die for them...and rise again, conquering the grave!!! Miraculous love.
Work on your list. Paper cannot hold them all...nor our minds. Yet, we need to remember. Sometimes we just need to recite the marvelous things He has done. Miracles are not a thing of the past. God continues to perform them day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute, second by second. The air that you breathe...the heart that beats inside you...the power of your brain. Just keep recording.
And yes, then praise! And praise Him some more. It's true. We can never praise Him enough.
LORD, don't let us lose the wonder of the miraculous God that You are! We praise You...for who You are...for all You created...for Your unfailing, unfathomable love...for Jesus...Emmanuel! Forgive us for forgetting and taking miracles for granted...for not trusting You in all situations. Help us to remember. May Your praise always be on our lips! We love You.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Oh Be Careful Little Mouth What You Say
"For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks." Matthew 12:34b (NIV)
Words. We use them everyday... all through the day. Words can be good...positive...uplifting...encouraging...God-honoring. Or words can be bad...negative...disheartening...destructive...profane.
Jesus said, "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." Matthew 12:34b-37
Those are strong words of warning. Let's heed them.
Oh Lord, "May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in Your sight...my Rock and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:14) Please fill my heart with You, Your Word, and Your Spirit so that is all there is available to overflow. Help me to guard my tongue. I pray that Your "praise will always be on my lips." (Psalm 34:1b) May my words...every word...honor You.
Words. We use them everyday... all through the day. Words can be good...positive...uplifting...encouraging...God-honoring. Or words can be bad...negative...disheartening...destructive...profane.
Jesus said, "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." Matthew 12:34b-37
Those are strong words of warning. Let's heed them.
Oh Lord, "May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in Your sight...my Rock and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:14) Please fill my heart with You, Your Word, and Your Spirit so that is all there is available to overflow. Help me to guard my tongue. I pray that Your "praise will always be on my lips." (Psalm 34:1b) May my words...every word...honor You.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Parched Land...Parched Mouths...Parched Souls
"I spread out my hands to You; my soul thirsts for You like a parched land." Psalm 143:6 (NIV)
The heat today is sweltering. Is it hot where you are? With temperatures hovering around the 100 degrees mark, it is just oppressive. Days have passed with no rain. Newscasters are beginning to warn us of drought conditions. The signs are there...cracked dirt...parched land.
Is your body feeling the effects of the heat? Are you being careful to time your outdoor activities so that you aren't out in the hottest part of the day? Are you drinking lots of water? Staying hydrated? Go ahead. Head to the fridge right now. Fix a nice tall glass of ice water. Keep your body, your brain, your skin healthy!
How's your soul feeling? Is it in need of a little refreshment? You are not alone. In Psalm 63:1, David said, "O God, You are my God, earnestly I seek You; my soul thirsts for You, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water." David was actually in the desert when he penned those words, actually feeling the analogy he expressed. In Psalm 42:1-2, the psalmist was experiencing a spiritual longing when he said, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God." His soul was parched.
Only God can satisfy parched souls. Jesus walked this earth, proving Himself as the one who fills empty vessels...giving living water that comes from a well that never will run dry.
Lord, satisfy our "thirsts" with Your Word...Your living water. Fill our souls with You. We need You. We long for You. We love You.
The heat today is sweltering. Is it hot where you are? With temperatures hovering around the 100 degrees mark, it is just oppressive. Days have passed with no rain. Newscasters are beginning to warn us of drought conditions. The signs are there...cracked dirt...parched land.
Is your body feeling the effects of the heat? Are you being careful to time your outdoor activities so that you aren't out in the hottest part of the day? Are you drinking lots of water? Staying hydrated? Go ahead. Head to the fridge right now. Fix a nice tall glass of ice water. Keep your body, your brain, your skin healthy!
How's your soul feeling? Is it in need of a little refreshment? You are not alone. In Psalm 63:1, David said, "O God, You are my God, earnestly I seek You; my soul thirsts for You, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water." David was actually in the desert when he penned those words, actually feeling the analogy he expressed. In Psalm 42:1-2, the psalmist was experiencing a spiritual longing when he said, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God." His soul was parched.
Only God can satisfy parched souls. Jesus walked this earth, proving Himself as the one who fills empty vessels...giving living water that comes from a well that never will run dry.
Lord, satisfy our "thirsts" with Your Word...Your living water. Fill our souls with You. We need You. We long for You. We love You.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Reaching Out...and Clinging
"My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me." Psalm 63:8 (NIV)
Have you ever noticed the tendrils on climbing plants like the Mandevilla? As they grow upward, they reach out...to whatever is nearby...and latch on, winding and weaving themselves in and around it for support. As you tend these plants, you have to provide a trellis or source of framework. You have to guide them, even train them to grow in the desired direction.
Are you growing? Are you advancing in a heavenward direction? Who are you reaching out to? What are you clinging to? What does your framework of support look like? How are you being trained?
We must "train [ourselves] to be godly...[for] godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come." 1 Timothy 4:7-8 We must weave ourselves through the latticework of God's Word, remembering that "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man [or woman] of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Lord, help us to reach out and cling to You. Teach us to trust in You as the source of all we need...strength, comfort, encouragement, direction, provision...anything. Train us through the power of Your Word in the way of righteousness and godliness. We love You.
Have you ever noticed the tendrils on climbing plants like the Mandevilla? As they grow upward, they reach out...to whatever is nearby...and latch on, winding and weaving themselves in and around it for support. As you tend these plants, you have to provide a trellis or source of framework. You have to guide them, even train them to grow in the desired direction.
Are you growing? Are you advancing in a heavenward direction? Who are you reaching out to? What are you clinging to? What does your framework of support look like? How are you being trained?
We must "train [ourselves] to be godly...[for] godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come." 1 Timothy 4:7-8 We must weave ourselves through the latticework of God's Word, remembering that "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man [or woman] of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Lord, help us to reach out and cling to You. Teach us to trust in You as the source of all we need...strength, comfort, encouragement, direction, provision...anything. Train us through the power of Your Word in the way of righteousness and godliness. We love You.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Is Your Fruit Dripping?
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing." John 15:5 (NIV)
Have you been enjoying the bounty of summer fruits? Have you indulged in the delights of watermelon, cantaloupes, honeydew, and peaches? Have you found yourself so overcome by their sweetness that you couldn't even wait to put them in a bowl and sit down at the table...and you just stood right over the sink...letting their juices run down your arms as you savored their succulence?
What kind of fruit are you bearing this summer? Is it "the fruit of the Spirit...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control"? (Galatians 5:22-23) You can't do that in your own power. You must "Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until He comes and showers righteousness on you." (Hosea 10:12) Apart from Him...the One who shows us unfailing love...we are incapable. We must abide in Him...and allow Him to abide in us. Then "The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever." (Isaiah 32:17)
Father, help us to allow Your Spirit to abide in us...to fill us with Your love and righteousness...so that we can "bear fruit [the fruit of Your Spirit]and become a splendid vine" (Ezekiel 17:8) that brings honor and glory to You!
Have you been enjoying the bounty of summer fruits? Have you indulged in the delights of watermelon, cantaloupes, honeydew, and peaches? Have you found yourself so overcome by their sweetness that you couldn't even wait to put them in a bowl and sit down at the table...and you just stood right over the sink...letting their juices run down your arms as you savored their succulence?
What kind of fruit are you bearing this summer? Is it "the fruit of the Spirit...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control"? (Galatians 5:22-23) You can't do that in your own power. You must "Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until He comes and showers righteousness on you." (Hosea 10:12) Apart from Him...the One who shows us unfailing love...we are incapable. We must abide in Him...and allow Him to abide in us. Then "The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever." (Isaiah 32:17)
Father, help us to allow Your Spirit to abide in us...to fill us with Your love and righteousness...so that we can "bear fruit [the fruit of Your Spirit]and become a splendid vine" (Ezekiel 17:8) that brings honor and glory to You!
Monday, June 28, 2010
What Needs "Fixing"?
"But my eyes are fixed on You, O sovereign LORD; in You I take refuge...." Psalm 141:8 (NIV)
Are there circumstances in your life...or of those around you...that need to be "fixed"? Broken relationships? Financial struggles? Job situations? A prodigal child...or one that just makes decisions with which you don't agree? Are you overwhelmed with the desire to do something? Do you just want to "fix it"?
Many times there are ways that we can help...by giving Godly counsel...through encouragement...lending a hand in one way or another.
Other times, we just need to do another kind of "fixing". We need to "Fix these words...in [our] hearts and minds." (Deut.11:18) Moses was speaking of God's instructions to the Israelites. Early on in the chapter, he reminded the people of the amazing works God had done on their behalf...the wonders of His love, His might, and His provision as they made their way to the Promised Land. In later verses, he told them what they need to do. A part of that was "to hold fast to Him."
We need to remember the love of our Father...remember His faithfulness in our past...and trust Him for the future. Often that requires "holding fast"...clinging to Him ever so tightly! We must seek Him, lay our burdens at His feet, pursue encouragement through His Word...and trust Him. "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:18)
"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith...." (Hebrews 12:2)
Jesus, help us to fix our eyes on You, to fix Your Word in our hearts, and to take refuge in You. Help us to trust...and to allow You to do Your work. We love you!
Are there circumstances in your life...or of those around you...that need to be "fixed"? Broken relationships? Financial struggles? Job situations? A prodigal child...or one that just makes decisions with which you don't agree? Are you overwhelmed with the desire to do something? Do you just want to "fix it"?
Many times there are ways that we can help...by giving Godly counsel...through encouragement...lending a hand in one way or another.
Other times, we just need to do another kind of "fixing". We need to "Fix these words...in [our] hearts and minds." (Deut.11:18) Moses was speaking of God's instructions to the Israelites. Early on in the chapter, he reminded the people of the amazing works God had done on their behalf...the wonders of His love, His might, and His provision as they made their way to the Promised Land. In later verses, he told them what they need to do. A part of that was "to hold fast to Him."
We need to remember the love of our Father...remember His faithfulness in our past...and trust Him for the future. Often that requires "holding fast"...clinging to Him ever so tightly! We must seek Him, lay our burdens at His feet, pursue encouragement through His Word...and trust Him. "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:18)
"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith...." (Hebrews 12:2)
Jesus, help us to fix our eyes on You, to fix Your Word in our hearts, and to take refuge in You. Help us to trust...and to allow You to do Your work. We love you!
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Feeling Weak or Afraid?
"Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night...." Joshua 1:8 (NIV)
Has God called you to a task? Is there something He wants you to do? Are you feeling weak? Not up for the job? Unworthy? Are you afraid?
Are there circumstances in your life that are causing you anxiety? A feeling of helplessness?
In Joshua 1:6-9...just four verses...the LORD told Joshua...not 1, not 2, but 3 times...to "Be strong and courageous." Joshua had reason to fear. Moses had died. Joshua was in charge now. It was his job to finish the final leg of the journey to the Promised Land. As the He was about to lead those fickle, often cranky Israelites across the Jordan River...at flood stage, God knew that He needed a large dose of reassurance!
God wants to encourage us too. We may not be called to such a daunting task, but whatever we are facing, God reminds us, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (v.9) He promised that [He] will be with [us]; [He] will never leave [us] or forsake [us]. (v.5)
Lord, lead us to meditate on Your Word and find the assurance, guidance, and help that we need. Give us strength and courage to obey Your commands...to walk the paths You want us to walk...and to face the raging rivers in our lives. We trust You, LORD.
Has God called you to a task? Is there something He wants you to do? Are you feeling weak? Not up for the job? Unworthy? Are you afraid?
Are there circumstances in your life that are causing you anxiety? A feeling of helplessness?
In Joshua 1:6-9...just four verses...the LORD told Joshua...not 1, not 2, but 3 times...to "Be strong and courageous." Joshua had reason to fear. Moses had died. Joshua was in charge now. It was his job to finish the final leg of the journey to the Promised Land. As the He was about to lead those fickle, often cranky Israelites across the Jordan River...at flood stage, God knew that He needed a large dose of reassurance!
God wants to encourage us too. We may not be called to such a daunting task, but whatever we are facing, God reminds us, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (v.9) He promised that [He] will be with [us]; [He] will never leave [us] or forsake [us]. (v.5)
Lord, lead us to meditate on Your Word and find the assurance, guidance, and help that we need. Give us strength and courage to obey Your commands...to walk the paths You want us to walk...and to face the raging rivers in our lives. We trust You, LORD.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Rough Roads...Reality and Refinement
Please visit my other blog, A Matter of Grace at http://www.kristibutler.blogspot.com/ for Grace for Today. Check back here tomorrow!
I love you and am praying for you!
I love you and am praying for you!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
When Things Don't Go According to Plan
"In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)
Have you ever felt like you were walking in obedience to God and somehow your feet just got knocked out from under you? It seemed that He had led you in a certain direction and then things just went kerplooey?Even when we are seeking Him at every turn...feeling like we're sure of His leading...sometimes the road just doesn't lead to the place we thought we were headed.
What do we do then??? We have to trust. We must believe that He is sovereign. We must cling to the fact that He sees the "big picture"...and that He is the God of the "big picture"!!
We might need to crawl up in His lap...that of our Abba...our Father and allow Him to comfort and reassure us. He surely allows us to have a good cry if we need it. And then we need to hand it over to Him...and to "Trust in the LORD with all [our] heart and lean not on [our] own understanding; in all [our] ways acknowledge Him, and He will make [our] paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6
Lord, we trust You...even when we don't understand the paths we must walk sometimes. "[We] do believe; help [us] overcome [our]unbelief!" (Mark 9:24) We acknowledge You...as our Father...our Shepherd...our guide...the One who loves us unfailingly. Show us Your way. Help us to follow willingly. We love you.
Have you ever felt like you were walking in obedience to God and somehow your feet just got knocked out from under you? It seemed that He had led you in a certain direction and then things just went kerplooey?Even when we are seeking Him at every turn...feeling like we're sure of His leading...sometimes the road just doesn't lead to the place we thought we were headed.
What do we do then??? We have to trust. We must believe that He is sovereign. We must cling to the fact that He sees the "big picture"...and that He is the God of the "big picture"!!
We might need to crawl up in His lap...that of our Abba...our Father and allow Him to comfort and reassure us. He surely allows us to have a good cry if we need it. And then we need to hand it over to Him...and to "Trust in the LORD with all [our] heart and lean not on [our] own understanding; in all [our] ways acknowledge Him, and He will make [our] paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6
Lord, we trust You...even when we don't understand the paths we must walk sometimes. "[We] do believe; help [us] overcome [our]unbelief!" (Mark 9:24) We acknowledge You...as our Father...our Shepherd...our guide...the One who loves us unfailingly. Show us Your way. Help us to follow willingly. We love you.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep
"Be still, and know that I am God...." Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
When you lay your head down to rest, does your mind refuse to be still? Does it run wild...in every direction? Do you go over things that you said or did during the day, questioning how they were perceived? Do you second-guess decisions you made? Do you worry about what tomorrow holds? Do you feel overwhelmed by future plans...even the minor ones?
God has the remedy. We must make the conscious effort to still our minds...to focus on Him...and to trust in Him. Turn your thoughts to prayer...and release them. God is able. He is all-powerful. He is a God of detail. We can count on Him. Rest.
Lord, You know our thoughts. You know our concerns, our doubts, our plans. Help us to trust them to You. Please still our minds. Help us to rest in You. We love you.
When you lay your head down to rest, does your mind refuse to be still? Does it run wild...in every direction? Do you go over things that you said or did during the day, questioning how they were perceived? Do you second-guess decisions you made? Do you worry about what tomorrow holds? Do you feel overwhelmed by future plans...even the minor ones?
God has the remedy. We must make the conscious effort to still our minds...to focus on Him...and to trust in Him. Turn your thoughts to prayer...and release them. God is able. He is all-powerful. He is a God of detail. We can count on Him. Rest.
Lord, You know our thoughts. You know our concerns, our doubts, our plans. Help us to trust them to You. Please still our minds. Help us to rest in You. We love you.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Wholeheartedly
"...serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind...." 1 Chronicles 28:9 (NIV)
What do you commit yourself to wholeheartedly ??? Your family? Your job? Your church? Your favorite source of leisure or recreation? Your devotion to God? We are such a generation of multitaskers. Can we even fathom the concept of wholehearted devotion? Are we able to visualize what wholehearted devotion might look like? Do we dare attempt verbalizing that we are wholeheartedly devoted to God...and to serving Him? Is our mind "willing"??
We need to ask Him to help us. We can't do it on our own. We need to stay in His Word. It will prod us on our way! Deuteronomy 4:29 says, "...if you seek the LORD your God, you will find Him if you look for Him with all your heart and with all your soul." Deuteronomy 11:13 says, "...if you faithfully obey the commands I am giving you today - to love the LORD your God and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul" you will be blessed and satisfied...in Him. We find in Hebrews 11:6 that "...He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Let's seek Him with our whole hearts...all our soul...faithfully obeying...loving Him...serving Him!
Lord, we need You to help us! Give us undivided hearts. Guide us. Give us willing minds. We desire to seek you earnestly! Draw us to Yourself. We love You!
What do you commit yourself to wholeheartedly ??? Your family? Your job? Your church? Your favorite source of leisure or recreation? Your devotion to God? We are such a generation of multitaskers. Can we even fathom the concept of wholehearted devotion? Are we able to visualize what wholehearted devotion might look like? Do we dare attempt verbalizing that we are wholeheartedly devoted to God...and to serving Him? Is our mind "willing"??
We need to ask Him to help us. We can't do it on our own. We need to stay in His Word. It will prod us on our way! Deuteronomy 4:29 says, "...if you seek the LORD your God, you will find Him if you look for Him with all your heart and with all your soul." Deuteronomy 11:13 says, "...if you faithfully obey the commands I am giving you today - to love the LORD your God and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul" you will be blessed and satisfied...in Him. We find in Hebrews 11:6 that "...He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Let's seek Him with our whole hearts...all our soul...faithfully obeying...loving Him...serving Him!
Lord, we need You to help us! Give us undivided hearts. Guide us. Give us willing minds. We desire to seek you earnestly! Draw us to Yourself. We love You!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Chosen by The Father
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the Word of Truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all He created." James 1:17-18 (NIV)
Your Heavenly Father chose you! Can you even begin to fathom that?? You were designed by the Master Creator..."the Father of the heavenly lights." You are an intentional part of His plan. Just ponder that.
The NIV Disciple's Study Bible, referring to James 1:18 says, "God chose to give us life. He provided true spiritual life by the revelation of purpose and life in the gospel. He wants us to become the finest offering to God, models of life as God intended." Wow, what an honor...what a responsibility! Can you imagine being the "finest"???
God has given us His Word to teach, strengthen, comfort, and encourage us. He loves us unconditionally, perfectly, and His love is everlasting. He loves us as only He...our Heavenly Father...can. Amazing.
Lord, thank You for choosing us to be Your own. Thank You for trusting us with the responsibility of representing You. Please make us the models that You intended. Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for being unchanging. Thank You for being ever-present. Thank You for Your love. Thank You for "every good and perfect gift." Help us as we seek to be an offering of love...the "finest" offering...to You. We love you.
Your Heavenly Father chose you! Can you even begin to fathom that?? You were designed by the Master Creator..."the Father of the heavenly lights." You are an intentional part of His plan. Just ponder that.
The NIV Disciple's Study Bible, referring to James 1:18 says, "God chose to give us life. He provided true spiritual life by the revelation of purpose and life in the gospel. He wants us to become the finest offering to God, models of life as God intended." Wow, what an honor...what a responsibility! Can you imagine being the "finest"???
God has given us His Word to teach, strengthen, comfort, and encourage us. He loves us unconditionally, perfectly, and His love is everlasting. He loves us as only He...our Heavenly Father...can. Amazing.
Lord, thank You for choosing us to be Your own. Thank You for trusting us with the responsibility of representing You. Please make us the models that You intended. Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for being unchanging. Thank You for being ever-present. Thank You for Your love. Thank You for "every good and perfect gift." Help us as we seek to be an offering of love...the "finest" offering...to You. We love you.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
The Comfort of Home
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort...." 2 Corinthians 1:3 (NIV)
Don't you love getting back into your own home after a vacation? There's just nothing like your bed...your favorite chair...and familiar surroundings. It is such a comfort.
We have a Heavenly Father who waits for us. His arms are our "home". He is the "God of all comfort"...knowing just what we need...just what makes us feel secure. He is always there. His love never fails. As the old hymn says, "Softly and tenderly [He] is calling, 'Come home.'"
Father God, thank You for being our place of comfort...our place of rest...our place of security...our source of unending, unfailing love. Help us to relax in Your arms. We love You.
Don't you love getting back into your own home after a vacation? There's just nothing like your bed...your favorite chair...and familiar surroundings. It is such a comfort.
We have a Heavenly Father who waits for us. His arms are our "home". He is the "God of all comfort"...knowing just what we need...just what makes us feel secure. He is always there. His love never fails. As the old hymn says, "Softly and tenderly [He] is calling, 'Come home.'"
Father God, thank You for being our place of comfort...our place of rest...our place of security...our source of unending, unfailing love. Help us to relax in Your arms. We love You.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Thrillseeker...or Not
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 (NIV)
Are you a thrillseeker? Would you skydive? Have you bungee jumped? Do you like roller coasters? Or are you more on the cautious side...looking for the safe and secure?
Thrillseeker or not, this life is like a rollercoaster...and unlike skydiving, bungee jumping, or any other breathtaking adventures, you can't really "opt out". No, you must brave the steep climb (ch, ch, ch, ch, ch, ch, ch, ch) and hold on tight for the downward plunge. You have to brace yourself...or try to relax your muscles...in preparation for the bumpy ride. Hopefully you have adequate "cushioning" of friends or loved ones to lean on in the crazy turns that threaten to squoosh you along the way.
Here's a little reminder that "we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed....Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:7-9, 16-18)
Yes, this "thrill ride" is laden with hills and valleys. Jesus, Himself, told us that "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33b) One day the ride will be over...and that's when the real ultimate thrill comes, when we see Him face to face...when all things are made new...when there are no more tears and sadness...when we see through His eyes.
Lord, you know that this life is not for the faint of heart. You cautioned us that there would be troubles here. Thank You for the assurance that there is victory in You. Keep reminding us that these light and momentary troubles...even when they don't feel light or momentary...are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all! Ride close beside us, Lord. Help us feel Your presence and Your peace. We love You. We need You.
Are you a thrillseeker? Would you skydive? Have you bungee jumped? Do you like roller coasters? Or are you more on the cautious side...looking for the safe and secure?
Thrillseeker or not, this life is like a rollercoaster...and unlike skydiving, bungee jumping, or any other breathtaking adventures, you can't really "opt out". No, you must brave the steep climb (ch, ch, ch, ch, ch, ch, ch, ch) and hold on tight for the downward plunge. You have to brace yourself...or try to relax your muscles...in preparation for the bumpy ride. Hopefully you have adequate "cushioning" of friends or loved ones to lean on in the crazy turns that threaten to squoosh you along the way.
Here's a little reminder that "we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed....Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:7-9, 16-18)
Yes, this "thrill ride" is laden with hills and valleys. Jesus, Himself, told us that "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33b) One day the ride will be over...and that's when the real ultimate thrill comes, when we see Him face to face...when all things are made new...when there are no more tears and sadness...when we see through His eyes.
Lord, you know that this life is not for the faint of heart. You cautioned us that there would be troubles here. Thank You for the assurance that there is victory in You. Keep reminding us that these light and momentary troubles...even when they don't feel light or momentary...are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all! Ride close beside us, Lord. Help us feel Your presence and Your peace. We love You. We need You.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Flawed...but Forgiven
"But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8 (NIV)
Do you ever take great care to do your nails...the cuticle remover and conditioning, the filing, the nail polish..a really fun summer shade like "Mango-Get-Em"...finished off with an extra coat? And then before even a couple of days have passed...especially if your hands have been in dishwater...the polish starts chipping and your nails no longer look quite so lovely?
Flawed fingernails. Not a pretty sight...but easily remedied with a little polish remover.
Way more serious than our nails is the state of our hearts. All of us sin. Darkness threatens to overtake the beauty of our Christian witness. It is a situation that demands immediate attention. We must remember that "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9 The blood of Christ is the "remover" we need. Oh, the depth of God's love and mercy to us!
Lord, we draw near to You, submitting ourselves to you, confessing our sin. We ask You to purify our hearts and make us clean. Help us to live lives worthy of the sacrifice You made. Create in us beauty that draws others unto You.
Do you ever take great care to do your nails...the cuticle remover and conditioning, the filing, the nail polish..a really fun summer shade like "Mango-Get-Em"...finished off with an extra coat? And then before even a couple of days have passed...especially if your hands have been in dishwater...the polish starts chipping and your nails no longer look quite so lovely?
Flawed fingernails. Not a pretty sight...but easily remedied with a little polish remover.
Way more serious than our nails is the state of our hearts. All of us sin. Darkness threatens to overtake the beauty of our Christian witness. It is a situation that demands immediate attention. We must remember that "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9 The blood of Christ is the "remover" we need. Oh, the depth of God's love and mercy to us!
Lord, we draw near to You, submitting ourselves to you, confessing our sin. We ask You to purify our hearts and make us clean. Help us to live lives worthy of the sacrifice You made. Create in us beauty that draws others unto You.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Did You Put on Your "WorldScreen"?
"Put on the full armor of God...." Ephesians 6:11 (NIV)
When you go out in the sun, you put on your sunscreen. Right? If not, here's your reminder. You need protection from the sun! After you get your daily dose of Vitamin D (which takes about 15 minutes), then you need coverage. Guard your health. Preserve your skin.
In the same way, when you go out into the world, you need to be covered! Shield your mind. Safeguard your heart.
In Ephesians 6, Paul instructs us to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms....Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
So let's cover all the bases before we go out...into the sun...or into the world.
Lord, please shield us today. Put a hedge of protection around our bodies, our minds, our hearts. Help us to take the time to take action and do our part...before we head out.
When you go out in the sun, you put on your sunscreen. Right? If not, here's your reminder. You need protection from the sun! After you get your daily dose of Vitamin D (which takes about 15 minutes), then you need coverage. Guard your health. Preserve your skin.
In the same way, when you go out into the world, you need to be covered! Shield your mind. Safeguard your heart.
In Ephesians 6, Paul instructs us to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms....Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
So let's cover all the bases before we go out...into the sun...or into the world.
Lord, please shield us today. Put a hedge of protection around our bodies, our minds, our hearts. Help us to take the time to take action and do our part...before we head out.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Just Wait...With as Much of a Good Attitude as Possible
"I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in His Word I put my hope." Psalm 130:5 (NIV)
Lines, lines, lines...waiting, waiting, waiting. There are lines at WalMart, the grocery store, in traffic, at restaurants, at the DMV, at stoplights, and even at Disneyland..."the happiest place on earth"...and Disney World...the place "where dreams come true." How is your attitude when you have to wait?
Life holds lots of waiting...and not just in lines. Sometimes you have to wait for direction, wait for test results, wait for healing, wait for a job opening, wait for someone to come to know the Lord. How do you handle waiting?
One thing is for sure. If we are waiting on the LORD, it will definitely be worth it. We are promised in Isaiah 64:4 that "Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him." Our hope is in Christ alone. He is the only source of true happiness. He is the One who can really make our dreams come true.
Lord, help us to wait on You...with good attitudes. We love You. We trust You.
Lines, lines, lines...waiting, waiting, waiting. There are lines at WalMart, the grocery store, in traffic, at restaurants, at the DMV, at stoplights, and even at Disneyland..."the happiest place on earth"...and Disney World...the place "where dreams come true." How is your attitude when you have to wait?
Life holds lots of waiting...and not just in lines. Sometimes you have to wait for direction, wait for test results, wait for healing, wait for a job opening, wait for someone to come to know the Lord. How do you handle waiting?
One thing is for sure. If we are waiting on the LORD, it will definitely be worth it. We are promised in Isaiah 64:4 that "Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him." Our hope is in Christ alone. He is the only source of true happiness. He is the One who can really make our dreams come true.
Lord, help us to wait on You...with good attitudes. We love You. We trust You.
Monday, June 14, 2010
The Feel of His Hand
"If the LORD delights in a man's way, He makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he willl not fall for the LORD upholds him with His hand." Psalm 37:23 (NIV)
Think about the hands that you hold...your spouse's, your parents', your friend's, your child's. Are there some that you know "the feel" of so completely?? They bring comfort...love...security.
Do you know "the feel" of God's hands??? Can you imagine the power that they hold...the amount of comfort...love...and security that they possess? Cling tight today. He is able to meet your need...fulfill your longings...protect you...and guide you.
Trust in Him today. Take hold of His hand!
Lord, thank You for Your love. Thank You for Your promises. Thank You for upholding us in Your hands!
Think about the hands that you hold...your spouse's, your parents', your friend's, your child's. Are there some that you know "the feel" of so completely?? They bring comfort...love...security.
Do you know "the feel" of God's hands??? Can you imagine the power that they hold...the amount of comfort...love...and security that they possess? Cling tight today. He is able to meet your need...fulfill your longings...protect you...and guide you.
Trust in Him today. Take hold of His hand!
Lord, thank You for Your love. Thank You for Your promises. Thank You for upholding us in Your hands!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Manicured Lawns...Sunday Faces
"Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)
Things aren't always as they appear...neither are people's hearts.
When you walk or ride past lovely homes with perfectly manicured lawns, don't you think that it's natural to assume that what's on the inside is equally in exceptional order? That the decor matches that of one you would see in Better Homes and Gardens, is meticulously clean, and the family inside "has it all together" too?
As you mingle with those at church, all nicely "made-up" and smiles on their faces, do you tend to think that their lives are equally lovely...and trouble free? Do you even wish that you could be more like them and enjoy the life they live?
You just never know what's going on "on the inside"...what struggles lurk within.
Just ponder that and pray. Just as Luke tells us in Acts 2:42, "Devote [your]selves to the apostles' (pastor's, teacher's) teaching, and to the fellowship (small groups, Sunday School, social gatherings...experiencing life with them), to the breaking of bread (more fellowship...with food!) and to prayer." Be tender toward the Word, and to the Spirit's whispers.
Be careful not to assume. Be careful not to judge...positively or negatively. Instead, be "faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12
Lord, give us discerning hearts. Guide us as we pray. Help us to see beyond outward appearances, and pray for what's within. Help us all as we walk this journey of life...with its joys and its trials...to be encouraged in Your Word, and to share that encouragement with others and continually lift them to you in prayer.
Things aren't always as they appear...neither are people's hearts.
When you walk or ride past lovely homes with perfectly manicured lawns, don't you think that it's natural to assume that what's on the inside is equally in exceptional order? That the decor matches that of one you would see in Better Homes and Gardens, is meticulously clean, and the family inside "has it all together" too?
As you mingle with those at church, all nicely "made-up" and smiles on their faces, do you tend to think that their lives are equally lovely...and trouble free? Do you even wish that you could be more like them and enjoy the life they live?
You just never know what's going on "on the inside"...what struggles lurk within.
Just ponder that and pray. Just as Luke tells us in Acts 2:42, "Devote [your]selves to the apostles' (pastor's, teacher's) teaching, and to the fellowship (small groups, Sunday School, social gatherings...experiencing life with them), to the breaking of bread (more fellowship...with food!) and to prayer." Be tender toward the Word, and to the Spirit's whispers.
Be careful not to assume. Be careful not to judge...positively or negatively. Instead, be "faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12
Lord, give us discerning hearts. Guide us as we pray. Help us to see beyond outward appearances, and pray for what's within. Help us all as we walk this journey of life...with its joys and its trials...to be encouraged in Your Word, and to share that encouragement with others and continually lift them to you in prayer.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
A Poem...A Prayer
Good morning. How are You today, Lord?
I'm pretty tired, it seems.
Could you be in charge today, Lord?
I'm too tired to pull all those strings.
What's that? Did I hear You chuckle?
Are You shaking Your head at Me?
Saying, "My dear child, have you forgotten?
That yoke is no burden to me.
Dear child, since the beginning
I managed to do pretty awesome things
And somehow I don't recall
Ever seeing you pulling the strings.
Oh, forgive me dear Lord for the many times
That I'm so quick to forget
That You are the source that sustains me
And You haven't failed anyone yet.
Thank You for being the One in control
Of all that I face each day.
I pray that You'll help me to yield to You
All power - and that I'll just obey.
Author Kristi Butler
I'm pretty tired, it seems.
Could you be in charge today, Lord?
I'm too tired to pull all those strings.
What's that? Did I hear You chuckle?
Are You shaking Your head at Me?
Saying, "My dear child, have you forgotten?
That yoke is no burden to me.
Dear child, since the beginning
I managed to do pretty awesome things
And somehow I don't recall
Ever seeing you pulling the strings.
Oh, forgive me dear Lord for the many times
That I'm so quick to forget
That You are the source that sustains me
And You haven't failed anyone yet.
Thank You for being the One in control
Of all that I face each day.
I pray that You'll help me to yield to You
All power - and that I'll just obey.
Author Kristi Butler
Friday, June 11, 2010
Charge Complete
"...Be strong in the LORD [be empowered by your union with Him]; draw your strength from Him [that strength which His boundless might provides]. Ephesians 6:10 (Amplified Bible)
How many gadgets do you have around your house that have rechargeable batteries? How many do you have that must be recharged daily? Cell phone? Computer? Once we've plugged them into the source of power, when the process of replenishing is over, they often give us a message to inform us that the task has been accomplished, announcing..."Charge Complete."
Do you need to be "recharged"? Do you have the need for an extra boost of power?? There's one way...plugging into the source of ultimate power. That's God...the creator of the universe. Can you even begin to fathom the power that it took to bring this world into being? That's only the beginning (and not just literally!) That same God is the One who can bring the dead to life! Can you imagine the force behind resurrection power???
As Paul said to the church at Ephesus, "I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and the incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion...." Ephesians 1:17-21 (NIV)
That power is available to us!! Let's run to His Word! Let's bend the knee in prayer! Let's seek Him with all our hearts...and receive. Let's get charged up!
Our mighty God...we "pray that from [Your] glorious, unlimited resources [You] will empower [us] with inner strength through [Your] Spirit." Eph. 3:16 (NLT) Please recharge our souls, our hearts, our minds with the power of You! Show us your boundless might! Oh how we love You!
How many gadgets do you have around your house that have rechargeable batteries? How many do you have that must be recharged daily? Cell phone? Computer? Once we've plugged them into the source of power, when the process of replenishing is over, they often give us a message to inform us that the task has been accomplished, announcing..."Charge Complete."
Do you need to be "recharged"? Do you have the need for an extra boost of power?? There's one way...plugging into the source of ultimate power. That's God...the creator of the universe. Can you even begin to fathom the power that it took to bring this world into being? That's only the beginning (and not just literally!) That same God is the One who can bring the dead to life! Can you imagine the force behind resurrection power???
As Paul said to the church at Ephesus, "I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and the incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion...." Ephesians 1:17-21 (NIV)
That power is available to us!! Let's run to His Word! Let's bend the knee in prayer! Let's seek Him with all our hearts...and receive. Let's get charged up!
Our mighty God...we "pray that from [Your] glorious, unlimited resources [You] will empower [us] with inner strength through [Your] Spirit." Eph. 3:16 (NLT) Please recharge our souls, our hearts, our minds with the power of You! Show us your boundless might! Oh how we love You!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Longing for Some Shade?
"The LORD watches over you-the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night." Psalm 121:5 (NIV)
In this summer heat, isn't it nice to find a spot in the shade where you can feel a cool breeze and be sheltered from the sun? Shade can make the difference between sweltering and comfortable...well, maybe in the hottest of times, at least bearable!
When the fires...the trials...the testing of this life seem to be too hot to handle, what a blessing to know that "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1 Just think about that!!! He, the LORD, is our shade. It's in His shadow that we can rest. Can you imagine how big that shadow is!?!?!?
Are you dwelling in His shelter? Are you seeking Him as your refuge and your strength? Are you trusting Him enough to find rest? Are you crying out to Him in prayer? Praising Him even though the fires rage? Are you seeking comfort in His Word? Run to Him. "He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him." 2 Samuel 22:31.
Great and mighty God, allow us to rest in Your shadow. "Spread Your protection over [us] that [we] who love Your Name may rejoice in You." Psalm 5:11 You are mighty to save! We love you!
In this summer heat, isn't it nice to find a spot in the shade where you can feel a cool breeze and be sheltered from the sun? Shade can make the difference between sweltering and comfortable...well, maybe in the hottest of times, at least bearable!
When the fires...the trials...the testing of this life seem to be too hot to handle, what a blessing to know that "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1 Just think about that!!! He, the LORD, is our shade. It's in His shadow that we can rest. Can you imagine how big that shadow is!?!?!?
Are you dwelling in His shelter? Are you seeking Him as your refuge and your strength? Are you trusting Him enough to find rest? Are you crying out to Him in prayer? Praising Him even though the fires rage? Are you seeking comfort in His Word? Run to Him. "He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him." 2 Samuel 22:31.
Great and mighty God, allow us to rest in Your shadow. "Spread Your protection over [us] that [we] who love Your Name may rejoice in You." Psalm 5:11 You are mighty to save! We love you!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Our Walk with the Lord
"Yes, LORD, walking in the way of Your laws, we wait for You; Your Name and renown are the desire of our hearts." Isaiah 26:8 (NIV)
Are you one who enjoys walking...for the exercise? Do you walk in your neighborhood, at a park, at the gym, on a treadmill? Walking is a great way of working toward physical fitness, just as walking in the way of His Word develops our spiritual fitness.
Are there any hills on your walking path (or an inclined setting on your treadmill)? Do you get winded? Do your legs begin to ache? In your Christian walk, have you encountered hills that may have seemed impossible to climb, that caused your heart to ache? Psalm 142:3,5 says, "When my spirit grows faint within me, it is You who know my way....I cry to You, O LORD; I say, 'You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living." Walk in His strength, my friend. Lean on those everlasting arms.
This time of year, do you feel the sun beating down? Is the humidity stifling? Does it just make you want to head indoors to the air conditioning? On the journey of life, do you feel as though you are walking through a "fire"? Remember, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you....When you walk through the fire you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, Your Savior....Do not be afraid, for I am with you." Isaiah 43:2-3,5a
Don't you just love it when you are walking and a cool breeze blows your way...when you smell the scent of gardenias along the path...when you get to enjoy the smile of, maybe even time to chat with a neighbor or friend? God is in that breeze, His aroma around us, and He sends us those people to encourage us along our way. "Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim [Him], who walk in the light of [His] presence." Psalm 89:15 In our daily walks...physical and spiritual...there is tremendous gratification in knowing that as we go...as we persevere, we are growing stronger in body and spirit.
Lord, thank You for Your willingness to inhabit these bodies of ours, for allowing us to be temples that house Your holiness. Help us to keep ourselves fit...in strength and spirit. Thank You for the assurance that You walk with us...that You never leave us or forsake us. "Teach [us] Your way, O LORD, [so that we] will walk in Your truth; give [us]...undivided heart[s], that [we] may fear Your Name." Psalm 86:11(NIV)
Are you one who enjoys walking...for the exercise? Do you walk in your neighborhood, at a park, at the gym, on a treadmill? Walking is a great way of working toward physical fitness, just as walking in the way of His Word develops our spiritual fitness.
Are there any hills on your walking path (or an inclined setting on your treadmill)? Do you get winded? Do your legs begin to ache? In your Christian walk, have you encountered hills that may have seemed impossible to climb, that caused your heart to ache? Psalm 142:3,5 says, "When my spirit grows faint within me, it is You who know my way....I cry to You, O LORD; I say, 'You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living." Walk in His strength, my friend. Lean on those everlasting arms.
This time of year, do you feel the sun beating down? Is the humidity stifling? Does it just make you want to head indoors to the air conditioning? On the journey of life, do you feel as though you are walking through a "fire"? Remember, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you....When you walk through the fire you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, Your Savior....Do not be afraid, for I am with you." Isaiah 43:2-3,5a
Don't you just love it when you are walking and a cool breeze blows your way...when you smell the scent of gardenias along the path...when you get to enjoy the smile of, maybe even time to chat with a neighbor or friend? God is in that breeze, His aroma around us, and He sends us those people to encourage us along our way. "Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim [Him], who walk in the light of [His] presence." Psalm 89:15 In our daily walks...physical and spiritual...there is tremendous gratification in knowing that as we go...as we persevere, we are growing stronger in body and spirit.
Lord, thank You for Your willingness to inhabit these bodies of ours, for allowing us to be temples that house Your holiness. Help us to keep ourselves fit...in strength and spirit. Thank You for the assurance that You walk with us...that You never leave us or forsake us. "Teach [us] Your way, O LORD, [so that we] will walk in Your truth; give [us]...undivided heart[s], that [we] may fear Your Name." Psalm 86:11(NIV)
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Entering His Courts with Praise
"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His Name." Psalm 100:4 (NIV)
You have an open invitation to the courts of the King of Kings! Just ponder that a moment! God longs for your presence. There's no need for an RSVP. He just says, "Come." Anytime...anywhere. "Come" when times are good. Rejoice in Him and with Him! "Come" when times are bad. Remember, He says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30 Just "Come."
And how should we come?? Psalm 100 gives us some instruction. "Shout for joy to the LORD , all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His Name. For the LORD is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations."
There's an old Sandy Patti song called "Let There Be Praise" that says, "He inhabits the praise of His people and dwells deep within. The peace that He gives none can equal. His love it knows no end....When the Spirit of God is within us, we will overcome. In our weakness His strength will defend us, when His praise is on our tongue." He desires to inhabit your very being. He longs to dwell with you!
Whether the praise comes easy...or whether it's a struggle to find it somewhere in the depths of your being, just start singing. We are His people, the sheep of His pasture. He is good. His love endures forever. His faithfulness continues through all generations. Let's enter His courts with praise.
Lord, Your love and compassion are beyond our comprehension. We thank You for unfailing, unending love. You are great! We praise you! Keep your songs of praise on our tongues today.
You have an open invitation to the courts of the King of Kings! Just ponder that a moment! God longs for your presence. There's no need for an RSVP. He just says, "Come." Anytime...anywhere. "Come" when times are good. Rejoice in Him and with Him! "Come" when times are bad. Remember, He says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30 Just "Come."
And how should we come?? Psalm 100 gives us some instruction. "Shout for joy to the LORD , all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His Name. For the LORD is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations."
There's an old Sandy Patti song called "Let There Be Praise" that says, "He inhabits the praise of His people and dwells deep within. The peace that He gives none can equal. His love it knows no end....When the Spirit of God is within us, we will overcome. In our weakness His strength will defend us, when His praise is on our tongue." He desires to inhabit your very being. He longs to dwell with you!
Whether the praise comes easy...or whether it's a struggle to find it somewhere in the depths of your being, just start singing. We are His people, the sheep of His pasture. He is good. His love endures forever. His faithfulness continues through all generations. Let's enter His courts with praise.
Lord, Your love and compassion are beyond our comprehension. We thank You for unfailing, unending love. You are great! We praise you! Keep your songs of praise on our tongues today.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Hot Manna Now
"How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" Psalm 119:103 (NIV)
Do you like Krispy Kreme Doughnuts??? There's nothing like seeing that neon sign announcing Hot Doughnuts Now! Just imagine it...warm, melt in your mouth, delectable sweetness. Wouldn't that just get your day off to the right start...with a yummy cup of coffee??
Remember how the Israelites ate manna in the wilderness? Exodus 16 tells us that "The LORD said to Moses, 'I will rain down bread from heaven for you.'(v.4)...The people of Israel called the bread manna. It was white like coriander seed and tasted like wafers made with honey."(v.31) Priscilla Shirer, in her book One in a Million states that, "It may have looked something like porridge, some scholars believe, but it actually tasted like more Krispy Kreme Doughnuts." Wouldn't you like a sample? Just think, each day from God's very own hands, such delightful provision.
This morning your breakfast may not be Krispy Kremes...and most assuredly not manna, but along with your coffee and whatever fare you choose, be sure to "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man [or woman] who takes refuge in Him." Psalm 34:8 Spend time being nourished in His Word.
Lord, thank You for being our "Bread of Life." Thank You for the sweetness of Your Word, the provision of Your presence. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit. Live in us today.
Do you like Krispy Kreme Doughnuts??? There's nothing like seeing that neon sign announcing Hot Doughnuts Now! Just imagine it...warm, melt in your mouth, delectable sweetness. Wouldn't that just get your day off to the right start...with a yummy cup of coffee??
Remember how the Israelites ate manna in the wilderness? Exodus 16 tells us that "The LORD said to Moses, 'I will rain down bread from heaven for you.'(v.4)...The people of Israel called the bread manna. It was white like coriander seed and tasted like wafers made with honey."(v.31) Priscilla Shirer, in her book One in a Million states that, "It may have looked something like porridge, some scholars believe, but it actually tasted like more Krispy Kreme Doughnuts." Wouldn't you like a sample? Just think, each day from God's very own hands, such delightful provision.
This morning your breakfast may not be Krispy Kremes...and most assuredly not manna, but along with your coffee and whatever fare you choose, be sure to "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man [or woman] who takes refuge in Him." Psalm 34:8 Spend time being nourished in His Word.
Lord, thank You for being our "Bread of Life." Thank You for the sweetness of Your Word, the provision of Your presence. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit. Live in us today.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Day by Day
"The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning." Lamentations 3:22-23 (NLT)
Dear one, I pray that you feel God's faithful, unfailing love this morning. It is everlasting. His mercies are new for you this morning...every morning. They never cease! Aaaah, what a precious thought. You can begin this new day afresh, wrapped in His love, held in His arms, sheltered by His mercies.
Each day we have the privilege of starting anew. We can leave those old failures, struggles, and fears behind. Take a step toward a new beginning, remembering that we must look toward and cling to the Rock of Ages...the One Who is faithful to a thousand generations...the One who goes before us and behind us...our Deliverer...the Perfecter of our faith.
Like the manna provided daily...just what the Israelites needed for that day...are God's mercies and His provision for us. As the wonderful hymn reminds us, "Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with thee; Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not; As thou hast been thou forever wilt be....Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide; Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed thy hand hath provided; Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!"
Lord, thank Your mercies, blessings, and faithfulness. Thank You for daily provision. Thank You for pardon, peace, and presence. Thank You for strength for today...and bright hope for tomorrow. You are great...and greatly to be praised!
Dear one, I pray that you feel God's faithful, unfailing love this morning. It is everlasting. His mercies are new for you this morning...every morning. They never cease! Aaaah, what a precious thought. You can begin this new day afresh, wrapped in His love, held in His arms, sheltered by His mercies.
Each day we have the privilege of starting anew. We can leave those old failures, struggles, and fears behind. Take a step toward a new beginning, remembering that we must look toward and cling to the Rock of Ages...the One Who is faithful to a thousand generations...the One who goes before us and behind us...our Deliverer...the Perfecter of our faith.
Like the manna provided daily...just what the Israelites needed for that day...are God's mercies and His provision for us. As the wonderful hymn reminds us, "Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with thee; Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not; As thou hast been thou forever wilt be....Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide; Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed thy hand hath provided; Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!"
Lord, thank Your mercies, blessings, and faithfulness. Thank You for daily provision. Thank You for pardon, peace, and presence. Thank You for strength for today...and bright hope for tomorrow. You are great...and greatly to be praised!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Peace That Passes Understanding
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7 (NIV)
How did you sleep last night? What's filling your mind this morning? What are the circumstances that you face today...and in the days ahead? Is peace prevailing in your heart...in your mind...in your life?
God promises us peace. Peace that passes understanding...yes, peace that we can't fathom. But it comes with a requirement for us to do our part. Isaiah 26:3 (NIV) says, "[He] will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You." The New Living Translation says "all whose thoughts are fixed on You." Where are your thoughts fixed? On God? On your circumstances? We must practice trusting. When our thoughts stray from the Lord, when our level of trust is compromised, we must remember to "Trust in the LORD with all [our] heart and lean not on [our] own understanding; in all [our] ways acknowledge Him and He will make [our] paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) He will give us peace. He will give us direction. We must look up...to Him, not out...at what's going on around us.
"Finally, brothers [and sisters], whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praise worthy-think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8-9 (NIV)
Lord, today, please grant us peace. Guard our thoughts and our hearts. Help us to place our trust in You...completely. Put a song of victory on our lips. Keep us steadfast. We love you.
How did you sleep last night? What's filling your mind this morning? What are the circumstances that you face today...and in the days ahead? Is peace prevailing in your heart...in your mind...in your life?
God promises us peace. Peace that passes understanding...yes, peace that we can't fathom. But it comes with a requirement for us to do our part. Isaiah 26:3 (NIV) says, "[He] will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You." The New Living Translation says "all whose thoughts are fixed on You." Where are your thoughts fixed? On God? On your circumstances? We must practice trusting. When our thoughts stray from the Lord, when our level of trust is compromised, we must remember to "Trust in the LORD with all [our] heart and lean not on [our] own understanding; in all [our] ways acknowledge Him and He will make [our] paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) He will give us peace. He will give us direction. We must look up...to Him, not out...at what's going on around us.
"Finally, brothers [and sisters], whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praise worthy-think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8-9 (NIV)
Lord, today, please grant us peace. Guard our thoughts and our hearts. Help us to place our trust in You...completely. Put a song of victory on our lips. Keep us steadfast. We love you.
Friday, June 4, 2010
The Lover of Your Soul is Calling...Arise!
"Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul." Psalm 143:8 (NIV)
God is calling you. He wants you to get up before the day becomes hectic and full of activity, before you get distracted with all that the day has in store. He desires for you to come to Him first. He longs for you. He watches for you to wake. Sometimes He even wakes you up because He is so excited to begin the day with you.
Ponder the thought that He...the God of the universe, the Creator of all life, the Savior of the world...is the Lover of your soul. He loves you unfailingly, deeply. He calls to you today, "Rise up, my darling! Come away with me, my fair one! Look, the winter is past and the rains are over and gone. The flowers are springing up, the season of singing birds has come, and the cooing of the turtledoves fills the air. The fig trees are forming young fruit, and the fragrant grapevines are blossoming. Rise up, my darling! Come away with me, my fair one!" Song of Songs 2:10-13 (NLT)
He has love to lavish upon you today. Will you allow Him?
Lord, awaken us to Your love, to Your joy, to Your peace and Your guidance for our day. Cause our hearts to long for You the way that You long for us.
God is calling you. He wants you to get up before the day becomes hectic and full of activity, before you get distracted with all that the day has in store. He desires for you to come to Him first. He longs for you. He watches for you to wake. Sometimes He even wakes you up because He is so excited to begin the day with you.
Ponder the thought that He...the God of the universe, the Creator of all life, the Savior of the world...is the Lover of your soul. He loves you unfailingly, deeply. He calls to you today, "Rise up, my darling! Come away with me, my fair one! Look, the winter is past and the rains are over and gone. The flowers are springing up, the season of singing birds has come, and the cooing of the turtledoves fills the air. The fig trees are forming young fruit, and the fragrant grapevines are blossoming. Rise up, my darling! Come away with me, my fair one!" Song of Songs 2:10-13 (NLT)
He has love to lavish upon you today. Will you allow Him?
Lord, awaken us to Your love, to Your joy, to Your peace and Your guidance for our day. Cause our hearts to long for You the way that You long for us.
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