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Archive for April, 2026

Our All in All

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Jesus, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on April 30, 2026| 29 Comments »

(A personal praise-psalm)

You, Lord Jesus Christ, are our Source of everything—the salvation of our souls, the sustainer of our lives, the sufficiency in all our circumstances, the Supreme One over all (Colossians 1:16-18)!

For example:

As you, O Christ were raised from the dead . . .  we too may live a new life (Romans 6:4).

Our lives can be marked by wholeness, contentment, freedom, authentic fellowship with you and with each other. “It’s life as it was always meant to be”*—if we choose it.

In you, O Christ we become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17).

You give us new views, new desires, new motives, new principles to live by, new plans for our lives, new purpose. 

I praise you that over the decades you’ve been working these entities into my life slowly but surely. (I’ve been the slow part, you are the surely part!)

With you, O Christ, we are heirs of God and fellow heirs with you (Romans 8:17).

God is our Father and we are his. We’re under his care, privileged with access in his presence, blessed with his peace, joy, and more. He is our King, and one day we will live with you, Lord Jesus, in our Father’s kingdom of heaven.

Because of you, O Christ, we can come boldly and confidently into God’s presence (Ephesians 3:12 NLT).

You have made it possible for us to draw near–no matter how unworthy we may feel–into the safety, security, and warmth of God’s presence. There we can turn over our burdens to him and rest in his love.

Through you, O Christ, we can do all things which you call us to do (Philippians 4:13).

You provide the inner strength and power to fulfill God’s purpose for us; you make us ready for anything and equal to anything!

The converse is also true:

Apart from you, O Christ, we can do nothing (John 15:5).

Our Father God didn’t design us to be self-sufficient, independent creatures. Relationship was his key motivation for creating us. The greatest outcomes result from working together with you, Lord Jesus, and also the greatest joy.

For you, O Christ, we’ve been commissioned as ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20 ESV).

We’re your representatives, privileged to act and speak on your behalf. We get to invite those around us to receive your gift of eternal life and begin a life-changing relationship with you. 

No other gift is as desirable; no other privilege more thrilling.

From you, O Christ, we receive an anointing (1 John 2:20a) for our work as your ambassadors.

Just like the kings and prophets of Old Testament times, you set us apart for special purpose, giving us divine authority and blessing as your servants.

You provide the Holy Spirit—our Helper, Teacher, and Guide, who empowers, transforms, renews, and more.

On you, O Christ, we fix our thoughts (Hebrews 3:1), because . . . 

. . . “What we focus on is what we become” (Epictetus, Greek philosopher).

How glorious to become like you—loving, selfless, humble, and gracious—all those beautiful qualities you demonstrated when you lived on earth. 

Shalom is sure to follow.

To you, O Christ, be glory (2 Peter 3:18)!

You are the source of all blessings. From you and through you and to you are all things.

May all see the splendors of who you are and what you do; may all desire to know you and enjoy every benefit you graciously bestow.

Amen!

*https://thegracecommentary.com/romans-6/

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Sacred Hands Behind the Scenes

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on April 23, 2026| 38 Comments »

Just for fun, I pulled my God Is Faithful journal off the shelf and flipped the pages to several decades ago—years when Steve served in the pastorate, our three children still lived at home, and I was a stay-at-home mom, then teacher.

God certainly worked behind the scenes for our family and created magnificent poetry. Here are a few examples:

THE POETRY OF ANSWERED PRAYER

11-11-85 I prayed with N. concerning a worrisome visit with her disagreeable aunt that afternoon. The next day N. told me the visit went beautifully. No doubt God not only worked through N., but prepared her aunt’s heart also.

9-27-89 I’d been praying God would affirm Steve during a difficult season. On this date he received a kind and supportive note from a parishioner.

11-7-89 The books my students had ordered from Scholastic Books were long past due for arrival. I’d forgotten to xerox the order form and checks before sending them snail mail, and now had no proof-of-purchase. (This was before online ordering.)

That night I prayed for God to intervene for me. When I arrived at school the next morning, there was the book-order box on my desk.

THE POETRY OF GOD’S FAVOR 

6-18-86 A man came to our door with my wallet in his hand. He’d found it on the sidewalk several blocks away, where I’d somehow dropped it while returning home from an errand. (I’d walked in order to incorporate exercise into the day.)

I hadn’t even realized yet my wallet was missing!

1-13-88  I didn’t set the alarm properly, but awoke anyway the next morning—out of a sound sleep—at 5:15 on the dot, just when I was supposed to get up.

12-26-92 During our family Christmas Brunch (just the five of us—no visiting family), Steve asked the children what God had done for them in 1992.

E. said God had helped him become more focused and motivated at school. H. said he’d helped her feel better about herself and she’d been happier since the mission trip that summer. J. said he was thankful to go to a good school. 

We enjoyed a great time of family togetherness, focusing on God and his participation in our lives.   

THE POETRY OF GOD’S INTERVENTION

3 -25-88 I made it to Spring Break! In spite of 1,000 things to do in an impossible time frame, God brought me through. Actually, what He did was remove about 900 of those tasks!

I couldn’t believe how one thing after another took care of itself or was postponed. God worked out everything superbly.

6-1-89 I drove H. to ballet class in Steve’s new stick-shift Colt, so pleased that muscle-memory kicked in and we arrived with no mishaps or “frogging.” But after parking the car, I mistakenly left it in neutral.

When I came out of the school the car was not where I’d left it, but had rolled across the aisle into the matching spot on the other side, as if I’d parked there instead.

(Sometimes I feel like such a toddler in God’s family—he has to watch over me every minute!)

10-9-90 A contentious issue in our church came to a vote. We heard rumblings that some unhappy people were urging a “no” vote. But the discussion proceeded smoothly with a prevailing spirit of unity, and in the end a strong majority voted “yes.”

God had worked in people’s hearts; Steve felt as though we’d turned a corner.

5-29-92 I was registered to attend a week-long class, held at a hotel. When I arrived the desk clerk said the class had been canceled. Just then, another attendee, Ruth, approached the desk. We deliberated about what to do.

Though it was early evening on a Friday and the offices of the host school would likely be closed, we decided to call anyway. 

A woman just happened to be there who told us the location had been changed to another hotel. Ruth and I were among those who’d registered early, before the change, and somehow had never been notified.

*     *     *

God’s sacred hands do indeed weave poetry into our lives! And . . .

You’ve no doubt experienced episodes of God’s goodness similar to those described above. Please share an example in the comments below.

Your illustration of God-woven poetry may be just what someone else needs to read!

Image credits: http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.pickpik; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.needpix.com.

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Uplift

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Strength, Hope, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Peace, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on April 16, 2026| 46 Comments »

A prayer in the midst of distress:

Heavy concerns weigh upon my heart, Lord,

beyond my abilities to remedy.

My thoughts bounce from faith-affirmations 

to faltering “what-ifs.”

I wonder, “How long, O Lord; how long?” (Psalm 6:3)

And so I come, to curl up on your footstool (Psalm 132:7), 

to rest in your comforting presence ( Psalm 62:1),

to catch my breath, slow my heart rate, and

look to you for uplift in my mind and spirit (Psalm 145:14).

I hear your tender voice reminding me:

“I am watching over you (Psalm 121:8),

surrounding you with my unfailing love (Psalm 32:10). 

Just as I’ve promised in my Word,

I will provide guidance for the path ahead (Proverbs 3:5-6)

and the power to endure (Isaiah 40:29).

I am faithful in all I do, never forsaking those who seek me (Psalm 36:5; Psalm 9:10).

Remember, I have always been your help (Psalm 46:1);

I have always sustained you through every challenge (Isaiah 41:10).”

Thank you, Father, for your reassurances.

Already I feel strength returning to my soul (Psalm 138:3)

and hope cheering my heart (Psalm 94:19).

I praise you for your attentiveness (Matthew 10:29-31)—

your watchful care, unfailing love, and reliable guidance, 

your unstoppable power, everlasting faithfulness, and ever-ready help.*

I picture you reaching down,

cupping my chin in your hand,

and lifting my head to look into your eyes (Psalm 3:3)—

eyes that speak-without-words of your love,

compassion, patience, and forgiveness.*

And in my heart I hear you reaffirm:

“Know this:

As you come into my presence and

allow me to lift your head (Psalm 3:3)—

To encourage, edify, and inspire your spirit,

I will bestow multiple blessings, including:

ALLEVIATION—

As I firmly support you to bear these burdens (Psalm 68:19),

ANTICIPATION—

for the intervention I can provide (Isaiah 64:4),

CONSOLATION—

to ease the distress (Matthew 11:28-29).

INSPIRATION—

to press on with confidence (Galatians 6:9),

LIBERATION—

 from crippling guilt and nagging doubts (Romans 8:1; Isaiah 41:10),

MANIFESTION—

of my comforting, empowering presence (Psalm 23:4), and

RESTORATION—

of hope to fuel your spirit and faith to carry on (Isaiah 40:31).

“Then the uplift of your spirit will become evident

In the uplift of your face (Proverbs 27:19),

as trust supersedes concern, and

expectation displaces doubt.”

I praise you, Lord—

You’ve heard my cry for mercy.

You are my strength and shield;

my heart trusts in you, and you help me (Psalm 28:6-7).

Hallelujah!

*Psalms 103 and 145 celebrate many of God’s awesome attributes.

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With Fear and Great Joy

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, Jesus, Joy, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on April 9, 2026| 26 Comments »

The women were Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, mother of the disciple James. They’d witnessed the crucifixion of Christ, had been present when Joseph of Arimathea buried Christ, and arrived first at the tomb that Sunday morning, to anoint their Lord’s body with spices.

But as they approached, a violent earthquake threw them to the ground and an angel, bright-white as lightning, descended from the sky. Even the Roman soldiers guarding the tomb became frozen with fear.

The angel paid them no attention and set about rolling the massive stone away from the tomb. Then he sat upon it. The women warily peeked inside; Jesus wasn’t there.

No doubt they huddled in fear as these events unfolded in rapid succession. But the angel reassured them, “Do not be afraid.” He then announced Christ had risen from the dead, and they must go quickly to tell his disciples (1).

Can you imagine their conversation as they hurried to the upper room where these men would likely be gathered?

“I’ve never been so frightened in all my life! My heart is still pounding.”

“And I’m still shaking! Have you ever seen someone glow like that?”

“No indeed! 

“I can scarcely believe what he told us. How is this possible?”

“Jesus did raise Lazarus from the dead. It must be true.” 

“But what if the disciples don’t believe us? They’re going to think we’re crazy.” 

And so, with trepidation the two Marys made their way to the house with the upper room. 

Yet their hearts were also filled with joy. Jesus was alive! It was the most glorious news they could hope to hear. And they’d been chosen to announce it.

____________________

We too experience fear and joy at the same time, in spite of the fact these emotions occupy opposite ends of the spectrum.

Think how you felt when hired for that highly-desired job. Worries may have included: Will I be up to the task? Able to fit in with other employees? Get along with the boss? But you were also thrilled for the opportunity God had provided, just as you’d hoped and prayed.

Think about your wedding day. You and the love of your life would soon promise to cherish one another for the rest of your days. The thought certainly brought great joy, but perhaps a niggle of fear as well. Will our love last, or will we fall prey to division?

Think about the birth of your first child. No other joy compares to bringing new life into the world. But, this tiny, fragile creature is now your responsibility for the next eighteen years—at least. It’s a fearsome thing to contemplate. 

This joy-and-fear combination is also part of our experience with God, all-powerful and awe-inspiring as he is, capable of fearsome acts. After all, he once annihilated an enemy-army of 185,000 in one night (2). 

To fear God—reverence him and highly respect him—is a wise choice!  

Then, as we face worrisome unknowns and fears begin to rise, we can still take joy in such blessings as:

  • God’s unfailing strength and goodness to carry us through
  • Scripture-promises to quiet our spirits
  • Enhanced intimacy with God as he draws especially near with comfort and encouragement 

And during the process of the unknown becoming known, we discover God’s plan includes multiple delights.

Steve and I saw this occur in all six churches where he served as pastor during forty years of ministry. Each seemed a fearsome challenge for different reasons, and yet we also felt the joy of expectation, to see what God would do.

And each church did provide multiple delights, as God blessed us and others.

Praise God, he “guides us only into that which will finally result in our joy and radiance, even if it means passing through pain”(3)–or fear, we might add.

Imagine the joy and radiance of the two Marys as they followed the angel’s instructions and made their announcement!

The same pleasure can be ours—in spite of fear—as we follow God’s guidance for us.

__________

Notes:

  1. Matthew 27:32-61; 28:1-8; Mark 16:1-7
  2. 2 Kings 19:32-36
  3. Dane C. Ortlund, In the Lord I Take Refuge, 90.

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Patience, Persistence, and Promise

Posted in Excellence, Faith, God's Delight, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, Jesus, Obedience, Praise, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on April 2, 2026| 33 Comments »

The Agony in the Garden, by Francesco Trevisani, 1740

I praise You, Lord Jesus, Founder of our faith and supreme exemplar of what the life of faith looks like. You demonstrated what it means to live in continual obedience to our Father [1], doing nothing of your own initiative but only what God directed you to do.

In the Garden of Gethsemane you poignantly affirmed trusting submission, even while anguishing over the suffering to come [2].

Yet you acquiesced to your Father’s will. You trusted your Righteous Father to provide the supernatural strength you’d need, knowing his right hand would sustain you, and he’d provide ultimate victory [3].

Your submission cost you horrific pain yet you endured to the end. By comparison, my submission has cost me little and yet I sometimes balk at even small sacrifices.

How dare I stoop to complaining and self-pity when people don’t respond the way I think they should, when disagreeable tasks require attention and I ignore them, when “little” temptations beset me and I make excuses to give in?

Oh Lord, forgive me for losing sight of your example. Remind me too that obedience is not for performance’ sake but for love’s sake [4]. Out of gratitude, I do want my love for you to overflow; out of love, I do want my submission to you to grow.  

I praise You, Lord Jesus, that you are the Perfector of my faith [5]. You didn’t just set me on the path to abundant life and then leave me to figure out the journey on my own.

“Your Spirit has enlightened my understanding of spiritual matters, developed my conscience, drawn my affections toward things of eternal value, created the desire within me to follow [your] will, with new motives, principles, and purpose” (Unknown) [6].  

THANK YOU!

You guide and empower, to mold my life into what is useful and even beautiful. You faithfully work to release me from those things that ensnare me [7]. How gracious you are!

You change my perspective, so I can see things from your point of view; you work repentance in my heart, desiring to purify and transform me, day by day, into your likeness [8]. That’s my desire too.

I’ve not been an easy project for you, Lord, given my stubbornness and slowness to learn.  And yet, scripture assures me your continual inner-work within me is for your good pleasure [9]. You do it because it gives you pleasure! That astounds me.

How thankful I am to belong to you, that you never give up on me. You never tire of wielding your transforming power, to refine all your children into radiant reflections of you [10].

I praise you, Jesus, for your patience and persistence! And I praise you for your promise, that you’ll carry to completion the good things you—with all your wisdom, goodness, and love—have planned for me [11].

May I be an enthusiastic participant to the end!

 

[1] Hebrews 12:2; 1 Peter 2:21; John 6:38

[2] John 5:30; Matthew 26:36-46

[3] Philippians 2:6-8; Psalm 18:32, 35b; 37:39-40

[4] John 14:15

[5] Hebrews 12:2

[6] Ephesians 1:18; Hebrews 9:14; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18; Philippians 2:13; Ephesians 4:24-26; Ezekiel 36:26-27

[7] John 16:13; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 2:10; Psalm 25:15

[8] Romans 12:2; 1 John 1:9; Romans 2:4; 2 Corinthians 3:18

[9] Philippians 2:13

[10] Hebrews 13:5; 2 Corinthians 3:18

[11] 1 Timothy 1:16; Luke 15:4-7; Philippians 1:6

Image credits: http://www.picryl.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.freerangestock.com (Lia Leslie).

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