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Archive for the ‘Blessings’ Category

A Sheer Gift

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Strength, Intimacy with God, Maturity, Perseverance, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on October 23, 2025| 38 Comments »

‘Won’t be long and we’ll either be the asker or receiver of the question, “What would you like for Christmas?”

Here’s one answer you likely won’t hear: “Give me some tests and challenges, please!”

And yet, in the Bible we find this encouragement written by James, the half-brother of Jesus:

What could he possibly have meant? How can tests and challenges be considered gifts?

And then we might remember the saying, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”

James does mention strength that comes from perseverance, contributing to maturity and spiritual competency (v. 3). But difficult circumstances produce even more, including these ten aspects of the gift of trials:

GREATER GODLINESS

Pressure will make us into the kind of people God wants us to be—more responsive to him, more like him [1]. (And isn’t that who we want to be also?)

HEIGHTENED AWARENESS OF GOD’S PRESENCE

In the darkness of adversity, we’re able to see more clearly the radiance of his face. It happens as we spend time with him, and he ministers to us [2].

INCREASED SPIRITUAL POWER

God creates more friction when he desires to create more power in our lives [3].

Think of Joseph’s trials before becoming prime minister of Egypt, or David’s troubles while on the run from King Saul, or Jonah’s suffering in the belly of the great fish before preaching in Nineveh.

STRENGTHENED CONFIDENCE

Trouble strengthens our confidence that with God, we can endure whatever difficulties the future may hold [4].

A CLEARED PATHWAY

Some storms come, not to disrupt our lives, but to clear our path [5].

For example, a young couple we know put an offer on a house they really liked, but the sale fell through. Highly disappointing, of course, but that cleared the path for a better-suited home at a better price.

And during the season of waiting, they learned lessons in faith and perseverance.

ENHANCED EMPATHY

The pressure we endure helps us understand the challenges faced by others, equipping us to empathize and help [6].

ETERNAL INFLUENCE

God will make our sacrifice of suffering count for all eternity [7]. The person who serenely trusts God to bring good out of their pain demonstrates the power of faith and draws others to Christ.

SWEET DISCOVERIES

“It is often through the most difficult trials that God brings the sweetest discoveries of himself” [8].

During a particularly trying season, I sensed God next to me in the car every day while driving to the school where I taught. His sweet presence was so palpable I sometimes had to blink away tears.  

A SIGN OF VALUE

Trials indicate we’re precious to God. Otherwise, why would he spend so much time and energy perfecting us [9]?

ENHANCED JOY

Paul wisely advised we think on those things that are excellent and praiseworthy [10], turning our minds from what hurts to what helps—gratitude. To do so magnifies our joy, even during troublesome times.

These bits are from my gratitude journal:

  • An hour-plus of fun with the toddlers at church. Who can think about troubles when playing with little ones?
  • Six different species of birds, frolicking in the backyard trees–a veritable circus to enjoy.
  • The prayer of a friend that warmed the heart and lifted the spirit
  • The treasure of family, whose love and support are especially meaningful during stressful times
  • The good medicine of laughter. I texted our younger son that his third niece had taken her first steps. “I don’t understand what the big deal is,” he wrote back. “I’ve been doing that for years!”

And there you have it. Ten facets of the sheer gift that tests and challenges bring into our lives—all wrapped in God’s unfailing love.

The question is, will we receive it?

[1] Selwyn Hughes, Every Day Light, 142; Romans 12:1; 2 Corinthians 3:18

[2] Sarah Young, Jesus Calling, 361; Psalm 89:15-17a

[3] Based on an A.B. Simpson quote.

[4]Sarah Young, Jesus Always, 152; Philippians 4:13 AMP

[5] Unknown.

[6] A.B. Simpson, quoted in Streams in the Desert, 197; Philippians 1:6 AMP

[7] F. Elaine Olsen, Beyond the Scars, 163.

[8] L. B. Cowman, Streams in the Desert, Jim Reimann, ed., 143.

[9] L. B. Cowman, 77.

[10] Philippians 4:8

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Joy-Makers

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Joy, Praise, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , on October 2, 2025| 30 Comments »

Doesn’t that sound perfectly blissful—fullness of joy? According to the verse above, that kind of joy can be found in the presence of our Heavenly Father, at his right hand of favor.

That’s because, “There has never been a parent on earth who wants joy for his or her children as much as your Father in heaven wants joy for you, his child” [1].

To that end, God has provided numerous ways for us to experience his joy—all augmented as we share in each pleasure with him.

Just for fun, I took that phrase fullness of joy and challenged myself to create an acronym from its letters, to name some of the joy-makers our Heavenly Father provides. Then I dressed up each statement with the best-fitted quotes I could find:

F oster your relationship with God; F east on a world filled with his wonders (Psalm 92:4).

“When I am consciously aware of him,

life fills with wonder and wonder brings joy” [2].

U se time, gifts, and talents to bless others (Proverbs 11:25).

“In spreading my joy, God restored ME. MY JOY WAS FULL!

. . . As we pour out ourselves for others,

we ourselves are renewed” [3].

L ive in community with other believers (Psalm 133:1).

“When large numbers of people share their joys in common,

the happiness of each is greater

because each adds fuel to the others’ flame” [4].

L ift your voice in prayer (John 16:24).

“When I think upon and converse with Thee,

ten thousand delightful thoughts spring up,

then a thousand sources of pleasure are unsealed,

then a thousand refreshing joys spread over my heart,

crowding every moment with happiness . . .

I love Thee above the powers of language to express” [5].

N ourish your spirit with scripture (Psalm 19:8).

“[The Bible] is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory,

and a river of pleasure” [6].

E xperience God’s presence (Psalm 21:6).

“The difference between tears and laughter

is found in being aware of the presence of God” [7].

S pend time outdoors, reveling in creation (Psalm 104:24-25).

“Time outdoors accomplishes a three-fold blessing:

better health, better mind, and better spirit” [8].

S ing (Psalm 100:1)!

“Nothing is more indicative of a fulfilled life,

a contented soul, and a happy heart

than the expression of song” [9].

O ffer encouragement to others (Proverbs 11:25).

“When someone does something good, applaud—

you’ll make two people happy” [10].

F ill your heart with gratitude (Psalm 9:1-2).

“Joy doesn’t cause us to be grateful;

joy is born out of our gratitude” [11].

J ump for joy–because sometimes you have to reach for it (Psalm 28:7)!

“Begin to rejoice in the Lord,

and your bones will flourish like an herb,

and your cheeks will glow

with the bloom of health and freshness.

Worry, fear, distrust, care—all are poisonous!

Joy is balm and healing,

and if you will but rejoice, God will give power” [12].

O ffer praise for who God is (Psalm 145).

“As I decreased my praise time, my joy also decreased.

I found out that when I made a habit

of intentionally giving God the praise he deserves,

I appreciated life so much better” [13].

Y ield to God’s ways, designed for our good that we may prosper (Psalm 19:7-8).

“The ultimate purpose of obedience is joy” [14].

By way of these Joy-Makers and more, we can experience the fullness of joy God wants to bring to our lives—the kind that permeates each moment as we abide in his presence.

Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous,

and shout for joy, all you upright in heart!

–Psalm 47:1 ESV

(P.S. Continue your praise, guided by the free resource offered below as part of our newsletter!)

[1] Timothy Keller, Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, p. 238.

[2] Deanna Chadwell, contributor to Soul Bare, 83.

[3] Barbara Johnson, Pack Up Your Gloomies in a Great Big Box, 197.

[4] St. Augustine, Confessions.

[5] From a Puritan prayer included in Valley of Vision by Arthur Bennett.

[6] Anonymous.

[7] Beth Moore, Believing God Bible study workbook, 44.

[8] F. Elaine Olson, Peace for the Journey, 191.

[9] John MacArthur, Ephesians, 256.

[10] Sam Goldwyn.

[11] Brother David Steindl-Rast.

[12] A. B. Simpson.

[13] Thelma Wells, contributor to Boundless Love, 231.

[14] Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller, Songs of Jesus, 199.

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STILL AVAILABLE: “Thirty Days of Praise”–scriptures and question-prompts to draw our hearts and minds toward the joy of celebrating God.

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Restore, Refresh, Renew

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Dreams, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Strength, Godly Character, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on September 11, 2025| 30 Comments »

One fall years ago, we visited friends in North Carolina during peak leaf season.  At the time, Steve and I lived in Florida. It had been years since we’d enjoyed autumn leaves.

The day after our arrival, plans included a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to take in all the festive foliage of: birch (yellow), dogwood (deep red), oak (russet to maroon), red maple (from yellow to maroon), sassafras (orange), and more.

But our much-anticipated excursion had to be postponed due to fog and rain.

On Day Three we finally ventured forth, and surveyed mountains transformed. Dust had been washed away, sunlight reflected from gleaming leaves, and the vibrant colors took our breath away.

Sometimes the dust of concern, discontentment, frustration and more can accumulate in my spirit, clouding the colors of joy and awareness of God’s presence. Life loses its luster.

My eyes miss his blessings, my ears miss his words, my heart misses moments of intimacy with him.

What then? Is there refreshing rain for the soul? Oh yes!

God himself renews. All we have to do is ask [1], perhaps with such a prayer as this:

Restore my EYES, Father. May the tears of repentance clear my vision to see more clearly the beauty of your perfections.

And with an enhanced view of you, I’ll be able to view all other things more clearly [2]–like what you want to show me instead of what I want to see.

Refresh my MOUTH, O God. May I be quick to share gracious words with others as well as appreciation and songs of praise to you for your marvelous deeds.

King Solomon wrote, “The tongue has the power of life and death.” Keep me mindful of this power, to use my words as refreshing balm for others, for my own spirit, and to celebrate you also [3].

Renew my EARS, O Lord—to be attentive to your gentle whisper within.  May I heed your instruction as you train me in the delight of right-doing, and lead me ever deeper into the abundant life you provide.

Tune my ears to hear your words of inspiration, cheering me on [4].

Restore my MIND, Father—my understanding, thoughts, and intentions. The things I think are the things that impact my soul.

May I meditate on all the wonders of your attributes and think Christ-honoring thoughts, becoming more Christ-like as a result [5].

Refresh my HEART, O Lord—my motivations, dreams, and desires. I want my heart to align with yours because I know that’s the first step toward fulfilling purpose and satisfaction in life.

Turn my heart, I pray, from what I’d like to have happen, to who you’d have me become—a reflection of your image. That’s where contentment lies [6].

Renew my SPIRIT, O God—my faith, passions, and confidence. May I navigate the challenges of this day with your strength pulsing through my spirit.

Remind me: when negativity or frustration begin to rise, you are my God of help to quell such emotions.

When setbacks occur, you are my God of guidance to show me the way forward, and when disappointments come, you are my God of hope who brings good out of every situation [7].

I praise you, Father, that I can rely upon you to wash away the grime of discouragement, listlessness, and aggravation.

Because of your compassionate love and with your omnipotent power you will restore, refresh, and renew my inner self—just as you have promised.

Begin this moment, I pray.

Restore my eyes, to see more clearly.

Refresh my mouth, to speak gratitude, grace, and praise.

Renew my ears to listen well (and then obey).

Restore my mind to think Christ-honoring thoughts.

Refresh my heart to align my desires with yours.

Renew my spirit to navigate this day with your strength.

P.S. Try renewing your spirit with “Thirty Days of Praise,” offered below (as part of the newsletter).

 

[1] Psalm 51:10b

[2] Psalm 119:15; 50:2. Last statement based on Selwyn Hughes, Every Day Light, Day 1.

[3] Psalm 98:1; Proverbs 16:24

[4] Proverbs 2:1-5; 1 Kings 19:11-13; John 10:10

[5] Hannah Whitall Smith, quoted in Values for Life, 256; Psalm 143:5; Romans 12:1-2

[6] 2 Corinthians 3:18

[7] Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 32:8; Romans 15:13

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STILL AVAILABLE: “Thirty Days of Praise”–scriptures and question-prompts to draw our hearts and minds toward the joy of celebrating God.

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Everything Serves God’s Purpose

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Will, God's Wisdom, Hope, Maturity, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , on August 7, 2025| 34 Comments »

(A personal, prayer-response:)

How I love this passage, Lord, with its comfort and reassurance!

Paul reminds me here that You, O God, are all-wise and all-knowing; You know what’s best for each of us.

You cause all things to work together for our benefit, for those who love You (Romans 8:28).

Sometimes though, I have to admit, certain events confound and frustrate me. My finite mind cannot understand what good you could possibly bring out of:

  • Severe financial setbacks for a godly family
  • A rejection letter from a mission board for an eager candidate
  • An announcement of divorce between a respected couple in the church
  • A cancer diagnosis for a young mother
  • The death of a child

But those of us who trust in You know that we can count on Your wisdom and knowledge in all things, and the absolute dependability of Your character—Your benevolent goodness, Your perfect righteousness, Your deep compassion, Your unfailing faithfulness and infinite love (to name a few)—even in the face of struggle and tragedy.

Remind me, Father, that “making room for mystery in my worldview”(1) is an important element of spiritual maturity.

And to demonstrate that mature trust, I can follow Job’s example. His first response to catastrophe was worship (Job 1:20).

And as I worship, I can praise and thank You, not only for those blessings I see but also for those I can’t.

Help me Father to rest in the knowledge that:

  • Out of Your infinite wisdom, You select the best possible conclusion of events, and You adopt the best possible means for accomplishing that conclusion (2).
  • You are the Most High God, Lord of heaven and earth. You are subject to no one and influenced by no one; neither can anyone thwart or hinder Your plans (3).
  • Even my mistakes could never obstruct Your will.
  • You, on the other hand make no mistakes. Your choices for me are always right, because they come from Your perfect mind and heart. You always know exactly what you’re doing.
  • “Everything from You and for You” (v. 36) often includes mundane tasks, tedious routine, and lack of recognition. But I can count on the fact that, “in the midst of what seems terribly ordinary, You—in your wisdom and power–are doing something extraordinary” (4).
  • Everything serves Your purpose (5). You direct everything toward the conclusion you ordained for it.

May I be joyfully submissive to Your plans for me, in light of these marvelous truths!

Notes:

  1. Sarah Young, Jesus Always, 65. 
  2. Based on a J. L. Dagg quote, www.gracequotes.com.
  3.  Based on an A. W. Pink quote, www.gracequotes.com.
  4. Alice Mathews, A Woman God Can Use, 77.
  5. A quote my dad copied into one of his Bibles, source unknown.

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Have I Got Good News for YOU!

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Salvation, Heaven, Hope, Jesus, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , on July 31, 2025| 39 Comments »

She stands before the judge, tears filling her eyes, as one misdeed after another plays out on a Jumbotron for all to see.

He waves his arm toward the mammoth screen. “The evidence is clear,” he thunders. “You’ve committed numerous indiscretions. What do you have to say for yourself?”

Her response is barely audible. “I am guilty as charged, your Honor.”

“Highly disappointing,” he asserts.  “However, my Book of Life does indicate you accepted the gift of eternal life made possible by my Son, so you will be allowed to enter heaven, but of course, your place will be far to the rear.

“You can also expect far fewer blessings in my celestial kingdom, compared to those who have lived truly saintly lives. You understand, of course.”

She nods and bows her head in shameful misery.  

Such a scene is imaginary, of course, but reflects the fear and foreboding I used to feel toward the Judgment Day to come, when it’s my turn to face the Judge of all the earth.

After all, he is holy and I am a wretched sinner—even as a Jesus-follower. And though God has provided the way for me to escape hell when I die, he’ll have every right to reprimand me, even banish me to some far corner of heaven.

Perhaps you’ve been plagued by such thoughts as well. If so, have I got good news for YOU!

First, consider this passage from a praise-psalm of King David:

A rather surprising reason to rejoice, agreed?

David goes on to explain: “He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his faithfulness” (v. 13).

Could God judge any other way? No. He is holy and perfect in all that he does and says.

That means all his righteous and faithful perfections will come into play as he fulfills this role: his compassion and grace, wisdom and discernment, goodness, patience, and more.

We can rest assured: on Judgment Day God will not divorce himself from these attributes and become a stern, vindictive, and unforgiving judge.

He is for us, not against us [1].

In addition we mustn’t forget that God is rich in mercy [2]–mercy “so great that you may sooner drain the sea of its water, or deprive the sun of its light, or make space too narrow, than diminish the great mercy of God”–Charles Spurgeon [3].

Another factor to keep in mind: the affirming promise the Apostle Paul included in his letter to the Romans. For clarity’s sake, here’s the Amplified Version:

“There is now no condemnation [no guilty verdict, no punishment] for those who are in Christ Jesus [who believe in Him as personal Lord and Savior]” [4].

Elsewhere Paul makes clear: the charge of our legal indebtedness has been cancelled.

I repeat, cancelled.

We have already been judged ‘not guilty’ in the courts of heaven.

—Sarah Young, Jesus Always, 236.

In fact, our sins are removed as far as the east is from the west [5].

So how might that opening scenario proceed differently for that Christ-following woman, standing before the Judge of all the earth?

He may open his Book of Life, find her name, and announce, “Ah! Here you are! Your debt has been fully paid by my Son.”

Then perhaps he’d lean forward on his forearms and smile warmly upon her. “Proceed through those doors to your right, my child, and enjoy forever my complete peace, joy, and blessing!”

 *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

I praise you, O God, for your gift of salvation, not granted grudgingly because you feel sorry for us wretched creatures, but because you love us. That love is manifested by your kindness and compassion in spite of our sinful tendencies.

And now we can stand in a place of confidence and peace as we anticipate our homegoing to heaven—with no fear of retribution. Thank you, Lord God, our Father!

(Romans 5:8; Psalm 103:8-14; John 5:24)

P.S. Though all those who believe in Christ will receive all the benefits of eternal life in heaven, the rewards we receive for godly behavior will differ [6].

What might those rewards include and how do we earn them? Topics for another day!

[1] Romans 8:31b

[2] Ephesians 2:4-5

[3] Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892), British preacher and author

[4] Romans 8:1 AMP

[5] Psalm 103:12

[6] John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 2:9; 3:8

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All Things Beautiful

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Strength, God-Given Abilities, Godly Character, Intimacy with God, Jesus, Joy, Maturity, Perseverance, Renewing the Mind, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on July 24, 2025| 49 Comments »

Most tourists to Rome will visit St. Peter’s Basilica and find their way to the Chapel of the Pietá. There resides the striking statue carved by Michelangelo when he was only twenty-four years old.

For the viewer, the subject matter evokes sad commiseration with the grieving mother, and yet the artistry of the statue manifests incomparable beauty in Mary’s tranquil expression, the luxurious folds of her robe, and the peaceful repose of Jesus’ face.

Perhaps Michelangelo wished to convey Mary’s relief that the anguish of her Son was over. Jesus’ expression might indicate his satisfaction in perfectly executing the Father’s mission.  

The Pietá gives evidence: beauty may be its most captivating when viewed in juxtaposition against suffering. And Michelangelo superbly represented the two entities in this one statue.

Yet there is One who surpasses even the great Renaissance sculptor in the compelling intertwining of beauty and suffering: our heavenly Father. His medium? The lives of his children.

He can make all things beautiful—even suffering.

Perhaps you’ve known people who’ve endured much—physically, mentally, and/or emotionally. And among them are those who’ve manifested the beauty of strong faith.

We’ve seen heavenly joy in their eyes, even amidst the tears.

We’ve heard the winsome affirmations of God’s palpable, sustaining presence and even of God’s blessings during their season of trouble.

We’ve witnessed their striking maturity in the way they react to their circumstances.

 These saints have embraced the truth that:

How do people find the wherewithal to radiate such loveliness of spirit even as they suffer?

Beauty-in-Suffering Begins with Trust

Of course, it begins with strong trust in God—in his sovereignty over all things, his grace to uphold, and in his power to accomplish purpose through hardship. Such people can say:

Just look at what the Lord can do! Here I am in dire straits, and see how good and how great God is!

–Dr. Charles Stanley, Advancing through Adversity, 78.

Can you also see the beauty of joy on the face of such a witness? How do we grow a strong trust like that?

Beauty-in-Suffering Grows with Intimacy

There’s no shortcut to intimacy and trust. We cannot trust whom we do not know.

–Melissa Kruger and Kristen Wetherell, Twelve Faithful Women, 2020.

The formula for growing intimacy with God is quite simple: Prayer + the Word + Time [1].

The closer we walk with God, the less room there is for any other thing to come between us, including trouble, hardship, or pain. In addition, we begin to reflect the glory of his beautiful character [2]!

Beauty-in-Suffering Impacts Others

The question is, will the impact be characterized by the ugliness of complaining, negativity, and self-pity? Or will it be the beauty of vibrant faith, contagious joy, and a settled peace?

Meet Anik, a young African father who was suffering through illness and finding it difficult to provide for his family. Nearby another household also dealt with hardship, and yet their quick smiles and frequent laughter indicated a happiness Anik craved.

He could hear them worship God and pray. They even prayed for him! Anik finally asked them about this God they praised. They told him about Christ, and the family shared their Bible with him.

Upon reading the stories about Jesus, Anik prayed to receive him into his life. So did his family, and they found their hearts transformed.

Their circumstances didn’t change immediately, but they did [3].

May the beauty-in-suffering illustrated by the Pietá and reflected in those like Anik’s neighbor, be evidenced in us also.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

We praise you, O God, for gifting us with extra measures of your peace and presence—even joy—when difficulty invades our lives. Only you can bring beauty out of suffering! Help us to lean upon you in ever-deepening faith, to carry us through until the final day of triumph. 

(Psalm 34:18; Philippians 4:5-7; Romans 5:3-5;

2 Corinthians 2:14)

[1] Joanna Weaver, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, 77.

[2] 2 Corinthians 3:18

[3] www.wycliffe.org/blog/posts/the-light-of-hope-scripture-passages-for-hard-times-.

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Even at a Parade

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , on July 17, 2025| 49 Comments »

Behind our home stand many large trees that border a small creek bed. As the sun sets, fireflies rise from the grass and undergrowth, slowly soaring higher and higher until the trees appear decorated for Christmas.

Hundreds of glimmering lights sparkle against the deep dark of night.

God’s creative handiwork, right in our own backyard.

*     *     *     *     *

On the Fourth of July our family attended the local Independence Day parade. While waiting for the festivities to begin, a young boy seated next to us chatted with me every now and then.

One time he commented, “Wow! There’s not even one cloud in the sk___ . . . Wait a minute. There’s a little one over there.”

We both studied the wisp of vapor for a moment. “It’s disappearing already,” he added.

Together we witnessed the last visible curl evaporate away.   My attention returned to people-watching.

Moments later the boy suddenly cried out, “There it is again!”

Sure enough, the water droplets had regathered themselves.

It was then I noticed a phenomenon that I’d missed before. In the area of that little cloud was a faint veil of fog, barely visible. Millions, perhaps billions of water droplets were suspended there all along.

The boy and I only noticed them when they drew together in a dense gathering.

Watching the cloud reform, the boy exclaimed, “Cool!”  Cool indeed.

God’s ingenious engineering of the elements, right above the street.

*     *   *     *     *

After dinner recently Steve said, “I’ll do the dishes.”

Now lots of husbands probably do the dishes now and then. But do they also do the cooking? My Steve does! He actually enjoys it, and almost always takes care of the cleanup, too. (Sorry, he’s not for sale.)

God’s love expressed to me through my caring husband, right there in our kitchen.

*     *     *     *     *

Our toddler granddaughter loves the swings at the park. “Weeee!” she squeals with each push.  For her it’s a new, exciting delight.

Actually, Elena’s days are filled with new discoveries: the ping-sound of a metal post when struck with a stick, the mystery of bubbles that disappear with a touch, the slow, spiral dance of a dropped feather.

Her eyes sparkle; her smiles and laughter indicate intense pleasure.

God’s gift of joy on display right in our own family.

*     *     *     *     *

And paying attention to all of these manifestations makes me more aware of his presence.

And awareness of his presence changes my heart.

Stress gives way to peace, tedium gives way to joy, striving gives way to contentment, fear gives way to consolation.

And surely God must smile when we live aware and celebrate his gracious provision.

*     *     *     *     *

I praise you, Father, for reminding me of your active, loving presence throughout each day, everywhere I go — even at a parade.  Thank you for ministering to my needs, assuaging my fears, comforting my hurts, and giving me joy.  What a gracious God you are!

Image credits: http://www.wikimediacommons.org (Sushanth2212); www. wikimediacommons.org (GerritR); http://www.flickr.com (Ryan Lee); Nancy Ruegg.

(I do apologize for reblogging again, this time from July 17, 2014. We’ve had one commitment, event, or appointment, one after another for the last week.)

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Making the Most of Our Minutes

Posted in Blessings, Decision-Making, Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, God's Presence, Heroes of the Faith, Holiness, Intimacy with God, Jesus, Meditation, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on July 10, 2025| 12 Comments »

Frank Laubach (1884-1970): missionary to the Philippines, college dean, author, and developer of a highly-successful literacy program.

These are a few of the accomplishments of the devout Christian hero we met in last week’s post, “Toward Undiscovered Continents.”

His fifty-six books included those about the Philippines and teaching literacy, but also about growing into an intimate relationship with God, something he’d greatly desired, like King David centuries before:

In a letter dated March 23, 1930, Frank wrote, “Can I bring God back in my mind-flow every few seconds so that God shall always be in my mind [1]?”

He decided to make the rest of his life an experiment, and for the next forty years Frank disciplined himself to become more aware and more submissive to his heavenly Father—moment by moment.

As the habit grew, Frank wrote it was “the most amazing thing I ever ran across.” In another letter he tried to describe the sheer joy he experienced one afternoon:

“God was so close and so amazingly lovely that I felt like melting all over with a strange and blissful contentment [2].”

Surely all of us desire such loveliness and contentment in God’s presence.

But how did Frank manage to accomplish such a goal? And how might we hope to achieve that kind of intimacy with God?

First, we have to be patient with ourselves. Seeking to experience God throughout the day takes time and practice. About seven weeks into his experiment, Frank admitted:

“When for a half hour or so He slips out of mind—as He does many times a day, I feel as though I had deserted Him, as though I had lost something very precious in my life [3].”

So how did Frank become more consistent in his focus?   

 Here are a few of his practical suggestions (The comments in brackets are my own):

  • In the chinks of time between things, pray: “Lord, think your thoughts in my mind. What is on Your mind for me to do now?”
  • Instead of talking to your “inner self,” talk to Jesus. Imagine Him with you.
  • Pursue a two-way conversation in prayer. Ask, “God, what are You saying to me?” Let your imagination consider what you suppose He might answer. [It’s worthwhile to record these responses in a journal. Do keep in mind, God will never contradict what he’s already said in scripture.]

Can you imagine him saying, “I have been waiting for this moment all your life, waiting until you opened the channel so that I could speak. I have wonderful plans for you which cannot be realized until you listen as you are listening now [4].”

  • Make a daily habit to prayerfully read about the life of Jesus, from the Bible-books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Try different translations to keep the experience fresh.

[Or, listen to scripture being read to you. Here’s an APP to try: https://www.bible.com/audio-bible/111/MAT.1.NIV .]  

Frank urges, “Walk with Jesus through Galilee by walking with Him through the pages of His earthly history [5].”

  • Hum a favorite prayer-hymn or chorus to yourself. [One possibility: “Take My Life and Let It Be,” with its upbeat tune.]
  • We invite Christ to share—all day long–in everything we do, say, or think. We don’t need to stop our work, but “we try to call Him to mind at least one second of each minute [6].” [How’s that for a lofty but highly worthy goal?]

The websites listed below offer more of Frank’s suggestions.

With him we can attest: “Now that I have discovered Him I find that it is a continuous discovery. Every day is rich with new aspects of Him and His working [7].”

Doesn’t that sound delightful? Let’s make the most of our minutes, availing ourselves of that “melt-all-over, blissful contentment” in the presence of God that Frank Laubach wrote about.

https://www.azquotes.com/quote/803882

 

[1] https://renovare.org/articles/living-each-moment-with-a-sense-of-gods-presence-frank-laubach.

[2] Quoted by Nayswami Nakin at https://www.ananda.org/blog/laubach-christian-literacy-god/ .

[3] Letters of a Modern Mystic, quoted by Richard J. Foster and James Bryan Smith, www.renovare.org.   

[4] These first three suggestions come from Laubach’s book, Prayer: The Mightiest Force in All the World, highlighted by Bill Gaultiere, at https://www.soulshepherding.org/christ-answer-inspiration-frank-laubach/.

[5] From The Game with Minutes, by Frank Laubach, quoted by Dr. Tom Sweeney at  https://the-magpie.org/2017/02/28/laubach-on-experiencing-god-every-minute/.

[6] Dr. Tom Sweeney, https://sobrief.com/books/letters-by-a-modern-mystic.

[7] Dr. Tom Sweeney.

Image credits: http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pexels.com (Mk7Bober); http://www.heartlight.org; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.azquotes.com.

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On the Precipice of God’s Glory

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , , , , on June 26, 2025| 29 Comments »

Which would you say is the most common human weakness?

  • A. Living unaware?
  • B. Greed?
  • C. Pride?
  • D. Selfishness?

According to pastor and author, Lou Guntzelman, the answer is A.*

Even twenty years ago when Guntzelman wrote his book, he saw many people living superficially, busily, and distractedly –moving too fast and focusing too much on insignificant matters.

Maybe those descriptors don’t apply to you. But I have been guilty on all counts. And those of us who tend to fly through our days risk missing many delights of life.

For example, we don’t see the unique qualities of the people around us.

We don’t hear the laughter of our children.

We don’t even think to take in deep gulps of rain-scented air, just for the pleasure of breathing.

We don’t taste and see God’s goodness in the world.

Blackwater Falls, WV

We don’t sense His presence.

But!

When we learn to engage the mind and especially the spirit in the moment at hand, we discover the splendor of God’s glory tucked into surprising places–right in front of us.

The moment one gives close attention to anything,

even a blade of grass,

it becomes a mysterious, awesome,

indescribably magnificent world in itself.

–Henry Miller

The obvious question is: how do we reprogram ourselves to live more aware?

Perhaps the first step is to condition our minds through quiet reflection.

In a place of solitude, we avail ourselves of his presence and redirect our attention from the day’s cares to God’s truth.

Sometimes that might include:

  • Studying and contemplating scripture, open to a change of heart or a change of direction
  • Naming God’s attributes and celebrating how he’s demonstrated those attributes in our lives
  • Keeping a gratitude journal, to help us tune in to the positive  (It’s a transformative habit!)
  • Reading books by thought-provoking Christian authors, then mentally processing their tenets, and seeking ways of application to life when appropriate

The state of our minds affects our perception of everything.

Second, we condition our focus.

We determine to:

Backyard beauties at our house, on display the end of April

  • Appreciate more fully the natural wonders around us—even in the backyard, on the way to work, while running errands.
  • Honor each person we meet with eye contact, smiles, and a kind word.
  • Sift out the immaterial and apply ourselves to the important.
  • Refuse pointless worry and find priceless treasure in scriptural reassurance and God’s inimitable peace.
  • Pursue wholeness—the state of being perfectly well in body, soul (mind, will, and emotions) and spirit.  That happens as we submit more and more to God’s perfect ways (Psalm 119:1-2).

And what will be the result?

Each day there will be the anticipation of discovery and delight, joyful praise and expectant hope.

We’ll find ourselves speaking to God more and more often, and hearing his whispers in our hearts. We’ll experience greater satisfaction in life as we train our focus on him and savor his endless blessings.

Bottom line: We will live on the threshold of heaven.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Oh, this is where I want to live, Father—on the precipice of your glory. Though responsibilities must be taken care of, I can still take note and inwardly soak in all the beauty, blessings, discoveries, and lessons that you bring to my attention. Help me to live aware!

*Lou Guntzelman, So Heart and Mind Can Fill, St. Mary’s Press, 1998.

Image credits:  

http://www.publicdomainpictures.net; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; wwwpxhere.com; http://www.pixabay.com (2); http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.pxhere.com (2); http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.pixnio.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.quotefancy.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.flickr.com.

(This post reblogged from June 21, 2018 while we enjoy a visit from out-of-town family.)

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Make It a Good Day!

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Presence, God's Provision, Godly Character, Joy, Obedience, Service, Uncategorized, tagged , , , on May 29, 2025| 30 Comments »

Brady Miller, a young and single first-year employee at Reed Investments, smiled as he read the email from his boss Justin. The memo reminded him of the personal day he hadn’t used yet.

Stipulations required he not add the day to vacation time or a weekend, but otherwise, any mid-week day was allowed, pending approval from Justin.

Brady immediately began planning for his Perfect Day the next Thursday: wearing sweats all day, binge-watching The Mandalorian, eating toaster-waffles for breakfast, broccoli cheddar soup and a ham on rye for lunch, nachos for snacking, and a pepperoni pizza for dinner—oh, and a big bowl of mint chocolate chip ice cream for dessert.

He’d also enjoy the solitude—no one to play host for, no one talking during the episodes, and no one to clean up after. Absolute bliss.

But late the next Thursday evening, Brady noticed he felt rather blah, maybe even a bit depressed and de-energized. Wasn’t his Perfect Day supposed to make him happy and content? What happened?

Brady wasn’t aware that researchers have actually studied what contributes to a good day. And all the indulgences he’d allowed himself did not make the list.

Here’s what did:

  • Eat nourishing food
  • Exercise 150 minutes per week
  • Include meaningful activity that also brings pleasure
  • Spend time with family and/or friends
  • Practice mindfulness
  • Limit recreational screen time
  • Show kindness toward others
  • Encourage others
  • Express gratitude

Brady incorporated none of these activities into his day off. No wonder satisfaction alluded him.

Perhaps you also noticed: all these elements contributing to a good day are included in biblical instruction. God wants us to enjoy good days!

For example, scripture directs us to:

Take proper care of our bodies which are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

You wouldn’t want anyone trashing your home;

God doesn’t want anyone trashing his.

–Max Lucado Grace for the Moment, 252

Get a good night’s sleep (Psalm 127:2).

Choose meaningful activities, especially those that benefit others. Blessing for the giver is built in (Acts 20:35c).

Begin where you are and love those around you and in front of you,

and God will give you joy on the mission with him.

–Britt Mooney, We Were Reborn for This, 180.

Spend time with family and/or friends, providing uplift, encouragement, and support (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).

For me, “the greatest by far is the possession” of family who double as friends.

Practice mindfulness, taking note of what is excellent and praiseworthy, protecting against discouragement and anxiety (Philippians 4:8).

Always, everywhere God is present,

and always He seeks to discover Himself to each one.

–A. W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God, 60.

What better way to occupy the mind than to look for evidence of God around us?

Be compassionate, kind, and encouraging (Colossians 3:12; Ephesians 4:29).

And, I would add, that touch includes the one demonstrating kindness.

Express gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

It is not the happy person who is thankful

but the thankful person who is happy.

–Unknown

It makes me smile to see secular research backing up what scripture has taught all along.

However, one important activity for a good day is not mentioned in the research:  quiet time with God— studying his Word and conversing with him in prayer (Psalm 119:15-16).

Then again, to do so does incorporate four of the elements researchers identified: meaningful activity that also brings pleasure, time with a Friend, mindfulness, and gratitude.

Is it possible to accomplish all of these activities every day? YES! Some might take only a moment: a kind deed or a word of gratitude. Some can be combined, as illustrated above.

You can start small and choose just one activity to start reducing the blahs and increasing the good. Go ahead—choose one.

Now, let’s get out there and MAKE IT A GOOD DAY!

Sources:

Image credits: http://www.frreerangestock.com (Matt Moloney); http://www.stockcake.com; http://www.freerangestock.com (FOCA Stock); http://www.canva.com (4); http://www.flickr.com.

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