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Archive for the ‘Blessings’ Category

Surprise in the Fruit Bowl

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Excellence, God, Godly Character, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on March 14, 2024| 50 Comments »

Years ago I served as a short-term missionary in Ecuador. One of my first meals there included a fruit I’d eaten many times back home in Illinois, although more often from a can than the produce section.

But that day the golden wedges provided an uber-delightful surprise: more flavor, more sweetness, and less acidity than any I’d enjoyed in the States. It was as if I was eating a different fruit.

That’s because Ecuador grows some of the world’s best pineapple. Their location on the equator and the volcanic soil of the Andes Mountains provides perfect growing conditions. I gained new appreciation for what pineapple could be.

There’s another kind of fruit that many of us are familiar with, but it’s not the kind we eat. It’s the fruit of the Spirit, listed in Galatians 5:22-23. Many of you can probably recite its nine aspects:

What follows are brief thoughts on each. I pray we gain new appreciation for what this fruit can be—perhaps even uncover a surprise or two.

LOVE

If you were asked, what’s a powerful, practical way to express love for others, what would you say? Theologian John Calvin suggested intercession [1]. To pray for a person is to love that person.

Who might you love with a prayer today?

JOY

Scripture tells us to “rejoice always” [2], but that’s hard to do when problems and pain come our way.

Selwyn Hughes offers this perspective: Even though our difficulties may have begun with the devil, by the time they get to us and through us, they will have a divine purpose running through them [3].

Now that we can joyfully celebrate.

PEACE

“The truly thankful person is a truly peaceful person,” asserts Lysa TerKuerst [4]. And Isaiah 26:3 suggests why:

What better way to fix our thoughts than with thanksgiving? And as we affirm God’s blessings, peace will warm our hearts.

PATIENCE

Patience blossoms best in the soil of God’s promises, as we wait for him to intervene. His promises cover every circumstance; our part is to know them and believe, then patiently anticipate their fulfillment.

Are you clinging to a scripture-promise today? Turn it into a prayer of faith, hope, and patience [5].

KINDNESS

We can grow this attribute with one action: meditate on God’s kindness to us [6]. Meditation fosters appreciation; appreciation fosters emulation, and soon we find God’s kindness becoming more a part of who we are.

GOODNESS

This trait often seems out of reach. But instead of trying harder to be good, author Philip Yancey recommends: simply love God. “A person who truly loves God will be inclined to please God” [7].

Also worth remembering, the inclination to always please self results in dissatisfaction and restlessness [8].

FAITHFULNESS

Every year thousands gather to see Old Faithful, even though it’s not the tallest geyser in the world. Why is it so popular? Dependability. You can count on Old Faithful.

What might dependability look like for you today?

GENTLENESS

A list of traits of successful people rarely includes gentleness. Yet this attribute contributes much to prosperity in life. That’s because: “[Gentleness] creates in us a capacity for the closest possible intimacy with God” [9].

It’s the gentle-spirited souls who lean in toward God with yielding hearts to rest in his sovereignty. And then, think of it: God, with all his glorious attributes, comes close (James 4:8).

SELF-CONTROL

“A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls”[10]–vulnerable to all sorts of problems.

Better to take the wise course, prayerfully availing ourselves of the Holy Spirit’s help, to develop those habits we know will bring benefit and usefulness.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

And now, our fruit bowl is full! Did you find any surprises?

I pray this week, you enjoy one or more aspects of this familiar fruit–with fresh appreciation!

 

[1] https://gracequotes.org/topic/love-others_for/

[2] 1 Thessalonians 5:16

[3] Every Day Light, 124.

[4] Embraced, 256.

[5] A few favorite scripture-promises include: Psalm 32:8; Isaiah 41:10, 31; Romans 8:28; James 1:5.  

[6] From a sermon our pastor preached last spring.

[7] Grace Notes, 325.

[8] Ecclesiastes 2:10-26

[9] Albert M. Wells, Jr., Inspiring Quotations Contemporary & Classical, 91.

[10] Proverbs 25:28 NLT

Art & photo credits: http://www.needpix.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pickpic.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.negativespace.com; http://www.deviantart.com (vulcanknight).

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Antidotes for What Ails You

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Power, God's Provision, Perseverance, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , on March 7, 2024| 29 Comments »

We’ve all had days when discouragement, inadequacy, hurt, or fear want to plague our spirits. And we find our own weak efforts do little to ease the distress.

BUT!

Praise God he provides the antidote for every malady of the soul.

What follows is a list of ways he accomplishes that healing and binding [1]. I pray these declarations may be just the antidote to strengthen your inner being:

When we worry; he reassures.

When I worried about many things,

your assuring words soothed my soul.

—Psalm 94:19 GWT

When we stress, he soothes.

“Would you drown your cares? Then go, plunge yourself in the Godhead’s deepest sea; be lost in His immensity; and you shall come forth as from a couch of rest, refreshed and invigorated.

“I know nothing which can so comfort the soul; so calm the swelling billows of sorrow and grief; so speak peace to the winds of trial, as a devout musing upon the subject of the Godhead.”

—Charles Spurgeon

When we stagger; he steadies.

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you;

he will never let the righteous be shaken.

—Psalm 55:22 NIV

When we struggle; he strengthens.

“With the goodness of God to desire our highest welfare, the wisdom of God to plan it, and the power of God to achieve it, what do we lack?” — A. W. Tozer [2]   

When we falter; he lifts up.

The Lord upholds all who fall

and lifts up all who are bowed down.

—Psalm 145:14

When we fail; he forgives.

“With [God], each day—each moment—is a clean slate” — Aliza Latta [3].  

When we forget; he reminds.

For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand;

it is I who say to you,

“Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”

—Isaiah 41:13 ESV

When we doubt; he affirms.

Dismantle doubts with declarations of truth from God’s Word, truths that remind us: his character is flawless, his actions are righteous, his power is unlimited, his love is unfailing, his faithfulness unending [4].

When we regret; he forgets.

I will forgive their sins and will

no longer remember their wrongs.”

—Hebrews 8:12 GNT

When we hunger; he fills.

Blessed [joyful, nourished by God’s goodness]

are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness

[those who actively seek right standing with God],

for they will be [completely] satisfied.

—Matthew 5:6 AMP

When we’re bent; he repairs.

“God is mercifully shaping our lives into what is useful and beautiful” — Eugene Peterson [5].

When we desire wrongly; he directs rightly.

For it is God who is working in you,

enabling you both to desire

and to work out his good purpose.

—Philippians 2:13 HCSB

When we’re uncertain; he guides.

“Happy are those who place their hands in that of the Great Guide. He will bring them all the way and when he has brought them home to glory and has opened their eyes to see the way by which he has led them, what a song of gratitude will they sing unto God! Lord, lead your poor blind child this day, for I know not my way” — Charles Spurgeon [6].

When we’re discouraged; he inspires

He would have us know: “Nothing under My control can ever be out of control. Everything you need I know about in every detail. Remember, I am able to supply, to guide, to start, to stop, to sustain, to change, to correct in My time and for My purposes” [7] .

Again and again he provides the antidote for every need of our souls.

Our part is simply to receive.

[1]  “Binding” in Psalm 147:3 intimates holding together while an injury heals. God often allows time in combination with his antidotes to accomplish healing, fostering inner strength and perseverance in the process (James 1:2-4).

[2] Knowledge of the Holy, 70.

[3] www.incourage.com, 1-19-19

[4] Exodus 32:4; Psalm 145:17; Job 36:22-23; Psalm 117:1-2; 100:5

[5] Run with the Horses, 79.

[6] Faith’s Checkbook, March 23.

[7] Based on statements made by Chuck Swindoll in Intimacy with the Almighty, 73.

Photo credits: http://www.negativespace.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.canva.com.

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All These Good Things

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Dreams, Encouragement, God's Goodness, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on February 22, 2024| 36 Comments »

Sometime during my teens, workers constructed a new house down the street and around the corner—a white Colonial with pillars—something like this:

I dreamed of living there in its spacious rooms, decorated in classic style, similar to the homes in House Beautiful magazine:

Of course, my dreams included a pool . . .

. . . and my favorite car parked out front, just for me to drive—a baby blue Mustang convertible:

Then I’d be deliriously happy.

And according to Psalm 84:11, those good things should have been mine, right?

After all, I was a pretty good kid—never got in serious trouble.

But now, all these decades later, I know: 1) Any sin at all is enough to separate me from all-righteous God (Isaiah 59:2). And 2) . . .

If it has a price tag, it won’t bring lasting satisfaction.

Chuck Swindoll

Now I realize there’s nothing more I could wish for in this world than what God desires to give me*–gifts that are the result of his ever-perfect goodness, never-ending grace, and breath-taking glory, gifts that are good for me.

Just for fun I challenged myself to list such gifts from A to Z, to celebrate the breadth of his generosity to his children.

I pray you’ll be celebrating too as you peruse the following.

Out of his abundant love, God has graced us with:

Access into his presence any time (Ephesians 2:18)

Bible truth that teaches, guides, and inspires (Psalm 119:24)

Comfort in pain and sorrow (Matthew 5:4)

Delights and blessings (Psalm 103:5)

Enablement to endure life’s downturns (Philippians 4:13), remembering that:

His Forgetfulness of our confessed sins (Hebrews 8:12)

His Grace to redeem us from death (Ephesians 1:7-8)

(The pleasure of) Humor, because the cheerful heart has a continual feast (Proverbs 15:15b)

Immortality with God in heaven (2 Timothy 1:10)

Death is not a period but a comma in the story of life.

Amos Traver

(His) Jealousy that compels him to preserve his relationship with his people (Exodus 20:5)

Kingdom-living and all its benefits (Luke 12:32)

Loving-kindness, lavished upon us (1 John 3:1; Psalm 36:7-9)

Miracles too numerous to count (Job 5:9)

Nature that brims with beauty and wonder (Psalm 104)

Overflow of his benevolence in our lives (Psalm 119:65 NLT)

Promises that never fail (Psalm 145:13b)

Quietness of spirit that offers peace and contentment (Psalm 23:1-2)

Relationships characterized by unity, support, and love (Ephesians 2:17-22)

(The gift of) Song, enlivening our hearts with strength, joy, and encouragement (Psalm 98:4-6)

Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

Berthold Auerbach

Truth found in Jesus, setting us free from the impossible burden of earning our way to heaven (John 14:6; 8:32)

Uplift to those who are discouraged, guilt-ridden, and/or grieving (Psalm 145:3-13)

Victory over death, given to us through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57)

Wonders that showcase his power, wisdom, goodness, and more (Psalm 145:3-13)

(The) X-cellence of his character, compelling him to always do the right thing at the right time (Psalm 96:1-6)

(The) Yoke of Jesus, symbolic of his help as we follow his lead (Matthew 11:28-30)

Zion, the eternal city of perfection prepared for his redeemed (Isaiah 35:10)

And now I can affirm more strongly than ever:

God’s gifts put man’s best dreams to shame.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Including the best dreams of foolish teenage girls.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for showcasing in our lives your marvelous attributes and showering us with so many wondrous gifts! May the eyes of my heart turn away from the baubles of this world and revel instead in the beauty of your character and kingdom—a kingdom where you preside in all your perfections and provide for us all good things. Hallelujah!

*based on a statement by Joni Eareckson Tada, A Quiet Place in a Crazy World, 127

Photo credits: http://www.flickr.com (2); http://www.pexels.com (Dylan Leagh); http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.flickr.com (Kerry Ann Dame); http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net (Sheila Brown); http://www.pxhere.com.

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Grace Like Rain

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Grace, Seeking God, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , on February 8, 2024| 39 Comments »

No doubt you’ve seen a movie or two with at least one desert scene, in which the protagonists must withstand brutal heat and scarcity of water. (Did Lawrence of Arabia, Flight of the Phoenix, or The Way Back come to mind?)

Some of us have even visited a desert—perhaps the Great Basin or the Mojave here in America, the Sahara in Africa, or the Negev in Israel:

Note the limestone and chalk landforms of the Negev—barren rocky cliffs and ravines, desolate summits and valleys, and of course, sand.

As is true of all deserts, the Negev is arid and stark—most of the year. But then come the months of February and March—the rainy season—and oh, what a transformation takes place.

The bleakness turns to an exuberance of vibrant flowers, including:

Arabian Primrose

Desert Tulip

Desert Hollyhock

Negev Iris

Water bestows the miracle of life, facilitating photosynthesis and transporting nutrients from the soil.

And as water brings life to the desert, so God’s grace brings the miracle of life to our hearts.

His lavish grace falls like rain [1]; and oh, what a transformation takes place!

Consider the following aspects of renewal:

1. God’s grace cleanses the dusty grime of sin from our souls (Psalm 51:2).

God knows what we are made of, remembering that we are dust. But out of his grace-filled forgiveness he washes away all wrongdoing, and lovingly works to make us more than we are [2].

2. God’s grace like rain provides the miracle of eternal life (Revelation 21:6).

Jesus makes it possible for us to move from living death to deathless life [3].

3. God’s grace nourishes and invigorates our spirits (John 7:38).

He uses many means to soak his truth into the depths of our hearts, providing refreshment, renewal, and encouragement. One primary example: the Bible.

When we disregard God’s Word, we expose ourselves to aridness of spirit.

4. God’s grace brings fruitful productivity to our lives (Isaiah 58:11).

A number of plants in the Negev provide food, including the seeds of the canarian aizoon, the stems and leaves of the carrechtera, the roots of the desert broomrape, and the flowers of the coarse rocket.

Similarly, the Spirit of God nurtures fruit within us–pleasing attributes like love, kindness, goodness, and more (Galatians 5:22-23). As we grow in our relationship with him, so do these attractive fruit.

5. God’s grace-like-rain showers us with blessing (Isaiah 41:17-18).

Flowers of joy, peace, hope, and more can flourish in the most desolate of places, when we allow God to infuse us with his all-sufficient presence.

6. God’s grace gives us refreshment and pleasure (Jeremiah 31:25; Isaiah 44:3).

He will do us good, real good, lasting good,

only good, every good.

With this promise in our hearts,

we need not fear.

–Charles Spurgeon [4]

7. God’s grace creates radiant beauty in a life that was once a wasteland (Psalm 34:5).

That radiant beauty is characterized by smiles of joy, an attitude of contentment, a voice of wisdom and encouragement, an outlook of faith, and a heart of love.

Praise God, his love flows freely to the unlovely [5], developing such beauty!

His grace-like-rain washes over us, bestowing all these aspects of the abundant life to those who are thirsty.

Will you come?

[1] Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 259.

[2] Psalm 103:14; Ruth Graham, Blessings for a Mother’s Day, 101.

[3] Jack Odell, from Quote/Unquote, compiled by Lloyd Cory,  284.

[4] Charles Spurgeon, Faith’s Checkbook, May 28.

[5] A. W. Tozer

Art & photo credits: www.commons.wikipedia.org; http://www.imaggeo.egu.eu; http://www.identify.plantnet.org; http://www.commons.wikipedia.org (3); http://www.stocksnap.io; http://www.commonswikipedia.org; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.rawpixel.com.

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Hooray! / Oh Dear!

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Excellence, God's Faithfulness, God's Promises, Joy, Obedience, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , , , , on February 1, 2024| 51 Comments »

When our daughter Heather was a child, she would sometimes entertain herself and her little brother Jeremy with stories she’d create.

These weren’t ordinary stories, however. Each part of the story was to be followed by a response, such as HOORAY or OH DEAR. Jeremy would supply those. Heather told her story so the responses alternated.

For example:

One day Mrs. Brown said to her children, “Let’s go on a picnic!” (HOORAY!)

But while they were getting ready it started to rain. (OH DEAR!)

Mrs. Brown said, “Don’t worry, we’ll have a picnic in the family room!” (HOORAY!)

Billy Brown counted out apples for everyone. “Uh-oh!” he said. “We don’t have enough apples!” (OH DEAR!)

You get the idea.

Some of us have read Bible promises with the same HOORAY/OH DEAR responses. (Although we’d probably exchange HOORAY for HALLELUJAH!)

Take Deuteronomy 7:9, for example. We read, “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations . . .” And our response might be HALLELUJAH!

Then we read the second part: “. . . of those who love him and keep his commandments” (emphasis added). (OH DEAR.)

Here are two more examples:

“You will eat the good things of the land . . .” (HALLELUJAH!) “. . . if you are willing and obedient”–Isaiah 1:19. (OH DEAR.)

Or this assurance from Jesus: “You are my friends . . . ,” (HALLELUJAH!) “. . . if you do what I command”–John 15:14. (OH DEAR).

I can’t speak for you but often I’m glad to claim God’s promises, then struggle to comply with the prerequisite: God’s directives—even though I know that sinful, self-centered behaviors can get me into trouble and won’t produce long-term contentment.     

I so easily forget:

What blessing might Jesus have had in mind when he made that promise? Actually, the Bible lists a number of blessings tied to obedience. Here’s a starter-list of ten:

1. God’s watchful care. “The eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him” (Psalm 33:18).

2. Prosperity of soul. “Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord” (Proverbs 16:20).

3. Joy of heart. “The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart” (Psalm 19:8).

Jesus isn’t trying to make your life miserable by calling you to obey his word. He wants you to abide in his love and have fullness of joy! God doesn’t give us his word to keep us from life. He gives us his word so we can walk in abundance of life.

Melissa Kruger, Growing Together, 50

4. Freedom from shame. “Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees! Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands” (Psalm 119:5-6).

5. Freedom from fear. “Surely the righteous will never be shaken . . . They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord” (Psalm 112:6a, 8a).

6. Peace of mind. “Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (Psalm 119:165).

When we obey with a right heart from a place of love, we experience a joy and peace we’d never know otherwise.

Denise Hughes, Deeper Waters, 149.

7. Blessing upon our grandchildren. “The Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children—with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts” (Psalm 103:17-18).

8. Wisdom. “The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7b).

 9. Joy of knowing Jesus intimately. “The one who has My commands and keeps them is the one who loves Me. . . I also will love him and will reveal Myself to him” (John 14:21 HCSB).

If I obey Jesus Christ in the seemingly random circumstances of life, they become pinholes through which I see the face of God.

Oswald Chambers

10. Everything we need and then some. “Those who obey him have all they need . . . Those who obey the Lord lack nothing good” (Psalm 34:9 GNT).

When we yield in obedience to God’s voice he yields a harvest greater than we can imagine.

Denise Hughes, Deeper Waters, 149

We know it’s true: disobedience can lead to disaster. (OH DEAR!)

But even the short list of blessings listed above proves:

Obedience leads to abundance.

(HALLELUJAH–and thank you, Lord!)

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

O God, I praise you for your promises that assure me: when I follow your ways, all will be well. Give me understanding so I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart–moment by moment. May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees, so I won’t be put to shame!

Jeremiah 7:23; Psalm 119:34, 80

Photo credits: Steve Ruegg; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.freerangestock.com (Chad Madden); http://www.canva.com (2).

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S-l-o-w Looking

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Joy, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , on January 18, 2024| 41 Comments »

Most visitors to an art museum spend fifteen to thirty seconds looking at a painting, but art enthusiasts insist that’s not near long enough to fully enjoy each work.

Take for example da Vinci’s world-famous Mona Lisa. You’ve seen photographs; some of you may have viewed the original at the Louvre. Besides the model’s haunting expression, what makes this painting stand out from others?

First, note da Vinci’s use of shadow to give contour to the face and clothing. As a result, daVinci achieved more realism than other painters of his time.

Second, enlarge the image above and study da Vinci’s masterful attention to detail—the intricate gathers of the bodice, the graceful tendrils of her hair, the next-to-nothing veil.

Third, focus on the background. Mona Lisa appears to be sitting in front of a window with a lovely view of mountains, trees, and a lake. Da Vinci used a technique called foreshortening to condense the wide scene onto his narrow canvas.

Fourth, note the hazy atmosphere, created as da Vinci blurred the edges of his almost undetectable brushstrokes.

Of course, additional features also contribute to Mona Lisa’s magnificence. Yet even this short list makes clear: there’s more to the Mona Lisa than most of us realize.

And to know more makes us appreciate more and enjoy more. But such results require close observation through slow looking.

The same principle applies to God. To know God more will allow us to enjoy and appreciate him more.

But how do we observe closely Someone who’s invisible?

We begin with evidence of the Unseen. One example, his presence and character traits revealed in the events of our lives:

  • Caring protection from harm on numerous occasions
  • Generous provision of countless necessities, gifts, and blessings
  • Perfect wisdom, as certain desires of our hearts haven’t come true, recognized in hindsight
  • Unfailing faithfulness to see us through disappointment, difficulty, and uncertainty
  • Gracious goodness in every joyful moment, every delightful surprise. They all come from him.

Every day provides much evidence of his benevolent presence in the lives of each of his children. The more we look, the more we’ll find. And as each discovery is turned into praise our spirits fill with joy.

Another way to practice slow looking is to spend time in God’s presence, learning more about him through his Word.

It makes sense: “Delight in God cannot occur in an intellectual vacuum” [1].

“But I don’t know where to start!” someone might say.

The internet offers a variety of reading plans, and once a plan is in place, we apply the practice of slow looking as we read.

Writing the answers to such questions as these hones our observation skills:

  • What does this passage say about God and his character?
  • What truths does he teach?
  • What does God promise here that offers hope and encouragement?
  • Is there a prayer that applies to my life? (Write it out, perhaps in your own words, and personalize it.)
  • Has God included an example to follow or not follow [2]?

Slow looking through the act of writing also helps deepen our understanding and appreciation, expanding our capacity to enjoy God.

Another benefit? Taking joy in God and all his excellencies increases our strength to endure.

What moment of slow looking has led you to a recent discovery about God? Please share in the comment section below!

[1] Sam Storms, http://www.gracequotes.org

[2] Denise J. Hughes, Deeper Waters, 76.

Photo credits: http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.wikipedia.org; http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.heartlight.org; unknown.

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Choose Your Weapons!

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Praise, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on January 11, 2024| 49 Comments »

More than likely you’ve never seen the item pictured above. At first glance, you might think it’s a noisemaker used in primitive worship ceremonies. Others might say it looks like a musical instrument or the paddle for some game.

In actuality, it’s a model of an ancient Aztec weapon, a macuahuitl (MAC-wah-wick).

Strange-looking, isn’t it?  How could a wooden paddle be deadly enough for warfare? The key lies in those black protrusions on the sides. They were made from obsidian and filed razor sharp, capable of creating gaping slash wounds.

Here’s another strange-looking weapon. They remind me of the jacks some of us played with as children. These are called caltrops, with each spike measuring 2 1/2-to-3 inches.

Caltrops were designed so that, when thrown on the ground, one point would always land facing up.

Spread hundreds of these around your camp at night, and protect your soldiers while they rest. Or hide them in the area before the opposing army approaches, and cause crippling injury to many men and beasts as they charge.

But why all this talk about ancient weapons?

In the spiritual battles of life, we too have at least two strange-but-effective weapons at our disposal.

At first glance, they might appear useless against our adversary Satan. But these weapons have the power to defeat his minions of discouragement, disappointment, envy, frustration, and more.

The first weapon is gratitude. Yes, just uncomplicated gratitude.

For example, consider each of the negative emotions named above and how gratitude might incapacitate them:

  • When discouraged by lack of recognition at work, I can be thankful God sees.
  • When dissatisfied with my paycheck, I can be thankful that God will provide.
  • When disappointed by my child’s behavior, I can be thankful for the life-lessons taught through consequences that will benefit him in the future.
  • When envious over the lovely new house of an acquaintance, I can be thankful for our low mortgage, friendly neighbors, and the memories that have turned our house into a home.
  • When frustrated by a day of one-step-forward-and-two-steps-back, I can thank God for the strength and patience to see me through [1].

And as we wield our weapon of gratitude we’ll discover: “The truly thankful person is a truly peaceful person” [2].

The second strange-looking weapon against negativity is contentment.

But how do we manufacture deep-down satisfaction when life is full of difficulty and stress?

Luci Swindoll suggests: “Consider who you are and be satisfied with that. Consider what you have and be satisfied with that. Consider what God is doing and be satisfied with that” [3].

One way to employ contentment is to meditate on one of the praise psalms, like Psalm 103 or 145. While reading each verse, consider what it says about who you are, what you have, and what God is doing. Brandish your discoveries in the face of the enemy of your soul.

Even one simple statement can generate a whole journal of responses. For example:

In this moment, consider:

  • What goodness do you see, hear, taste, smell, or feel (externally and internally)? Praise God for these gifts [4]. 
  • What recent events have brought you joy? Praise God for engineering those events.
  • Who has blessed you lately? Praise God for these people.
  • What are you looking forward to? What hopes do you have for the future? Praise God that, because of his unfailing love and faithfulness, we always have hope (Lamentations 3:21-23).
  • What evidence of God’s thrilling presence have you noted? Praise him for revealing himself in so many different ways [5].

Perhaps a thick fog of trouble makes it difficult to see much goodness. British writer and scholar Alexander Smellie (1857-1923) would have us affirm:

“The Lord knows what is best for me, and my surroundings are determined by Him. Wherever He places me, He does so to strengthen my faith and power, and to draw me into closer communion with Himself. And even if confined to a dungeon, my soul will prosper.”

Those are fighting words of contentment we can take into battle, my friends!

[1] Job 28:24; Philippians 4:19; Hebrews 12:11; Habakkuk 3:17-19; Philippians 4:13

[2] Lysa Terkheurst, Embraced, 256.

[3] Joy Breaks, 79.

[4] A previous post Mindfulness PLUS may prompt your thoughts.

[5] Another post Heart-to-Heart offers examples.

Photo credits: http://www.worldhistoryencyclopedia.org; http://www.picryl.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.org; http://www.pxhere.com.

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One of God’s Masterpieces

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, Uncategorized, tagged , on December 28, 2023| 40 Comments »

Summer 2021

A happy family is

but an earlier heaven.

–George Bernard Shaw

We’ve been enjoying an earlier heaven this week as our three children, their spouses, and three grandchildren have gathered. (Steve’s sister and brother-in-law joined us for a day also.)

Because such occasions happen only now and then, I totally agree with Kathleen McGowan, who wrote:

The only thing sweeter than union

is reunion.

–Kathleen McGowan

Indeed, we treasure these times of togetherness, just as Wanda Hope Carter advocates:

Family and friends are hidden treasures.

Seek them and enjoy their riches.

–Wanda Hope Carter

A Spanish-American philosopher came close to describing why we find treasure in familial relationships:

The family is one of

nature’s masterpieces.

–George Santayana

I’d amend his statement to: “The family is one of God’s masterpieces.” After all, family is God’s idea, established at the beginning of time (Genesis 1:28).

Author Dillon Burroughs adds this viewpoint:

When we think of our family,

our spouse, parents, or children,

let us see them as a gift from God.

–Dillon Burroughs

Indeed! I am supremely grateful to my Heavenly Father for giving us the gift of a family that loves, supports, and takes joy in one another.

They make my soul blossom.

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy;

They are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.

–Marcel Proust

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Morning Star and King of Peace

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Presence, God's Salvation, Hope, Jesus, Joy, Meditation, Peace, Praise, Prayer, Salvation, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , on December 21, 2023| 28 Comments »

Three weeks ago we embarked upon a reflection of one of the most important songs in the history of the Christian faith: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”

The lyrics beautifully weave together the Old and New Testaments, telling the story of our Messiah, “the chosen One”—who would come to deliver his people from the consequences of their sins and establish his kingdom forever [1].

Each verse helps us place our eyes on Jesus’ return by remembering his first coming and then expressing hope and yearning for his second coming [2].

As noted before, the unknown lyricist (from the eighth or ninth century) carefully based each stanza on scripture. You’ll find references for further reflection listed at the end of this post.

One fact not mentioned thus far: the poet constructed the Latin lyrics in the form of a seven-sentence acrostic. When the first letter of the second word of each sentence (the names of Jesus) are put together, they spell SARCORE.

Read that word backwards, and the letters form two words of sublime hope: Ero cras, which means, “I will be present tomorrow.”

Whatever the future may hold, our Emmanuel will see us through. What a faith-stirring surprise the lyricist created for us [3]!

Now let’s turn our attention to the last two verses [4].

VERSE SIX

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that just as the morning star shines brightly against the darkness of night, you are the glorious Light of the world, shining brightly against the darkness of evil [5].

Just as the morning star glows steadily without a flicker, you shine in our lives with unwavering faithfulness and love [6].

Just as the morning star is a promise of coming day, your light provides hope and assurance that you will come again, to usher in The Day of the Lord, when a new heaven and a new earth will be established and righteousness will dwell [7].

Finally, just as the morning star can guide those at sea, your light guides our way through life. “In your light we see light”—the light of wisdom and discernment [8].

Such truths do bring us comfort, dispelling shadowy thoughts and flooding our spirits with the light of your perfection.

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for turning the darkness of sin, anxiety, discouragement, and more, into the light of your forgiveness, peace, hope, and joy [9]!

VERSE SEVEN  

I praise you, Lord Jesus, our King! How comforting to know that Someone all-wise and supremely gracious is the Ruler of all nations, all things [10].

Yet you are also a respecter of persons. You’ve bestowed upon us the gift of choice, the ability to determine our own way. And what have we accomplished? Our world is tainted by selfishness, pride, and contention [11].

How we need you, Lord Jesus! You are our only hope for our selfishness to be transformed into selflessness, pride into humility, and contention into unity.

So we boldly pray that every person on earth would come to faith in you [12].

Is that an unattainable dream? No, because you also are unwilling that anyone should perish. And all things are possible with you, our sovereign God and Savior [13].

After all, you:

  • Created all things everywhere
  • Maintain order in the entire universe
  • Control the course of human history
  • Depose kings and raise up others
  • Exist in all places at the same time [14]

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that nothing can prevent you from accomplishing your purpose [15].

And I praise you, Lord Jesus, that you’ve given us the wherewithal to experience harmony with one another, as we demonstrate love and compassion with humility [16].

May we be examples to the world, whetting their appetite for what we experience: the joy of living in the presence of the King of Peace [17]!

[1] Ace Collins, Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas,127; Isaiah 59:20; John 1:40-49; Romans 6:23; Revelation 11:15.

[2] https://www.danielim.com/2017/12/19/the-hidden-theology-and-history-of-o-come-o-come-emmanuel/

[3] https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/o-come-o-come-emmanuel

[4] From www.hymnary.org. (Lyrics vary depending on source.)

[5] Revelation 22:16

[6] Psalm 100:5; John 8:12

[7] 2 Peter 3:12-13

[8] Psalm 36:9b; Ecclesiastes 2:13-14

[9] Psalm 18:28

[10] Revelation 19:16

[11] Proverbs 5:23

[12] 1 Timothy 2:1-4

[13] 2 Peter 3:9; Mark 10:27b

[14] Colossians 1:16-17; Daniel 2:21; Jeremiah 23:23-24 GNT

[15] Psalm 115:3

[16] 1 Peter 3:8

[17] Psalm 16:11

Photo credits: http://www.flickr.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.stockvault.net; http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.stockvault.net; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pickpik.com.

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Let God Love on You Today

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Delight, God's Faithfulness, God's Grace, God's Love, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on November 16, 2023| 39 Comments »

Have you noticed that Bible verses about God’s love often include one particular adjective? In the New International Version, translators chose the word unfailing, as in:

I trust in your unfailing love.

Psalm 13:5 NIV

 Just in the psalms alone of that version you’ll find the phrase unfailing love used at least twenty-seven times.

Even more interesting, look up those same verses in other translations and you’ll find no less than eight different expressions in place of unfailing love, including:

  • Gracious love (International Standard Version)
  • Devoted love (Berean Standard Bible)
  • Steadfast love (English Standard Version)
  • Constant love (Good News Translation)
  • Merciful love (New American Standard Bible)
  • Lovingkindness (Amplified Bible)
  • Faithful love (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
  • Loyal love (New English Bible) [1]

Each one adds to the wonder of an all-powerful King of the universe who delights in you, who treasures you.

Yes, he does.

So for the next few moments, let God love on you. Deliciate in the lavish love of your Heavenly Father. [2]

He would have you know:

My love for you, precious child, is gracious—

I do not just put up with you!

My grace to you is affirmation of my acceptance

and pleasure in you. [3]

My love for you is devoted—

caring, affectionate, and attentive.

Remember, I am always thinking about you;

I am always supplying your needs. [4]

My love for you is steadfast.

“No matter what you might do,

you don’t have to worry about letting Me down,

because you were never holding Me up.” [5]

My love for you is constant.

I already loved you before time began.

Regardless of your performance,

My love for you will never diminish. [6]

My love for you, dear one, is merciful—

forgiving, sympathetic, and ungrudging.

I’ve given you a dazzling crown of mercy and compassion;

will you not wear it? [7]

My love for you is full of kindness.

Through My Son I made it possible

for you to enjoy a rich and satisfying life.

I continually bless you with good things. [8]

My love for you is faithful.

Time and again I have “accomplished wonders,

plans formed long ago—with perfect faithfulness”—

To bless you, provide for you, grow you. [9]

My love for you is loyal—

Unchanging, unwavering, and unfailing.

The more you depend on Me,

The more dependable you will find me to be. [10]

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

I can scarcely believe that you, the God of the universe, with all your perfections and glory, would love me—with all my imperfections and shame. Yet you eagerly bestow your gracious favor in wondrous ways. Help me to continually rest in your unfailing love, free from anxiety and fear. Amen.  

How is God loving on you today? Please share in the comment section below!

Art & photo credits: http://www.pickpik.com (2); http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com; http://www.picryl.com (artist: Richard Jakopic); http://www.pickpik.com (2).

[1] In many Old Testament scriptures, it’s the multi-dimensional Hebrew word hesed (used nearly 250 times) that translators are trying to express.

[2] Based on a statement of Margaret Feinberg, Wonderstruck, 25.

[3] John 1:12; Psalm 147:11

[4] Psalm 139:17-18; Philippians 4:19

[5] Lysa Terkeurst, Embraced, 130.

[6] Jeremiah 31:3; 1 John 4:8; Romans 8:38-39

[7] Psalm 103:2-4

[8] John 10:10 NLT; Psalm 107:9 GNT

[9] Isaiah 25:1; Matthew 7:11; Psalm 23:1; Philippians 1:6

[10] James 1:17; Psalm 145:13b; Cliff Richard, https://www.searchquotes.com/search/Dependable_God/

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