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Archive for the ‘Encouragement’ Category

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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Glory and Strength

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Strength, God-Given Abilities, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , on May 22, 2025| 30 Comments »

Late spring, 1961, President John F. Kennedy and his wife Jackie visited France. He’d only been in office four months, but already the world had embraced the refined and fashionable First Lady.

Upon arrival in Paris, people lined the streets and shouted, “Vive Jackie!”

And as the week unfolded, she impressed them further with her knowledge of French history and culture and her command of their language, polished to perfection at the Sorbonne during her junior year of college.

With dignitaries Jackie proved to be articulate, diplomatic, and a good listener. She especially charmed their president, Charles DeGaulle.

President Kennedy, on the other hand, received a cool reception from his French counterpart. The two had not seen eye-to-eye on certain policies. Jackie helped pave the way for diplomacy between them.

At a state dinner held in the Palace of Versailles, JFK famously introduced himself as “the man who accompanied Jacqueline Kennedy to Paris. And I have enjoyed it.”

The Hall of Mirrors where the dinner took place

Today, many still remember Jackie’s iconic style, her gentle demeanor, and stalwart courage following President Kennedy’s tragic death. But she will also “go down in history . . . for creating a dominant soft power dynamic in American politics” [1].

We also admire the way JFK humbly honored his wife at that state dinner. He appreciated her strengths that provided great benefit to him.

With this example in mind (although a weak one compared to what it illustrates!), we might understand more clearly what the psalmist meant when he wrote that God is the glory and strength of those who put their faith in him:

“Strength” we more readily understand. Many of us have experienced God’s power upholding us through crises and augmenting our efforts to serve him. But glory? What did the psalmist mean by “God is their glory?”

Perhaps the following comparisons will make the meaning clearer.

  • Even more than the great benefit Jackie provided to her husband, God provides abundant benefit to us.
  • As Jack gloried in Jackie, honoring her and acknowledging her worth, we glory in God.
  • As Jackie made the visit to France a glowing success, so God makes his people glow with success—that is, prosperity of soul, contentment of heart, and peace of mind.

JFK understood it was Jackie who exalted his position with DeGaulle and the French people. Similarly, we need to acknowledge that our sovereign God is the one who exalts us.

We don’t have to push and strive to prove ourselves; we can rest in all the glorious attributes of our Heavenly Father, lavished upon us for our benefit [2].

But like all analogies, this one involving the Kennedys breaks down, because no one is like our God.

Beyond the examples given above to explain how God is our glory, consider these truths:

God’s magnificence

God’s infinite power gives impetus to all his perfections in our lives. After all, what good would his perfect wisdom do without the wherewithal to execute it? His unfailing mercy without the ability to apply it? His infallible promises without the capability to keep them [3]?

God’s enabling work in our lives

God’s incomparable strength is instilled in us as we rely upon him. The result? We begin to display the glory of his attributes, including: patience in the midst of stress, kindness in response to rudeness, and self-control in the face of frustration [4].  

God’s power

God specializes in the impossible. Nothing is too great for his almighty power; nothing is too small for his love. Enter God’s realm where everything is possible [5]!

Of course there are many more facets to God’s glory. And this splendorous God of wonders is our strength—even if we don’t feel tough enough, talented enough, smart enough, or engaging enough for the path ahead—even if circumstances seem against us.

That last state of affairs must have been President Kennedy’s perception as he and Jackie left for France. Little did he know how Jackie would transform their visit.

By contrast we KNOW God’s capabilities of transformation! The evidence is in scripture, history, in the lives of those around us, and in our own experience.

Therefore, let’s remember:

Praise be to God, our glory and strength!

[1] https://uscpublicdiplomacy.org/blog/jackie-kennedy-public-diplomacy-camelot

[2] Another post about God’s attributes: Rooted/

[3] 2 Peter 1:3

[4] 2 Corinthians 12:9; Ephesians 1:15

[5] Based on a quote of Corrie ten Boom, Holocaust survivor

Image credits: http://www.deviantart.com (Kralj Aleksandar); http://www.boudewijnhuijgens.getarchive.net; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.dailyverses.net (2); http://www.canva.com (2).

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The Restful Life

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Promises, God's Protection, God's Provision, God's Strength, God's Wisdom, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on May 8, 2025| 32 Comments »

We’ve all known people who push themselves hard all day long until they fall into bed at night. Their lists and schedules make sure they use every minute to the fullest.

And though efficiency experts might be impressed by their productivity, it’s likely these ultra Type-A folks are harming themselves—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

The truth is, “Renewal and restoration are not luxuries, they are essentials. Being alone and resting for a while is not selfish; it is Christlike.” Even Jesus took time away to be with his Father [1].

Also important to understand: Rest is an attitude of the heart amidst the responsibilities of the day.  It’s not “some holy feeling that comes upon us in church. It is a state of calm rising from a heart deeply and firmly established in God” [2].

The restful life begins in trusting God, and he’s given us plenty of good reasons to do so:

 OUR GOD PERFORMS RIGHTEOUS DEEDS AND MIGHTY ACTS (Psalm 71:16-18)

OUR GOD HELPS IN NUMEROUS WAYS (Psalm 27:9)

He supplies our needs, guides our decisions, strengthens our spirits, and more.

In addition, his power is at work to help us “understand his love, live a life worthy of our calling, bear fruit in every good work, endure with patience, live a life of thanksgiving, escape the corruption caused by evil desires and overflow with hope” [3].

In other words, he helps us experience the God-enhanced life that truly satisfies our souls.

OUR GOD PROTECTS HIS PEOPLE (Psalm 3:8 CEV)

It’s not his way to protect us from all pain and trouble. Instead, he grants us stamina and strength of spirit to endure, growing us into maturity.

OUR GOD LAVISHES US WITH HIS LOVE (Psalm 86:13)

His compassionate care is expressed as “His wisdom is our direction, His knowledge, our instruction, His power, our protection, His justice, our surety, His love, our comfort, and His mercy, our solace. He holds back nothing from us” [4].

OUR GOD BESTOWS BLESSINGS, BENEFITS, AND GOODNESS (Psalm 103:1, 5)

OUR GOD FULFILLS HIS PROMISES (Psalm 145:13b)

But how can we be sure of that?

“The permanence of God’s character guarantees the fulfillment of his promises” [5].

OUR GOD ANSWERS WHEN WE CALL (Psalm 86:7)

To rest in spite of a “No” or “Wait” answer surely gives indication how well we trust.

These seven assurances of God’s influence in our lives certainly offer wonderful encouragement. But they won’t contribute to spiritual rest unless we “grasp them by faith, plead them by prayer, expect them by hope, and receive them by gratitude” [6].

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

O Lord, I bow before you in wonder that you, the God of the universe, with your infinite power and glory, would provide all these blessings and benefits for me.

Thank you for your gracious benevolence. Help me to REST in these truths, knowing that you have everything under control and you will see me through until I’m home with you.

[1] Chuck Swindoll, The Quest for Character, 49; Luke 6:12.

[2] Henry Drummond, quoted in Streams in the Desert, Jim Reiman, ed., 232.

[3] Melissa Krueger, The Envy of Eve, 104.

[4] Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 141.

[5] A. W. Pink, http://www.gracequotes.org.

[6] Charles Spurgeon

Image credits: http://www.stackcake.com; http://www.canva.com (5).

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As a Shield

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Protection, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Salvation, God's Strength, Renewing the Mind, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on May 1, 2025| 23 Comments »

In May of 2019 archaeologists in central England discovered an ancient shield made of bark, dating back to the Iron Age. It’s the oldest shield ever found.

Some might think such a shield would offer little protection during battle. But experiments have proven the bark of such trees as alder and willow would have served well, providing an effective but lightweight shield, easy to maneuver [1]. 

Fast forward to today. Modern technology has made Israel’s Iron Dome possible. The system shields the country with exceptional radar protection–detecting, tracking, and destroying incoming enemy rockets, high in the sky before they can do any harm [2].

One of Israel’s missile launchers in action

Both shields impress—one for its age and unusual material; the other for its advanced technology and precision.

Scripture speaks of another shield, much older than the one found in England yet still available today, and even more impressive than Israel’s Iron Dome:

The Lord himself.

As we consider that truth, a few questions present themselves:

  • Why would God inspire that metaphor?
  • What does God want me to understand about him being my shield?
  • How might new understanding impact my life?

In researching and pondering the answers to those questions, I discovered that:

God is our shield because of his attributes.

His power shields us from ultimate ruin.

His wisdom shields us from foolishness.

His compassion shields us from emotional and spiritual wounds too deep to heal.

His righteousness shields us from the evil one.

His mercy and grace shield us from the punishment we deserve for our wrongdoing [3].

The list could go on.

God is also our shield because of his actions.

His shield offers:

  • Protection against our arch-enemy Satan and all his cohorts
  • Salvation, saving us from the condemning power of sin
  • Help in times of trouble
  • Faithfulness we can rely on, because of his covenant of love
  • Truth—like the promises of God’s Word that can protect us against discouragement and confusion
  • Favor in the form of lovingkindness, mercy, and grace [4]

God’s shield can cover every aspect of our lives, but . . .

 . . . we must each take up our shield.

God is a gentleman; he doesn’t force his protection, help, or favor upon us. We must come to him and choose to take refuge in him [5].

How? Through prayer.

We invite him to watch over us and protect us.

We affirm the promises and encouragement from his Word.

We remind ourselves of who he is, our Almighty God of Refuge, Shelter and Strength, our Rock of Stability and Safety.

Will you pray with me right now?

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     * 

I praise you, O God, for being my strength and impenetrable shield. I can put my trust in you with unwavering confidence because of who you are [6].

I praise you for not only being a shield in front of me; you are a shield that surrounds me, guarding on all sides [7].

You are above, beneath, around, and within, protecting me from ultimate ruin, irreparable damage to my spirit, and foolishness. You shield me from the full brunt of trouble, the fiery darts of the enemy, and his lies [8].

I praise you for the overflowing peace in knowing you are guarding me as a shield!

[1] https://www.theguardian.com/science/2019/may/23/2300-year-old-iron-age-bark-shield-leicestershire

[2] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-20385306#:~:text=Iron%20Dome%20detects%20and%20tracks,to%20fall%20on%20open%20ground.

[3] Proverbs 3:23-26; 28:26; Psalm 86:12-15; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; Ephesians 2:4-5

[4] Ephesians 6:16; Psalm 18:35 ESV; Deuteronomy 33:29; Psalm 91:4 and Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalm 91:4c; Proverbs 30:5; Psalm 5:12

[5] Matthew 11:28-30

[6] Psalm 28:7 AMP

[7] Psalm 3:3 GWT

[8] Psalm 91:4a; Isaiah 28:16; Psalm 3:3; Colossians 1:27; Ephesians 6:16

Image credits: http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (2); http://www.biblepics.co & http://www.canva.com; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.heartlight.org (3).

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My Peace I Give You

Posted in Bible Study, Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Presence, God's Salvation, Jesus, Peace, Praise, Salvation, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on April 17, 2025| 32 Comments »

Another time, another meal

Easter afternoon we’ll join our son, daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters for dinner in their home—with six other guests.

E. and H. have planned a Georgian feast, based on traditional dishes from the Eastern European country of Georgia. (Did you know that 85% of that nation’s population are Christian? I certainly didn’t.)  

Each family or single person attending this celebration has been given a recipe, so we’ll be able to sample eight different dishes of this new cuisine. And because of the many delicious meals we’ve enjoyed with E. and H., we know:

Within the warm ambiance of their home and the congenial atmosphere as we converse and laugh together, each of our individual concerns will recede to the background. In their place, joy, contentedness, and peace (shalom) will settle upon our spirits.

By contrast, the Passover feast that Jesus celebrated with his disciples, the night before his crucifixion, held little joy or peace for him. In fact, the Apostle John wrote, “Jesus was troubled in spirit” [1].

He knew what would happen that night and into the next day: the pain of betrayal, scourging [2], a crown of thorns thrust on his head, mockery, the crucifixion, and separation from his Father.

The plan had already been set in motion, when Judas approached the chief priests and officers of the temple guard to discuss how—for a price—he might hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present [3].

Under these stressful circumstances Jesus stated to his disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” [4].

The Amplified Version adds: “Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.”

But if Jesus was troubled in his own spirit, how could he promise his peace to the disciples? How could he tell them not to be troubled?

The answer lies in his confidence in his Father. Though fully aware of the suffering to come, Jesus displayed confidence in the purpose and power of his Father and moved forward unhesitatingly to meet the pending crisis [5].

Consider his demeanor over the next eighteen hours or so. Jesus conducted himself with calm quietude from the moment of his arrest to his last breath on the cross. God did indeed supply courage and strength for every torment.

This is the nature of the peace Christ gives to all of us who trust in him [6].

But how do we avail ourselves of this precious gift? (And for those of us who are familiar with these ways to peace, how well are we implementing them?)

Get to know God in his Word.

We considered one way in the post, “Celebrating God in the Psalms.” So many of his attributes and gracious actions are highlighted in these ancient songs.

No God, no peace. Know God, know peace.

–Croft M. Pentz

Practice his presence.

Possibilities include expressing gratitude, speaking simple prayers throughout the day, and singing worship songs.

Be quick to praise God.

You’ll find your cares reduced and your anxieties lessened. The result: expanded peace.

Focus less on the problems ahead and more on the victories behind.

–Max Lucado, Mocha with Max, 82

Come Sunday, our son and daughter-in-law’s home will provide a splendid place of refuge and peace—for a few hours.

How glorious to contemplate that Christ’s refuge and peace is much more splendorous, much more impactful, and for all time!

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, for enduring unimaginable suffering in order to restore our relationship with God and provide the gift of eternal life. Now you are our Lord of peace, ready to give us peace at all times and in every way. You ARE indeed worthy to receive honor and glory and praise!

1 Peter 3:18; 2 Thessalonians 3:16; Revelation 5:12

[1] John 13:21

[2] A flogging, inflicted with a whip of leather straps imbedded with pieces of metal and glass, meant to rip into the flesh. Such a brutal beating often led to death.

[3] Luke 22:1-6

[4] John 14:27

[5] Merrill Tenney, www.preceptaustin.org

[6] Colossians 3:15

Image credits: Nancy Ruegg; http://www.canva.com (3); http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.flickr.com.

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Forward Momentum

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God, Hope, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on April 10, 2025| 27 Comments »

Perhaps you’ve experienced one of these life-altering moments when:

  • A medical diagnosis immediately shifted priorities for the whole family
  • Corporate headquarters announced lay-offs; you were one of them
  • You realized Mom could no longer live alone
  • A spouse announced your marriage was no longer working for them, and they’d found someone else

The first instinct is to shut out the world, pull inward, and allow grief and self-pity full reign.

Yes, grieving is essential, but there comes a time to let go of what was and look to God for what’s next, because:

When we believe God, we move forward.

When we choose to despair, we stay in a pit.

Karol Ladd [1], Thrive, Don’t Simply Survive, 89.

But how do we activate our belief in God in order to combat despair?

Listed below are ten practices for such times. They also provide help when smaller upsets occur and in seasons of spiritual malaise.

Ten Strategies for Forward Momentum:

  • Resist looking too far down the road and becoming discouraged by the what-ifs. Focus on just today–even just the next hour [1].
  • Spend time reflecting on God’s Word and note the transformation of mind and spirit. From Psalm 119 alone we learn that scripture provides strength (v. 28), preservation of life (v. 50), comfort (v. 52), delight (v. 77), wisdom (v. 98), understanding (v. 104), guidance (v. 105), truth (v. 142), and peace (v. 165). Such entities are always beneficial, but especially in the midst of difficulty.
  • Practice gratitude to God frequently throughout the day. Gratitude expands your awareness of his goodness in spite of challenge.
  • Practice praise, for each of his attributes you see at work in your life: his attentiveness, faithfulness, wisdom, and more [2].
  • Counter the urge to look backward and dwell on the negative. Look upward with worship in order to move forward [3].
  • Affirm your confidence in God [4]. You are not alone! You have a trustworthy, all-powerful God working for you and in you. He WILL see you through and bring positive effect out of the situation.
  • Pray about the next steps God would have you take. Rest assured that “where God guides, he also provides”—Unknown [5].
  • Follow the Apostle Paul’s advice in Philippians 4:8, and fill your mind with profitable input. Read spirit-lifting material, listen to Christian music and sing along, listen to encouraging podcasts.
  • Allow others to minister hope and encouragement to you, and be an encourager yourself. That Bible-truth, “It is more blessed to give than to receive”[6] applies to encouragement too.
  • Kindness works in similar fashion. Show kindness to others and find the joy of your heart increased [7].

Feed your hope for tomorrow with scripture verses, song lyrics, and uplifting quotes. Copy them in a journal or notebook. You’ll have instant encouragement at your fingertips.

These quotes may offer a starting point:

The first step toward getting somewhere

is to decide you’re not going to stay where you are.

–John Pierpont Morgan

*    *    *

It may support your heart to consider that

in these troubles God is performing that work

in which your soul would rejoice

–if you did see the design of it.

–John Flavel, Keeping the Heart

* * *

*     *     *

[The road may be rocky] “but with God’s help

the rocks can become stepping stones.”

–Barbara Johnson

Pack Up Your Gloomies in a Great Big Box, 83

*     *     *

Difficulties are sent to make us grow.

Move from complaining to proclaiming

what God is doing through the problem.

Remind yourself, for every Calvary,

there is an Easter.

–Barbara Johnson (source unknown)

* * *

Lord God, when adversity overwhelms us, we ask that you grant:

  • Confidence in you, our wise and trustworthy Shepherd
  • Strength and courage to take the next step
  • Forward momentum, away from our fears and into the future you’ve lovingly prepared

We look forward to watching you bring miraculous good out of our trials. 

In the name of Jesus we pray, AMEN!

(Proverbs 14:16; Psalm 23:1; Isaiah 41:10, 13;

Psalm 139:16; Romans 5:3-4; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Which practices have provided forward momentum for you? Please share in the comment section below!

[1] Matthew 6:34

[2] Psalm 9:1-2

[3] Psalm 121:1-2

[4] 2 Corinthians 3:4-5

[5] Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 58:11

[6] Acts 20:35

[7] Proverbs 11:17a

Image credits: http://www.freerangestock.com; http://www.flickr.com (Kenneth Garcia); http://www.canva.com (3).

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He’s a Keeper!

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Promises, God's Protection, God's Provision, God's Refuge, Peace, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on April 3, 2025| 47 Comments »

What would happen if the keeper(s) of the house gave up their responsibilities? Can you imagine the pile-up of dishes and dust, garbage and grime, dirty clothes and clutter? The house would soon become uninhabitable.

Now think of what would happen if the Keeper of the universe gave up his responsibilities–just on Planet Earth.

His carefully-engineered habitats for plants and animals would collapse, weather patterns conducive for agriculture would become sporadic, and the regulation of Earth’s orbit and rotation would end. Our planet would soon become uninhabitable.

Our God is indeed Keeper extraordinaire of creation!

But his preservation skills impact more than the physical realm. Skim-read these scriptures and see what categories-of-keeping you notice:

  • “The Lord bless you and KEEP you [protect you, sustain you, and guard you]” (Numbers 6:24 AMP).
  • “Lord God of heaven, . . . you faithfully KEEP your promise and show mercy to those who love you and obey your commandments” (Nehemiah 1:5 NIV).
  • “You Lord, KEEP my lamp burning and turn darkness to light” (Psalm 18:28 CEV).
  • “The Lord will KEEP you from evil; he will KEEP your life” (Psalm 121:7 ESV).
  • “You will KEEP in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you” (Isaiah 26:3 NIV).
  • “He will KEEP you strong to the end” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

More scriptures could be added, but even this short list makes clear: We are cared for, guarded, preserved, protected, provided for, shielded, upheld, and watched over (all synonyms for kept).

I’ve lived long enough to see much evidence of God’s keeping, including:

  • His provision when the A/C repairman “just happened” to have in his truck the part we needed, slightly used but still good, which he gave us without charge.
  • God’s protection when the IRS declared our son owed the government $5000. He engaged a tax accountant who verified he only owed $1500. But she also found additional deductions and discovered the IRS owed him $1500!
  • God’s care during sieges of too much to do and not enough time to do it, relieved by changes of plans, help from unforeseen sources, and tasks that didn’t take as long as expected.
  • God’s preservation when troubling events haven’t happened: exposure to illness and we didn’t get sick, dangerous weather projected by meteorologists turned out to be much less severe, or a meeting expected to be stressful actually went smoothly.

Such circumstances occur more frequently than we realize. In fact, “There are not five minutes in the day when [we] do not need the Almighty Keeper to keep charge of [us]” [1].

For some, however, keeping sounds constrictive, like God is repressing us under his thumb, insisting on control, spoiling our fun.

Charles Spurgeon offers a different perspective: “It is . . . a delightful thing to be kept of God . . .  They are kept indeed whom God keeps: they are preserved from evil; they are reserved unto boundless happiness” [2]. The above examples offer proof.

“No, no,” some will say. “Evil happens to good people much too often; sadness intrudes upon every life. Where is God’s keeping then?”

Surely the Apostle Paul was addressed such a question, while held under house arrest in Rome.

He might have answered, “I’ve known and served Christ for many years, and have enjoyed countless blessings along with dynamic relationships. I’ve watched God perform astounding miracles and seen people’s lives transformed by faith in Christ.

“But I’ve also experienced hardship, persecution, suffering, and sorrow, including my imprisonment now. God doesn’t necessarily remove us from difficulty; he preserves us through it.

“We’re upheld by his light in darkness, his comfort in stress, his strength in trouble, his peace in upheaval, and even his joy in spite of disappointment” [3].

And because he wanted everyone to remember that nothing can interfere with God’s compassionate keeping of our lives, Paul wrote:    

How has God demonstrated his compassionate keeping in your life? Please share in the comments below!

[1] Andrew Murray, The Spiritual Life, Whitaker House, 1996, 235.

[2] Faith’s Checkbook, August 4.

[3] Psalm 55:22; 139:12; 23:4; Isaiah 41:10; Nehemiah 8:10c.

Image credits: ww.flickr.com; stockcake.com; http://www.canva.com; stockcake.com; http://www.canva.com (2).

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The Mismatched Pairing

Posted in Blessings, Courage, Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Promises, God's Protection, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Strength, God-Given Abilities, Godly Character, Heroes of the Faith, Joy, Perseverance, Service, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , on March 27, 2025| 38 Comments »

“God preserved me so I might tell the story of my life and of God’s goodness to me,” wrote Jeanette Li in her autobiography. And readers might expect her to share stories indicating a life of continual blessing.

They would be wrong.

Jeanette Li (known first as Li Mao Ya, or “Jasmine Bud”), was born in 1899 and grew up in Southeast China with a large extended family of forty-plus people. They lived in hardship and poverty along with most everyone else in the village.

At age six, Jeanette suffered her first trauma—her beloved father died.

Many more ordeals followed, including:

At age 9: Jeanette contracted malaria and received treatment at a mission hospital. One blessing: while there, she and her mother, Taai-So, became Christians.

Perhaps a mission such as this one in central China

When Jeanette was released, they returned home, only to be turned away by their Buddhist family because they’d become Christians.  Taai-So and Jeanette returned to the mission and lived there.

Age 10: The mission was closed due to political strife; all their missionary-friends had to leave.

Age 16: Against Jeanette’s will, Taai-So arranged a marriage for Jeanette, in order to provide for her daughter’s future. Jeanette went to live with her husband’s family under the thumb of a domineering mother-in-law.

Age 20: Jeanette bore a son. But her husband was rarely home, first because he was in school, and then because he was hired as a teacher some distance away. Eventually he married someone else.

Age 32: Jeanette left all she knew to live and serve in bitter-cold Manchuria, requiring her to learn a new language and culture. For thirteen years she traveled by cart on unpaved roads, telling people about Jesus.

Age 38: War broke out between China and Japan in 1937, lasting eight years. Millions died in combat or the result of starvation or disease.

Age 47: The Communists warred against the Nationalists in a three-year civil war, resulting in more suffering and the death of another million-plus people.

Jeanette returned to South China, to the mission where she and her mother had lived. Jeanette was questioned many times by Communist Army officials.

Age 50: All foreign missionaries were constrained to leave China as the Communist Party took power. Jeanette assumed responsibility for the mission-orphanage.

Age 51: She suffered imprisonment for seventeen months, accused of being a counter-revolutionary. Jeanette had to sleep on the floor “in a damp cell infested by mosquitoes, with hardly any food”[1].

They forced her to perform hard labor, and interrogated her day and night. she became ill with fever and developed hemorrhaging dysentery. Her captors offered no medical treatment [2].

Some would ask, “Where was God in all this? The poor woman endured such hardship, pain, and unfair treatment!”

Jeanette would have us know that God graciously involved himself throughout her life, blessing her, and bringing her joy:

He was there during the siege of malaria that took Jeanette and her mother to the regional mission. God spared Jeanette’s life and introduced them to Jesus.

When they returned home, God used the family upheaval to lead the two back to the mission. Taai-So obtained employment and they grew in their Christian faith.

God brought good out of the abandonment of Jeanette’s husband, providing the opportunity for her to obtain a teaching certificate. She was able to support her son as a teacher and then as school administrator.

God fulfilled Jeanette’s desire to tell others about Jesus and made it possible for her to serve in Manchuria, teaching in village after village.

God led her to return to South China where he used her to assume leadership of the mission-orphanage, putting to use her skills as educator and administrator.

God sustained Jeanette during her imprisonment as she suffered acute misery with grace, courage, and stamina—a witness to all in the prison of God’s power at work in her life.

God also spared her life as illness and weakness nearly overcame her.

After her release, God provided for her recovery and subsequent missionary-work in Canton.

God bestowed a miraculous escape from Communist China, first to Hong Kong where she ministered to children and refugees, and finally, in 1962, to Los Angeles, California where her son already lived.

Throughout her life, Jeanette was one of those “true saints who [could] wear the mismatched pairing of suffering and joy” [3]. And as a result,  she drew attention to Christ.

May we do the same.

Addendum: For six years prior to a fatal stroke, Jeanette ministered in the Chinese community of Los Angeles, told her story at every opportunity, and wrote her autobiography.

[1] https://www.placefortruth.org/blog/jeanette-li-and-her-faith-in-gods-promises

[2] Ibid.

[3] https://jenniferdukeslee.com/on-suffering-and-joy-a-lesson-from-the-garden-tomato/ 

Other Sources:

https://www.bdcconline.net

https://rpwitness.org

Jeanette Li (Yin Wei Jie)

Image credits: http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.getarchive.net (2); http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.freebibleimages.org; http://www.getarchives.net.

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A Personal Chapel

Posted in Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Refuge, Intimacy with God, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on March 20, 2025| 34 Comments »

“It isn’t necessary that we stay in church in order to remain in God’s presence,” wrote Brother Lawrence. “We can make our hearts personal chapels where we can enter anytime to talk to God privately” [1].

Isn’t that a glorious realization?

After all, “God could have . . . made his sanctuary in the farthest galaxies, in the majestic mountains, in the deep oceans, or in the vast Grand Canyon. But he chose to live in you and me” [2].

Being a visual learner causes me to wonder, What might an imaginary, personal chapel look like?

I see intricately-carved marble bathed in golden light, stained glass windows creating rainbows on the walls, and a soaring ceiling that fosters awe and wonder.

I also see a long, winding staircase within the castle of my heart. It leads upward to this turret-chapel, far away from the concerns and distractions of the day.

Along that staircase, images line the walls—reminders of God’s attentive care through the years. By the time I reach the chapel-door, my spirit is filled with gratitude and praise.

But the door is closed.

And the only action that will open it is repentance.

Sin is no small matter; it is cosmic treason—it is overthrowing the rule of the One to whom I owe everything [3].

But what do I say? King David’s prayer of repentance (Psalm 51) gives me words:

Lord God, I feel dirty with self-centeredness and pride as I approach your presence. I ask you to wash me, cleanse me, and purge me. Blot out my iniquities, I pray.

I praise you for your mercy and steadfast love that prompt you to abound with forgiveness. “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Amen.” [4].

And the door swings open.

There my Heavenly Father sits in an ornate chair, befitting the Almighty King. He beckons me to join him and perch on his footstool [5].

“I’m so glad you’ve come . Just sit and rest awhile. Allow my calming presence to envelop you.” And his arm gently rests on my shoulders.

“Now, what brings you here today?” he asks, while leaning back comfortably in his chair.

“Feelings of frustration,” I blurt. “Circumstances are not unfolding as I expected.”

“I know Child. Remember, I am over all and through all and in all [6]—even in these circumstances. Refresh your spirit with such affirmations of trust as:

“I also feel overwhelmed, Lord. The to-do list is long and time is short.” I turn my body to face him more squarely.  “Please help me prioritize and use my time wisely.”

“Of course!” he responds, with a pat on my back. “When you need wisdom, just ask. I am always ready to oblige” [7].

“Thank you, Father, for your reassurance to see me through [8]!

“And then, one more thing. I ask that you help me honor you in the tasks and encounters of this day.”

He smiles. “Now that is the kind of prayer I love to answer. Never forget that I am always with you; I am your reliable and perfect helper” [9].

I bask in his presence as God provides encouragement from his Word. The golden light that emanates from his presence, permeates my being [10].

I receive the inflowing of the Holy Spirit; he strengthens my will, thinking, and perceptions [11]. He grants me shalom—wholeness, contentment, and peace.

Now I’m ready to face the day, but very glad that anytime I can swoop up that staircase to my personal chapel and be ministered to by the Lord himself.

Praise God for his open invitation to come and his gracious benefits when we do!

 

[1] The Practice of the Presence of God, “Fourth Letter,” edited by Whitaker House, 1982.

[2] Beth Moore, A Woman’s Heart: God’s Dwelling Place, 215.

[3] Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller, The Songs of Jesus, 108.

[4] Based on Psalm 51:1-3, 7, 9-10, and a devotional by Dane C. Ortlund, In the Lord I Take Refuge, 144.

[5] Psalm 99:5

[6] Ephesians 4:6

[7] Based on James 1:5 NLT

[8] Proverbs 3:5-6

[9] Psalm 118:7a

[10] 2 Corinthians 4:6

[11] Based on The Spiritual Life by Andrew Murray, Whitaker House, 1996, pp. 148, 155.

Image credits: http://www.picryl.com; http://www.flickr.com (Chris Smith); http://www.canva.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.canva.com.

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A Deep River

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Jesus, Joy, Meditation, Obedience, Praise, Salvation, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , , , on March 6, 2025| 32 Comments »

Some of you may remember singing this song in Sunday School:

As a child, I knew God loved me. He proved it by sending his Son to take the punishment for my sins, provide the way for me to live in heaven one day, and know him in the present.  

But I also knew my little eyes, hands, and mouth were not as careful they should have been. Surely God was disappointed in me much of the time.

The truth that I could enjoy God never entered my mind. My false impression of his disapproval stood in the way for many years.

Somehow I’d missed the message of such scriptures as:

  • The joy you have in the LORD is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10 GWT).
  • Take delight in the Lord (Psalm 37:4a NIV).
  • I will go to the altar of God, . . . my joy and my delight (Psalm 43:4 NIV).

I read such passages as directives for prayer and worship rather than invitations to take pleasure in relationship with God.

Psalm 100 provides Exhibit A for enjoying him by praising him. “Shout for joy,” the psalmist begins. “Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs” (vs. 1-2, emphasis added).

Then he gives one example why: God has made us his own—in spite of our frailty—and cares for us like a compassionate, attentive shepherd (v. 3).

Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3-7)

That’s certainly cause for thanksgiving and praise (v. 4), which in turn fosters our delight in God. Then the psalmist concludes with three more reasons to enjoy him: he is good, loving, and faithful (v. 5).

This psalm hints at another important truth. Dare I use a sport analogy?

My first attempts at playing tennis sent balls whizzing every which way. However, various drills and hitting the ball thousands of times against a wall built up my skills until I could actually play the game.

That’s when I began to enjoy the sport. The better I knew how to play tennis, the more pleasure I took in the game.

‘See the parallel in the spiritual realm? The more we know God, the more we’ll enjoy him.

But that’s not all.

The more we delight in God, the easier it becomes to obey him and live by his ways.

And as we see those ways contributing satisfaction, contentment, and purpose to our lives, we enjoy him all the more.

So how do we foster our pleasure in God? Here are three ways to get us started:

LEARN ALL YOU CAN ABOUT GOD—his character and his ways.

In January we explored the exercise of slowly reading through the psalms and writing down every mention of God’s character and deeds. As the list grows so does our delight in his multi-faceted splendor [1].

LEARN ALL YOU CAN ABOUT JESUS—his life, sacrificial death, provision of eternal life for us and all its implications.

For example, while reading the gospels, note his responses to people, his choices, and his behavior. What character traits can you identify?

While reading the letters written by the Apostles Paul, Peter, and others, consider all that Christ’s sacrifice has purchased for us.

The more we learn about Jesus, the more our love for him grows. The more our love grows, the more we find our hearts filled with joy in him.

REVEL IN GOD’S BEAUTY—his magnificence, the glory of his creation, and the beautiful blessings he bestows.

“His love notes are stashed everywhere,” says Sara Hagerty [2].

And as we discover them, we’ll find ourselves smiling and even laughing in pleasure with God, in the awesome works he performs [3].

Oh—and one more thing to celebrate. There will always be more to enjoy, and we can always acquire more ability to enjoy our God because . . .

quote from Morning by Morning, 268.

How do you enjoy God? Please share in the comment section below!

[1] https://nancyaruegg.com/2025/01/16/celebrating-god-through-the-psalms/

[2] Unseen, 206.

[3] https://nancyaruegg.com/2019/06/06/love-notes/

Image credits: http://www.youtube.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.freebibleimages.org; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pixahive.com (Vijay Richhiya).

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