Encouragement | From the Inside Out

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The Glory of Here and Now

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, tagged 2 Corinthians 3:18, 2 Corinthians 4:6, Colossians 1:10, Ephesians 1:18, Glorification of God's People, God's Glory, Reflecting God's Glory, Romans 8:30 on August 6, 2015| 11 Comments »

At least one verse in the Bible achieves a remarkable feat. It covers the entire expanse of eternity—from before the beginning of time into the infinite future—with just eighteen words (in the NIV):

“Those [God] predestined, he also called;

those he called, he also justified,

those he justified, he also glorified.”

–Romans 8:30.

That verse also includes four heavy-duty theological concepts. Thick volumes of commentary have been written about each one: 1) predestination, 2) God’s call upon a life, 3) justification, and 4) glorification. But Eugene Peterson has explained each with brevity, wisdom, and simplicity:

“After God made the decision of what his children should be like” (predestined*),

”he followed it up by calling people by name” (called).

“After he called them by name, He set them on a solid basis with himself” (justified).

“And then, after getting them established, he stayed with them to the end,

gloriously completing what he had begun” (glorified).

–Romans 8:30, The Message

Part of that completion will occur when Jesus presents us with our new bodies and abilities, once we reach heaven (Philippians 3:20-21).

But note that those key verbs: predestined, called, justified, and glorified, are all past tense—even the last one.

Some Bible scholars make the point that our glorification in heaven** is so certain, Paul chose past tense.

But there are at least several aspects of glorification that are available to us now. That’s because God’s glory—the sum of his majesty, splendor, and wondrous attributes—gleams brightly in the hearts of those who know Jesus (2 Corinthians 4:6).

Think of it. Everything he is, he offers to us in the present, including his wisdom, grace, and kindness; goodness, mercy, and strength; truth, power, and love. Of course, that’s just a partial list. Our God is infinite; so are his glorious attributes.

And as we make ourselves available to God, we begin to experience God’s glory in our lives.

We begin to recognize his goodness in every provision, his mercy and power each time we’re shielded from harm, his wisdom when events unfold for our growth, his love in every blessing, great and small.

We begin to make choices that reflect God’s glorious presence within. Out of love and appreciation, we desire to lead a life worthy of him and pleasing to him in every way (Colossians 1:10).

We also begin to reflect God’s glory to others.

In 1852, a small band of miners discovered gold in Montana. Knowing that the gold rush in California (1849) had caused cutthroat competition and gross inflation, they decided to keep their find a secret. But not long after they returned to town, word spread of their discovery.

Who let the secret slip out? No one. The townspeople knew they had found gold because of the joy on their faces.

We, the glorified children of God, have found greater wealth than gold in our Heavenly Father. And as we contemplate his glory, we become transformed into his image. Joy radiates from our faces, just as it did from the miners’ (2 Corinthians 3:18).

Even more wondrous? As we seek to know him, the Almighty God of the universe is pursuing us. He longs for us to be close to him, where we can experience more of his glory—here and now– and “the glorious riches of his inheritance among the saints” (Ephesians 1:18 HCSB).

Praise to our glorious God for his overflowing love, kindness, and generosity!

* * * * * * * * * *

*Predestination is a confusing concept. I appreciate Warren Wiersbe’s explanation in Be Right (Victor Books, 1976). He says the concept only applies to Christians. Nowhere in the Bible do we find evidence that God has prechosen certain people to be forever condemned. He’s given each person the choice to follow him or not (John 1:12).

** a thorough transformation into holy radiance (Ephesians 5:27)

(Art & photo credits: www.pinterest.com; http://www.faithgateway.com; http://www.egoldprospecting.com.)

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Precious and Highly Cherished

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Love, Self-Esteem, tagged 1 Corinthians 2:9, 1 Peter 1:18-19, Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 2:8-9, God treasures us, God's love for us, Isaiah 43:4, Psalm 139:17, We are cherished by God, We are precious to God on July 30, 2015| 15 Comments »

On my right hand I wear a ring–just a small ruby solitaire, set in a narrow gold band with a bit of delicate embellishment on either side.

I’ve owned the ring since I was a young teen—a long time ago! Yet the ring is even older than I am, passing its one hundredth birthday back in 2004.

The original owner was my grandmother. Great Grandpa and Grandma gave her the ring in 1904, on her fourteenth birthday. On my fourteenth birthday, she surprised me by passing the ring on to me.

All these decades since, the presence of that little band continually reminds me of her—a kind, soft-spoken woman of deep strength and enduring faith. (I wrote about her a couple of years ago. You can access that post–“The God of Rachel, Clara, and Henry, Part 1”– here.)

Perhaps you, too, own a cherished possession that may not appear significant to others, but is highly valuable to you. In fact, you treasure it.

On a much grander scale, God treasures you. You are dearly beloved and precious to him.

Oh, no, some will say. Not me. I’m not good enough, smart enough, or talented enough to be highly valued.

That’s not what scripture says:

(“For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lose their value. It was the precious blood of Christ,the sinless, spotless Lamb of God” (1 Peter 1:18-19).

God paid a very high price with the precious blood of his own Son, in order to make you his treasured possession. Evidently goodness, smarts, and talent have nothing to with it (Ephesians 2:8-9)!

And God doesn’t view you as ordinary, anymore than I consider my ruby ring ordinary.

Here are several indicators of the high value he places on you:

You are precious and honored in God’s sight simply because he loves you (Isaiah 43:4). Just as God went to great lengths to bring his precious children of Israel out of captivity, so he has gone to great lengths to bring you into his family.

He is constantly thinking about you (Psalm 139:17)–preparing for your welfare, providing for your needs, guiding and guarding until it is time for your final journey to heaven.

He blesses you with all spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3). It is not the material stuff of the outer life that satisfies; it is the wealth of spiritual blessings of the inner life. God offers: forgiveness of sin, freedom from guilt, peace of mind, joy of heart, wisdom, comfort and strength—to name a few.

God has prepared for you an eternity of absolute bliss (1 Corinthians 2:9).

Think of it. God Almighty sees and appreciates your value, your beauty.

He speaks affirmation and restoration to your soul through his Word (Psalm 19:7).

He listens with wrapt attention when you call to him (Psalm 145:18).

He enfolds you in his wings of protection and comfort (Psalm 36:7).

He is with you, for you, and in you.

Accept it, embrace it. Send your roots down deep into the truth:

You. Are. Highly. Cherished.

(Photo and art credits: Nancy Ruegg; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.winterpastfinally.blogspot.com; http://www.faithgateway.com; http://www.thelovelyscribe.com.

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Ten Ways to Show Respect

Posted in Encouragement, Godly Character, Uncategorized, tagged 1 Peter 2:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Politeness, showing respect, Think before you speak, Thoughtfulness on July 20, 2015| 16 Comments »

In one scene of What’s Up Doc? (an old screwball comedy from 1972, starring Barbra Streisand and Ryan O’Neal), a hotel concierge wants the gruff house detective to stop a particular woman from leaving the hotel.

“And how am I supposed to do that?” inquires the detective with much sarcasm.

“Use your charm,” replies the concierge.

So when the woman enters the lobby and heads for the doors, the detective…

…trips the unsuspecting victim, causing her to sprawl in a most unladylike fashion on the floor.

Charming indeed.

I dare say some folks are just about as clueless as that detective when it comes to such an illusive quality as charm. Just what is it that makes a person charming?

One important quality, for sure, is respect.

And it happens to be a biblical concept:

“Show proper respect to everyone.”

(1 Peter 2:17)

M-m-m. Everyone. Not just the people at church on a Sunday morning, or at the meeting with the boss on Monday—but with family, and those with whom we have little in common, and even those we don’t particularly like.

But how do we demonstrate such over-arching respect?

Here are ten possibilities. (And while you’re reading, consider: Which of these strategies, when administered to you, have made you feel especially respected?)

Politeness – even at home. Be on the alert for rudeness, sarcasm, and inconsiderate comments or behavior. Even family members deserve to be treated politely. Make home a haven of kindness.

Tact. Perhaps your mother was like mine, offering the frequent reminder, “THINK before you speak.” It was wise advice.

Gratitude. Never let an opportunity pass by to say “thank you” for the least of favors or the smallest of gifts. Try to be a person who notices.

Thoughtfulness — demonstrates that you value the other person. Let the Golden Rule be your guide.

Compliments — especially in the hearing of others. Plant a lot of positive input into the people around you, and make their souls blossom.

Focused Listening—with eyes as well as ears. Even if you can recite his last sentence word for word, but your eyes were on the door, on the kids, or on a screen (as in TV, computer, iPhone, etc.) he will assume you’re not interested.

Reliability. Keep promises and commitments; be on time for appointments or engagements. Consideration of these matters indicates you truly care about the other person.

Respect also requires that we avoid certain behaviors:

Avoid comparisons to others. Suggesting that Jake be more like Zeke is deflating and demoralizing, not helpful.

Avoid criticism unless absolutely necessary. Share judgments carefully, sandwiched between positive and affirming comments. NEVER criticize in front of others.

Avoid making corrections, especially in the company of others. Does it really matter if an event happened on Tuesday, not Wednesday, or that the car was a Ford and not a Chevy? Interrupting with unimportant corrections borders on rudeness. Yes, it does.

I’ve heard some people say, “If So-and-So wants respect, she needs to earn it.”

In my younger years, I made similar remarks, too. I wish I’d known better.

The truth of the matter is:

“The way we treat others is more about who we are,

not who they are.”

(Source unknown)

Perhaps the above list can be our guide.

So! Did you agree wholeheartedly with one or more of these evidences of respect–because you’ve been treated that way, and felt valued as a result? Tell us about it in the comment section below!

(Art & photo credits: www.pinterest.com; http://www.wpclipart.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.quotescover.som.)

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The Right Word at the Right Time

Posted in Encouragement, Uncategorized, tagged Grief Support, Proverbs 16:24, What to say to those in tough times on July 6, 2015| 12 Comments »

Lauren’s husband, Mike, was the quintessential family man. He took the kids to the park, in order to give Lauren a break from mothering and homeschooling. He pitched in with the folding of laundry and the execution of science experiments. He quickly turned the Honey-Do list into Honey-Did, because Mike actually enjoyed puttering around the house, making repairs and improvements.

One Saturday he climbed up on the roof to check for a leak around the chimney. Somehow he lost his footing, tumbled to the ground, and hit his head on the cement driveway. He never regained consciousness, and died the next day.

FOR THOSE WHO GRIEVE

When such unspeakable tragedies occur to those we know and love, what words can we say to the family in order to comfort or help? Every possibility seems terribly inadequate:

“Mike was such a good guy.”
“We’re going to miss him.”
“We are so sorry.”

Actually, those three statements offer good places to begin. Experts in grief support tell us that affirming the positive qualities of the loved one is very meaningful to a grieving family. A short story that highlights one of those qualities is also appropriate. The assurance that the loved one will be missed offers comfort as well. And even a simple but heartfelt “We-are-so-sorry” communicates caring and support.

FOR THOSE WHO SUFFER

In addition to the loss of a loved one, there are other situations that may be less traumatic, but still leave us tongue-tied, wondering what we can say—situations like divorce, lay-offs, scandal, and serious illness.

Again, we’d do well to turn to the experts who tell us to:

Express sympathy. “I am so sorry you are going through this tough time.”
Offer affirmation. “I’ve always been impressed by your _____.” Then name the strengths and personality traits that will be especially valuable during this time of trial. Such encouragement may help her see that God has equipped her, and he will see her through.
Listen.

Yes, just listen.

Perhaps instead of worrying about saying the right thing, we’d be wise to let the hurting person share what’s on her heart.

A listening ear is a precious gift we can give in a world that overflows with chatter from electronics, technology, family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, etc. In fact, there seem to be more talkers these days than listeners.

Rearrange the letters of listen and you can make the word silent. To be good listeners we have to be silent and let the other person talk, uninterrupted. However, communication should still occur through:

eye contact, which indicates our interest and her importance to us,
facial expressions, as we respond to her words,
brief comments or questions now and then, that indicate we’ve heard her.

FOR THOSE WHO ARE DISCOURAGED

It is vital that we keep each other supported because Satan and his cohorts constantly whisper lies into our spirits. Lies such as:

“Who do you think you are anyway? And what makes you think you’re capable of accomplishing anything worthwhile? You are inadequate, unimportant, and practically useless. Get to the back of the line where you belong!”

The truth is: We’re sons and daughters of the King. He has created each of us with spiritual gifts and talents to fulfill a specific purpose.

We can affirm others with such comments as:

“I am so glad God created you with _____.” Again, name the strengths, talents, and personality traits that you admire.
“You know what else I appreciate about you?” Share your observations of her being courageous or wise or persevering—whatever might encourage her most, considering her current circumstances.
“For these reasons and more, I count it a great privilege to know you.”

Such “pleasant words are like honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body” (Proverbs 16:24).

* * * * * * * * * *

Father, I thank you for the privilege of being your voice, to minister encouragement to others. You’ve given us your heart to express love and compassion to a hurting world. We pray for your Spirit’s wisdom and strength to be at work in us and through us, because we so desire to offer your right words at the right time.

(Photo credits: www.visualphotos.com; http://www.thecripplegate.com; http://www.celebrationchurchlive.com.)

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What Contributes to Greatness

Posted in Bible Study, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Provision, God-Given Abilities, tagged God's Gentleness, Psalm 18:35 on June 29, 2015| 8 Comments »

“You have given me the shield of your salvation,

and your right hand supported me,

and your __________ made me great.”

–Psalm 18:35 (EST)

What word would you put in that blank?

Power?
Grace?
Mercy?

The word chosen most often by translators* may surprise you. It certainly surprised me.

“Your GENTLENESS made me great.”

In addition to being surprised, I was puzzled. How can God’s attribute of gentleness make a person great?

A good place to begin our search for understanding is the background of this psalm. It was written by King David, perhaps during his later years. He may have been pondering the incredible progression of his life from lowly shepherd boy to exalted king.

Surely young David never even daydreamed of becoming the most powerful man in Israel, as he sat on the hillsides of Bethlehem watching over his father’s sheep.

Neither could he have known at least fifteen years would pass between his anointing as king (a ceremony indicating a setting apart) and his actual coronation.

And contrary to human logic, those intervening years would not be spent as a student in preparation, but as a fugitive and outlaw, running for his life. Seems like such a waste of time, doesn’t it? As David hid from King Saul in the Cave of Adullam, did he wonder, Lord God, what ARE you doing?

In hindsight we can see that God was gently teaching and preparing David his way, with practical, hands-on lessons such as:

The Lord hears the prayers of the afflicted and encourages them (Psalm 10:17).
The Lord’s unfailing love can be trusted (Psalm 13:5).
The Lord gives wise counsel (Psalm 16:7).
The Lord is like a rock. His people can take refuge in him (Psalm 18:2).
There is no need to fear evil, because the Lord is always present with his own (Psalm 23:4).

One definition of gentle is “considerate or kindly.” God certainly demonstrated gentleness of this nature by endowing David with certain character traits–traits that would serve him well as monarch over Israel:

Courage—most obvious, perhaps, when teenaged David took on nine-foot-plus Goliath (1 Samuel 17)
Perseverance—when he spent those years waiting for God’s plan to be fulfilled, all the while fleeing from Saul’s vengeful rage (1 Samuel 19-2 Samuel 1)
Cleverness—on display when David pretended madness in order to avoid death at the hands of the Philistines (21:10-15)
Restraint—when he twice resisted the opportunity to kill Saul before the king killed him (chapters 24 and 26)
Respectability—During his years as a fugitive, six hundred men gathered in support of David and fought with him (27:3-4).

Another definition of gentle is “tender hearted.” No doubt it was with a tender heart that God:

Bestowed upon David the gifts of poetry and music (1 Samuel 16:18)
Demonstrated his wonderful love (Psalm 31:21)
Forgave David (32:1-2)
Remained faithful to him (57:3)
Protected David in the shadow of his wings (61:4)

But here’s even better news about God’s gentleness: It wasn’t reserved just for David or other Bible heroes. God displays his gentle nature to all of his children, every day.

In hindsight, we, too, can often see God’s gentle teaching and preparation for what he has called us to do. (If you’re in the middle of that process, rest assured those tough life-lessons you’re enduring now will not be for nothing!)

Second, with kind and gentle consideration, God has bestowed upon each of us specific character traits that qualify us to accomplish his plans. (And that plan isn’t complete until we hear the angels sing!)

Third, God has surely demonstrated his gentle, tender-hearted love for us, beginning with the death of his Son on a cross and ending with…

…well, there is no end to his faithfulness, grace, mercy, attentive care, peace, joy, and more. How glorious is that?

And though it’s very doubtful you or I will ever be great monarchs like David, we can aspire to greatness in God’s eternal kingdom.

How? By serving him wherever we are with the specific gifts and traits he has given us.

Jesus spoke that truth very clearly:

(“The greatest among you will be your servant.” –Matthew 23:11)

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, God, for your gentleness that tenderly prepares us for our purpose, kindly endows us with attributes for that calling, and graciously showers us with the benefits of your character, all throughout life.

Help me, I pray, to be compliant under your tender hand, ready and willing to follow your gentle lead, and generous to bestow upon others the graces of your character which I have enjoyed. Amen.

(Photo and art credits: www.panoramio.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.donnarios.com; http://www.plusii.blogspot.co.uk; http://www.pinterest.com.)

* www.biblehub.com provides easy access to twenty translations of the Bible. Fifteen out of twenty include the word “gentleness” at the end of Psalm 18:35, or a synonym: humility, lowliness, or meekness.

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YOU Are the Apple of God’s Eye

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Protection, God's Provision, God's Salvation, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged 1 Peter 5:7, Deuteronomy 32:10, Deuteronomy 32:11, God cares for us, God guards us, God our Shield, God's Protection, God's Provision, Psalm 28:7, Psalm 92:4 on June 25, 2015| 14 Comments »

In a desert land he found him,

in a barren and howling waste.

He shielded him and cared for him;

he guarded him as the apple of his eye

(Deuteronomy 32:10, italics added).

Notice the verbs: found, shielded, cared for, and guarded. Just as God watched over the Hebrew nation in the wilderness, God is surely watchful over each of us. See if these stories trigger memories of your own–when God found, shielded, cared for, and guarded you.

FOUND:

Growing up in a Christian home, I learned about Jesus before taking my first steps. At age four, after hearing the crucifixion story, I asked Jesus to be my Savior and constant Companion. Even as a preschooler, I understood my need for Someone to take the punishment I deserved for my naughtiness, so I could receive God’s gift of eternal life. If Jesus was willing to suffer and die in my place, how could I say, “no?”

Praise God he seeks after lost sheep—even the little ones (Luke 15:4)!

Where did God find you?

SHIELDED:

Numerous times over the years I have felt shielded from harm, including serious car accidents.

One time while approaching a stoplight, I hit a rain-slicked patch of city street, with cars in front of me and a bus to the right. My car began to slide and swerve; I started pumping the brakes. But there was no way to stop soon enough and avoid collision with the slowing line of vehicles ahead.

I took a chance and turned a bit to the right, hoping beyond hope there would be enough room for me to squeeze ahead of the bus, where the lane was open. Surely God intervened and created the needed space. (I think he also alerted the bus driver to apply his brakes and leave room for me!) My car did come to a safe stop, with room to spare.

God has shielded me in other important ways, too. He’s protected me from life-choices that would have led me down treacherous paths. He’s saved me from unhealthy relationships.

Praise God he is our shield! We can trust in him, and receive the help we need (Psalm 28:7).

How has God shielded you?

CARED FOR:

I couldn’t find the dental insurance form I needed to drop off at Dr. H.’s office. Jeremy (our younger son and a middle schooler at the time) assisted me in a thorough search. No form. While out on my walk, it suddenly occurred to me the form may have been gathered up with the newspaper. Sure enough, that’s where it was. Being Wednesday, those papers—and the dental form—should have been long gone in the recycling truck, but Jeremy was saving newsprint for his art teacher. God not only revealed to me the location of that form, but kept it safe, saving me the hassle of getting a new one and filling it all out again.

Praise God for his loving attention, even in small matters like dental forms (1 Peter 5:7)!

How has God cared for you?

GUARDED:

One spring day in 1985, an elderly gentleman hit the gas pedal instead of the brake, at the stop sign on our corner. He drove his station wagon right through the garage wall. Several feet more to the right and he would have plowed into our daughter’s room, and she was playing there at the time. The driver was protected, too, sustaining only minor injuries.

Praise God he guards us like an eagle, hovering over its young (Deuteronomy 32:11).

How has God guarded you?

THE APPLE OF HIS EYE:

The last phrase of Deuteronomy 32:10 explains why God is so attentive to his people. We are the apple of his eye. Some translations replace apple with pupil. God protects us as the pupil of his eye.

Just as our eyesight is precious to us, so we are precious to God.

As we’re careful to provide protective care for our eyes, shielding them from danger, for example, so God provides loving, protective care of us.

May we continually praise our God for all he is to us. First, he found us, and then became our attentive Shield, Provider, and Guard.

(“You make me glad by your deeds, O Lord; I sing for joy at the works of your hands” — Psalm 92:4.)

In the Comments below, please share your personal stories of how God found you, or how he has proved himself as your Shield, Provider, and Guard. Let’s celebrate together God’s powerful deeds on our behalf!

(Art and photo credits: www.biblewalks.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.com; http://www.imagefriend.com; http://www.slideshare.net; http://www.pinterest.com.)

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God’s Pleasure in Progress

Posted in Encouragement, God's Delight, God's Grace, Godly Character, Holiness, Maturity, Perseverance, Success, Uncategorized, tagged God celebrates progress, God's Compassion, God's Grace, Isaiah 30:18, Matthew 5:48, Philippians 3:12-14, Psalm 103:1-2, Psalm 147:11, Psalm 37:23, When practice makes perfect, Zephaniah 3:17 on June 15, 2015| 11 Comments »

My first teaching job was in a small community southwest of Lexington, Kentucky. Although the school included first through sixth grades, there were only five teachers. Second grade was divided, some students included in first, the rest with third. I was assigned the first/second split.

The first morning of school went by quickly as we read stories, played a few learning games, and completed a class chart of favorite summer activities. Soon it was time to march to the cafeteria for lunch.

The children lined up to receive their plates of food, and then were instructed to pick up napkins, utensils, cartons of milk, and straws – all without benefit of trays. Little hands struggled to hold so many items–much less carry them all without accident. (And why were the first and second graders seated farthest from the serving line? I never had the nerve to ask.)

So began my habit of standing at the end of the counter, wrapping utensils and a straw in a napkin, then perching a milk carton on an empty corner of the plate as the students passed by.

One second grader, Ricky, was much too manly to use a straw. Each day he would proclaim, “I don’t need no straw.”

Each day I would patiently correct him: “I don’t need a straw.” Ricky would repeat it again after me. It almost became a joke between us, as the exchange occurred day after day, month after month.

One noontime in March, while focused on wrapping the next set of flatware, I heard Ricky’s voice proudly proclaim, “I DON’T NEED A STRAW!”

My eyes popped, Ricky’s twinkled, and his broad smile indicated his pleasure in remembering–all by himself–how to correctly form his request.

A quick hug, a few pats on the back, and an “I-am-so-PROUD-of-you!” let him know how I felt.

It never occurred to me to say, “Well, it’s about time, Bud! You DO realize we’ve repeated this little ceremony over one hundred times, don’t you?”

No. This was a moment to celebrate! Our perseverance had paid off. And perhaps this one little grammatical victory would prompt Ricky to conquer the next. I was thrilled.

Do you suppose that’s how God feels when our “practice makes perfect?”

When:

Our quiet time with him finally becomes a near-daily habit?
We remember to express gratitude and praise to him throughout the day?
We’re able to think before we speak more consistently?
We forgo some purchase for pleasure in order to supply someone else with necessities?
We put aside our agenda to do a favor for someone else?

Yes, I believe God is thrilled with our steps of progress, just as I was with Ricky’s effort. If God withheld his pleasure until we reached perfection, we’d never experience even one good thing (Psalm 84:11). He’d always be in discipline-mode.

But Isaiah tells us: “The Lord longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion” (30:18).

David reminds us that out of his grace and compassion he guides our steps and takes delight when we follow his way (Psalm 37:23).

Another psalmist proclaimed that the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love (147:11). No mention of delight reserved only for those who are perfect.

Ah, but what about Jesus’ statement in Matthew 5:48: “Be perfect as your Heavenly Father is perfect?”

Yes, that is the standard, but God does not disapprove of us because we have not achieved that goal. He knows perfection this side of heaven is impossible. What he does approve of is effort—to press on like Paul to “receive the heavenly prize for which God through Christ Jesus, is calling us” (Philippians 3:12-14).

When we stumble, we keep going. When we fall, we get up and try again.

But listen closely. You’ll hear God celebrating our progress (Zephaniah 3:17).

* * * * * * * * * *

We praise you, Heavenly Father, for being a gracious, compassionate God,

who is slow to become angry and always abounding in loving-kindness.

Even as we strive to be more like you,

we can rest in the knowledge that you will not condemn us

when we stumble and fall.

Thank you for your readiness to forgive and your everlasting love.

Thank you for continually drawing us closer to you and your perfection.

(Psalm 103:1-2, Romans 8:1; 1 John 1:9; Jeremiah 31:3).

Photo credits: www.pinterest.com; http://www.grist.org; http://www.neabscobaptist.org; http://www.untilsheflies.com.)

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Believing What We Do Not See

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Heroes of the Faith, Perseverance, Service, Success, tagged Archaeological proof of scripture, Can we trust the Bible, Dead Sea scrolls, Faith in God, Faith in Jesus, Hebrews 11:1, Job 38:16, John 5:1-8, Manuscript fragments of scripture, Overwhelming proof for validity of Bible, Pool of Bethesda, Reliability of scripture on June 11, 2015| 9 Comments »

Research scientists rely on their five senses to collect and analyze data.

Some scientists argue that because we can’t see, touch, or hear God (out loud, in the hearing of others), he cannot exist.

So how can we embrace faith in our invisible God, and be sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1)?

First, the Christian faith is based on a huge body of proof. Our beginning point of discovery: God’s Word. And why should we believe the Bible? Because its reliability has been proven again and again by:

Hundreds of archaeological discoveries. One small example: Remember the Pool of Bethesda where Jesus healed a lame man (John 5:1-8)? According to John, the pool had five porticos, or colonnaded walkways. No such place was found until 1956, because it was buried–forty feet below ground level. But, sure enough, there are five porticos (1).

Also worth noting: Not one artifact has been found to disprove a fact or claim of the Bible (2).

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Thousands of manuscript fragments discovered, from ancient copies of the scriptures. The Dead Sea scrolls are one incredible example. Complete copies or portions of ALL books in the Hebrew Bible, our Old Testament, are included in these scrolls. The book of Esther is the only omission (3).

Scientific and medical discoveries that have corroborated scriptural truth. Again, one example of many: In the late 1960s, deep sea exploration discovered numerous springs of fresh water pouring out of the ocean floor. Job (38:16) spoke of the “springs of the sea” eons ago (4).

Hundreds of prophecies fulfilled with pinpoint accuracy. The Old Testament contains hundreds of prophecies. Of those, more than four dozen are about Jesus. Every one of them that refers to his earthly life was fulfilled.

Those are just a few categories of proof.

But we can also place our confidence in God because of experience. The Bible and two thousand years-plus of church history include countless stories of believers in God who faced hardships to be sure, but lived adventurous, fulfilling, and miraculous lives of faith.

To experience the same, we have to step out in faith, like:

Abraham, who left his home country at God’s command, with no idea of where he was going (Genesis 12:1).
Moses, who confronted Pharoah and ordered the powerful ruler to release God’s people from slavery (Exodus 5:1-5).
David, who stepped out onto a battlefield to fight a giant—alone (1 Samuel 17).
King Jehoshophat, who led Judah into battle against a vast army (2 Chronicles 20).
The centurion who asked Jesus to heal his beloved servant—from a distance. Jesus fulfilled his request and commended the officer for his great faith (Luke 7:1-10).

We have to step out like these more recent heroes, too:

George Muller (1805-1898), who could hardly provide for his own family, yet with great faith and not much else, founded five orphanages in Bristol, England, where ten thousand children were cared for.
Florence Young (1856-1940), a missionary to the Kanakas of the Solomon Islands. She and others helped the Kanaka believers minister to villages that practiced cannibalism. Thousands of people became Christians.
C. T. Studd (1860-1931), missionary to China, India, and then Africa. He inherited 25 million dollars ( in today’s economy) and gave it all away.
Betty Greene (1920-1997), who combined her passion for flying with her faith in God and helped to found Mission Aviation Fellowship.
Brother Andrew (1928- ), who smuggled Bibles into communist countries during the Cold War.

How were these biblical and historical heroes able to accomplish such feats? Was it because of courage and perseverance? No doubt, but the foundation underneath those traits was their faith in God.

They believed what they could not see. They were sure of God’s love and care. They were certain their final destiny was secure. Therefore, they confidently moved forward step by step as God opened the way. That is faith.

* * * * * * * * * *

Lord, I have said it many times: Whatever you want for my life is OK with me! Forgive me for wavering and fretting that perhaps your will might cause hardship. Shame on me! Help me to rest in you, Father. Since your love is steadfast and everlasting, and you have only my best interest at heart, I can confidently put my faith in you. Help me to be watchful and stand firm, a woman of strength, courage, and love.

(Psalm 116:7; Jeremiah 31:3; 1 Corinthians 16:13)

Notes:

bible-history.com
Grant Jeffrey, The Signature of God, p. 71.
deadseascrollsfoundation.com
Institute of Creation Research (icr.org)

(Photo and art credits: www.fda.gov; http://www.flickr.com; dss.collections.imj.org.il; http://www.newheartnewspirit.com; http://www.alittleperspective.com; http://www.georgemuller.org; http://www.etsy.com.)

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The Choice

Posted in Decision-Making, Encouragement, Faith, tagged God-ordained opportunities, Regretting opportunities missed on June 8, 2015| 18 Comments »

Just as Jennifer was about to take freshly washed sheets to the backyard clothesline, she heard a knock at the kitchen door. Through the curtain she recognized the silhouette of her friend from down the street, Sarah. In tow were her two little boys.

Not another interruption, Jennifer thought. Between the cleanup of spilled orange juice in the fridge and the talkative A/C repair man, I’m never going to get the laundry done and finish vacuuming before I have to pick up Josh at preschool. Jennifer’s to-do list was longer than usual, and with company coming for the weekend, there was a deadline, too. Today was the only day she didn’t have to be at the floral shop where she worked part-time.

Jennifer could have pretended she wasn’t home, but felt compelled to open the door. She was so glad she did. Sarah was crying, although trying to hold back in front of her boys.

“Come on out to the yard with me,” suggested Jennifer, as she hefted the laundry basket once more. “The boys can play on the swing set and we can talk.”

While the two women hung sheets, Sarah confessed that her husband, Rob, had become very angry that morning and hit her. Hard. Sarah desperately needed someone to talk to.

Oh, Lord. What if I hadn’t opened that door?” thought Jennifer.

* * * * * * * * * *

Amy stood in line at the grocery store with her two-year old son strapped into the child’s seat. Behind her was an older gentleman.

“That’s a cute little boy you’ve got there,” he said. “Too bad they can’t stay cute and little.”

Amy smiled. “I guess we just have to look for the positives of each stage as they grow.”

“Yeah, well, there’s not much positive in a grown son who’s become a religious fanatic,” he replied. “Always talking about Jesus.”

Amy was shocked speechless. What an odd comment to make to a stranger.

It was Amy’s turn to line up her groceries on the conveyor belt; the conversation stopped.

In the parking lot, no sooner had Amy loaded her groceries into the trunk, than that same gentleman came walking toward her. His car was directly across from her. It seemed too coincidental.

I need to say something to him, don’t I, Lord, Amy thought, to let him know that Jesus is not who he’s been led to believe. Help me speak your words to him! And calm these butterflies, please!

With Sam still strapped in the child’s seat, Amy walked her cart across the aisle. “Sir,” she began. “I just wanted you to know that I’m a believer in Jesus, too. He’s made a huge difference in my life, and I am very glad I said yes to him!”

The man actually smiled. “Thank you, young lady.”

Two cars turned into their aisle, one from each direction. Amy had to get her cart out of the way, to open up the parking space where she stood.

“Well, good-bye, and God bless you!” she called as she scurried across, already praying. Oh, Father. Did I say enough? Were those the words he needed to hear? Use this encounter to get him thinking. May he reconsider what his son has been trying to tell him.

* * * * * * * * * *

At the end of a Sunday morning worship service, Sylvia and Michelle saw Cindy walk down to the altar. Cindy had been attending for a few weeks, and had even joined the choir.

The two friends left their seats to join Cindy. Her hands were already wiping away tears; her shoulders shook.

“Is there anything specific we can pray with you about?” Sylvia asked softly. Cindy shook her head.

So Michelle began to thank God for his peace and comfort when we’re hurting, for his power to handle any situation, for his wisdom and guidance to deal with challenging decisions.

Cindy continued to cry uncontrollably.

Michelle stopped praying. She felt a nudging in her spirit to ask, “Cindy, do you remember the day when you invited Jesus to be a part of your life?” She shook her head, no.

And so Sylvia and Michelle joyfully introduced Cindy to the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, and Prince of Peace.

The crying stopped, and Cindy broke into a radiant smile.

* * * * * * * * * *

Each day we have the choice to embrace God-ordained opportunities. Opportunities like:

Inconvenient Interruptions
Coincidental Encounters
Whispered instructions

And no doubt your heart cries out as mine does: Lord, may I not miss a one!

Now, it’s confession time. These stories are based on actual events. Jennifer, Amy, and Michelle are really one person. Me.

Not that I have recognized or stepped out in faith in response to every opportunity God has provided. Far from. But as I recall times such as those described above, my resolve is strengthened.

I’m trying to remember: We will never regret embracing God-inspired opportunities; it’s the missed opportunities for which we will carry remorse.

Photo credits: www.pinterest.com; http://www.mprnews.org; http://www.istockphto.com.)

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God’s Glory, Our Joy

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Provision, God's Salvation, Hope, Jesus, Praise, Worship, tagged 1 Corinthians 2:9, 1 John 3:2, 2 Corinthians 4:6, God's Glory, Heaven, Reign with Jesus, Revelation 22:5, Revelation 3:21 on June 4, 2015| 12 Comments »

The exhibition of God’s glory

and the deepest joy of human souls

are one thing.

–Jonathan Edwards

(1703-1758, preacher, theologian, author)

Wooh—that’s a mouthful! I have to break that down into smaller bites.

God’s glory includes his splendor and majesty, infinite power and wisdom, creative genius and perfect engineering, absolute holiness and righteousness, and much more. God’s glory is, in part, the sum of his glorious attributes.

The exhibition of God’s glory is all around us in creation, and visible to all people (Isaiah 6:3, Psalm 97:6).

But more profound: God’s glory is made known to us in our hearts—to those who have asked Jesus to save us from the ultimate consequence of our sin, and to become Master of our destinies (2 Corinthians 4:6).

How incredible that we can experience God’s glory here and now, although in a limited way. And how wonderful that the deepest joy of humans souls is a result of knowing him now—not just when we get to heaven.

Someday, though, we will witness the full revelation of his splendor, and that of his Son, Jesus. It’s beyond our wildest imaginings (1 Corinthians 2:9).

Scripture does include a few glimpses, however. We see his:

Golden splendor and awesome majesty (Job 37:22)
Garment of light, wrapped around himself (Psalm 104:2a)
Clouds surrounding the throne (Daniel 7:13)
Belt of gold and gleaming, flaming eyes (Daniel 10:5-6)
Long robe with a golden sash across his chest, white hair, and blazing eyes (Revelation 1:13-16)

Charles Spurgeon eloquently expressed the glory of Jesus in a sermon, over 150 years ago. He proclaimed Christ…

“…Radiant with splendor,

effulgent with light,

clothed with rainbows,

girded with clouds,

wrapped in lightning,

crowned with stars,

the sun beneath his feet.”

Doesn’t that give you holy goosebumps?

Yet there is more.

When he appears, we shall be like him (2 Thessalonians 2:14; 1 John 3:2).

Can you imagine? We will share in the radiant splendor of our Savior. As if that wasn’t enough, we’ll finally be transformed into the holy and perfect beings we have always wanted to be.

And as we share in the glory of Jesus, we will enjoy incredible blessings that God has prepared. The following scriptures offer us tantalizing samples—to whet our appetites for what is to come:

There will be no need for sunlight; God will be our everlasting light. There will also be no more sorrow (Isaiah 60:19-20).
We will see Jesus face to face and finally have full understanding of all things (1 Corinthians 13:12-13).
We will bear the likeness of Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:49).
We will reign with Jesus forever (Revelation 3:21; 22:5).
There will be no night and no impurity (Revelation 21:23-27).

Now, there are those who worry that heaven will involve a lot of cloud-sitting and harp-playing. Well, yes, there are clouds and harps. (I, for one, am very glad for the harps–it’s my favorite instrument. And, I have to admit, there are some days when a bit of cloud-sitting and harp-playing sounds rather appealing!)

However, I agree with theologian, Albert Barnes. “To reign with Jesus” means we will share in Christ’s dominion of the universe, administering the affairs of all the worlds.” That sounds exciting and fulfilling (but mind-boggling) to me!

Such glimpses of our glorious future really are too much for my mind to absorb. But, oh how thankful I am that God has tucked them into his Word, to fill our hearts with expectation and hope.

Also worth contemplating is the eternal expanse of time we’ll enjoy God’s majesty and splendor. According to John Piper, heaven’s joys will actually increase as we discover more and more of God’s glory. “The end of increased pleasure in God will never come” (God’s Passion for His Glory, p. 37).

Then “the exhibition of God’s glory and the deepest joy of human souls” will indeed be one perfect, sublime, eternal thing.

* * * * * * * * * *

Lord God of heaven and earth, my heart shouts praise in honor of your glory! I praise you for being a holy God, completely separate from all else in the universe. No one is your equal in power, wisdom, creativity, splendor, or love. No one else is perfect in all he does. Thank you for your Word, where we can glimpse your glory and your plans–for our glorious and joyous future with you.

(Photo & art credits: www.beforethebeginning.net; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.honestytalk.wordpress.com; http://www.verseaday.com.)

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The Right Word at the Right Time

What Contributes to Greatness

YOU Are the Apple of God’s Eye

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Believing What We Do Not See

The Choice

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