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Archive for the ‘God’s Faithfulness’ Category

Patience, Persistence, and Promise

Posted in Excellence, Faith, God's Delight, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, Jesus, Obedience, Praise, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on April 2, 2026| 28 Comments »

The Agony in the Garden, by Francesco Trevisani, 1740

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THANK YOU!

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

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

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

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

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

May I be an enthusiastic participant to the end!

 

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

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

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

[4] John 14:15

[5] Hebrews 12:2

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

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

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

[9] Philippians 2:13

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

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

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The Favor of God

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Promises, God's Provision, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged , , , , , , , , , on March 19, 2026| 51 Comments »

(An addendum to one of the stories in last week’s post:)

“John just called,” Steve informed me.  “He and his wife Peg will be in town on business this weekend, and want to visit the church on Sunday. What would you think of inviting them for dinner afterwards?”

‘Let me check with Mom—‘see if she can help,” I responded. “It would be nice to get acquainted with them ahead of our move.”

John served as chairman of the staff-parish relations committee for the new church Steve had been appointed to. In seven weeks we’d be moving from west coast to east coast in Florida, as determined a couple of months previously by those in charge. 

The visit in late April was arranged and dinner planned. My dear mother helped with preparations, since we were already stretched quite thin with Steve’s church responsibilities, mine as an elementary teacher, our three kids, and packing already underway.

As some of you know, we lived in parsonages during Steve’s ministry. Until 2010 or so, these clergy-homes were also supposed to be furnished.

At the time of this move we lived in a lovely middle-class home that fit the current guidelines for parsonages.

This house (over 2000 square feet), included four bedrooms, and even a study. It leant itself well to holding meetings in the living room while the children could be in a separate family room.

Three years previously the church had purchased the house and some new furniture. This is the home that John and Peg saw, as we enjoyed getting acquainted with them.

John would tell us later he was struck by the contrast between our current home and the one we’d be moving into—with approximately 1200 square feet of living space and long-outdated furniture. 

Storage would be another problem, given the insufficient kitchen cabinets, small closets, the detached garage (where bugs and critters could create havoc), no attic, and of course no basement in Florida.

John knew the time had come to provide their pastor a home similar to what other professionals with three-year advanced degrees own, that met the scripture-directive of “double honor for those preaching and teaching” (1 Timothy 5:17).

But John had to wait for the committee to meet and funding to be appropriated.

Soon after John’s and Peg’s visit, Steve and I traveled across-state to tour their church and parsonage. That’s when we realized some of the challenges to come—in the deficient housing provided and in the church situation.

On the way home, we heard Jeremiah 29:11 quoted on the radio:  

Days later, a devotional suggested repeating “all the promises from God’s Word you can remember.” I determined to write in my journal as many as I could find that fit our circumstances. including:

I knew God would enable the five of us to thrive in the small house, or he’d provide another home. But I struggled with “what-ifs.”

Meanwhile, John rallied the staff-parish committee; they voted “yes” for a new parsonage. A week later, the administrative board passed a resolution to purchase a four-bedroom house and allocate funds for some new furniture.

Still to come: a church-wide vote, with the district superintendent presiding.

Of course, a few hiccups occurred. After one disappointment, I wrote: “We still have our promises from our never-failing God. . . I put my trust in You, Lord, by an act of my will, not by what I see happening! 

“You know our needs, you know what’s best for this church. Guide us into Your plan in Your timing, and give us wisdom and grace to accept whatever You have for us. We do want what you want!”

And I copied more scripture-promises.

In mid-June, the move into the small house went smoothly.

A week later the church-wide conference voted by a wide margin to relocate their parsonage. 

Mid-July our daughter and I flew to Austin, Texas to meet my newborn nephew. Steve called one evening to say a suitable house had been found, similar to our previous home but a bit smaller at 1800 square feet. The kids would love the pool. 

I trusted Steve’s appraisal, and agreed the church should make an offer.

As our children started school, we were settling into our new home—just two blocks down the street.

Image credits: http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.canva.com (3).

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Dust on the Balance Scale

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, Joy, Perseverance, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on March 5, 2026| 33 Comments »

Many of us memorized 1 Peter 5:7 as children:

Did you ever wonder how we cast our anxiety?

After all, our concerns aren’t jammed into heavy backpacks we can physically heave onto God’s back. We’re talking in the abstract–about nagging problems, physical ailments, troubling situations.

And in spite of God’s capacity and willingness to be our Burden-Bearer (Psalm 68:19), we find anxiety and fear niggling among our thoughts just the same. It’s difficult to get rid of them.

We know gratitude and praise to God can be effective burden-lifters, but worries can linger on the periphery, waiting for the first opportunity to return. Is that a sign of failure?

Here’s what I’ve learned; maybe you have too.

First, ‘remember learning math facts in school?

Mastery required practice because that’s how God made our brains to work. We learn by making neural connections, called synapses. For most of us, it takes a good deal of repetition for synapse-connections to become hard-wired (1).

Second, it makes sense that the advanced skill of controlling our thinking is also going to require practice. It’s a sign of wisdom to keep turning our minds back to God–a hundred times a day if necessary.

Third, I also know this: God appreciates progress; he doesn’t withhold his delight in us until we’re perfect. 

Consider God’s message through the prophet Zechariah: 

So, when a concern wants front-and-center attention in our minds, let’s implement:

Strategy #1: Keep turning the mind to gratitude and praise.

Matthew Henry, the great Bible commentator of the 1600s had his wallet stolen one day. But instead of fretting about it, he wrote this in his journal:

“I thank Thee first because I was never robbed before; second because although they took my purse they did not take my life; third, because although they took my all, it was not much; and fourth because it was I who was robbed, and not I who robbed.”

Henry’s reasons for gratitude surely helped to shift the burden of anxiety from his own shoulders to the formidable shoulders of God. Just reading his entry lifts my spirit. 

Strategy #2: Affirm that God can turn burdens into blessings.  

God achieves purpose, even in our suffering. One purpose: to expand the joy in our lives (James 1:2).

For twenty-six years I taught elementary school. One difficult year, the problems and resulting tension intensified. And yet, as I got in the car each morning, I strongly sensed God’s presence with me, as if he sat in the passenger seat! 

His presence gave me joy–to the point of happy tears sometimes–while also offering reassurance and strength. Without the increased stress, I would not have experienced that singular blessedness.

Strategy #3:  Remember who God is.

For God to be our Burden-Bearer, we have to trust him, and trust grows as we remember:     

He’s our Father of compassion, our ever-present help in trouble, our King of power and glory, our loving and faithful God, our strong deliverer, and more (3). He can handle any load of trouble.

In fact, what seems to us a crushing burden is as inconsequential to him as a speck of dust on a balance scale (4).

*     *     *     *     *     *     * 

Lord, help me remember: You are the one with the answer to every question, the solution to every problem, and the wisdom for every decision (5). To worry is to forget Who’s in charge. May I joyfully rest in you.   

Notes:

  1. https://earlychildhood.qld.gov.au/early-years/early-learning-at-home/read-and-count/the-power-of-repetition
  2. Karol Ladd, Thrive, Don’t Simply Survive, 54-55.
  3. Psalm 103:13; 46:1;1 Chronicles 29:11; Psalm 57:10; 18:2.
  4. Based on a Charles Spurgeon quote from Morning by Morning, 8.
  5. Kay Arthur, His Imprint, My Expression, 36.

Image credits: dailyverses.net; http://www.flickr.com (Jimmie Quick); http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.heartlight.org.

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Mother from Far Away

Posted in Courage, Dreams, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, God-Given Abilities, Heroes of the Faith, Perseverance, Service, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on February 26, 2026| 33 Comments »

     

Maria (pronounced Ma-RYE-ah) Fearing and three friends stood at the ship’s rail, eager to see the coastline of their destination: Africa. For twelve days since leaving New York they’d waited not-so-patiently for this moment. Now it was almost upon them.

Maria remembered when missionary work in Africa first caught her interest. She’d been a teenage house slave and nanny for the youngest six children of the Winston family, on their plantation near Gainesville, Alabama. 

At bedtime, Mrs. Winston read Bible stories to her children as well as tales of missionaries like David Livingstone. How wonderful, thought Maria, to share about Jesus with people who’ve never heard of him before.

Slavery ended in 1865; Maria was twenty-seven. Becoming a missionary was still out of the question; she had no education. But Maria found employment in Gainesville as a live-in maid, grateful to God for the skills she’d learned in the Winston household. 

Five years later, Maria heard about a school founded by two former slaves and for former slaves, Talladega College, which included grades 1-12 as well as college courses.

Talledega College

Students could work on campus and pay their way. Maria traveled the 150 miles to Talladega by walking and catching rides.

She began her schooling with the youngest children. They teased at first—a grown woman with six-year-olds! But Maria played with them at recess and earned their affection. 

While at Talladega, Maria met Lucy Gantt and Lilian Thomas. Though much younger than Maria, the three women became close friends.

Setting her mind toward success, Maria made quick progress toward completing ninth grade. That qualified her to teach in a rural school for the children of former slaves.

Perhaps her classroom looked similar to this one.

She soon achieved another goal, purchasing a small home. Sometime later Talladega invited Maria to return and serve as assistant matron. She accepted.

In 1894 William Shepherd came to the school to tell about his missionary work in the Congo (now Zaire).

Maria remembered Mrs. Winston’s stories and how she’d dreamed of becoming a missionary. When William invited others to join him, Maria volunteered.

However, her interview with the Presbyterian mission board did not go well. She was fifty-six years old, and though perfectly healthy, Maria appeared frail at just five feet tall and ninety pounds. 

“We’re very sorry, Miss Fearing, but we cannot support you,” they declared.

Maria didn’t acquiesce. She met with a church leader, asking him to vouch for her; friends also interceded on her behalf. With their recommendations, the board relented, if she’d pay her own way. 

Maria thanked God he’d inspired her to buy a home, which she happily sold, and with a $100 donation from Telladega women, arranged for the journey. 

Now it was June 1894, and she found herself standing next to her two friends from Talledega, Lucy and Lilian, who’d also volunteered. Lucy had since married the missionary William Shepherd, and together the foursome watched the coastline of Africa come into view. 

However, their journey was not over. They still faced the arduous trek to the mission station, over land and down rivers for 600 miles or so, and taking another six weeks. 

Finally they arrived at the Luebo Mission. Maria began to help the couple in charge however she could, while focused on learning the language. She became quite proficient in just one year’s time.

Also at the one-year mark, the mission board decided to pay her at half rate, then full salary after two years. 

Maria and Lilian cared for forty-four children who’d been orphaned or rescued from the slave trade. They called Maria Mama Wa Mputu, Mother from Far Away.

Perhaps the Luebo school looked similar to this one in Malawi, Africa, 1905.

She and Lillian taught the children household skills, preparing them for domestic employment when they left the mission. But they also taught reading, writing, arithmetic, and Bible knowledge.

All her life God had been preparing Maria for this position, beginning with training in the Winston home, her time as a nanny, and then a teacher. 

The school grew. Some of the new students were those Maria herself purchased out of the slave trade from her meager salary and with funds sent by friends from Talladega. By 1903, 203 students lived under their care—with the help of more teachers. 

Maria also contributed to the translation of the Bible, the catechism, and a number of hymns into the local dialect.

In 1915, at age 77, Maria traveled to America for minor surgery, but when she prepared to return to Africa, the mission board said no, she was too old. 

Maria must have been heartbroken, yet she continued to serve, establishing a Congolese art exhibit, sending the proceeds to the mission at Luebo, and teaching Sunday School until age 93.

After touching countless lives with the grace of Jesus, Maria Fearing died at age 99. 

In the year 2000, she was posthumously inducted into the Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame.

SOURCES:

Diana Lynn Severance, Her-Story, 342. 

https://ca.thegospelcoalition.org/columns/femmes-scriptura/meet-maria-fearing-african-american-missionary-to-congo/

https://encyclopediaofalabama.org/article/maria-fearing/

https://faithfullymagazine.com/maria-fearing-remember/https://placefortruth.org/maria-fearing-and-the-mission-to-the-congo/

Lorelei Siemens, “Maria Fearing: From Slavery to Missionary in Africa,” http://www.youtube.com, 2-26-25.

https://placefortruth.org/maria-fearing-and-the-mission-to-the-congo/

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Bible Hugs

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged , , , on February 19, 2026| 55 Comments »

Not long ago I meant to type into the search box, biblehub.com, a site I visit frequently for research. (If you’ve not visited there, it’s well worth exploring.) But this time, instead of hub I typed hug.

Bible hug.

After a slight snicker, I thought, Wait—scripture does offer hugs-of-sorts, in the form of encouragement, comfort, and assurance—providing occasions when I can almost feel God’s embrace.

Sometimes those hugs have come in preparation for what’s to come, sometimes in the midst of pain or trouble, and other times after the fact.

For example, a Bible hug in preparation for what was to come:

Steve and I were driving home after a visit to the next church (three hours away) where he’d been assigned to serve as pastor, beginning in six weeks. Melancholy enveloped me.

Three times in eleven years, the powers-that-be had chosen to move us, although neither we nor the current church had requested it. This was the hardest part of being a pastor’s family in our denomination.

Suddenly, on the Christian radio station we were listening to, the host read a scripture I’d surely heard before, but it took on fresh significance that day:

I clung to that promise over the next weeks of packing, taking care of the million-and-one details a move requires, and saying painful good-byes.

And look what God did at our new church:

He prospered us in new relationships, grew our faith (especially concerning our finances and those of the church), and blessed us as we watched him grow this community of believers—in number, spiritual maturity, and outreach—for thirteen years.

*       *       *

A Bible hug in the midst of pain: 

Spring semester my freshman year of college, I received news that a friend back home had died, the result of a car accident. She’d been in a coma for over a week.

It seemed impossible. So many people had been praying for Shelly. Why did God say “No?”

She was only eighteen, as smart as they come, and scheduled to go to Spain as a short-term missionary that coming summer. Shelly was also an accomplished pianist, and had just won second place in a talent competition.

Why didn’t God intervene for such an outstanding young woman? My faith was beginning to falter.

I shut myself in the dormitory broom closet and searched my Bible for an answer. It wasn’t long before I came across these verses:

Verse 36 in the New Living Translation says, “Everything comes from him . . . and is intended for his glory.” 

That includes the death of my young friend. My place is not to beg for answers that I likely wouldn’t understand or accept anyway. My place is to trust.

*       *       *

A Bible hug that provided closure:

Years ago Steve worked under the direction of a pastor whose words and actions could be downright unkind. We’ll call him George. 

The situation intensified when, behind the scenes and unbeknownst to us, George engineered a change of position for Steve—elsewhere in the state–while we were on vacation. I was pregnant at the time, due just one month prior to the move.

God taught me much during that time, including the wisdom of James 1:2-4:

The next few months provided many opportunities to practice perseverance as we endured continued difficulty with George.

We also developed self-control, not talking to people in the church about what he had done (except with a few mature confidantes), in order not to cause strife or division.

I learned that love is not a feeling, it’s an action. With much prayer, God gave me grace to be genial with George. He also helped me understand that much of his untoward behavior came from insecurity.

After the fact, I could count it all joy that we’d faced such trials. I’m a better person for the lessons learned in self-discipline, integrity, and perseverance.

Years later we had occasion to meet George again. God had obviously been at work in his life; he was a changed man.

*       *       *

Of course, these are just a few of the Bible hugs received from God over the years. Perhaps we’ll revisit this topic again in the future.

In the meantime, please share in the comment section below a Bible hug you’ve received. I’d love to read your stories; no doubt others would too!

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Hey Self! Listen Up!

Posted in Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Power, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , on February 5, 2026| 36 Comments »

I wonder if your inner voice ever speaks to you like this:

  • “Well, you stuck your foot in your mouth again. Why don’t you think before you speak?”
  • “There’s no way you’re going to finish that project on time.”
  • “Go ahead! Tell her about that award you just won. She’ll be so impressed.”
  • “Why is he always so critical? I should give him a piece of my mind!”
  • “You have every right to be upset. How rude can a person be?”

At one time or other, similar thoughts have crept into my mind. If allowed to fester, my sense of well-being is compromised.

What I need from time to time is a pep talk from my positive voice to counter the negativity. Maybe you do too.

I can just hear that voice calling for my attention—“Hey Self! Listen Up!”—in preparation to take my thoughts in a new direction.

And what might that new direction include?

Listed below are common default reactions we want to avoid, followed by truths to counter them. For each I’ve included (what I hope is) an insightful quote, and a response from that inner voice residing in my head.

I wonder if these responses might resemble yours?

Anxiety

“Anxiety is rooted in a failure to trust God”—Unknown (1). 

Ouch. Did you hear that, Self? Let’s destroy those weeds of worry with affirmations of truth about God!

Psalm 36:5-6

Inadequacy

“Never mind your weakness; it is the very thing that qualifies you. Never mind your feelings of inadequacy; it is God’s work, not yours. Simply make yourself available, and let go of any need to impress others, or prove yourself worthy, or achieve ‘success.’ What matters is that God has chosen you and that God claims you as God’s own”—Brother David Vryhof.

Keep reminding yourself—It is God’s work, not yours. Just stay available, Self, in close connection with him.

Discouragement

“Every step toward Christ kills a doubt. Every thought, word, and deed for Him carries you away from discouragement”—Theodore L. Cuyler.

Okay, Self. Remember: Your King Jesus is Faithful and True, the great Shepherd of his sheep, the head over every authority and power, the Righteous One, and more. AND, this Lord of lords is at work for your benefit (2)!

Helplessness

“While it looks like things are out of control, behind the scenes there is a God who hasn’t surrendered his authority”—A. W. Tozer.

‘See Self? You aren’t helpless. God Almighty is on your side (3)!

Self-Pity

“Our troubles have always brought us blessings, and they always will. They are the black chariots of bright grace”—Charles Spurgeon.

Don’t dwell on the dark distressors, Self. Look for the beams of bright grace.

Perfectionism:

“A flawed rose still smells sweet”—Unknown.

So, Self: pour your energy into diffusing the fragrance of Christ (4)!

Pride:

“God abhors those people worst who adore themselves most”—William Seckler (5). 

That knowledge alone, Self, ought to help you nip prideful thoughts in the bud!

Wrong Motives:

“I know when I’m doing the right thing for the wrong reason, because that’s when I want credit for it. When I’m doing the right thing with the right heart, I’m content my Father knows and nobody else. That’s enough for me. Because He’s enough”—Denise J. Hughes (6).

Be most mindful of your Audience of One, Self, just as Big Daddy Weave sang about years ago (7).

Anger (Frustration, Resentment):

“Most often, you should leave your anger . . .at the feet of Jesus and allow him to act in your behalf” (8).

Wise advice, don’t you think, Self?

And there you have it: a positive pep talk of wisdom to counter nine undesirable emotions that vie for soul-space.

Now let’s get out there and seize the every day with positivity, purpose, trust, and expectation!

Notes:

  1. God’s Little Lessons on Life, no author given, 19.
  2. Revelation 19:11; Hebrews 13:20-21; Colossians 2:10; 1 John 2:1; Philippians 2:13; Romans 8:28
  3. Romans 8:31
  4. 2 Corinthians 2:14-15
  5. Proverbs 8:13
  6. Deeper Waters, 115.
  7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKS-c93bfbM&list=RDeKS-c93bfbM&start_radio=1
  8. The Women’s Study Bible, Thomas Nelson, 957.

Image credits: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net (Gerd Altmann); http://www.publicdomainpictures.net (George Hodan); http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net (2); http://www.canva.com.

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A New Soul

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on January 1, 2026| 43 Comments »

A new soul. I like the sound of that, don’t you? In my imagination I see a freshening of my attitudes, improved motivations, and increased spiritual strength.

But where do I start in order to have a new soul?

No doubt, a new soul begins with repentance—expressing to God my sorrow for wrongdoing and availing myself of his help to change. Just as King David prayed, I can ask God to:

Notice that David asked God to create in him a pure heart. David didn’t promise to clean up his act on his own. Only God could make David’s heart new and pure. The same goes for me. All I can do is submit myself to his transforming power and follow his lead.

That pure heart David asked for is a clear conscience. And with the release from guilt came a rush of joy and the restoration of sweet peace with God. Doesn’t that sound wonderful?

“No one is happier than the one who has repented of wrong” (Max Lucado).

A new soul involves renewal of the mind.

romans12_2

Or, put another way:

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world,

but let God transform you into a new person

by changing the way you think.

Then you will learn to know God’s will for you,

which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

–Romans 12:2, NLT (emphasis added)

Once the negative influences of sin have been removed, I need to fill my mind with excellent, praiseworthy contemplations.

Why waste my thoughts and allow them to wander on worthless topics or circle around pointless worries? Instead, I want to set my mind on the positive, especially on God himself.

A renewed mind is not problem-focused; it is Person-focused.

A new soul requires day-by-day rejuvenation.

“We do not lose heart.

Though outwardly we are wasting away,

yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”

–2 Corinthians 4:16 (emphasis added)

God has established certain laws by which our world is governed. Gravity is one example. The law of entropy is another. It states that all elements of the universe tend to disintegrate over time. Plants and animals die and decay, iron rusts, rock erodes.

Our souls tend to disintegrate over time, too, when left unattended:

  • Worry and fear wreak havoc
  • Self-centeredness creates an appetite for entertainment, possessions, and recognition—appetites that are never satiated
  • Foolishness reigns because wisdom is ignored
  • Rationalizations replace honest evaluations
  • Uncontrolled behaviors harm relationships

But when we avail ourselves of God’s influence day-by-day and step-by-step, the law of entropy has no effect on our souls.

The Amplified Version expands the meaning:

The steps of a [good and righteous] man

are directed and established by the Lord,

and He delights in his way [and blesses his path].

–Psalm 37:23 AMP

Consider the significance of these key words:

Steps – Even spiritual achievement rarely happens in an instant. God values slow and steady progress

Directed – He isn’t just interested in the details of our lives; he’s lovingly engineering them

Established – There is always design and strategy in God’s endeavors, even if we only occasionally perceive it

Delights – God is pleased with those who follow the path he has thoughtfully and wisely set

Blesses – God lovingly bestows such gifts as peace, joy, hope, and satisfaction in life

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Holy Creator of new souls, as I stand on the brink of a new year, I do confess my failings to you. Purify my heart; show me how to refine my motivations behind right actions.

Thank you for your gentle nudges to turn my mind toward you, and your loving attention upon every step of my life. I praise you that continual contact with you results in a soul–a life–that is continually refreshed and made new!

Image credits:  www.canva.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com (2).

(Revised and reblogged from 1-4-2016, while we enjoy one more day of out-of-town family.)

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Life and Scripture Entwined

Posted in Blessings, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, Joy, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on December 18, 2025| 38 Comments »

This question popped into my head recently:

If we connected a scripture verse to one blessed event for each month of 2025, what might we include?

Here’s a portion of the Ruegg list:

JANUARY—

Upon leaving worship one Sunday, we were greeted by heavy snowfall. The predominately pure-white scene provided a reminder that “Great is our Lord and mighty in power . . . He spreads his snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes” (Psalm 147:5a, 16 NIV).

MARCH—

Our twelve-year-old granddaughter and her parents faced the decision of which school she should attend for grades 7-12.

Then, they just happened to sit in church near a family whose son attends one of the schools on their list, and the subject just happened to come up during the meet-and-greet time.

The positive conversation helped make clear God’s choice, illustrating once again, he does indeed show us which path to take (Proverbs 3:6 NLT).

APRIL—

A memorable Easter feast at our son’s and D-I-L’s home. Family and friends contributed parts of the meal, served in courses. In between each we enjoyed readings, prayers, and song–dining and fellowshipping for four hours!

Perhaps we followed—in part—the example of the early church: “They devoted themselves to . . . fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and prayers” (Acts 2:42 CSB).

JUNE—

Our oldest granddaughter (17) participated in a week-long science program at the University of Cincinnati. She and our daughter stayed with us. S. loved the course; H. and I enjoyed quality mother/daughter time.

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him” (Psalm 127:3).

JULY—

What a delightful morning with the Hippos! (That’s the Toddler 2 class at church.) The best part: Elliott wanted to be held and Luca took my hand on the way back from the playground. “No doubt about it: children are a gift from the Lord” (Psalm 127:3 CEB)—even if they belong to others!

The joy on this woman’s face expresses mine

AUGUST—

The visit of old friends produced much reminiscing, laughter, and heart-to-heart conversation. “Sweet friendship refreshes the soul” (Proverbs 27:9 MSG).

SEPTEMBER—

A blog post this month lacked a good conclusion, and then the morning of posting an idea popped into my brain. I knew exactly where it came from. “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17a), including ideas!

OCTOBER—

Times spent with our granddaughters provide some of our best blessings: sleepovers, movie nights, playing games, crafting, and more.

“Grandchildren are the pride and joy of old age” (Proverbs 17:6 ERV).

NOVEMBER—

Multiple errands one week allowed me to enjoy numerous stellar vistas of the fall foliage. Surely autumn is the time when “the forest sings for joy before the Lord” (1 Chronicles 16:33) most passionately!

And to sum up the whole year:

“How abundant are the good things God has stored up for those who fear him” (Psalm 34:19)! We give thanks to him with all our hearts (Psalm 9:1a).

[No doubt some of you recognized this post—it’s the Ruegg Report for 2025, inserted in our Christmas cards. Writing once and “publishing” twice helped streamline the pre-Christmas to-do list. I knew you’d understand!]

Image credits: http://www.openclipart.org; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.freerangestock.com; http://www.pexels.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org.

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A Thanksgiving Prayer

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, Meditation, Prayer, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on November 27, 2025| 40 Comments »

On this cloud-shrouded, Thanksgiving morning,

I pause in the candlelight to thank and praise You, O Lord–

for family and friends, food and clothing,

a cozy home and delightful blessings

we never even thought to ask for.

These are benevolences we see, touch, and hear.

One blessing we never thought to ask for: a trip to Israel in 1994, travel and lodging expenses paid for.

But I also want to thank you for those gifts

that only the senses of the heart can perceive—

blessings that include your eternal faithfulness,

as expansive and enduring as the skies,

and your loving devotion, as measureless as

the far reaches of the cosmos.

I thank you for your alert attentiveness,

keeping watch over me as I come and go,

for your abundant goodness which you store up

for those who fear you and take refuge in you,

for your wisdom that knows what to accomplish and when,

what to give and what to withhold.

I thank you for your compassionate mercy

that offers a fresh start each day,

your transforming grace that takes the sand of troubles

and creates pearls of lustrous steadfastness and stability.

I praise you for your strength that “turns my mush into might.”

When I’m weary in spirit, you prop me up and propel me forward.

 I thank you for your Word that instructs in the ways of abundant living,

guiding me along the right path as I internalize your truths.

I thank you for its encouragement when my spirit falters,

providing hope through the promises that cannot fail

and in the knowledge of who you are, our holy and perfect Father.

Your Word is “an anchor of truth in a sea of lies.”

“Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to you O God, for ever and ever. Amen” (Revelation 7:12)!

* * * * *

Now it’s your turn! What would you add to this gratitude list that specifically celebrates God? Add your praise in the comment section below!

Scriptures and other sources:

  • Verse 2: Psalm 36:5; 108:4
  • Verse 3: Psalm 121:8 NLT; 31:19; Proverbs 2:6
  • Verse 4: Lamentations 3:22-23; Romans 5:3-5; Anita Donihue, When I’m in His Presence, 52; Isaiah 40:29-31

Image credits: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net (Sheila Brown); http://www.commonswikipedia.org (Edmund Nigel Gail); http://www.canva.com; http://www.dailyverses.net (2); commonswikipedia.org (Marcus Bengtsson).

Sign up below for the monthly newsletter that includes a THANK YOU GIFT: Thirty encouraging quotes to inspire your own spirit and to share with others.

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I’m So Glad You’re in My Life

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Delight, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on November 6, 2025| 41 Comments »

(What follows are impressions from God one recent morning):

Yesterday, Nancy, you started singing that praise chorus from the ‘90s, “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High.” One line exclaims, “I’m so glad you’re in my life.” Take to heart the truth that I’m glad you’re in MY life too!

Each of my children is one-of-a kind, specially created with a unique set of traits, talents, and strengths. I already loved you, even before you were born, taking great care to plan out your days and write them in My book.

You’ve sometimes wondered what I was up to as those plans have unfolded—plans that involved challenge, trouble, and pain.

But as a parent yourself, you know that love must include discipline. I’ve used the difficulties you’ve faced in the development of your character and the growth of your spiritual maturity [1].

Keep in mind also that I designed you with the purpose of participation in my divine activity [2]. That activity sometimes includes adversity in order to provide the benefit of example and encouragement for others.

Once you get to heaven you’ll see how some of your most challenging experiences, most mundane moments, and most thankless efforts, have created impact under My orchestration. Be prepared; you’re going to be amazed! 

Remember too that all through the years I’ve tenderly led you along like a good shepherd, providing for you, guiding you, and blessing you with good things. Your “God Is Faithful” notebook contains forty years worth of proof [3].

I’ve also related to you as a devoted father, always regarding you with compassion and taking into consideration how weak you are. How well I know that you are mere dust [4]!

But every step of faith you take and every effort toward obedience you make bring me pleasure. I delight to see your progress as you grow more and more like Christ [5].

Never forget:

  • You are precious in My sight, like an expensive pearl [6]
  • You are highly valued as a treasured possession, proven by the price I paid for your redemption, the death of My Son in your place [7]
  • You are a vital part of My rich and glorious inheritance [8]

Daily I lavish My love upon you [9]. Stay alert to my blessings, and let gratitude do its work to magnify the delight of each gift. Then thankfulness will provide a continual flow of joy in your heart.

And remember, My steadfast love for you will never wane, My kindness to you will never end, My purpose for you will never expire [10].

Be mindful of these truths, Dear One, that prove I AM so very glad you’re in my life!

(Keep scrolling, please–important news below!)

[2] James 1:2-4

[2] Ephesians 2:10

[3] Psalm 23; see the post “What’s an Ebenezer?” for a few examples from that notebook.

[4] Psalm 103:14

[5] 2 Corinthians 3:18; see also the post “God’s Pleasure in Progress.”

[6] Isaiah 43:4; Matthew 13:45-46

[7] Luke 12:6-7; Exodus 19:5; 1 John 4:9-11

[8] Ephesians 1:18 NLT

[9] 1 John 1:3a

[10] Jeremiah 31:3; Isaiah 54:10; Philippians 1:6

Images credits: http://www.canva.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.canva.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com; http://www.freerangestock.com

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter! Included you’ll find a NEW GIFT FOR YOU–a “thank you” to faithful readers and newly-subscribed friends alike: Thirty encouraging quotes to inspire your own spirit and to share with others. I pray they provide uplift.

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