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Archive for the ‘God’s Faithfulness’ Category

Restore, Refresh, Renew

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Begin this moment, I pray.

Restore my eyes, to see more clearly.

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

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

Restore my mind to think Christ-honoring thoughts.

Refresh my heart to align my desires with yours.

Renew my spirit to navigate this day with your strength.

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

 

[1] Psalm 51:10b

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

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

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

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

[6] 2 Corinthians 3:18

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

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

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Our God of Abundant Supply

Posted in Courage, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Power, God's Provision, Heroes of the Faith, Perseverance, Seeking God, Service, Success, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on August 28, 2025| 42 Comments »

Joy Ridderhof pulled the blankets around her head to warm her shivering body, knowing she’d soon be throwing them off as sweat soaked her nightgown.

Joy had succumbed to malaria before, but this episode wouldn’t subside. As a result, she’d had to leave the people she’d grown to love in Honduras and return home to Los Angeles. The year: 1937.

Her doctors weren’t sure why she didn’t improve. Added to her discomfort was their discouragement: “You mustn’t go back to Honduras, Joy.”

A mountain village of Honduras , 2008

The thirty-four-year-old had served as a missionary in a remote, mountain village for five years. In spite of hardship, illness, and even threats on her life, she’d loved her time there, and many Hondurans had come to know Christ.

Now it appeared that challenging yet satisfying life-chapter was over. Joy faced the possibility of being an invalid the rest of her life—or at least a semi-invalid.

One day as Joy lay in bed, a wonderful idea occurred to her. The gramophones many villages owned could be put to good use if she made records of stories and songs about Jesus. As far as she knew, no such records existed in Spanish.

But how could she implement such a plan? Joy began to pray and asked others to join her.

Slowly, her health improved. And then, she happened to be introduced to a missionary returned from Central America who’d built a recording studio in his home. She shared her idea, and he became enthused about such a project.

Joy wrote the scripts and arranged for singers and their accompaniment. She herself read the stories.

The first record was produced on December 31, 1938. Joy sent them to various locations in Central America. Now people who couldn’t read would hear about Christ in their own language.

But each record cost fifty cents to produce and Joy had no income. The Great Depression meant resources were tight everywhere. Joy prayed for God’s provision. She believed what the great missionary Hudson Taylor had said [1]:

And supply God did.

In May 1939, Joy established Spanish Gospel Recordings.

Missionaries in Mexico heard about Joy’s work and asked for records in another language. Of course, finding native speakers in L. A. for an indigenous Mexican-Indian language would be nearly impossible.

So Joy and her college friend Ann Sherwood left for Mexico and Central America in 1944, a trip made possible by a doctor who loaned them a car and provided gas ration coupons.

Once they arrived in Mexico, a man invited them to use his new recording studio. The women spent ten months producing records in thirty-five languages, then returned to the States, satisfied their task was complete.

But God had more in store.

Missionaries to the Navajo Indians in Arizona asked for recordings; Joy found native speakers to translate and record scripts for them [2].

Next came a call from Alaska. The two women drove from L.A. to Alaska, equipped with one of the first tape recorders produced in America. While there, someone mentioned that such records would be helpful in the Philippines.

“Oh no!” Joy laughed. “Now we’ve got to go to there!”

Joy and Ann spent one year in the Philippine Islands, producing records in ninety-two languages [3].

By 1955, the two women and others had travelled around the world. Records were being sent to more than one hundred countries [4], prepared on top-of-the-line recorders that God supplied.

He also provided workers who lived in various countries. By 1980 about 3,500 languages had been recorded [5]. Millions of records had been produced.

Of course, not all remote villages owned a record player. So Joy’s organization developed and supplied a number of different players over the decades.

The simplest was a cardboard sleeve that also housed the record for shipping. When opened up, a needle fastened to one edge played the record when placed on the stubby spindle attached to one side. The record could be turned by a pencil or stick stuck into a hole on the edge of the label.   

Hand-wound box-players were later issued, then cassette players, followed by hand-wound mp3 players. Today, the internet and apps allow people all over the world to hear about Jesus and his gift of salvation.

In an interview recorded in 1974 [6], Joy Ridderhof (1903-1984) passionately affirmed:

“We have a God that’s alive, who answers prayer, takes care of us, gives us joy in the work, and provides great results from our work.

“Many thousands have heard about Jesus; little churches have sprung up in different places. He has met our needs and proven himself faithful [7]!”

Today, the Global Recordings Network includes forty offices worldwide, and has produced recordings in more than 6,500 languages [8].  

Joy Ridderhof

 

[1] https://www.globalrecordingsusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Magazine-viewing-version-1.pdf

[2] https://fromthevault.wheaton.edu/2024/03/04/too-impractical-to-be-a-missionary-remembering-missions-pioneer-joy-ridderhof/

[3]  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsLfY9bOkxo

[4] https://fromthevault.wheaton.edu.

[5] www.globalrecordings.org

[6] (and [7])  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsLfY9bOkxo

[8] https://www.globalrecordingsusa.org/about/overview/

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In the Stillness

Posted in God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Seeking God, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on August 13, 2025| 35 Comments »

Wingstem waltzes at woodland edge,

Gilt buckeye leaves tumble and twirl.

Creation sighs a cool breeze of relief

As summer wanes and fall approaches.

Squirrels scamper over tree-branch highways,

A hummingbird breakfasts on day lilies,

Mums turn round faces to bask in the sun–

A bustle of activity, but not a sound.

Much is accomplished in the stillness.

Trees stretch skyward, adding rings of growth,

Dew crystals bring moisture to petal and leaf,

Butterflies pollinate flower after flower.

God orchestrates harmony, even in stillness,

But not for self-flattering fanfare.

His efforts provide undeniable evidence

Of who he is—proof of his glory.

Note his artistry on sunset dahlias,

His genius in the strength of spider silk,

His wisdom in the female finch’s cloak,

His faithfulness in the circle of seasons.

God also desires to work within us,

Applying his artistry, genius, and wisdom—

Fostering change, fulfilling purpose—

Quietly, faithfully, day by day.

In the stillness of God’s holy presence,

We find strength and serenity of soul.

All we need do is accept his welcome

Into the quiet discovery of HIM.

(Romans 1:20; Psalm 104:24; Job 12:7-10; Philippians 1:6; Psalm 28:7, 29: 11, & 46:10.)

P.S. Ways to involve ourselves in the quiet discovery of God include Bible study, reflection, and praise. Currently my newsletter includes a resource for just such purpose. You can sign up below!

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(Reblogged from 9-27-18 while we enjoy house guests.)

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AVAILABLE THIS MONTH: “Thirty Days of Praise”–scriptures and question-prompts I’ve gathered, to turn our hearts and minds toward celebrating God. As we draw near to him with a few moments of reflection and worship, we can KNOW: he will draw near to us (James 4:8). (Contemplate for a moment what a monumental privilege that is!)

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Everything Serves God’s Purpose

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

(A personal, prayer-response:)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Help me Father to rest in the knowledge that:

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

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

Notes:

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

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AVAILABLE THIS MONTH: “Thirty Days of Praise”–scriptures and question-prompts I’ve gathered, to turn our hearts and minds toward celebrating God. As we draw near to him with a few moments of reflection and worship, we can KNOW: he will draw near to us (James 4:8).

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Have I Got Good News for YOU!

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

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

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

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

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

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

She nods and bows her head in shameful misery.  

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

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

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

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

A rather surprising reason to rejoice, agreed?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I repeat, cancelled.

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

—Sarah Young, Jesus Always, 236.

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

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

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

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

 *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

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

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

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

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

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

[1] Romans 8:31b

[2] Ephesians 2:4-5

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

[4] Romans 8:1 AMP

[5] Psalm 103:12

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

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All Things Beautiful

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

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

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

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

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

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

He can make all things beautiful—even suffering.

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

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

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

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

 These saints have embraced the truth that:

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

Beauty-in-Suffering Begins with Trust

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

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

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

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

Beauty-in-Suffering Grows with Intimacy

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

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

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

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

Beauty-in-Suffering Impacts Others

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

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

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

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

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

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

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

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

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

2 Corinthians 2:14)

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

[2] 2 Corinthians 3:18

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

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Honor Him with an Acronym!

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Strength, Meditation, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on June 19, 2025| 35 Comments »

One delightful (and relatively easy) way to remember biblical concepts, celebrate God, and include our God-given creative side is to compose an acronym. (Perhaps you remember the process from elementary school?)

Start with a word, phrase, or even a short sentence. Write or type it vertically. Use each letter to begin another word, clause, or phrase (composed horizonatally).

For example, the letters P.R.A.Y. can remind us to:

And as we experiment with various words that fit our desired outcome, we’re planting concepts deeper into our consciousness where we’re more likely to remember them.

Of course, we want to make sure those concepts reflect biblical truth. I like to include a correlating scripture reference with each line. The research benefits my spirit also.

Recently in my reading I came across a familiar phrase to describe God, “beyond comprehension,” and decided to tackle an acronym that explores the question: In what ways does he surpass understanding?

Below you’ll find a celebration of the transcendence of God, reminding us just how glorious he is.

He is:

BEYOND COMPREHENSION!   

B  eautiful in his perfections (Psalm 27:4)

E  arnest in attending to our needs (Psalm 23:1-6)

Y  earning for relationship with us (Isaiah 30:18)

O  mnipotent over the universe (Psalm 103:19)

N  ourishing our souls with trustworthy truth (Psalm 19:7; Matthew 4:4)

D  eclaring his glory through all that he has made (Psalm 19:1)

C  ompletely loving of all, with no exceptions (John 3:16)

O  mniscient of all things (Job 37:16)

M  indful of each of us, every moment (Psalm 139:7-12, 17-18)

P  atiently waiting for us to respond to him (2 Peter 3:9)

R  ighteous in all his ways (Psalm 145:17)

E  xceedingly merciful (1 Peter 1:3)

H  oly in splendor and glory (Psalm 96:7-9)

E  ternally faithful to his people (Psalm 100:5)

N  urturing of his children (Isaiah 40:11)

S  upremely inventive as Creator of all things (John 1:3)

I  nfallibly wise (Romans 11:33)

O  mnipresent in every place (Psalm 139:7-10)

N  ear to all who call on him (Psalm 145:18)

We’d do well to remember:

“There is no perfect life, no perfect job, no perfect childhood, no perfect marriage, and no set of people who always do what you expect them do.

“What we do have is a perfect God who is able to lead us through this imperfect life with unfailing strength, impeccable wisdom, and infinite love [1].”

“May we see him as he is, the God of eternal excellence. May we stand in awe of Him [2].”

And . . .  

[1] Unknown

[2] Linda Dillow, Satisfy the Thirsty Soul, 31.

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Restoration Projects

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Delight, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Salvation, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on June 12, 2025| 35 Comments »

‘Ever watch home-makeover shows? I especially enjoy those where designers and their teams tackle old, dilapidated wrecks, with the goal of preserving as much original charm as possible.

And while they describe the process, you can hear the passion in their voices for the work they do.

Often they must remove dumpsters full of garbage, old appliances, and demolition refuse. Substandard wiring and plumbing have to be replaced, and sometimes even the foundation needs shoring up.

The designer also searches the home for such treasures as original doors, old fixtures, or hardware that can be restored.

Some walls are covered with faded, grimy wallpaper, causing a depressive atmosphere. What a difference when the paper is removed and replaced by a pastel shade of paint. The room radiates cheer.

For weeks the team repairs, rejuvenates, and re-beautifies in order to “return the home to its former glory.”

And when the project is complete, the previous eyesore is transformed into an eyeful of delights: refinished floors, gleaming woodwork, glittering chandeliers, and more.

A house that once appeared ready for the wrecking ball has been revived, ready to stand strong for another hundred years.

Like the attentive designers overseeing such projects, God too is an attentive Designer, overseeing projects of his own: you and me.

Although we may not be so dilapidated that we’re dreadful wrecks of humanity, all of us have to admit: there’s the grime of sin dingy-ing up the walls of our souls.

There may also be a sense of outdated faith because we’ve not paid much attention to God lately. Or we need the Designer’s help to remove substandard habits in favor of those that revitalize our spirits—less screen time and more scripture time, for example.

Genuine transformation only happens when we’re immersed in the grace and truth of God’s Word.

Denise J. Hughes, Deeper Waters, 215.

The Bible has much to say about our Designer’s work. For example:

Our Designer Revives

As you read that verse, do you hear the passion in his voice? Imagine: The God of heaven desires to dwell within us. Our part is to invite him to do so, with a repentant and humble heart.

Then, as he moves in God breathes new life into our spirits—new life that includes unsurpassed peace and pure joy through his Son, Jesus [1].

That’s not to say we never experience discouragement, pain, or crisis. But as we rely upon God, he shores up our foundation of faith and strength.

One morning years ago I confessed to my early morning prayer group that ongoing frustration at school plagued many of us on the faculty. Betty prayed for me.

Minutes later as I drove to school, God took my breath away with his artistry as shimmering sunbeams reached heavenward from behind great billowing clouds.

It seemed the glory of God was right there, just beyond that cloud bank. And I could almost hear him say, “You’re going to be fine—I’m right here to help you!”

I felt revived and ready to face the day.

Our Designer Restores

He restores my soul.

–Psalm 23:3 ESV

On a tour of antebellum homes in Charleston, South Carolina, we watched an artisan painstakingly remove layers of old paint from an intricately-carved fireplace surround–paint so thick it had obliterated the full beauty of the design.

Over our lifetimes, we can accumulate layers of erroneous thinking, harmful habits, and guilt. Underneath, however, are the people God created us to be–people intricately designed for purpose, to reflect “the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit,” and intended to enjoy his shalom [2].

Our Designer Renews

Be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.

–Colossians 3:10b NLT

No doubt, when homeowners plan extensive renovations, they choose their designer carefully, wanting someone who’s congenial to work with, helpful, and trustworthy.

Imagine a designer who’s also encouraging, patient when faced with dozens of questions, and respectful of everyone. Such conduct wields positive influence on those around her.

One who is righteous is a guide to his neighbor.

–Proverbs 12:26a ESV

Our Creator-Designer manifests all the above-mentioned traits and more. As we spend time with him through His Word, we find ourselves growing to be like him in our thoughts and attitudes, actions and reactions.

We experience renewal because:

Hallelujah!

[1] 2 Corinthians 5:17

[2] 1 Peter 3:4; Philippians 1:6;  https://www.preceptaustin.org/shalom

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The Weight of Uncertainty

Posted in Decision-Making, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Will, God's Wisdom, Prayer, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged , , , , , , , on June 5, 2025| 34 Comments »

The decision had been narrowed down to two schools for our granddaughter Emma*, a rising seventh-grader. Which would be the best choice for next year–Willow Hills or Sheridan? She’d taken the tests and been accepted by both; each offered its own set of benefits.

Our son Derek and daughter-in-law Heidi received input from others, but their comments only added to the list of pros and cons. No definitive answer came to light.

Emma spent a school day shadowing another student at Sheridan. “It was OK,” she reported afterward. “The teachers were nice.” But nothing she’d seen or experienced had convinced her, “This is the place I want to be!”

All through this process Derek, Heidi and Emma (as well as little sister Madison) had been praying God would make clear the best choice.  The deadline was nearing and the uncertainty felt like a heavy weight upon their minds and hearts.

No doubt you’ve faced similar decisions. It’s not a comfortable place to be.

So why does God allow such distress? Why don’t the answers to our prayers become evident immediately?

There are a number of reasons. Among them:

Uncertainty reveals the frailty of self-reliance.

We can’t see the big picture, and to be honest, very little in our lives is under our full control. Times of uncertainty press us into a place of trusting God [1].

We do well to affirm he’s our devoted heavenly Father. We can trust that what he’s lovingly planned is exactly what we’d choose for ourselves if we could see the entire storyline [2].

So our son and his family (Nana and Papa too!) waited and prayed. All we could do was trust our faithful God to reveal his good and wise plan in his good time.

Uncertainty provides a platform for God to display his grace, wisdom, and power.

These attributes and more become apparent as the answer unfolds and we see his lovingkindness in the plan he’s designed, the wisdom behind it, and the power he’s wielded to make events play out just so.

In the meantime, we must realize the uncertainty we face is only apparent uncertainty. Our future and our provision are certain to God. We’d also do well to remember that “uncertain seasons are often some of the most powerful moments we experience with God” [3]. 

Uncertainty allows us to experience God in fresh ways as we:

  • Sense his presence more profoundly during difficulty. Pat Chen calls it liquid love [4] — perfect imagery for the warm and comforting presence of our Heavenly Father.
  • See his unfailing love on display, even as we struggle—through the kindness of others, the beauty of creation, an encouraging scripture, and more.
  • Recognize his lavish goodness in the eventual, right-on-time provision.

The Sunday after the two acceptance letters arrived for Emma, our family just happened to sit in church in front of a couple with a son who attends Willow Hills.

Both the parents and he shared enthusiastically about the school. They also knew students at Sheridan and expressed concerns that our son and daughter-in-law hadn’t heard before.

The young man, several years older than Emma, spoke directly to her, giving her reasons why he’s loved Willow Hills.

Several days after that encounter, Emma and her dad visited Willow Hills for a tour. “Impressive!” he declared. “I like it!” she affirmed.

And so, just as we’d all prayed, God made the decision clear, and the weight lifted.

When have you faced a season of uncertainty? What helped you to triumph over the doubts and questions? Please share in the comment section below!

*All names changed, including the schools.

 

[1] https://serenityinsuffering.com/4-ways-to-trust-god-in-uncertainty/

[2] Katilyn Bouchillon, contributor to Take Heart, 210.

[3] Jon Bloom, Not by Sight, 57.

[4] Intimacy with the Beloved, 81-82.

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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

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