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Archive for the ‘God’s Faithfulness’ Category

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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The Restful Life

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But how can we be sure of that?

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

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

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

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

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[6] Charles Spurgeon

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As a Shield

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

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

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

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

One of Israel’s missile launchers in action

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

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

The Lord himself.

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

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

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

God is our shield because of his attributes.

His power shields us from ultimate ruin.

His wisdom shields us from foolishness.

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

His righteousness shields us from the evil one.

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

The list could go on.

God is also our shield because of his actions.

His shield offers:

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

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

 . . . we must each take up our shield.

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

How? Through prayer.

We invite him to watch over us and protect us.

We affirm the promises and encouragement from his Word.

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

Will you pray with me right now?

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     * 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[5] Matthew 11:28-30

[6] Psalm 28:7 AMP

[7] Psalm 3:3 GWT

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

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With or Without?

Posted in Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, God's Promises, Intimacy with God, Seeking God, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , , , on April 24, 2025| 23 Comments »

Life is about choices, and there are just two ways to make them. We can trust our own wits, or we can put our faith in guidance from outside ourselves.

Guidance from outside might come from trusted family and friends, counselors, self-help books, and God. But only one source offers infallible wisdom every time: God.

The question becomes, will we live a life of faith with God [1], or will we choose to live without?

As a child I chose the former and never regretted it. Many of you have walked a similar path.

Sometimes, though, we get weary. Doubts creep in. Problems crop up like weeds and answers to life’s dilemmas don’t come as quickly as we’d like.

What then?

There are a number of faith-building actions you’re probably familiar with, including: praise and gratitude to God, scripture study, prayer, as well as spending time with mature and wise Christians.

You know what else is helpful? Studying the facets of faith. As we deepen our understanding of how faith works, we enhance our connection with God, increase our usefulness, and experience more contentment in life.

No doubt there are quite a few facets to our faith, but today we’ll briefly look at just eight.

FAITH IS:

Affirmation of What We Know

God would have us understand he is righteous, good, faithful, and compassionate [2].

He never forsakes those who seek him. He arms us with strength and keeps our way secure. God guides us along the right path, and surrounds us with his unfailing love [3].

In the book of Psalms alone you’ll find hundreds of such encouraging affirmations as these, highlighting who God is and the glorious things he does. It’s a delight-of-discovery to seek them out [4].

Faith grows depending on what it is fed.

–Unknown

And affirmation of God’s character is a beneficial first course.

Attentiveness

Faith is seeing light with your heart

when all your eyes see is darkness.

–Barbara Johnson

And where might we find that light? In the presence of God and in the encouragement and promises of scripture that fill our hearts with the light of hope [5].

Confidence

As we practice affirmation and attentiveness, we build confidence in the truth that God will do what is right when the time is right, though for now we may see no sign of it.

Courage

Confidence in God fuels our courage to trust without proof, to thank God in advance (even before there’s evidence of anything happening), and to step into the unknown.

Faith is taking the first step even when

you don’t see the whole staircase.

–Martin Luther King, Jr.

Empowerment

Be inspired by what Charles Spurgeon wrote decades ago:

Faith links me with divinity.

Faith clothes me with the power of God.

Faith engages on my side

the omnipotence of Jehovah.

Faith insures every attribute of God in my defense.

–Charles Spurgeon

With almighty God on our side, what have we to fear [6]?

Expectancy

And surely, such an attitude will contribute joyful up-timism [7] in our spirits.

Rest

Faith invades the muddle; it does not eliminate it.

Peace develops in the midst of chaos.

Harmony is achieved slowly, quietly, unobtrusively. . .

Such clarities result from courageous commitment to God.

–Eugene Peterson, Run with the Horses, 194-195

When we trust without reservation we find peace and rest.

Waiting

Without the discipline of wait-time, our faith would remain underdeveloped. This facet provides opportunity for strength of spirit to grow [8]. And we can take comfort from the knowledge that:

While we are waiting on God,

we are waiting with God.

–Lou Giglio

As we live life with him we’ll find:

  • Affirmation, attentiveness, and waiting will grow our faith.
  • Confidence, courage, and empowerment will result from our faith.
  • Expectancy and rest will flow from our faith.

I can’t imagine making any other choice than living life with God.

How about you?

[1] Life with God is precipitated by accepting Jesus’ glorious invitation into God’s family (John 1:12).

[2] Psalm 7:17; 13:6; 31:5; 51:1

[3] Psalm 9:10; 18:32; 23:3; 32:10

[4] See the post, https://nancyaruegg.com/2025/01/16/celebrating-god-through-the-psalms/

[5] Psalm 146:5

[6] Psalm 27:1

[7] See the post, https://nancyaruegg.com/2022/10/06/better-than-optimism/

[8] Isaiah 40:31

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He’s a Keeper!

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

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

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

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

Our God is indeed Keeper extraordinaire of creation!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[2] Faith’s Checkbook, August 4.

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

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The Mismatched Pairing

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

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

They would be wrong.

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

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

Many more ordeals followed, including:

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

Perhaps a mission such as this one in central China

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

May we do the same.

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

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

[2] Ibid.

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

Other Sources:

https://www.bdcconline.net

https://rpwitness.org

Jeanette Li (Yin Wei Jie)

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