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Archive for the ‘God’s Love’ Category

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).

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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

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The Most Sparkling Jewel of God’s Crown

Posted in Bible Study, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Power, God's Strength, God's Will, God's Wisdom, Godly Character, Holiness, Obedience, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on October 16, 2025| 33 Comments »

In 1937, the Imperial State Crown of England was created for the coronation of King George VI. It is inarguably one of the most beautiful in the world.

The number of jewels staggers the imagination. Among them: eleven emeralds, seventeen sapphires, 269 pearls, and 2868 diamonds [1].

Front and center, just above the ermine band, sits the largest diamond—the “Star of Africa II, weighing 317.4 carats. (“Star of Africa I,” which is even larger, sits atop the British royal scepter.)

Puritan preacher and author, Thomas Watson (1620-1686), named one of God’s attributes as the most sparkling jewel of God’s crown. But before I reveal his answer, which of God’s quality traits would you consider his “attribute of attributes?”

  1. Love
  2. Holiness
  3. Power
  4. Infinitude

Watson chose B, perhaps because of the word’s meaning: separate and set apart. God is completely removed from every other creature, given his omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence. In addition, he is perfect in purity, goodness, faithfulness, and so much more.

In heaven the seraphim (fiery angels!) continually celebrate God’s holiness. The prophet Isaiah heard them saying:

The Apostle John, during his vision of heaven, heard a similar chant [2].

We can’t help but notice the repetition of holy three times, and if you’re like me, that makes us curious. Why three times?

First, “holy” in triplicate may seek to honor each Person of the Trinity: Father, Son, and Spirit.

Second, repetition indicates emphasis.

The ancient Hebrew language included no punctuation, no bold print, no way to indicate greater importance. When writers wanted to highlight something, they’d repeat it.

Other examples would include:

  • In Genesis chapter one “God saw that it was good” is repeated six times.
  • 1 Kings 9:26-10:29 includes the word gold fifteen times to emphasize King Solomon’s wealth.
  • Psalm 130:6 offers heartfelt longing: “I wait for the Lord more than the watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning.”
  • Psalm 136 includes “His love endures forever” twenty-six times.
  • In Ezekiel 21:27, the prophet related God’s soon-coming judgment on Jerusalem—“A ruin! A ruin! I will make it a ruin!”

But nowhere in scripture do we see a triple-repetition of an attribute for anyone but God and only for this one attribute [3]. God’s holiness is superlative; he is infinitely holy. And that holiness impacts everything else about him.

His love is holy love. His power is holy power. His justice is holy justice. All his attributes are characterized by purity and splendor beyond those of anyone else.

Gaze upon the crowning jewel of God’s holiness and be overcome with awe and reverence, as well as “a sense of our incredible, desperate need for a fresh infusion of who He is”—because he’s instructed us to be holy too [4].

“Oh, I can’t do that,” someone will say. “Even at my age I still do and say things I shouldn’t, and then leave undone the things I should do. Being holy is impossible!”

Here’s what that person doesn’t understand:

“What God’s truth demands; His grace will provide.” “Faithful is he that calls, who also will do it” [5].

The more we expand our awareness of God’s holiness, the more honor and respect we’ll long to give him through obedience—obedience that he rewards with blessing.

Just how do we expand that awareness? Through Bible study that instructs, prayer that empowers, worship that inspires, and practicing his presence that encourages.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Holy God, who is like you? You are majestic in holiness beyond my comprehension; you are awesome in glory that takes my breath away. Every moment you are continually working wonders. There is no one holy like you! There is no one besides you!

I praise you, Father, for working your holiness into my spirit, enabling me to reflect your holy love, your holy goodness, your holy compassion to those around me. Empower me this day, I pray. AMEN.

(Exodus 15:11; 1 Samuel 2:2; Philippians 2:13)

[1] https://www.rct.uk/collection/31701/the-imperial-state-crown

[2] Revelation 4:8

[3] James MacArthur, Gripped by the Greatness of God, 28.

[4] MacArthur, 31.

[5] Francis Frangipane, Holiness, Truth, and the Presence of God, 23; 1 Thessalonians 5:24

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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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Glorify the Light

Posted in Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, God, God's Delight, God's Grace, God's Love, Godly Character, Obedience, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on September 25, 2025| 46 Comments »

In ancient times, someone noticed that candles held up high extended the light further and made the room brighter. That observation led to an invention.

He (or she!) crisscrossed two small boards, fastened them together, hammered a spike through each of the four ends, and fixed a candle on each spike. Last he suspended the contraption from the rafters [1].

Perhaps something similar to this!

Voilà! The first chandelier was born.

Fast forward to the 1600s. Artisans began producing the first crystal chandeliers that reflected and refracted the light, creating more ambient light than candles alone, not to mention stunning beauty.

1600s rock crystal chandelier, from the Nethercutt Collection, Sylmar, CA

Some designers incorporated mirrors, increasing the luminosity even further.

Louis XIV of France famously ordered numerous chandeliers—forty-three of them—for the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. Thousands of crystals maximized the light of approximately twenty thousand candles, which was also reflected in the 357 pieces of mirrored glass [2].   

A chandelier offers us a radiant picture of the kingdom of God with the crystals and mirrors representing us. Just as a chandelier glorifies a room with its resplendent light, so we’re called to glorify GOD by reflecting his resplendent light to those around us [3].

But how do we do that? Consider these possibilities:

We Glorify God by Trusting Him (Psalm 147:11)

It must warm God’s heart when his saints keep returning to him for strength and comfort during a difficult season. Such people, calmed by the profound and inexplicable peace of God, stand in beautiful contrast to the angry or anxious around them.

We Glorify God by Enjoying Him (Psalm 96:6-8)

That enjoyment will surely create a noticeable glow of contentment on our faces, as we delight in his mercy, goodness, compassion, and more.

We Glorify God by Letting Him Love Us (Romans 8:35-39)

“Do you want to glorify God? . . . Let him love you. Receive his grace, drink it down, without adding one drop of your own goodness to it. Your very purpose in life and eternity is to be ‘to the praise of his glorious grace‘” (Ephesians 1:5-6).

Dane C. Ortlund, In the Lord I Take Refuge, 381.

We may know God loves us, but how often do we rest in his warmth, contemplating his love-gifts throughout the day, like:

  • a multi-hued sunrise
  • the cheery song of a cardinal
  • a friendly wave from a neighbor
  • an uplifting word of encouragement
  • the long-awaited rain pattering on the roof
  • a sweet memory that suddenly comes to mind and makes you smile

This is just a short-list of possibilities. God continually expresses his love. Receive it—no, better yet, revel in it and glorify him for his lavish demonstrations and the grace behind each one.

We Glorify God by Living His Ways (Matthew 5:16)

Years ago a church member told me she’d recently been driving along the main street of our neighborhood and caught up with a car going the speed limit.

“Who goes the speed limit these days?” She laughed and then continued. “But to be honest, I began to get frustrated, because I was in a hurry to get home! And then the car turned down your street and I could see who was driving–your son!

“Imagine: a teenager going the speed limit! I just had to tell you: he’s a good driver, even when he thinks no one’s paying attention.”

E. honored us, his parents, that day, by choosing character over convenience. But better yet he honored God. Without even knowing, he reflected the light of Christ and His character to that church member.

Now imagine the dazzling light-display we can create corporately to glorify God–as we all trust him, enjoy him, let him love us, and live by his ways.

Surely we can even outshine those chandeliers in the Hall of Mirrors!

[1] https://chandelierrental.com/the-history-of-a-chandelier/

[2] https://artisanelevators.com/articles/palace-of-versailles/

[3] James 1:17; Matthew 5:16; 2 Corinthians 3:18

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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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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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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.

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

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The Restful Life

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But how can we be sure of that?

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

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

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

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

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[6] Charles Spurgeon

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

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