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Archive for the ‘God’s Love’ Category

CHILL!

Posted in Encouragement, Excellence, God's Love, Godly Character, Renewing the Mind, Success, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on October 3, 2024| 45 Comments »

Years ago when our middle granddaughter was a preschooler, we took her to an arcade. In the back corner stood a few free games and among them, two old Tetris side by side.

Some of you will remember this game. Shapes drift down from the screen-top; the player must manipulate them, fitting them together in a solid wall as they reach the bottom—without leaving holes.

After a quick explanation of how to play, E. happily started pushing buttons. I decided to play the neighboring game. Bad mistake.

Video games never were my forte, and the passing years had not contributed to my skills. Frustration began to build as hole after hole appeared in my wall.

At game’s end, E. cried with joyful triumph, “Look Nana! Look at the pretty design I made!”

Though her screen displayed many colorful shapes, there were numerous holes. But that didn’t matter to E. In her view she’d created an eye-catching piece of art.

E. taught me a lesson that day. My attitude could often be improved if I just focused on the positive of what IS and not on the negative of what ISN’T.

All too frequently I’ve strived for unattainable goals, wasted time on unimportant details, or sacrificed rest while slaving through a lengthy to-do-list. I’ve also cared too much what other people thought.

All of these traits are symptoms of perfectionism.

Why are we perfectionists so strict on ourselves? Perhaps it’s because we don’t want to be:

  • ashamed of our performance or handiwork
  • blamed when our efforts aren’t up to par
  • judged inferior or lacking in some way

To move away from such fears and toward the freedom Christ offers (John 8:36), we need to CHILL by affirming these attitudes and actions.

I am:

  • C elebrating more often what’s right, criticizing less often what’s wrong
  • H appy with “good enough” when appropriate
  • I nspiring others with my imperfections!
  • L istening to the truth
  • L oved by God as I am

To jump-start such declarations, consider the following.

CELEBRATE

When faulty efforts occur, we can CELEBRATE this: “A flawed rose still smells sweet” (Unknown). I can still carry the fragrance of Christ as I rely upon him through the mistakes and failures.

(Be) HAPPY

“We don’t have to be perfect to be wonderful” (Unknown).

Lots of fantastic people in this world display admirable qualities, but not one of them is perfect.

You’re wonderful too! Give yourself the same grace you give others.

INSPIRE

“There’s no need to be perfect in order to inspire others. Let people get inspired by how you deal with your imperfections”—Ziad K. Abdelnour.

Also true:

LISTEN

Listen to such truths as these to silence the voice of perfectionism:

  • Jesus did live a perfect life yet was criticized incessantly. However, all he cared about was his Father’s approval, which God bestowed (Matthew 3:17). You know who else is approved? Everyone who believes in Jesus!

Everyone who believes has God’s approval

through faith in Jesus Christ.

Romans 3:22a GW

  • The godly Apostle Paul admitted—after thirty-years as a Jesus-follower— he hadn’t achieved perfection. Even so, he found satisfaction in pressing on toward spiritual maturity (Philippians 3:12-13).
  • We can combat the striving as we embrace God’s desires for us—to lie down in his green pastures now and then, and not fill every minute with activity—to lead us beside quiet waters, and not struggle in a churning ocean of busyness (Psalm 23:1-3).

(Receive) LOVE

God has made it clear: “[He] loves us because of who he is, not because of who we are” (Unknown, 1 John 4:10).

His love for us is:

  • Sacrificial (Romans 5:8)
  • Lavish (1 John 3:1)
  • Patient, kind, unfailing, and more (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)
  • Forgiving (Ephesians 4:32)
  • Everlasting (Jeremiah 31:3)

So! When perfectionism insists we aim even beyond excellence, let’s remember:

There are no perfect daughters, wives or mothers; no perfect sons, husbands, or fathers; no perfect employees, no perfect homes. No one has it 100% together.

“What we do have is a perfect God who is able to lead us through this imperfect life with unfailing strength, incomparable wisdom, and infinite love” (Unknown).

Like our granddaughter E., we can celebrate with joyful triumph the cumulating designs of our lives—imperfect though they may be.

Let’s CHILL!

Art & photo credits: http://www.flickr.com; http://www.canva.com (4); http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.canva.com.

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Balancing the Scales

Posted in Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Provision, God's Salvation, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on September 26, 2024| 36 Comments »

Elohim [1], Lord of heaven, summoned the angel Gabriel to his craft studio. The latter winged his way down the hallways of paradise and soon entered the Master’s presence.

He found Elohim hunched over his work table, pouring over design sheets, but he looked up as the grand angel entered.

“Gabriel!” boomed Elohim. “Thank you for coming so quickly. I need to discuss with you my plans for the human race before creating Adam and Eve.

“It’s important you know these plans since you’ll play an important role in the coming world.”

Gabriel stood erect and folded his wings in precise pleats. “I am your servant, Lord, ready to do your bidding [2].”

Elohim smiled. “Thank you, Gabriel. Now—here’s what I’m thinking. First, you’ll remember we’ve already decided to give humans the freedom of choice, since puppet-children would be pointless.

“I can’t enjoy the blessing of relationship with puppets! No, my children must have free will [3].”

Elohim began to pace around his mammoth work table. “Second, much as I’d love to lavish each of my future children with perpetual happiness, I know such circumstances in their human state would only spoil them.

“There must be a balancing of the scales between blessing and challenge in order to do them good—to demonstrate my love and grace, yet bring them to a place of maturity and strength [4].”

“Yes, my Lord. I can see the wisdom of such a plan. How will you execute it?”

Elohim swished his flowing train around a corner of the table and continued to pace. “I’ll have to allow bitter along with the sweet, since too much pleasure will intoxicate them and too much sorrow will crush them.

“Too much success will lead to conceit, and too much failure will cause debilitation. Too much praise will contribute to pride, and too much criticism will bring on despair [5].”

Gabriel nodded thoughtfully. “I see what you mean, Elohim.”

“Even so, I want humans to grow in their understanding that happiness will not only be within them, nor will it solely be without. Happiness will be most dependent on their relationship with me.”

“Well said, my Lord!”

Elohim stopped pacing, a twinkle dancing in his eyes. “Thank you, Gabriel. Eons from now I’ll inspire one of my children, Blaise Pascal, to write similar words.”

With his star-studded pen Elohim pointed to a shelf holding one large scroll and tied with a scarlet cord.

“That is my plan for initiating relationship with humans: faith in my Son, Jesus—either looking forward to his coming, or trusting in him for eternal life after his death and resurrection [6].”

Elohim then indicated the design sheets strewn on his work table. “Currently in the planning stages, these individually-designed blessings to lift the spirits of my children when faced with difficulty.

“For example, I’ll bring a loving friend alongside a person who’s grieving, or paint a glowing sunrise to remind them of My presence, or lead them to a scripture that perfectly addresses their need—that sort of thing.”

With a flourish of his white-robed arm, Elohim pointed to countless rolls of such design sheets tucked into cubby-holes along the wall. “As you can see, I’ve planned out a number of good things already [7]!”

Now it was Gabriel’s turn to smile. “And no doubt you’ve enjoyed all the creating and designing.”

Elohim affirmed Gabriel’s assumption with a satisfied grin. “I shall have blessings ready for every circumstance my dear children face, though they will have to keep watch so they don’t miss them!”

Elohim paused. In softer tones, yet with passion and resolve he declared, “Gabriel, even before this epic of humanity begins, I already love them.

“Yes, they’ll choose to behave foolishly, but I will still bestow kindness with generosity, mercy with understanding, and goodness with wisdom [8].

“My greatest desire is that all humankind turn to me. And for those who do, a multitude of tender mercies await [9].” Elohim indicated the overflowing cubbies on the wall.

Gabriel bowed in reverence. “May all the peoples-of-the-earth-to-come stand in awe of your gracious provisions [10]!”

[1] The name “Elohim” indicates God is the Creator and ruler in the circumstances of humankind

[2] Psalm 103:20

[3] Galatians 5:13

[4] Psalm 86:15; James 1:4

[5] Based on a Don Fortner quote, www.gracequotes.org

[6] John 3:16; 1 John 4:9-10; John 6:29

[7] Psalm 31:19

[8] Jeremiah 31:3; Isaiah 53:6; Psalm 69:16 AMP; Lamentations 3:22-23; Psalm 145:9

[9] 1 Timothy 2:4; Psalm 69:16

[10] Psalm 33:8

Photo credits: http://www.pexels.com; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.heartlight.org (2); http://www.pickpik.com.

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Out-of-the-Blue Blessings

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on August 15, 2024| 54 Comments »

Eric, our older son, and I were chatting on the phone.

“Mom, did you happen to save my old Uncle Wiggily book from when I was little?”

Uncle Wiggily? Goodness. I hadn’t thought about that old rabbit and his adventures for years.

“I doubt that we have it,” I responded. “Didn’t each of you kids already take the children’s books you wanted as keepsakes? I think all we have are some leftovers, saved for the grandchildren.”

“No, I don’t have it either,” he replied.

“Well, maybe it was just too worn out to save.”

“Could be. I was hoping to find a copy because it would be such fun to share with our Elena when she gets a bit older.” He paused a moment.  “Remember the picture of Uncle Wiggily in his car?”

This illustration from an earlier edition

No, I didn’t remember.

“The wheels were made from big, fat sausages. That was my favorite page. But every illustration was full of imaginative detail,” he reminisced.

That would explain why Eric, our artist, had such fondness for this book.

“I even checked on Craig’s List to see if anyone might have a copy, but no luck.”

Wow. He did have a big soft spot for Uncle Wiggily. And I had a big case of guilt for getting rid of it.

Why hadn’t I remembered that book was one of his favorites? How could I have thrown it away, even if it was tattered?

Months later, my husband Steve and I were sorting through boxes in the garage. Two of them contained the children’s books we still owned.

Maybe we could pare down to one box, I thought.

I started unloading the books and organizing them into piles. At the very bottom of the second box was—you guessed it–Uncle Wiggily. And it wasn’t in such bad shape after all.

I whispered a prayer of gratitude for this small but precious gift—a blessing that I hadn’t even asked for.

Does it seem to you that out-of-the-blue blessings bring the most joy? Perhaps that’s true because they give us such memorable glimpses of God’s love and grace–love and grace that are:

Undeserved

Just as he “gave” me a book I had not searched for nor prayed for, God loved and provided for each of us before we ever searched for him or prayed to know him (Matthew 5:45; Psalm 14:2).

Personal

Surely there are not many folks who would delight in finding an old copy of Uncle Wiggily.  The blessing of discovering its whereabouts was, it seemed, personalized–just for me (and Eric).

Similarly, God’s love and grace are personal. He cares deeply for each of his children. Remember the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15:1-7)?

It’s true:

God loves each of us as if there was only one of us.

—St. Augustine

Last, God’s love and grace are:

Lavish

It is doubtful a copy of Uncle Wiggly will turn up at a Sotheby’s auction.  It is not a valuable antique volume that collectors will pay thousands of dollars for.  

But when I found that book at the bottom of the box, it was like finding buried treasure–placed there by God himself–an unnecessary but perfectly lovely, out-of-the-blue blessing from my Heavenly Father.

I couldn’t wait to call Eric and share with him the good news.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

What out-of-the-blue blessing have you received that caused great joy? Please share your story in the comment section below!

(Revised and reblogged from August 14, 2014 while we enjoy houseguests.)

Art & photo credits: http://www.flickr.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.canva.com.; http://www.freebibleimages.com.

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IM-Possible? No, HIM-Possible!

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Salvation, God's Strength, Hope, Meditation, Peace, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on July 18, 2024| 37 Comments »

(An imaginary conversation between God and me.)

ME:

You know me, Lord. If I’m not careful my mind can slide into fear and worry, especially about the needs and struggles of loved ones. Or I can slip backward into hurts or regrets of the past. Release from such thoughts is not always easy.

But I’ve heard it said, “What is IM-possible is HIM-possible” (Unknown).

So when negativity seeks to pull me down, I want to be quick to remember who YOU are, your promises, and what you can do that make all things HIM-possible.

GOD:

Indeed, nothing is IM-possible with me (Luke 1:37).

Here are four important truths to keep in mind that make for HIM-possible-living:

I am greater than your fears.

Think on My sovereignty and might.

I am in control of all things. I have established My throne in heaven and My kingdom rules over all. Therefore, the one who fears Me need not fear anything else [1].

I am all-wise and all-powerful, always with you and ready to offer counsel.

I am your all-sufficient Father, able to provide everything and anything you’ll ever need.

ME:

I praise You, Lord, for equipping me to contend with whatever circumstances unfold. You are the Mighty Warrior who saves!

(Psalm 103:19; 1 John 4:18a; Romans 11:33; Psalm 15:3, 46:1; Ephesians 3:20; Zephaniah 3:17)

GOD:

I am greater than your troubles.

Remember My power and strength.

Out of My omnipotence, I promise to supply you with strength sufficient for the day. Each morning I provide a fresh supply of all my mercies.

No matter what the future may hold, you can keep on bearing all things through My Son, Jesus Christ, who constantly infuses you with His strength.

Every trouble produces benefit–strong, honorable character in you, and blessing for others as they see My peace and joy reflected in you.

ME:

I praise you, Lord, for being a present-and-active help in times of trouble.

(2 Chronicles 20:6; Psalm 18:32; Lamentations 3:22-23; Philippians 4:13;

Romans 8:28; James 1:2-4; Matthew 5:16; Psalm 46:1)

GOD:

I am greater than your hurts.

Remember my love and tenderness, my grace and kindness.

I provide a solid foundation on which to rest, even when wave after wave of challenge sweeps through your life [2].

I am your Great Physician. Cling to Me by immersing yourself in My Word and find the cure for your heartache.

I am patiently transfiguring all the notes of your life into the song of My Son, Jesus . . . All is grace, as your hurts and heartaches become tools in My hands, to transform you into the image of Christ [3].

ME:

I praise you, Lord, for your devoted, attentive care.

(Isaiah 66:13a; Psalm 86:15; Psalm 147:3; Psalm 119:49-50; 2 Corinthians 3:18)

GOD:

I am greater than your regrets.

Remember my compassion and forgiveness.

Dwell on regrets and you’ll stir up a whirlpool of excruciating details. It’s an easy place to drown [4].

Leave the irreparable past in My hands, and step into the irresistible future with Me [5]. You’ll find joy replacing remorse and peace replacing agitation.

When thoughts of your failures do push their way into your consciousness, allow my total forgiveness to relieve your pangs of guilt. Then offer Me praise for accepting you just as you are, thanking Me for growing you into more than you were yesterday [6].

ME:

I praise you, Lord, for your mercy to forgive and your grace that meets me where I am but does not leave me where it found me [7].

I praise you that victory over fears, troubles, hurts, and regrets is more than HIM-possible with you!

(Psalm 103:8, 13; Romans 8:37)

[1] The fear of God in the original language doesn’t mean to be afraid. It means sustaining a joyful, astonished, awe and wonder before Him—Timothy Keller.

[2] Jane Fryar, Be Blessed, 34-35.

[3] Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts, 100; Kay Arthur, His Imprint, My Expression, 180.

[4] Based on a David Powlison quote, https://www.sgclouisville.org/blog/2024/01/16/sermon-quotes-what-do-we-do-with-regret.

[5] Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, Dec. 31.

[6] Ruth Bell Graham, Blessings for a Mother’s Day, 101.

[7] Anne Lamott, GRACE Eventually.

Art & photo credits: http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.rawpixels.com.

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Murmurs in the Silence

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, Intimacy with God, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged , , , , , , , on June 27, 2024| 36 Comments »

Imagine an impression, conviction, direction or affirmation imprinted so strongly upon your spirit that you knew for certain it came from God. It’s an appealing idea, but we may wonder:

How can we know when a thought is divinely bestowed?

The above promise from Jeremiah 33:3 indicates we can distinguish God’s voice. (Further evidence includes Isaiah 30:21, John 8:47, Revelation 3:20, and more.)

In addition, many respected Jesus-followers offer affirmation, based on their own experience.

Below you’ll find excerpts from some of these teachers, preachers, and authors, to answer our questions about hearing God speak within our hearts—questions like:

TO WHOM DOES GOD SPEAK?

To those who belong to God.

To those who make time for stillness.

God [is] waiting in the depths of my being to speak to me

if I would only be still enough to hear His voice.

–A. B. Simpson, quoted in Streams in the Desert, 255

To those willing to sit in silence.

Silence is the room we create for the searching of God,

where we hear his voice and follow.

–Mark Buchanan, http://christian.net/resources/bible-verses-about-hearing-god/

To those who prepare themselves to hear.

God will speak to the hearts of those who prepare themselves to hear.

–A. W. Tozer, God Still Speaks; Are We Listening?

WHY DOES GOD SPEAK INTO THE HEARTS OF HIS CHILDREN?

When God speaks, His chief aim is to reveal Himself.

He desires to make Himself known and lead

you into a more intimate relationship with Him.

–Priscilla Shirer, Discerning God’s Voice, 105

HOW CAN WE KNOW THAT GOD IS ACTUALLY SPEAKING TO US?

He speaks in love (Jeremiah 31:3), not condemnation (Romans 8:1).

One of the distinguishing characteristics

which will identify His voice is that it will

highlight His great, never-ending love for us . . .

Even when He is disciplining and correcting you

He is still operating from

His foundational character of love.

Love is how He is.

–Priscilla Shirer Discerning God’s Voice, 112

Whatever God says will concur with his Word.

When God speaks, it always lines up with the Bible—

His character and His actions.

He is kind, loving, inspirational, wise, healing,

and convicting without being condemning.

–Alice Clarke, https://www.catchthefire.com/blog/prophecy-prophetic-c45wm

Confirmation from elsewhere may also present itself.

When [God] speaks to you internally,

and then causes other events to confirm what he’s saying,

it’s not coincidence, luck, or chance.

It is likely his sovereign hand orchestrating circumstances

to help lead you to his will.

When God speaks, he does so persistently.

–Priscilla Shirer, Discerning God’s Voice, 76

WHAT CAN WE DO TO IMPROVE OUR LISTENING ABILITY?

Spend time in God’s Word.

The more time we spend in the Bible,

the more familiar we become with his voice,

making it easier to recognize it when he speaks.

–Denise J. Hughes, Deeper Waters, 50

Pray.

Prayer can lead regularly to personal encounter with God,

which can be indeed a wondrous, mysterious, awe-filled experience.

–Friedrich Heiler, Prayer: A Study, 129. Referenced by Timothy Keller in

Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, 43.

Be still.

How rare it is to find a soul quiet enough to hear God speak.

–Francois Fenelon

Take time to wait.

I listen for His voice. I wait. I take the time.

And He has never failed to meet me

at the place of listening.

–Joni Eareckson Tada, 31 Days Toward Intimacy, 82

Stay alert.

God murmurs in the silence of unexpected places.

–l. l. barkat, God in the Yard, 87.

Even at the kitchen sink.

“Just as this beautiful cluster of grapes once grew on a vine,

you are growing beautiful fruit as you abide in Me”–JESUS (John 15:5).

If we ask God to reveal himself, he’ll do it—as he chooses—through little whispers, confirmations, divine delays and heavenly echoes that corroborate with what he’s already saying through His Word and Spirit (Priscilla Shirer, Discerning God’s Voice, 193).

Let’s ask him now.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Jesus, please quiet all the loud voices that flood my heart and mind. Give me ears to hear the gentle sound of your voice. Speak Lord, your servant is listening. Amen (Chrystal Evans Hurst, Kingdom Woman Devotional, 41).

Psalm 37:7; 1 Samuel 3:9

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

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GRACE of Place, Place of GRACE

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Presence, Joy, Meditation, Peace, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on May 2, 2024| 45 Comments »

Have you seen those grace-filled fingerprints? Perhaps at home in the joy of good-natured laughter around the family table, or one child helping another with his homework—unprompted, or unified celebration of all—for the success of one.

Perhaps you’ve seen God’s fingerprints outdoors in a landscape of incredible beauty and grandeur, or an up-close encounter with one of God’s creatures, or the expanse of a sunrise, sunset, or brilliant rainbow.

And especially at church, we see God’s fingerprints when an impassioned congregation sings their praise to him, a saint of God offers a heart-touching prayer, someone shares a personal story of divine, miraculous provision, or a scripture-reading fits perfectly our current circumstances.

No doubt, God’s grace is on display everywhere and always. It never wanes; it’s new every morning. And, as illustrated above, when we intentionally look, we see his fingerprints in the GRACE of place.

But God’s grace is not only evident around us. God has provided a place of GRACE within us as well.

“This grace of God is a very great, strong, mighty, and active thing.

It does not lie asleep in the soul.

Grace hears, leads, drives, draws, changes, works all in man,

and lets itself be distinctly felt and experienced.

It is hidden, but its works are evident.

–Martin Luther

That middle line especially deserves deep and slow consideration. Luther would surely have us understand:

  • Our God of grace hears—even before we speak (Isaiah 55:24).
  • Our God of grace leads—along the best and straightest path to himself (Psalm 16:11a) [1].
  • Our God of grace drives (propels)—gently but persistently—so we’re resilient, not fragile; strong, not weak; useful, not ineffectual (Ephesians 3:20).
  • Our God of grace lovingly and relentlessly draws us unto himself (Jeremiah 31:3).
  • Our God of grace changes us, progressively transforming us into his likeness with ever-increasing glory (2 Corinthians 3:18).
  • Our God of grace works in us so he can work through us—all to his and our mutual delight (Philippians 2:13).

He is a passionately dedicated, perfectly-intentioned, and supremely benevolent Heavenly Father!

Yet there is more. 

Our God enriches, enlightens, enables, and enraptures by:

  • blessing us—not with everything that pleases us—but with everything good for us [2]
  • bestowing the privilege of his presence—“so wonderful, quieting, soothing, calming, and warming” [3]
  • guiding us with supernatural wisdom as we avail ourselves with childlike trust
  • shaping our lives into what is useful and beautiful [4]
  • providing a haven within of comfort (Psalm 34:18) and strength (Psalm 59:16), refreshment (Acts 3:19) and joy (Psalm 4:7)

All good things are a result of God’s grace (Psalm 84:11)—in the GRACE of place all around us and in the place of GRACE within.

Where are you seeing God’s grace-filled fingerprints this day? Tell us about it in the comment section below!

[1] Dietrich Bonhoeffer

[2] King David mentions at least ten gifts in Psalm 103 alone.

[3] J. Danson Smith, quoted in Streams in the Desert, Jim Reimann, ed., 340.

[4] Eugene Peterson, Run with the Horses, 79.

Art & photo credits: http://www.openclipart.org & canva.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.creazilla.com (painting by Pieter Claesz).

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Branch and Key

Posted in Christmas, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Salvation, Hope, Jesus, Meditation, Praise, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on December 14, 2023| 22 Comments »

Two weeks ago we embarked upon a reflection of one of the most important songs in the history of the Christian faith: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”

The lyrics beautifully weave together the Old and New Testaments, telling the story of our Messiah, “the chosen One”—who would come to deliver his people from the consequences of their sins and establish his kingdom forever [1].

As noted before, the unknown lyricist carefully based each stanza on scripture. You’ll find references for further reflection listed at the end of this post.

Today we turn our attention to verses four and five [2]:

VERSE 4

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for fulfilling all the Messianic prophecies in the Old Testament—at least 300 of them (!), proclaimed long before your birth. The one referenced here offers such glorious hope, as I’m reminded that:

Jesse was the father of King David, and the prophet Jeremiah foretold you’d be a descendant of this king, a man loyal to the Lord. But as the centuries passed, the nation of Judah turned their backs on God. Again and again he urged them to return to him [3].

Isaiah (another prophet) painted a word picture of the events that would occur. He compared the kingdom of Judah and the throne of David’s descendants to a tree that would be cut down. All that would remain would be a stump–a remnant of the people [4].

Eleven years later, events unfolded just as Isaiah and four others prophets had foretold. Jehoiachin, the last legitimate king of Judah, was removed from his throne by the Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar.

Thousands of Judeans were taken captive so they’d see the error of their ways, seek forgiveness, and follow God once again [5].

But I praise you, Lord Jesus, that Isaiah’s word picture didn’t end there. He proclaimed that out of that hopeless, rotting stump would come a strong sapling.

Six centuries later, you came to earth, the only Righteous One of God, fulfilling that prophecy [6].

Not only were you from the lineage of David on your earthly father Joseph’s side, but also on your mother Mary’s side. This fulfilled the prophecies proclaiming you are the descendant of David that the Jewish people longed for: their Messiah [7].

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for coming to save your people–Jews and Gentiles alike. Because of your great mercy, you rescued me from the specter of hell, taking the punishment I deserved.

And now, the grave has no power over anyone who acknowledges you as their Rescuer [8]!

VERSE 5  

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for possessing the Key of David. That’s significant because a key indicates authority over a domain.  

King David was given authority to rule over all Israel; you rule over all mankind. In fact, God has seated you at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, all power and dominion [9].

Out of your magnificence and perfection, you’ve prepared heaven for your people—a place of utter tranquility, blissful and continual joy, eternal and lavish love—beyond what we can imagine.

I praise you, Lord Jesus! You’ve opened wide the gates of heaven; you hold open the door of opportunity for all to enter [10].

As you’ve promised, one day you’ll return and take your children home along “the heavenward road.” Then you will shut the door upon death once and for all [11].

REFRAIN

In all of this and more I REJOICE! You are my Rescuer, saving me from the greatest enemy of all: death.

I praise You, Lord Jesus, for graciously providing the way heavenward. I REJOICE in you, my Savior, my Lord, my King!

[1] Ace Collins, Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas,127; Isaiah 59:20; John 1:40-49; Romans 6:23; Revelation 11:15.

[2] From www.hymnary.org. (Lyrics vary depending on the source.)

[3] Jeremiah 23:5; 1 Samuel 13:14; Isaiah 3:8-9; 55:7

[4] Isaiah 11:1, 10

[5] 2 Kings 24:8-17; 25:21; Isaiah 55:7; Joel 2:12-13

[6] Acts 22:14; 3:18

[7] Matthew 1; Luke 3; Jeremiah 23:5-6

[8] Psalm 86:13 GW; 56:13; Ephesians 1:17; Romans 8:11

[9] Revelation 3:17; Matthew 28:18; Ephesians 1:20—22

[10] Isaiah 22:22; Revelation 3:7

[11] John 14:1-3; Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 21:4

Art and photo credits: http://www.pixexid.com; http://www.stockvault.net; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.pixahive.com; http://www.stockvault.net; http://www.pixexid.com; http://www.stockvault.net.

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Let God Love on You Today

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Delight, God's Faithfulness, God's Grace, God's Love, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on November 16, 2023| 39 Comments »

Have you noticed that Bible verses about God’s love often include one particular adjective? In the New International Version, translators chose the word unfailing, as in:

I trust in your unfailing love.

Psalm 13:5 NIV

 Just in the psalms alone of that version you’ll find the phrase unfailing love used at least twenty-seven times.

Even more interesting, look up those same verses in other translations and you’ll find no less than eight different expressions in place of unfailing love, including:

  • Gracious love (International Standard Version)
  • Devoted love (Berean Standard Bible)
  • Steadfast love (English Standard Version)
  • Constant love (Good News Translation)
  • Merciful love (New American Standard Bible)
  • Lovingkindness (Amplified Bible)
  • Faithful love (Holman Christian Standard Bible)
  • Loyal love (New English Bible) [1]

Each one adds to the wonder of an all-powerful King of the universe who delights in you, who treasures you.

Yes, he does.

So for the next few moments, let God love on you. Deliciate in the lavish love of your Heavenly Father. [2]

He would have you know:

My love for you, precious child, is gracious—

I do not just put up with you!

My grace to you is affirmation of my acceptance

and pleasure in you. [3]

My love for you is devoted—

caring, affectionate, and attentive.

Remember, I am always thinking about you;

I am always supplying your needs. [4]

My love for you is steadfast.

“No matter what you might do,

you don’t have to worry about letting Me down,

because you were never holding Me up.” [5]

My love for you is constant.

I already loved you before time began.

Regardless of your performance,

My love for you will never diminish. [6]

My love for you, dear one, is merciful—

forgiving, sympathetic, and ungrudging.

I’ve given you a dazzling crown of mercy and compassion;

will you not wear it? [7]

My love for you is full of kindness.

Through My Son I made it possible

for you to enjoy a rich and satisfying life.

I continually bless you with good things. [8]

My love for you is faithful.

Time and again I have “accomplished wonders,

plans formed long ago—with perfect faithfulness”—

To bless you, provide for you, grow you. [9]

My love for you is loyal—

Unchanging, unwavering, and unfailing.

The more you depend on Me,

The more dependable you will find me to be. [10]

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

I can scarcely believe that you, the God of the universe, with all your perfections and glory, would love me—with all my imperfections and shame. Yet you eagerly bestow your gracious favor in wondrous ways. Help me to continually rest in your unfailing love, free from anxiety and fear. Amen.  

How is God loving on you today? Please share in the comment section below!

Art & photo credits: http://www.pickpik.com (2); http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com; http://www.picryl.com (artist: Richard Jakopic); http://www.pickpik.com (2).

[1] In many Old Testament scriptures, it’s the multi-dimensional Hebrew word hesed (used nearly 250 times) that translators are trying to express.

[2] Based on a statement of Margaret Feinberg, Wonderstruck, 25.

[3] John 1:12; Psalm 147:11

[4] Psalm 139:17-18; Philippians 4:19

[5] Lysa Terkeurst, Embraced, 130.

[6] Jeremiah 31:3; 1 John 4:8; Romans 8:38-39

[7] Psalm 103:2-4

[8] John 10:10 NLT; Psalm 107:9 GNT

[9] Isaiah 25:1; Matthew 7:11; Psalm 23:1; Philippians 1:6

[10] James 1:17; Psalm 145:13b; Cliff Richard, https://www.searchquotes.com/search/Dependable_God/

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With Every Sunrise

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, Hope, Jesus, Joy, Praise, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on July 20, 2023| 49 Comments »

No matter how many sunrises a person might witness over a lifetime, who could tire of the majestic spectacle, with its mesmerizing shades of lavender, scarlet, apricot, and golden yellow—all aglow with the backlight of the sun, and each dawn different than all those before.

I’m filled with wonder as the morning sky begins to fill with light and “the heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship”[1].  He is the supreme Artist.

My favorite sunrise-displays are those when clouds are positioned just right to create magnificent gleaming rays reaching into infinity.

Perhaps God inspired the prophet Malachi with just such a sunrise as he wrote: “The Sun of Righteousness [our Messiah] will rise with healing in his wings for you people who fear my name”[2].

Wings refers to sunbeams, bringing to mind the unending healing of God’s forgiveness, available to all who put their trust in Jesus. He provides for us the dawning of a new day as we choose to move out of darkness and into his marvelous light [3].

Sunrise is also God’s daily reminder that his faithfulness is great and his mercies begin anew each morning . Perhaps he wanted us to understand that his faithfulness to us is as certain and consistent as the sunrise, yet full of surprise and creativity as well [4].

The dawn brings hope, reminding us that:

  • Just as the sun is bigger than any planet in our solar system, so God is bigger than any challenge we might face.
  • Just as the sun always shines whether in full view or behind clouds, God is always with us whether we sense his presence or not.
  • Just as the sun never fails to rise, so the Son will never fail to rise, bringing the light of his salvation, truth, and wisdom.
  • Yesterday’s disappointments and failures are past; a new day with fresh blessings and possibilities has dawned [5]!

In addition to hope, fresh joy comes with the morning light.

But to see the dawn and experience its pleasure, a person must look at the sunrise. If we’re going to see joy and experience its pleasure, we must look to the Son, the source of joy [6]. Then, each day becomes an opportunity to live in wild, blissful amazement of God.

When you do witness a glorious sunrise doesn’t it make you smile—if not on your face, then in your spirit? We can augment that joy with gratitude—not just for a breath-taking dawn, of course, but for all the beautiful, remarkable, and pleasurable things God generously bestows.

Author Roman Payne wrote in celebration of the sun: “O, Sunlight! The most precious gold to be found on Earth!” And surely we’d agree, a golden sunrise especially proves his point.

But just such a sunrise might better serve as a reminder to celebrate the Son:

O SonLight, more precious than all the gold to be found on Earth!

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

I praise you, God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, for your light that is brighter than the brilliance of a sunrise! You are the source of all blessing, the brightness of our days, and our guiding Light to show the way. Without you, life is like twilight with dark night ahead. But with you, it is the dawn of morning with the light and warmth of a full day ahead.

(Psalm 84:11 PTP; James 1:19; 2 Samuel 22:29; Psalm 119:105;

last sentence based on Philip Schaff quote.)

[1] Psalm 19:1 NLT

[2] Malachi 4:2a

[3] 1 Peter 2:9

[4] Lamentations 3:23, and an idea inspired by Eugene Peterson, Run with the Horses, pp. 115-116.

[5] Philippians 4:13; Psalm 23:4; 27:1; 119:105, 130; Ecclesiastes 2:13

[6] John 15:11

Photo credits: http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.peakpix.com; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.rawpixel.com.; http://www.peakpix.com.

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A Little Piece of Heaven on Earth

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Love, God's Presence, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , on May 25, 2023| 55 Comments »

John and me–1964 (?)

The third and last home of my childhood, the one we moved to when I was ten, is of course the one I remember best. With no effort at all I can conjure up the kitchen and imagine Mom at the sink, peeling potatoes for dinner, while I cut up veggies or fruit for a salad.

I can see Dad in the basement, working on his current carpentry project, and my younger brother John puttering with the wood scraps.

Surrounding us all–thanks to the speakers Dad had installed in every room–was the sweet and serene instrumental music of a nightly radio program called “Candlelight and Silver”.

Such memories provide clarity for a statement made by author and pastor Alexander Maclaren:

The memories of those evenings at home (as seen through rose-tinted glasses, I admit) help me understand: dwelling in God’s presence doesn’t mean constant awareness of him, any more than my family was constantly aware of the radio music.

We were occupied with other things and conversing with one another, yet influenced nonetheless by the beautiful and soothing melodies in the background.

But it wasn’t just the music that contributed to those peaceful times. It was the atmosphere of love. Mom and Dad were clearly devoted to one another.

And though disagreements certainly occurred, I don’t remember a single quarrel.

Between them they created a stable, supportive environment in which my brother and I could flourish.

(Had the opposite been true, and their relationship contentious, not even sweet melodies coming from the radio could have dispelled the resulting atmosphere of anger and tension.)

Similarly, our Heavenly Father’s presence is like sweet music because of the atmosphere of love he continually provides. After all:

Think of it: the Most High God of the universe is not just near; he is here. In this moment. With you. With me.

And we have the privilege of knowing him.

But wait! There’s more, and it’s even more incredible: This King of kings actually wants to dwell with us. “I have loved you with an everlasting love,” he declares with compassion. “I have drawn you with unfailing kindness”. [1]

So how do we train ourselves to hear that undercurrent of sweet Song?

We can start with daily scripture-reading and prayer, as well as weaving moments of worship and praise into our routines, so there’s never a day we aren’t in contact with God [2].

And what will be the result? Troubles will be made bearable, joys will be brightened, and a peaceful calm will permeate the atmosphere—even in the midst of busyness.

It’s true: “Dwelling [in the sweet music of God’s constant presence] is a little piece of heaven on earth”—Stephanie Bryant [3].

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

O Sovereign God! Thank you for singing over us your song of love, compassion, and faithfulness and gifting us with a little piece of heaven on earth.

Even when nothing else around us is good, the sweet music of your presence in the midst of deep pain is a good gift indeed [4].

And as we live in the undercurrent of your Song, may we learn to tune our hearts, our minds, our lives, to voice your melodies [5].

In the power of your name we pray, AMEN.

[1] Jeremiah 31:3

[2] See the previous blog post, Ten Ways to Keep Mindful of God.

[3] p. 367, A Moment to Breathe, Denise J. Hughes, ed.

[4] Aliza Lotta, Take Heart, p. 162, Grace P. Cho and Anna E. Rendell, ed.

[5] Douglas Kaine McKelvey, Every Moment Holy, p. 250.

Art & photo credits: Nancy Ruegg; wwwpublicdomainpictures.com (Sabine Sauermaul); http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.flickr (Faye Mozingo); http://www.pxhere.com.

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