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Hints of Heaven

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, Hope, Joy, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged 2 Corinthians 2:9, Glimpses of Heaven, Heaven, heaven on earth, Psalm 16:11 on April 18, 2016| 17 Comments »

Picture great cloudbanks gathered to the west, blocking the late afternoon sun except for several small openings. Through those fissures, glowing beams of ethereal light stretch earthward.

Have the windows of heaven actually opened so God’s celestial Light could burst forth?

So it seems.

Other glimpses of heaven present themselves, too.

Think of a perfect morning with a cloudless azure canopy overhead, soft, silken breezes brushing against your skin, and birds in every tree praising God with their songs. Heavenly, you might sigh. And no one would argue otherwise.

Consider standing atop a mountain for a long-distance view of God’s majestic creation—ridge upon ridge, as far as the eye can see, covered with countless trees, and teeming with wildlife.

Consider cradling a newborn infant for the first time—peering into a pixie face with Daddy’s eyes and Mommy’s chin, coaxing tiny fingers to grasp one of your own.

Consider embracing that long absent loved one, finally returned home safely, and seeing happy tears in his eyes through tears of your own.

Such euphoric moments surely provide us glimpses of heaven, a preview of the splendor to come that God has so lovingly prepared.

Yet there are more hints, when:

We sense God’s presence in the midst of a prayer, the melody of a song or the message of a timely scripture. “Heaven and earth are filled with his glory” (Isaiah 6:3; Psalm 8:1). Surely one hint of heaven is God with us now—everywhere and at all times.

We experience bona-fide God-enhanced moments, and holy God-bumps rise up on our skin. Perhaps you receive a phone call from someone you were just thinking about and praying for, or a thoughtful gift turns up on your doorstep the same day you received disheartening news. These are more than coincidences; they’re God-incidents.

We enter a peaceful, uplifting sanctuary with other folks who genuinely care about God’s ways and each other. Just entering the door lifts our spirits and warms our hearts. (The Church ought to offer the most brilliant glimpse of heaven.)

We revel in the sheer pleasure of worship, focused on celebrating our gracious God—a hint of the euphoric adoration of our King that we’ll enjoy in heaven.

We sing with focused passion and the angels seem to join us. The classic, “Total Praise” by Carolyn Cymbala, inspires just that kind of singing. Do you know it?

https://youtu.be/xCsJyzm83W0

We witness a healing. Who has not been moved to joyful tears when the illness abates, the lame walk, the blind see, the deaf hear?

https://youtu.be/3m3r5xoYod8

We join with the Holy Spirit to introduce someone to Jesus, and the person accepts him into his/her life. There. Is. No. Greater. Joy.

These twelve circumstances, some repeated frequently throughout our earthly lives, prove* that “heaven-on-earth” experiences are not rare.

As Psalm 16:11 makes clear:

In God’s presence (here and now) is fullness of joy. In his right hand, (held out to us daily) are pleasures forevermore.

But, these wondrous events we enjoy in the present are just hints of what God has prepared for us in the future, for those who love him (2 Corinthians 2:9).

Just think:

What is to come will be

more breath-taking,

more joyous,

more miraculous,

more exciting

YET!

*In my humble opinion!

(Art & photo credits: www.outdoor-photos.com; http://www.freebigpictures.com; http://www.pinterest.com (2).

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Indelibly Inscribed

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, God's Delight, God's Love, Jesus, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged God knows us intimately, God sees us perfected, God's Love, Hebrews 10:14, Isaiah 49:16, Psalm 149:4, We are God's delight on March 24, 2016| 18 Comments »

“Matt* and Loren* are coming to visit the weekend after next. Would you be able to join us for dinner that Saturday night?” I asked, Dave*, the worship leader of our church.

I had just arrived at ensemble practice. Dave was already there organizing music.

“Yeah, I’ll come. It’ll be great to catch up with them.” Matt and Loren were mutual friends who had moved away.

“We’ll probably eat around six, but come early—say five? That’ll give us more time to chat,” I added.

Dave whipped a pen off the piano and wrote a note to himself—on his hand.

I had to smile. Dave was/is one of the most creative, musically talented young men I’ve ever met. Not only is he a concert-trained pianist, he’s a composer with a gift for turning artful melodies into worship.

But in those days, he would have been the first to tell you that keeping track of details or appointments was a challenge; thus the notes-on-the-hand habit. If the commitment was right there in front of him, he’d most likely remember to put it on his calendar later. The message wouldn’t be forgotten amidst all the ideas and musical themes racing through his head.

I know someone else who writes information on the palm of his hand. The information is your name and mine. The someone? Our Heavenly Father.

(“See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.”

–Isaiah 49:16 NIV)

Of course, this assurance was addressed to the people of Israel, but it’s applicable to each of us, because: 1) those of us who believe in Jesus have been adopted into Abraham’s family (Galatians 3:6-9), and 2) God does not lose sight of the individual within the multitude (Luke 3:3-7).

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

–St. Augustine

But don’t think of God’s love as perfunctory or pity-driven.

You are a treasure to your Heavenly Father—the delight of his heart (Deuteronomy 7:6; Psalm 149:4).

You and I are constantly in his thoughts (Psalm 139 17-18).

And the imagery of our names engraved (cut, carved, or etched) on his palms brings to mind several important truths:

God cannot and will not forget us or abandon us.

His omniscient knowledge doesn’t just include our names, but also who we are—our personalities, dreams, circumstances, strengths and weaknesses—everything about us—is on his mind.

Our images engraved on God’s palms represent an incredible role reversal. In ancient times, slaves bore the brand mark of their masters. But our Master has sacrificially submitted himself to inscribe our names on his palms.

The image represents who we are becoming in God’s view, which is undoubtedly different from ours. “Reality is not what we see; reality is what God sees” (Biblical Illustrator). And that reality is perfection.

(“By one sacrifice he has made perfect forever

those who are being made holy.”

–Hebrews 10:14 NIV)

Of course, that one sacrifice was Jesus, who bled and died on a cross so we might be made right with God and receive the gift of eternal life.

As a result, Isaiah 49:16 (about our names written on God’s palms) has taken on new meaning:

“See, I have engraved you—in blood—on the palms of my hands.”

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, Heavenly Father, that it is totally impossible for you to forget your own. How humbling to realize I am engraved on your hands—hands that withstood the nails for me. But gratitude alone is terribly insufficient.

I want your name, Lord, engraved on my palms, so I might become that perfected reality you already see.

*Names have been changed.

Art & photo credits: www.pinterest.com (3)

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From the Pig Sty

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Salvation, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged Colossians 1:21-22, God's Forgiveness, God's Love, Hebrews 8:12, Jeremiah 31:3, Luke 15:11-24, Psalm 91:15, The Prodigal Son on March 10, 2016| 16 Comments »

(Based on the story of the Prodigal Son, Luke 15:11-24)

Eliab plodded to the top of a familiar rise. Just ahead he could see the flat rooftop of his ancestral home. Eliab’s heart began to drum in his ears, his face grew hot with shame, and sweat trickled down his back. Soon Eliab would face his father.

As he watched his feet take one step after another, thoughts circled around one question:

What would his father say?

Perhaps, “Get out of my sight! I no longer have two sons, only one.”

Perhaps, “Alright, Eliab, you may work in the fields and barn to pay back your debt. You may also sleep in the barn and take your meals with the other hired hands. Such flagrant waste of your inheritance must be recompensed.”

Eliab would soon know the response that would determine his fate. He looked up once again to check his progress. A man was running toward him down the road. What would cause him to be in such a hurry?

No sooner had the question formed in his mind than he recognized the bearing of the approaching figure. It was his father. Eliab’s knees grew weak, and not just from hunger. He collapsed to the ground in a heap, tears streaming down his face.

Quick steps approached; strong arms lifted Eliab up and grasped him in a tight embrace. He heard his father cry, “Oh, Eliab!” And together they wept.

Moments passed and Eliab steeled himself for the speech he had prepared during his long journey.

“Father,” he choked, “I’ve sinned against God and I’ve sinned before you. I know I can no longer be considered your son, but…”

Eliab’s father wasn’t even listening. He turned to call out to his servants, “Get a clean set of clothes and new sandals. Bring the family signet ring. Then prepare the grain-fed heifer for roasting. We are going to have the grandest celebration our village has ever seen! My son that was as good as dead to me is alive again!”

And with that, Eliab, caretaker of pigs, was lavishly honored because his father:

Forgave him for being so foolish, squandering his inheritance.
Restored his position in the family, symbolized by the specific request of shoes. (Family members wore shoes; slaves did not.)
Clothed him in fresh, clean robes.
Honored him with the signet ring, a symbol of authority.
Loved him, pure and simple.

Now I’ve never been a caretaker of pigs. You probably haven’t been either. But I’ve certainly committed my own foolish acts of selfish rebellion. Maybe you have, too.

And yet, when we throw ourselves on God’s mercy, he

Forgives our sins and remembers them no more (Hebrews 8:12).
Adopts us into his family, making us his children (John 1:12-13).
Clothes us in the righteousness of Jesus (Isaiah 61:10), and God sees us as if we had never sinned (Colossians 1:21-22).
Honors us (Psalm 91:15)—with his presence and countless gifts. Someday we’ll receive a crown of glory that will never fade away (1 Peter 5:4).
Loves us, pure and simple, for now and always (Jeremiah 31:33).

* * * * * * * * * *

How I thank you, Heavenly Father, for taking pity on me, as the father did in the story of the prodigal son. You redeemed my life from the pig sty. You forgive my sins–every one of them. You have more than satisfied me with your goodness and faithful love. Never do I want to lose the wonder of your love and grace!

(Psalm 103:1-5, 13)

Eliab means “to whom God is Father.”

(Art & photo credits: www.childrenschapel.org; http://www.ncregister.som; http://www.susaneball.com; http://www.spiritualinspiration.tumblr.com.)

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A Most Astounding Privilege

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged 2 Corinthains 6:18, 2 Corinthians 6:16, Friends with God, God abides with us, God draws near to us, God never gives up on us, God never lets us go, God's Love, God's Presence, John 14:6, Psalm 103:8, Zephaniah 3:17 on January 25, 2016| 22 Comments »

One custom of our church community includes the babies and toddlers. Toward the end of the worship service, many parents collect their little ones and bring them to the sanctuary for the closing praise songs.

When our two-year old granddaughter, Elena, arrives, she starts out in Mommy’s arms, then clambers to Daddy, then over to Papa (my husband, Steve), and finally to Nana—that’s me.

Last Sunday she was particularly affectionate—arms around my neck, head nestled on my shoulder. Every now and then she’d lift her head to give me a kiss on the cheek. I held her close and kissed her silken hair.

(Who could resist snuggling with this?!)

Please understand: Elena is a typical toddler. She knows what she wants and when she wants it (usually NOW!). Her expressive cries can be quite vociferous. But those traits of stubbornness and impatience—seen in most toddlers–don’t diminish my love for her. Not a bit.

I reveled in that moment of tenderness at church, while swaying to the music and singing of our love for God. In my mind’s eye, I saw myself as the child, held in the close embrace of my Father, who lovingly forgives my sins and casts them as far as the east is from the west.

What an astounding privilege he grants us—to participate in close, familial communion with him, the King of the Universe!

Day in and day out our glorious and powerful God draws near to us:

Through creation. Just this morning, he draped pink cloud-ribbons across a crystalline sky, turning our minds to him and his infinite genius. Almighty God orchestrates every intricate aspect of life on our planet, yet we can know him as our gracious and compassionate Father.

Through his Word. Just this week I had occasion to study the word, abide, found in John 14:6. “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever” (KJV). First I looked up the word in the dictionary, and discovered abide means much more than just being with someone. Abide also includes persevering under (!) and tolerating (!), in addition to remaining in one place, to continue or endure. I had to smile at the tongue-in-cheek humor. And I prayed, “Oh, Lord, thank you for loving me that much!

Through people. A young woman at our new church has been enthusiastically friendly. And though I’ve told her I appreciate her kindness, I doubt she can fully understand how her interest, hugs, and effervescence have ministered to me. God draws near with his joy each time we meet.

Through circumstances. Hugs and kisses from a toddler are just one precious example that makes me mindful of God’s love for me.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Father, I shake my head in wonder to think

You long for us to be your familial friends.

I praise you for your abundant, gracious love,

Motivating you to reveal yourself

Through creation,

People, circumstances,

Your word, and more.

In fact, you are intimately involved

In every moment of our lives.

Thank you for blessing us

With your abiding presence,

Even though it requires of you

Great tolerance and perseverance!

We cling to you, our Source of

Strength, wisdom, and provision.

You are with us and in us,

Always drawing us closer to you.

Thank you for never giving up

And never letting go.

(2 Corinthians 6:16, 18; Psalm 103:8; Psalm 19:1-4;

Matthew 5:14, 16; Psalm 92:4; 2 Timothy 3:16-17;

Psalm 139:1-5; Zephaniah 3:17; James 1:17;

Isaiah 41:10; 1 Corinthians 3:16; James 4:8;

Philippians 1:6; John 10:28.)

(Photo credits: Nancy Ruegg, and http://www.wallpaperup.com.)

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Mountain Metaphor

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Power, God's Protection, God's Refuge, God's Strength, Uncategorized, tagged 2 Timothy 2:19, Deuteronomy 33:27, God Never Changes, God's Protection, God's Reliability, God's Strength, Psalm 125:2, Psalm 36:6, Psalm 61:2, Psalm 89:8 on January 11, 2016| 8 Comments »

From the backseat of my grandparents’ car, I strained to catch my first glimpse of the Smokey Mountains. The day before the three of us had left home in Aurora, Illinois and were on our way to Conyers, Georgia to visit friends of theirs.

(We traveled in style, in Grandpa’s 1950-something turquoise Studebaker.)

What an adventure for a six-year old. Up until that time, I’d only visited one other state, neighboring Indiana.

Grandma had told me that mountains were like hills, only much, much taller. And instead of being a single mound (like the rise we sledded on in the wintertime), they were lined up one after another.

My imagination could hardly conjure a picture of such a phenomenon.

That second day of our trip, as we rounded the top of yet another hill in Tennessee, my straining paid off. Far in the distance we caught sight of mountain tops. Each rise thereafter afforded another spectacular view, always a bit closer to the peaks, and even more mesmerizing than the last. My breaths came in startled gasps. Never had I seen such magnificence…

…until, at age fifteen, when I traveled to Colorado for a week at Young Life’s Frontier Ranch. The soaring, steep cliffs of the Rockies dwarfed the more rounded Smokies.

Ah, but then came the semester-long, short-term missionary adventure in Quito, Ecuador, a city nestled in the Andes Mountains at 10,000 feet. Thirty miles to the south, Cotopaxi towers over the city, at 19,000 feet above sea level. Again, my breath was taken away.

“Mountains are earth’s undying monuments,” said Nathaniel Hawthorne.

Indeed, they do stand tribute to their Maker, ancient testimonials to God’s awe-inspiring, creative power.

They also provide a meaningful metaphor, because certain adjectives we use to describe mountains, also describe Him:

High

(“Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” — Psalm 61:2)

Firm

“God’s solid foundation

stands firm.”

–2 Timothy 2:19a

Strong

(“O LORD God of Heaven’s Armies!

Where is there anyone as mighty as you, O LORD?

You are entirely faithful.” –Psalm 89:8, NLT)

Immoveable

“I the Lord do not change.”

–Malachi 3:6a

Eternal

(“The eternal God is your refuge.” — Deuteronomy 33:27a)

One of the psalmists, perhaps King Hezekiah, wrote:

“As the mountains surround Jerusalem,

so the Lord surrounds his people

both now and forevermore.”

–Psalm 125:2

(Emphasis added)

Imagine yourself surrounded by high, strong and secure mountains.

Are they likely to crumble? No. Neither will your Almighty God fall to pieces, succumbing to the pressure of insurmountable problems. It can’t happen!

Do mountains change with every passing breeze? No. Neither can your Lord be shaken.

Are you easily accessible when surrounded by mountains? No. You are protected. Mountains can even act as barriers against stormy weather. Similarly God shelters you from the full brunt of the storms of life.

And what is your view from this protected valley? Your eyes are drawn upward toward peaks and sky, indicative of the appropriate response when we’re facing difficulty:

Look up to the Maker of mountains

and Provider of refuge.

His righteousness is like the mighty mountains.

He surrounds us with his favor and loving kindness,

encircles us in his everlasting arms of love,

and guards us by his providence on all sides.

Hallelujah!

(Psalm 36:6; Psalm 32:10; Deuteronomy 33:27; Psalm 32:7).

(Art & photo credits: www.youtube.com; http://www.tripadvisor.com; http://www.gatlinburg.com; http://www.mountainlake.com; http://www.cotopaxinoticias.com; http://www.pinterest.com (3), http://www.wikipedia.org.)

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Our Persevering God

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged God is slow to get angry, God never gives up on us, God works for our good, God's Compassion, God's Grace, God's Kindness, God's Love, God's Patience, Psalm 103:8 on November 23, 2015| 14 Comments »

(The Lord is compassionate and gracious,

Slow to anger

And rich in faithful love.

–Psalm 103:8, HCSB)

Oh God,

As I skim through the memories of six-plus(!) decades, I see much evidence of these attributes in my life:

Compassion

I praise you that you’ve always looked upon me with compassion, not condemnation. Not one moment of struggle in my life has slipped by your attention unnoticed. And with that attention has come your sympathy. You’ve completely understood every situation I’ve faced, and shared in the physical pain, emotional hurts, and spiritual battles as they’ve come.

How comforting to know that you see my circumstances and sympathize. But even more precious? Your love compels you to express that compassion with encouragement, strength, and support. Each day you bestow new mercies. You never give up on me.

Grace

Oh, how thankful I am that you are a God full of loving kindness. What relief to know your gift of salvation is not based on my effort but on your grace.

Your blessings flow continuously, not based on my faith, but on your benevolent nature.

Even more wondrous, you dwell within me, bestowing peace, joy, wisdom, and more—not because I am righteous and deserving, but because you are righteous and dedicated to my highest welfare.

Patience (Slow to anger)

One evidence of your grace is patience. As a parent and teacher, I’ve learned a little about the attribute of patience—mostly how difficult it is! Little ones can ask countless silly questions, frequently test the limits of acceptable conduct, and behave quite selfishly.

How shameful to admit I still demonstrate such traits. I, too, ask frivolous questions. When troubles assault, I want to know Why, God? I test the limits of your grace with my shallowness, failings, and stubborn streak. And as for selfish behavior, that tendency hasn’t died yet either.

Some Bible translators have used the word longsuffering in place of patience. You have suffered long as you’ve trained me! Step by laborious step you gently guide me toward maturity. And one day my character will be complete, lacking in nothing because of your great forbearance with me.

Love

How can I begin to thank you, God, for the treasure of your undying love? You brought me to faith in Jesus as a child, gave me a place in your forever family, and bequeathed to me an eternal inheritance in heaven. As I wait for that reality, I revel in your faithful love that:

Expresses itself continually, day after day
Attends to what will be in my best interest
Willingly and patiently endures the pain of rejection and disappointment, because of my rebellion
Disciplines me as any loving parent trains his/her dear children
“Perseveres until it perfects” (Philip Yancey)

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, Holy Father, that day after day you manifest these attributes in my life. I am encouraged by your compassion, blessed by all facets of your grace, guided by your patient Spirit, and strengthened by the richness of your faithful love. I can never praise you enough for your magnificence!

(Art & photo credits: www.pinterest.com (3); http://www.dailytimewithgod.com; http://www.pinterest.com.)

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Eyes of Love, Mercy, and Grace

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Promises, God's Provision, Hope, Uncategorized, tagged Beer Lahai Roi, El Roi, Genesis 16:1-14, God sees, God watches over us, Hagar, Proverbs 15:3, Psalm 103:13-14, Psalm 139:1-4, Psalm 141:8, Psalm 34:15 on November 16, 2015| 14 Comments »

All alone she sat–a runaway–heart pounding with fear.

This was not the way she imagined events would unfold. Just weeks before opportunity had blossomed with possibilities–a life of security, provision, and honor seemed assured . But those dreams dissolved in a moment.

If only I’d kept my mouth shut, she thought. What a fool to think I could get away with those snide remarks. But my mind was consumed with the unfairness of it all, and I was so jealous—jealous that she would hold the place of honor, not me. To her I was nothing more than a vessel.

Fresh anger quieted her fear for a moment, as Hagar replayed the events that led her to sit by a spring in the desert, beside the road to Shur.

When Sarai, her mistress, had first suggested she become a substitute wife to Abram, Hagar foresaw a better life for herself. Surely the mother of the master’s son would hold a secure position in the household. She would be well provided for and respected by everyone.

But then the full meaning of “substitute wife” became clear. Hagar realized the child within her would not be her own but Sarai’s. Hagar began to express her frustration and jealousy toward Sarai in spiteful, unkind ways. She couldn’t seem to help herself.

Finally, Sarai hit her and Hagar ran.

Now what? Returning to Egypt seemed the only option. Her desperate hope was to find a home in need of a servant girl—even if she was pregnant.

Hagar shaded her eyes and peered down the road, willing a caravan to come along. If she attempted to cross the desert alone, it would mean certain death.

Instead of a caravan, however, a man approached. Little small talk ensued; he gave her an instruction (“Return to your mistress and do as she says.”); and he gave her a promise (“You will have a son, and descendants too numerous to count”).

It wasn’t until the stranger left that Hagar realized she had been visited by the angel of the Lord, and she named the place, Beer Lahai Roi, “Well of the Living One who sees me” (Genesis 16:1-14).

Imagine. A servant girl in a foreign country, completely alone and pregnant. She herself had compounded her troubles. Yet God sought her out, to instruct and encourage her.

The Good Shepherd has always sought–and always will seek after–his lost sheep.

And then, with eyes of love, grace, and mercy, the Lord saw Hagar–

understanding every facet of her predicament, her motives and reactions
caring passionately about what would happen to her
mercifully forgiving her missteps and regretful behavior (Notice he didn’t say a word of reproach about her actions!)
giving instruction for what to do next
graciously providing for her needs
offering hope for her future

And still today, our God is the Living One who sees us with the same love, grace, and mercy.

He understands our situations, motives, and reactions (Psalm 139:1-4).
He cares passionately about what happens to us (Psalm 103:13-14).
He mercifully forgives our sins and refuses to even remember them (Isaiah 43:25).
He instructs us in the way we should go (Psalm 32:8).
He provides for our needs (Romans 8:32).
He offers hope for our future (Jeremiah 29:11).

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, Heavenly Father, that your eyes are upon the righteous—not because of any godly deeds we might accomplish, but because you see us through the righteousness of Jesus. And, oh how I thank you that you don’t just see us, you are watching over us. In these troubling, fear-inducing times, we turn our eyes upon you, our sovereign God, our refuge.

(Psalm 34:15; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Proverbs 15:3; Psalm 141:8)

(Photo & art credits: www.christian-resources-today.com; http://www.assets.faithgateway.com; http://www.prayerpins.org.)

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God’s Loving Grip

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Love, Hope, Joy, Suffering, tagged 2 Corinthians 11:25-27, Colossians 2:15, God's Love, John 3:16, Nothing can separate us from God's love, Psalm 139:7-10, Psalm 63:3, Romans 8:38-39 on November 5, 2015| 10 Comments »

“I am convinced that neither death nor life,

neither angels nor demons,

neither the present nor the future,

nor any powers,

neither height nor depth,

nor anything else in all creation,

will be able to separate us from the love of God

that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

–Romans 8:38-39

Consider the author of these lofty, poetic words: Paul—a man who endured beatings, stonings, shipwrecks, danger, sleepless nights, extreme hunger and thirst, and exposure to the elements (1).

Yet in spite of all these hardships, Paul never thought, Maybe God doesn’t love me anymore. No, he was convinced otherwise. And he wanted to assure his readers, including us today, that nothing can come between the believer and his/her God:

“Neither death nor life…”

Every moment of our lives God is watching over us, working out his plans that will achieve the highest good. Sometimes that includes suffering, for reasons we don’t always understand.

But consider: the greatest tragedy of history, the cruel torture and death of God’s perfect Son on a cross, brought about the most glorious consequence–the eternal salvation of all who believe (2).

And when we die? God will still be watching over us (3). Visit a dying Christian and you will be the one encouraged by their God-given peace, joy, and expectation.

“Neither angels nor demons…”

Long ago, the rabbis believed some angels were grudgingly hostile to men, not wanting to share God with earthly creatures. Perhaps Paul was saying, “Even jealous angels can do nothing to separate us from God’s love” (William Barclay).

As for demons, they were defeated when Jesus died on the cross (4). Granted, they may prowl around and cause mischief, but they are powerless to sever us from God’s love. Their teeth were removed at Calvary!

“Neither the present nor the future…”

Sometimes we worry about the future. Will we be able to handle potential calamities down the road? Or, perhaps it’s the present that’s unbearable, and we wonder if better days will ever dawn.

But our omniscient God has never been surprised by any turn of events. What he says here (through Paul) is a guaranteed promise: nothing present or future—no circumstance–can separate us from his loving presence.

“Nor any powers…”

All powers of the universe—whether physical or spiritual—are subject to God, because he alone is the Omnipotent One. No one supersedes him.

“Neither height nor depth…”

Many in Paul’s day believed that the star a person was born under controlled that person’s destiny. Height referred to a star’s zenith; depth to the star’s lowest point in the sky. Paul may have been assuring his readers that the stars have no power over our lives.

By contrast, our Star of David, Jesus, is like the North Star. He never waxes and wanes; he never changes. And his love is present everywhere (5).

“Nor anything else in all creation…”

No circumstance, no place, no person can remove us from God’s love. “God never loses his loving grip on his children” (Keith Krell, www.bible.org).

And so Paul covered every eventuality that might separate us from the love of God and assured us: It. Can’t. Happen. Surely, if Paul was convinced, after all he suffered, shouldn’t we be convinced as well?

* * * * * * * * * *

Day after day, Father, you express your love to us: forgiving our sins, transforming our spirits, defending us from spiritual enemies, showering us with blessings. We praise you for the warm embrace of your love—a love that spans all time and space, overcomes all pain and suffering, and defeats every foe! “Because your love is better than life, [our] lips will glorify you” (6).

(1) 2 Corinthians 11:25-27

(2) John 3:16

(3) Psalm 23:4

(4) Colossians 2:15

(5) Psalm 139:7-10

(6) Psalm 63:3

Photo credit: www.doughusen.com; http://www.klove.com; http://www.verseoftheday.com; http://www.pinterest.com.

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The Face of God — Revisited

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Power, God's Strength, Uncategorized, tagged 1 Chronicles 16:8-34, God's Character, Numbers 6:25-26, Proverbs 16:15 on October 15, 2015| 2 Comments »

(Steve and I are enjoying time with family this week. I’ll return soon with new posts. Meanwhile, I’ll reblog previous ones. Hopefully you’ll find them meaningful again, or perhaps for the first time. The following post was first published November 14, 2013.)

(“The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”– Numbers 6:25-26)

Lovely, poetic words. But what do those phrases about God’s face mean? Even if God’s face did shine upon me, or turn toward me, how would I know? I’ve never seen God; no one has (1 John 4:12).

A little research turned up this explanation: God’s face represents his character.

Read those verses from Numbers again. But this time replace the word face with the word character. The meaning becomes clearer.

The Lord make his character shine upon you

And be gracious to you;

The Lord turn his character toward you

And give you peace.

How many of God’s character traits can you name? David named seven in a psalm of thanksgiving found in 1 Chronicles 16:8-34. God is:

Powerful (v. 9)
Strong (v. 11)
Trustworthy (v. 15)
Majestic (v. 27)
Holy (v. 29)
Good (v. 34)
Loving (v. 34)

This brief list is just the beginning of descriptors we could name about God. He is infinite; his attributes are infinite!

All of those character traits and more are shining upon our lives, as he cares for us, lives in us,and participates with us every moment of our lives.

His power works miracles.
His strength carries us through difficult times.
He can be trusted to always do what is best.
His supreme majesty speaks of his authority over the universe.
He is righteous and holy in all he does.
Out of his goodness he provides countless blessings.
And all of this is graciously given, not out of a sense of duty because he made us, but because he loves us.

God’s face shining upon us represents God’s radiance.

If we insist on following our own way, as Israel did, he may choose to hide his face from us (Isaiah 1:15).

But.

“When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring” (Proverbs 16:15).

When the King of the universe shines his favor upon us, what more could we want? Life for us is not mere existence. It is a rich, full life–rich with blessings, and full of satisfaction, peace, and joy!

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Almighty God, for manifesting your character in my life. I have seen you work miracles and give strength to the weak. I have watched as you engineered circumstances to accomplish your plan. (And it always turned out to be a hundred times better than anything I could dream up!)

I marvel at your power and majesty on display in creation. I have recorded hundreds of blessings you’ve provided for our family. Your radiance shines brilliantly all around me.

And now, as a thank you gift back to you, dear Father, may my life reflect your radiance to others—with ever-increasing glory (2 Corinthians 3:18).

* * * * * * * * * *

How has God shone his face upon you? Please share in the Comments below!

(art credit: www.christianwordart.com)

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Extreme Makeover

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, Godly Character, Maturity, Perseverance, tagged 2 Corinthians 5:17, Becoming our true selves in Jesus, Colossians 3:10, Isaiah 43:19, Lamentations 3:22-23, New life in Christ on September 21, 2015| 11 Comments »

(Remember Susan Boyle?)

Makeovers. What a remarkable change-of-appearance can be achieved with a becoming hairstyle (and maybe color-enhancement!), deftly applied make-up, and well-fitted clothing. Add the benefit of plastic surgery and a person hardly resembles her former self.

But the transformation of someone’s face and body doesn’t begin to compare to the transformation of someone’s spirit.

Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person.

The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

–2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT)

Notice: We’re not just improved and beautified. Jesus remakes each of us into a brand new person.

And what might that newness include? Here’s a partial list:

New purpose

(“Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

–1 Corinthians 10:31b)

Those who follow this directive discover an interesting phenomenon: honoring God brings satisfaction and fulfillment to us. (By the way, God is not on some ego trip, demanding us to give him all the glory. He desires his splendor and benevolence to be evident everywhere, so others might be drawn to him.)

New attitude resulting in new character

(“Put on your new nature and be renewed

As you learn to know your Creator and become like him.”

–Colossians 3:10)

The more we know of God and appreciate all his benefits, the more we want to please him by following his example. That new attitude impacts every aspect of our lives.

New perspective

(“Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life.”

–Psalm 23:6)

Just knowing God has our best interest at heart is enough to renew energy and hope.

New power to face what comes

(“[He] is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,

according to his power that is at work within us.”

–Ephesians 3:20)

Think of it: the same power that controls the universe is at work within us. Tell me again why we revert to worrying?!

New emotions, such as peace and joy

(“The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking,

but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.”

–Romans 14:17)

We do not need to live at the mercy of our circumstances. With God as our constant companion, we can experience peace and joy in spite of what happens. The Bible is full of examples of people who lived that way: Joseph, Daniel, Peter, and Paul readily come to mind.

New confidence

(“The Lord will be your confidence.”

–Proverbs 3:26a)

God is not only with us, he is our Protector, Provider, and Guide. As we become increasingly aware of his faithfulness, our trust grows. Trust = confidence.

New opportunities and blessings

(“The faithful love of the LORD never ends!

His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness;

his mercies begin afresh each morning.”

–Lamentations 3:22-23 (NLT)

Experience tells us that when we say “yes” to Jesus, God does not bestow the full measure of all of these wonderful new things instantaneously. God told Isaiah: “Behold I am doing a new thing” (Isaiah 43:19). That hints at process. We’re made new, but growing into that newness.

Think of buying a coat in the fall that’s a little too big for your child. She owns the coat, but it doesn’t quite fit yet. Within a matter of weeks however, the sleeves hit the wrist not the fingertips, and the shoulder seams sit properly–no sagging down the arms.

Might it be that when we invite Jesus in our lives, our spirits are made new, but we don’t quite fit into them yet? Then, as we cooperate with Holy Spirit and his fruit grows within us (Galatians 5:22-23), we steadily become more Christ-like, day by day.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Father, I don’t want to cling to aspects of the old me—things like worry, perfectionism, selfishness, and pride. I want to embrace everything new that YOU bring to my life, to become my true self—the one you designed me to be.**

**Based on idea from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young, Thomas Nelson, p. 381.

Photo credits: www.joblogging.weebly.com; http://www.ilovemybible.tumblr.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.dayofgrace.me; http://www.faithgateway.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.slideshare.net; http://www.plus.google.com; pinterest.com (2).

Share your thoughts in the comment section below. I’d love to hear from you!

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Extreme Makeover

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