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Hooray! / Oh Dear!

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Excellence, God's Faithfulness, God's Promises, Joy, Obedience, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged Dueteronomy 7:9, Isaiah 1:9, John 15:14, Luke 11:28, Obedience and Abundance, Obedience to God, Obedience to God's Word, Proverbs 16:20, Psalm 119:2, Psalm 19:8, Psalm 34:9 on February 1, 2024| 51 Comments »

When our daughter Heather was a child, she would sometimes entertain herself and her little brother Jeremy with stories she’d create.

These weren’t ordinary stories, however. Each part of the story was to be followed by a response, such as HOORAY or OH DEAR. Jeremy would supply those. Heather told her story so the responses alternated.

For example:

One day Mrs. Brown said to her children, “Let’s go on a picnic!” (HOORAY!)

But while they were getting ready it started to rain. (OH DEAR!)

Mrs. Brown said, “Don’t worry, we’ll have a picnic in the family room!” (HOORAY!)

Billy Brown counted out apples for everyone. “Uh-oh!” he said. “We don’t have enough apples!” (OH DEAR!)

You get the idea.

Some of us have read Bible promises with the same HOORAY/OH DEAR responses. (Although we’d probably exchange HOORAY for HALLELUJAH!)

Take Deuteronomy 7:9, for example. We read, “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations . . .” And our response might be HALLELUJAH!

Then we read the second part: “. . . of those who love him and keep his commandments” (emphasis added). (OH DEAR.)

Here are two more examples:

“You will eat the good things of the land . . .” (HALLELUJAH!) “. . . if you are willing and obedient”–Isaiah 1:19. (OH DEAR.)

Or this assurance from Jesus: “You are my friends . . . ,” (HALLELUJAH!) “. . . if you do what I command”–John 15:14. (OH DEAR).

I can’t speak for you but often I’m glad to claim God’s promises, then struggle to comply with the prerequisite: God’s directives—even though I know that sinful, self-centered behaviors can get me into trouble and won’t produce long-term contentment.

I so easily forget:

What blessing might Jesus have had in mind when he made that promise? Actually, the Bible lists a number of blessings tied to obedience. Here’s a starter-list of ten:

1. God’s watchful care. “The eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him” (Psalm 33:18).

2. Prosperity of soul. “Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord” (Proverbs 16:20).

3. Joy of heart. “The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart” (Psalm 19:8).

Jesus isn’t trying to make your life miserable by calling you to obey his word. He wants you to abide in his love and have fullness of joy! God doesn’t give us his word to keep us from life. He gives us his word so we can walk in abundance of life.
Melissa Kruger, Growing Together, 50

4. Freedom from shame. “Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees! Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands” (Psalm 119:5-6).

5. Freedom from fear. “Surely the righteous will never be shaken . . . They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord” (Psalm 112:6a, 8a).

6. Peace of mind. “Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (Psalm 119:165).

When we obey with a right heart from a place of love, we experience a joy and peace we’d never know otherwise.
Denise Hughes, Deeper Waters, 149.

7. Blessing upon our grandchildren. “The Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children—with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts” (Psalm 103:17-18).

8. Wisdom. “The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7b).

9. Joy of knowing Jesus intimately. “The one who has My commands and keeps them is the one who loves Me. . . I also will love him and will reveal Myself to him” (John 14:21 HCSB).

If I obey Jesus Christ in the seemingly random circumstances of life, they become pinholes through which I see the face of God.
Oswald Chambers

10. Everything we need and then some. “Those who obey him have all they need . . . Those who obey the Lord lack nothing good” (Psalm 34:9 GNT).

When we yield in obedience to God’s voice he yields a harvest greater than we can imagine.
Denise Hughes, Deeper Waters, 149

We know it’s true: disobedience can lead to disaster. (OH DEAR!)

But even the short list of blessings listed above proves:

Obedience leads to abundance.

(HALLELUJAH–and thank you, Lord!)

* * * * * * * * * *

O God, I praise you for your promises that assure me: when I follow your ways, all will be well. Give me understanding so I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart–moment by moment. May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees, so I won’t be put to shame!

Jeremiah 7:23; Psalm 119:34, 80

Photo credits: Steve Ruegg; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.freerangestock.com (Chad Madden); http://www.canva.com (2).

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S-l-o-w Looking

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Joy, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged Attentiveness, Bible study questions, Evidence of God's presence, Jeremiah 9:24, Meditating on God, Nehemiah 8:10, Psalm 18:16 on January 18, 2024| 41 Comments »

Most visitors to an art museum spend fifteen to thirty seconds looking at a painting, but art enthusiasts insist that’s not near long enough to fully enjoy each work.

Take for example da Vinci’s world-famous Mona Lisa. You’ve seen photographs; some of you may have viewed the original at the Louvre. Besides the model’s haunting expression, what makes this painting stand out from others?

First, note da Vinci’s use of shadow to give contour to the face and clothing. As a result, daVinci achieved more realism than other painters of his time.

Second, enlarge the image above and study da Vinci’s masterful attention to detail—the intricate gathers of the bodice, the graceful tendrils of her hair, the next-to-nothing veil.

Third, focus on the background. Mona Lisa appears to be sitting in front of a window with a lovely view of mountains, trees, and a lake. Da Vinci used a technique called foreshortening to condense the wide scene onto his narrow canvas.

Fourth, note the hazy atmosphere, created as da Vinci blurred the edges of his almost undetectable brushstrokes.

Of course, additional features also contribute to Mona Lisa’s magnificence. Yet even this short list makes clear: there’s more to the Mona Lisa than most of us realize.

And to know more makes us appreciate more and enjoy more. But such results require close observation through slow looking.

The same principle applies to God. To know God more will allow us to enjoy and appreciate him more.

But how do we observe closely Someone who’s invisible?

We begin with evidence of the Unseen. One example, his presence and character traits revealed in the events of our lives:

Caring protection from harm on numerous occasions

Generous provision of countless necessities, gifts, and blessings

Perfect wisdom, as certain desires of our hearts haven’t come true, recognized in hindsight

Unfailing faithfulness to see us through disappointment, difficulty, and uncertainty

Gracious goodness in every joyful moment, every delightful surprise. They all come from him.

Every day provides much evidence of his benevolent presence in the lives of each of his children. The more we look, the more we’ll find. And as each discovery is turned into praise our spirits fill with joy.

Another way to practice slow looking is to spend time in God’s presence, learning more about him through his Word.

It makes sense: “Delight in God cannot occur in an intellectual vacuum” [1].

“But I don’t know where to start!” someone might say.

The internet offers a variety of reading plans, and once a plan is in place, we apply the practice of slow looking as we read.

Writing the answers to such questions as these hones our observation skills:

What does this passage say about God and his character?

What truths does he teach?

What does God promise here that offers hope and encouragement?

Is there a prayer that applies to my life? (Write it out, perhaps in your own words, and personalize it.)

Has God included an example to follow or not follow [2]?

Slow looking through the act of writing also helps deepen our understanding and appreciation, expanding our capacity to enjoy God.

Another benefit? Taking joy in God and all his excellencies increases our strength to endure.

What moment of slow looking has led you to a recent discovery about God? Please share in the comment section below!

[1] Sam Storms, http://www.gracequotes.org

[2] Denise J. Hughes, Deeper Waters, 76.

Photo credits: http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.wikipedia.org; http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.heartlight.org; unknown.

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Choose Your Weapons!

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Praise, Uncategorized, tagged Contentment, Faith, God's Goodness, Gratitude, positivity, spiritual warfare, Thanksgiving on January 11, 2024| 49 Comments »

More than likely you’ve never seen the item pictured above. At first glance, you might think it’s a noisemaker used in primitive worship ceremonies. Others might say it looks like a musical instrument or the paddle for some game.

In actuality, it’s a model of an ancient Aztec weapon, a macuahuitl (MAC-wah-wick).

Strange-looking, isn’t it? How could a wooden paddle be deadly enough for warfare? The key lies in those black protrusions on the sides. They were made from obsidian and filed razor sharp, capable of creating gaping slash wounds.

Here’s another strange-looking weapon. They remind me of the jacks some of us played with as children. These are called caltrops, with each spike measuring 2 1/2-to-3 inches.

Caltrops were designed so that, when thrown on the ground, one point would always land facing up.

Spread hundreds of these around your camp at night, and protect your soldiers while they rest. Or hide them in the area before the opposing army approaches, and cause crippling injury to many men and beasts as they charge.

But why all this talk about ancient weapons?

In the spiritual battles of life, we too have at least two strange-but-effective weapons at our disposal.

At first glance, they might appear useless against our adversary Satan. But these weapons have the power to defeat his minions of discouragement, disappointment, envy, frustration, and more.

The first weapon is gratitude. Yes, just uncomplicated gratitude.

For example, consider each of the negative emotions named above and how gratitude might incapacitate them:

When discouraged by lack of recognition at work, I can be thankful God sees.

When dissatisfied with my paycheck, I can be thankful that God will provide.

When disappointed by my child’s behavior, I can be thankful for the life-lessons taught through consequences that will benefit him in the future.

When envious over the lovely new house of an acquaintance, I can be thankful for our low mortgage, friendly neighbors, and the memories that have turned our house into a home.

When frustrated by a day of one-step-forward-and-two-steps-back, I can thank God for the strength and patience to see me through [1].

And as we wield our weapon of gratitude we’ll discover: “The truly thankful person is a truly peaceful person” [2].

The second strange-looking weapon against negativity is contentment.

But how do we manufacture deep-down satisfaction when life is full of difficulty and stress?

Luci Swindoll suggests: “Consider who you are and be satisfied with that. Consider what you have and be satisfied with that. Consider what God is doing and be satisfied with that” [3].

One way to employ contentment is to meditate on one of the praise psalms, like Psalm 103 or 145. While reading each verse, consider what it says about who you are, what you have, and what God is doing. Brandish your discoveries in the face of the enemy of your soul.

Even one simple statement can generate a whole journal of responses. For example:

In this moment, consider:

What goodness do you see, hear, taste, smell, or feel (externally and internally)? Praise God for these gifts [4].

What recent events have brought you joy? Praise God for engineering those events.

Who has blessed you lately? Praise God for these people.

What are you looking forward to? What hopes do you have for the future? Praise God that, because of his unfailing love and faithfulness, we always have hope (Lamentations 3:21-23).

What evidence of God’s thrilling presence have you noted? Praise him for revealing himself in so many different ways [5].

Perhaps a thick fog of trouble makes it difficult to see much goodness. British writer and scholar Alexander Smellie (1857-1923) would have us affirm:

“The Lord knows what is best for me, and my surroundings are determined by Him. Wherever He places me, He does so to strengthen my faith and power, and to draw me into closer communion with Himself. And even if confined to a dungeon, my soul will prosper.”

Those are fighting words of contentment we can take into battle, my friends!

[1] Job 28:24; Philippians 4:19; Hebrews 12:11; Habakkuk 3:17-19; Philippians 4:13

[2] Lysa Terkheurst, Embraced, 256.

[3] Joy Breaks, 79.

[4] A previous post Mindfulness PLUS may prompt your thoughts.

[5] Another post Heart-to-Heart offers examples.

Photo credits: http://www.worldhistoryencyclopedia.org; http://www.picryl.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.org; http://www.pxhere.com.

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Think Again

Posted in Dreams, Encouragement, Faith, God's Grace, God's Power, God's Provision, God's Wisdom, Hope, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged doubt, Encouragement, Faith, Faith for the future, Feeling inadequate, God, Hope, Hopes and dreams for the future on January 4, 2024| 42 Comments »

As the new year makes its entrance, a fresh breeze of possibilities and dreams fills the mind:

Perhaps this year . . .

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if . . .

All things are possible with God, so . . .

But no sooner do I start finishing those statements with starry-eyed optimism, than some scratchy, irritating thoughts demand my attention. Thoughts such as:

You’re too old, terribly unworthy, and under-qualified.

You’ve already waited so long. Your desires obviously aren’t God’s desires for you.

You’ve hopelessly veered from God’s plan; otherwise your life circumstances would surely be different.

And my heart cries out:

I need your Word, God, your Sword of the Spirit, to slay these lies. And though I am grateful for familiar sword-thrusts like Romans 8:28, Jeremiah 29:11, and Philippians 4:13 to wield against the untruths listed above, a few new moves would surely increase my resolve. “Strengthen me according to your word” (Psalm 119:28b).

And God seems to say:

“All right, Nancy, let’s look at each statement from my viewpoint.

“You are too old? Not so. Moses was eighty when he became the leader of the Hebrew nation, bringing them out of Egypt and into Canaan. Daniel served as prime minister in Babylon well past the age of eighty. John was quite elderly when he received the Revelation. Age has nothing to do with usefulness.

“You are unworthy? Also not so. You are one of My chosen people, a royal priestess, who belongs to Me, the King of the universe (1 Peter 2:9a). Like all My children, you are precious and honored in My sight because I love you (Isaiah 43:4).

“You are under-qualified? All the better for My purposes! My G.R.A.C.E. (God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense) includes wisdom, power, strength, discernment, all spiritual gifts, all fruit of the Spirit, and more. My grace is more than sufficient for you; it’s all you need. In fact,“My strength comes into its own in your weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9 MSG).

“You’ve waited too long? Think again. Abraham waited 25 years for Isaac. Joseph waited seventeen years for his dream to come true. Caleb waited 45 years for his special parcel of the Promised Land.

“You’ve veered from My plan for you? Please refer to Ephesians 1:11. Your singular purpose is to display My glory, that is, my attributes of love, joy, goodness, and more. Wherever you are . . . “whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23). And remember: small acts can achieve important results also.

“One closing thought to keep in mind: There is method and reason to every decree I have judiciously ordained since the beginning of time, to accomplish My will according to My sovereignty. I AM the Almighty, all-wise God, your Heavenly Father.”

* * * * * * * * * *

O God, help me to look toward 2024, not through the eyes of discouraging doubt but through the eyes of ever-increasing faith. And when I cannot understand, help me just to stand. In Jesus’ powerful name, Amen. *

* Based on a prayer from Selwyn Hughes in Every Day Light, 105.

Image credits: http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.pickpik.com.

(Revised and reblogged from 1-3-2013 while we enjoy the last couple of days with out-of-town family.)

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One of God’s Masterpieces

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, Uncategorized, tagged Gratitude for Family, The Blessing of Family on December 28, 2023| 40 Comments »

Summer 2021

A happy family is

but an earlier heaven.

–George Bernard Shaw

We’ve been enjoying an earlier heaven this week as our three children, their spouses, and three grandchildren have gathered. (Steve’s sister and brother-in-law joined us for a day also.)

Because such occasions happen only now and then, I totally agree with Kathleen McGowan, who wrote:

The only thing sweeter than union

is reunion.

–Kathleen McGowan

Indeed, we treasure these times of togetherness, just as Wanda Hope Carter advocates:

Family and friends are hidden treasures.

Seek them and enjoy their riches.

–Wanda Hope Carter

A Spanish-American philosopher came close to describing why we find treasure in familial relationships:

The family is one of

nature’s masterpieces.

–George Santayana

I’d amend his statement to: “The family is one of God’s masterpieces.” After all, family is God’s idea, established at the beginning of time (Genesis 1:28).

Author Dillon Burroughs adds this viewpoint:

When we think of our family,

our spouse, parents, or children,

let us see them as a gift from God.

–Dillon Burroughs

Indeed! I am supremely grateful to my Heavenly Father for giving us the gift of a family that loves, supports, and takes joy in one another.

They make my soul blossom.

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy;

They are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.

–Marcel Proust

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Morning Star and King of Peace

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Presence, God's Salvation, Hope, Jesus, Joy, Meditation, Peace, Praise, Prayer, Salvation, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged Hope, Jesus, John 8:12, King of Peace, morning star, O Come O Come Emmanuel, Psalm 18:28 on December 21, 2023| 28 Comments »

Three 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].

Each verse helps us place our eyes on Jesus’ return by remembering his first coming and then expressing hope and yearning for his second coming [2].

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

One fact not mentioned thus far: the poet constructed the Latin lyrics in the form of a seven-sentence acrostic. When the first letter of the second word of each sentence (the names of Jesus) are put together, they spell SARCORE.

Read that word backwards, and the letters form two words of sublime hope: Ero cras, which means, “I will be present tomorrow.”

Whatever the future may hold, our Emmanuel will see us through. What a faith-stirring surprise the lyricist created for us [3]!

Now let’s turn our attention to the last two verses [4].

VERSE SIX

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that just as the morning star shines brightly against the darkness of night, you are the glorious Light of the world, shining brightly against the darkness of evil [5].

Just as the morning star glows steadily without a flicker, you shine in our lives with unwavering faithfulness and love [6].

Just as the morning star is a promise of coming day, your light provides hope and assurance that you will come again, to usher in The Day of the Lord, when a new heaven and a new earth will be established and righteousness will dwell [7].

Finally, just as the morning star can guide those at sea, your light guides our way through life. “In your light we see light”—the light of wisdom and discernment [8].

Such truths do bring us comfort, dispelling shadowy thoughts and flooding our spirits with the light of your perfection.

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for turning the darkness of sin, anxiety, discouragement, and more, into the light of your forgiveness, peace, hope, and joy [9]!

VERSE SEVEN

I praise you, Lord Jesus, our King! How comforting to know that Someone all-wise and supremely gracious is the Ruler of all nations, all things [10].

Yet you are also a respecter of persons. You’ve bestowed upon us the gift of choice, the ability to determine our own way. And what have we accomplished? Our world is tainted by selfishness, pride, and contention [11].

How we need you, Lord Jesus! You are our only hope for our selfishness to be transformed into selflessness, pride into humility, and contention into unity.

So we boldly pray that every person on earth would come to faith in you [12].

Is that an unattainable dream? No, because you also are unwilling that anyone should perish. And all things are possible with you, our sovereign God and Savior [13].

After all, you:

Created all things everywhere
Maintain order in the entire universe
Control the course of human history
Depose kings and raise up others
Exist in all places at the same time [14]

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that nothing can prevent you from accomplishing your purpose [15].

And I praise you, Lord Jesus, that you’ve given us the wherewithal to experience harmony with one another, as we demonstrate love and compassion with humility [16].

May we be examples to the world, whetting their appetite for what we experience: the joy of living in the presence of the King of Peace [17]!

[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] https://www.danielim.com/2017/12/19/the-hidden-theology-and-history-of-o-come-o-come-emmanuel/

[3] https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/o-come-o-come-emmanuel

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

[5] Revelation 22:16

[6] Psalm 100:5; John 8:12

[7] 2 Peter 3:12-13

[8] Psalm 36:9b; Ecclesiastes 2:13-14

[9] Psalm 18:28

[10] Revelation 19:16

[11] Proverbs 5:23

[12] 1 Timothy 2:1-4

[13] 2 Peter 3:9; Mark 10:27b

[14] Colossians 1:16-17; Daniel 2:21; Jeremiah 23:23-24 GNT

[15] Psalm 115:3

[16] 1 Peter 3:8

[17] Psalm 16:11

Photo credits: http://www.flickr.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.stockvault.net; http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.stockvault.net; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pickpik.com.

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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 Advent, Hope, Isaiah 11:1, Isaiah 11:10, Isaiah 55:7, Jeremiah 23:5-6, John 14:1-3, O Come O Come Emmanuel, Revelation 3:7 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.”

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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The Radiance of God’s Glory

Posted in Christmas, God's Power, God's Wisdom, Jesus, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged 1 Cointhians 1:30, 1 Corinthians 1:24, Advent, Colossians 1:16-17, Colossians 2:3, Daniel 7:13-14, Hebrews 1:2-3, John 1:40-49, O Come O Come Emmanuel on December 7, 2023| 24 Comments »

Last week 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”—the One who would come to deliver his people from the consequences of their sins and establish his kingdom forever [1].

Each verse of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” directs our spiritual eyes toward Christ’s return by remembering his first coming, and then expressing hope, anticipation, and yearning for his second coming [2].

Our needs here in the present are also addressed as we look to him–our Emmanuel (God with us), our Wisdom from on high, our great Lord of might, and more.

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

This week we meditate on verses two and three [3]:

VERSE 2

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that you are the wisdom of God from on high, and have become for us wisdom. In you are hidden all the treasures of discernment and knowledge—more profitable than silver, yielding better returns than gold, and more precious than rubies [4].

Through you, God Almighty made the universe, and he appointed you heir of all things. Your wisdom is on display in the order of everything: the orbits of planets, the balance of ecosystems, the cycle of seasons, and more [5].

I praise you, Lord Jesus! You are the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being. You wisely, actively, and expertly sustain all things by your powerful word [6]!

The Milky Way Galaxy is just one of approximately 200 billion galaxies in the universe–a conservative estimate.

It measures about 100, 000 lights years in diameter. Our whole planetary system occupies one tiny spot of the galaxy.

During your earthly life you exemplified the epitome of wisdom in what you taught and how you lived.

As if that wasn’t enough, you provide wisdom to those who trust you as their Lord and Savior and simply ask.

You know exactly when to give, how to give, what to give, and what to withhold [7].

We can trust you to show us the best path to follow, so that we may enjoy the abundant life you offer [8].

VERSE 3

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that you are our Lord of might, sovereign over all. You are leading everything to the conclusion you ordained before time began, by the same power, wisdom, and love with which you made it. Nothing can be amiss [9].

You will not fail to do your pre-ordained, unerring part, which is ultimately the only part that matters [10].

I praise you that just as the people of Israel saw the radiance of your glory on Mount Sinai as Moses received the law, we too can see evidence of your majesty and splendor. In fact, it’s all around us in:

The wonders of your creation
The truths in scripture
The love and compassion evident in your generous blessings
The beauty of your attributes on display—your knowledge, wisdom, power, goodness, and more
The scriptural prophecies fulfilled; the promises kept
The miracle of your grace that meets us where you find us but doesn’t leave us where you found us [11]

Who among the gods is like you, Lord? Who is like you—majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?
Exodus 15:11 NIV

REFRAIN:

In all of this and more we REJOICE!

You have come to be with us, our Emmanuel. You support us with your perfect wisdom, omnipotent might, and more.

Hallelujah!

[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] https://www.danielim.com/2017/12/19/the-hidden-theology-and-history-of-o-come-o-come-emmanuel/

[3] From www.hymnary.org. The lyrics of this hymn vary depending on the source.

[4] 1 Corinthians 1:24, 30; Colossians 2:3; Proverbs 3:13-15

[5] Hebrews 1:2; Jeremiah 51:15

[6] Hebrews 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17

[7] Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 84.

[8] Proverbs 3:5-6

[9] Daniel 7:13-14. Last two sentences based on Julian of Norwich quote

[10] Based on Elisabeth Elliot quote

[11] Based on Anne LaMott quote

Art & photo credits: http://www.pixexid.com; http://www.stockvault.net (Mirko Fabian); http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.stockvault.net (Mirko Fabian); http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.pickpik.com.

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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 God's Love, God's Steadfast love, God's Unfailing love, Jeremiah 31:3, Romans 8:38-39, Scriptures about God's love 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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Candles, Prayer, and Song

Posted in Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Protection, Heroes of the Faith, Hope, Perseverance, Prayer, Suffering, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged Berlin Wall, Christian Furher, Church of St. Nicholas Leipzig Germany, East Germany, Fear and Faith, Peaceful Protests, Power of Prayer, Psalm 44:3 on November 9, 2023| 34 Comments »

Christian trudged to the church he pastored as rain drummed on his umbrella. His pant cuffs grew increasingly damp from his splashing boots.

Is this really worth the effort, he wondered. Only a handful of people attended the Monday night prayer meetings, which he’d established several years prior at Church of St. Nicholas.

And yet the faithful few who came demonstrated such hope, Christian always felt uplifted by the end of each gathering.

Encouragement of any kind was in short supply. Times were difficult; everyone was suffering except the government elite and their cronies.

In the third year of the weekly prayer sessions, Christian felt compelled to invite fifty people to his church to discuss the oppressive circumstances of their country. More than six hundred came, and subsequently, attendance at the Monday prayer meetings also grew.

Such a large crowd didn’t slip by the attention of authorities. They discouraged religious gatherings, but assumed that prayer meetings were harmless.

Attendees began bringing family and friends. Over the next few years the church started to fill to overflowing. Eventually eight thousand people gathered every Monday night, praying for peace in their land and throughout the world.

Other churches around the country organized their own prayer meetings. Some attendees would walk the streets afterward, carrying candles and praying or singing as they went.

The authorities finally ran out of patience with the demonstrations. They barricaded the streets around the Church of St. Nicholas to discourage attendees. Instead, the congregation grew.

The next step included peaceful protests. Thousands of people participated. And even though hundreds of demonstrators were beaten and arrested, they weren’t deterred.

Numerous threats were made; some lost their jobs. One woman reported that government officials took custody of her children for a while, due to her participation in what they called an extremist group.

Worse yet, the protesters were threatened with death. And though many admitted to fearing for their lives, they did not back down.

“Our fear was not as big as our faith,” Christian explained later [1].

One night, after an hour-long service at St. Nicholas Church, Christian led the people outside to join a crowd of approximately 70,000, all gathering from various churches. Each one carried a candle and marched through the city chanting “we are the people” and “no violence” [2].

All along the way, long rows of armed police watched their every move. More soldiers manned tanks, waiting for the order to disperse the crowd with murderous force.

But the order never came. Afterward it was revealed that government officials persuaded their leader to leave the protesters alone.

One of the demonstrators gave a soldier a lighted candle. He put down his weapon and accepted it. Others followed suit. “Soon all the soldiers had lowered their weapons and joined with the protestors” [3].

In the following weeks, the prayerful, candle-carrying crowd grew to 120,000, then 300,000, and finally 700,000.

A crowd such as this must have gathered.

The country’s leader resigned, knowing that without the army to back him, he had become powerless. Soon the whole regime resigned, unable to fight against the power of prayer and Light.

One month after the tide-changing protest, a government spokesperson mistakenly announced in a public broadcast that a monumental change was about to take place. Citizens would be allowed to travel freely, effective immediately [4].

News spread rapidly, reported across the world. Thousands of people soon gathered at the symbol of their thirty-year oppression, a barrier that had divided them into east and west: the Berlin Wall.

Harald Jager, commanding officer of the border guards that night, called his superiors to find out how to deal with the gathering crowd. He received no orders.

“People could have been injured or killed . . . if there had been panic among the thousands gathered at the border crossing,” he declared afterward. “That’s why I gave the order: Open the barrier” [5].

And so, on November 9,1989, thousands flowed through, celebrating and crying. Others climbed over the barrier, chipping away at the wall with hammers and pickaxes. Bulldozers and cranes soon made quick work of dismantling the entire structure [6].