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Constant Delight

Posted in Blessings, Faith, God's Goodness, Perseverance, Prayer, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged , , on August 31, 2023| 36 Comments »

Want to know three actions guaranteed to bring delight?

These actions are recommended by the One who designed us, God himself, because of the blessings he’s built into them. He would have us:  always rejoicing, always praying, and always giving thanks [1].

You might say, “I’ve experienced the delight of rejoicing in God’s goodness, and gratitude to him does uplift my spirit, but prayer? That seems more discipline than delight. Besides, how can we pray continually and keep up with the responsibilities of life?”

We’ll address the delights of prayer near the end of this post. As for praying always, we can relax. That’s not what God desires.

Continual prayer is more about an abiding attitude rather than an all-consuming pursuit–an attitude that includes:

  • Faith, believing God exists and rewards those who seek him.
  • Humility, as we acknowledge our dependence upon him for everything.
  • Honesty, knowing that God is near to those who call to him with integrity.
  • Expectancy, because he can do all things and is generous with his gifts [2].

Continual prayer is also about an abiding awareness of God’s presence and communicating with him throughout the day. For example, we can offer sentence prayers such as these:

  • Thank you, Lord, for your strength; you will see me through today’s tight schedule.
  • Grant your wisdom for this decision, Father.
  • That woman over there reminds me of Tiffany. Bless Tiff, I pray; fill her with your joy and peace in spite of the challenges she currently faces.
  • Thank you for quieting my nerves during the presentation this afternoon.
  • What beautiful clouds you made today, Lord! I marvel at your artistry.
  • Oh God, forgive me for getting so upset with that rude driver. Calm the anger within me.
  • Such disturbing news heard just now. I pray against the forces of evil that cause such suffering. I pray that your right hand, majestic in power, will shatter the enemy at work in this situation [3]!

We’d do well to remember:

Edge your days with prayer;

they are less likely to unravel.

Unknown

Third, continual prayer is about persistence. When prayers go unanswered, Hannah of the Bible provides an example for us. “She pressed in ever closer, filling the space of her wait with prayer” [4].

I love that: “filling the space of her wait with prayer.” We too can experience delightful, calming confidence in God while persisting in prayer through the wait.

The great preacher, Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892), had this to say about continual prayer:

To pray continually takes effort; it’s easy to let distractions interfere. That in turn leads to such adverse effects as frustration, irritation, a lack of peace, confusion, a short temper, weariness, and discouragement [5].

Oh, but what delights result when we maintain an attitude of prayer —in addition to our prayers answered! What follows is just a short list.

Communicating with God:

  • Helps us focus less on trivial matters and more on glorious realities [6]
  • Fosters peace [7]
  • Increases our trust in God, our reliance upon him [8] 
  • Allows us to participate in what God is doing around the world [9]
  • Helps us build a life-enhancing relationship with God [10]

Unceasing prayer can grow to be something we do

not because of discipline but because of friendship.

Desire. It’s where we’re headed,

if we’ll let Him take us there.

Sara Hagerty, Unseen, 227

Oh, yes Lord, that’s my desire, to experience the constant delight of communion with you, through continual prayer. Keep me mindful to pray my way through every day.

[1] 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

[2] Hebrews 11:6; John 15:5; Psalm 145:18 HCSB; Matthew 19:26; Psalm 84:11

[3] Lamentations 3:22-23; Isaiah 41:10; James 1:5; Psalm 94:19; Job 5:9; Exodus 15:6

[4] 1 Samuel 1:1-20; Lysa Terkeurst, Embraced, 174.

[5] Ray Pritchard, https://www.preceptaustin.org/1_thessalonians_516_commentary .

[6] Sarah Young, Jesus Calling, 135.

[7] Philippians 4:6-7

[8] Jeremiah 17:7-8

[9] Matthew 6:9-10; Philippians 1:19 offers an example.

[10] Luke 11:9

Photo credits: http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (2); http://www.heartlight.org.

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Along the Shoreline of Wonder

Posted in God, God's Power, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on August 24, 2023| 45 Comments »

Of the two art installations below, which piece appeals to you the most?

Jackson Pollock’s #31 (1950)?

Or, the rose window of Strasbourg Cathedral, designed by the architect Erwin von Steinbach in the twelfth century?

Pollock’s work impresses us for his unique creativity at the time, its size (nearly 9’ x 18’), the gnarled texture, and the illusion of movement.

The second artwork dazzles us for its intricate design, its size (nearly 50 feet across), and the precise, colorful artistry.

Another factor that draws our eye: symmetry—the quality of being made up of similar parts facing each other or around an axis.

Imagine the number of glass pieces required for the Strasbourg window, each carefully cut to exact dimensions in order to complete sixteen matching petals. Note that the number doubles where the sixteen sections become thirty-two.

Research conducted with babies has proven: humans are born with a predilection for symmetry, whether it’s in art, nature, music, or the people we find attractive.

Beauty is bound up with symmetry.

Herman Weyl, physicist [1]

Even Pollock employed symmetry in his work. There’s balance between the right and left sides, the top and bottom, in the amount of paint used, and in the ratio of gray, white, and black paint (albeit not as precise as a rose window)!

Of course, it wasn’t a human who introduced symmetry into the universe, it was God, and it is everywhere.

Countless examples can be found in four basic forms.

Bilateral, with matching right and left sides:

Except for a few anomalies, all animals fall into this category.

Radial, with parts radiating outwards from a center:

Aeonium arboreum

Biradial, which combine both radial and bilateral symmetry:

See all those hundreds of barbs on each feather? They’re bilaterally symmetrical too.

And spherical:

Globe Thistle

But then there are numerous variations, including:

Fractal, where the same shape or pattern in various sizes is repeated over and over.

Romanesco Broccoli

Wallpaper, with its repeating pattern horizontally and vertically.

Macro Photography of actual honeycomb

Fibonacci, based on the ratio 1:1.618 and called the Golden Ratio [2], is found in the double spiral of sunflower seeds.

Rotational, when an object still looks the same after some distance of rotation.

Icosahedral, with its adjoining faces, each connected to the others at the same angle, creating a spherical shape.

Model of the Carbon 60 Molecule

The Carbon 60 molecule is just one example of symmetry at the microscopic level. But it also occurs at the cosmic.

For instance, on April 8, 2024, Planet Earth will experience a total solar eclipse—another example of bilateral symmetry. Such a phenomenon occurs because the sun is 400 times larger than the moon, but also 400 times farther from the earth, making the two bodies appear the exact same size in the sky [3].

Nearly everywhere we look, some form of symmetry is bound to be within view.

And what might we learn about God from his use of symmetry?

The wonder of creation is,

every encounter illuminates

something about God.

Margaret Feinberg [4]

Symmetry indicates that he loves order and organization, pattern and design, proportion and balance.

Symmetry gives evidence of his intentionality in creation, his attention to detail, his care and precision in the execution of his plan.

Symmetry affirms Intelligent Design. All of these astounding patterns could not have happened by chance, any more than pieces of glass can randomly come together in a rose window.

The more we know of God’s works, the better we know him.

The better we know God, the greater our awe and wonder.

And wending along the shoreline of wonder leads to worship [5].

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Thank you, Glorious Creator, for the joy of discovery as we learn about you.  You ARE the Master Craftsman. Everything you’ve made has been thoughtfully and expertly fashioned by your hand. I delight in your deeds and happily sing in celebration of your handiwork!

1 Timothy 4:4a; Psalm 92:4

[1] Symmetry (Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1989).

[2] See https://nancyaruegg.com/2017/06/22/the-language-of-the-universe/ for a more detailed explanation and many astounding examples of the Golden Ratio in creation.

[3] https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/eclipses/science/geometry/

[4] Wonderstruck, 55.

[5] Though we intend our worship to bless God, he blesses us as we do. See https://nancyaruegg.com/2022/07/07/what-happens-when-we-pause-to-praise/

Photo credits: http://www.flickr.com (Wally Gobetz); http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (Martin Kraft); http://www.flickr.com (Chris Bertram); http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.flickr.com (Brian Auer); http://www.pexels.com; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.wallpaperflare.com; http://www.pxfuel.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (2); http://www.wallpaperflare.com.

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Standing Strong

Posted in Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Promises, God's Strength, Heroes of the Faith, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on July 27, 2023| 37 Comments »

Gunfire blasts and booming cannons surrounded Union Army Private, William Carney. His regiment’s objective: to capture Fort Wagner near Charleston, South, Carolina.

The 54th Regiment of Massachusetts at the Civil War battle for Ft. Wagner, July 18, 1863.

Jerking movement nearby caught Carney’s eye. The color guard had been shot. As the dying man fell, the U.S. flag he carried began billowing toward the ground. Carney scrambled to rescue the flag from desecration and took a bullet himself.

Carney continued to crawl toward the fort, holding the flag high and calling encouragement for his fellow soldiers to follow. He was hit at least three more times, but made it to the walls of Fort Wagner, planting the flag into the sandy soil and holding it upright “until his near-lifeless body was rescued” [1] .

Even then Carney refused to let go of the flag until he was returned to his regiment’s camp. His heroism that day inspired a vital victory for the Union Army.

W. H. Carney with the flag he carried that day.

Years later Carney explained his motivation for joining the Union cause: “I had a strong inclination to prepare myself for the ministry; but when the country called for all persons, I could best serve my God by serving my country and my oppressed brothers. The sequel is short – I enlisted for the war” [2] .

Yes, Carney had been an oppressed brother himself, born into slavery in 1840. But during the 1850s he arrived in Massachusetts, either through the Underground Railroad, or perhaps his father—already a freed slave—was able to purchase his son.

Either way, Carney began to enjoy the freedoms that Blacks of the South were denied—freedoms like traveling, assembling, learning to read and write, and receiving pay for work. He passionately desired other slaves to experience the same.

That God-given passion for his fellow man surely inspired Carney that day at Fort Wagner, to give the fight his all no matter what duty fell to him. And for his tenacity and courage, William Carney received the Medal of Honor in 1900. He was the first Black soldier to do so.

Someone might ask, how was William Carney able to stay so strong?

Undoubtedly his firm stance was the result of:

  • Strong attention toward his God
  • Strong determination to live by God’s ways
  • Strong faith in God’s promises, confident that whether he lived or died, all would be well

We too can stand firm in what we face by applying the same.

Strong attention toward God includes not allowing our emotions to control us. For example, sorrow, fear, and exhaustion will insist we can’t go on, but God tells us he gives strength to the weary and increases power for the weak [3] .

Strong attention toward God includes being in relationship with him, through prayer, Bible reading, worship, and more. We can’t expect to sense his peace and strengthening presence if we never spend time with him.

Security is not the absence of danger

but the presence of God

no matter what the danger.

Unknown

Strong determination to follow God means choosing to live by his truth. Scripture is full of examples of men and women shaped by their faith and obedience in God, becoming as strong as steel: Huldah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Mary (Mother of Jesus), Peter, and Paul are among them.

We see such Bible heroes as extraordinary, but I’m sure they’d tell us they were just ordinary people who trusted in their extra-ordinary God.

Strong faith in God’s promises means we can hold on to hope with confidence and courage.

I wonder if scripture-promises echoed in William Carney’s mind as he held that flag high and emboldened his comrades–promises such as these?

 

  • “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11).
  • “With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall. It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect” (2 Samuel 22:30, 33).
  • “If I live, it will be for Christ, and if I die, I will gain even more.” (Philippians 1:21 CEV).

You and I may never fight in battle, but these same promises can echo in our minds as we confront such enemies of our souls as discouragement, anxiety, stress, guilt, and temptation.

Like William Carney WE can stand steadfast and strong [4] .

What helps you to stand strong? Please share your experience in the comment section!

[1]https://www.army.mil/article/181896/meet_sgt_william_carney_the_first_african_american_medal_of_honor_recipient

[2] https://www.nps.gov/articles/william-h-carney.htm

[3] Isaiah 40:29

[4] 1 Corinthians 15:58

Photo credits: http://www.picryl.com (2); http://www.nypl.getarchive.net; http://www.dir.es/album/hiking-in-wales-2019; http://www.wallpaperflare.com.

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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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Beyond Imagination

Posted in Courage, Excellence, God's Power, God's Provision, Godly Character, Heroes of the Faith, Service, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on June 15, 2023| 34 Comments »

“I’m sorry, but we cannot treat those who cannot pay,” the doctor explained.

Katie Davis blinked in shock. How could a physician turn away an injured child, even if she was an orphan? Then again, this was Uganda, not Brentwood, Tennessee where she grew up. Fifty percent of the population here lived in poverty, and the under-resourced hospital couldn’t handle all the overwhelming needs.

People waiting in Ugandan hospital

But Katie, a kindergarten teacher, couldn’t accept the doctor’s pronouncement. This child was a student in her school, living in a shack down the street. She was the oldest of three and caretaker of the younger two; their parents had died of AIDS.

The orphanage was already full to capacity; Katie feared for the girls’ future. That very day she managed to secure custody papers, and single Katie became a mother of three—at age nineteen.[1]

What will Mom and Dad say about THIS? she must have thought.

They’d already been hesitant about Katie’s first three-week trip to Uganda, to work at a Christian orphanage her senior year of high school, 2006. Almost as soon as she arrived, Katie fell in love with the staff and students.

Upon returning to the States, Katie couldn’t wait to get back to Uganda after graduation, to take the kindergarten position offered her. The Davises had agreed, with the understanding she’d begin college the following year.

Katie returned home as promised, but her heart remained in Uganda. After one semester, her parents acquiesced and Katie flew back to the people and country she loved.

Uganda–a small land-locked country of East Africa

It was January 2008 when Katie’s adopted daughters moved into her small living quarters, but God soon provided a house to rent.

Over the next eighteen months, more orphans were brought to Katie—girls who’d been abandoned, abused, or whose parents had died of AIDS. One baby was given to Katie by an HIV-positive mother, just twelve years old herself. Child-by-child, Katie’s family grew to thirteen.

Of course, her teacher-salary couldn’t cover all the expenses. But Katie had already researched how to start a nonprofit organization, to aid Uganda’s children. Amazima International Ministries was established in 2008, based in Katie’s hometown of Brentwood.[2]

Soon 150 children were receiving assistance that included school supplies, basic medical care, and two hot meals a day—things their families couldn’t afford.

Two years passed. Katie’s life brimmed with all the responsibilities that thirteen children entail. In addition, numerous houseguests came and went—people in dire circumstances needing temporary lodging.

As with any household, disagreements and frustrations flared. But the word Katie chose to describe the atmosphere was elation—for the laughter, singing, happy noise and gratitude that filled her home.[3]

Then tragedy unfolded. A dear friend and mother of five, died. And the biological mother of one of Katie’s adoptees returned to claim her daughter—a mother unfit for parenting—but Katie had to let the child go. Grief beyond words gripped her heart as she turned to her Heavenly Father for solace. 

Early in 2014, twenty-something Benji Majors arrived in Uganda on a mission trip. He soon recognized the need for young men to be mentored. So Benji decided to stay and come alongside those wanting to become God’s men of integrity.

When Benji asked Katie out–twice, she said no both times, not sure if marriage was part of God’s plan. Besides, what man would commit himself to a woman with thirteen children? Better not to get involved, she thought. 

But Katie found herself attracted to Benji’s passionate heart for God and for people. She finally invited him for coffee—the first of many dates.

The following year Benji proposed over a picnic. When Katie said yes, her thirteen daughters jumped out of the bushes and tossed flowers at the couple. Benji had included them as part of the plan. He and Katie were married in late 2015.

The couple still lives in Uganda, running Amazima Ministries. They provide education for hundreds of children in their own Amazima School, food and health services for thousands of families, as well as job opportunities.

Who could have imagined such a far-reaching outcome when young Katie left for Uganda?

GOD could.

P.S. Ben and Katie no longer parent 13 children; the number has grown to 15 with their two biological sons.

[1] Though Ugandan law specifies an adoptive parent must be at least twenty-one, a judge can override the law in the best interest of the child(ren).

[2] Amazima means “truth” in Lugandan.

[3] https://youngadults.lifeway.com/2012/01/no-ordinary-life-katie-davis-story-of-serving-children-in-uganda/ 

Sources:

https://amazima.org/about/ . Visit here for numerous photos and information about Amazima Ministries.

https://www.christianpost.com/news/katie-davis-majors-young-adoptive-mother-of-13-ugandans-where-is-god-in-suffering-interview.html

Katie Davis Majors Became An Adoptive Mother To 13 Daughters At 23

https://justbetweenus.org/magazine/exclusive-interviews/extraordinary-love/

https://myhero.com/katie-davis-a-serving-heart-2

https://toptwentyfiveinterviews.transistor.fm/episodes/7-daring-to-hope-part-1-katie-davis-majors

No Ordinary Life: Katie Davis’ Story of Serving Children in Uganda

Photo credits: http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (Toshihiro Horii); http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.flickr.com; sni.no/Skole_og_utdanning_i_Uganda (Richard Lord); http://www.publicdomainpictures.com (Michael Spisak).

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Striving Too Hard for All the Wrong Reasons

Posted in Decision-Making, Encouragement, Excellence, God's Faithfulness, God's Grace, God's Power, God's Wisdom, Godly Character, Holiness, Humility, Renewing the Mind, Service, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on June 8, 2023| 45 Comments »

The Ruegg crew–1980

Years ago when my husband Steve was two-and-a-half years into his first pastorate and our three children were ages five and under, I found myself over-committed.

Sundays, of course, included Sunday School, church, and an evening service. Mondays we hosted a small group in our home that grew to about 30 (which, in my mind, required a clean house plus fresh iced tea and coffee). Thursday evening was choir practice.

From a handful of members to a loft-full; I’m 5th from the left

Every other week, I facilitated a Moms’ support group/Bible study. Also on the to-do list: leading Children’s Church each Sunday for a year, and participating in numerous other activities that happened on a less frequent schedule.

Do you see any issues here?! I didn’t.

All this activity felt important for the growth and community-building of our church that had been dying before we arrived. As a result, I was always on the go between the responsibilities there and at home. Sometimes I resented it (which can be one of the symptoms of striving too hard).  

But the bustle felt gratifying too. In seeking to please the people around me, I was feeding my own neediness for validation. Pride and self-satisfaction lurked in the corners of my soul—wrong reasons for the striving. In addition, I was discovering those attitudes are never satiated.

What’s a Type-A person–who wants to do what’s right–supposed to do?

The following questions can help us evaluate our choices of activity, how many we choose, as well as analyze the motivations behind them:  

Am I propelled most days by determination or devotion?

The determined person rarely reads her Bible or prays except on the run. Her calendar is impressively full of good-deed commitments for others, but contentment is illusive.

This woman may know that a quiet time spent with God refreshes and transforms the spirit, but she can’t seem to make it happen.

Do I find myself pressing on (to the point of exhaustion), while rarely pressing in to be strengthened?

Pressing in includes connecting with God throughout the day, especially in the thick of stress, frustration, or anxiety.  One means is to recite scripture verses that bring our focus back to our all-powerful, all-wise God. [1]

Such verses include:

  • “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
  • “Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me” (Psalm 50:15).
  • “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him” (Lamentations 3:25).

God is ever-ready to help—with the choices before us, when to say yes and when to say no, as well as the right motivations behind those choices.

Does people-pleasing supersede God-pleasing in my life?

Author Shauna Niequist speaks for some of us when she asks: “Why am I doing this? What is it in me that keeps things moving so breakneck fast, . . . that sacrifices my own health and happiness so that people who aren’t me will think I’m doing a good job, in some vague, moving-target kind of way?”[2]

I too find my service for others frequently tinged with people-pleasing. Does that mean I should forego such activity until I can purify my intentions?

No, wrote author and pastor, Tim Keller: “If you wait until your motives are pure and unselfish before you do something, you will wait forever.”[3]

BUT! Our heavenly Father offers this glorious hope:

Because we are covered by Jesus’ righteousness, even our imperfect efforts to please God are acceptable. And as we grow in dependence upon Christ, he’ll purify our hearts more and more.[4]

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Father, I know it’s downright foolish of me to strive so hard, especially for all the wrong reasons. I want to be free from people-pleasing, self-gratification of the ego, and pride. Forgive me for giving room to such attitudes in my mind.

Help me to be an eager and compliant participant as you work within me to create a pure heart and make my attitudes new.

In the powerful name of Jesus, AMEN.

(Proverbs 4:23; Psalm 51:10; Romans 12:2)

[1] Psalm 72:12 ESV

[2] Present over Perfect, 58.

[3] The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism

[4] Isaiah 61:10; Titus 2:11-14

Photo credits: Nancy Ruegg (2); http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pixabay.com (TheDigitalArtist); http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net.

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Three Ways to Better Health and Greater Joy

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Joy, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on June 1, 2023| 32 Comments »

Recently I’ve been listening to Christian comedians on YouTube while exercising. They help distract me during this most distasteful half-hour of each day.

The best part of exercise: when it’s over.

So far I can recommend the humor of Tim Hawkins, Jim Davis, Kenn Kington, and Ted Cunningham to keep one entertained.

However, be forewarned: it’s impossible to do crunches while laughing.

Here’s a sample of Kenn Kington. Start the video, start crunching, and you’ll see what I mean.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YZ8tAbI5fw

No doubt you’ve heard some of the benefits of laughter that researchers have identified, including:

  • Decreased tension
  • Lowered blood pressure
  • Improved immune system
  • Increased feel-good endorphins
  • Renewed energy [1]

Laughter is good medicine, just as God inspired King Solomon to write eons ago (Proverbs 17:22). It also produces healthy servings of joy into our spirits.

But laughter isn’t the only action that produces health benefits and joy. So do gratitude and praise.

According to the Mayo Clinic, gratitude:

  • Decreases depression
  • Lessens worry
  • Improves sleep
  • Enhances immunity
  • Reduces chronic pain [2]

The ability to express gratitude and praise is a gift from God, intended to accomplish much good for mind, body, and spirit.

So what might we give thanks and praise to God for today?

A quick perusal of my gratitude journal provides the following possibilities that anyone can embrace:

  • Watching children on a playground, running, climbing, sliding, and whooping with glee—and finding my own glee expanded
  • Tackling a challenging project and reveling in the moment when it’s finally complete
  • Partaking a delicious meal with family and/or friends, enhanced by caring conversation, shared memories, and of course, laughter!
  • Marveling at the masterpieces of nature: the wings of a butterfly, the camouflage of a deer, the leap-and-grab abilities of a squirrel
  • Delighting in a bargain purchase that God surely provided (James 1:17)

Both of these practices, laughter and gratitude, will take us only so far into health and joy without one all-important element: faith.

When Paul wrote from prison to his dear friends at Philippi, he hoped to be released and visit them soon. His heart’s desire was to contribute further to their spiritual growth and to their joy in the faith (Philippians 1:25), considering its numerous benefits.

Which come first to your mind? See if your thoughts correspond with a few of these blessings:

  • God’s unfailing grace, compassion, and love
  • His inexplicable peace, comforting presence, and absolute strength
  • The wisdom of his Word to guide us through every situation
  • God’s promises that offer hope
  • His help that sometimes manifests itself in a surprising God-incident
  • His encouragement at unexpected moments through unexpected sources
  • The undeserved gift of eternal life yet to come

Researchers have verified that faith in God also provides physical benefits, including:

  • Reduced stress
  • Lowered blood pressure
  • Enhanced mental health
  • Improved emotional health
  • Decreased depression [3]

It stands to reason, the stronger our faith in a God–who provides so much–the greater our contentment.

And when enthusiastic laughter, heartfelt gratitude, and praise-charged faith are part of every day, we’ll find ourselves overflowing with a sense of well-being and joy—an overflow that also impacts others.

[1] https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/laughter-is-the-best-medicine.htm.

[2] https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/can-expressing-gratitude-improve-health#:~:text=Expressing%20gratitude%20is%20associated%20with,pain%20and%20risk%20of%20disease.

[3]https://www.bethesdagardensloveland.com/blog/the-health-benefits-of-faith#:~:text=The%20health%20benefits%20of%20faith%20have%20been%20a%20hot%20topic,reduced%20dependency%20on%20addictive%20substances and https://relevantmagazine.com/life5/surprising-links-between-faith-and-health/ and https://www.christiantoday.com/article/believing.in.god.is.good.for.your.health/27902.htm.

Photo credits: http://www.rawpixels.net; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pexels.com (Sidney Lima); http://www.canva.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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Sovereign Lord

Posted in Blessings, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, Meditation, Praise, Prayer, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , on May 18, 2023| 42 Comments »

Sovereign Lord of Creation, who

Drapes morning mist across the hillsides,

Paints the dawn with ever-changing hues, and

Scatters sparkling crystals of dew on grass and flower,

I worship you with incredulous wonder.

Sovereign Lord of Salvation, who

Gave your precious Son, the King of kings,

To die a cruel, criminal’s death for my sin, and

Provide the way of eternal life,

I worship you with overflowing gratitude.

Sovereign Lord, who

Now considers me righteous,

Making possible an intimate relationship with you, and

Granting perfect peace and effervescent joy,

I worship you with a humbled spirit.

(Detail from The Return of the Prodigal Son

by Rembrandt)

Sovereign Lord of Affection, who

Mercifully withholds the punishment I deserve,

Graciously bestows blessings I have not earned, and

Carries me close to your heart,

I worship you with overwhelming love.

Sovereign Lord of Revelation, who

Gave us your timeless, trustworthy Word, that

Offers infallible wisdom, inspired instruction, and

Encouraging promises to lead us and lift us,

I want to worship you with my obedience.

Sovereign Lord of Transformation, who

Actively pursues my best interest,

To mold me into the image of Jesus

With ever-increasing splendor,

I want to worship you with my submission.

Sovereign Lord of Distinction,

There is no one like you.

Your greatness is beyond human comprehension.

I stand in awe of your splendor and majesty, and

I worship you with all that is within me.

(Revelation 17:14; Philippians 2:8; Romans 5:17; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Revelation 3:20; Romans 14:17; Micah 7:18; John 1:16; Isaiah 40:11; Psalm 119:160, 130, 50; Romans 8:26-29; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Psalm 145:1-5.)

Photo and art credits: http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.pxfuel.com; http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.creazilla.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.pxfuel.com; http://www.wallpaperflare.com.  

(Reblogged from June 18, 2015 while we enjoy another visit from our younger son and daughter-in-love.)

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Put a Bounce in Your Step!

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, Jesus, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on May 11, 2023| 45 Comments »

Discouragement bombards us from every direction—from disheartening newscasts to difficult neighbors, from incompetent coworkers to family frustrations.

Secular sources offer strategies like these to combat despair:

  • Let go of anger and accept people as they are. (Easier said than done!)
  • Stand up straight—good posture helps. (Help, perhaps. Absolute remedy? Seems doubtful.)
  • Learn something new; do something fun! (And when the distraction is over, what then?)

An anonymous psalmist offers us this God-inspired example instead:

Can you affirm that our sovereign God is a mighty, majestic, and miracle-working God?

If so, you’ll agree with this assertion:

“As long as our eyes are on God’s majesty

there is a bounce in our step!”

–Max Lucado [1]

Look up majesty in a thesaurus and you’ll find such awe-inspiring synonyms as magnificence, glory, awesomeness, and superbness.

But how can we keep our eyes on the majesty of a God who’s invisible?

We can see its manifestations–they’re all around us.

For example:

We See God’s Majesty in Creation

While reading on the deck one afternoon, a house wren landed at one end of the rail, then dashed across its length before pausing and flying away. Never would I have expected such a small bird to run so fast. You’d think she had wheels, not legs!

And I marveled at this work of God: a small, nondescript bird with the extraordinary gift of great speed.

We See God’s Majesty in Circumstances

H. asked if I’d like to join her for a church-sponsored concert that she knew we’d both enjoy. I purchased my ticket online, only to learn later the transaction hadn’t completed, even though the last page on the website announced a successful purchase. The ticket was never emailed.

Kicking myself for not taking a screen shot, I contacted the credit card company, but there was no record of the payment yet. My husband urged me to attend the concert anyway. Upon arrival we learned there’d been a problem with the website. They graciously invited those of us without tickets to attend free of charge!

We See God’s Majesty in Scripture

Not long ago I let myself slip into a cesspool of self-pity while cleaning the house—a task I deplore. Suddenly God broke through my negativity and redirected my thoughts with this gem of advice: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, rejoice” (Philippians 4:4).

He reminded me why I was cleaning. I could rejoice that our younger son and daughter-in-love were coming to visit. And I prayed, “Help me practice gratitude, Father, and enjoy your company—even as I clean.”

(Please revive my attitudes also, Lord!)

We See God’s Majesty in Jesus

No one is as glorious and majestic as our righteous King! And yet he concerns himself with us.

He is:

Our Priest to atone

Our fountain to cleanse

Our Intercessor to plead

Our Foundation to support

Our Counselor to advise

Our Prophet to teach

Our Sun to enlighten

Our Bread to nourish

Our Father to provide

Our Shepherd to protect

Our Emmanuel to attend

Our Peace to comfort

Our Lord of glory to reign![2]

May such truths as these help to dispel discouragement and put a bounce in our step–today and always!

What truths would you add to this starter-list? Please share in the comments!

[1] Grace for the Moment, 289.

[2] V. 1: Hebrews 2:17; Zechariah 13:1; Romans 8:34; 1 Corinthians 3:11. V. 2: Isaiah 9:6; Deuteronomy 18:15; Malachi 4:2; John 6:35. V. 3: Isaiah 9:6; John 10:11; Matthew 1:22-23; 2 Thessalonians 3:16, 1 Corinthians 2:8.

Art & photo credits: http://www.pexels.com, Yan Krukau; http://www.canva.com; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net, Sheila Brown; http://www.canva.com; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net, Lynn Greyling; http://www.wallpaperflare.com.

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