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When Dreams Begin to Fade

Posted in Dreams, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Promises, God's Will, Maturity, Patience, Perseverance, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged Dreams, God's Promises, God's will for my life, Hopes and dreams for the future, unfulfilled dreams, Waiting on God, wrong dreams on July 7, 2016| 8 Comments »

Have you heard or read such statements as these?

Dream big! With God you can go as far as you can think or imagine.

Faith may not make things easy; but it does make them possible.

When God makes a promise he also makes a provision.

All three statements are valid IF the promises we’ve embraced coincide with God’s plan. If not, God may not be making that dream come true, or turning the unimaginable into possible, or making provision for a particular fulfillment.

That means the perfect wife or husband may not show up, the perfect job may not open up, the perfect family may not be delivered up, and the perfect ministry opportunity (in our view) may not match up with those making the choices.

What do we do when our dreams seem to be fading away like vapor?

We need to remember:

God is not limited to our timeframe.

We know that, right? Sometimes God requires a waiting period before making our dreams reality. The dream will be fulfilled—but in his time. Scripture is full of examples of those who had to wait; we’ve considered them before: Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, David—to name a few.

Eventually their dreams came true. Abraham became a father, Jacob was blessed with twelve sons, Joseph became prime minister of Egypt, and David, the king of Israel.

However, we’d be wise to hold onto our dreams with a light grip, as these same four patriarchs demonstrate:

Abraham saw the birth of only one son of promise, not exactly the nation God foretold.
The full extent of blessing promised to Jacob was not fulfilled until the birth of Jesus.
David dreamed of erecting a temple for God, and though he collected an impressive store of materials, the privilege of building went to his son, Solomon.

Perhaps, like these Bible heroes, God has chosen to fulfill our dreams after we’re gone.

I have to decide: Will I balk at such a reality or embrace it?

Maybe my heart is set on the wrong dream—even though it seems right and worthwhile.

God may desire that I set aside my Plan A and take hold of his Plan B. Oh, but that sounds like settling, doesn’t it? Not at all. God’s plan is never second best. It’s always better (Hebrews 11:39-40)!

Also important to understand: God may have chosen me to be a foundation-builder—part of the preparation process. Someone else will be the presentation. John the Baptist is a perfect example, as he prepared the way for Jesus.

Foundation builders serve as mentors, planners, and seed planters. Again, will I balk at such a reality or embrace it?

We can be “certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1).

That includes this truth: When we do not see one promise (or more) being fulfilled, we can be certain other promises are. God is loving and good. Always. He will demonstrate his grace and compassion–no matter what.

Part of God’s goodness prompts him to foster within us: a) a deeper relationship with him (Jeremiah 33:3); b) greater obedience to his all-wise ways (Hebrews 12:7-11, 14), and c) greater spiritual strength (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). Once we begin to realize the benefit of these blessings, other desires will fade in importance.

(Note to self: When my appreciation for spiritual blessings overrides my celebration of material and circumstantial blessings, I’ll know that the maturity James talked about is taking root.)

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, oh God, for your omnipotent ability to supply, guide, sustain, change, correct, and improve–in your time, for your good purpose. Help me to rely upon your love and wisdom to choose what’s best for me, and your power to live in godly ways for your glory. That is the way to a fulfilling, satisfying life!

(Art & photo credits: www.twitter.com; http://www.youtube.com; http://www.saltlakebiblecollege.org; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.knowing-jesus.com.)

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The True Measure of Success

Posted in Bible Study, Courage, Decision-Making, Dreams, Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, God's Will, God's Wisdom, Godly Character, Patience, Perseverance, Success, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged 1 Corinthians 15:58, 1 Kings 2:3, Jeremiah, Joshua 1:8, Perseverance, Persistence, The prophet Jeremiah on June 27, 2016| 4 Comments »

We’ve all heard the story of Joseph (or seen the musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat). You’ll remember he’s the one who endured years of slavery and prison before his dreams (of bowing wheat sheaves and stars paying homage) came true.

We also know about Moses, an adopted prince in Pharaoh’s household who ended up in the wilderness herding sheep. Forty years later God called him to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt.

And we’re familiar with Paul who spent years traveling from place to place and, yes, suffering all kinds of trials—beatings, imprisonment, dangers, shipwrecks—all for the privilege of serving God, introducing people to Jesus and establishing churches.

These Biblical stories and others teach us to never give up, because we never know when God will show up to turn a prisoner into a prime minister, a shepherd into a great leader, or a Pharisee tentmaker into a world evangelist.

Then there’s Jeremiah. His is a different kind of story altogether. He was called by God to warn the inhabitants of Judah that destruction would come if they did not return to God and follow his ways. It was not a one-time message. Over a period of forty years Jeremiah spoke many times of coming doom.

Almost no one listened. (A brief revival took place under King Josiah, but when he died, the people returned to their complacency and evil ways.)

We love the stories of Joseph, Moses, Paul, and others, whose perseverance was rewarded with success. But what about Jeremiah?

He, too, persevered through trials–poverty and deprivation, imprisonment and ill-treatment, rejection and ridicule. For what? According to the evidence (minimal results for his efforts), Jeremiah was a wretched failure. Yet he had obeyed God faithfully, endured patiently, and preached courageously.

Perhaps visible evidence is not the best way to quantify success.

Instead, the true measure of success involves our characters, not our acquisitions (Joshua 1:8).

The true measure of success may include the tenacity to get up every day and face the same tasks as yesterday, to persistently make choices that further God’s objectives for each of us, and to remain steadfast even when discouraged (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Last, a true measure of success is how our choices honor God (1 Kings 2:3). Jeremiah may not have turned thousands back to Yahweh, but that was not due to his lack of effort or disobedience to God. Jeremiah doggedly preached to the people of Judah—month after month, year after year.

So the true measure of success includes: 1) pursuing godly character, 2) persevering toward God-given purpose, and 3) making choices that honor him.

Today, such successful people might look like:

The parent who has put his career on hold to invest time in his young children.
the business owner who drives a twelve-year old car so he can give generously to ministries.
The college student slowly working her way through school, anxious to return to her inner city neighborhood and teach school

For those of us looking for that kind of success, Jeremiah is our hero.

He lived out these precepts :

Do our prayerful best and leave the results with God.

Press on–day by day, month by month, year by year if necessary. Allow such perseverance to build our trust in God and strengthen our character.

Persist until God tells us to stop. (How do we know we’ve reached that moment? Peace, not uncertainty, will fill our spirits.)

We may not understand what God is doing, but we know him. And he is holy love and perfect wisdom.*

*Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, p. 129.

(Art & photo credits: www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.pinterest.com (2); http://www.christianquotes.info; http://www.pilgrimsrock.com.)

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God of All

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Promises, Joy, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged God's Attributes, Psalm 145, Psalm 145:13, Psalm 145:14, Psalm 145:17, Psalm 145:18, Psalm 145:20, Psalm 145:9 on June 23, 2016| 15 Comments »

Nine times in Psalm 145, David used the word, “all” to describe the totality of God’s attributes and their far-reaching impact. These attributes fall into two sets, as follows.

The Lord is:

Good to all (v. 9a),
Compassionate on all he has made (v. 9b),
Faithful to all his promises (v. 13c), and
Loving toward all he has made (v. 13d).

In addition he:

Upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down (v. 14),
Is righteous in all his ways (v. 17a),
Is near to all who call upon him in truth (v. 18a), and
Watches over all who love him (v. 20a).

How glorious to consider that all these general statements apply individually also—to you and me.

With a bit of effort, these truths can be turned into personal praise:

My heart sings for joy, Father.

You are so good to me (v. 9a)—blessings abound.

Even at this moment I revel in your gently falling rain,

The sound of Steve puttering in the kitchen

(Thank you for a husband who likes to cook!),

And three year-old Elena* on the floor,

Writing a story about making pancakes with Mommy.

Your goodness is on display, even in small moments.

I praise you for your compassion (v. 9b),

Expressed through a doctor who, just last Saturday,

Offered consult on a weekend,

And even checked in on Monday morning.

Your compassion is evident in the kindness of strangers as well.

Just today a driver graciously gave me

the right-of-way on a narrow street,

Bestowing respect, favor, and a smile.

How thankful I am for your many promises in scripture (v. 13c)–

Over 2,300 statements of hope and encouragement–

Promises sometimes fulfilled in amazing and creative ways–

Classic promises like Romans 8:28 and 1 Peter 5:7,

Realized as Steve and I moved to different communities

And embarked upon new chapters of our lives.

Personal promises, like Ruth 2:11-12 and John 13:7—

Surprisingly well-suited to the moment.

I praise you for your loving nature (v. 13d),

Your attentiveness and favor expressed through

The cheer of bird song in the morning,

The grace and friendliness of people at church,

The inspiration of your Word,

The redemption from hurtful experiences of the past,

The peace of mind and joy of the Spirit

You infuse into each day.

And thank you for the sweet comfort of your presence (v. 18a)

That fills me with delight.

How precious are those times when

I sense your nearness,

When praise songs and scripture

Bring tears that clear my eyes

For the sight of you in your grace

And make the vision of your favor more precious (1).

Every day I want to praise you (v. 2).

You are pure goodness,

Manifested in infinite power,

Giving the light of truth, wisdom, and discernment.

Your glorious majesty reigns supreme over all creation.

And most amazing of all:

Everything you are, you offer to your children.

You are always seeking to manifest yourself to us.

Words fail to praise you adequately.

But, oh, how I yearn to do so!

*Our granddaughter

(1) based on a Charles Spurgeon quote

(Art & photo credits: www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pinterest.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.strongtowns.org; http://www.pinterest.com (4).

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At My Right Hand

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, God's Protection, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Wisdom, Intimacy with God, Uncategorized, tagged 1 John 2:1, God's watchful care, Proverbs 2:6, Psalm 103:13, Psalm 16:8, Psalm 28:7, Psalm 73:23 on June 9, 2016| 12 Comments »

Angie Perez sat on one side of her boss’s massive desk, he on the other. She began a lengthy list of reminders for the day…

“Now at ten o’clock this morning, George, you’re meeting with Sam about the Collins account. All the files you’ll need are in that portfolio. I put them in order from most important to least.” Angie pointed front-and-center with her pen.

“Great. ‘Appreciate you getting them organized.” George smiled. “I’ll need to review this paperwork beforehand—can you hold calls for me till I finish, probably around nine?”

Angie dashed herself a quick note. “Of course. And speaking of calls. Darcy Roberts already phoned, wanting to see you late this afternoon. I postponed her until tomorrow. I figured with your aunt’s seventy-fifth birthday dinner tonight, you’ll want to leave here on time today—maybe even early. You deserve to take a break after last week. Oh, and Aunt Lily’s gift is wrapped and ready to go in that black bag on the credenza.”

“Oh, terrific. Thanks again for picking up the necklace.” George turned to glance behind him at the lovely gift bag Angie had prepared. “You’re probably right about taking off a little early today. I’m exhausted. And good thinking about postponing Darcy. That woman can stretch five minutes of business into a half hour of stories I don’t need to hear.”

…And so, one right-hand administrative assistant sets into motion the day’s activity for one corporate executive.

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a right-hand assistant who took care of life’s unending details?

In reality, we have something far better: a right-hand God.

“I have set the Lord always before me.

Because he is at my right hand,

I will not be shaken”

-Psalm 16:8 (italics added)

With God at my right hand, I have the strongest Protector—able to shield me from trouble much worse than George’s talkative clients:

“The Lord is my strength and my shield;

my heart trusts in him and I am helped.”

Psalm 28:7

God is the wisest Counselor—able to advise on matters much more important than business accounts:

“The Lord gives wisdom,

And from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

–Proverbs 2:6

God is the sweetest Comforter, offering empathy and support:

“As a father has compassion on his children,

so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him.”

–Psalm 103:13

And our God is the most loyal Advocate:

“We have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—

Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.”

–1 John 2:1

God breathes strength into me by the touch of his hand. Granted, I can’t sense physical contact. But when I hear a hymn or worship song and tears well up, when I read a scripture or passage from a book that speaks directly to a current situation, it’s every bit as expressive of support as a clasp on the shoulder.

Our God is always close at hand, as if standing by, ready to assist however needed. He is always present, holding me by my right hand (Psalm 73:23).

And like a shade tree offering respite from the sweltering summer sun, God offers restful moments from the cares of this world.

“The Lord watches over you—

the Lord is your shade at your right hand.”

–Psalm 121:5

He renews our strength as we rely upon him (Isaiah 40:28-31), and offers the rejuvenation of constant hope because we know our heavenly home is waiting for us (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, O God, for your presence. You are near as my Friend, ready as my Helper, dependable as my Guide. How breathtaking to consider I am never alone, left to struggle on my own. You are always at my right hand.

(Art & photo credits: www.hercampus.com; http://www.pinterest.com (2); http://www.reviveourhearts.com; http://www.faithpictures.wordpress.com.)

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Father of Lights

Posted in God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Salvation, God's Wisdom, Uncategorized, tagged 2 Corinthians 3:18, 2 Corinthians 4:6, God is Light, John 8:12, Numbers 6:24-26, Psalm 119:105, Psalm 27:1, Romans 13:12 on June 2, 2016| 9 Comments »

You, oh God, are resplendent with light

As if full of fire—

Blazing with power, dazzling in majesty,

shimmering in an aura of glory (1).

You are the Father of lights—

The Creator of sun, moon, and stars.

From the moment You spoke them into being,

The heavenly lights have never ceased to shine (2).

Neither has your Light of Goodness

Ceased to shine upon your people.

You are loving and patient, generous and gracious,

Always seeking the brightest, highest good (3).

You are the Light of my Salvation,

Showing me the way to heaven through your Son, Jesus,

Guiding me home through the twists and turns of life,

The dark shadows of uncertainty and fear (4).

You are the Light of Life,

Providing Son-lit days of peace, joy, and contentment

As I avail myself of your calming presence,

And celebrate your gifts (5).

You are the Light of Truth,

Who graciously shares his omniscient wisdom with his people.

Through your Word you expose falsehoods and evil.

You show me the best way to live—side by side with You (6).

You are the Light of Holiness—

Pure and perfect, completely separate from all else in the universe.

Through Jesus you already see me as perfect,

Yet day by day you are molding me to be holy, like you (7).

You are the Light of Blessing,

Making your face shine upon me

With grace, mercy, and compassion,

Lovingly exercising your power for my benefit (8).

You provide the Light of the Knowledge of the Glory of God.

I find it when I seek your Son, Jesus.

His earthly life gives me a glimpse of your glory in human form–

A form I can more easily understand (9).

And now, you have made me a Child of the Light,

Called to reflect your glory to others,

Shining brighter, I pray, as the years pass,

Till the full light of day–inside heaven’s gates (10).

I praise you, oh God, that your Light shattered the darkness

Of evil that first Easter morning—and for all time.

I praise you for the privilege of living in that Light,

Now and into eternity!

Psalm 76:4; Ezekiel 1:28
James 1:17
Psalm 89:15, 34:8-9
Psalm 27:1; 23:4
John 8:12, 14:27; Psalm 16:11; Hebrews 13:5
Psalm 43:3; 119:105; Proverbs 6:23; Ecclesiastes 2:13
Isaiah 5:20; Romans 13:12
Numbers 6:24-26
2 Corinthians 4:6
Philippians 2:15-16; Ephesians 5:13; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Proverbs 4:18

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A Boat That Floats

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, Hope, Perseverance, Success, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged 1 Corinthians 1:9, Bouncing back from defeat, Dealing with setbacks, disappointment, Failure, Handling Difficulty, Hope, Hope in God, Psalm 145:13, Resiliency, Romans 15:4, satisfying life on May 30, 2016| 12 Comments »

My knowledge of boat parts is limited, but this much I know: throw an outboard motor in the water; it will sink. Throw a propeller in the water; it, too, will plunge to the bottom. So will seats, cleats, and other parts. But when they are assembled together on a strong hull, the boat floats.

Similarly, our lives are comprised of a variety of experiences: some heavy and hurtful, others light and joyful. When properly assembled as a whole, they create a life that floats, and one that’s headed on a course toward worthwhile purpose.

Proper assembly of negative as well as positive events requires the trait of resiliency—the ability to press on through setbacks again and again.

Do those words, press on, sound familiar? The great missionary-adventurer, Paul, said he pressed on toward the goal of becoming what God intended for him (Philippians 4:12-14). Paul is a worthy case-study for resiliency.

(The apostle Paul by Rembrandt)

He suffered plenty of hurt, disappointment, and failure. For example, Paul was:

stoned (Acts 14:19),

flogged and imprisoned (Acts 16:23),

unjustly charged with treason (Acts 18:13),

nearly killed on at least several occasions (Acts 21:30-31), and

rejected by many, even after brilliantly preaching about God and his Son, Jesus (Acts 17:16-34).

How do you bounce back from such defeats? Researchers have identified the following ways to cultivate resiliency:

Get real.

No one sails through life problem-free. Accept the reality that troubles will come, then apply those strategies that provide relief, strategies such as: exercise and proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, laughter, and meaningful activity, including acts of kindness each day.

Get hope.

Be watchful for God’s blessings in spite of the circumstances, and thank him for his loving attention. Gratitude does indeed transform attitudes.

Find fresh strength in God’s Word, especially in his promises and assurance of his faithfulness to keep those promises (Romans 15:4; Psalm 145:13; 1 Corinthians 1:9).

We can ask God to help us set new, worthwhile goals, then look forward to the day when those goals will be met.

Researchers have noted that resilient people do not strive for riches, fame, power, or recognition. Instead they are focused on their legacies—what contributions their lives will make to those around them. Hope in God—in all circumstances—is in itself an invaluable legacy.

Get in community with other Christians—not just by being present, but by actively participating.

Years ago while I was dealing with an ongoing disappointment, Sunday morning worship on the praise team and mid-week rehearsals did much to recharge my spirit. (Not that all was smooth sailing in between! I still struggled to stay on an even keel; but with God’s help I didn’t stop trying.)

In addition, when we contribute hope to others through listening and encouragement, we find our own outlook much improved.

* * *

A boat that floats is not built by just lining up the various parts in the boatyard. It requires the hands and expertise of a master boat builder, to craft a skiff of beauty, function, and purpose.

A satisfying, meaningful life cannot be achieved by mere acceptance of the various events in our lives. It requires the hands and expertise of the Master. He takes all of it—the delightful and the demoralizing—to craft a life of beauty, function, and purpose.

(The boat metaphor idea came from Ralph W. Sockman, author of The Higher Happiness (1950).

Art & photo credits: www.inland-boats.com; http://www.slideplayer.com; http://www.wikipedia.org; http://www.pinterest.com (3).

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Crazy Blessings!

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Salvation, God's Strength, God's Will, God's Wisdom, Godly Character, Hope, Maturity, Perseverance, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged Blessings, Dealing with life's challenges, Ecclesiastes 1:2, Failure, Handing failure, Handling Difficulty, Handling Disappointment, Isaiah 61:3, James 1:2, James 1:4, John 15:2, Matthew 5:6, Philippians 4:13 on May 23, 2016| 10 Comments »

Say the word, “blessing,” and what immediately comes to mind?

For me, it’s happy events and lovely gifts, engineered or bestowed by God out of his loving kindness.

But James, the brother of Jesus, saw a different side of blessing: “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides” (James 1:2, MSG, italics added).

Tests and challenges as gifts?! Sounds a bit daft—until we consider:

Take, for example…

THE CRAZY BLESSING OF WANT

Do you wish you had a bigger house? A newer car? Better furniture? Consider yourself blessed, that you’re not like King Solomon–the wealthiest person who ever lived. For all his striving to achieve and accumulate, Solomon discovered that when every desire is gratified, the end result was nothing but meaningless smoke (Ecclesiastes 1:2, MSG).

The blessing of want protects us from the pit of depression caused by self-indulgence.

The blessing of want fosters contentment, as we learn to enjoy and be grateful for what we already have.

THE CRAZY BLESSING OF DIFFICULTY

Difficulties provide a surprising number of positive opportunities. Here are ten:

To press in closer to God and trust him more completely.

To experience the adventure of God’s sufficiency (Philippians 4:13) as he enables us to endure—in ways we never thought possible.

To see how God will bring beauty out of ashes (Isaiah 61:3).

To discover more of who God is.

To witness the fulfillment of his never-failing promises.

To present a sacrifice of praise to God, beginning with the affirmation that he has our best interests at heart—in spite of what we see.

To be prepared for greater usefulness for God (John 15:2), which fosters greater fulfillment and satisfaction in our spirits.

To have a compelling story to share, as encouragement for others. Years ago I heard a speaker say, “With no test there is no testimony.” In the final analysis, I’d rather have the latter. You, too?

To become mature, complete, not lacking anything (James 1:4). That doesn’t happen without trials. As Thomas Carlyle wrote:

To love our Savior more passionately. Josif Trif, a pastor from Romania during the days of Communism, said, “If it weren’t for Communism, I would not have loved our Lord as much. I kissed the cross the Communists gave me” (1).

THE CRAZY BLESSING OF FAILURE

If failure served no purpose in our lives, God would not allow it to happen. But since he does, we can know that failure is either for our benefit or for God’s glory—often both.

Failure is the soil from which great success can grow, beginning with a crop of positive character traits, such as perseverance, humility, and greater reliance upon God.

Out of failure comes experience; from experience comes greater wisdom; and wisdom leads to a godly life.

“How blessed are those who are hungry and thirsty for righteousness, because it is they who will be satisfied (Matthew 5:6, ISV)!

* * * * * * * * * *

Crazy as it sounds, I want to praise you, Father, for the blessings of challenges and tough times. Thank you for your loving attention that carries me through, transforming me and makes me a better version of myself. I also praise you for the glorious promise that through trouble, hardship, disappointment, or pain–“overwhelming victory is ours through Christ” (Romans 8:37, NLT)!

What crazy blessing have you experienced in the crucible of trouble, hardship, disappointment, or pain? Please join the conversation below!

(1) His Imprint, My Expression, Kay Arthur, Harvest House, 1993, p. 135.

(Art & photo credits: www.imagesbuddy,com; http://www.wallpaper4god.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.izquotes.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.harvesttotable.com.)

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Wholeness

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Provision, God's Strength, God's Wisdom, Godly Character, Holiness, Uncategorized, tagged completeness, healing, Holiness, John 1:16, Luke 17:11-19, Luke 17:19, mind body and spirit, restoration, wholeness on May 19, 2016| 4 Comments »

After more than a week of full-blown cold symptoms—painful sore throat, totally stuffed-up nose, throbbing headache, and complete lack of energy–I finally woke up feeling more like my old self.

Such euphoria! I could swallow without pain, take in glorious gulps of air through my nose, and function without the tight hat of sinus pressure on my head or the virtual suit of heavy armor on my body. Throat, nose, head, and limbs were once again operating in unified wholeness!

But what if I still carried deep heartache, suffered from depression, or continually dealt with on-going stress at work? Relief of cold symptoms would be a small matter by comparison.

Unified wholeness must include mind and spirit as well as body.

This was the kind of completeness Jesus was referring to when he told a healed leper, “Arise, go your way: your faith has made you whole (Luke 17:19, King James 2000 Bible).

You no doubt remember him, the one-out-of-ten healed lepers who took an extra step beyond healing, returned to Jesus, and expressed his gratitude.

Such effort demonstrated a spirit of humility and righteousness as he set aside his own agenda and did the right thing. His faith had impacted his body, yes, but also his mind and spirit.

The leper’s wholeness* manifested holiness—not perfection or proud piousness—but completeness and health of the total person as God fully intended.

Thomas Carlyle (1795-1881) explained it like this:

“The old word for holy in the German language, heilig, also means healthy. And so Heilbronn means holy-well, or healthy-well. You could not get any better definition of what holy really is than healthy—completely healthy.”

Wholeness is holiness, and God is our example. He is the picture of complete perfection with the sum of his glorious attributes: love, joy, peace, wisdom, and more.

By contrast, we are pictures of imperfection, with our deficient condition and inability to perfect ourselves on our own.

Yet God comes to us, arms outstretched in welcome, and says, “Your faith can make you whole.” We can turn to him like that one leper did, and he will begin the work of making us like him.

Oh, that sounds wonderful! Just as I desperately want to be made whole when a cold wreaks havoc in my body, so I want to be made whole as sin wreaks havoc in my spirit.

But such transformation involves choices.

During a cold, the choices of rest and plenty of fluids will speed the healing process toward wholeness.

My mental and spiritual wholeness this side of heaven will also require at least two choices:

“Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always” (1 Chronicles 16:11, NIV).

Distill the positive out of the negative—goodness out of evil, peace out of pain, joy out of sorrow.

And from the fullness of Jesus’ grace we will receive one blessing after another (John 1:16)—beginning with his power and wisdom to make these sound choices toward wholeness.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh Father, sound choices are easy to talk about, not so easy to live out. Remind me that from your wholeness, you provide grace upon grace—if only I look to you. Help me turn away from fear, self-pity, and anger, which lead to brokenness, not wholeness. How I praise you for your good will toward me and the good work of restoration you continue to develop within me!

*Synonyms from Webster’s New College Dictionary include: health, restoration, healing, and completeness.

(Art & photo credits: www.families.com; http://www.youtube.com; http://www.verseoftheday.com; http://www.ourdailyblossom.com; http://www.verseoftheday.com.)

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Every Day

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, Joy, Praise, Prayer, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged celebrating simple pleasures, counting blessings, daily delights, savoring the moments on May 16, 2016| 12 Comments »

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(“Every day we should hear at least one little song,

read one good poem, see one exquisite picture,

and, if possible, speak a few sensible words.”

–Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1749-1838)

Author and lawyer, von Goethe, was much too easily satisfied.

Yes, a day without music would be dreary.

Poetry does feed the soul and intellect in ways that prose does not.

An exquisite picture does lift the spirit.

It’s also true that sharing a few words of wisdom can be satisfying.

Yet, is that enough for one day? What about:

Offering the music of “thank you” or “you go first” or “I love your smile?”

Reading and pondering several verses of scripture? That will feed the soul and intellect even more than poetry.

Creating an exquisite picture of kindness by finding ways to be helpful and engaging? Such artful living often impacts people more than we realize.

Speaking a few sensible words of encouragement, and feeling uplifted ourselves?

But beyond von Goethe’s suggestions of music, poetry, art, and wisdom are many more possibilities for a day full of delight. We can:

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Savor a pleasurable moment or memory–better yet, when the two happen back-to-back. Just today a neighbor girl whooshed by on her scooter, and I was reminded of happy, long ago days doing some whooshing of my own on bicycles or skates. I smiled.

Make a discovery or learn something new. Read. Listen. Think. Recently in C. S. Lewis’s The Weight of Glory (Eerdman’s Publishing, 1949), I came across this statement: “Obedience is the road to freedom, humility the road to pleasure, unity the road to personality” (p. 36). Well deserving of some careful pondering, I think.

Celebrate at least one small miracle of nature: a magnificent cloud formation, bright green growth on the tips of evergreen boughs, a cardinal’s song echoing through the woods.

Engage the creative side: draw (even if it’s doodling), paint (even if it’s adding color to someone else’s art), or write (even if it’s in a journal that no one else will see).

Offer a smile–wherever we are. “Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing. Peace begins with a smile” (Mother Teresa). Better yet, add words–a cheerful greeting, a compliment, a bit of gratitude.

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End the day by counting blessings. Drift off to sleep in an attitude of prayer–a prayer such as this:

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Father, for your gifts that offer daily delight–gifts like the warm pleasure of childhood memories bubbling to the surface unexpectedly, discoveries that challenge the mind and inspire the soul, and miracles of nature that amaze.

Thank you, oh God, for creating us in your image, including the ability to imagine, design, and produce. Thank you for the deep satisfaction of the creative process.

And thank you for the astounding privilege to be a positive influence in this world, an ambassador for your Son.

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(Art & photo credits: www.doublequotes.net; http://www.beactive.com; http://www.pinterest.com (2).

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Breathe/Live Deep!

Posted in Encouragement, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Strength, Intimacy with God, Joy, Meditation, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged Deep Breathing, Deep Living, Ecclesiastes 2:10-11, Ephesians 1:19, God's Presence, God's Strength, Gratitude, Joy, Meditation on God, Practicing God's Presence, Renewing the Mind on May 12, 2016| 4 Comments »

(reblogged from 10-24-13)

“Mail’s here early today!” called Lorna, as she entered the kitchen.

Oh, that was good news. Living far from home in Quito, Ecuador made letters a very precious commodity.

“Terrific!” I responded, and dashed upstairs to get my keys.

Lorna and her husband, Elbert, served as missionaries with HCJB. I was a short-termer, living with them for the four months of my assignment as a preschool and kindergarten teacher.

The compound was only a brief walk from the house. Once there, it was just a matter of unlocking the gate, heading down the main walkway a short distance, up a few steps, and into the post office alcove where all our mailboxes were located.

I jogged the whole way there and back, excited to read my mail. But no sooner did I return home than my head started to pound, nausea engulfed me, and all I wanted to do was lie down. Never mind those coveted letters!

My problem was not a sudden onset of the flu, but mild hypoxia–oxygen deprivation. Quito is located 10,000 feet above sea level in the Andes Mountains.

My experience (as well as those of countless others) proves: we humans require oxygen—lots of it.

Even folks who live near sea level can suffer from lack of oxygen, because they’ve become accustomed to shallow breathing. Their bodies never receive enough oxygenated air, causing them to feel short of breath and anxious.

On the other hand, research has proven that deep breathing helps us manage stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure and heart rate, and even spark brain growth. By not taking slow, deep breaths now and again, we deprive ourselves of these benefits.

M-m-m. Reminds me of Ecclesiastes 2:10-11, where King Solomon lamented the results of shallow living: chasing after wealth, accomplishments, and pleasure. In the end, nothing gave him lasting satisfaction and fulfillment.

Shallow living brings on symptoms in the spirit, similar to oxygen deprivation in the mind and body: heartache, fatigue with life, nausea from repetitive, meaningless activity, and shortness of temper.

In contrast to Solomon’s lament in Ecclesiastes is Paul’s praise to God for the power and strength of deep living:

“Oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength” (Ephesians 1:19, MSG)!

Deep living happens when we breathe in God’s strength with a prayer, his wisdom and encouragement with a scripture, his joy with a song.

Deep living happens when we practice his presence as automatically as we breathe.

And how do we do that, “practice his presence?”

By pausing frequently throughout each day, to turn our attention to God.

I might say such things as:

Thank You, Lord, for this new day. Work through me to accomplish your purpose.

I love you, Heavenly Father. Thank you for filling my heart with peace and joy every time I turn my attention to you.

Thank you for your power at work in me as I complete this task.

The wonders of your creation–graceful tree branches dancing in the breeze, lyrical songs of the mockingbirds, delicious aromas of pine and orange blossoms–They make my heart sing with praise!

Oh, Lord, I shouldn’t have spoken to Mary like that. Forgive me, I pray. Help me to think before I speak. And yes, I will apologize to her.

Refreshing. Energizing. Purifying. Like a deep breath of oxygen.

Shallow breathing causes a lesser quality of life. So does shallow living.

Deep breathing fosters strength of mind and body. Deep living does that and more.

Deep living radically transforms the spirit.

Let’s breathe/live deep!

* * * * * * * * * *

What deep living habits help you practice the presence of God?

(photo credit: http://www.wikipedia.com)

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