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The Five Senses of the Heart

Posted in God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Seeking God, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged A. W. Tozer, Experiencing God, Faith, God's Creative Genius, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, James 4:7, John 10:27, Meditation, Praise, Psalm 34:8, Psalm 45:8, Seeking God, Worship on August 22, 2013| 27 Comments »

Think of the last time you . . .

. . . gazed in wonder at a blazing sunset,

. . . marveled at the heavenly aroma of lilacs or orange blossoms, or

. . . listened to a melody that brought tears to your eyes.

God has equipped us with amazing physical senses, enabling us to experience and enjoy the display of his creative genius.

But physical manifestations are not his only outlet of expression. God also revels in displaying his fullness in our hearts. The question is: how do we become aware of such revelations in the abstract realm of our spirits?

A.W. Tozer presents a possibility in his classic, The Pursuit of God. He suggests we use the senses of our hearts.

The Bible gives us glimpses of how these internal senses might work.

1. TASTE

David urges us to “taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8). That verse reminds me of a father urging his child to try a bite of some new food. “Try it—you’ll like it!” he says.

As Christians, we can “try” God—offer him a prayer, believe in a promise, trust in his love and care. He will not ignore such efforts! When we come near to God, he will come near to us (James 4:7).

2. SMELL

Although Psalm 45 was written as a wedding song, perhaps for King Solomon, it also has prophetic qualities, looking forward to the day when Christ and his bride, the church, will be united forever. Verse 8 mentions the groom’s fragrant robes:

“All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia,” wrote the psalmist.

Think of a favorite candle with a delightful aroma. Do you light it and then leave it? No, more than likely you place that candle in close proximity, so you can breathe in deeply the lovely fragrance and relish the pleasure.

We can draw near to God and relish the pleasure of his presence—the fragrance of his peace, joy, and comfort.

3. HEARING

Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27).

His voice represents wisdom, guidance, encouragement, and security. Our primary source for those benefits? The Bible. But God also speaks to his children in other ways: through creation, other people, events, even inner impressions.

Times of stillness are necessary. If every moment is filled with chatter, we will not be able to hear God.

4. TOUCH

Talk to those who have sought God during a crisis and without exception they will attest to sensing God’s presence with them. For me, it’s like a holy heart-hug, infusing me with peace of mind and strength of heart. Not that I am impervious to hurt or discouragement, but the touch of God provides respite and hope.

How? Through praise and worship, especially as I meditate in the psalms.

5. SIGHT

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:8).

The verb tense used here is called “future continuous.” The verse could read: “They shall be continually seeing God for themselves.”

I’m reminded of a time Steve and I visited friends at their new home. We turned off a familiar busy street and were almost immediately surrounded by tall trees. The homes were set back from the road, barely visible. The neighborhood was a bit of country set down in the middle of our metropolis.

“Who knew this area even existed?” I said to Steve. He agreed.

We had both passed that street numerous times, but never saw it.

Isn’t that how it is with God? We’re so busy, dashing from one task to the next, we never see God at work around us. We aren’t looking for him so we miss him.

But! When we are attentive for evidence of God’s presence and power, we will see him!

“When the habit of inwardly gazing Godward

becomes fixed within us,

we shall be ushered onto

a new level of spiritual life.”

– A.W. Tozer

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, loving Father, that you do expand my understanding as I seek to know you more and strive to comprehend more fully the greatness of your glory. Teach me to use the five senses of my heart to accomplish those goals. With great anticipation, I look forward to the new levels of spiritual life to which you will guide me!

(Photo credits: www.flickr.com (2); www.roshchodeshnewmoon; http://www.canva.com http://www.pixabay.com; www.flickr.com.)

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Imagine

Posted in Book Reviews, Encouragement, Faith, God's Grace, God's Promises, Hope, Uncategorized, tagged Encouragement, Faith, God's Grace, God's Promises, Hope, Jon Bloom, Old Testament Joseph on August 12, 2013| 6 Comments »

Not by Sight: A Fresh Look at Old Stories of Walking by Faith - By: Jon Bloom, John Piper

Imagine…

…the woman caught in adultery (John 8:2-11), walking home after her encounter with Jesus. What must she have been thinking?

…Zacchaeus, the despised tax collector, coming to your door to return the money he owed you—plus four times more (Luke 19:1-10). What would have been your reaction?

…how it felt to be Joseph Barsabbas, the candidate not chosen to replace Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:26). How might he have responded?

These are just three out of thirty-five scenarios Jon Bloom explores in his book, Not by Sight: A Fresh Look at Old Stories of Walking by Faith (Crossway Books, 2013). Indeed, they are fresh, creative takes on familiar Bible stories.

And although quite short, just three pages or so in length, each vignette still gives plenty of food for thought. I found them to be compelling, insightful, and instructive—encouraging my walk of faith.

One of my favorites is “Staying Faithful When Things Get Worse.” Jon imagines what Joseph must have been thinking as a falsely accused prisoner in Egypt. For at least twelve years he endured the hellish conditions and tormenting hopelessness. Those should have been the best years of Joseph’s life—his youth. Many would have said, “What a waste.”

Imagine year nine, Jon suggests. Surely Joseph fought against depression and discouragement, even as he recited to himself the promises of God. No doubt he reviewed in his mind the stories of his ancestors—Abraham, Isaac, and even those of his own father, Jacob.

Jon Bloom imagines Joseph affirming repeatedly that, just as God had been faithful to them, he would be faithful to Joseph. Each patriarch had faced situations that seemed impossible.

Abraham and Sarah were much too old to have a child.

The older brother, Esau, would never serve his younger brother, Jacob–even if the age difference between twins was slight. That promise of God went against all tradition and logic.

Jacob was a poor runaway. He couldn’t possibly become a wealthy herdsman.

But each man and his family had been blessed, just as God had promised. Why? They remained faithful. Yes, they made mistakes and failed to obey God on occasion. But they never turned their backs on him, even when circumstances turned bleak.

Jon Bloom also imagines Joseph reaffirming his faith in God and his willingness to wait for him to act. Meanwhile, he would continue to honor God, even within prison walls.

As Jon brings the vignette to a close, he shares fresh application:

Even in the care of Almighty God, circumstances may get worse, not better. “Faith in God’s future grace for us is what sustains us in those desperate moments,” Jon says. Our hope is best placed in God, in his promises, and especially the assurance of eternal bliss in heaven yet to come.

Jon Bloom perfectly fulfills the role of a writer, as defined by Anais Nin, American author of the twentieth century: “The role of a writer is not to say what we all can say, but what we are unable to say.”

Page after page, this is what Jon Bloom did for me. No doubt he will do the same for you.

(Art Credits: www.angieblattner.theworldrace.org ; www.illustrationartgallery.com )

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Float by Faith

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Protection, God's Provision, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged 1 Chronicles 16:8-36, Charles Spurgeon, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Provision, Isaiah 30:15, Psalm 62:5, Worry on August 5, 2013| 35 Comments »

Years ago in my hometown, when the community pool was built, Dad often took my brother and me swimming. I marveled at the way my father could slice the water with a smooth dive, roll over on his back, and float. Without even moving his arms and legs, he could remain on top of the water. Amazing!

When I tried it, I sank–immediately.

“Daddy! Show me how to float!” I cried.

First, he helped me to lie flat-out on top of the water. His hand gently supported the middle of my back. And then Dad said the strangest thing.

“Now, relax.”

What?! Every fiber of my being was tense. I just knew that if I relaxed, my nose would instantly fill up with heavily chlorinated water.

But I trusted Dad. He wouldn’t trick me into a catastrophe. So I tried to relax.

Easier said than done. Try as I might, my body would not relax. My focus was more on the possibility of sinking than it was on the one thing that would keep me afloat.

“That’s OK,” Dad probably said. “This is just your first try. Keep practicing, and all of a sudden you’ll get the feel of it. That’s how it happened for me.”

This experience came to mind as I read Charles Spurgeon’s comment on an excerpt from Isaiah 30:15.

First, the scripture-excerpt: “In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.”

And now, the Spurgeon quote: “We are sinking by our struggles when we might float by faith.”

But learning to relax in the spiritual realm is just as difficult as it was to relax on my back in that swimming pool. It is so much easier said than done–at least for me.

Why is fretting and worrying my default mode? It’s so pointless. Resting in God is the only way to hope and peace (Psalm 62:5).

The big question is how. How can I relax into quiet confidence that will be my strength, and keep me afloat?

Perhaps the answer is in that word practice. As I reaffirm over and over God’s glorious attributes, as I review His wonderful promises, my focus will change and my spirit will learn how to rest.

What attributes might be wise to focus on? King David included a number of them in his glorious psalm of thanksgiving, found in 1 Chronicles 16:8-36:

Power (vs. 9, 12, 14) – He is able to work wonders.
Integrity (v. 15) – He is totally trustworthy.
Holiness (v. 29) – He is absolutely pure and righteous, totally set apart from anyone else in the universe.
Goodness (v. 34) – His blessings to us are bountiful and frequently displayed.
Love (v. 34) – Not based on our paltry deeds, but on his kind and gracious nature.

And what promises would build my confidence? Here are three for a good start:

“As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him” (Psalm 18:30).
“My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
“I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them” (Isaiah 42:16).

Notice: He promises protection, provision, and guidance. Everything we might face is covered.

Thinking back to those summer days at the community pool, I’m reminded of two things that happen when we float: 1) Our eyes are focused upward. 2) Our ears cannot hear very well, situated as they are beneath the surface. Noise is silenced.

Those two things need to happen in the spiritual realm if we’re to float by faith. Our eyes need to be focused upward on our powerful, loving, promise-keeping God, and our ears need to be stopped to the voices of worry.

The former will undoubtedly take care of the latter.

(Photo credits: www.sciforums.com ; www.dailyencouragement.net ; www.flickr.com ; www.confessionsofasmowflake.com )

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Sparrows in God’s Hand

Posted in Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Protection, God's Provision, God's Refuge, Self-Esteem, Uncategorized, tagged 1 Corinthians 2:16, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Provision, Isaiah 40:11, Matthew 10:29-31, Psalm 119:28, Psalm 91:1-2 on August 1, 2013| 16 Comments »

Group of sparrows. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father…So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows” (Matthew 10:29, 31).

Why did Jesus choose sparrows for this illustration?

They’re so small and common. (Have you ever felt unimportant and ordinary?)

Sparrows were of such little value in Jesus’ day, they were sold two for a penny. The poor would buy them to eat—a cheap source of protein.

Nobody much cared about sparrows in Bible times; most folks still don’t care today. They’re just drab little birds we see every day—hardly worth our attention.

But the smallest, drabbest sparrow doesn’t slip by God’s attention. Not one can fall to the ground without God knowing. And if he knows and cares about the sparrows, he certainly knows and cares about each of us. Verse thirty-one makes it clear: “You are worth more than many sparrows.”

There’s a modicum of comfort in the knowledge that God sees our situations. To be honest, though, the fact that he just knows isn’t all that helpful.

Better yet is the news that not one sparrow can fall without God’s consent.

Nothing happens to us that hasn’t first received the stamp of approval from God Almighty.

“Wait a minute,” you might say. “If a sparrow falls, he’s likely to die. Not much comfort in that either– knowing that God gave his OK!

Here’s what I want to embrace: we have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16b), right? When it’s my turn to fall off the branch, I want to be able to affirm, “Yes, Lord. Whatever you think is best is A-OK with me. I know I can trust you because you love me. And I rejoice in the promise that whatever happens, you will bring good from it.” (Remind me of that truth when I start to wobble, will you?)

But here’s the best news: Notice that Jesus didn’t speak of God as some detached, omnipotent being.

He said, Father.

It is our gracious and kind Heavenly Father who tenderly watches over his little sparrows.

Red Bike (Photo credit: swanksalot)

Think of a loving mother who witnesses her small son falling off his bike. When he gets up with a scraped knee, she won’t just say, “Oh, I saw that happen, Johnny. I’m so sorry you’re hurting.” Small comfort in that.

No, that mother will run to her son, hold him in her arms, talk to him reassuringly, take him to the house, and patch him up. That’s just what a loving parent does.

When trouble comes, our loving Heavenly Father is right there with us, just like that mother.

He holds us. Isaiah wrote, “He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart” (40:11).

He talks reassuringly to us, especially through His Word. With the psalmist, we can pray, “Strengthen me according to your word” (Psalm 119:28b).

God is our refuge and sanctuary; he is our home, our dwelling place. (Psalm 91:1-2).

And God patches us up; he restores our souls (Psalm 23:3). He renews our energy, purpose, and hope.

So, “Don’t be afraid,” he says. “If I take care of the sparrows, I will most certainly take care of you, because you are worth more than many sparrows.”

See? You’re not small, unimportant, and ordinary–not at all!

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Lord, for not playing favorites. What glorious news that each of us is precious to you! Thank you also for being an attentive God who tenderly watches over us. And especially thank you for being an involved God, always acting on our behalf, and always for our good. We are in awe of you, our loving, gracious Heavenly Father!

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Satisfaction Guaranteed

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged Appreciation, Blessings, Contentment, Encouragement, God's Goodness, Gratitude, John D Rockefeller, Praise, Proverbs 19:23, Satisfaction, Worship on July 29, 2013| 13 Comments »

Why is it we’re never satisfied?

As kids, we could hardly wait to grow up—to stay up late, drive a car, and never have to go to school.

As adults, we sometimes wish we were kids again—to play all day, take a nap, and never have to go to work.

As kids, time seemed to move slowly—especially when looking forward to a special event. Remember how L-O-O-O-N-G it took for Christmas to come?

As adults, time seems to move extremely fast—especially as Christmas approaches and the cards haven’t been sent, the gifts haven’t all been purchased yet, and the tree still sits in a bucket of water on the back porch.

We might go shopping and come home with a new bedspread and pillows. For a while we’re delighted over the difference those items make to the decor.

In no time, though, our focus shifts from those lovely things to other needs we identify around the house.

Reminds me of what oil tycoon, John D. Rockefeller (1837-1939) said. He was asked, “How much is enough?” And he answered, “A little bit more.”

John D. Rockefeller, ca 1875

This from a man with an estimated fortune of $1.4 billion. In fact, Rockefeller was one of the wealthiest persons of all history. Not even Bill Gates or Sam Walton come close.

But before we dismiss Mr. Rockefeller as selfish and greedy, it’s important to know he was generous with his fortune. His financial records indicate that $550 million were donated to schools, health organizations, scientific research, and the arts.

But his comment (perhaps spoken with a twinkle of humor in his eye) speaks to the attitude of many. We believe that with just a little more, we’d be content.

That’s a lie.

So what is the truth of the matter? What’s the real reason we’re never satisfied?

The answer might be that contentment is the result of our focus. Our attitude is impacted by what occupies our thoughts. Therefore, we would be wise to:

1. Stay focused on who we are right now, and where we are right now. Every age and stage has its advantages and disadvantages.

2. Stay focused on what God is providing, what we have currently.

3. Stay focused on God’s attributes and blessings. “The fear of the Lord leads to life: then one rests content, untouched by trouble” (Proverbs 19:23).

To fear the Lord means to have reverence and awe for him. Such an attitude leads to many benefits in life, including:

peace of mind, because our powerful and loving God is in control
joy of heart, because of the pleasure in his bountiful blessings,
contentment of spirit, because we’ve already received so much.

That’s how I want to live—totally satisfied, in complete serenity, as a worshipful tribute to my gracious God.

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for the gifts of serenity and satisfaction, when I focus on you. May my days be filled with your praise!

Photo credits: http://www.flickr.com; http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.commons.wikipedia.org; http://www.wallpaperflare.com (2).

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Palms, Cedars, and Helen Hayes

Posted in Blessings, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Love, God's Promises, Godly Character, Maturity, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged Blessings, Charles Spurgeon, Christian Service, Encouragement, Faith, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Promises, God's Provision, Godly Character, Grace, Gratitude, Praise, Psalm 92:12-15, Worship on July 18, 2013| 10 Comments »

Back in the 1970s I saw Helen Hayes in a made-for-TV movie. Some of you may recognize her. She was known as the “First Lady of the American Theater,” beginning her career on Broadway in 1905, when she was only five years old. In the 1930s, Helen expanded her stardom to films, and finally to television.

The reason she comes to mind now and then is the impression she made upon me, as an energetic, sparkly eyed senior citizen. I remember thinking, “When I get old, I want to be like that!”

Poof. Four decades have passed, and I am indeed getting old! I don’t feel like it, but that doesn’t stop the incessant turning of the calendar pages.

So I was delighted to come across these verses from Psalm 92 that cast aging in a positive light:

“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, “The Lord is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him” (vs. 12-15).

Palm trees do indeed flourish, living up to 100 years. Withstanding heat, drought, and high winds, these trees stand tall and strong; their leaves fresh and green all year long.

What a perfect picture of an energetic, sparkly eyed senior citizen!

How do we achieve such age-defying qualities?

First, notice that the righteous will flourish. When our faith is grounded in God, when we follow his principles for a prosperous life, we flourish.

Like the palm tree that grows straight up toward heaven, the righteous reach for the God of heaven. That’s how they’re able to stand strong through the winds of change and difficult circumstances.

The psalmist then continues: “The righteous will…grow like a cedar of Lebanon.”

Majestic cedar trees grow to 120 feet in height and up to 30 feet in circumference. They provide the perfect picture of a firm, stable person. Just as the cedar’s roots go deep into the soil, so the righteous person is rooted and grounded in God’s love (Ephesians 3:17). From those roots comes the nourishment needed to remain strong and spiritually healthy.

Second, notice where these trees are planted: in the house of the Lord. They flourish in the courts of our God.

Charles Spurgeon, that eloquent preacher and writer of the 1800s, had this to say about those who dwell in habitual fellowship with God: “They shall become men [and women] of full growth, rich in grace, happy in experience, mighty in influence, honored and honorable.” Now that sounds like a very satisfying way to live—so much better than the opposite!

Think of a complaining oldster whose mouth turns down from constant disgruntlement. His bottom lip protrudes from perpetual pouting, and his brow is permanently lowered into a frown because anger often rules his emotions. All this negativity has stunted the growth of his maturity. He’s unhappy much of the time, and is not held in high regard by others. Do you suppose he ever considers that his way of life is terribly unsatisfying?

However! When our lives are centered upon worship of God, as we express gratitude for his blessings, praise for his attributes, contentment for where he’s placed us, and joy in the midst of trials, we become those admirable men and women Dr. Spurgeon described above: mature, gracious, and happy.

Dr. Spurgeon also added “mighty in influence and honored.” God rewards the righteous aged with “fruit.” In other words, we may still bring glory to God by our words and actions—well into old age.

We can be:

Energetic—with the power of the Holy Spirit
sparkly-eyed—with the indwelling of God’s peace
grace-filled—with continual demonstrations of God’s love to others
joyful—with hearts focused on God’s blessings

These kinds of saints provide a powerful example of God’s faithfulness—through pleasant times and challenges, through plenty and want, year after year.

May we continue to grow deep and stand tall—all the days of our lives.

(photo credits: www.pachd.com, www.captainkimo.com, www.forestertreeservice.com, www.centrifueleadership.com, www.seniors.ovetoknow.com)

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Fireflies in the Dark

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Love, tagged Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Love on July 15, 2013| 14 Comments »

“Come on, Mommy! Let’s catch fireflies!”

Each evening, while visiting her uncle’s home in the Midwest, our granddaughter, Sophie, wanted to capture those glowing insects. Where she lives in the Pacific Northwest, the little creatures do not abound.

I, too, was visiting Sophie’s uncle (my son) and delighted in those fireflies as much as she did. That’s because Steve and I have lived in Florida for over thirty years, and although a habitat map for fireflies includes our state, I’ve never seen one here.

During our visit, we’d all sit on the front porch in the evening. Sophie and I, in particular, would watch for the magical moment when the soft, silent glimmering would begin.

The fireflies drifted up from the grass and lilies of the valley in front of the house. Just a few at first. But soon there were too many to count.

I became curious about whether they blink at even intervals or not. Since they move slowly, it was quite easy to choose one, follow its course, and count the seconds between blinks. I can confidently report that this particular variety (There are over 2000 world-wide!) chooses to blink at random, although within a range of 4-6 seconds.

As soon as the first firefly was spotted, Sophie was off the porch and into the yard with her jar. She took great joy in the catching, but kindly released them when it was time for bed.

We’d say good-bye as each one took flight from the edge of the jar. I gave them names.

“Good-bye, Floyd!”

“Sleep well, Beulah!”

“See you again tomorrow night, Fred!”

* * * * * * * * * *

These images came to mind as I read, “Love in the Dark,” by Danielle Ayers Jones–a meaningful post for the (in)courage blog, July 9. She wrote about experiencing God’s love, even in the midst of dark, hard, confusing, even seemingly hopeless circumstances. Joseph was her example.

As I read, I thought of those fireflies in the dark we had witnessed just the week before. The soft glimmer, blinking here and there, reminded me: the steadfast love and favor of God glimmers here and there in all circumstances—including the hard, confusing times. Sometimes it’s an encouraging word from a friend, a Bible verse that speaks directly to our situation, or an unexpected God-incident that ministers to our hearts.

That word unexpected highlights how our God works. He likes to surprise us sometimes. His glowing love gifts often come randomly, not at precise intervals.

We have to keep alert or we might miss the blessings.

But the more alert we become, the more we’ll see—until we can no longer keep count.

What fireflies have glowed in the night for you? In other words, how has God’s love penetrated the darkness in your life? Please share your experience in the comment section below.

(Art & photo credits: www.headofleslie.com; addins.wwa.com; http://www.charlottesfancy.com)

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God’s Blessing on All Things

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God, God's Goodness, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Appreciation, Blessing, Exodus 23:25, God's Goodness, Praise, Psalm 145, Worship on July 11, 2013| 9 Comments »

“Worship the Lord your God and his blessing will be on your food and water” (Exodus 23:25a).

Food and water. Common, everyday things. But this verse promises God’s blessing on them. In other words, even the mundane things of life can put smiles on our faces.

Mundane things like:

The graceful dance of tree limbs in a soft breeze
The tapping of rain on the roof, while cozied up in bed
The spontaneous hug of a child

Such delightful gifts are embarrassingly easy to overlook. Most of us are much too busy and moving too fast.

So how do we take hold of these subtle blessings and treasure them? The first five words of the verse give the answer. It happens when we worship the Lord our God.

I’m not talking about the hour or two we may spend in church sometime on Saturday or Sunday.

Worship means expressing to God his worth—his worth-ship. And it’s something we can enjoy all day, every day.

Yes, I said “enjoy,” because worship should be celebratory.

One means of celebrating our God is to express appreciation. “Always give thanks to God the Father for everything,” Paul recommended (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

As we begin to notice and appreciate all the delights God has bestowed, we experience a contentment and steadiness of spirit that defies explanation. And to be contented and steady is a very blessed way to live!

Another means of celebrating our God is to express praise. Gratitude expresses appreciation for what he’s done in the past, what he’s doing in the present, and what he will do in the future. Praise expresses admiration for who he is and honors him for his glorious attributes.

Attributes like:

Creativity, inspiring him to design tree branches that dance and sway in the breeze
Loving kindness, expressed with pleasurable gifts like raindrops rapping on the rooftop
Comfort, offered through the spontaneous hug of a child

As we begin to praise God for his attributes, we experience a change of perspective. Our attention moves from personal circumstances to God Almighty. He is:

Glorious in the splendor of his majesty
Capable of awesome works
Abundant in his goodness and compassionate on all he has made
Faithful to all his promises and righteous in all his ways

Interested in more descriptors? See Psalm 145!

Bottom line: When worship is an integral part of our lives, joy abounds, because God’s blessing rests upon us in all things!

“Worship the Lord your God and his blessing will be on your food and water” (Exodus 23:25a).

Such a simple exercise to implement; yet such astounding results.

* * * * * * * * * *

(Art & photo credits: http://www.lawlessgallery.com ; http://www.godwordistruth.wordpress.com ; http://www.lessonsinashell.blogspot.com )

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Seeking God

Posted in Faith, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Seeking God, tagged Faith, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Jeremiah 29:13, Romans 1:19, Seeking God on July 8, 2013| 39 Comments »

Seeking after God. It’s a concept we come across frequently in scripture. But God is Spirit; he’s invisible to us. How do we seek after someone we can’t see?

Perhaps we can answer that question by considering the ways we seek a person, who can be seen.

Example #1:

When my husband, Steve, and I are separated in a crowd, it’s quite amazing how quickly I can spot him. Beyond height, hair, and eye color, I know the breadth of his shoulders, the way the hair grows on the back of his head, the shape of his ears. In fact, it’s such nuances as these that draw my attention, even more than the descriptors listed on his driver’s license.

Perhaps our first step in seeking God is to get to know what he looks like, although not his physical Being, since he’s chosen not to reveal himself that way. But as we read his Word, the Bible, we become familiar with who he is. Through frequent, thoughtful study—not occasional reading—we learn about his character and his ways. One guiding question can train us to seek God as we study: What does this passage teach me about God?

Example #2:

Sometimes I find Steve in a crowd when I hear his voice or the timbre of his laugh.

Step two in seeking God: We can listen carefully for his voice, although he rarely chooses to speak audibly. More often he communicates his wisdom and encouragement to us through the Bible, and the voices of wise and mature Christians—spoken and written.

God also speaks directly into our spirits, so we must cultivate the habit of listening carefully for strong but silent impressions. We can ask God to make clear if those thoughts are indeed from him. He will affirm.

Example #3:

I know Steve’s signature. Give me a sheaf of papers with Steve’s name written by different people, and his distinctive style will stand out from the others.

Step three in seeking God: Look for his distinctive signature of wisdom and power in his people and in God-incidents.

Even in creation, “God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made” (Romans 1:19).

Take note of the slow loops of a circling hawk, the graceful curve of a flower stem, the straight, tall sentries of a pine forest. Pay attention to the perfect oval of a ladybug, the teardrop shape of a milkweed seed, or the mounds of clouds in a summer sky. You’ll soon find that God loves variety, pattern, organization, beauty, intricacy, and color. Your heart will begin to respond with wonder and praise for your magnificent, powerful God.

Example #4:

Steve doesn’t even have to be with me, and my thoughts will turn to him. A song, a phrase, a person who reminds me of someone from our past, and I think, “Oh, Steve would like this,” or, “I’ll bet Steve would agree he looks just like So-and-So.”

Just looking down at my new Mother’s Day watch, and I’m reminded of my thoughtful, generous husband.

Step four in seeking God: As we get to know God through the Bible, as we learn to hear his voice, as we see his signature everywhere, we find our thoughts turning to him throughout the day. A song may urge a response of praise. A phrase might prompt a prayer, a person’s gracious kindness causes us to reflect upon his character shining through that individual.

And every blessing should result in gratitude.

Seeking God is an ongoing, progressional process. Awareness of his presence grows slowly yet continually. Perhaps God planned it that way so we always have more delights to discover about our Heavenly Father until we do see him face to face.

Seeking after God can begin with a simple prayer: God, I want to know you more intimately, to sense your presence even though I can’t physically see you. And I want you to be an integral part of my life and thoughts. Nothing could be more satisfying than a close relationship with you. This is what I seek.

That’s my prayer. Will you seek God with me? What steps have helped you to seek after God?

(Art & photo credits: www.experienceproject.com; http://www.luddite1811.blogspot.com; http://www.revelife.com; http://www.finartamerica.com; www.hullquist.com.)

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Compelling Evidence

Posted in God's Power, Uncategorized, tagged Alexander the Great, Babylonia, Biblical Prophecy, Ezekiel 26, God's Power, God's Provision, Nebuchadnezzar, Tyre Lebanon on July 5, 2013| 4 Comments »

“Glorious and majestic are his deeds,” the psalmist proclaimed (111:3a).

And what might those glorious and majestic deeds include? The creation of every molecule in the universe. The fact that he sustains creation. The blessings he graciously bestows, the miracles.

But also quite glorious and majestic are the fulfillments of detailed predictions he revealed to prophets, sometimes hundreds of years ahead of time. With pinpoint accuracy, those predictions became historical fact.

Here’s one amazing example.

Tyre, located strategically on the Mediterranean Sea, had become a center for international trade by the 500s B.C. And as a result of its healthy commerce, the city also enjoyed political importance.

Yet the prophet Ezekiel foretold that many nations would come against Tyre (Ezekiel 26:3). Sure enough, the army of the Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar (of fiery furnace fame), began siege in 585 B.C., and continued year after year.

No doubt the inhabitants laughed at his folly. Behind the stout fortifications around the city they felt safe from attack, and enjoyed a constant flow of supplies that came by ship on the coastal side of the city. (Nebuchadnezzar had no navy.)

After twelve years the Babylonians finally broke through the gates, only to find the city abandoned. The mainland Tyrians had simply moved to the island portion of their city, a half mile from shore. It too was fortified. The Babylonian army gave up; Tyre probably thought they were home free.

But Nebuchadnezzar wasn’t the only one who coveted this prime seaside location. Remember, Ezekiel proclaimed many nations would come against this city, and historians have proven the accuracy of this statement.

Over the next 150 years, the Persians, Macedonians, Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, and Syrians came against Tyre. For 150 years, no one succeeded in conquering the island city. I can only imagine how proud they must have felt.

But according to Ezekiel, their walls would be destroyed and their watch towers pulled down. The rubble would be scraped away and the site of the prosperous city would be laid bare. The city site would become a place to dry fish nets (vs. 4-5).

Right on God’s schedule, Alexander the Great entered the scene in 332 B.C. He executed a very creative idea, no doubt planted in his mind by the Father of Creativity himself.

Alexander instructed his army to take the rubble from the mainland site and build a wide causeway to the island fortress. Then he marched his men across, and conquered the city.

Bust of Alexander the Great, housed in the British Museum.

Isaiah also prophesied concerning Tyre, that after 70 years of devastation, the city would again become a bustling trade center (23:15). Numerous times in the New Testament Tyre is mentioned.

So what about Ezekiel’s proclamation that Tyre would become a bare rock? Such a fantastic finish to a prediction that must have seemed impossible.

Along came Saladin, sultan of Egypt, who became ruler of the region between Egypt and Arabia. He completely destroyed the city of Tyre in 1187.

Soon sand built up in the harbors, rendering them useless for ship traffic. For 600 years, fishermen did indeed dry their nets on the rocks and rubble. The city never regained the prominence it once knew.

Critics might scoff, “Mere coincidence!” But look at the evidence of seven facts proclaimed about Tyre in Ezekiel 26. Note the details of Nebuchadnezzar’s siege, laid out in verses 7-12. What are the odds that such precise predictions could become fact with 100% accuracy?

Perhaps the story of Tyre is one to remember for those times when someone says, “I just don’t know if I can believe the Bible. How can we know it’s not just a collection of allegorical stories?”

Fulfilled prophecy offers compelling evidence.

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Father, for reminding me of this amazing story, proving once again that You are God, there is no other like you. Your purpose will stand…What you have said, you bring about; what you have planned, you do (Isaiah 46:9-11). Thank you for being that kind of God, in whom we can have complete trust!

Art & photo credits: http://www.wikimedia.org (2); http://www.worldhistory.org.

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