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Archive for the ‘Hope’ Category

Uplift

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Strength, Hope, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Peace, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on April 16, 2026| 46 Comments »

A prayer in the midst of distress:

Heavy concerns weigh upon my heart, Lord,

beyond my abilities to remedy.

My thoughts bounce from faith-affirmations 

to faltering “what-ifs.”

I wonder, “How long, O Lord; how long?” (Psalm 6:3)

And so I come, to curl up on your footstool (Psalm 132:7), 

to rest in your comforting presence ( Psalm 62:1),

to catch my breath, slow my heart rate, and

look to you for uplift in my mind and spirit (Psalm 145:14).

I hear your tender voice reminding me:

“I am watching over you (Psalm 121:8),

surrounding you with my unfailing love (Psalm 32:10). 

Just as I’ve promised in my Word,

I will provide guidance for the path ahead (Proverbs 3:5-6)

and the power to endure (Isaiah 40:29).

I am faithful in all I do, never forsaking those who seek me (Psalm 36:5; Psalm 9:10).

Remember, I have always been your help (Psalm 46:1);

I have always sustained you through every challenge (Isaiah 41:10).”

Thank you, Father, for your reassurances.

Already I feel strength returning to my soul (Psalm 138:3)

and hope cheering my heart (Psalm 94:19).

I praise you for your attentiveness (Matthew 10:29-31)—

your watchful care, unfailing love, and reliable guidance, 

your unstoppable power, everlasting faithfulness, and ever-ready help.*

I picture you reaching down,

cupping my chin in your hand,

and lifting my head to look into your eyes (Psalm 3:3)—

eyes that speak-without-words of your love,

compassion, patience, and forgiveness.*

And in my heart I hear you reaffirm:

“Know this:

As you come into my presence and

allow me to lift your head (Psalm 3:3)—

To encourage, edify, and inspire your spirit,

I will bestow multiple blessings, including:

ALLEVIATION—

As I firmly support you to bear these burdens (Psalm 68:19),

ANTICIPATION—

for the intervention I can provide (Isaiah 64:4),

CONSOLATION—

to ease the distress (Matthew 11:28-29).

INSPIRATION—

to press on with confidence (Galatians 6:9),

LIBERATION—

 from crippling guilt and nagging doubts (Romans 8:1; Isaiah 41:10),

MANIFESTION—

of my comforting, empowering presence (Psalm 23:4), and

RESTORATION—

of hope to fuel your spirit and faith to carry on (Isaiah 40:31).

“Then the uplift of your spirit will become evident

In the uplift of your face (Proverbs 27:19),

as trust supersedes concern, and

expectation displaces doubt.”

I praise you, Lord—

You’ve heard my cry for mercy.

You are my strength and shield;

my heart trusts in you, and you help me (Psalm 28:6-7).

Hallelujah!

*Psalms 103 and 145 celebrate many of God’s awesome attributes.

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Perspective, Promise, and Praise

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, God's Promises, Hope, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on September 18, 2025| 47 Comments »

Since Charlie Kirk’s tragic death last week, perhaps you’ve heard people ask, “Why didn’t God stop Tyler Robinson?” Or, ”Why is so much violence occurring in our country? Why does God allow such suffering [1]?”

Perhaps you’ve been wondering yourself.

But even if we knew the answers to all of our why questions, we’d still want to ask God: Couldn’t you have accomplished your purpose some other way?

Better than seeking answers (that likely won’t satisfy), we’d settle our spirits more effectively if we sought perspective, built our hope and faith with God’s promises, and encouraged our hearts with praise.  

See Job’s example, Job 1:20

Perspective

I appreciate this wisdom from Eugene Peterson:

“We underestimate God and overestimate evil. We don’t see what God is doing and conclude he’s doing nothing . . .

“We see evil everywhere, holding countless people hostage whether as perpetrators or victims. We must remember: ‘evil is not everything and it is not everywhere’ . . . [neither is it] wild and uncontrollable. It has an origin and a finish . . .

. . . “We cannot afford to be naïve about evil—it must be faced. But we cannot be intimidated by it either. It will be used by God to bring good [2].”

Evil must be faced, he says, raising the question, how? The Bible tells us: with prayer, with goodness, and with soft (not incensed or arrogant) responses to anger [3].

Peterson also asserts God uses evil for good. What possible good could God accomplish from Charlie Kirk’s assassination?

Just since last Wednesday, there are more than one million new subscribers to Charlie’s organization, Turning Point USA, and more than 54,000 new requests for Turning Point chapters at high schools, colleges, and universities across the country.

I pray that as participants hear about Charlie’s faith, his passion for the institutions of marriage and family, as well as his irrefutable logic in support of biblical values, they too will accept Christ into their lives, to experience the God-enhanced life he offers [4].

Promise

Charles Spurgeon would have us understand:

What might those stars of promise include?

  • Psalm 9:9-10 “The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.”
  • Romans 8:31 “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
  • Romans 16:20 “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.”

We can also be encouraged by such scripture-based affirmations as:

  • “Underneath are the everlasting arms, full of sustaining comfort and strength” [5].
  • “I know nothing which can so comfort the soul, so calm the swelling billows of grief and sorrow, so speak peace to the winds of trial, as a devout musing upon the subject of the Godhead” [6].
  • “The devil may land a punch or two. He may even win a few rounds, but he never wins the fight” [7].

Praise

Even though it’s counterintuitive to praise God when we’re distressed, it’s a powerful way to lift our spirits [8].

Perhaps we could begin . . .

I praise you, Lord, for drawing especially near to those who are hurting. You DO make your presence known in palpable ways. And to sense your presence is to experience inexplicable peace and comfort. I pray this for Charlie Kirk’s family and friends.

I praise you also for your Word that ministers consolation and strength. May we all avail ourselves with renewed appetite for your truth.

Psalm 34:18; 139:7-10; John 16:33;

Lamentations 3:32-33; Psalm 119:49-50;

Proverbs 15:14

P.S. Continue your praise, guided by the free resource offered below, as part of our newsletter.

[1] Two worthwhile books that consider such questions: The Problem of Pain by C. S. Lewis and Os Guinness’ book, Last Call for Liberty.

[2] Excerpts from pp. 55-57 of Run with the Horses.

[3] Luke 6:27-28; Proverbs 15:1

[4] John 10:10

[5] Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, 145; Deuteronomy 33:27

[6] Charles Spurgeon, from a sermon, “The Immutability of God”; Isaiah 26:3

[7] Max Lucado, Grace for the Moment, 91; 1 John 3:8

[8] Isaiah 61:1-3

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Everything Serves God’s Purpose

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Will, God's Wisdom, Hope, Maturity, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , on August 7, 2025| 34 Comments »

(A personal, prayer-response:)

How I love this passage, Lord, with its comfort and reassurance!

Paul reminds me here that You, O God, are all-wise and all-knowing; You know what’s best for each of us.

You cause all things to work together for our benefit, for those who love You (Romans 8:28).

Sometimes though, I have to admit, certain events confound and frustrate me. My finite mind cannot understand what good you could possibly bring out of:

  • Severe financial setbacks for a godly family
  • A rejection letter from a mission board for an eager candidate
  • An announcement of divorce between a respected couple in the church
  • A cancer diagnosis for a young mother
  • The death of a child

But those of us who trust in You know that we can count on Your wisdom and knowledge in all things, and the absolute dependability of Your character—Your benevolent goodness, Your perfect righteousness, Your deep compassion, Your unfailing faithfulness and infinite love (to name a few)—even in the face of struggle and tragedy.

Remind me, Father, that “making room for mystery in my worldview”(1) is an important element of spiritual maturity.

And to demonstrate that mature trust, I can follow Job’s example. His first response to catastrophe was worship (Job 1:20).

And as I worship, I can praise and thank You, not only for those blessings I see but also for those I can’t.

Help me Father to rest in the knowledge that:

  • Out of Your infinite wisdom, You select the best possible conclusion of events, and You adopt the best possible means for accomplishing that conclusion (2).
  • You are the Most High God, Lord of heaven and earth. You are subject to no one and influenced by no one; neither can anyone thwart or hinder Your plans (3).
  • Even my mistakes could never obstruct Your will.
  • You, on the other hand make no mistakes. Your choices for me are always right, because they come from Your perfect mind and heart. You always know exactly what you’re doing.
  • “Everything from You and for You” (v. 36) often includes mundane tasks, tedious routine, and lack of recognition. But I can count on the fact that, “in the midst of what seems terribly ordinary, You—in your wisdom and power–are doing something extraordinary” (4).
  • Everything serves Your purpose (5). You direct everything toward the conclusion you ordained for it.

May I be joyfully submissive to Your plans for me, in light of these marvelous truths!

Notes:

  1. Sarah Young, Jesus Always, 65. 
  2. Based on a J. L. Dagg quote, www.gracequotes.com.
  3.  Based on an A. W. Pink quote, www.gracequotes.com.
  4. Alice Mathews, A Woman God Can Use, 77.
  5. A quote my dad copied into one of his Bibles, source unknown.

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Have I Got Good News for YOU!

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Salvation, Heaven, Hope, Jesus, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , on July 31, 2025| 39 Comments »

She stands before the judge, tears filling her eyes, as one misdeed after another plays out on a Jumbotron for all to see.

He waves his arm toward the mammoth screen. “The evidence is clear,” he thunders. “You’ve committed numerous indiscretions. What do you have to say for yourself?”

Her response is barely audible. “I am guilty as charged, your Honor.”

“Highly disappointing,” he asserts.  “However, my Book of Life does indicate you accepted the gift of eternal life made possible by my Son, so you will be allowed to enter heaven, but of course, your place will be far to the rear.

“You can also expect far fewer blessings in my celestial kingdom, compared to those who have lived truly saintly lives. You understand, of course.”

She nods and bows her head in shameful misery.  

Such a scene is imaginary, of course, but reflects the fear and foreboding I used to feel toward the Judgment Day to come, when it’s my turn to face the Judge of all the earth.

After all, he is holy and I am a wretched sinner—even as a Jesus-follower. And though God has provided the way for me to escape hell when I die, he’ll have every right to reprimand me, even banish me to some far corner of heaven.

Perhaps you’ve been plagued by such thoughts as well. If so, have I got good news for YOU!

First, consider this passage from a praise-psalm of King David:

A rather surprising reason to rejoice, agreed?

David goes on to explain: “He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his faithfulness” (v. 13).

Could God judge any other way? No. He is holy and perfect in all that he does and says.

That means all his righteous and faithful perfections will come into play as he fulfills this role: his compassion and grace, wisdom and discernment, goodness, patience, and more.

We can rest assured: on Judgment Day God will not divorce himself from these attributes and become a stern, vindictive, and unforgiving judge.

He is for us, not against us [1].

In addition we mustn’t forget that God is rich in mercy [2]–mercy “so great that you may sooner drain the sea of its water, or deprive the sun of its light, or make space too narrow, than diminish the great mercy of God”–Charles Spurgeon [3].

Another factor to keep in mind: the affirming promise the Apostle Paul included in his letter to the Romans. For clarity’s sake, here’s the Amplified Version:

“There is now no condemnation [no guilty verdict, no punishment] for those who are in Christ Jesus [who believe in Him as personal Lord and Savior]” [4].

Elsewhere Paul makes clear: the charge of our legal indebtedness has been cancelled.

I repeat, cancelled.

We have already been judged ‘not guilty’ in the courts of heaven.

—Sarah Young, Jesus Always, 236.

In fact, our sins are removed as far as the east is from the west [5].

So how might that opening scenario proceed differently for that Christ-following woman, standing before the Judge of all the earth?

He may open his Book of Life, find her name, and announce, “Ah! Here you are! Your debt has been fully paid by my Son.”

Then perhaps he’d lean forward on his forearms and smile warmly upon her. “Proceed through those doors to your right, my child, and enjoy forever my complete peace, joy, and blessing!”

 *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

I praise you, O God, for your gift of salvation, not granted grudgingly because you feel sorry for us wretched creatures, but because you love us. That love is manifested by your kindness and compassion in spite of our sinful tendencies.

And now we can stand in a place of confidence and peace as we anticipate our homegoing to heaven—with no fear of retribution. Thank you, Lord God, our Father!

(Romans 5:8; Psalm 103:8-14; John 5:24)

P.S. Though all those who believe in Christ will receive all the benefits of eternal life in heaven, the rewards we receive for godly behavior will differ [6].

What might those rewards include and how do we earn them? Topics for another day!

[1] Romans 8:31b

[2] Ephesians 2:4-5

[3] Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892), British preacher and author

[4] Romans 8:1 AMP

[5] Psalm 103:12

[6] John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 2:9; 3:8

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Forward Momentum

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God, Hope, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on April 10, 2025| 27 Comments »

Perhaps you’ve experienced one of these life-altering moments when:

  • A medical diagnosis immediately shifted priorities for the whole family
  • Corporate headquarters announced lay-offs; you were one of them
  • You realized Mom could no longer live alone
  • A spouse announced your marriage was no longer working for them, and they’d found someone else

The first instinct is to shut out the world, pull inward, and allow grief and self-pity full reign.

Yes, grieving is essential, but there comes a time to let go of what was and look to God for what’s next, because:

When we believe God, we move forward.

When we choose to despair, we stay in a pit.

Karol Ladd [1], Thrive, Don’t Simply Survive, 89.

But how do we activate our belief in God in order to combat despair?

Listed below are ten practices for such times. They also provide help when smaller upsets occur and in seasons of spiritual malaise.

Ten Strategies for Forward Momentum:

  • Resist looking too far down the road and becoming discouraged by the what-ifs. Focus on just today–even just the next hour [1].
  • Spend time reflecting on God’s Word and note the transformation of mind and spirit. From Psalm 119 alone we learn that scripture provides strength (v. 28), preservation of life (v. 50), comfort (v. 52), delight (v. 77), wisdom (v. 98), understanding (v. 104), guidance (v. 105), truth (v. 142), and peace (v. 165). Such entities are always beneficial, but especially in the midst of difficulty.
  • Practice gratitude to God frequently throughout the day. Gratitude expands your awareness of his goodness in spite of challenge.
  • Practice praise, for each of his attributes you see at work in your life: his attentiveness, faithfulness, wisdom, and more [2].
  • Counter the urge to look backward and dwell on the negative. Look upward with worship in order to move forward [3].
  • Affirm your confidence in God [4]. You are not alone! You have a trustworthy, all-powerful God working for you and in you. He WILL see you through and bring positive effect out of the situation.
  • Pray about the next steps God would have you take. Rest assured that “where God guides, he also provides”—Unknown [5].
  • Follow the Apostle Paul’s advice in Philippians 4:8, and fill your mind with profitable input. Read spirit-lifting material, listen to Christian music and sing along, listen to encouraging podcasts.
  • Allow others to minister hope and encouragement to you, and be an encourager yourself. That Bible-truth, “It is more blessed to give than to receive”[6] applies to encouragement too.
  • Kindness works in similar fashion. Show kindness to others and find the joy of your heart increased [7].

Feed your hope for tomorrow with scripture verses, song lyrics, and uplifting quotes. Copy them in a journal or notebook. You’ll have instant encouragement at your fingertips.

These quotes may offer a starting point:

The first step toward getting somewhere

is to decide you’re not going to stay where you are.

–John Pierpont Morgan

*    *    *

It may support your heart to consider that

in these troubles God is performing that work

in which your soul would rejoice

–if you did see the design of it.

–John Flavel, Keeping the Heart

* * *

*     *     *

[The road may be rocky] “but with God’s help

the rocks can become stepping stones.”

–Barbara Johnson

Pack Up Your Gloomies in a Great Big Box, 83

*     *     *

Difficulties are sent to make us grow.

Move from complaining to proclaiming

what God is doing through the problem.

Remind yourself, for every Calvary,

there is an Easter.

–Barbara Johnson (source unknown)

* * *

Lord God, when adversity overwhelms us, we ask that you grant:

  • Confidence in you, our wise and trustworthy Shepherd
  • Strength and courage to take the next step
  • Forward momentum, away from our fears and into the future you’ve lovingly prepared

We look forward to watching you bring miraculous good out of our trials. 

In the name of Jesus we pray, AMEN!

(Proverbs 14:16; Psalm 23:1; Isaiah 41:10, 13;

Psalm 139:16; Romans 5:3-4; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Which practices have provided forward momentum for you? Please share in the comment section below!

[1] Matthew 6:34

[2] Psalm 9:1-2

[3] Psalm 121:1-2

[4] 2 Corinthians 3:4-5

[5] Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 58:11

[6] Acts 20:35

[7] Proverbs 11:17a

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God’s Delight

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Delight, God's Love, Hope, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on February 20, 2025| 31 Comments »

(An imaginary conversation between God and me.)

GOD: Though I inspired a lyricist to write Psalm 147:11 long ago, its truth remains. I still delight in those who fear Me and put their hope in My unfailing love.

ME: What does it mean to fear you, Lord?

GOD: Let’s begin with an example from the physical realm.

Think of standing on a ridge above an ocean beach after a tropical storm. You watch in amazement as mammoth waves pound against the shore—powerful enough to slide a building off its foundation. That display manifests a modicum of My power. . .

. . . And your emotional response offers a small sample of the wonderment that can well up in your spirit when you gaze upon Me, contemplating the splendor of My attributes and the ways I manifest them.

Another example: Remember that time when an actor came to your church and portrayed Jesus, telling stories from His life? His physical appearance matched how many people imagine Christ may have looked.

As the actor entered the sanctuary from the back and slowly walked toward the platform, he fixed his gaze on one person after another, including you.

And what was your reaction? Instant awe and reverence—so strong, you had to stop yourself from bowing down at his feet as many did in Bible times.

Of course, your response was not for the actor but for the One he represented—your forgiving and self-sacrificing Savior.

This is the kind of fear the psalmist was referring to in Psalm 147:11. It is veneration that recognizes your human frailty compared to My infinite transcendency and prompts the desire to worship Me and follow My excellent ways.

ME: I do want to follow Your ways, heavenly Father, but often fail. I thank You for loving me because of who You are, not because of who I am.

And yet, understanding that certain behaviors please You does inspire me toward obedience.

That verse also says you delight in those who put their hope in Your unfailing love. What does effectual hope look like?

GOD: First, confident. It pleases Me when My children look for evidence of My attributes at work in their lives and as the evidence mounts, become more and more confident in My love.

Second, tranquil.  My gracious love for you is affirmation of My acceptance of you and pleasure in you. I don’t just put up with you, I love you. You are a unique creation I designed with care. Rest secure in such truths.

Third, diligent. Hope involves wait-time. The person who hopes in Me fills that wait-time with:

  • TRUST in Me to provide loving care even as she waits
  • GRATITUDE for what I’ve already done 
  • PRAISE for what I’ll do in the future
  • ASSURANCE of the truth of My promises
  • DRAWING NEAR to Me, availing herself of My strength, encouragement, and more

And as you put these hope-filled, life-changing actions into practice, I’m delighted.

ME: How do I accomplish that last action, Lord, drawing near to You?

GOD: Again, a visualization might help. Imagine sitting on a footstool at My feet. Look up into My face and see in My eyes the devoted love I have for you. See in my smile the delight you bring Me. Feel My warm compassion as I wrap My arm around your shoulders.*

Bask in My presence and know that I—the King of the universe—delight in spending time with you in My Word, through prayer, and just resting in companionable silence.

Know this also: I delight in those who fear Me and put their hope in My unfailing love because of the resulting, ever-growing relationship between us, and these are the ones who will experience the fullness of My joy (Psalm 16:11).

But saints are lovely in His sight,

He views His children with delight;

He sees their hope, He knows their fear,

And looks, and loves His image there.

–Unknown (Quoted by Herbert Locker in Seasons of the Lord, 246.)

* Psalm 99:5; 11:7; Ephesians 3:18-19; Psalm 149:4; 86:15.

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When Hope Resides in Our Hearts

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, God's Salvation, God's Strength, Hope, Joy, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on January 30, 2025| 35 Comments »

The Apostle Paul included a curious instruction for us in Romans 12:12:

Does it pique your curiosity too? I can see rejoicing in the hope of salvation from death, the hope of blessings yet to come, and the hope of intervention in our lives. But HOPE in and of itself?

In addition, there are occasions when our hope is desperate, accompanied by impatience, fear, and anxiety—certainly not rejoicing.

So what did Paul mean?

Later in this letter Paul gives a clue in Romans 15:13. There Paul calls God the “God of hope.”

To rejoice in the God of hope, no matter our circumstances, increases our confidence in him to bring us through what we face. Such hope is like an anchor for the soul (Hebrews 6:19), offering stability for our lives. Now that’s something to rejoice in!

I pray the following truths about God will cause more joyful hope to overflow in your heart:

We can depend on his TRUSTWORTHINESS–even in the midst of trouble (Psalm 9:9-10).

God will not permit any troubles to come upon us,

unless he has a specific plan by which great blessing

can come out of the difficulty.

–Peter Marshall

He can wield his REDEEMING POWER over any situation (Matthew 19:26).

There is no situation so chaotic that God cannot from that situation,

create something that is surpassingly good.

He did it at the creation. He did it at the cross. He is doing it today.

–Bishop Moule

In his Word we find his soul-strengthening AFFIRMATION and calming ASSURANCE (Psalm 19:7-8).

His NATURE includes numerous, magnificent attributes, which he employs on our behalf (Psalm 145).

Take note of these examples:

God possesses all strength to help us, all wisdom to guide us,

all mercy to pardon us, all grace to enrich us,

all compassion to comfort us, all goodness to supply us,

all happiness to crown us.

–Thomas Brooks, Puritan Minister

And those descriptors just touch the surface!

God’s SOVEREIGNTY over all things (Jeremiah 32:17) includes the timing of his interventions.

Hope waits because hope believes God works

all things together for our good.

–Shelly Miller(on her blog, Redemption’s Beauty, 11-2-17)

Out of his FAITHFULNESS, God bestows hope. We don’t have to search for it; we don’t have to muster it ourselves (1 Peter 1:3).

Christ proved to be the victorious OVERCOMER, no matter what the world hurled at him (John 16:33): every temptation, every discouragement, every setback, and more. And though we could never measure up to his perfections, he makes us victorious overcomers too (Romans 8:37).

Victory begins with the name of Jesus on our lips.

–Frances Frangipani

His RESTORATION upon our spirits fortifies hope (Isaiah 41:10).

[God can] avail and restore the beauty and freshness of the blighted oak.

The Divine Gardener is perfect at the task of transforming withered trees.

–Herbert Lockyer, Seasons of the Lord, 7.

God’s MINDFULNESS of us never wavers (Psalm 40:5 ESV).

His EXCELLENCIES defy our ability comprehend (Psalm 145:1-3).

God’s beauty is divine, eternal, and infinite. He is beautiful.

He always has been and eternally will be.

God’s beauty defies our ability to comprehend.

–Charles Simeon, Puritan Minister

God’s loving DETERMINATION keeps him from ever giving up on us (1 Corinthians 1:7 MSG).

If you are seeking after God, you may be sure of this:

God is seeking you much more.

He is the Love and you are His beloved.

He has promised Himself to you.

–John of the Cross, Spanish priest (1542-91)

And when we consider all these attributes of our God of hope—his . . .

Trustworthiness

Redeeming power

Affirmations and Assurances

Nature above reproach

Sovereignty

Faithfulness

Overcoming victory

Restoration

Mindfulness

Excellencies

Determination . . .

. . . we find ourselves rejoicing in confident hope because such truths have TRANSFORMED our spirits.

I pray that’s your experience today!

Art & photo credits: http://www.pexels.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.canva.com.

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Christmas Praise

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, Encouragement, Faith, God's Grace, God's Salvation, Hope, Humility, Jesus, Meditation, Peace, Praise, Salvation, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , on December 19, 2024| 38 Comments »

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for surrendering all the glorious perfections of heaven, to live among us with all our un-glorious imperfections [1].

Also astounding is your arrival as an infant, born to peasants, in a stable-cave. How ignoble for the King of kings, the Alpha and Omega who always was and always will be.

As Mary and Joseph tried to rest on scratchy straw, did they wonder, “How could this be part of your plan, Lord Jehovah? How could the Messiah fulfill his grand destiny from such lowly beginnings?”

Little did the couple know:

  • their helpless baby who could not stand “would one day walk on water” [2]
  • his little hands that could not grasp would one day break five rolls and two fish into pieces and feed five thousand people
  • their Child who could not speak would one day make the hearts of men burn within them as he spoke words of supernatural wisdom and insight
  • his flailing arms would one day spread wide on a cross, to save his people from their sins [3]

The depth of your humility and the magnitude of your sacrifice, Lord Jesus, overwhelm me.

I praise you for all the ways you demonstrated God’s character to us during your earthly ministry—his love, compassion, goodness, and more.

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for your power on display in the miracles you performed and those you continue to perform to this day, confirming who you are—not just a wise teacher or mystic but the Son of God.

I praise you for the glimpses of heaven we experience from time to time of what it will be like when all creation is “brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God,”–because of what you accomplished [4].

Such glimpses include:

  • The exquisite beauty of nature, causing us to gasp in wonder
  • The profound heart-to-heart connections we experience with other believers
  • The songs that move our spirits and cause tears of blissful joy
  • The sense of your presence—your encompassing and perfect shalom [5]

All the things that have ever deeply possessed your soul

have been but hints of [heaven]—

tantalizing glimpses, promises never quite fulfilled,

echoes that died away just as they caught your ear. . . .

–C. S. Lewis (The Problem of Pain, 150-151)

I praise you, Lord God, that before time began, you’d already established the plan for your Son’s birth, ministry, death, and resurrection [6].

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for withstanding horrific suffering in our place, paying the penalty for our sins [7].

I praise you Heavenly Father, for your power over death, proven by the resurrection of your Son. He received a grand welcome back to heaven and now sits on his throne, receiving the honor, glory, and power he deserves [8].

I praise you for the promise—repeated many times through scripture—that upon our physical deaths, those of us who believe in Christ will live forever with you, surrounded by the wonders of heaven [9].

I praise you, Lord Jesus, we’ll even sit with you on your throne [10]!

Such an honor seems downright absurd, and yet there it is—promised and guaranteed in your infallible Word—promises we can trust, a guarantee we can believe in.

I pray that many will see:

And may many embrace you, O Christ, as their Prince of Peace and King of kings, to experience your shalom and joy. May they accept your gift of gifts: eternal life!

[1] Philippians 2:5-7

[2] From Mark Lowry’s carol, “Mary Did You Know”; see also Matthew 14:22-33 for one example

[3] Matthew 14:13-33; Luke 24:13-24; Luke 23:33; Matthew 1:21

[4] Romans 8:21

[5] Shalom includes not only peace, but complete well-being and wholeness

[6] Titus 1:2

[7] Romans 5:8

[8] Revelation 3:21

[9] John 3:16

[10] Revelation 3:21

[11] From a sermon, “The Great Birthday of Our Coming Age,” December 21, 1884.

Photo credits: http://www.freebibleimages.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; canva.com.

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Dazzling Christmas Joy!

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Christmas, God's Grace, God's Salvation, Hope, Jesus, Joy, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , , , , on December 12, 2024| 46 Comments »

As his father prayed, little Isaac peeked through his fingers to see what was causing a rustling sound. His eyes spied a mouse crawling up a bell-rope, and Isaac giggled.

After family prayers, Father wanted to know what had possessed his son to be so disrespectful.

“I saw a mouse running up the bell-rope, and it came to my mind:

There was a mouse for want of stairs,

‘Ran up a rope to say his prayers.”

Father was not amused and reached for the rod. Isaac fell to his knees and begged:

“Father, Father, pity take,

And I will no more verses make [1]!”

Neither the little poet Isaac Watts (1674-1748) nor his father could have known where the boy’s penchant for rhymes would take him.

As a late teen, Isaac complained often to his father about the tiresome, chanted hymns of the church. How was a person supposed to sing them with joy as the Bible-psalms often urged, when the music droned in a minor key?

From a 1600’s hymnal

Mr. Watts finally suggested he turn complaining into composing and create better melodies and lyrics. Isaac did, and over the next fifty-plus years more than six hundred of his hymns were published.

Some people found fault with Isaac’s contemporary worship songs. But at least several prominent leaders supported him, including Samuel Johnson, Cotton Mather, and John Wesley [2].

Isaac Watts

Probably the best known of Watts’ hymns is “Joy to the World,” although Watts never set it to music. Decades later Lowell Mason felt inspired to do so and upon publication in 1848, the song soon became a beloved Christmas carol.

Some insist this hymn has no place in the carol-category, because Watts included no elements of the Christmas story in the lyrics.

But as Alyssa Poblete points out: This song celebrates what Christ came to do. And along with looking back at the grace accomplished in the past, we also look forward to the grace accomplished for our future, to the ultimate joy to be revealed [3].

That enlightenment helps explain that puzzling first line, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come” (emphasis added). I’ve often wondered why Watts didn’t choose “has come.”

Ms. Poblete gives us indication. God’s grace (explained in part by the acronym, God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense) is active in all of time—past, present, and future.

Our Messiah’s birth was long-promised for centuries. His coming ushered in a new kingdom of Light. Those who believe in Jesus gain release from the kingdom of darkness, and one day that evil kingdom will be utterly destroyed [4].

In addition:

Christ’s coming is an ever-present and ongoing engagement in the world.

–Darrow L. Miller [5]

The Lord didn’t just come. He is here! And we can sing with dazzling Christmas joy because:

  • One day the whole earth will receive her King. Therefore, let heaven and nature sing (v. 1) [6]! 
  • The Savior reigns forever and ever (v. 2) [7]
  • Sins and sorrows will be no more, when Christ returns (v. 3) [8]
  • He comes to make his blessings flow (v. 3) [9]
  • He rules the world with truth and grace (v. 4) [10]
  • The glories of his righteousness and the wonders of his love are on display everywhere (v. 4) [11]

These musicians capture well the dazzling joy of knowing our Savior reigns!

For the reasons listed above and more, Watts invites: “Let every heart prepare him room” (v. 1), and “Let men [all humanity] their songs employ” (v. 1)!

May we be just such people who sing with intention, from a place of authenticity [12].

In fact, take a moment right now if you can, and worship, celebrate, and sing with dazzling Christmas joy!

[1] Betty Dunn, https://www.powerofchange.org/blog/2011/12/16/isaac-watts-joy-to-the-world.html

[2] Erin Tabor, https://www.zmiinternational.org/daily-dose-of-encouragement/joy-to-the-world-the-lord-is-come  

[3] https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/joy-to-the-world-a classic-christmas-hymn-reconsidered/

[4] Isaiah 7:14 and 9:6; Colossians 1:14; Revelation 20:7-20.

[5] https://disciplenations.org/wp-content/uploads/202004/Music-that-Writes-Culture-Reflections-on-Joy-to-the-World.pdf

[6] Romans 8:19-23; Revelation 22:20; Psalm 96:1-4

[7] Revelation 11:15

[8] Revelation 21:4

[9] Psalm 5:12; 34:10b; 2 Peter 1:3

[10] John 1:14; Colossians 1:16-17

[11] Psalm 33:4; 145:17 31:21

[12]  https://passioncitychurch.com/article/joy-to-the-world/

Art & photo credits: http://www.justanotherclaypotblogspot.com 9/10/2008; http://www.boudewijnhuijgens.getarchive.net; http://www.jenikirbyhistory.getarchive.net; http://www.canva.com (2); youtube.com; http://www.pxhere.com and canva.com.

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IM-Possible? No, HIM-Possible!

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Salvation, God's Strength, Hope, Meditation, Peace, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on July 18, 2024| 37 Comments »

(An imaginary conversation between God and me.)

ME:

You know me, Lord. If I’m not careful my mind can slide into fear and worry, especially about the needs and struggles of loved ones. Or I can slip backward into hurts or regrets of the past. Release from such thoughts is not always easy.

But I’ve heard it said, “What is IM-possible is HIM-possible” (Unknown).

So when negativity seeks to pull me down, I want to be quick to remember who YOU are, your promises, and what you can do that make all things HIM-possible.

GOD:

Indeed, nothing is IM-possible with me (Luke 1:37).

Here are four important truths to keep in mind that make for HIM-possible-living:

I am greater than your fears.

Think on My sovereignty and might.

I am in control of all things. I have established My throne in heaven and My kingdom rules over all. Therefore, the one who fears Me need not fear anything else [1].

I am all-wise and all-powerful, always with you and ready to offer counsel.

I am your all-sufficient Father, able to provide everything and anything you’ll ever need.

ME:

I praise You, Lord, for equipping me to contend with whatever circumstances unfold. You are the Mighty Warrior who saves!

(Psalm 103:19; 1 John 4:18a; Romans 11:33; Psalm 15:3, 46:1; Ephesians 3:20; Zephaniah 3:17)

GOD:

I am greater than your troubles.

Remember My power and strength.

Out of My omnipotence, I promise to supply you with strength sufficient for the day. Each morning I provide a fresh supply of all my mercies.

No matter what the future may hold, you can keep on bearing all things through My Son, Jesus Christ, who constantly infuses you with His strength.

Every trouble produces benefit–strong, honorable character in you, and blessing for others as they see My peace and joy reflected in you.

ME:

I praise you, Lord, for being a present-and-active help in times of trouble.

(2 Chronicles 20:6; Psalm 18:32; Lamentations 3:22-23; Philippians 4:13;

Romans 8:28; James 1:2-4; Matthew 5:16; Psalm 46:1)

GOD:

I am greater than your hurts.

Remember my love and tenderness, my grace and kindness.

I provide a solid foundation on which to rest, even when wave after wave of challenge sweeps through your life [2].

I am your Great Physician. Cling to Me by immersing yourself in My Word and find the cure for your heartache.

I am patiently transfiguring all the notes of your life into the song of My Son, Jesus . . . All is grace, as your hurts and heartaches become tools in My hands, to transform you into the image of Christ [3].

ME:

I praise you, Lord, for your devoted, attentive care.

(Isaiah 66:13a; Psalm 86:15; Psalm 147:3; Psalm 119:49-50; 2 Corinthians 3:18)

GOD:

I am greater than your regrets.

Remember my compassion and forgiveness.

Dwell on regrets and you’ll stir up a whirlpool of excruciating details. It’s an easy place to drown [4].

Leave the irreparable past in My hands, and step into the irresistible future with Me [5]. You’ll find joy replacing remorse and peace replacing agitation.

When thoughts of your failures do push their way into your consciousness, allow my total forgiveness to relieve your pangs of guilt. Then offer Me praise for accepting you just as you are, thanking Me for growing you into more than you were yesterday [6].

ME:

I praise you, Lord, for your mercy to forgive and your grace that meets me where I am but does not leave me where it found me [7].

I praise you that victory over fears, troubles, hurts, and regrets is more than HIM-possible with you!

(Psalm 103:8, 13; Romans 8:37)

[1] The fear of God in the original language doesn’t mean to be afraid. It means sustaining a joyful, astonished, awe and wonder before Him—Timothy Keller.

[2] Jane Fryar, Be Blessed, 34-35.

[3] Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts, 100; Kay Arthur, His Imprint, My Expression, 180.

[4] Based on a David Powlison quote, https://www.sgclouisville.org/blog/2024/01/16/sermon-quotes-what-do-we-do-with-regret.

[5] Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, Dec. 31.

[6] Ruth Bell Graham, Blessings for a Mother’s Day, 101.

[7] Anne Lamott, GRACE Eventually.

Art & photo credits: http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.rawpixels.com.

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