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Archive for the ‘Joy’ Category

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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January Joy . . . and Beyond

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, Jesus, Joy, Obedience, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on January 2, 2025| 45 Comments »

Joy is a word seen frequently during the Christmas season–on cards, ornaments and even fence gates.

But holiday-pleasure based on Santa, gifting, and parties, quickly disappears with the decorations and Christmas cookies.

Where do we find January-Joy that will carry us through the new year and even beyond?

First, we have to understand: true joy is more than feel-good endorphins.

To some that sounds ridiculous. Acquiescence sounds like distasteful servitude. And what possible delight can a person find in Someone we can’t see or hear?

Little do they know the depth of joy Jesus offers us (John 15:11).

We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex

and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child

who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot

imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea.

—C. S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory

Little do many people understand:

This deep sea of joy is made available to us as we obey God–another reality that makes some bristle. They don’t realize when Christ tells us to follow God’s ways, he’s not trying to make our lives miserable. He’s showing us the way to enjoy abundance of life (John 15:9-11; John 10:10)!

Anything God commands of us is so that our joy may be full.

—Beth Moore, quoted in Values for Life

Scripture presents a number of principles that contribute to our fullness of joy, including:

POSITIVITY (Philippians 4:4)

GRATITUDE (Psalm 126:3)

 It’s not happiness that makes us grateful,

it’s gratefulness that makes us happy.

–Brother David Steindl-Rast

We just have to turn up our joy detectors,

notice, and give credit to the God who provided them.

—Deana Chadwell, When I’m in His Presence

MINDFULNESS (Psalm 89:15-16)

(How else might we make space for joy? That’s a question worth contemplating!)

GENEROSITY OF JOY (Acts 20:35)

In spreading my joy, God restored ME. MY JOY WAS FULL! . . .

As we pour out ourselves for others, we ourselves are renewed.

—Barbara Johnson, Pack Up Your Gloomies in a Great Big Box

Also worth remembering:

Empathy (Romans 12:15a)

Joy happens as we enter into the joys of others. The meek get

the most value out of others because they enter in the joys

of others. Not being envious, they rejoice in the successes of

others. Thus they live expansively, multiplying their own lives

in the careers around them.

—Ralph W. Sockman, The Higher Happiness

And what happens to those who focus on all things beautiful, good, and true—no matter how small—and thank God for them?

What happens to those who discover the joys of the here and now—no matter their circumstances–and praise God for them?

“They are the change agents who bring fullest Light [and JOY] to all the world.”*

JOY to the world! For January–beyond.

Now there’s an objective to embrace for 2025.

* Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts, 58.

Art & photo credits: http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.freerangestock.com; http://www.negativespace.co; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.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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Jump for Joy!

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Protection, God's Provision, Joy, Praise, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , on November 14, 2024| 29 Comments »

The heading promised: “Expert Tips for Creating a Gratitude List.”

But nowhere did the writer suggest who we’re supposed to thank. And that omission raises an important question: Can gratitude provide any value if there’s no one to receive it?

On the other hand, giving thanks and praise to God lifts our spirits as we review his unfailing love for us, expressed in countless ways.

Imagine King David’s euphoria as he wrote:

In Psalm 31, David included these five inspiring truths: our God is faithful (5), loving (7, 16, 21), good (19), merciful (22) and protective (23).

And as I considered theses scriptures, my thoughts turned to examples in our family’s lives when we’ve seen these attributes in action. For example:

God is faithful (Psalm 31:5) and shows us the wonders of his love (21).

Our son Eric needed slides of his paintings for a college application. However, several days of overcast skies made it impossible to sufficiently light his work and show it to best advantage. 

The deadline was fast approaching, and four paintings still hadn’t been photographed.

Eric decided he’d have do his best with the light available. But as he finished setting up and adjusting the painting on his easel, the sun came out! Three more times, just as he finished positioning, the clouds parted and the sun shone!

God stores up abundant good things for those who honor and trust him (Psalm 31:19).

Our family has experienced an abundance of good things—sometimes in miraculous ways (like provision for employment through an astonishing string of God-incidences [1]), and sometimes in smaller-but-no-less-startling events, like the one described above.

I’ve recorded hundreds of such moments in a notebook-journal kept since 1983 (as many of you regular readers know). Entry after entry proves our God is abundantly good and ever faithful [2].

We need not fear that we shall ever

come to the end of God’s goodness,

or any experience for which

He will have no blessing ready.

–J. R. Miller [3]

God hears my cries for mercy when I call to him for help, and he protects the faithful (Psalm 31:22, 23).

Years ago before GPS, I became hopelessly lost on a lonely, tree-lined road. To make matters worse, the gas tank was approaching empty, and I was going to be late for an appointment.

In near-panic mode I prayed, LORD HELP ME!, and tried to calm my racing heart by affirming that God would not fail me nor abandon me (Hebrews 13:5b NLT).

Suddenly a three-way stop appeared. I looked left to see a gas station about fifty yards down the road, almost hidden by the trees.

I turned the corner—into the 1950s. The style of the building and peeling paint indicated the age of the station; the pumps were just as old.

More alarm ensued as I studied one of the ancient pumps. What do I do with THIS?

And then an older gentleman approached (an angel, perhaps?) and kindly offered, “I’ll pump that for you.” He also directed me where I needed to be, and I arrived at my appointment just a few minutes late.

I could share SO many more examples. But it’s not just our family that’s experienced God’s goodness, faithfulness and love. All of us have stories to tell of God working wonders in our lives.

May we be quick to give him the thanks he deserves, and with King David, experience the euphoria of gratitude and praise that makes us leap for joy!

Now it’s your turn. In the comment section below, please share one of your stories that makes you leap for joy in what God accomplished!

[1] See https://nancyaruegg.com/2020/08/27/after-the-fact-2

[2] See https://nancyaruegg.com/2012/11/12/proving-gods-presence for how this journal came to be.

[3] Quoted by Herbert Lockyer, Seasons of the Lord, 199.

Art & photo credits: http://www.flicr.com (Evelyn Lim); http://www.biblepics.co; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.freerangestock.com (Paul Morris); http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.flickr.com (Bill Badzo); http://www.canva.com.

TAKE NOTE! A monthly newsletter launched in September that includes additional features to what you’ll find here on the blog. Please sign up below and check out the second installment. Thank you!

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Grow That Glow!

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, Joy, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on November 7, 2024| 32 Comments »

Surely you’ve met them—those glowing saints whose eyes always twinkle, smiles always dazzle, and whose faith and attitude always inspire.  We’re left wondering, how did they grow that glow?

No doubt it begins with strong trust in Christ, cultivated by scripture-study and prayer. They apply what they’ve learned about:

  • Giving all their concerns to God, knowing he truly cares
  • Focusing on the positive, the joyful, the beautiful
  • The pleasure of giving such gifts as time, encouragement, and a listening ear
  • Practicing God’s presence to experience his peace, strength, and more [1]

But researcher Michael Zigarelli discovered another reason why godly saints radiate joy: gratitude. He found that expressing continual gratitude to God actually energizes the practice of other spiritual disciplines, and altogether they contribute to growing that saintly glow [2].

Insightful author, Ann Voskamp concurs:

“The brave who focus on all things good and all things beautiful and all things true, even in the small, who give thanks for it and discover joy even in the here and now, they are the change agents who bring fullest Light to all the world” [3].

In addition, author and theologian Warren Wiersbe would have us know:

“That’s all fine and good,” someone might say. “But right now I see very little to be thankful for. We’ve had one financial setback after another, my job is more stressful than ever, our son is having a hard time in school, and my brother and sister-in-law just announced they’re separating. ‘See what I mean?”

Yes, we do. Some seasons of life include multiple troubles all at once.

But take note of this good news: simply expressing thankfulness (even if we don’t feel grateful) has been proven to create positive change in our brain chemistry [4].

And we find: continual gratitude contributes to a sense of WELL-BEING.

Another surprise?

Continual gratitude provides HEALING for the wounds of distress [5] —especially appreciation for who our Savior God is and what he has done.

Think of it: He created all things! He sustains all things! He has supremacy over all things! He is our Emmanuel (God with us), our Good Shepherd, our Wonderful Counselor, and so much more [6]!

God hears us as we pray, loves us with an everlasting love, empowers us through the Holy Spirit, fills us with hope, and anchors us through the storms of life [7]. 

And as we cultivate continual gratitude for such realities, we find PEACE.

The truly thankful person

is a truly peaceful person.

—Lysa TerKeurst [8].

It makes sense. The more we thank God for all the benefits he bestows, the firmer our faith-stance in his competence to sustain us.

Third, continual gratitude cultivates JOY.

Turn [your] eyes toward Jesus and everything shines—

even the tough spots morph into excitement. . .

How is he going to solve my problem this time? . . .

When I am consciously aware of him,

life fills with wonder and wonder brings joy [9].

What better way to remain aware of God and expand joy-inducing wonder than with gratitude?

Last, continual gratitude “lays out planks of TRUST” [10].

Think of all the moments he’s been faithful, when:

  • an impossible situation worked out amazingly well
  • a potentially difficult conversation turned out to be restorative and beneficial
  • an inspired idea came to mind that cleverly solved a problem
  • a surprising bargain materialized, supplying a current need
  • a string of just-so-happened circumstances provided the answer to a prayer

Yes, some will call these coincidences. Around here we call them God-incidences, because “whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father” [11].

And every time we acknowledge such gifts of provision, protection, and guidance, we lay another plank of trust, constructing a strong bridge of faith from yesterday into tomorrow [12].

Now we know. Each of us can grow a glow as we embrace the power of gratitude.

And isn’t November—with Thanksgiving just a few weeks away—the perfect month to grow that glow a little bit brighter?

[1] 1 Peter 5:7; Philippians 4:8; Acts 20:35; Isaiah 26:3 NLT

[2] https://godsmissionarychurch.org/2018/10/26/growing-through-thankfulness/

[3] One Thousand Gifts, 58.

[4] https://www.focustsoul.com/blog/signs-of-maturity-in-christ-part-1-gratitude-and-joy

[5] https://cct.biola.edu/spirituality-suffering-gratitude/, emphasis added

[6] Colossians 1:15-20; Matthew 1:23; John 10:14; Isaiah 9:6

[7]  1 Peter 3:12; Jeremiah 31:3; 2 Timothy 1:7; Romans 15:13; Hebrews 6:19

[8] Embraced, 256.

[9] Deanna Chadwell, Soul Bare, 82-84.

[10] Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts, 151.

[11] James 1:17 NLT

[12] Voskamp, 152.

Art & photo credits: http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.shutterstock.com.

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Hidden Treasures

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, Joy, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on September 5, 2024| 50 Comments »

Doesn’t the above statement make you want to search for those threads, to find the gleaming treasures he’s hidden among the ordinary moments of our days? Keeping a gratitude journal helps.

Just for fun I reviewed entries in my journal from the last three months. What follows is a short-list of treasures, found here and there through the summer of 2024.

1. On the internet: an APP called Merlin that will listen to the birds singing nearby and identify them by their calls. Such fun to hear an Eastern bluebird, for example, in the trees behind our house, and then spot his bright blue and peach feathers glowing in the late afternoon sun.

    2. In our home: celebration of long-term friendships as we enjoyed two sets of houseguests—couples we’ve known for decades. Such joy percolates from the reminiscing, catching up, and laughter!

    3. At a coffee shop: New friendship, as a young woman from church and I share our stories, encouragement, and prayer.

    4. Next door: While I completed yard work one day (not one of my favorite things to do!), a large cluster of black-eyed Susans in our neighbors’ yard suddenly caught my eye and provided such a lovely sight. I found myself smiling.

    5. From the rag bin: a new game created by our middle granddaughter–Island Tag. She and her little sister spread out numerous rags on the floor, and then we jump from one island to the next to chase or escape each other, providing MUCH laughter (and a good work-out for Nana)!

    6. At DSW: Comfy sneakers I can even throw in the wash.

    7. In a department store: A $150.00 raincoat for $38.73!

    8. At a nearby garden center: fresh produce (delivered there each day, starting sometime in July)—sweet corn, tomatoes, squash, peaches, and more. Superbly delicious.

    9. In an out-of-the-way place: a giant Thomas Dambo wood-sculpture called The Bird King (complete with a crown made of birdhouses), tucked among the trees on Vashon Island, Washington State.

    Our daughter and family took us to visit him. Check Dambo’s website to see if there’s a sculpture near you. He and local volunteers have built them nearly world-wide.

    10. In the Hoh Rainforest, also in Washington State: awe-inspiring sights around each bend of the path.

    Do you suppose a Hobbit lives here?

    11. At church, a Spirit-inspired truth from Romans 8:37, which says: “We are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Our pastor made the point, we may have hardship, but with Jesus the hardships don’t have us.

    12. During devo-time, encouragement to lift my spirit: “Though our prayers seem feeble and sometimes appear to have gone unheard, a word has gone forth. Spiritual agents from the throne room of the King of kings are mobilized against spiritual forces from the headquarters of evil, and there will be ultimate victory.”

      I wonder, dear readers, what hidden treasures did you find over the summer? Please share an example or two in the comment section below!

      And remember, “If you remember the dignity of the Giver, no gift will seem small or mean, for nothing can be valueless that is given by the Most High God” [3].

       

      [1] Opening quote from Hard Places in the Way of Faith, quoted by L. B. Cowman in Streams in the Desert, 322.

      [2] Elisabeth Elliot, A Lamp unto My Feet, 149.

      [3] Thomas a Kempis

      http://www.flickr.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.flickr.com (Jodi Grundig); http://www.pxhere.com; Steve Ruegg; Nancy Ruegg (3); http://www.freerangestock.

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      Rejoice!

      Posted in Blessings, Joy, Uncategorized, tagged , on July 11, 2024| 17 Comments »

      We’re about to follow Einstein’s advice and enjoy the beautiful land of life with beloved family members. We are indeed rejoicing–big time–whenever these opportunities arise.

      I’ll be back next week with a new post!

      Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com.

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      As God Makes a Morning

      Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Strength, God's Wisdom, Hope, Joy, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on June 6, 2024| 39 Comments »

      For me, the best way to begin a day is to head outdoors with a journal, pen, and mug of coffee, to watch God make a morning—especially this time of year with its temperate breezes, lush foliage, and dazzling flowers—all enjoyed to the accompaniment of birdsong.

      And while soaking in the glory of late springtime, I reaffirm: nature illuminates many glorious truths about our Heavenly Father.

      The following impressions come from my journals, as I’ve tried to listen to God while observing various features in my little corner of creation:

      LIGHT

      Let the golden light of morning remind you of My presence surrounding you, the Light of My Word to counsel, the Light of My joy to give delight, and the Light of My hope to dispel discouragement (1).

      SKY

      See the cloudless sky soaring into infinity?  My love for you is as high as the heavens.  And just as the sky is always over you wherever you go, I am always, tenderly watching over you (2).

      FOLIAGE

      Look closely at the bushes and trees. Note how their thickly-leafed branches create a cathedral of calm amidst urban-frenzy. Within the cool environs, numerous birds and animals find peace and protection.

      You can find absolute rest and refuge in Me. Not that trials do not come. But they “cannot penetrate the sanctuary of your soul” when you dwell in My shelter (3).

      TREES

      As the sun rises, your eyes are drawn to the back-lit leaves of the trees, transformed into glowing, emerald-like jewels. But the trees themselves live unaware of their luminous splendor.

      I’ve created My children to also glow with the Light of My Son . Often they’re unaware of the Sonlight radiating through them, but know this: there are those who see and find themselves drawn to My Light as a result (4).

      (Please forgive the mixed metaphor—this quote was too good to pass up!)

      BIRDS

      Let the variety of birds remind you that I value uniqueness. Celebrate who I’ve made you to be: the colors of your personality, the pattern of your life, the song of gifts and talents I’ve given you to share with the world, the habits of goodness I’ve formed in you to impact others.

      Join the birds in singing My praise, and keep your heart filled with joy (5).

      FLOWERS

      Sunbeams now illuminate each flower, so they glow with vibrancy of color. Let the various hues, shapes, and scents remind you of My creativity and care producing beauty in your life—beauty of character.

      Like the flowers that keep their faces toward the sun, you also keep yours toward the Son throughout the day (6).

      SQUIRRELS

      Here come the squirrels, jumping from limb to limb with confidence. You too can live in confidence, because I’ve equipped you to accomplish what I desire for you.

      Even when the squirrels walk upside down on a branch, they do not fall. Similarly, I make firm your steps and keep you from falling.

      When it’s time to rest, a squirrel can nap on the end of a branch and never concern himself that he might fall or the branch might break—an example of perfect trust. I am your unfailing security; you can trust Me implicitly (7).

      Do you see? Right here in your backyard you can: find examples of My wonders, experience Me in the sanctuary of My creation, and behold My power and glory (8).

      Let the tranquility and delight of these moments carry you through this day with peace and joy!

      Notes

      1.Psalm 119:105, 130; 16:11; 62:5-8

      2. Psalm 103:11; 121:8; 1 John 4:18

      3. Psalm 4:8; 5:11b; 91:1-4, quoted clause from Hannah Whitehall Smith

      4. Psalm 34:5

      5. Isaiah 43:7; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 2:11-14; Psalm 148:8-13

      6. Isaiah 26:3; Hebrews 12:2a; Romans 8:5-6

      7. Ephesians 4:12; Hebrews 13:20-21; Psalm 37:24; Jude 1:24

      8. Psalm 31:21a; 104:24, 33-34; 63:2

      Art & photo credits: http://www.pxhere.com; Nancy Ruegg (2); http://www.wikimedia.com (Toby Webster); http://www.pexels.com (Patricia Luquet); http://www.canva.com.

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      Blessed Happiness

      Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Intimacy with God, Jesus, Joy, Meditation, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on May 30, 2024| 36 Comments »

      Sunday evening at our son’s house we reveled in a rare musical experience—a private mini-concert by a gifted violinist, Jenny Armor. She happens to be the daughter of friends, and they’d joined us for dinner.

      Not only is Jenny able to play ultra-challenging music with superb technique, she plays from her heart. This week Jenny graduates from a music conservatory in Canada; in the fall she’ll begin a two-year master’s program in Europe.

      Here’s a link to a video of Jenny playing a Schoenfeld trio for clarinet, violin, and piano, recorded two years ago.

      You can imagine what two more years of training and practice have achieved. But one thing has been apparent since Jenny was very young: making beautiful music brings her blessed happiness.

      Of course, Jenny’s violin experience didn’t begin with the works of Schoenfeld, Brahms, or Tchaikovsky. Most likely it was “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” But as she’s grown in knowledge and then put that knowledge into practice (lots of practice!), the pleasure Jenny derives from playing has only expanded.

      The same could be said for many endeavors. The journey to become an expert in any field is to increase the pleasure of that activity along the way.

      Even in the spiritual realm, a close parallel can be drawn:

      To advance in the knowledge of Christ is to increase in happiness.

      Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning

      Someone might ask, “How can just knowing the stories of Jesus increase my happiness?”

      First, familiarity with the biblical accounts can provide pleasure. Who doesn’t enjoy a good story?  But the delight expands as we identify Christ’s attributes-in-action and then realize they also impact us. 

      Those attributes would include:

      • Compassion—upon those who came to hear him teach and those who approached him for healing (Matthew 14:14; Mark1:40-41, et al.)
      • Mercy and grace to forgive sins (Matthew 9:2; Mark 2:5, et al.)
      • Respect and kindness for all people, including hated Samaritans (John 4), Roman occupiers (Luke 7:1-10), and disregarded pagans (Matthew 15:21-24)
      • Selflessness, ultimately expressed as he endured crucifixion (Matthew 20:26-28)

      And as we develop awareness, we see more and more evidence of such attributes at work in and around us. Think of it: The King of the universe is participating in our lives (Revelation 17:14; Philippians 2:13)! And growing appreciation leads to greater joy.

      The next question becomes, how might we see more evidence of his presence, in order to experience fresh delights? One way is meditation.

      For want of [meditation],

      much communion is lost and much happiness is missed.

      Charles Spurgeon, Morning and Evening

      Meditation on Christ is what turns knowledge about him into an intimate relationship with him. It begins with slow, prayerful reading of New Testament verses or passages. Questions such as these can guide our thinking:

      • What does this text reveal about my relationship with Christ?
      • What am I learning about God the Son in this passage, about his character and/or activity?
      • What encouragement or instruction would he have me internalize and apply to my life?
      • What insights might I make a matter of prayer?

      And if we record responses in a notebook or journal, we’ll deepen our reflection and receive even greater benefit, because oftentimes to write is to discover.

      We can conclude our meditations with praise, for who our Savior is, what he has done, and the understandings brought to light by the Spirit. This prayer might also be written, to augment its imprint on our hearts.

      And then, with Puritan minister and author John Flavel, we’ll be able to affirm:

      Just as our young friend Jenny surely experiences happy blessedness as she pursues her violin studies, how much more will we experience fresh delight and happy blessedness in Jesus as we study him.

      Art & photo credits: http://www.flickr.com; http://www.freerangestock.com; http://www.canva.com

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      GRACE of Place, Place of GRACE

      Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Presence, Joy, Meditation, Peace, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on May 2, 2024| 45 Comments »

      Have you seen those grace-filled fingerprints? Perhaps at home in the joy of good-natured laughter around the family table, or one child helping another with his homework—unprompted, or unified celebration of all—for the success of one.

      Perhaps you’ve seen God’s fingerprints outdoors in a landscape of incredible beauty and grandeur, or an up-close encounter with one of God’s creatures, or the expanse of a sunrise, sunset, or brilliant rainbow.

      And especially at church, we see God’s fingerprints when an impassioned congregation sings their praise to him, a saint of God offers a heart-touching prayer, someone shares a personal story of divine, miraculous provision, or a scripture-reading fits perfectly our current circumstances.

      No doubt, God’s grace is on display everywhere and always. It never wanes; it’s new every morning. And, as illustrated above, when we intentionally look, we see his fingerprints in the GRACE of place.

      But God’s grace is not only evident around us. God has provided a place of GRACE within us as well.

      “This grace of God is a very great, strong, mighty, and active thing.

      It does not lie asleep in the soul.

      Grace hears, leads, drives, draws, changes, works all in man,

      and lets itself be distinctly felt and experienced.

      It is hidden, but its works are evident.

      –Martin Luther

      That middle line especially deserves deep and slow consideration. Luther would surely have us understand:

      • Our God of grace hears—even before we speak (Isaiah 55:24).
      • Our God of grace leads—along the best and straightest path to himself (Psalm 16:11a) [1].
      • Our God of grace drives (propels)—gently but persistently—so we’re resilient, not fragile; strong, not weak; useful, not ineffectual (Ephesians 3:20).
      • Our God of grace lovingly and relentlessly draws us unto himself (Jeremiah 31:3).
      • Our God of grace changes us, progressively transforming us into his likeness with ever-increasing glory (2 Corinthians 3:18).
      • Our God of grace works in us so he can work through us—all to his and our mutual delight (Philippians 2:13).

      He is a passionately dedicated, perfectly-intentioned, and supremely benevolent Heavenly Father!

      Yet there is more. 

      Our God enriches, enlightens, enables, and enraptures by:

      • blessing us—not with everything that pleases us—but with everything good for us [2]
      • bestowing the privilege of his presence—“so wonderful, quieting, soothing, calming, and warming” [3]
      • guiding us with supernatural wisdom as we avail ourselves with childlike trust
      • shaping our lives into what is useful and beautiful [4]
      • providing a haven within of comfort (Psalm 34:18) and strength (Psalm 59:16), refreshment (Acts 3:19) and joy (Psalm 4:7)

      All good things are a result of God’s grace (Psalm 84:11)—in the GRACE of place all around us and in the place of GRACE within.

      Where are you seeing God’s grace-filled fingerprints this day? Tell us about it in the comment section below!

      [1] Dietrich Bonhoeffer

      [2] King David mentions at least ten gifts in Psalm 103 alone.

      [3] J. Danson Smith, quoted in Streams in the Desert, Jim Reimann, ed., 340.

      [4] Eugene Peterson, Run with the Horses, 79.

      Art & photo credits: http://www.openclipart.org & canva.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.creazilla.com (painting by Pieter Claesz).

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