Praise | From the Inside Out

Archive for the ‘Praise’ Category

Soul Touch

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Strength, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged God's attributes revealed in nature, Isaiah 55:12, Matthew 6:26, Praise for God's Creation, Psalm 19:1, Psalm 33:5, Psalm 92:4 on September 22, 2016| 13 Comments »

(a personal psalm)

Surrounded by tall, majestic trees,

I rest here on the deck with you, Father,

reveling in the quiet.

The stillness pervades my soul and I sense your peace.

Bright morning sun dapples the landscape and spangles the leaves.

Dewdrops gild the grass.

Such radiant splendor ushers your joy into my spirit, oh God.

“Light is sweet, and it pleases the eyes to see the sun”

(Ecclesiastes 11:7 NIV).

Overhead a crystalline blue sky speaks of your majesty—

its unlimited vastness, a picture of your infinity;

its constant habitation over the earth,

a reminder of your omnipresence.

The heavens do indeed declare your glory (Psalm 19:1a),

and I worship you.

Soft, refreshing breezes brush against my skin,

their arrival unannounced and unbidden.

They are invisible, yet cause leaves to dance and flowers to sway.

Such breezes bring to mind your Spirit—also invisible

yet always refreshing, guiding and encouraging me with gentle whispers

(2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Kings 19:12).

I praise you for such gracious provision in my life.

Leaves on the trees gracefully clap their hands (Isaiah 55:12),

drawing attention to their beauty.

Some of these trees are very old; roots reach deep and wide.

Their strength is a metaphor for your power:

proven over time, reliable, unchanging.

And that strength is available to me—

an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).

“Thank you” is terribly inadequate.

Two cardinals provide an antiphonal chorus;

a flicker chatters contentedly.

Other small birds tweet and cheep

in happy celebration of a splendrous morning.

I’m reminded how you care for the smallest,

most common sparrow (Matthew 6:26),

and my soul is comforted by your loving attentiveness.

Flowers still bloom in yards and planters.

How many thousands of flowers have you designed, God?

Surely one type of bloom would be sufficient for bees.

Yet you’ve created a glorious variety.

Your artistry is astounding— delicate petals and intricate shapes,

in numerous sizes from sunflower-grand to umbrellawort-small.

“I sing for joy at the work of your hands” (Psalm 92:4b NIV).

Oh, Lord, how I praise you for the many ways creation reveals your nature.

Daily you touch my soul through the beauty and majesty of your works.

The earth is teeming with evidence of your unfailing love (Psalm 33:5)!

And I stand in awe of you, the Creator of the universe, my Heavenly Father.

What attribute of God do you see revealed in nature? How does his creative work touch your spirit? Please share in the comment section below!

(Art & photo credits: Nancy Ruegg; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.flickr.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.public-domain-image.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.goodfreephotos.com.)

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Why Does God Desire Our Worship?

Posted in God's Delight, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Worship, tagged Exodus 20:3, Exodus 34:6, God's Presence on September 1, 2016| 12 Comments »

Eons ago when I was in seventh or eighth grade, Mom, Dad, and I made our way one evening to the shoe store downtown. As we trudged up the slight incline toward the entrance, I ended up walking behind them, in order to leave room on the sidewalk for pedestrians coming from the other way.

Imagine my mortification when my parents clasped hands.

“Please! Not in public!” I begged.

After all, they were old—in their mid-thirties. And at age thirteen, I was embarrassed enough to be seen in public with them. But to be in the company of parents showing affection? That was too much.

As adults we smile at the immature and almost comical responses of most young teenagers toward their parents. They like to pretend Mom and Dad don’t exist, in support of their burgeoning, highly exaggerated independence. They conveniently forget who pays the bills, helps with homework, does the chauffeuring, and provides care in countless other ways.

Some of those teens never lose that sense of highly exaggerated independence, even as they grow into adulthood. They conveniently forget who still provides care for them in countless ways: God. To ignore him as if he doesn’t exist is to behave like a middle schooler.

God deserves not only our attention but our worship. Think of it this way: If an Olympic gymnast out-performs the competition with a nearly flawless performance, she deserves applause from the crowd and that shiny gold medallion. We do not scorn the adoration and accolades she receives; she’s earned it.

Hasn’t God earned the same, only more so?

“OK,” we say. “So God deserves to be worshiped. But does he really need it? After all, he is completely sufficient within himself. Doesn’t it seem rather self-serving for God to want our worship?”

Far from.

God knows: if our worship is not centered on him, we easily fall into the worship of other things: career, material goods, leisure, adventure—any number of pursuits that can consume our attention. Not that it’s wrong to enjoy these things, but they will never provide deep down soul-satisfaction.

God made us with that deep-down place; it’s reserved for him. That’s why the first of the Ten Commandments is about worship (Exodus 20:3).

In addition:

Worship determines what we become.

“What we worship determines what we become.”

— Harvey F. Ammerman

Ammerman further explains: “If we worship material possessions, we become more materialistic. If we worship self, we become more selfish still” (1). If we worship the adrenalin rush of exciting pursuits, we’ll continually look for more exhilarating thrills.

God wants us to worship him so we’ll become more like him—gracious, good, compassionate, and kind (Exodus 34:6).

Worship communicates God’s presence to men.

“It is in the process of being worshiped

that God communicates his presence to men.”

–C. S. Lewis

Adoration, praise, and gratitude create an atmosphere in which we can meet with God almighty (Psalm 89:15-17). And such encounters always result in joy (Psalm 16:11). Sometimes that occurs in a glorious, public celebration with other worshipers; sometimes it occurs in sweet, private communion.

Worship is a necessary outlet of the spirit.

C. S. Lewis also wrote: “Enjoyment spontaneously overflows into praise.”

When we hear superbly good news, our natural inclination is to tell others about it. We’re social beings, after all. Research has suggested that when we share a positive experience with someone else, we are essentially enjoying it again as we relive the moment in the retelling and savor the experience once more (2).

It’s the way God made us – not only to expand our enjoyment with family and friends, but with him, our Heavenly Father.

We need to worship.

To know him and be known by him, to experience him is a God-given pleasure that nothing else can satisfy.

* * * * * * * * * *

Notes:

(1) from Quote, Unquote, compiled by Lloyd Cory, Victor Books, 1977.

(2) http://www.psycnet.apa.org

Photo & art credits: www.pinterest.com (5).

I’d love to hear your thoughts on worship. Please leave a comment below!

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Eternal Pleasures

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Goodness, God's Presence, God's Provision, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged God's Goodness, Praise for God's Attributes, Praise for God's blessings, Psalm 16, Psalm 16:11, Psalm 16:2, Psalm 16:3, Psalm 16:6, Psalm 16:8, Psalm 16:9 on August 22, 2016| 14 Comments »

(A personal psalm, based on Psalm 16)

Oh, God, I praise you for every blessing you bestow (v. 2).

You are the God of all Goodness, the Author of every benefit. Just recently you granted:

Timely encouragement from friends,
A memorable dinner celebrating four anniversaries—ours, along with those of our three children and spouses,
The announcement of a third grandchild, due to arrive in January.

As A. W. Tozer observed: Out of your goodness, Lord, comes your desire for my highest welfare, your wisdom to plan it, and your power to achieve it. What do I lack (Knowledge of the Holy, p. 70)?

It’s also true that anything good within me comes from you. I hate to think where I’d be today if it weren’t for your influence and direction in my life.

Oh, God, I praise you for your godly people living heroic lives (v. 3).

I take great pleasure in knowing more than several, and gain encouragement from their examples—heroes such as:

Cheri, who cares for her elderly parents,
Buck and Nikki, who faithfully minister in nursing homes,
Bill, who soldiers on with ALS–with a sense of humor, no less—after years of paralysis, and
Charity, who is battling cancer with great doses of gratitude and praise, in addition to chemo.

These dear ones and more reflect your strength, Lord, your love, joy, peace, and courage. How dare I entertain the slightest bit of self-pity or discouragement?

Oh, God, I praise you for being my grand and glorious inheritance (v. 6).

You possess all power, inhabit all corners of the universe, know all things.

You are all-wise, righteous and holy in all you do—absolutely perfect.

Everything in the universe belongs to you, the Creator of it all.

Yet you care for me. Out of your unlimited resources, you supply everything I need—and then some. Even in the small matters, you are there. You’ve provided:

A woman to guide me through a hallway-maze in a medical building,
Two sons who can trouble-shoot my computer problems (!), and
Continual reminders that your Spirit is at work, even when circumstances seem stagnant.

You are a reliable God who keeps his promises. Always.

And when I leave this earth, you have reserved for me in heaven an eternal inheritance that will never decrease, including the privilege of living with you, basking in your glory.

Such wonders overwhelm the intellect, and my heart overflows with gratitude.

Oh, God, I praise you for your reliability (v. 8).

All the attributes mentioned above (and more) you bring to bear in my life—not as an impersonal monarch overseeing the general welfare of his kingdom—but as a gracious Father, lovingly guiding my individual course.

You will never leave me alone to fend for myself.

And you will also keep me safe until all the chapters of my life have been written (Psalm 139:16).

Oh, God, I praise you with my whole being (vs. 9, 11). You fill:

My heart with the joy of your presence,
My mind with the wisdom and truth of your Word, and
My spirit with the glory of your attributes.

Oh, God, I praise you that these pleasures are available to your children for evermore.

May I keep my thoughts centered on you and on these, your precious gifts.

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

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A Crescendo of Praise

Posted in Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged Heaven, Psalm 145:2, Psalm 147:1, Revelation 15:3-4, Worship, Zephaniah 3:17 on August 15, 2016| 10 Comments »

Confession time: During my growing up years I was a bit worried that life in heaven would involve a lot of cloud-sitting and harp-playing. To be honest, it sounded a bit boring to worship through all eternity. Just how many songs could we play and sing?

However, it sure beat the alternative, so I resigned myself to a bit of boredom and told myself, Once we get there, we won’t know any better, and we’ll be perfectly content singing and strumming.

That shows you how little I understood about heavenly worship (or earthly worship either, for that matter). It will not be a passive occupation of dreary repetition!

I expect our celestial worship will be something like a Christian concert by a favorite artist when…

…our hearts pump excitedly to experience the music of an admired vocalist. We thoroughly enjoy the performance of all the old, familiar songs we’ve grown to love. We are not bored, even though we know well the lyrics and melodies. We sing along, happily remembering the good old days when the song was first introduced.

But we also delight in a new melody—something fresh and different that thrills our spirits. And the whole time, through old and new, we revel in the companionship of others who share the memories and take great pleasure in the music with us. (Joy is augmented when shared with kindred spirits.) Each song concludes with much clapping and shouting among the concert-goers.

Of course, when we get to heaven, our favorite Artist will be the King of glory himself, who will rejoice over us with his singing (Zechariah 3:17). Can you imagine it?!

It’s also likely we’ll enjoy familiar old songs we’ve heard before and grown to love. John the Revelator gives us indication.

When he was invited up to heaven, John heard the saints singing a song of Moses. Even in the first century A.D., that was an old song, celebrating the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt (Revelation 15:3-4; Psalm 111:2-4).

More than likely, we, too, will remember and sing of the great and marvelous deeds the Lord God Almighty has performed (Psalm 86:10). We’ll celebrate his glorious attributes, and revel in the blessed companionship of other believers who also love the supreme Artist, and take great joy in joining the song.

Our praise will be further enhanced with musical instruments (1). Each section of the orchestra provides symbolism of our King’s magnificence:

Horns – his splendor and majesty (just as trumpeters on earth have heralded royalty through the centuries.)
Strings – his peace and serenity
Percussion – his power and strength
Woodwinds – his love and gentle compassion

We will sing and play and perhaps even dance in a great crescendo of worship (2), celebrating God’s mighty acts of power and surpassing greatness (Psalm 150:2, 4). It will be a good and glorious time (147:1)!

Shame on me for ever thinking that worship for eternity might become boring. It’s going to be the most heart-pumping, soul-stirring, exciting concert yet (3).

However! The crescendo has already begun here on earth. Just as David urged, we can praise God every day and continue from now to eternity (Psalm 145:2).

The glorious crescendo of worship and celebration, praise and thanksgiving, joy and wonder will never end!

_________________________

Notes:

(1) Instruments are played in heaven. Revelation 5:8 and 8:6-12 give indication of harps and trumpets. Perhaps there are more which John did not see!

(2) That phrase, crescendo of worship, comes from Bible teacher and author, Warren Wiersbe, in his book, Be Exultant, p. 25

(3) In addition to glorious worship, we will be occupied by fulfilling, satisfying work, just as Adam and Eve were given responsibilities in the perfect Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:15).

(Art & photo credits: www.clipart.me; http://www.rockingodhouse.com; http://www.defininggrace.com; http://www.pinterest.com.)

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The Result of a Crazy Connection

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged Encouragement, Faith uplift, Isaiah 65:24, Psalm 30:1, Psalm 96:4, Uplifting truths, Where encouragement comes from on August 8, 2016| 11 Comments »

Second grader, Ben, trotted up to my teacher desk and enthusiastically shared his latest news:

“I bought my mom some honeysuckle room spray for her birthday, but it makes the cat sneeze.”

I know what you’re thinking: Ben’s words aren’t particularly noteworthy. You need to know how he spoke them—with a lisp. Try repeating his words, substituting th for s, and see if you don’t start to chuckle:

“I bought my mom thome honeythuckle room thpray for her birthday, but it makth the cat thneethe.”

Maybe you had to be there. But let me tell you, I deserve a medal for my self-control that morning, holding back the giggles until Ben was out of earshot. Every now and then—like the other day–I’m reminded of that incident, and I still smile.

Now don’t ask me how my brain made the following connections. The neurons were firing way too fast to trace their trajectories. (Of course, after you read the following explanation, you’ll probably say my neurons were misfiring.)

Anyway, my thoughts jumped from Ben’s report of making the cat thneethe to face-lifts*, which, in his endearing lisp would have been faith-liftths.

Ah-ha! Now I was onto something important. Faith-lifts! And I began to ponder: What are some of the most meaningful faith-lifts I’ve encountered?

God is so generous with his encouragement. We find it in scripture, other books, the lyrics of songs, a spoken word , creation, and even the recesses of our hearts as God speaks in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:12).

For example:

A Faith-Lift from Scripture

“He will be the sure foundation for your times,

a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge;

the fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure.”

–Isaiah 33:6

I praise you, God, for your rock-solid reliability. And as I reverence you through thought, word, and deed, you provide for my every need. Hallelujah!

A Faith-Lift from Reading

“Jesus offers inward quiet in spite of outward trials. Rough winds may ruffle the surface of a lake, but far down in the depths there is perfect calm” – Herbert Lockyer (Seasons of the Lord, p. 89).

Thank you, oh God, for your peace that defies explanation and dwells deep within my spirit.

A Faith-Lift from Listening

“Don’t worry that you don’t have strength before you start. God gives strength as we journey” (heard on the radio).

Help me, Father, to step out in faith because my confidence is in you.

A Faith-Lift from Song

“I see the work of Your hands.

Galaxies spin in a heavenly dance…

“I delight myself in You,

Captivated by Your beauty…

“I run into Your arms,

Unashamed because of mercy…”

–Big Daddy Weave, “Overwhelmed” (2012)

Thank you for such glorious contemplations, Lord God!

Faith-Lifts from People

I praise you, Father, for the myriad ways you minister to me through others. Sometimes what they share brings tears to my eyes as I sense your instruction and inspiration coming through their words.

Faith-Lift from Creation

Soaring mountain peaks speak of your power,

Restorative rain, of your refreshing,

The steadfastness of sunrise–your hope,

A gentle breeze–your presence,

Gleaming sunbeams–your glory, and

The teeming stars–your infinity.

“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise” (Psalm 96:4a)!

A Faith-Lift from Spirit-Impression

All was still as I sat on the deck one morning. Even the birds were quiet. But no sooner did I journal my observations, than a breeze began to stir. I sensed an impression simmering to the surface of my thinking—thoughts that seemed to come from God himself:

“When nothing seems to be happening, when prayed-for circumstances remain unchanged, remind yourself that Spirit-breezes of blessing will come when the time is right. Wait with patience and rejoice in the knowledge that I am at work. Revel in the expectancy and assurance of My arrival” (Isaiah 65:24).

* * * * * * * * * *

M-m-m. I’m thinking: such faith-lifts as listed above actually do produce face-lifts, because worry, fear, and tension are erased in the splendor of his adequacy in all things!

“I will lift you up, O Lord, for you have lifted me up.”

–Psalm 30:1 NLT

*Plastic surgery was not uncommon where we lived at the time. Perhaps the connection occurred as my thoughts jumped from student to school to community. That’s as good an explanation as any. I’m sticking to it.

(Art & photo credits: www.pets.thenext.com; http://www.faithgateway.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.wisconsintrails.com; http://www.jpl.nasa.gove; http://www.pinterest.com.)

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God of All

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

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

The Lord is:

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

In addition he:

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

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

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

My heart sings for joy, Father.

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

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

The sound of Steve puttering in the kitchen

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

And three year-old Elena* on the floor,

Writing a story about making pancakes with Mommy.

Your goodness is on display, even in small moments.

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

Expressed through a doctor who, just last Saturday,

Offered consult on a weekend,

And even checked in on Monday morning.

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

Just today a driver graciously gave me

the right-of-way on a narrow street,

Bestowing respect, favor, and a smile.

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

Over 2,300 statements of hope and encouragement–

Promises sometimes fulfilled in amazing and creative ways–

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

Realized as Steve and I moved to different communities

And embarked upon new chapters of our lives.

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

Surprisingly well-suited to the moment.

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

Your attentiveness and favor expressed through

The cheer of bird song in the morning,

The grace and friendliness of people at church,

The inspiration of your Word,

The redemption from hurtful experiences of the past,

The peace of mind and joy of the Spirit

You infuse into each day.

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

That fills me with delight.

How precious are those times when

I sense your nearness,

When praise songs and scripture

Bring tears that clear my eyes

For the sight of you in your grace

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

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

You are pure goodness,

Manifested in infinite power,

Giving the light of truth, wisdom, and discernment.

Your glorious majesty reigns supreme over all creation.

And most amazing of all:

Everything you are, you offer to your children.

You are always seeking to manifest yourself to us.

Words fail to praise you adequately.

But, oh, how I yearn to do so!

*Our granddaughter

(1) based on a Charles Spurgeon quote

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

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Every Day

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

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

read one good poem, see one exquisite picture,

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

–Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1749-1838)

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

Yes, a day without music would be dreary.

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

An exquisite picture does lift the spirit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

scooter-girl

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

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

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

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

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

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

* * * * * * * * * *

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

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

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

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

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Breathe/Live Deep!

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

(reblogged from 10-24-13)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I might say such things as:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deep living radically transforms the spirit.

Let’s breathe/live deep!

* * * * * * * * * *

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

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

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Desires Granted

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Provision, God's Strength, God's Will, God's Wisdom, Praise, Uncategorized, tagged Delighting in God, God's desires vs. our desires, God's enablement, God's Goodness, God's guidance, God's Strength, God's trustworthiness, God's Wisdom, Jeremiah 26:14, Psalm 37:3-5, Trust in God on May 9, 2016| 6 Comments »

(a personalized psalm)

“Trust in the Lord and do good;

dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.

–Psalm 37:3 NIV

I praise you, oh God, that you are trustworthy. Your motives are always pure, your guidance always wise, your actions always righteous. Everything you do in my life is for my good.

Now, Father, I want to do good for you. May I dedicate myself each day to fulfill the to-do list you’ve designed. Remind me that interruptions may be divine appointments, ordained by you to accomplish a specific purpose.

I praise you that I can “dwell in the land and live securely” (v. 3, HCSB). How comforting to know my dwelling place is in you (John 15:5), where I find:

Refuge (Psalm 46:1)
Good things (Psalm 65:4)
Rest (Psalm 91:1)
Enjoyment of all your glorious attributes (Ephesians 3:17-19)

Delight yourself in the Lord

And he will give you the desires of your heart.

–Psalm 37:4 NIV

At first glance it would appear this verse teaches that as long as I’m worshiping you, you’ll grant what I want. But that would discount your wisdom, compelling you to do only what’s good for me.

No, undergirding this verse is an important truth: the more I delight in you, the more I’ll want what you want. Your desires become my desires, as I’m influenced by your infinite wisdom.

I praise you, Father, that steadily over time you have molded my spirit to be more accepting of your delights. Jeremiah’s words are more readily becoming my prayer: “As for me, I am in your hands, do with me whatever you think is good and right” (26:14*).

I praise you, too, that when a particular delight of my heart does not come to pass, you ultimately cause it to melt away!

Commit your way to the Lord;

Trust in him and he will do this.”

Psalm 37:5 NIV

I praise you, oh God, that you provide guidance in what I should do, wisdom for how to accomplish that plan, and strength to see it to completion. I can depend upon your enablement for success in the endeavors you have ordained.

How comforting to know:

This is your world (Psalm 24:1). That includes the little corner where I live and work and love. I can relax, knowing that Someone much wiser and stronger is in charge.

You’ve already planned out the events of my life in advance (Psalm 139:16). You don’t make decisions as you go along, nor do you leave everything to chance.

Your plan is good (Jeremiah 29:11). No matter what happens, good will come out of it.

With your goodness that desires my highest welfare, your wisdom to plan it, and your power to achieve, I. Lack. No. Good. Thing!**

All praise to you, my loving Heavenly Father!

___________________________________________

* These words of Jeremiah were not a prayer to God, but a response to the officials of Judah who wanted the prophet sentenced to death. However, when addressed to God, they do communicate heartfelt trust and submission to Him.

** Based on a quote from A. W. Tozer: “With the goodness of God to desire our highest welfare, the wisdom of God to plan it, and the power of God to achieve it, what do we lack?”

(Art credit: www.pinterest.com; http://www.holy-bible.org; http://www.indulgy.com.)

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One Thing Only

Posted in Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged impact of worship, Personal worship, William Temple, Worship, Worship is multi-faceted on May 2, 2016| 12 Comments »

“This world can be saved from political chaos and collapse

by one thing only, and that is _______________.”

How would you fill in the blank?

A. Wise leadership?

B. Liberal generosity?

C. Open-hearted worship?

D. Unconditional love?

Before we consider the answer, let me introduce the author of that quote, William Temple, who served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1942-1944.

You may remember those were three of the six years when Great Britain and her allies fought against the Nazis. In fact, when Bishop Temple took office, England faced the real possibility of a German invasion.

Temple did not cloister himself within the church walls. He worked to aid Jewish refugees from Nazi Germany, supported a negotiated peace (instead of the unconditional surrender that Allied leaders desired), and traveled frequently throughout England, encouraging British citizens to take courage in their fight against evil and hold onto hope in God.

It was part of a radio broadcast during those grim days of German air attacks that Bishop Temple spoke about “one thing only.” His last word of that statement was Answer C, worship.

Now how did he expect a bit of hymn singing, scripture reading, and a sermon in church to make a difference?

He didn’t. Bishop Temple was referring more to personal worship than public.

His own definition of worship clarifies what he had in mind:

Imagine a world where each person worshiped God by:

Submitting his conscience to God as David did, when he asked for a pure heart and steadfast spirit (Psalm 104:10).
Seeking to fill his mind with the truth of God’s Word, recognizing that all his commands are trustworthy (Psalm 119:86a).
Replacing negative, impure, unkind, and prejudiced thoughts with whatever is true, noble, pure, and admirable (Philippians 4:8).
Availing himself of God’s love and then imitating him—his mercy to forgive, his grace to provide, his benevolence to bless (Ephesians 5:1).
Putting aside selfish desires and focusing effort on what God would have him achieve (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Surely there would be less animosity and power-grabbing in our world.

But I can’t point fingers at others when the truth is, I have yet to experience the fullness of what Bishop Temple asserted. An honest inventory of my life includes:

A heart not consistently pure, and a spirit not always steadfast.
Faith that sometimes falters in God’s trustworthy commands.
Thoughts that can grovel in the negative.
Choices and actions that do not always reflect God’s love.
Selfishness that still rears its ugly head.

On the other hand, guilt is not what God intended as the motivation for worship.

No, he designed it to be a delight, not a duty. He wants to expand our joy (Psalm 16:11), provide rest and refuge (Psalm 91:1-2), bestow his strength (Psalm 138:2-3), and more–through the acts of worship. We short-change ourselves by neglecting its pleasure each day.

Perhaps there’s a reciprocal relationship among all these processes. As we worship God with our adoration and appreciation, praise and prayer, might those other aspects of worship highlighted by Bishop Temple–submission, faith, a renewed mind, love-in-action, and selflessness–be the result?

Might there be an upward spiral effect because, the more a person worships, the more she’ll be transformed? And the more she’s transformed, the purer and more passionate her worship will become?

The influence of such a person—even against political chaos and collapse—knows no bounds, as God magnifies the impact.

One thing only is necessary: worship—with all its many facets.

God will do the rest.

(Art & photo credits: www.wikipedia.org; http://www.twitter.com; http://www.piqsels.com; http://www.pixfuel.com.)

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Nancy Ruegg

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