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A Personal Chapel

Posted in Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Refuge, Intimacy with God, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on March 20, 2025| 34 Comments »

“It isn’t necessary that we stay in church in order to remain in God’s presence,” wrote Brother Lawrence. “We can make our hearts personal chapels where we can enter anytime to talk to God privately” [1].

Isn’t that a glorious realization?

After all, “God could have . . . made his sanctuary in the farthest galaxies, in the majestic mountains, in the deep oceans, or in the vast Grand Canyon. But he chose to live in you and me” [2].

Being a visual learner causes me to wonder, What might an imaginary, personal chapel look like?

I see intricately-carved marble bathed in golden light, stained glass windows creating rainbows on the walls, and a soaring ceiling that fosters awe and wonder.

I also see a long, winding staircase within the castle of my heart. It leads upward to this turret-chapel, far away from the concerns and distractions of the day.

Along that staircase, images line the walls—reminders of God’s attentive care through the years. By the time I reach the chapel-door, my spirit is filled with gratitude and praise.

But the door is closed.

And the only action that will open it is repentance.

Sin is no small matter; it is cosmic treason—it is overthrowing the rule of the One to whom I owe everything [3].

But what do I say? King David’s prayer of repentance (Psalm 51) gives me words:

Lord God, I feel dirty with self-centeredness and pride as I approach your presence. I ask you to wash me, cleanse me, and purge me. Blot out my iniquities, I pray.

I praise you for your mercy and steadfast love that prompt you to abound with forgiveness. “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Amen.” [4].

And the door swings open.

There my Heavenly Father sits in an ornate chair, befitting the Almighty King. He beckons me to join him and perch on his footstool [5].

“I’m so glad you’ve come . Just sit and rest awhile. Allow my calming presence to envelop you.” And his arm gently rests on my shoulders.

“Now, what brings you here today?” he asks, while leaning back comfortably in his chair.

“Feelings of frustration,” I blurt. “Circumstances are not unfolding as I expected.”

“I know Child. Remember, I am over all and through all and in all [6]—even in these circumstances. Refresh your spirit with such affirmations of trust as:

“I also feel overwhelmed, Lord. The to-do list is long and time is short.” I turn my body to face him more squarely.  “Please help me prioritize and use my time wisely.”

“Of course!” he responds, with a pat on my back. “When you need wisdom, just ask. I am always ready to oblige” [7].

“Thank you, Father, for your reassurance to see me through [8]!

“And then, one more thing. I ask that you help me honor you in the tasks and encounters of this day.”

He smiles. “Now that is the kind of prayer I love to answer. Never forget that I am always with you; I am your reliable and perfect helper” [9].

I bask in his presence as God provides encouragement from his Word. The golden light that emanates from his presence, permeates my being [10].

I receive the inflowing of the Holy Spirit; he strengthens my will, thinking, and perceptions [11]. He grants me shalom—wholeness, contentment, and peace.

Now I’m ready to face the day, but very glad that anytime I can swoop up that staircase to my personal chapel and be ministered to by the Lord himself.

Praise God for his open invitation to come and his gracious benefits when we do!

 

[1] The Practice of the Presence of God, “Fourth Letter,” edited by Whitaker House, 1982.

[2] Beth Moore, A Woman’s Heart: God’s Dwelling Place, 215.

[3] Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller, The Songs of Jesus, 108.

[4] Based on Psalm 51:1-3, 7, 9-10, and a devotional by Dane C. Ortlund, In the Lord I Take Refuge, 144.

[5] Psalm 99:5

[6] Ephesians 4:6

[7] Based on James 1:5 NLT

[8] Proverbs 3:5-6

[9] Psalm 118:7a

[10] 2 Corinthians 4:6

[11] Based on The Spiritual Life by Andrew Murray, Whitaker House, 1996, pp. 148, 155.

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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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Celebrating God through the Psalms

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 Strength, God's Wisdom, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , , , , on January 16, 2025| 32 Comments »

One way to get better acquainted with God is to read through the psalms, watch for statements pertaining to him, and write them down.

That last step is important, as research has proven: writing (not typing) helps us learn and retain what we’ve written [1]. In this case it will also increase our appreciation of God’s glorious attributes and gracious acts on our behalf.

I chose to participate in this exercise during Advent, and became astonished by the number of statements about God, totaling over three hundred by the time I reached Psalm 150. I even skipped over those that I remembered listing previously.

Some psalms offer a number of statements about God, one after another. Psalm 23 includes nine, Psalm 103, sixteen, and Psalm 145, twenty.

Perhaps that explains why these psalms are among the favorites of many people. Subconsciously we crave reassurance of God’s power, wisdom, and goodness working on our behalf.

A lesser-known psalm perhaps, #71, offers seven encouraging descriptors of God:

He is our sovereign Lord (v. 5) over all things, even our blunders and regrets.

No matter my poor choices, God can redeem them. “Our mistakes can never thwart the sovereign will of God” [2].

How thankful I am for that!

He is the One who’s been my hope and confidence since my youth (v. 5).

I’ve been a Jesus-follower since age four. Never have I toyed with the idea of abandoning my faith in him, because I learned early on from the saints around me:

  • God is a good and loving Father
  • There is purpose in everything God does
  • He will bring me through whatever I might face
  • He is accomplishing a good and eternal work in my life [3]

I’d be foolish to turn my back on Someone so invested in my welfare.

God is splendorous (v. 8).

We could surely add more attributes to Brooks’ list. God provides so many wonderful, spiritual blessings in Christ (Ephesians 1:3)!

He is the One who performs marvelous, mighty, and righteous deeds (vs. 16-18).

In truth, “The whole world is a series of miracles, but we’re so used to them we call them ordinary things” [4].

May we rediscover the wonder of God’s deeds in evidence all around us, and respond with gratitude and praise.

He is the One who’s taught me since my youth (v. 17).

Over time I’ve come to cherish God’ Word. And even though I’ve spent many happy hours in study, its inspiration never grows old.

That is very good news.

God is the One whose righteousness reaches up to the heavens (v. 19).

That’s good news too, because “there is no perfect life, no perfect job, no perfect childhood, no perfect marriage, and no set of people who always do what we expect them to do.

“What we do have is a perfect God who is able to lead us through this imperfect life with unfailing strength, infallible wisdom, and infinite love”—Unknown.

Praise God for his attentive participation in our lives!

He is the One who’s done great things. Who is like You, God (v. 19)?

All of these descriptors, among the dozens of others proclaimed in the psalms, do make clear:

P.S. My list of God-descriptors has become the basis for personal worship. Each morning I slowly read and pray back to him one page of the collected statements. The practice renews wonder and gratitude for my marvelous Heavenly Father.

Perhaps you’d like to try it too?

[1] Denise Hughes, Deeper Waters, 89.

[2] Bev Rihtarchik, contributor to A Moment to Breathe, 151.

[3] Dr. Charles Stanley, Advancing through Adversity, 101.

[4] Hans Christian Andersen

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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.

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Depending on Where You Look

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on October 24, 2024| 64 Comments »

This time of year, if you take a walk through the woods with your eyes on the trail, you’ll note languishing undergrowth, shriveled toward the dusty ground.

Daylight has waned, temperatures have cooled, and plant life is beginning to wither. Not an inspiring sight.  

But what if you look up? The trees display a cacophony of autumn color: golden yellow, burnt orange, and scarlet red. The brilliance can take your breath away.

And you’re reminded: Depending on where you look, you can be discouraged by dullness or uplifted by grandeur.

*     *     *

Take a look at your calendar or planner for next month. No doubt you’ll find some upcoming responsibilities you’d like to eliminate: the dentist appointment, your flu shot, getting the car serviced, and more—not the way you’d like to spend your time.

But what if you focus on upcoming delights such as the get-togethers of your small group or Bible study partners? The lunch date with old friends? A fun community event? Now the upcoming month doesn’t look so disheartening.

And you realize: Depending on where you look, you can become dispirited by dread or uplifted by anticipation.

*     *     *

Watch or listen to the news and you’ll hear about the cruelty, criminality, and dishonesty in our world. Overexposure to the mayhem can lead to anxiety and depression.

But what if you balance the necessity of being informed with the joy of being inspired?

Meditate on such Bible psalms as #16, #23, #103, and #145 to replenish your spirit with truth and hope. Turn to such websites as https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/ that offer articles about troubles relieved, problems solved.

Volunteers help with reconstruction after an earthquake in Haiti

And you’ll find: Depending on where you look, you can be discouraged by widespread wrongdoing or encouraged by the perfections of God and his activity around the world.

*     *     *

It’s easy to fixate on the disappointing and maddening stuff of each day, then tell someone else about it, and grumble together how people can be so incompetent, rude, and thoughtless.

But what if you look for the gracious people and share their stories–the kind interstate driver who let you merge into a tight line of traffic? The pharmacy cashier with the consistent and genuine smile? The school volunteer who faithfully reads to the kindergartners each week—from her wheelchair?

And you discover: Depending on where you look, the atmosphere can be clouded by negativity or brightened with positivity.

*     *     *

A change of view

can produce a heart renewed

—depending on where you look.

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CHILL!

Posted in Encouragement, Excellence, God's Love, Godly Character, Renewing the Mind, Success, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on October 3, 2024| 45 Comments »

Years ago when our middle granddaughter was a preschooler, we took her to an arcade. In the back corner stood a few free games and among them, two old Tetris side by side.

Some of you will remember this game. Shapes drift down from the screen-top; the player must manipulate them, fitting them together in a solid wall as they reach the bottom—without leaving holes.

After a quick explanation of how to play, E. happily started pushing buttons. I decided to play the neighboring game. Bad mistake.

Video games never were my forte, and the passing years had not contributed to my skills. Frustration began to build as hole after hole appeared in my wall.

At game’s end, E. cried with joyful triumph, “Look Nana! Look at the pretty design I made!”

Though her screen displayed many colorful shapes, there were numerous holes. But that didn’t matter to E. In her view she’d created an eye-catching piece of art.

E. taught me a lesson that day. My attitude could often be improved if I just focused on the positive of what IS and not on the negative of what ISN’T.

All too frequently I’ve strived for unattainable goals, wasted time on unimportant details, or sacrificed rest while slaving through a lengthy to-do-list. I’ve also cared too much what other people thought.

All of these traits are symptoms of perfectionism.

Why are we perfectionists so strict on ourselves? Perhaps it’s because we don’t want to be:

  • ashamed of our performance or handiwork
  • blamed when our efforts aren’t up to par
  • judged inferior or lacking in some way

To move away from such fears and toward the freedom Christ offers (John 8:36), we need to CHILL by affirming these attitudes and actions.

I am:

  • C elebrating more often what’s right, criticizing less often what’s wrong
  • H appy with “good enough” when appropriate
  • I nspiring others with my imperfections!
  • L istening to the truth
  • L oved by God as I am

To jump-start such declarations, consider the following.

CELEBRATE

When faulty efforts occur, we can CELEBRATE this: “A flawed rose still smells sweet” (Unknown). I can still carry the fragrance of Christ as I rely upon him through the mistakes and failures.

(Be) HAPPY

“We don’t have to be perfect to be wonderful” (Unknown).

Lots of fantastic people in this world display admirable qualities, but not one of them is perfect.

You’re wonderful too! Give yourself the same grace you give others.

INSPIRE

“There’s no need to be perfect in order to inspire others. Let people get inspired by how you deal with your imperfections”—Ziad K. Abdelnour.

Also true:

LISTEN

Listen to such truths as these to silence the voice of perfectionism:

  • Jesus did live a perfect life yet was criticized incessantly. However, all he cared about was his Father’s approval, which God bestowed (Matthew 3:17). You know who else is approved? Everyone who believes in Jesus!

Everyone who believes has God’s approval

through faith in Jesus Christ.

Romans 3:22a GW

  • The godly Apostle Paul admitted—after thirty-years as a Jesus-follower— he hadn’t achieved perfection. Even so, he found satisfaction in pressing on toward spiritual maturity (Philippians 3:12-13).
  • We can combat the striving as we embrace God’s desires for us—to lie down in his green pastures now and then, and not fill every minute with activity—to lead us beside quiet waters, and not struggle in a churning ocean of busyness (Psalm 23:1-3).

(Receive) LOVE

God has made it clear: “[He] loves us because of who he is, not because of who we are” (Unknown, 1 John 4:10).

His love for us is:

  • Sacrificial (Romans 5:8)
  • Lavish (1 John 3:1)
  • Patient, kind, unfailing, and more (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)
  • Forgiving (Ephesians 4:32)
  • Everlasting (Jeremiah 31:3)

So! When perfectionism insists we aim even beyond excellence, let’s remember:

There are no perfect daughters, wives or mothers; no perfect sons, husbands, or fathers; no perfect employees, no perfect homes. No one has it 100% together.

“What we do have is a perfect God who is able to lead us through this imperfect life with unfailing strength, incomparable wisdom, and infinite love” (Unknown).

Like our granddaughter E., we can celebrate with joyful triumph the cumulating designs of our lives—imperfect though they may be.

Let’s CHILL!

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Three Ways to Enjoy God

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Delight, God's Goodness, God's Presence, God's Promises, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , on September 19, 2024| 41 Comments »

(An imaginary conversation between God and me, but I invite you to put your name in the blanks):

ME: You’ve heard me say, Lord, “I can’t imagine life without You,” because You’ve been an invaluable, all-wise influence through the years.

You’ve provided protection, guidance, care, and more. Just knowing You are with me gives me comfort, strength, and peace.

GOD: Ministering to you in these ways has been My delight, __________. I do love to see you practicing My presence—asking for My help and connecting with Me through praise and prayer.

As you draw near to Me, you experience wonder, quiet, calm, and warmth.  

ME: Thank you Father for these blessings! But I’m still on the learning curve of sustained awareness. Distractions frequently interfere. It seems I’ll never attain moment-by-moment communion with You.

GOD: I understand, __________. Remember, I’m the One who made you and am well aware you cannot achieve perfection [1].

What I value is progress, and rest assured, that is occurring.

Think back to the days when you experienced great difficulty practicing My presence. Your thoughts rarely turned toward Me once your morning quiet time was over—unless you ran into trouble.

Now you come to Me much more frequently, giving Me the opportunity to strengthen and encourage you. Keep coming back to Me, __________.

The day will come when we enjoy almost-unbroken communion and it will be all the sweeter for the wait. Meanwhile, there are habits-of-thought to embrace that will advance your progress toward that day:

BE ATTENTIVE TO MY ATTRIBUTES

Stay alert to discover reminders of Me everywhere. And let each discovery bring to mind one or more of My attributes.

As attentiveness leads to praise and praise to joy, you’ll find yourself nestled more closely to My side. That’s where I long for you to be!

BE GRATEFUL FOR MY BLESSINGS

Ask yourself throughout the day, “What can I thank God for right now?”

For example, your answer in this moment might include the colorful fall flowers in the deck planter—a delight for your eyes—enjoyed in the surroundings of My living room [2].

And as we enjoy such blessings together, you’ll find your heart drawing close to Me.

AFFIRM MY PROMISES

Come worship at My footstool, __________ (Psalm 132:7).

Look up into My face and see in My eyes the love I have for you. See in My smile the delight you bring Me. Imagine My hand upon your back and feel My compassion.

Now, breathe out your cares and breathe in the truth of My promises. Listen closely as I affirm:

  • I love you __________ with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3).
  • I will always help you (Isaiah 41:13).
  • My lovingkindness prevails over you (Psalm 117:2 AMP).
  • I am in control of all things (Ephesians 4:6).
  • I will work all things together for the good of those who love Me, who seek to live out My purpose for them (Romans 8:28).

It delights Me that you want to be more aware of My presence. Know that I take deep pleasure in every occasion you turn your attention toward Me.

Know too that beautiful transformation is taking place within you each time you do, because you can’t spend time in My presence and not grow more into My likeness [3].

 *      *      *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

ME: Thank You, Father, for encouraging me toward greater intimacy with You, to enjoy You more fervently. Help me pause and sense Your presence, even in the ordinary moments of life.

May I create space for You through attentiveness to Your attributes on display, gratitude for Your countless blessings, and review of Your uplifting promises.

May I remember:

 I don’t want to miss that pleasure, even for a moment.

[1] Psalm 103:13-14

[2] Those of you who visit here often will probably remember that Michael Hyatt, former CEO of Thomas Publishing, is the one who calls the outdoors God’s living room. I love that imagery!

[3] 2 Corinthians 3:18

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You Are What You Eat

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Peace, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on September 12, 2024| 37 Comments »

 No doubt all of us have heard those five words of the title.

We’re well aware that optimum food choices support optimum health while poor choices contribute to health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, as well as quality-of-life ailments such as infection, fatigue, and brain fog [1].

But not everyone seems to know the same principle applies in the spiritual realm.

What we feed our souls impacts our spiritual health.

For example, research affirms a steady diet of isolation, dwelling on the negative, scrolling through social media, and binge-watching movies and TV all contribute to depression [2].

However, there is an alternative that results in less anxiety and more peace, less dissatisfaction and more contentment, less fear and more strength. That alternative is meditation on scripture.

What It Means to Meditate

Some might ask, So I’m supposed to read the Bible to make me feel better?

Actually, reading alone isn’t enough, any more than licking a carrot will provide the day’s requirement of vitamin A. No, to nourish the soul we need to regularly meditate on God’s Word.

“Biblical meditation is pondering the words of scripture with a receptive heart, and trusting the Holy Spirit to work in us through those words” [3] (emphasis added).

It’s slow-reading that contributes to savoring scripture much as slow-eating contributes to savoring food.

Why Meditate

My ponderings most often occur on paper. Sometimes I journal through the meaning of a passage; other times I might compose a prayer in response to what I’ve read.

Writing slows and augments my thinking. As I record impressions and prayers, new discoveries have a chance to surface, truths impact my spirit more profoundly, and encouragement nourishes my soul.

In addition, meditation on scripture offers transformation of:

  • Thought processes and choices, as God’s truth cultivates wisdom.
  • Attitudes as mentioned above—anxiety into peace, discontentment into satisfaction, fear into strength, and more.
  • Character, as I contemplate God’s attributes, and they begin to rub off on me [4].
  • Action, as a deeper relationship with God results in compassionate, loving action toward others [5].

How to Meditate

Not sure how to start? Perhaps these suggestions will be helpful. (You’ll also find a sample below.)

  • Write out the scripture or an especially-meaningful part of it. Look up definitions or synonyms of key words.
  • If you’re reading a narrative-passage, use your imagination to put yourself in the position of one of the characters. What might they be thinking and feeling?
  • Prayerfully consider what truth God wants you to understand from the verse(s).
  • Identify the characteristics of God on display or directly mentioned.  Praise him for who he is and what he has done (Psalm 150:2).
  • Write a sentence or two of prayer, presenting yourself before God to accomplish or become whatever he’s revealed during your time of meditation [6]. As you begin to write, you’ll discover more thoughts to express.

An Example of Meditative Writing

Below you’ll find an example of meditative prayer based on Psalm 31:14-15a:

I trust in you, Lord; you are my God. You’ve proven yourself faithful thousands of times in my life, demonstrating your love and compassion, wisdom and guidance, goodness and generosity [7].

Thank you for being such a gracious God! No matter what happens in the future, I know I can trust you to supply my needs. It’s a wondrous thing to rest in you, especially during these uncertain times.

You are my steadfast foundation, my shelter from the storms of life, and my strong tower of safety [8]. Thank you for these comforting images, giving vivid assurance of your power to care for your people in all circumstances. I’m so grateful my future is in your capable hands.

Just as we’d never wolf down a magnificent meal in a fine restaurant, we’d be wise not to wolf down the rich substance of scripture.

And in the savoring, we experience more intimately and powerfully the reality of God.

[1] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/department/wellness/integrative/shared-medical-appointments/eating-well-for-optimal-health-sma ; https://www.webmed.com/diet/what-is-a-balanced-diet

[2] https://www.webmd.com/depression/features/depression-traps-and-pitfalls

[3] https://ourdailybread.org/resources/what-is-biblical-meditation/

[4] Linda Dillow, Satisfy the Thirsty Soul, 15.

[5] https://www.gcu.edu/blog/theology-ministry/theology-thursday-christian-perspective-meditation

[6] See Tim Keller’s list of additional questions:

Questions Tim Keller gives to help meditate on Scripture

[7] These previous posts offer examples: After the Fact, Liquid Love, and Sweetness and Power.

[8] Isaiah 33:6 CEV; 25:4; Proverbs 18:10

Photo credits: http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.flickr.com (David Andrako); http://www.canva.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.commons.wikipedia.org.

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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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Murmurs in the Silence

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, Intimacy with God, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged , , , , , , , on June 27, 2024| 36 Comments »

Imagine an impression, conviction, direction or affirmation imprinted so strongly upon your spirit that you knew for certain it came from God. It’s an appealing idea, but we may wonder:

How can we know when a thought is divinely bestowed?

The above promise from Jeremiah 33:3 indicates we can distinguish God’s voice. (Further evidence includes Isaiah 30:21, John 8:47, Revelation 3:20, and more.)

In addition, many respected Jesus-followers offer affirmation, based on their own experience.

Below you’ll find excerpts from some of these teachers, preachers, and authors, to answer our questions about hearing God speak within our hearts—questions like:

TO WHOM DOES GOD SPEAK?

To those who belong to God.

To those who make time for stillness.

God [is] waiting in the depths of my being to speak to me

if I would only be still enough to hear His voice.

–A. B. Simpson, quoted in Streams in the Desert, 255

To those willing to sit in silence.

Silence is the room we create for the searching of God,

where we hear his voice and follow.

–Mark Buchanan, http://christian.net/resources/bible-verses-about-hearing-god/

To those who prepare themselves to hear.

God will speak to the hearts of those who prepare themselves to hear.

–A. W. Tozer, God Still Speaks; Are We Listening?

WHY DOES GOD SPEAK INTO THE HEARTS OF HIS CHILDREN?

When God speaks, His chief aim is to reveal Himself.

He desires to make Himself known and lead

you into a more intimate relationship with Him.

–Priscilla Shirer, Discerning God’s Voice, 105

HOW CAN WE KNOW THAT GOD IS ACTUALLY SPEAKING TO US?

He speaks in love (Jeremiah 31:3), not condemnation (Romans 8:1).

One of the distinguishing characteristics

which will identify His voice is that it will

highlight His great, never-ending love for us . . .

Even when He is disciplining and correcting you

He is still operating from

His foundational character of love.

Love is how He is.

–Priscilla Shirer Discerning God’s Voice, 112

Whatever God says will concur with his Word.

When God speaks, it always lines up with the Bible—

His character and His actions.

He is kind, loving, inspirational, wise, healing,

and convicting without being condemning.

–Alice Clarke, https://www.catchthefire.com/blog/prophecy-prophetic-c45wm

Confirmation from elsewhere may also present itself.

When [God] speaks to you internally,

and then causes other events to confirm what he’s saying,

it’s not coincidence, luck, or chance.

It is likely his sovereign hand orchestrating circumstances

to help lead you to his will.

When God speaks, he does so persistently.

–Priscilla Shirer, Discerning God’s Voice, 76

WHAT CAN WE DO TO IMPROVE OUR LISTENING ABILITY?

Spend time in God’s Word.

The more time we spend in the Bible,

the more familiar we become with his voice,

making it easier to recognize it when he speaks.

–Denise J. Hughes, Deeper Waters, 50

Pray.

Prayer can lead regularly to personal encounter with God,

which can be indeed a wondrous, mysterious, awe-filled experience.

–Friedrich Heiler, Prayer: A Study, 129. Referenced by Timothy Keller in

Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, 43.

Be still.

How rare it is to find a soul quiet enough to hear God speak.

–Francois Fenelon

Take time to wait.

I listen for His voice. I wait. I take the time.

And He has never failed to meet me

at the place of listening.

–Joni Eareckson Tada, 31 Days Toward Intimacy, 82

Stay alert.

God murmurs in the silence of unexpected places.

–l. l. barkat, God in the Yard, 87.

Even at the kitchen sink.

“Just as this beautiful cluster of grapes once grew on a vine,

you are growing beautiful fruit as you abide in Me”–JESUS (John 15:5).

If we ask God to reveal himself, he’ll do it—as he chooses—through little whispers, confirmations, divine delays and heavenly echoes that corroborate with what he’s already saying through His Word and Spirit (Priscilla Shirer, Discerning God’s Voice, 193).

Let’s ask him now.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Jesus, please quiet all the loud voices that flood my heart and mind. Give me ears to hear the gentle sound of your voice. Speak Lord, your servant is listening. Amen (Chrystal Evans Hurst, Kingdom Woman Devotional, 41).

Psalm 37:7; 1 Samuel 3:9

Photo credits: http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pexels.com (2); http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.pexels.com.

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