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Blessing Boosters

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Joy, Uncategorized, tagged Appreciation, Blessings, Contentment, Gratitude, Joy on March 27, 2014| 20 Comments »

Year ago, someone wrote a tongue-in-cheek article, “What Your Favorite Color Says about You.” It was quite amusing. Sure wish I had saved it. Alas.

Anyway, I remember thinking, Oh, this will be so much fun to share with the girls at lunch. Those girls would be the other fourth grade teachers at my school.

Sure enough, my colleagues not only enjoyed it, they laughed till they cried. In fact, I did, too. A few times I could hardly get the words out before a giggle-fit would overpower me.

Had the happy-tears come while reading to myself? No. I don’t even think I laughed out loud. Only when I shared it.

And once again I experienced the phenomenon:

To share a joy is to expand the joy.

It’s a blessing booster!

C.S. Lewis explained such occurrences this way (and with extreme eloquence, I might add): “We delight to praise what we enjoy because the praise not merely expresses but completes the enjoyment.”

Yet sharing joy to expand the joy is not the only way to appreciate more fully God’s blessings.

Paying attention to details also heightens our awareness of God’s glory around us. Let’s face it: How often do we miss his blessings because we’re so distracted?

I’m still striving to learn this blessing-booster: living aware. Too often my thoughts are focused on events, what-ifs, the to-do list. I need to:

Take note of the graceful sway of Spanish moss in the trees.

Breathe deeply the aroma of a crisp spring morning.

Listen to the happy chirps of a sparrow.

Truly taste the nutty goodness of freshly brewed coffee (not just gulp it down).

Focus on the cool smoothness of a rose petal.

To live aware is to experience constant joy in the wonder around us.

Another blessing-booster is the natural result of living aware: gratitude. Expressing contentment for what we already have, even the little things, can profoundly effect our spirits.

For example, I am deeply grateful for:

Steve’s three squeezes when he holds my hand. It means, “I love you;” and we’ve been passing that silent message back and forth for over forty years.

Color. Any color of the rainbow. God could have created the world in shades of gray. It probably wouldn’t have mattered. But the variety, the interest, and infinite number of combinations add such great pleasure to our lives.

The dimples on a baby’s hand. The epitome of cuteness.

As I contemplate each one, I smile, because:

To be full of gratitude is be full of joy.

And perhaps that’s the best blessing-booster of them all.

* * * * * * * * * *

What blessing-booster expands your joy? Tell us about it in the Comment section below!

(Photo credits: www.writeamberwrite.com; http://www.bridgetolife.de/administrator/moss-tree; http://www.peacefulplanetcommunication.com)

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Life, Faith, and Finishing Well

Posted in Book Reviews, Encouragement, Faith, Maturity, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged Aging Gracefully, Billy Graham, Nearing Home, Retirement Advice on March 24, 2014| 14 Comments »

Those words, “Life, Faith, and Finishing Well,” are actually the subtitle of Nearing Home (2011), by Billy Graham.

Most Americans recognize that name immediately. In fact, people around the world know of the famous preacher. For nearly fifty years, he held mass meetings in numerous large cities, and introduced millions to Jesus. His radio program, television broadcasts, and writings have further expanded his renown.

After such a long, fruitful ministry, Dr. Graham has earned the right to tell us how to live well during our remaining days.

He includes practical advice, to answer such questions as: When should I retire? What should I keep in mind as I plan for the golden years? What legal issues should I settle so my children won’t have to?

Dr. Graham also inspires us with his wisdom:

” Look for the Lord’s purpose in every circumstance and in every face or voice you encounter daily, for the time He has given you is not without purpose” (p. 38).

“Whatever you do, keep your mind and your body occupied; don’t give laziness or boredom a chance to take root in your soul” (p. 47).

“God designs transitions and provides the grace to embrace what follows” (p. 165).

M-m-m. Such advice would be helpful for the high school graduate heading off to college or the workplace, just as much as the senior citizen!

Billy also offers up much encouragement. He names numerous senior citizens of the Bible and draws attention to the work God gave them to do.

The record of some we know well:

Abraham was 100 when Isaac was born, and the foundation for the Israelite nation was finally established.

Moses was 80 when he led the Israelites out of Egypt.

Daniel was still serving as prime minister of the Medo-Persian empire, at age 80.

Others are not so familiar:

Barzillai, age 80, helped to save the life of King David and his men (2 Samuel 17:28-29).

Jeremiah remained faithful to his prophet-calling, probably into his nineties

Haggai wrote his book of prophecy at age 70.

These men had probably slowed down a bit, compared to their energetic youth. (Moses is the only exception. Deuteronomy 34:7 tells us that, when he died at age 120, “his strength was not gone.”) All of us, sooner or later, experience that life-shift from speed to sputter!

But slowing down is not the same as stopping. “Retirement should not put us on a shelf,” says Dr. Graham (p. 28). One option: lift up others who are carrying heavy loads. We can pray, encourage, and offer help as we’re able.

What else contributes to aging gracefully? Age gratefully. Follow Paul’s instruction, Philippians 4:8:

“You’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious–the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise not things to curse” (The Message).

Again, just as applicable to a teenager as an octogenarian–and all of us in between.

Because no matter how old each of us might be, our foundations of faith can always use reinforcing.

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

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It’s Raining, It’s Pouring

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged 2 Samuel 23:4, Deuteronomy 32:2, Ezekiel 34:26, Hosea 10:12, Hosea 6:2, Psalm 51:7, Showers of Blessing on March 20, 2014| 16 Comments »

As you undoubtedly know, Florida summers are long, hot, and humid. Winter can vary from warm and humid to cold and damp. In between we enjoy those glorious, balmy days the Sunshine State is famous for.

We also have a dry season through the winter months, and a wet season during the summer. Our “wet” usually comes in a daily downpour, accompanied by much thunder and lightning. In the southernmost parts of the state you can practically set your watch by the arrival of the afternoon storm. The good news is, it’s almost always short-lived.

Then there are days like Monday, with dense cloud cover and a steady rain for hours. Highly unusual, especially during the dry season.

For those planning a trip to the beach or a round of golf, it was a wash out. (Sorry. Couldn’t resist the pun.)

For the bookish who didn’t have to go to work, it was a godsend. Nothing cozier than curling up with a good book, to the patter of soft rain.

And for Tuesday, we could all look forward to crisp, clean air and vistas of sparkling greenery and flowers.

And we could remember: “He will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth” (Hosea 6:2).

Yes. God comes…

…with his love and grace to wash away the cloying dust of sin (Psalm 51:7).

…with his Word that refreshes our spirits (Deuteronomy 32:2). Drop by drop, day by day, providing life-giving nutrients to our spirits. Nutrients like strength, wisdom, and encouragement.

…with cleansing (2 Samuel 23:4). He removes false-guilt, negativity, and fear. In their place he provides freedom, contentment, and peace.

…with showers of joy and blessing (Ezekiel 34:26), to cast a fresh glow on our surroundings. All day, every day he is bestowing love-gifts through creation, family, friends, circumstances, and pleasures great and small.

…to shower righteousness on all who claim Jesus as Savior (Hosea 10:12), not just a select few. Anyone can exchange his/ her smudges and stains of imperfections for his sparkling righteousness.

Oh, yes…

It’s raining, it’s pouring;

Our God we’re adoring!

His mercies fall fresh;

They are new every morning!

Hallelujah!

(Photo credit: hdwallpapersuk.com.)

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When Circumstances Spin Out of Control

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Prayer, Uncategorized on March 17, 2014| 10 Comments »

Remember the legends of knights in shining armor, rescuing damsels in distress?

Many young girls have daydreamed about such a warrior, rescuing them from school ( in time to miss the math test, please), from irritating siblings (who mess with our stuff), and from chores (which are so boring).

But, Sir Lancelot never did ride his steed up the street, clank up to the front door, and announce his desire to marry the maiden of the household. Warriors do not exist in today’s world.

Except, in a much more serious realm than fantasy land.

In the spiritual realm.

We have a Prayer Warrior. Someone who is continually presenting to God Almighty our needs.

“The Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express” (Romans 8:26).

Think of it. The Holy Spirit of God is praying for us!

When we’re highly distracted, and can’t keep our minds focused, the Spirit steps in and becomes our Champion.

During those times when we’re too distraught to put out thoughts into words, he comes to our aid.

When situations confound us, he knows what’s needed.

I’m thinking of the time our thirteen-year old daughter awoke us around 4:00 in the morning, because she was in terrible pain. After explaining the situation to our older son, we bundled Heather into the van, and sped to the ER.

En route, she lay in the fetal position, moaning intermittently, and sometimes crying out when a severe spasm cramped her midsection.

Those long moments on the road and then waiting in the ER were tortuous. I was the quintessential mother-in-distress, frustrated by helplessness and anxious about the outcome. Putting together a coherent prayer was out of the question.

I just repeated silently in my heart, “Oh, Jesus. Oh, Jesus. Oh, Jesus.”

Was that enough?

If, at that moment, I could have glimpsed into the heavenly realm, I may have witnessed the Holy Spirit taking firm hold of the situation and speaking eloquently to God the Father on our behalf.

Then, he would have communicated the fear in our hearts “with intense groanings that words could not express.” He knew the height of our anxiety. Words do not suffice at such a moment, any more than mere words can properly convey love or grief, or any number of emotions.

Ray Stedman (1917-1992), author and pastor, concluded: “Language is not essential to Divine intercession.” I agree.

God chose to intervene that morning. A physical exam and sonogram revealed that a cyst was causing all the trouble. Miraculously it burst on its own within hours of our arrival at the hospital. Surgery was not necessary. By 9:00, we were on our way home, with Heather resting comfortably.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, God, thank you for providing your Holy Spirit to come to our aid, to bear us up in our weakness. We do not know how to pray as we ought, and sometimes we don’t even know what to pray.

But your Spirit pleads on our behalf, even communicating unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for words. And because you, your Spirit, and your Son, Jesus, are three-in-one, you know the Spirit’s every thought. Inaudible prayers are more than sufficient.

We praise you, oh God, for the depth of your loving provision, especially when circumstances spin out of control.

(Art & photo credits: www.pinterest.com, www. dawnwhitmorespeaks.org.)

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Goodness and Mercy Will Follow

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged Blessings, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Presence, God's Provision, Psalm 23:6 on March 13, 2014| 8 Comments »

“Surely goodness and mercy will follow me, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Sound familiar? That’s the last verse of Psalm 23.

It turned up somewhere in my reading this week. Can’t remember exactly where.

But I do remember thinking, Wait a minute. Follow? Why didn’t David say, “Surely goodness and mercy are with me?” It doesn’t seem very helpful to have God’s goodness and mercy behind me.

After all these years of familiarity with this beloved psalm, I was suddenly quite puzzled. What could David’s statement mean?

I started with the dictionary. Did you know there are twelve different meanings for the verb, follow? Several of the definitions opened up new understanding for me. See what you think:

1. Follow means to be the result of, as in, “A discussion followed the presentation.”

God’s goodness and mercy are the result of availing ourselves of his shepherding, his watchful care and wise guidance (vs. 1-3). We don’t have to beg for his loving kindness; it is automatically bestowed as we trust in God. Isn’t that glorious?

“Your righteousness reaches to the skies, O God, you who have done great things. Who, O God, is like you” (Psalm 71:19)?

But. If we take a pass on his leadership, we have no right to expect his blessing.

2. Follow means to keep to or stick to, as in “Follow these guidelines.”

The Bible scholars of GOD’S WORD Translation must have embraced this definition. “God’s goodness and mercy will stay close to me,” they wrote. One commentator said these attributes of God cling to us. I like that, too.

3. Follow means to pursue, to move behind with the intention of overtaking as in “The detectives followed the suspect.”

Isn’t that wonderful imagery, of God pursuing us with his goodness and mercy and never giving up?

Those translators who have chosen stay close to me, or pursue, do enlighten our understanding. But one truth of David’s statement is best served with the more familiar verb, follow: We often don’t see God’s goodness and mercy until the experience has passed. It’s in looking back we see that he did pursue us and cling to us, lavishly imparting all his attributes.

For example, ever have one of those weeks when the to-do list is long, and there seems no way to accomplish it all? I’ve seen God engineer circumstances so that an item or two could be postponed, another one or two are cancelled, and a few don’t take as long as expected. One way or another, the list of tasks is checked off. And with a sigh of relief I look back and realize God had been following me, taking care of things as the week progressed.

“He rescues and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth” (Daniel 6:27). Even for one woman with too much to do.

Every time God demonstrates his close attention, I try to record the incident in my blessings journal. Watching that list grow has increased my faith; all the experiences have taught me I can continue to trust. The goodness and mercy of God will follow me all the days of my life.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Father, I marvel to think your continual presence is close to me. I can turn to you at any moment and you are there, ready and waiting to minister to my needs. Out of your goodness you give me countless blessings that I don’t deserve; out of your mercy you have withheld consequences for my sin that I do deserve. Thank you for pursuing me with patience, gentleness, and compassion.

Now may I be passionate to follow you, all the remaining days of my life. “And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” How glorious to know that, even while living on earth, I can dwell in your presence within my spirit. I rejoice in your name all day long and exult in your righteousness, for you are my glory and strength (Psalm 89:16-17)!

(Photo credit: http://ourdailyblossom.com.)

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A Foundation of Absolutes

Posted in Bible Study, Faith, God's Provision, God's Strength, Jesus, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged Biblical Absolutes, Deuteronomy 32:4, God's Provision, God's Strength, God's Ways, Hebrews 13:8, Jesus our Rock, Matthew 7L24-27, Psalm 27:5, Psalm 40:1-2, Renewing the Mind, The Wise Man and the Foolish Man on March 10, 2014| 10 Comments »

You probably remember the story.

A foolish man built his house on sand; a wise man built his home on rock. When a storm came, the house built on sand fell with a great crash. But the wise man’s house stood firm (Matthew 7:24-27).

With this parable Jesus offers visual imagery for choosing man’s way to live or God’s way:

1) You can choose to build your life on getting ahead and having a good time, but in the end you will have nothing.

Or,

2) You can choose to build your life on faith in Jesus, and in the end you will receive great gain–a Rock of stability to depend on now, and perfect bliss in heaven for eternity.

Jesus is:

Reliable. “He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4).

Unchanging. “Jesus is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).

Protective. “In the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling..and set me high upon a rock” (Psalm 27:5).

But I’m thinking the story about houses built on sand and rock could be applied to our thought lives, too.

For example, if we allow our minds to focus on the shifting sands of circumstance, we sink into negativity, worry, and fear.

If we focus on a firm foundation of scriptural absolutes, a sense of tranquility and strength pervades our spirits.

What are those absolutes? The Bible teaches many, including the following:

God loves us — so much that he sent his only Son to die in our place. Jesus took the punishment for our sins that we deserve (John 3:16). Now, I’ve heard that statement thousands of times. Perhaps you have, too. But we mustn’t allow familiarity to reduce this truth to banality. His love for us is everlasting. Deep. Caring. Forgiving. Full of grace. Let’s bask in the wonder of his love!

God has a plan for each of our lives, and it’s a good plan (Jeremiah 29:11). Notice God doesn’t promise a pleasurable plan. God loves us too much to allow addiction to fun. With his goodness comes discipline, so that we become mature. In the final analysis, immature people are not the most content anyway. They are self-centered and tend to whine and complain. I don’t want to be that kind of person, and I’ll bet you don’t either. So let’s accept the absolute goodness of God’s plan.

God will equip and empower us for his plan (Isaiah 41:10). He’s the one who formed mountains, engineered ecosystems, and filled infinite space with countless stars. This same God lives within us and works through us, fostering resolve, strength, and perseverance. Let’s turn to him moment by moment to avail ourselves of his power.

And as we affirm such truths, we are reinforcing our foundation upon the Rock. Stone upon stone. Solid, firm, and strong. When the storms come– economic setbacks, health problems, emotional hurts–we will not collapse into a heap.

With David we will be able to exult in God’s provision:

“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand…Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust” (Psalm 40:1-2, 4b).

* * * * * * * * * *

What scriptural absolutes are part of your foundation? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below!

( art credit: www.intheleafytreetopsthebirssing.blogspot.com)

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Identity Crisis

Posted in God-Given Abilities, Renewing the Mind, Self-Esteem, Uncategorized, tagged Colossians 2:10, Contentment, Genesis 1:26-27, Identity Crisis, Identity in Christ, Psalm 8:4-5, r, Romans 8:14, Romans 8:17, Self-Esteem, Self-Worth on March 6, 2014| 21 Comments »

As I approached the grocery check-out, I was surprised to see an acquaintance behind the counter. Another pastor’s wife.

“Hi, Cheryl*,” I said, while loading produce and paper products on the conveyor belt. “I didn’t know you worked here.”

“I just started,” she explained, swiping my purchases across the UPC reader screen. What she said next startled me. “Jim and I are getting a divorce. I’ve moved out, and needed a job to help support myself.”

“Cheryl, I am so sorry.”

“Oh, no. Don’t be. It was my choice. I couldn’t stand it anymore.”

If the divorce announcement had startled me, her next words were downright shocking. Especially because they were spoken with such bitterness.

“It just became unbearable not to have an identity of my own.” Cheryl almost spat out her words. “I was always ‘Jim’s* wife.’ Well, no more.”

My first thought was, hasn’t she sensed the team effort of a pastorate? Couldn’t she take joy in how God was using her husband?

Perhaps Jim was partly to blame. Maybe he never included her, using the pronoun “I” more frequently than “we,” never affirming how important she was to his work and well-being.

When I told my husband, Steve, about the encounter, he said, “Cheryl doesn’t realize her identity is in Jesus.”

He was right. She must have thought that asserting her own personhood would somehow make her more important.

Just what is our identity in Jesus? Nestle down into the comforting words of these scriptures:

“Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over…all the earth.” (Genesis 1:26-27).

Author and theologian, Melvin Tinker, adds this insight: “Men and women are the jewels in the crown of God’s creation. Out of all the beings in the universe only men and women are God-like, bearing His image” (Wisdom to Live By, Christian Focus Publications, 1998, p. 112).

Did you get that? You are a jewel, created uniquely by God, in his image.

“What is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor” (Psalm 8:4-5).

Each of us is highly valuable to God–crowned with glory and honor. No position makes a person more important in God’s view; no gift makes someone superior.

“Those who are led by the Spirit of God are the sons [and daughters] of God” (Romans 8:14).

Think of it. If you know Jesus, you are a child of the almighty King of the universe! You are royalty in God’s kingdom!

“Now if we are children, then we are heirs–heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory” (Romans 8:17).

And what have we inherited? Countless blessings here on earth, and eternal bliss in heaven yet to come. That doesn’t mean faith in Jesus results in a utopian existence. This world is tainted by sin; we suffer the consequences. But one day we’ll share in Christ’s glory and the hardships endured here will seem inconsequential.

“You have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority” (Colossians 2:10).

If we’re feeling incomplete or empty, only Jesus can fill that void with peace and contentment. HE is everything we need: our Savior, Care-Giver, Guide, Source of peace, blessing, and contentment.

So! At the first symptom of an identity crisis, let’s access that “fullness in Christ” through gratitude and praise. We can thank God for creating each of us unique and special. We can praise him for our gifts and talents that bless others and fulfill us. We can revel in the privilege of living for the praise of his glory (Ephesians 1:12)!

And we can embrace this truth:

“Your real, new self…will not come as long as you are looking for it. It will come when you are looking for Him” (C. S. Lewis, Mere Christianity).

(photo credit: www.biokineticspt.com.)

*Names have been changed.

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The Long Reach of Influence

Posted in Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, Godly Character, Perseverance, Uncategorized, tagged Being a Person of Influence, Being an Example to Others, Encouragement, Faith, Godly Character, James Moffatt, Leaving a Legacy, Obedience, Perseverance, Positive Influence, Psalm 112:1-3 on March 3, 2014| 20 Comments »

“I even wash aluminum foil so I can use it again–if it’s not too messy,” joked a friend. “My son makes fun of me, but that’s what my mother did, and I just picked up the habit. Seems so wasteful to throw away a perfectly good piece of foil, just because it has a bit of goop on it.”

We were discussing the frugal habits passed down to us from our parents. They were children during the Great Depression, and learned to conserve, reuse, and make do. Now, eighty years later, the effects of that difficult time are still impacting many of us today.

Might the same effect occur in the spiritual realm? Might our spiritual habits not only impact those around us, but even generations to come?

An anonymous psalmist alluded to our long-reaching influence: “Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who finds great delight in his commands. His children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed…his righteousness endures forever” (Psalm 112:1-3).

James Moffatt (1870-1944), theologian and professor, also spoke poetically of our ongoing influence: “Death is never the last word in the life of a…man. When a man leaves this world, be he righteous or unrighteous, he leaves something in the world. He may leave something that will grow and spread like a cancer or a poison, or he may leave something like the fragrance of perfume or a blossom of beauty that permeates the atmosphere with blessing.”

Who has left “something like the fragrance of perfume or a blossom of beauty” in your life? I am surrounded by the examples of:

my grandparents’ perseverance
my father’s wisdom
my mother’s resiliency
a favorite teacher’s sense of humor
a choir director’s positive attitude

To name a few.

When I was a small child, our family’s pastor called each of us girls “Little Miss Sunshine.” I found myself trying to live up to the name. Now, decades later, I still feel the influence of his affirmation.

As a teenager I benefited greatly from the examples of various youth sponsors. One married couple in particular took me under their wings and mentored me. Their example of integrity, service, and caring, lived out in a loving home, remain with me to this day.

And so many more! We really are composites of the countless influences we’ve absorbed.

Now, it’s our turn to pass on a worthwhile legacy. We mustn’t give in to the notion that Generations X and Y will always find us irrelevant. One day they’ll realize older persons have the benefit of experience, and experience gives rise to wisdom. And whether we are present on that day or not, our example will be.

Most of what they absorb will not be the words we have spoken. They will remember our actions. Kids watch and learn–sometimes intentionally, but most of the time not.

We are the ones who need to be intentional, living out a legacy of character and faith, to be a perfume of blessing. If we do, the fragrance of our Christian maturity will permeate the atmosphere for years to come.

We can also be encouragers. Others will remember positive affirmations. At least one Little Miss Sunshine can attest to that.

* * * * * * * * * *

Please leave a comment below. I’d love to hear from you!

(Photo credits: www.jeaninemurk.com ; http://www.telegraph.co.uk ; http://www.inspiredwednesdays.blogspot.)

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Fearless Independence

Posted in God's Presence, God's Protection, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Ways, Humility, Obedience, Psalm 119:112, Psalm 121:3, Psalm 144:2, Psalm 25:9 on February 27, 2014| 21 Comments »

“Oh no, Elena, you don’t want that,” I say to our one-year old granddaughter. Obligingly she holds up to me a minuscule scrap of paper she’s found on the floor. Thanks to much practice with Cheerios, her thumb and forefinger can pick up the tiniest items.

Elena and I are on an excursion through the living room and dining room. From her jaunty steps, I can tell she’s loving the freedom to explore. And I’m glad to provide the watchful eye she needs.

No sooner do I slip the paper into my pocket than her little hands are grabbing for a cell phone on a side table. You wouldn’t think her arms are long enough to reach that far. Daddy says she has the wingspan of a pterodactyl.

“I’m sorry, Elena,” I tell her. “We’ll have to put that up here on the shelf. Mommy’s phone isn’t a toy.”

I think she’s heard that before. The removal of the phone doesn’t upset her; she just moves on. Quickly Elena toddles toward the living room fireplace where unlit candles stand in a decorative formation. Not for long. She grabs the chunky, center candle, clutches it to her chest, and proceeds on her way around the table.

“Let’s leave the candle here,” I say, gently prying it out of her fingers. “If you drop that on your toes, it will hurt.”

I’m surprised Elena doesn’t become upset. For a moment I think she’ll march on to other discoveries and leave the other candles in the fireplace. Instead, she wastes no time turning around and heading back. Soon there are five candles up on the table.

And so it goes as I tag along behind a toddler who knows very little, fears practically nothing, and desperately wants to be free and independent. We adults must be attentive, instructive, and protective.

You know what? There are times I’m not much more than a toddler in God’s family. I, too, know very little, lack a healthy fear of those things that could hurt me, and struggle against the desire to be free and make my own choices.

Good thing I have a Heavenly Father who is so attentive.

“He who watches over [me] will not slumber” (Psalm 121:3).

My Heavenly Father is instructive.

“He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way” (Psalm 25:9). Key word: humble. I have to be accepting of instruction and willing to apply it.

My God is also protective.

“He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge” (Psalm 144:2).

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Father, forgive me for the times I act like a toddler and take off on my own. Thank you for your constant, watchful presence, for those times you’ve grabbed things from my grasp because you knew they were not in my best interest. Thank you for instructing me through your word and through wise, godly people. Slowly but surely you have equipped me with the knowledge of your ways–ways that are good and right. Then you’ve patiently trained me to follow those ways. May my heart be set on keeping your decrees to the very end (Psalm 119:112)!

(Photo credit: http://www.pexel.com)

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Times of Refreshing

Posted in Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Grace, Uncategorized, tagged Acts 3:19, Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Grace on February 24, 2014| 4 Comments »

“Times of refreshing may come from the Lord,” Peter said (Acts 3:19b).

I wonder: What might those refreshing times look like?

If we think about those moments that restore us physically and emotionally, we’ll find clues to the spiritual refreshment God offers.

For example, do you feel renewed after…

…a good night’s sleep?

Jesus offers rest for our souls (Matthew 11:29-30)–rest that includes insulation against fear and worry.

…a tall, cool glass of water on a hot day?

Jesus offers “a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:13-14). He was speaking of an enhanced life–characterized by peace, joy, and his comforting presence. Finally, this enhanced life will turn to ecstasy once we’re transported to heaven.

…a delicious meal?

Just as food satisfies our stomachs, God’s Word satisfies our spirits. The Bible fills us with truths that strengthen and promises that revive.

…a heart-to-heart chat with a friend?

God actually designed us for symbiotic relationship. “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). But the uplift is augmented when we know Jesus and seek his wisdom–his ways–in our interactions.

Then consider the relationship we have with Jesus himself. I can’t imagine living without him, can you? Just a quick reminder that he is in control and has a plan can ease any anxiety. When I affirm he will supply my needs and those of family and friends, I can breathe easier. Knowing he is always with me is great comfort. When I avail myself of these benefits, he does indeed restore my soul (Psalm 23:3a).

…a hot shower?

Nothing is quite as restorative as washing away the grime of the day and allowing the pelting water to ease weary muscles.

Peter spoke clearly and bluntly, “Repent…turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out” (Acts 3:19a).

Why do we resist repenting–confessing and turning away from those things we know deep down aren’t good for us? We’re like little kids, grungy and itchy from playing in the dirt, and resisting a bath!

But if we do not repent, if our sins are not wiped out, the times of refreshing from the Lord cannot come. Here’s the whole of Acts 3:19, parts A and B together:

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

I do not want to be tired, thirsty, hungry, lonely, or dirty in my spirit. Not when God’s refreshing grace is always available for renewal, restoration, and replenishment.

* * * * * * * * * *

So here I am, Lord, coming to you with a repentant heart. I don’t want to live in some remote wasteland, removed from your presence! Thank you for your restoration that is complete and your provision of refreshing times that are continual. All day long you replenish my spirit! Even in the night you restore my soul. Your loving kindness and grace are boundless, and my spirit soars with praise!

(Photo credit: http://www.wikimedia.org)

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Nancy Ruegg

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