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With or Without?

Posted in Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, God's Promises, Intimacy with God, Seeking God, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , , , on April 24, 2025| 23 Comments »

Life is about choices, and there are just two ways to make them. We can trust our own wits, or we can put our faith in guidance from outside ourselves.

Guidance from outside might come from trusted family and friends, counselors, self-help books, and God. But only one source offers infallible wisdom every time: God.

The question becomes, will we live a life of faith with God [1], or will we choose to live without?

As a child I chose the former and never regretted it. Many of you have walked a similar path.

Sometimes, though, we get weary. Doubts creep in. Problems crop up like weeds and answers to life’s dilemmas don’t come as quickly as we’d like.

What then?

There are a number of faith-building actions you’re probably familiar with, including: praise and gratitude to God, scripture study, prayer, as well as spending time with mature and wise Christians.

You know what else is helpful? Studying the facets of faith. As we deepen our understanding of how faith works, we enhance our connection with God, increase our usefulness, and experience more contentment in life.

No doubt there are quite a few facets to our faith, but today we’ll briefly look at just eight.

FAITH IS:

Affirmation of What We Know

God would have us understand he is righteous, good, faithful, and compassionate [2].

He never forsakes those who seek him. He arms us with strength and keeps our way secure. God guides us along the right path, and surrounds us with his unfailing love [3].

In the book of Psalms alone you’ll find hundreds of such encouraging affirmations as these, highlighting who God is and the glorious things he does. It’s a delight-of-discovery to seek them out [4].

Faith grows depending on what it is fed.

–Unknown

And affirmation of God’s character is a beneficial first course.

Attentiveness

Faith is seeing light with your heart

when all your eyes see is darkness.

–Barbara Johnson

And where might we find that light? In the presence of God and in the encouragement and promises of scripture that fill our hearts with the light of hope [5].

Confidence

As we practice affirmation and attentiveness, we build confidence in the truth that God will do what is right when the time is right, though for now we may see no sign of it.

Courage

Confidence in God fuels our courage to trust without proof, to thank God in advance (even before there’s evidence of anything happening), and to step into the unknown.

Faith is taking the first step even when

you don’t see the whole staircase.

–Martin Luther King, Jr.

Empowerment

Be inspired by what Charles Spurgeon wrote decades ago:

Faith links me with divinity.

Faith clothes me with the power of God.

Faith engages on my side

the omnipotence of Jehovah.

Faith insures every attribute of God in my defense.

–Charles Spurgeon

With almighty God on our side, what have we to fear [6]?

Expectancy

And surely, such an attitude will contribute joyful up-timism [7] in our spirits.

Rest

Faith invades the muddle; it does not eliminate it.

Peace develops in the midst of chaos.

Harmony is achieved slowly, quietly, unobtrusively. . .

Such clarities result from courageous commitment to God.

–Eugene Peterson, Run with the Horses, 194-195

When we trust without reservation we find peace and rest.

Waiting

Without the discipline of wait-time, our faith would remain underdeveloped. This facet provides opportunity for strength of spirit to grow [8]. And we can take comfort from the knowledge that:

While we are waiting on God,

we are waiting with God.

–Lou Giglio

As we live life with him we’ll find:

  • Affirmation, attentiveness, and waiting will grow our faith.
  • Confidence, courage, and empowerment will result from our faith.
  • Expectancy and rest will flow from our faith.

I can’t imagine making any other choice than living life with God.

How about you?

[1] Life with God is precipitated by accepting Jesus’ glorious invitation into God’s family (John 1:12).

[2] Psalm 7:17; 13:6; 31:5; 51:1

[3] Psalm 9:10; 18:32; 23:3; 32:10

[4] See the post, https://nancyaruegg.com/2025/01/16/celebrating-god-through-the-psalms/

[5] Psalm 146:5

[6] Psalm 27:1

[7] See the post, https://nancyaruegg.com/2022/10/06/better-than-optimism/

[8] Isaiah 40:31

Image credits: http://www.canva.com; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.canva.com (2).

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Puzzling Proverbs

Posted in Bible Study, Decision-Making, Excellence, Godly Character, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , on August 1, 2024| 30 Comments »

Remember Peter Piper who picked a peck of pickled peppers? I wonder what he’d choose if he picked a peck of puzzling proverbs? And how many puzzling proverbs would Peter Piper pick?

Perhaps you’ve encountered some biblical proverbs that raised questions rather than supplied insight—at least at first reading. I certainly have.

Below are five examples. (Perhaps Peter Piper would pick these too!)

PUZZLING PROVERB #1

But how is instruction like a garland or jewelry?

When we receive the wise teaching of godly parents (and our Heavenly Father), our lives are crowned with the blessing and honor of maturity, integrity, and wisdom. We also radiate to others the beauty of godliness, like a chain of distinction around our necks [1].

I wonder too if this garland on the head alludes to the peace of mind that comes from living wisely, and the chain over the chest intimates joy of heart for those who follow biblical instruction.

PUZZLING PROVERB #2

But rest is necessary. So what’s the meaning here?

It’s a warning against apathy and a lack of responsibility, because it’s so easy to:

  • put off to tomorrow what we don’t feel like doing today
  • avoid certain tasks because they’re challenging
  • over-indulge in leisure and accomplish little

We’d do well to remember:

The enjoyment of leisure would be nothing if we only had leisure. It is the joy of work well done that enables us to [truly] enjoy rest.

— Elizabeth Elliot

PUZZLING PROVERB #3

“Banquet Still Life” by Abrahan van Beyeren (1620-1690)

Is this a summary of Aesop’s fable, “The Grasshopper and the Ants,” or might there be a spiritual lesson here?

Actually, it’s both. Yes, God would have us live responsibly and save for the future, but he’d also have us share from our resources and enjoy the blessing of generosity.

The wise also store up within their spirits the choice nourishment of God’s Word and the oil of divine influence, to be ready for the work God calls them to do [2].

PUZZLING PROVERB #4

How can it be part of God’s glory (his splendorous attributes) to conceal a matter, and why is it the glory of a king to seek answers?

One reason God doesn’t reveal everything to us is this: knowledge of all things would overwhelm and frustrate our finite minds.

Second, if God answered all our why questions (like “Why did So-and-So have to die? She was so young!”), it’s likely we still wouldn’t be satisfied. We’d want to suggest he accomplish his plans some other less painful way.  

But. Living with uncertainty does teach us endurance and trust as we wait for the day when all will be made clear.

On the other hand, we do well to prayerfully seek guidance for our decisions. This is especially true for those in authority. It’s to their credit to learn the facts of a matter, consider probable solutions in light of outcomes and impact on others, and apply wisdom [3].

PUZZLING PROVERB #5

But what about those saints who’ve exhibited great wisdom, yet have suffered adversity, ill health, and/or untimely, undeserved death?

Obviously, King Solomon is not suggesting that wisdom results in complete protection from difficulty. His point is, by following the wise ways of scripture, we can avoid many of the troubles and heartaches that fools bring upon themselves.

In addition, true wisdom leads us to seek truth. Truth leads to Christ, and he leads us to the way of salvation and eternal safety in heaven [4].

I wonder, do you suppose Peter Piper is wise enough to be guided by these once-puzzling, now-clarified proverbs?

Are we?

[1] John 15:10-11; 1 Samuel 2:30; https://biblestudycourses.org/proverbs-bible-study-courses-sect-1/proverbs-1-8-19-exploring-the-passage/ ; Proverbs 1:8-9 NLT

[2] Acts 20:35; Barnes Notes on the Bible for Proverbs 6:1-11; Matthew 25:1-13; Deuteronomy 8:3b

[3] John 13:7; Psalm 119:130; https://www.bibleref.com/Proverbs/25/Proverbs-25-2.

[4] Proverbs 2:3-5, 9-11; John 1:17b; John 14:6; Acts 4:12

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The Purest Patriotism

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God, Godly Character, Holiness, Independence Day, Obedience, Seeking God, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , on July 4, 2024| 29 Comments »

https://www.azquotes.com/author/28916-Charles_Carroll_of_Carrollton

Except for the formal language, the above quote sounds like something preached from an American pulpit last Sunday. But as you can guess from his portrait, Charles Carroll lived long ago; he was a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

He’s certainly not been alone in warning of trouble, should our citizens ignore God and his wise instruction for conduct. Throughout the decades since the founding of America, there have been patriots proclaiming a similar message.

For example:

John Adams

“Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other” [1].

—John Adams, second U.S. president

“All the . . . evils from which men suffer from vice, crime, ambition, injustice, oppression, slavery, and war, proceed from their despising or neglecting the precepts contained in the Bible [2].”

—Noah Webster, author of Webster’s Dictionary and numerous textbooks.

Noah Webster

“If the power of the Gospel is not felt throughout the length and breadth of the land – anarchy and misrule, degradation and misery, corruption and darkness, will reign without mitigation or end [3].”

—Daniel Webster, Secretary of State under Harrison, Tyler, and Fillmore. 

“Without God there is no virtue because there is no prompting of the conscience . . . without God there is a coarsening of the society; without God democracy will not and cannot long endure. . . . If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a Nation gone under [4].”

— Ronald Reagan, fortieth president of the United States.

Ronald Reagan

 And here we are in 2024, witnessing the results when such warnings against misrule, corruption, and vice are ignored.

  • “The rise in violent crime has become a national trend in the past few years as cities reach homicide rates not seen in decades [5].”
  • “The United States has done little to improve its battle against public-sector corruption in recent years, according to Transparency International, which measures experts’ perception of corruption around the world. In 2023, for the second year in a row, the U.S. ranks 24th out of 180 countries and territories” (tying with Barbados, and just ahead of Bhutan) [6].
  • Over 1 in 6 Americans, adults and teens alike, suffered a substance use disorder in 2022. . . . About 30 million had an alcohol use disorder, while 27 million had a drug use disorder — including about 6 million with an opioid use disorder [7].”

Spice addicts passed out on the pavement

And how is America to rectify such circumstances? Our sixteenth president, Abraham Lincoln shared wisdom still relevant for today:

“Intelligence, patriotism, Christianity, and a firm reliance on Him, who has never yet forsaken this favored land, are still competent to adjust in the best way, all our present difficulty [8].”

–Abraham Lincoln

Imagine if:

  •  The intelligence of best-practices was implemented against crime, drugs, homelessness and more—on a grand scale
  • Patriotic (instead of self-serving) leaders enacted the best policies to benefit the most people
  • Christian principles, proven to achieve the most profitable results (Psalm 18:30), were embraced and followed by a large majority
  • Our nation relied firmly upon God for guidance

Such outcomes are within our grasp if we take to heart the advice of these discerning leaders: 

“It is necessary for the welfare of the nation that men’s lives be based on the principles of the Bible. No man, educated or uneducated, can afford to be ignorant of the Bible [9].”

—Theodore Roosevelt, twenty-sixth U.S. president

“All must admit that the reception of the teachings of Christ results in the purest patriotism, in the most scrupulous fidelity to public trust, and in the best type of citizenship [10].”

—Grover Cleveland, twenty-second and twenty-fourth U.S. president

“The only means of establishing and perpetuating our republican form of government is the universal education of our youth in the principles of Christianity by means of the Bible [11].”

— Benjamin Rush, signer of the Declaration of Independence

*     *     *     *     *     *    *     *     *     *

I pray, Heavenly Father, we might experience a fifth Great Awakening in America! Pour out your refreshing, purifying Spirit, bringing the hope of Jesus to the millions who don’t know you and are living unaware of your loving care, peace, joy, help, and more.

For those of us who do know you, I pray we may become the purest patriots of YOUR kingdom, eager to serve you in a hurting world.

[1] https://www.azquotes.com/quote/1936?ref=christian-patriotic

[2] https://christianheritagefellowship.com/christian-quotes-from-the-founding-fathers-2/

[3] https://gracequotes.org/author-quote/daniel-webster/

[4]  https://lajuett.com/patriotic-religious-quotes.html#:~:text=%22I%20tremble%20for%20my%20country,His%20justice%20cannot%20sleep%20forever.%22&text=%22I%20have%20sworn%20upon%20the,over%20the%20mind%20of%20man.%22

[5] https://www.heritage.org/crime-and-justice/commentary/8-cities-help-explain-national-crime-wave

[6] https://thefulcrum.us/corruption/corruption-perception-index-2023-2667125422

[7]  https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2023-11-14/more-than-1-in-6-u-s-adults-teens-have-substance-use-disorder

[8]  https://lajuett.com/patriotic-religious-quotes.html#:~:text=%22I%20tremble%20for%20my%20country,His%20justice%20cannot%20sleep%20forever.%22&text=%22I%20have%20sworn%20upon%20the,over%20the%20mind%20of%20man.%22

[9] Ibid.

[10] Ibid.

[11] Ibid.

Art & photo credits: http://www.azquotes.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.picryl.com; http://www.flickr.com (2), photo of drug addicts by Tim Dennell; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.rawpixel.com.

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Hooray! / Oh Dear!

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Excellence, God's Faithfulness, God's Promises, Joy, Obedience, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , , , , on February 1, 2024| 51 Comments »

When our daughter Heather was a child, she would sometimes entertain herself and her little brother Jeremy with stories she’d create.

These weren’t ordinary stories, however. Each part of the story was to be followed by a response, such as HOORAY or OH DEAR. Jeremy would supply those. Heather told her story so the responses alternated.

For example:

One day Mrs. Brown said to her children, “Let’s go on a picnic!” (HOORAY!)

But while they were getting ready it started to rain. (OH DEAR!)

Mrs. Brown said, “Don’t worry, we’ll have a picnic in the family room!” (HOORAY!)

Billy Brown counted out apples for everyone. “Uh-oh!” he said. “We don’t have enough apples!” (OH DEAR!)

You get the idea.

Some of us have read Bible promises with the same HOORAY/OH DEAR responses. (Although we’d probably exchange HOORAY for HALLELUJAH!)

Take Deuteronomy 7:9, for example. We read, “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations . . .” And our response might be HALLELUJAH!

Then we read the second part: “. . . of those who love him and keep his commandments” (emphasis added). (OH DEAR.)

Here are two more examples:

“You will eat the good things of the land . . .” (HALLELUJAH!) “. . . if you are willing and obedient”–Isaiah 1:19. (OH DEAR.)

Or this assurance from Jesus: “You are my friends . . . ,” (HALLELUJAH!) “. . . if you do what I command”–John 15:14. (OH DEAR).

I can’t speak for you but often I’m glad to claim God’s promises, then struggle to comply with the prerequisite: God’s directives—even though I know that sinful, self-centered behaviors can get me into trouble and won’t produce long-term contentment.     

I so easily forget:

What blessing might Jesus have had in mind when he made that promise? Actually, the Bible lists a number of blessings tied to obedience. Here’s a starter-list of ten:

1. God’s watchful care. “The eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him” (Psalm 33:18).

2. Prosperity of soul. “Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord” (Proverbs 16:20).

3. Joy of heart. “The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart” (Psalm 19:8).

Jesus isn’t trying to make your life miserable by calling you to obey his word. He wants you to abide in his love and have fullness of joy! God doesn’t give us his word to keep us from life. He gives us his word so we can walk in abundance of life.

Melissa Kruger, Growing Together, 50

4. Freedom from shame. “Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees! Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands” (Psalm 119:5-6).

5. Freedom from fear. “Surely the righteous will never be shaken . . . They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord” (Psalm 112:6a, 8a).

6. Peace of mind. “Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (Psalm 119:165).

When we obey with a right heart from a place of love, we experience a joy and peace we’d never know otherwise.

Denise Hughes, Deeper Waters, 149.

7. Blessing upon our grandchildren. “The Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children—with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts” (Psalm 103:17-18).

8. Wisdom. “The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7b).

 9. Joy of knowing Jesus intimately. “The one who has My commands and keeps them is the one who loves Me. . . I also will love him and will reveal Myself to him” (John 14:21 HCSB).

If I obey Jesus Christ in the seemingly random circumstances of life, they become pinholes through which I see the face of God.

Oswald Chambers

10. Everything we need and then some. “Those who obey him have all they need . . . Those who obey the Lord lack nothing good” (Psalm 34:9 GNT).

When we yield in obedience to God’s voice he yields a harvest greater than we can imagine.

Denise Hughes, Deeper Waters, 149

We know it’s true: disobedience can lead to disaster. (OH DEAR!)

But even the short list of blessings listed above proves:

Obedience leads to abundance.

(HALLELUJAH–and thank you, Lord!)

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

O God, I praise you for your promises that assure me: when I follow your ways, all will be well. Give me understanding so I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart–moment by moment. May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees, so I won’t be put to shame!

Jeremiah 7:23; Psalm 119:34, 80

Photo credits: Steve Ruegg; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.freerangestock.com (Chad Madden); http://www.canva.com (2).

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The Radiance of God’s Glory

Posted in Christmas, God's Power, God's Wisdom, Jesus, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , , on December 7, 2023| 24 Comments »

Last week we embarked upon a reflection of one of the most important songs in the history of the Christian faith: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”

The lyrics beautifully weave together the Old and New Testaments, telling the story of our Messiah, “the chosen One”—the One who would come to deliver his people from the consequences of their sins and establish his kingdom forever [1].

Each verse of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” directs our spiritual eyes toward Christ’s return by remembering his first coming, and then expressing hope, anticipation, and yearning for his second coming [2].

Our needs here in the present are also addressed as we look to him–our Emmanuel (God with us), our Wisdom from on high, our great Lord of might, and more.

As noted last week, the unknown lyricist carefully based each stanza on scripture. You’ll find a number of references listed at the end of this post for further reflection.

This week we meditate on verses two and three [3]:

VERSE 2

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that you are the wisdom of God from on high, and have become for us wisdom. In you are hidden all the treasures of discernment and knowledge—more profitable than silver, yielding better returns than gold, and more precious than rubies [4].

Through you, God Almighty made the universe, and he appointed you heir of all things. Your wisdom is on display in the order of everything: the orbits of planets, the balance of ecosystems, the cycle of seasons, and more [5].

I praise you, Lord Jesus! You are the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being. You wisely, actively, and expertly sustain all things by your powerful word [6]!

The Milky Way Galaxy is just one of approximately 200 billion galaxies in the universe–a conservative estimate.

It measures about 100, 000 lights years in diameter. Our whole planetary system occupies one tiny spot of the galaxy.

During your earthly life you exemplified the epitome of wisdom in what you taught and how you lived.

As if that wasn’t enough, you provide wisdom to those who trust you as their Lord and Savior and simply ask.

You know exactly when to give, how to give, what to give, and what to withhold [7].

We can trust you to show us the best path to follow, so that we may enjoy the abundant life you offer [8].

VERSE 3

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that you are our Lord of might, sovereign over all. You are leading everything to the conclusion you ordained before time began, by the same power, wisdom, and love with which you made it. Nothing can be amiss [9].

You will not fail to do your pre-ordained, unerring part, which is ultimately the only part that matters [10].

I praise you that just as the people of Israel saw the radiance of your glory on Mount Sinai as Moses received the law, we too can see evidence of your majesty and splendor. In fact, it’s all around us in:

  • The wonders of your creation
  • The truths in scripture
  • The love and compassion evident in your generous blessings
  • The beauty of your attributes on display—your knowledge, wisdom, power, goodness, and more
  • The scriptural prophecies fulfilled; the promises kept
  • The miracle of your grace that meets us where you find us but doesn’t leave us where you found us [11]

Who among the gods is like you, Lord? Who is like you—majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?

Exodus 15:11 NIV

REFRAIN:

In all of this and more we REJOICE!

You have come to be with us, our Emmanuel. You support us with your perfect wisdom, omnipotent might, and more.

Hallelujah!

[1] Ace Collins, Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas, 127; Isaiah 59:20; John 1:40-49; Romans 6:23; Revelation 11:15

[2]  https://www.danielim.com/2017/12/19/the-hidden-theology-and-history-of-o-come-o-come-emmanuel/  

[3] From www.hymnary.org. The lyrics of this hymn vary depending on the source.

[4] 1 Corinthians 1:24, 30; Colossians 2:3; Proverbs 3:13-15

[5] Hebrews 1:2; Jeremiah 51:15

[6] Hebrews 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17

[7] Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 84.

[8] Proverbs 3:5-6

[9] Daniel 7:13-14. Last two sentences based on Julian of Norwich quote

[10] Based on Elisabeth Elliot quote

[11] Based on Anne LaMott quote

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Seven Surprising Things to Celebrate

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , on July 13, 2023| 58 Comments »

My quote-collecting hobby started with a gift over thirty years ago–a charming floral journal.

Now there are three volumes. Two binders include typed notes and quotes from many books I’ve read.*

The newest journal for quotations is an elegant shade of lavender, which, it turns out, is the perfect color for a such a collection, based on a Rudyard Kipling quote I came across recently:

He wrapped himself in quotations—

as a beggar would enfold himself in

the Purple of Emperors.

Rudyard Kipling

It’s true, many quotes do provide rich enhancement for our lives, succinctly bestowing wisdom, challenge, encouragement, or humor. Great impact can occur in a matter of moments.

For this post I’ve culled just such quotations, with the potential of changing our perspective on troublesome circumstances—quotes that might inspire us to even celebrate them.

For example:

Hurray for Difficulty! 

Because: “Great things never come from comfort zones”—Ben Francia.

And . . . “The secret is Christ in me; not me in a different set of circumstances”—Elisabeth Elliot.

Hurray for Discouragement! 

Because: “If you knock with a heavy heart, you shall yet sing with joy of spirit. Never be discouraged”—Charles Spurgeon.

And . . .  “Do not get discouraged—it may be the last key on the ring that opens the door”—Stanisfer.

Hurray for Failure!

Because: “Failure is the fertilizer that feeds success. It stinks and is unpleasant to handle but without it, success is unattainable”—Unknown.

And . . .  “When something goes wrong in your life, just yell, “Plot twist!” and move on—Author Molly Weis.

Hurray for Hiddenness!

Because: “When we know we are seen by the one who created praise itself and he is the one who gives us a word of affirmation—when he is the one who notices us pouring ourselves out in secret—we realize that this is what we craved all along . . . Being elbow deep in soapsuds and breakfast sausage grease looks and feels different when we know God sees us there”—Sara Hagerty (Unseen;51).

And . . . “How can I feel depressed by the smallness of my life when the most important Man in the universe died for me? . . . When the most important Man in the universe has always been thinking of me?”—Anne Graham Lotz (The Vision of His Glory; 13, 14).

Hurray for Inadequacy!

Because: “God is attracted to weakness. He can’t resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need him”—Jim Cymbala (quoted by Beth Moore in Praying God’s Word; 260).

And . . .  “Never mind your weakness; it is the very thing that qualifies you. Never mind your feelings of inadequacy; it is God’s work, not yours. Simply make yourself available, and let go of any need to impress others, or prove yourself worthy, or achieve ‘success.’ What matters is that God has chosen you, and that God claims you as his own”—Br. David Vryhof.

Hurray for Waiting!

Because: “If God makes you wait longer than you could wish, it is only to make the blessing doubly precious”—Andrew Murray.

And . . . “What we are waiting for is not as important as what happens to us while we are waiting. Trust the process”—Mandy Hale (quoted by Jean Wise in Christmas Crossroads; 53).

Do you see a theme here?

“The eternal substance of a thing never lies in the thing itself [like difficulty, discouragement, or failure]. It’s in the quality of our reaction to it.

“If in hard times we are kept from resentment held in silence, and filled with inner sweetness, that is what matters. The event that distressed us will pass from memory as a wind that passes and is gone. But what we were while the wind was blowing has eternal consequences”—A. Wetherell Johnson.

I pray the wisdom and encouragement shared in these quotes will give uplift to the quality of our reactions.

*A large collection has limited value without an index, so I’ve created those too—prompted by a touch of OCD, no doubt.

Art & photo credits: http://www.pixabay.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pickpic.com; http://www.wallpaperflare.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com.

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How to Gain Confidence

Posted in Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God's Strength, God's Wisdom, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , on November 10, 2022| 34 Comments »

Whitney sought a foothold and pulled herself up, then changed her hand grips and found another foothold above the previous one. Slowly she inched her way up the 40-foot climbing wall. Though only her first attempt, the four-year-old showed no fear.

Dad recorded the feat, and the video is available on YouTube.

We marvel that such a young child could climb with such confidence. But Whitney knew she was tethered to a rope held secure by the belayer, who also gave wise advice as she climbed. And Dad offered encouragement the whole way up and down.

When she touched ground again, Whitney’s broad smile indicated her delight in conquering the wall.

And the preschooler’s experience proves:

Security, wisdom, and encouragement

contribute to confidence. 

What held true during that preschooler’s rock-climb holds true for us in life. We need a strong Belayer to keep us secure, wise instruction to help us succeed, and inspiring encouragement to help us persevere.

Security

First, our Belayer is God himself. He holds us fast and will never let us go.[1]

And just as Whitney’s security did not depend on her gripping the rope, our security of help, strength, and heaven-to-come doesn’t originate with our grip on God, but his forever grip on us.[2] What we cannot do for ourselves, he has accomplished.[3]

Just as Whitney put her trust in the belayer, we must actively trust God to be our lifeline.

Wisdom

A short distance up the wall, Whitney glanced toward the floor. The belayer wisely advised, “Don’t look down, Whitney! Keep looking up!”

She didn’t look down until the belayer gave her instructions for the descent.

God also offers wise advice through his Word. He wants us to know:

  • True wisdom comes from him.
  • It begins with reverence and humility before God, to be in awe of his holiness, his power over all things–including life and death.
  • He gladly provides this gift to all who ask.
  • Whoever heeds his wisdom will dwell secure.[4]

Encouragement

Last, we have a Father who encourages us, just as Whitney’s dad encouraged her. Again, what we need is found in scripture—passages such as these that inspire hope:

  • “I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I shall not be shaken” (Psalm 16:8).
  • “The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress” (Psalm 46:11).
  • “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart” (Psalm 27:13-14).

Of course there are hundreds more, assuring us that:

When I allow fearful thoughts to whirl in my mind, I’m really asking, Is God going to see me through this?

How much better to affirm that God will hold me fast until he’s ready to take me home to heaven. He will provide the wisdom and guidance I need for what lies ahead, just as he has in the past. And His Word will continue to offer encouragement, to inspire and strengthen.

Truth leads to confidence.

What contributes to your confidence when facing challenging situations? Please share in the comment section below!

[1] Psalm 37:23-24

[2] https://www.seeyouinheaven.life/secure-forever-in-christ/

[3] Romans 8:3-4

[4] Proverbs 2:7; 1:7, James 1:5; Proverbs 1:33

Photo credits: http://www.youtube.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.flickr.com (Noah Berger); http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org.

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A Feast You Don’t Want to Miss

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , on June 23, 2022| 22 Comments »

Stuffed pork tenderloin, prepared by our son.

Our son became interested in cooking while attending university, and he’s been experimenting ever since. Now guests often say his fare is better than what many restaurants offer.

Father’s Day last Sunday was no exception. We enjoyed a sumptuous dinner off the grill: perfectly-seasoned, tender steaks; thick, golden, onion slices sprinkled with bleu cheese and slivered almonds; and polenta squares topped with lightly-sauced mushrooms.

The big surprise came skewered: Brussel sprouts alternated with radishes. I’d never eaten the latter cooked, but these were amazing—nothing like their raw flavor.

Our daughter-in-law creates memorable desserts. One time she constructed a rainbow cake—six layers of jewel-toned deliciousness under a cloud of butter cream frosting. All from scratch of course.

H.’s cake looked every bit as perfect as this one.

Now what if E. and H. invited new guests unfamiliar with the stellar meals these two can produce. And what if E. shared that the menu would include onions with bleu cheese and cooked radishes.

These unaware invitees might say, “Uh, no thanks, our schedule is really tight, plus we have other plans.” Later to themselves they’d likely comment, “E. and H. actually eat that stuff?! It sounds awful!”

But they’d miss out on a memorable meal.

God offers us gourmet cuisine too, but of a different variety.

“Open wide your mouth and I will fill it,” he says. “I would feed you with the finest of wheat; with honey from the rock I would satisfy you” (Psalm 81:10, 16).

God offers fine food for our souls, found first of all in the Bible. Some people believe the Book is out-of-touch and irrelevant, containing whole sections of unintelligible gibberish.

These folks are like those invited dinner guests, turning down a marvelous opportunity because the offerings sound unappealing. If they’d only come and try the dishes new to them, they’d be more than pleasantly surprised.

God’s soul food also includes wonderful surprises: useful wisdom, uplifting encouragement, fortifying support, and sweet comfort. We miss so much if we let a busy schedule and other interests interfere with the feeding of our souls.

A well-read Bible is a sign of a well-fed soul.

–Unknown

Just one of my father’s well-read Bibles.
Note the numerous and tiny comments he wrote in the margins.

To make time, we may have to give up something—like those long minutes on social media or watching TV. During my years as a teacher, making time meant getting up earlier than everyone else in the house. And the ten years I commuted a half-hour each way, the alarm sounded at 4:30 a.m.

But it was not a hardship; I just went to bed earlier. The feast each morning was well worth it. (For an example of one feast, you can read from an earlier post, “Down the Aisle of Your Years.” Scroll down to just below the James 1:17 image.)  

Another problem: The Bible looks like a huge buffet to some. They wonder where to start. Add all those puzzling cultural and historical references, and it’s tempting to give up before turning the first page and taking the first bite. What we may need are a few utensils.

Just like a shrimp fork or steak knife make it easier to eat those foods, certain tools help us consume God’s Word. Many are available online. For example, www.biblestudytools.com or www.studylight.org offer word definitions, cultural and historical background, commentaries, and more.

Bible study guides also help us dig into the sustenance the Bible has to offer. A few recommendations include:

  • NavPress LifeChange series, with each study focused on a book or two of the Bible. Luke is a good place to begin, with its many stories and teachings of Jesus.
  • LifeWay Press also produces worthwhile Bible studies, including an overview by Angie Smith, titled Seamless. Others I’ve enjoyed include: Believing God by Beth Moore and Discerning the Voice of God by Priscilla Shirer. You can’t go wrong with studies by these women.
  • Another LifeWay Press classic? Experiencing God by Henry T. Blackaby and Claude V. King. Millions of people have already benefited from this study.
  • Harper Christian Resources offers 40 Days through the Bible from Lysa Terkehurst and her team. They provide an overview by theme, including: identity, freedom, and fulfillment.

What if, when E. and H. invited dinner guests and shared what’s on the menu, I was there to add, “Oh, you’ve GOT to come. I’ve eaten at their house numerous times, and it’s always delicious!” Might they be more likely to come? Perhaps.

In the same vein, consider this post my affirmation of what God has to offer in His Word. I’m here to say, “You’ve GOT to read it, study it, digest it. I’ve dined at God’s table of truth countless times over the decades and have never been disappointed!”

What Bible study materials or methods have you found nourishing to your soul? Please share in the comment section below!

Art & photo credits: Nancy Ruegg; http://www.flickr.com (2); Nancy Ruegg; http://www.picryl.com; http://www.freebibleimages.org; http://www.canva.com.

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The Blissful Life

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Excellence, God's Delight, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Godly Character, Intimacy with God, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , on February 3, 2022| 11 Comments »

(What follows is an imaginary conversation between God and me as I contemplated the verses above.)

ME:

O God, at face value this proclamation excludes me from your presence. How unthinkable! I can’t imagine life without you actively involved, providing strength, wisdom, encouragement, and more.

But I haven’t led a blameless life, I haven’t always done what is right, nor kept my mouth from lies or insincerity. Any effort on my part to warrant access to your presence would fall horribly short of your standard.

However.  You understand what I’m made of; you know I’m just dust! You’ve provided the Way for me to enter your presence—even enjoy relationship with you—through your perfect and blameless Son.[1]

Jesus’ sacrifice in my place provided a figurative, pure white robe for me to wear, constructed from his uprightness, which is more than sufficient to cover all the stains of my sins.

It’s not my failures and wrongdoing that you see, but that radiant, spotless robe. “Thank you” seem such paltry words for such a precious gift![2]

And yet, even though I’ve been forgiven of all wrongs and no longer stand condemned, I dearly desire to be pure before you, including my thoughts, motives, and desires. 

I want to please you in appreciation for all you’ve done for me. In addition, a pure life of wisdom and goodness will allow me to experience the fullness of your blessings like peace and joy, untainted by any sin, guilt, or shame.[3]

How do I become pure, Father?

GOD:

(Put your name in the blanks.)

It pleases me greatly, __________, that this is your heart’s desire. Remember, just as my Spirit led you to Jesus, he is at work within you creating good.[4]

This is a joint effort, however. You strive toward purity while I strengthen you for the task and augment the outcome. With each step you take, the next one becomes easier as you grow in self-discipline.[5]

Let’s begin with your thought life. I inspired Paul to include eight adjectives that describe the kinds of thoughts that will cleanse the mind of negativity, discouragement, and temptation:

And the purest, most noble truth you can dwell on is my Word.

Within the covers of your Bible you find the guidance you need and the wherewithal to heed it, the encouragement to press on and the strength to do it, the comfort for every wound and the faith to embrace it.

And then pray, dear __________.  Seek the quality of purity as King David did when he asked, “Create in me a clean heart within me, O God” (Psalm 51:10).

Thus empowered by noble thoughts, scripture-truth, and heartfelt prayers, you’ll learn to love the sound of your feet walking away from things not meant for you[6] and reveling in the pure things that are.

Then–such wonderful blessings I’ve reserved for you! Remember what Jesus said in his Sermon on the Mount?

To see me is to enjoy intimate fellowship with me. You’ll sense my presence with you. Together we’ll enjoy my glory reflected in creation, in the events of your life, and in the lives of others.

I’ll open your eyes to see rare splendors of my glory.  From morning till night, __________, you’ll be praising my name and I will smile with delight.[7]

ME:

O Father, grow me in purity so I may present it as a love-gift back to you, and as a means of experiencing the blissful life with you that you so graciously offer.

In the powerful name of your Son Jesus I pray, AMEN.

[1] Psalm 103:14; 1 John 4:15, 2 Corinthians 5:21

[2] Isaiah 61:10;

[3] Romans 8:1; Romans 12:1-2; John 14:21; Proverbs 2:1-11; James 3:17

[4] Philippians 1:6, 2:13;

[5] 2 Timothy 2:22; 2 Corinthians 9:10; Galatians 5:22-23

[6] Based on quote, author unknown

[7] Isaiah 6:3; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Psalm 113:3; Psalm 147:11

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

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Truth or Trash?

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Strength, God's Wisdom, Success, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , on February 4, 2021| 42 Comments »

 

Attend a graduation ceremony, participate in a work-related seminar, or just join in a break room conversation, and you might hear one of these statements:

  1. God helps those who help themselves.
  2. If you can dream it, you can achieve it.
  3. Success = living life on your own terms.
  4. Believe in yourself.
  5. Follow your heart.
  6. You’ve got this.

 

Such statements are meant to encourage. But are they based on truth, or should a few be tossed in the trash?

Let’s consider:

 

Does God help those who help themselves?

Many people believe this idea comes from scripture. But the Bible teaches God helps those who recognize they can’t help themselves. The wisest course of action is to present each troubling situation to him in prayer before attempting any solution (1).

 

 

If I can dream it, is it a given I’ll able to achieve it?

Nowhere in the Bible are we told to pursue our dreams. Instead, God tells us to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace.

Not that God doesn’t place desires for the future on our hearts. He gladly helps us achieve all the good works He’s prepared in advance for us to do.

This is what we need to remember: “A God-given dream is never about position . . . it’s always about contribution.” And it’s through God-ordained contribution that we find satisfaction and fulfillment (2).

 

 

Is success a matter of living life on our own terms?

That kind of living most often leads to disappointment and dissatisfaction. Instead, God invites us to live the abundant life on his terms.

Some would say, “But God’s ways are so constrictive!” Actually, his truth provides freedom—freedom from the misery of sin and misguided choices. On the other hand, when we live the way he’s expertly designed for us, we enjoy a myriad of blessings (3).

 

 

Should we believe in ourselves?

That puts us in charge, which sounds appealing until you factor in our limited knowledge, imperfect judgment, and inadequate abilities. Due to these restrictions, stress and anxiety become constant companions while we try to keep control over our lives.

How much wiser to trust God who knows all things and can accomplish all things—including the best way to proceed through all our tomorrows.

 

 

Does it make good sense to follow our hearts?

No, our hearts are guided by feelings, desires, and emotions, which cannot always be trusted. Just ask Jennifer—Wife #2 of Jack. She believed his stories about self-centered, temperamental Wife #1. Jennifer told herself, Our marriage will be different. But she is now facing divorce herself as Jack’s eyes have wandered toward someone else.

No, we can’t just follow our hearts. We need the guidance of God’s perfect wisdom (4).

 

 

Have we got this?

Not really. Life can be turned upside down in a moment—bosses terminate employment, sure investments for retirement turn to ashes, doctors reveal devastating diagnoses. What then? I can’t imagine facing such hardships without God.

How much more encouraging to remember: he’s got this. Numerous experiences of others as well as my own have proven: God always sees us through with his perfect wisdom and almighty strength—whatever we face (5).

 

 

Notice how each of these statements in bold print revolves around us—our effort, our planning, our confidence—even though we’re prone to make mistakes and foolish choices. God is the only One with the wherewithal to achieve what’s best for us—100% of the time.

As it happens, all these common statements can be tossed in the trash.

So when someone says, “Believe in yourself ,”or “You’ve got this,” perhaps we could respond with a gentle nudge toward truth:

Actually, I’m eternally grateful that Someone much stronger and wiser than I am is in charge. Experience has taught me, I am much better off trusting in God than in myself.

 

Notes:

  1. Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 56:3; 2 Chronicles 14:11; https://www.christianity.com/wiki/christian-life/why-god-helps-those-who-help-themselves-is-presumed-to-be-biblical.html
  2. 1 Timothy 2:22; Ephesians 2:10; https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/women/why-god-doesn-t-necessarily-want-you-to-pursue-your-dreams.html
  3. Proverbs 12:15; John 8:32; see Alphabet of Joy for examples of such blessings
  4. Romans 11:33
  5. Philippians 4:19

 

Art & photo credits:  http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.geograph.org.uk; http://www.dailyveres.net; http://www.canva.com.

 

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