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One Strategy to Change Your Life

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged anxiety, Benefits of Praising God, Faith, Habit-stacking, Praising God, Prayer, Psalm 69:30, Worry on May 9, 2024| 23 Comments »

How would you finish this statement?

Nothing we do is more powerful or life-changing than _____________.

Some would suggest taking better care of ourselves, or setting goals that include a plan for completion, or training our minds to focus on the positive. And the argument could be made that all of these actions create beneficial influence in our lives.

But according to author Stormie Omartian, “nothing we do is more powerful or life-changing than praise”[1]. Others would likely agree with her, having cited numerous benefits themselves:

Prayers of adoration calm any fear, lift the spirit, and fill us with indescribable joy [2].

Praising God reduces our cares, levels our anxieties, and multiplies our blessings [3].

Continual praise is what changes the emotions, lifts the darkness, offers hope, frees the mood, and blesses God so that evil is driven out. It changes everything [4].

When we choose to practice adoration anyway in the midst of whatever we are feeling, our words lift us over that barrier and into a deeper connectedness with God [5].

But how could simple words produce such life-changing results? Psalm 69:30 offers a clue:

“I will praise the name of God with a song;

I will magnify him with thanksgiving” (ESV).

To magnify God is to make larger our view of him and his attributes, which lessens our view of the problems we face. The more often we focus on God, the more our faith thrives, and that in turn leads to less worry and fretting.

For example, see if these statements don’t boost your confidence in God for what you’re facing right now:

Praise God he is all-sufficient, all-knowing, and all-powerful. He has everything under control (Isaiah 55:11; Romans 11:33-36; 1 John 3:20b).

Praise God he is forever faithful, always working out his overall plan, always fulfilling his purpose (Lamentations 3:22-23; Job 42:2).

Praise God he is continually gracious and good, full of love and compassion (Psalm 145:8-9).

The longer we gaze at him, arrayed in such glorious attributes, the less insurmountable our problems become.

And with an unknown Puritan of old we too can affirm:

“When I think upon and converse with Thee, ten thousand delightful thoughts spring up, ten thousand sources of pleasure are unsealed, and ten thousand refreshing joys spread over my heart, crowding every moment with happiness” [6].

That is the power of praise.

But the enemy of our souls is well aware of this power. He’ll do everything he can to keep us from developing the habit of praise. What might help?

Habit-stacking. Have you heard of it? The practice involves adding a new habit to some action that’s already a fixed routine.

For example, we might add more praise to our days while making the bed in the morning, completing some household chores, commuting to and from work, walking from place to place, waiting for the microwave, chopping fruit or veggies.

What routines are established in your life? Which ones lend themselves to spending a few minutes praising God for who he is and what he’s done?

Another possibility for adding praise to our lives comes from C. S. Lewis: “Make every pleasure into a channel of adoration.” He suggested several ideas to get us started: a beautiful mountain valley, delicious food, a great book, or a piece of music [7].

And you know what happens as we praise God for these blessings?

One’s mind runs back up the sunbeam to the sun [8].

Isn’t that lovely imagery?

And is there any better place for our mind to be?

[1] Values for Life, 160.

[2] Kristine Brown (https://www.ibelieve.com/christian-living/prayers-of-adoration-to-fill-your-heart-wonder.html).

[3] Suzanne Dale Ezell, Values for Life, 160.

[4] Arnold Prater, Bonding with God, 78.

[5] Sara Hagerty, Unseen, 151.

[6] From The Valley of Vision, Puritan prayers and devotions compiled by Arthur Bennett, 1975.

[7] Quoted by Timothy Keller in Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, 197.

[8] C. S. Lewis, Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer, 89-90.

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A New Way of Faith

Posted in Faith, God, God's Power, God's Promises, Praise, Prayer, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged bible, Faith, God's Promises, Jesus, Prayer, Reading the Bible, Scripture reading on April 4, 2024| 43 Comments »

Several years ago I read these words written by a pastor: “When hard times come, say to yourself, ‘Now is the time to use my faith in a new way.’”

I had to wonder, What might that new way include? He didn’t say.

But while considering my own hard times I remembered a few new-to-me strategies God brought to my attention that did indeed strengthen my faith.

First, he led me to a new way to read scripture, recording any thoughts, insights, or prayers in a notebook. Writing helps slow my thinking so I can absorb more of what God would have me understand.

A few questions, prayerfully considered, might help our pens begin to write. For example:

God, what do you want me to understand and embrace from this passage/verse?
How would you desire this insight to impact my attitudes, beliefs, and/or actions going forward?
What does this passage teach me about you, as God the Father, Son, and/or Holy Spirit? How might this knowledge impact my current frame of mind?

During one time of upheaval I wrote the following, based on Psalm 62:5.

You are my hope, O God. Your plan is to prosper me, to help me grow in faith and Christian maturity. My eternal hope in you can help keep this present difficulty in perspective. After all, when compared to eternity, any hardship here on earth is brief. Someday I’ll live forever with you and the problems I’ve faced will seem insignificant in the light of heaven!

God also introduced me to a new way to pray: spend less time rehashing the problem, and more time rejoicing with gratitude. It’s the kind of praying Paul encouraged (Philippians 4:6-7):

We can thank God for each of his attributes at work on our behalf: his wisdom, power, goodness and more. We can also thank him for graciously upholding us, surrounding us with encouraging family and friends, and allowing us to sense his presence more palpably.

Consider also the positive impact on mind and spirit if we pray with anticipation, affirming God will act to fulfill his highest purpose. If we thank God that it will be so before it is so—that’s faith!*

Such a prayer might be:

I praise you, O God, for your power that can fulfill grand purpose even through (name the situation.) I praise you for being a creative God who solves problems in amazing, miraculous ways.

I thank you for being an involved God who takes an active, loving role in the lives of his children. I thank you that you are faithful and trustworthy, that when we commit our way to you and trust in you, you will act (Psalm 37:5)!

God also led me to a new way to embrace the promises, by acquiescing to his plan for fulfilling them.

For example, when a beloved fellow believer is diagnosed with cancer, our prayer is for a complete restoration, of course. We might site the promise of Psalm 41:3:

And sometimes God’s answer is yes. Even the doctors are surprised how quickly the patient recovers. Sometimes God’s answer is wait, as the patient endures radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. And sometimes the answer is no.

But isn’t that complete healing as well as the patient is taken home to heaven where no sickness exists?

Life-experience and a growing relationship with God teach us:

It is then we turn to promises like these—promises we can count on no matter what:

He will guide us along the right paths (Proverbs 3:5-6)
He will provide peace of heart (John 16:33)
He will bring good out of every situation (Romans 8:28)
His grace will see us through (2 Corinthians 12:9)
He will provide everything we need (Philippians 4:19)

These are among the promises to hold especially close.

And as we exercise such ways of faith presented above, they lead us to know God more, trust God more, and experience more of the spiritual blessings he longs to bestow.

And now, what new way of faith have you discovered that strengthens you during hard times? Please share in the Comments section below!

*Arnold Prater, Bonding with God, 81.

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When Faith Begins to Falter

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Promises, God's Refuge, Hope, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged Depression, Faith, Fear, Fighting Negative Emotions, spiritual warfare, Worry on April 20, 2023| 22 Comments »

Erin has prayed for years that her estranged son would come home.

Tricia can’t seem to shake a gray cloud of despondency, ever since her fiancé broke off their engagement.

Jack worked many extra hours to qualify for a prized promotion, but the boss’s unpleasant nephew was awarded the position instead.

Stacie has faced the loss of one job and a stressful transition to another.

Kate goes through the motions at church and even continues with her quiet time. But God seems to have distanced himself. She hasn’t sensed his presence for weeks.

Such circumstances can cause a downward spiral in our spirits, as debilitating emotions like frustration, anger, worry, and depression threaten to move in and take over. If we feed these emotions with negative thoughts, our faith in God begins to falter, and the devil’s lies begin to sound like truth:

So much time has passed; God is never going to answer your prayer.

Since bad things keep happening, it’s obvious God has abandoned you.

God doesn’t care about your life. Otherwise, why would he allow you to fail?

They say God offers love, peace, and joy, but none of it’s coming your way.

It looks like God’s forsaken you and to make matters worse, you don’t even know why.

Is it possible to fight against such feelings and fortify our faith? Oh, yes!

Our fight begins with truth—straight from God’s Word. We have to choose facts over feelings—just like a pilot does, as he flies through miles of thick clouds. In order to stay on course, he can’t trust what he feels is proper speed, direction, and altitude; he has to rely on the facts presented by his instruments.

So what scriptural truths might help us maintain our spiritual equilibrium? There are dozens, perhaps hundreds of passages that address our various needs with pinpoint perfection.

Other scriptures provide broad-sweeping truths that cover almost any situation. One example:

If we read the Bible with the intent of finding applicable truth for our circumstances, we won’t be disappointed.

“Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.”
Romans 15:4 NLT

Now the question becomes: Will we take God at his word and act upon it?

Hebrews 11 gives us a lineup of faith-stars who did just that–based their actions on faith, not feelings.

By faith Noah built an ark (v. 7). He didn’t allow feelings of inadequacy to stop him.

By faith Abraham left home with no notion of where he was going (v. 8). He didn’t allow fear of the unknown to deter him from following God’s direction.

By faith, the parents of Baby Moses hid him from Pharaoh. They didn’t allow fear of punishment to stop them. “They were not afraid of the king’s edict” (v. 23).

By faith the people of Israel marched around Jericho, even though it must have seemed a strange tactic (v. 30).

Bottom line: Faith is the exercise of our minds, based on the stable truth of God’s Word, in spite of what we might feel. Emotions are just the unreliable, fluctuating condition of our minds. [1]

On the other hand, God doesn’t ask us to ignore our feelings. Job, David, and the prophets honestly expressed frustration, fear, disappointment, and discouragement. But! They didn’t allow their emotions to cripple them. [2]

Also worth noting: None of these faithful people were perfect, yet God honored their faith. He doesn’t need perfect people to accomplish his purpose, just willing and faithful ones.

* * * * * * * * * *

Forgive me, Lord, for allowing feelings to impact my faith. Help me to fit every thought. emotion, and impulse into the structure of a Christ-shaped life.

Thank you for listening and offering encouragement as I confess my feelings. You even supply strength, peace, and hope.

And finally, I praise you that you preserve the faithful. I am secure in you. In fact, you, my all-powerful God, are security itself.

2 Corinthians 10:5, MSG; Psalm 10:17; Psalm 29:11; Psalm 31:23; Proverbs 18:10

Notes:

[1] J. Clarke, http://www.writtentreasures.org

[2] See Psalm 13 for a worthy example.

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(Revised and reblogged from February 9, 2015 while we enjoy a visit from our younger son.)

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Heartbeat of Love

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Promises, Joy, Renewing the Mind, Suffering, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged God's Comfort, Isaiah 49:13, Numbers 23:19, Psalm 94:19, Renewing the Mind, Suffering, Worry on March 30, 2023| 32 Comments »

Once again we find ourselves grieving for families, friends, and community of victims gunned down in another school shooting. Why does this madness continue? What makes a person choose to kill children?

And then there’s the war that drags on in Ukraine, causing death, devastation, and hardship. Why do we humans resort to such horror?

Across our nation, crime, homelessness, and drug addiction plague many of our cities. How has such deterioration been allowed to escalate and why haven’t proven solutions been implemented that help correct these plights?

Also producing distress and fear are the continual reports of terrorism, riots, fraud, lawlessness, disasters, and other disturbing events.

In addition, some of you are dealing with your own overwhelming problems caused by other people and not your fault.

When God chooses not to immediately intervene, what’s a person to do? An unidentified psalmist gave us the answer.But before we consider his plan-of-action, note how current his observations sound as he described evildoers. They:

Seem to be triumphing
Boast a great deal
Crush God’s people
Band together against the righteous
Bring misery to others with their decrees
Condemn the innocent to death [1]

Then just before slipping into depression, this poet wrote:

He would want us to know: God provides joy-filled comfort—not just reassuring consolation. The psalmist surely had in mind solace, help, support, cheer, and restoration of a sense of well-being—all facets of comfort.

Our part is to avail ourselves. How? By walking through the G. A. T. E:

1. G = Glory in biblical truth.

Find refuge in God and His infallible Word.

Read until His peace mounts a guard

around your mind and heart and soul.

Kay Arthur [2]

Among the many comforting truths found in scripture, here are a few of my favorites:

1 Chronicles 29:11-13—God is great and all-powerful, the ruler of all things.
Psalm 23:4—Our caring Shepherd never leaves us to fend for ourselves.
Psalm 46:1—He provides refuge, strength, and help.
Isaiah 25:1—We can count on His faithfulness because he’s been completely faithful in the past.
Romans 11:33-36—He is continually directing, sustaining, and upholding all things in his perfect wisdom–even in the face of tragedy.

2. A = Affirm God’s promises.

As you glory in biblical truth, keep alert for the promises. Ask yourself, “Has God already done this in my life?” Take comfort in the evidence of promises already fulfilled. For example, when has he:

Brought good out of difficult circumstances?
Guided you in the way you should go?
Delivered you out of trouble—physically, emotionally, and/or spiritually?
Granted peace in the midst of turmoil?
Provided beyond your expectations? [3]

And as you affirm the evidence of the past, be expectant for the future. What God promises, he will do [4].

3. T = Take joy in who God is.

He is a way-making, promise-keeping,

battle-winning, water-walking, storm-stilling,

Faithful Friend and Savior.
Kaitlyn Bouchillion [5]

Isn’t that delightful description? Let’s use it as a model for creating more uplifting characterization. I’ll get us started with:

He is a sin-forgiving, death-defying, hand-holding, strength-infusing, gift-giving Gracious Father.

Do you feel your heart filling with the comfort of gratitude, praise, and joy? Me too.

4. E = Enter into his presence with prayer.

Prayer crowns God with the honor and glory due His name,

and God crowns prayer with assurance and comfort.

The most praying souls are the most assured souls.
Thomas Brooks

Take comfort in knowing that:

God is not only here, he is near.
As we call out to him, he’s already answering.
God’s presence quiets the soul, calms the mind, and warms the heart [6].

Decades ago, researchers recorded the heartbeats of mothers and played the tapes in a hospital nursery. They discovered that the infants cried less, slept better, and even gained weight at a better rate.

Those recordings evidently brought comfort, allowing the babies to rest and even thrive.

As we walk through the G.A.T.E. God has provided, and Glory in biblical truth, Affirm his promises, Take joy in who he is, and Enter his presence with prayer, we will hear the comforting heartbeat of God’s love, even through the darkest night.

[1] Psalm 94:2, 4, 5, 20-21.

[2] His Imprint, My Expression, 289.

[3] Genesis 50:20; Psalm 32:8; 34:18; Isaiah 26:3; Ephesians 3:20.

[4] Numbers 23:19.

[5] Take Heart, edited by Grace P. Cho and Anna E. Rendell, 210.

[6] Psalm 145:18; Isaiah 65:24; Psalm 91:1-2.

Photo credits: http://www.flickr.com; http://www.commons.wikipedia.org; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (Bonnie Gruenberg).

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Inside Me

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Hope, Jesus, Joy, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged Blessings from God, Joy in God, Luke 11:28, Peace from God, Worry about the future on April 28, 2022| 36 Comments »

(in celebration of Poetry Month)

Inside us all exists a place

unique in space and size.

Just one thing can fill this space;

it’s nothing money buys.

Some people try to fill the void

with work and busy-ness.

They think that to be well-employed

will bring true happiness.

Others try a different route—

they seek recognition.

But all too soon they learn about

the failings of ambition.

But inside me there is no void—

it’s a marvelous sensation!

Inside me grows peace and joy,

defying explanation.

The future holds no fear for me,

sleepless nights I don’t endure.

There’s no need to fret continually,

because my destiny is secure.

Even when problems come my way,

a sense of joy pervades.

From an inner strength, fears are allayed,

and anxiety begins to fade.

This peace and joy inside me

come from one amazing Source.

It’s Jesus Christ—he’s the key,

the almighty, empowering force!

The Lord alone can fit that space;

nothing else will ever do.

While following his excellent ways,

I experience his blessings too!

Art & photo credits: http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.piqsels.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pixabay.com.

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No Matter

Posted in Blessings, Dreams, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged Difficult Times, Discouragement, God's Provision during Difficult Times, Prosperity of Soul, Worry on October 21, 2021| 33 Comments »

Fixate on current events and become anxious.

Consider the bleak projections for the future and become fearful.

Dwell on your own struggles and become discouraged.

Focus on personal inadequacies and become doubtful.

Mull over regrets and become guilt-ridden.

Contemplate fading dreams and become despondent.

Permit negativity free reign and become depressed.

How easy it is to drift away from the truths that provide prosperity of soul.

We must choose to remember the following.

NO MATTER what we see happening, no matter the fear beginning to build, we can affirm: “For every visible reason for terror, there is an invisible and immensely more powerful reason for trust.” [1]

O Lord, God of our ancestors,

you alone are the God who is in heaven.

You are ruler of all the kingdoms of the earth.

You are powerful and mighty;

no one can stand against you!

–2 Chronicles 20:6 NLT

NO MATTER that we may not know the way forward; we do know the loving, all-powerful, and trustworthy Way Maker who has promised:

NO MATTER that life is a struggle right now, God will use it for good. “There is coming a day [when] . . . We will have the glorious truth of our difficult ‘now’ laid out before us in a way that makes perfect sense, that will leave us panting a breathless ‘hallelujah’ for the process we’ve walked to get there.” [2]

“You do not realize now what I am doing,

but later you will understand.”

–John 13:7

NO MATTER how inadequate you feel because of failures, shortcomings, and doubts, you must remember: “Weakness . . . 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.” [3]

NO MATTER what you’ve done, “You no longer have to fear the consequences of your past, for your sovereign God promises that he will cause everything in your life to work together for your good and Christlikeness.” [4]

“Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven. . .

. . . Blessed is the one whose sin

the Lord will never count against them.”

–Romans 4:7-8

NO MATTER that your dreams may be fading; “the death of your dream [is] not the death of God’s dreams for [you].” [5]

NO MATTER that circumstances conspire to steal your joy, you can . . . “Begin to rejoice in the Lord and your bones will flourish like an herb, and your cheeks will glow with the bloom of health and freshness. Worry, fear, distrust, care-all are poisonous! Joy is balm and healing, and if you will but rejoice, God will give power.” [6]

“Do not be worried,

for the joy of the Lord

is your strength and your stronghold.”

Nehemiah 8:10 AMP

NO MATTER the uncertainties and challenges of life, we have an all-powerful, wise and caring Companion for the journey, who provides all we need to experience prosperity of soul.

Stanza #3 from “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” by Elisha A. Hoffman

[1] Elisabeth Elliot, These Bold Ashes, 11.

[2] F. Elaine Olson, Peace for the Journey, 101.

[3] Brother David Vryhof

[4] Kay Arthur, His Imprint, My Expression, 274 and Romans 8:28.

[5] Tasha June, Take Heart, 25.

[6] A. B. Simpson

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Against All Odds

Posted in Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Strength, Hope, Perseverance, Suffering, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged anxiety, Handling stress, James 1:2-4, Mariana Snailfish, Philippians 4:11-13, Philippians 4:6-7, Proverbs 12:25, Psalm 23:4, Psalm 27:1, Psalm 34:10 on September 23, 2021| 25 Comments »

More than 1,000 miles east of the Philippines lies the Mariana Trench, the deepest point of earth’s oceans—so deep it reaches into the earth farther than Mount Everest reaches into the sky. That’s more than 36,000 feet, or close to seven miles.

Not even today’s sophisticated submarines can submerge to that depth without imploding from the pressure of 15,000 pounds per square inch–the equivalent of a full-grown elephant standing on your big toe.

But in 2014 oceanographers constructed a cube-shaped basket, attached it to cables, and dropped it into the depths of the trench. The descent took four hours.

They left the basket in place for twenty-four hours, to gather data by camera and hopefully collect samples of life—if it existed at all in such inhospitable conditions.

At the end of twenty-four hours, they used acoustic signals to release the weights that had caused the basket to fall. With the help of flotation devices, it then rose to the surface. Against all odds, here is what the scientists found in the trap:

The new species of fish, about eleven inches long, received the name Mariana Snailfish.

Video revealed their activity in the depths—swimming, tail-swishing, foraging—what you’d expect from healthy fish. They appeared to be perfectly content, unfazed by the bone-crushing pressure of the water around them.

So how do they survive?

God has especially equipped them. For example, instead of bones snailfish skeletons are made of cartilage that can withstand pressure. These fish also produce certain fatty acids that help cell membranes stay flexible. Even at the molecular level, the muscles of the Mariana Snailfish contain certain enzymes that help them flourish at the bottom of the ocean.

In addition, scientists believe the following characteristics also contribute to their survival: big stomachs, transparent skin, thinner muscles, and incompletely closed skulls.

Just as the Mariana Snailfish can withstand extreme physical pressure, we can endure extreme mental, emotional and spiritual pressure—with God’s special equipping.

First, he’ll gladly help us develop resiliency—the ability to handle significant sources of stress. The snailfish manifests several characteristics in the physical realm that can be applied in the spiritual.

A Big Appetite

The large stomach reminds us that those who have a big appetite for God’s truth in the Bible also tend to be survivors; they’re strengthened to withstand the pressures of life.

Abraham Lincoln was just such a person, enduring great pressure from politicians, the press, and the burden of civil war. He had this to say about scripture:

Transparency

This quality reminds us to be transparent about our concerns–before God and a few good friends. Just telling someone else about our stresses has been proven by researchers to reduce anxiety—a truth scripture has taught all along.[1]

It’s worth noting that just as the Mariana Snailfish lives completely at peace in the midst of physical pressure, we can live completely at peace in the midst of emotional stress as God frees us from worry and trusted, grace-filled friends support and encourage.[2]

Flexibility

These fish are also examples of flexibility—deep down at the cellular level. You’ve probably heard the maxim, “Blessed are the flexible for they shall not be bent out of shape.” The flexible person will look to God for the adjustments needed to handle the pressures of life and search out his guidance for how to cope.

The great missionary to China, Hudson Taylor, would have us remember:

If we allow the stresses of life to accomplish the latter, they will not only be survivable, they will be accompanied by the deep contentment of nearness to God.[3]

Notes:

[1] Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

[2] James 1:2-4; Philippians 4:6-7; Proverbs 12:25

[3] Philippians 4:11-13; Psalm 23:4; Psalm 27:1

Sources:

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Peace Amidst the Noise

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Refuge, Hope, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged Fear, God's Love, God's Presence, Hebrews 13:5, Isaiah 26:3, Isaiah 41:10, Numbers 6:24-26, Philippians 4:19, Psalm 119:165, Psalm 119:50b, Worry on July 1, 2021| 36 Comments »

In the cool of morning two weeks ago, I sat on our deck before the sun had cleared the distant trees–much less those close by. Below, the creek bed of lush foliage loomed dark and still, but above me birds chattered happily while one lone cardinal out-sang them all. Thankfully the cicadas hadn’t started their ruckus yet.

From several blocks away, commuter traffic already rumbled, and high in the sky the occasional jet roared northward. Yet the serenity of my immediate surroundings superseded the extraneous noise.

And I sensed God saying to me:

Breathe in the stillness, in spite of traffic din and aircraft drone.

I’m referring to the serenity you feel in your spirit because of what you see around you: quiet trees unmoved by breeze, the tranquil creek bed, and the peaceful yard to the east where golden light silently presses against deep shadow—portraits of stillness in spite of the noise.

Be mindful that, as the sun faithfully turns darkness into day, my face shines faithfully upon you with the golden light of peace (1). I push back the shadows of worry and fear while the noise in the world clamors around you—political factions arguing against one another, loud voices contending for self-serving agendas, terrorists, criminals, and thugs wreaking havoc, and more (Philippians 4:6-7).

Learn from the birds and woodland creatures who find refuge in the thick foliage of bush and tree. You too can find refuge—in me. In fact, peace grows in direct proportion to time spent with me (2).

Picture yourself surrounded by my protective, calming presence and affirm:

I will never stop caring for you or supplying your every need (3)
I will never leave you to struggle alone (4)
I will never fail you, no matter how the future unfolds (5)

Focus the eyes of your spirit on such promises. Feel their truths calm your heart (6).

Even as the noise of this world grows louder because the end of time draws near, breathe in such peace-generating realities often. Let them usher you into my Presence, surround you with comfort, and encourage your soul (7).

I long for you to live within the tranquility and protection of my Presence.

* * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Father, for even wanting to be my shelter. Thank you for your loving care expressed in countless ways over the decades.

I know you are trustworthy. I praise you for your unfailing love that will see me through whatever the future holds. In addition, you will provide quiet refuge within my spirit where I can rest in you.

Help me keep focused on you, to live in the shelter of your love no matter the noise of the world.

(1 Peter 5:7; Psalm 9:10; Psalm 32:10;

Isaiah 26:3; Psalm 119:114)

Notes:

Numbers 6:24-26
Isaiah 26:3
Philippians 4:19
Isaiah 41:10
Hebrews 13:5c
Psalm 119:50b
Psalm 119:165

Photo credits: Nancy Ruegg (2), http://www.flickr.com; http://www.canva.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; www. heartlight.org.

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Get Ferocious!

Posted in Appreciation, Encouragement, Faith, Worry, tagged 1 Thessalonians 5:18, anxiety, Fear, Gratitude, Isaiah 41:10, Worry on October 29, 2020| 10 Comments »

If you happen to visit the Cincinnati Zoo tiger exhibit at just the right time, you’ll get to watch the enormous cats walk right past the observation glass. Then you’ll realize how massive they are, with heads the size of beach balls and paws the size of saucers. Our zoo’s Malayan species aren’t even the largest.

The Siberian tiger wins that distinction, growing to eleven feet from head to tail, and weighing as much as 660 pounds. Their canine teeth are longer than any other predator—up to three inches in length.

Experts say if a Siberian tiger and grizzly bear ever battled one another, the tiger would win. They are stronger, more muscular and agile, more active and aggressive than any other mammal. Tigers epitomize fierceness, intensity, strength, and power.

You may be wondering, why all the tiger talk? Because they can teach us a thing or two about getting ferocious ourselves. And what do we need to get ferocious about? Our fears. These days we have plenty to worry about:

The COVID death rate, perhaps to rise again during the winter months
The financial future of family and friends who’ve lost jobs or businesses
The future of those American cities plagued by violence
The upcoming election—likely contested—and its serious implications for the future of our nation
Troubling situations on the world scene

But how do we get ferocious against such fears? Here’s a strategy that might not readily come to mind: GRATITUDE.

To some that might seem silly. Gratitude sounds like a pretty weak strategy against fear. And who would choose the adjective ferocious to describe gratitude?

But Ann Voskamp firmly states from her own experience: “It is impossible to give thanks and simultaneously feel fear” (1). Why? Because thanksgiving teaches us to trust.

So how do we get ferocious with our gratitude? By fierce attentiveness throughout the day, pouncing enthusiastically on every small blessing that presents itself:

Sunbeams turning floorboards into burnished gold
Raindrops-become-rubies on a backyard bush

A close encounter with one of God’s creatures—a soul-delight if ever there was one
Discovering family members among the contacts of the day—members of the family of God, that is—and sharing a word of blessing

Those are examples of what we could call grizzly-bear-gratitude—fiercely seeking out moments of joy even in the midst of trouble or pain. I suppose we could compare such a search to a bear’s quest for honey, even amidst bee stings!

And then there’s ferocious-as-a-tiger gratitude—the toughest, most intense kind of gratitude there is, but the most impactful over fear. Are you ready to get really ferocious? Thank God for those troubling and painful situations.

“When we thank God for sorrowful intruders,

frustrating circumstances, or maddening relationships,

we are indicating to God that we trust him

to work out in our lives that which is best for us.”

–Valerie Bell (2)

When we exercise that kind of fierceness, fear will slink away.

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, O God, for giving us the wherewithal to battle fear. May we become ferocious fighters knowing that, even while traversing the darkest valley, you are working out your perfect purpose through it, and the other side is radiant with your glory.

(Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 23:4; Romans 8:28; L. B. Cowman (3)

Notes:

One Thousand Gifts, Zondervan, 2010, p. 203.
A Well-Tended Soul, Zondervan, 1996, p. 105.
Streams in the Desert, edited by Jim Reiman, Zondervan, 1997, March 14.

Photo credits: http://www.wikimedia.com (Paul Everett); http://www.wikimedia.org (Greg Hume); http://www.wikimedia.com (Rolph Dietrich Brecher); Nancy Ruegg; http://www.pxhere; http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.pixaby.com.

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Under/Over the Circumstances

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged anxiety, Dealing with worry, James 1:2-3, Philippians 4:6-7 on March 26, 2020| 31 Comments »

While perusing old photos, I came across this one, taken when our middle granddaughter was a toddler.

E. loved to be buried under those pillows, then explode out of them like a jack-in-the-box. She’d stand tall with arms stretched toward the ceiling, and look up at me with triumph—all while giggling with delight.

It occurred to me: what if all those pillows represented our fears about the coronavirus? Our worries for family and friends? Our anxiety about losing income? Our uncertainty of how long self-isolation might continue? Our apprehensions about the economy and the added debt we’re accruing?

Altogether these concerns may appear to be a heavy, insurmountable burden. But just like E. under her pillows, we can cast off our anxiety, stand tall, and look up in triumph.

How?

We can cast off worry with prayer and gratitude.

When the realization dawns that we’re buried in worry, our best tactic is to follow Paul’s instructions in Philippians 4:6-7. You’re probably familiar with these verses already. Now might be a good time for us to post them around the house–even memorize them:

Did you notice the word thanksgiving sandwiched in the middle there? Now why would God consider that important?

Because gratitude expresses trust in him. It’s an affirmation that God is always at work, bringing hope out of despair, joy out of sadness, and peace out of turmoil (1).

It’s not that gratitude takes away our difficulties, but it does transform us for the better in the midst of them (2).

We can stand tall in Christ’s strength.

Let’s admit it. We’re weak. But the omnipotent One of the universe is our Heavenly Father. And what has he promised? First, he never assigns an overload, and second, his strength equips us for all circumstances (3).

With such firm promises as those to bolster our confidence, we do possess the wherewithal to stand tall.

We can look up in faith.

Way up–to Jesus. And where does he sit? In the highest place, at the right hand of God (4).

He is:

Shepherd and Overseer of our souls (1 Peter 2:25)
Head over every power and authority (Colossians 2:10)
Ruler over all (Colossians 1:17)

Our circumstances can change overnight. One day we’re free to come and go as we please; the next day we’re self-isolating except to pick up necessities or handle emergencies.

But Jesus is our never-changing Hope. If we habitually make him our focal point, we’ll never walk in the darkness of ignorance and fear (5).

“Worry looks around but faith looks up.”

—Barbara Johnson (6)

Years ago, I heard Dr. Howard Hendricks (7) tell about this exchange:

He asked one of his students how he was doing, and the young man replied, “Well, under the circumstances, I suppose I’m doing alright.”

Dr. Hendrick’s response must have caught the student off-guard.

“Under the circumstances? What are you doing under there?”

Those words have stayed with me through the decades, reminding me that under the circumstances—buried beneath fear and apprehension—is not where I belong, as a believer in Jesus, and it’s not where I want to live either. I’m guessing you feel the same.

Let’s determine to put our energy into casting off our burdens with prayer and gratitude, standing tall in Christ’s strength, and looking up consistently with faith.

And then let’s add a flourish of joy—just like E. with her squeals and giggles as the pillows tumbled.

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, O God, for the joy of your comforting presence, your residing power enabling us to persevere, your hope-filled promises, and the joy that results from contemplating your magnificence. Thank you for providing the way to triumph through our Savior and your Son, Jesus. AMEN.

(Psalm 16:11; James 1:2-3; Psalm 119:162;

Psalm 92:4; Psalm 126:3, 1 Corinthians 15:57)

Notes:

John 15:7; Psalm 42:11; Psalm 126:5; 2 Thessalonians 3:16
David Vryhof, https://www.ssje.org/monasticwisdom/gratitude/
Psalm 55:22; 1 John 5:5; Philippians 4:13
Philippians 2:9; Hebrews 1:3
Hebrews 12:2; John 8:12
Joyful Journey Daybreak, Perpetual Calendar, May 20
Professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, author and speaker (1924-2013)

Art & photo credits: Nancy Ruegg; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.uihere.com.

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Under/Over the Circumstances

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