From the Inside Out

The Art of Living Well

March 2, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

“Living well [the Christian life] is both a discipline and an art,” wrote Sarah Young [1] .

The discipline-part was easy enough to affirm. From experience I know: spiritual practices do enhance the joy of relationship with my Heavenly Father—behaviors like Bible study, prayer, worship, giving, and more.

But what might the art of Christian living look like? For me that was more difficult to qualify.

I turned my thoughts to artists themselves. What actions impel them toward creating art that produces beauty and meaning, and pleases the eye?

(One of our son’s recent paintings)

That question spawned another. What might I learn about producing beauty and meaning in my life that pleases God and my soul?

The following truths presented themselves:

Artists are observant, paying attention to detail. They’re constantly learning; delighting in discovery.

Imagine studying a blade of grass. Take note of the rich green color and subtle striping, its graceful curve downward and sharp, pale-yellow point. Add crystal dew drops and the sight is indeed beautiful and pleasing.

“The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself”.
Henry Miller

But how often do we barrel through our days with no attentiveness, no reflection, no listening to God’s voice? In the middle of the bustling, niggling, babbling pother we miss God’s presence and other glorious gifts [2].

Lesson #1: The art of living well includes attentiveness to God’s beauty—in creation, in people, in words and deeds, in everything.

Artists spend time with inspiring people, including other artists.

And who is more inspiring than God?! He invites us to concentrate on staying close to him, the divine Artist [3].

Just think: God wants to spend quality time with us. He looks forward to our time together and misses us when we don’t show up. Quiet time isn’t meant to be a ritual; it’s meant to be a relationship [4].

Lesson #2: The art of living well includes the great privilege and pleasure of keeping company with God.

Artists are deep thinkers and curious about truth.

While the subject matter of the masterpiece, The Girl with a Pearl Earring is obvious enough for a child to understand, it will not yield its astonishing riches except to those who study the painting and reflect on Vermeer’s attention to light, shade, balance, color, and even the brush strokes. (Only two strokes created the pearl.)

The same is true for those of us who seek truth from God’s Word. Its basic message is clear enough for a child to understand [5]. But it will not yield its astonishing riches unless we study and reflect on its teachings (Proverbs 4:20-22).

Lesson #3: Open the treasury of the Bible and delight in its magnificent contents.

Artists are persistent and patient.

It took Georges Seurat two years to paint A Sunday on Le Grande Jatte—with tiny dots.

Leonardo da Vinci spent about four years to get the Mona Lisa just right.

Michelangelo lay on his back the better part of five years to create the 343 figures on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

Consider: “Even God does not make a glorious sunset in a moment. For several days He gathers the mist with which to build His beautiful palaces in the western sky”[6].

Lesson #4: Take joy in process and progress; stay the course and proceed steadily in the way God reveals (Psalm 119:1 MSG).

Artist, Robert Henri (1865-1929) observed:

“The object isn’t to make art, it’s to be in that wonderful state which makes art inevitable.”
Robert Henri

Such an applicable statement to the art of living well as a Christian! Our object isn’t to perform for God as much as it is to know him, love him, and desire to honor him–which makes a beautiful, God-honoring life inevitable.

[1] Sarah Young, Jesus Calling, 193.

[2] Leslie William, Night Wrestling, quoted in Refresh My Heart, compiled by Terri Gibbs, 124.

[3] Ibid.

[4] Joanna Weaver, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, 73.

[5] Jesus took the punishment we deserved for our wrongful behavior. When we confess our sins, believe in Jesus as our Savior, and accept him into our lives as Lord, he bestows many blessings now, and eternal life in heaven with him to come. Millions of children have responded with simple faith to these wonderful truths. I was one of them.

[6] L. B. Cowman, Streams in the Desert, p. 206.

Art & photo credits: J. Eric Ruegg; http://www.wikimedia.commons.org; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net; http://www.hippopx.com; http://www.wikimedia.commons.org (2); http://www.canva.com.

Posted in Excellence, Faith, Godly Character, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Patience, Perseverance, Renewing the Mind, Salvation, Seeking God, Uncategorized | Tagged Christian living, Psalm 119:1, Romans 12:1-2, Spiritual Practices | 25 Comments »

Enough Was Enough

February 23, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

“Can I come watch with you, Papa? There’s no school tomorrow.”

Papa nodded and motioned with his left hand for her to join him on the front porch. His right hand remained on the rifle across his lap. “Come on, Sugar. But you sit light, y’hear? Be ready. ‘Member what I told you?”

“Yessir. I’m to run inside but shut the door easy, and tell everybody to skedaddle to the creek, and run.”

“That’s my girl. No KKK Klan is going to mess with us, right? Now, recite for me Psalm 23 soft and slow. Such beautiful words and promises!”

Six-year-old Rosa settled herself in the rocker next to her grandfather, confident he would keep the family safe through the night. She began to recite the favorite psalm.

Violence never came to the McCauley home in Pine Level, Alabama, but throughout her growing up years there and then in Montgomery, Rosa endured the burden of racial injustice against blacks, including different (and deficient) schools and libraries, separate restaurants and water fountains.

One time a white boy shoved Rosa hard from behind. She was expected to endure such abuse without retaliation, but Rosa shoved back. The boy’s mother witnessed the incident and bellowed, “Who do you think you are?”

Rosa courageously replied, “I won’t be pushed around by your son or anyone else.” Then, in spite of her pounding heart, Rosa calmly turned and walked away. The mother let the matter lie.[1]

In 1932 at age nineteen, Rosa married Raymond Parks. He was an activist-member of the NAACP, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. A decade later, Rosa’s growing frustration with the status quo led her to join also. She eagerly learned about civil disobedience and served as secretary to the local and then state organization.

(NAACP Meeting in Montgomery, about 1947)

Along with many blacks in the South, Rosa suffered daily humiliation on the city bus, as she rode to and from work. Black passengers were required to pay their fare at the front, then get off and re-enter the bus through the back to sit in the rear. If the bus became crowded, black people had to give their seats to whites.

But on December 1, 1955, Rosa refused to relinquish her seat—not because she was physically exhausted, as some have said. No, she was tired of mistreatment because of the color of her skin.

Enough was enough.

“When that white driver waved his hand and ordered us up and out of our seats,” she later recalled, “I felt a determination cover my body like a quilt on a winter night.[2]

“God’s peace flooded my soul, and my fear melted away. All people were equal in the eyes of God, and I was going to live like the free person God created me to be. I refused to move.”[3]

Instantly Rosa felt infused with God’s strength. Police arrested her, put her in jail, and charged a $14 fine, but she remained composed through the ordeal. They released Rosa that evening.

As news of her arrest spread, more people—black and white—began to express indignation over the evil of segregation. Leaders in the NAACP decided to establish a boycott of the Montgomery bus company until the law was changed.

Supporters knew they would need God’s wisdom, strength, and perseverance. A prayer meeting was scheduled, and a young minister addressed the crowd: Martin Luther King, Jr.

“We must protest the law of the land because it violates God’s law,” he said. “But violence is not the answer. It is our duty to protest segregation, but we must do so with dignity and Christian love. Join me in praying that the radiant stars of love and brotherhood will soon shine over our great nation.”[4]

Boycott participants (which included blacks and whites) had to find alternate transportation. Many walked up to several miles to work and then home again. Churches helped to find rides for some. Others were given rides by coworkers—again, black and white.

Of course, opposition came quickly. False arrests, harassment, and even bombings occurred, yet the boycott continued. The bus company was losing thousands of dollars and began supporting integrated seating. City commissioners, however, would not back down.

Meanwhile, Rosa’s attorney, Fred D. Gray, took the case from Montgomery all the way to the Supreme Court. A year later, the regulation demanding black people to give up their bus seats to whites was declared unconstitutional.

That decision created a domino effect. If separation was wrong on buses, it was wrong in schools, restaurants, libraries, and elsewhere. Slowly and painfully, one segregation-law after another was abolished.

That pain would impact Raymond and Rosa. They had to leave Montgomery because of harassment and death threats. Rosa responded by spending long hours in prayer, after which “an intense calm swept over her.”[5]

The couple eventually settled in Detroit. From 1965-1988 Rosa worked for Michigan Congressman John Conyers. She remained active in the civil rights movement for sixty years and wrote several books.

Upon her death in 2005, then-Governor Bob Riley of Alabama said, “Rosa Parks will always be remembered as a courageous woman who quietly confronted injustice, and in so doing, changed a nation.”[6]

No doubt Rosa Parks would agree.

[1] https://www.christianity.com/church/church-history/church-history-for-kids/rosa-parks-and-the-bus-ride-that-changed-america-11635083.html

[2] https://www.journeywithjesus.net/Essays/20130401JJ.shtml

[3] https://canonjjohn.com/2021/10/23/heroes-of-the-faith-rosa-parks/

[4] https://www.christianity.com/church/church-history/church-history-for-kids/rosa-parks-and-the-bus-ride-that-changed-america-11635083.html

[5] https://www.journeywithjesus.net/Essays/20130401JJ.shtml, quoting from Jeanne Theoharis’ biography, The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks

[6] https://www.baptistpress.com/resource-library/news/civil-rights-pioneer-rosa-parks-dead-at-92-found-strength-in-scripture-church/

[7] Sinclair Ferguson quote from Grow in Grace, 33-34.

Other sources:

https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/rosa-parks-journey-as-a-civil-rights-icon

https://billofrightsinstitute.org/essays/rosa-parks-martin-luther-king-jr-and-the-montgomery-bus-boycott

Photo credits: http://www.flickr.com (Pat Henson); http://www.flickr.com; http://www.picryl.com; http://www.flickr.com; wwwflickr.com (Jim Forest); http://www.flickr.com; http://www.picryl.com; rawpixel.com.

Posted in Courage, Faith, God's Faithfulness, Godly Character, Heroes of the Faith, Uncategorized | Tagged Boldness, Courage, Montgomery Bus Boycott, Rosa Parks | 31 Comments »

Treasure of the Heart

February 16, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Imagine a lapidarist looking through her loupe and discovering the purist, whitest diamond she’s ever seen, cut with such precision that the stone sparkles with startling intensity. Can you imagine her, turning the stone this way and that, to marvel at the treasure?

In similar fashion, I invite you to marvel at and enjoy another treasure, a treasure of the heart–God’s love.

With the loupe of meditation, consider that God’s love is . . .

. . . unfathomable

“When we meditate on this amazing love, our souls may well faint for joy.”[1]

. . . unstoppable

“Every door that opens into a treasure of love shows another door into another treasury beyond. We need not fear that we shall ever come to the end of God’s goodness, or any experience for which he will have no blessing ready.”[2]

. . . unearned

“God loves us because of who he is, not because of who we are.”—Unknown

. . . unconditional

“When I begin the day drenched in [God’s secure love]—that centering awareness of my worth and connection to God—the day is different. I don’t have to scramble or hustle. Fear dissipates . . . because unconditional love changes everything.”[3]

. . . unwavering

“God’s steadfast love is chesed [in Hebrew], which means ‘kind, generous, loyal, and unfailing.’ Chesed means kindness on steroids.”[4]

. . . unfailing

“God’s goodness is near us. It is not a goodness far away, but God follows us with His goodness in whatever situation we are. He attaches Himself to us, He has made Himself close, that He might be near us in goodness.

“He is a father, and everywhere to maintain us. He is a husband, and everywhere to help. He is a friend, and everywhere to comfort and counsel. His love is a near love. He has taken upon Himself the closest kinds of relationships, so that we may never lack God and the evidences of His love.”[5]

. . . unlimited

“With both feet planted firmly on love, you’ll be able to take in with all Christians the extravagant dimensions of Christ’s love. Reach out and experience the breadth! Test its length! Plumb the depths! Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God.”[6]

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, Heavenly Father, for these facets of your lavish love that only begin to describe your devotion to us. I praise You that, out of your tender-hearted love, your foremost objective is always our best interest. And I praise you for guiding us on the path toward the abundant life you so desire to give us.

May the beauty and magnitude of your love sparkle with such intensity in our spirits that nothing will be able to discourage us.

1 John 3:1; Romans 8:28; Psalm 23:3; John 10:10

[1] Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 158.

[2] J. R. Miller, quoted in Seasons of the Lord by Herbert Lockyer, 199.

[3] Shauna Niequist, Present over Perfect, 205.

[4] Chrystal Evans Hurst, Kingdom Woman Devotional, 109.

[5] Richard Sibbes (1577-1635), Puritan theologian

[6] Ephesians 3:17-18 MSG

Art and photo credits: http://www.pexels.com (Plato Terentev); http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.rawpixel.com (2).

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Love, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized | Tagged 1 John 3:1, Ephesians 3:17-18, God's Love, Psalm 32:10, Psalm 36:7 | 21 Comments »

Less Exertion, More Immersion

February 9, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Perhaps like me, you remember these proverbs from your childhood:

If a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing right (Philip Stanhope).

Never leave till tomorrow what you can do today (Ben Franklin).

There is no substitute for hard work (Thomas Edison).

The Bible verses we learned in Sunday School seemed to support the same mindset of straining and striving:

“Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12).

“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Hebrews 12:1b).

“Fight the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12a).

And along the way some of us began to think:

I must strive to become more like Jesus.

I must strive against sin.

I must strive to meet all the expectations of attending church, having a consistent quiet time, treating others with kindness, and more.

It’s not that these goals are invalid. Scripture does encourage these behaviors, because they lead to peace and contentment.

The problem lies in striving on our own.

We can’t do it.

First, note that in 1 Timothy 6:12 (above) Paul didn’t say to fight the good fight of self-discipline. He said “fight the good fight of faith.”

How do we do that? By holding tightly to God our Savior–trusting that with the holding will come the enablement.

This clinging faith can be expressed as simply as Peter did when he was sinking in the crashing waves of the Sea of Galilee. He cried just three words: “Lord, save me!” And of course, Jesus did (Matthew 14:25-32).

God is more than ready to help us too:

I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand

And says to you, “Do not fear; I will help you.”

Isaiah 41:13 NIV

Second, consider the plants in a garden. Do they work hard to grow and produce vegetables or flowers? No, it’s just a natural, God-engineered result when roots reach deep into the soil for water and nutrients, and leaves reach up for the life-giving light of the sun.

What if we follow their example? What if we spent less energy on exertion-to-perform and more energy on immersion-in-relationship—relationship with our Heavenly Father?

Those “I-must-strive” statements, like those above, will be silenced because:

WE DON’T HAVE TO STRIVE TO BE LIKE JESUS; we naturally grow more like him as we learn about him, contemplate him, and worship him.

All of us, then, reflect the glory of the Lord with uncovered faces;

and that same glory, coming from the Lord, who is the Spirit,

transforms us into his likeness in an ever greater degree of glory.
2 Corinthians 3:18 GNT

WE DON’T HAVE TO STRUGGLE ALONE AGAINST SIN. As we draw near to God, he draws near to us (James 4:8). And the more we follow his ways and discover the wisdom behind his instructions, the more obedience becomes our joy, just as Jesus said:

If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love . . .

I have told you this so that my joy may be in you

and that your joy may be complete.
John 15:11-12 NIV

WE DON’T HAVE TO PUSH OURSELVES TO PERFORM 24-7; we can focus on pushing our roots deep into the love of God, enjoying his presence, and listening to his voice.

Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him.

Then your faith will grow strong.
Colossians 2:7 NLT

That’s the secret. Instead of exertion, we focus on immersion–in God’s Word, in gratitude and praise, and in affirmations of trust.

Out of that immersion will blossom the most beautiful reality:

“The life that intends to be wholly obedient,

wholly submissive, and wholly listening,

is astonishing in its completeness.

Its joys are ravishing, its peace profound,

its humility the deepest, its power world-shaking,

its love enveloping, its simplicity that of a trusting child.”

—Thomas Kelly

*the original language of Paul’s letters

Photo credits: http://www.picryl.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.freebibleimages.com; http://www.flickr.com (J-O Eriksson); http://www.commonswikimeida.org; http://www.flickr.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | 37 Comments »

Live in the Fast Lane!

February 2, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

I know—that’s not a title you expect to see on a blog for Jesus-followers or those curious about him. But please, hear (read) me out!

You see, the word fast has a number of meanings. The definition of “wild, reckless, and self-indulgent” is only one of them. Fast can also denote:

fixed, secure, and immovable as in “The rope held the boat fast to the dock.”
firmly loyal, as in “They became fast friends.”
completely and deeply, as in “She fell fast asleep.”

These definitions can give new meaning to” life in the fast lane,” when considered in the context of faith in Jesus:

Our future destinies are fast; they are fixed and secure
He is our fast, firmly loyal Friend now and forever
His love for us is fast—it’s complete and runs deep[1]

The Bible also includes other references to fast[2], instructing us to hold on to certain entities as we walk this lane/path of life. For example, we’re told to:

Hold fast to instruction and never let it go (Proverbs 4:13 NAB).
Stand firm in the faith (1 Corinthians 16:13 NIV)
Stand fast in the Lord (Philippians 4:1 ERV); that is, keep our relationship with the Lord firm (same verse, GWT).
Hold fast to that which is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21 NIV)
Hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory (Hebrews 3:6, NIV).
Hold fast to Christ’s name (Revelation 2:13 MSB)

And what are the results when life is lived in this fast lane with God?

The Bible tells us:

In other words, when we seek to follow the above directives and live in God’s fast lane, we’ll enjoy some high living!

What does that include?

The wise instruction of God’s Word, providing guidance, peace, comfort, and encouragement (Psalm 119:24, 28, 103; 111, 165)
Strong faith, protecting us from fear and anxiety (Philippians 4:6-7)
An intimate relationship with God, enjoying his unfailing kindness (Jeremiah 31:3)
Good thoughts that result in a continual feast of delight; good actions that result in blessing and fulfillment (Proverbs 15:15b, Psalm 107:9, Acts 20:35)
Confidence in the promise of heaven that fosters spiritual strength (2 Corinthians 4:16-17)
Reliance upon all that Christ is (indicated by his many names), contributing to our well-being, and the added joy of reflecting his radiance to others (Colossians 3:17; 2 Corinthians 2:15a)

In a nutshell, the benefits of life in this fast lane include: guidance, peace, comfort, encouragement, serenity, joy, contentment, delight, blessing, fulfillment, spiritual strength, a sense of well-being, purpose, and more. Whew!

That sounds like high living to me—of the heavenly sort!

The question is, will we choose to live in this fast lane?

* * * * * * * * * *

Lord God, thank you for making possible this thrilling journey—accompanied by you, led by you, loved by you, empowered by you, blessed by you. Keep me in your fast lane where I can live life to the fullest as you intended. And may others choose to join us.

[1] 1 Peter 1:3-5; John 15:12-15; Ephesians 3:17-19

[2] Some translations use synonyms such as firm and firmly

Art & photo credits: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net; http://www.canva.com (3); http://www.rawpixel.com.

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Provision, God's Strength, Hope, Intimacy with God, Jesus, Joy, Perseverance, Seeking God, Uncategorized | Tagged 1 Peter 1:3-5, Ephesians 3:17-19, John 15:12-15, Life with God, on the road of life with God | 29 Comments »

Truth to Triumph

January 26, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

Martin and Katherine Luther

In 1527, the plague approached Wittenberg, Germany, home of Martin and Katherine Luther. Some say it was this looming calamity that prompted Luther to write one of the great hymns of the church: “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” [1]

In fact, our congregation sang the ancient lyrics this past Sunday, although we were accompanied by keyboard, guitar, and drum—not organ. I was struck by the second line of the third verse:

“We will not fear, for God hath willed

His truth to triumph thro’ us.”

My mind wandered a bit. I wonder how many scriptural truths promise the result of triumph through us—verses like “My God will meet all your needs.”[2] There must be hundreds!

A bit of research revealed that Luther based his hymn on these scriptural truths from Psalm 46:

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (v. 1)

We will not fear though the earth give way (v. 2)

The Lord Almighty is with us; God is our fortress (v. 7)

Even though Luther and his family stayed in Wittenberg to care for the sick and dying, he wouldn’t have expected God to spare him or family members from the plague. Luther knew God doesn’t always intervene; he never promised heaven on earth.

But Luther understood: with God as our spiritual refuge, we find the comfort, strength, and support we need through the darkest valleys (Psalm 23).

God will lead us to triumph and provide victory over fear.

Another confidence-building scripture is tucked into the book of Nahum: “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him” (1:7).

If we put our minds to it, every one of us can attest to the truth of those statements, because the Lord is good to all. [3]

Consider a few ways God demonstrates goodness to his people, and see if examples from your own life don’t come to mind.

He draws us to himself, gifting us with eternal life as we believe in his Son Jesus [4]

He provides mentors and experiences that grow our faith as well as blessings that increase our joy [5]

He attentively cares for us and spares us from grave errors in judgment as we obey him [6]

He bestows comfort and security during difficult times and augments the delight of happy times [7]

His Word guides us in perfect wisdom day by day, year after year [8]

He empowers us to accomplish tasks we never could have completed on our own [9]

“It’s important to rehearse the lovely, rich truths and promises that remain when other things change. Keep telling these truths, in all their many-sided glory, and one day, walls already cracked will crumble and fall.”
Jim McGuiggan [10]

Picture your fears cracking, crumbling, and falling in a heap in response to the weight of God’s truths.

That’s a picture of triumph!

“We will not fear, for God hath willed

His truth to triumph thro’ us.”

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Father, for Your gracious invitation to leave our concerns with you and free ourselves of anxiety. As I affirm your truth, you provide fortitude and peace.

One day, the father of lies who provokes all fears WILL be defeated. As Martin Luther wrote, “One little word shall fell him!”[11] We eagerly look forward to that day.

(1 Peter 5:7; Philippians 4:6-7; Romans 16:20; Philippians 3:20)

Addendum: Martin Luther and his family were all spared during the plague of 1527.

[1] No copies of this hymn have been found before this date, but a growing number after, leading various scholars to support this theory (https://www.challies.com/articles/hyms-stories-a-mighty-fortress-is-our-god/).

[2] Philippians 4:19

[3] Psalm 145:9

[4] John 6:44; 3:16

[5] Proverbs 12:15; 18:15; Psalm 4:7

[6] Psalm 27:10 HCSB; 37:23-24

[7] Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 16:11

[8] Psalm 32:8. However, I must confess to not always being receptive.

[9] Philippians 4:13

[10] Quoted by Beth Moore in Praying God’s Word, 138.

[11] From the last line of verse three, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”

Art & Photo Credits: http://www.worldhistory.org; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.canva.com.

Posted in Blessings, Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Promises, God's Refuge, Uncategorized | Tagged A Mighty Fortress Is Our God, Fighting Fear, Martin Luther, Nahum 1:7, Psalm 46:1, Psalm 46:2, Psalm 46:7 | 35 Comments »

Objects of God’s Delight

January 19, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

(An imaginary conversation between God and me)

ME:

O God, each time I come across a scripture that affirms Your delight in me, my heart responds with amazement. I fall far short of the excellence I’d like to present to You—even after all these years as Your child. How is it possible You could still delight in me?

GOD:

Think about this: How do others know that you take delight in your children and grandchildren? You spend time with them, correct? You listen to them, praise their efforts, and encourage them. You give them gifts. You forgive them.

I do all these things for you and more, proving my delight through my actions. When you see Me clearly—my faithfulness, goodness, and love in action for you—you’ll see yourself more clearly–one who is cherished and brings me pleasure.

Keep reminding yourself, you don’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. [1]

Just this morning you took great delight at the get-together of moms at church. In fact, you smiled from ear to ear and laughed for joy over children you didn’t even know:

the baby who waved with gusto at everyone who passed by
the little boy who wanted you to play catch with him
the three-year-old conversationalist who explained how hourglass egg-timers work

Granted, not one of these little ones is perfect, but each is perfectly wonderful—and so is every other child of Mine, including you.

I also take great pleasure in watching My children grow, just as you’ve delighted in the development of your children and grandchildren—even your students when you taught school.

ME:

It’s true—each milestone is celebrated with joy, especially those that required effort. It stands to reason that each marker of our spiritual growth makes You smile with joy—markers that include: establishing a quiet time (because You desire relationship with us), learning to be patient and self-controlled as well as manifesting the other fruit of the Spirit, practicing Your presence throughout the day, and turning to You in faith for the strength, guidance, and help we need.[2]

GOD:

Absolutely! I also delight to see:

The development and use of the talents I’ve given you, just as you celebrate the growing abilities of the children around you.
The joy you experience in the company of family or friends, just as you enjoy watching children play happily together. Their pleasure becomes your pleasure; the same is true for Me.
The expression of gratitude for My blessings and favors, just as gratitude from your children warms your hearts and makes you smile.
The perseverance to develop spiritual maturity, just as you’ve taken joy in the skills mastered by your children, grandchildren, and students through the years.

Many think of Me as far removed, gloomy and mightily displeased with everything. And while it’s true that I hate sin, because of My Son, Jesus Christ, all believing souls are objects of My delight.[3]

Take that to heart, precious child.

ME:

I pray, Heavenly Father, that my choices going forward might bring You increasing delight. And may I rest contentedly, even joyfully, in the pleasure You already take in me.

[1] ______, Values for Life, Walnut Grove Press, 2004, 131).

[2] Revelation 3:20; Galatians 5:22-23; Psalm 16:11; Hebrews 11:6

[3] A. W. Tozer, The Knowledge of the Holy, Harper & Brothers, 1961, 107-108.

Photo credits: http://www.canva.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.stocksnap.io.

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Delight, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized | Tagged God's Delight in Us, Psalm 147:11, Psalm 149:4, Revelation 3:20 | 21 Comments »

Footsteps to the Horizon

January 12, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

“This is your last chance!” shouted the leader of Columbian guerillas. “Join us, convince the Motilone to join us, and you will live. Otherwise, you are a dead man.”

The surrounding group of rebels aimed their guns at American missionary Bruce Olson. He fully expected to see Jesus in the next moment.

Of course, this was not the first time Bruce faced death during his twenty-seven years with the fierce Motilone tribe.

No sooner had he arrived in 1961, than Bruce was surrounded by tribal warriors who shot him in the leg with an arrow and took him captive. The guides who had led him to their village fled.

Bruce was just nineteen years old and had received no backing from any mission organization, because of his age and lack of training. But he’d seen a picture of the remote Columbian tribe and felt drawn to share with them about Jesus.

His own life had been wonderfully transformed by Christ, and Bruce desired that for others—especially for this people-group who knew nothing about Jesus.

(The Motilone live in northeastern Colombia and western Venezuela.)

Some would say, “Bruce must have misunderstood God’s plan. Otherwise, why would he experience calamity the minute he arrived?”

But look what God did.

First, the Motilone chief forbade the warriors to kill Bruce. Later he and his men would admit there was no reason to spare him; they just did.

The next day the chief’s son, Bobarishora, brought worms for Bruce to eat, which thankfully tasted like liquified bacon and eggs. In spite of the language barrier, Bruce and Bobarishora began to build a friendship.

The leg wound became infected. Bruce escaped and returned to civilization for treatment. But upon regaining strength, the young missionary went back to the tribe—only to contract dysentery and have to seek medical help again. He almost died in the effort.

For his third attempt to settle with the Motilone, Bruce brought medical supplies. The witch doctor took great interest in their healing powers and learned from Bruce how to use them. With Bobarishora and the witch doctor as allies, Bruce began to achieve acceptance in the tribe.

Over the next four years he learned the Motilone language and set about translating the New Testament into their language, putting to use his knowledge of Hebrew, Greek, and Latin.

Bobarishora, or “Bobby,” became the first to accept Jesus into his life. At a festival not long after, Bobby sang about the jungle trail of life, a metaphor familiar to the Motilone. Bobby explained he’d seen the footprints of God.

“There are many trails in the jungles,” he said. “But there is one trail that goes to the horizon.” (Bobby was referring to heaven.) “Christ came to walk that trail so we can walk in his footsteps.”[1]

It wasn’t long before many tribespeople had become Jesus-followers. They began sending their own missionaries to neighboring tribes to tell them about Christ.

The Motilone wanted to learn how to read and write, so Bruce started a school. He also set up a medical clinic, and led the effort to grow cacao, to help support the tribe.

(Cutting a cacao pod from the tree.)

Over time the proceeds helped finance 48 schools, more than 20 health clinics, 12 farming cooperatives, and numerous scholarships for Motilone students to attend high school and university.[2]

Then came the day in 1988 when 15 Communist guerillas kidnapped Bruce with the plan of forcing his cooperation, and convincing the Motilone to do so also. Bruce spent several months chained to a palm tree and became very ill. Somehow he survived.

One of the leaders asked Bruce to teach them how to read and write. They brought a book to Bruce, not knowing it was a New Testament. Bruce used it to teach the men to read, and many became Jesus followers.

Bruce’s health continued to deteriorate. The guerillas decided to give him a blood transfusion.

“I will give him some of my blood,” one rebel announced.

The next day he told Bruce that when he was a young child, the Motilone had given food to his widowed mother for three years, never asking for anything in return. “You saved my life,” he said, “Now, I save your life.”[3]

Months passed. No amount of mistreatment had convinced Bruce to help their cause.

One day a group stood him against a tree, announced his execution, and aimed their guns at him. But when they fired, Bruce remained unharmed. They’d shot blanks at him, expecting this final test to break him.

Sometime later one of the leaders told Bruce that capturing him had been a mistake. He hoped that Bruce could forgive them.

He promised the rebels would leave the Motilone alone, and Bruce could continue his work. After nine months of captivity, they released him.

As a result of Bruce’s long devotion to the tribe, more than 400 Motilone have graduated from high school, and over 30 from university, trained as physicians, accountants, translators, forest rangers, agriculturalists, and more. Still others have received technical training.

All have returned to their jungle communities to share their expertise within the tribe.

As of 2018, more than 70% of the Motilone tribe are following in Christ’s footsteps to the horizon.[4]

As for Bruce Olson, now 80, you’ll find him still working with the people of 18 different tribes and languages of the jungles.[5]

Notes:

[1] https://missionexus.org/an-interview-with-bruce-olson/

[2] https://www.tms-global.org/story-details/bruchko

[3] Ibid

[4] Ibid

[5] https://www.godreports.com/2021/02/legendary-american-missionary-ate-maggots-wore-a-flea-collar-to-survive/

Additional Sources:

https://www.bruceolson.com/en/index.html

https://christianlifemissions.org/project/bruce-olson-ministries/

https://www.theopedia.com/bruce-olson

Photo credits: http://www.picryl.com; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.commons.wikipedia.org (2).

Posted in Courage, Excellence, God's Faithfulness, God's Power, God's Protection, God's Provision, Heroes of the Faith, Perseverance, Service, Suffering, Uncategorized, Waiting on God | Tagged Bruce Olson, Colombia, missionary, Motilone tribe | 44 Comments »

Wild Amazement

January 5, 2023 by Nancy Ruegg

“As followers of Jesus we have the opportunity

to live each day in wild amazement of God.”

–Margaret Feinberg[1]

Doesn’t that sound like a glorious way to live? Amazement can be a doorway to joy.

Even secular research has discovered positive effects for those who report feeling awe on a regular basis:

Lower markers of inflammation
Refreshed energy
Less anxiety
Enhanced sense of well being[2]

Now we know why God inspired King David to write: “Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles” (Psalm 105:5a). God doesn’t need our adulation; we need the recalibration that wild amazement provides.

What follows are categories of wonder and personal examples for each month of 2023. Perhaps this list will trigger memories of your own moments of wild amazement.

January—the wonder of nature

We woke up to a light snowfall that continued all day. At sundown Steve and I stood at the back window to enjoy one last time the white landscape and frosted trees when a fox trotted by, his plush tail extended gracefully behind him. Dark motion against pale stillness.

February—the wonder of friendship

Old friends since college visited for three heavenly days. The reminiscing, heart-to-heart conversation and much laughter strengthened the long-held connection between us.

March—the wonder of kindness

My cousin sent a package of family heirlooms she discovered while spring cleaning, items she thought I’d like to have. Imagine my delight to receive several handkerchiefs with tatted trim, created by our grandmother, and a needle case stitched by our great-grandmother. Such precious things to pass on to my granddaughters.

(I should have ironed them before snapping a pic!)

April—the wonder of family

When all thirteen of us gather, the house is filled with multiple, simultaneous conversations and much laughter. Beautiful noise!

May—the wonder of participation

What a happy privilege to speak hope and encouragement into the lives of others—sometimes to a group in a formal setting, sometimes to individuals over coffee-shop lattës, sometimes to a stranger.

June—the wonder of life

The daughter-in-law of dear friends posted the ultrasound image of their son, due in December. “He’s perfect,” the doctor assured them. Such glorious news after they’ve endured three miscarriages. I can only imagine their pain and sorrow, yet their faith has remained strong. (Perfect little Cam was born December first.)

July—the wonder of giving

My husband frequently blesses delivery people, wait staff, etc. with generous tips. One waitress puddled up with gratitude. After heart surgery she was behind on her bills; we had the joyful privilege of assisting her.

August—the wonder of imagination

Our five-year old granddaughter drew a picture of herself getting scratched on the leg while hiking a trail with her parents. However, the illustration didn’t depict a bush causing injury; it was an ogre.

September—the wonder of rest

Quiet time on our deck provides supreme restoration, especially when a light breeze keeps me cool and cheerful cardinals add a soundtrack. Beginning this time of year, our black walnut tree provides flashing, golden leaf showers. Mesmerizing.

(These are maple leaves, but they reflect the same golden glow as our black walnut.)

October—the wonder of miracles

Our pastor-son and his wife have served their current church for four and a half years. When they arrived, the church faced financial difficulty. But God began his good work among the people, giving increased, and they even established a savings account. Recently a dire need developed and $85,000 was required. Guess how much was in that account?!

November—the wonder of gratitude

Just this month alone, I celebrated God’s goodness for tasks completed in spite of little time, prayers answered, blessings not asked for, numerous moments of delight, laughter (especially that of our grandchildren), thoughtfulness of others, and memories of years past. “Joy doesn’t cause us to be grateful,” wrote Brother David Steindl-Rast, “joy is born out of our gratitude.”

December—the wonder of Jesus

He is our Savior and King, our Wonderful Counselor and Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. These titles only begin to express his identity and attributes.

God is infinite, his marvelous works are infinite. What moments of wonder have come to your mind? Or perhaps you’ve thought of a whole new category. Please share in the comment section below.

Let’s begin this new year by celebrating our wild amazement of God!

Notes:

[1] Wonderstruck, Worthy Publishing Group, 2012, 173.

[2] https://guideposts.org/angels-and-miracles/miracles/gods-grace/why-a-sense-of-wonder-is-important/ and https://hbr.org/2021/08/why-you-need-to-protect-your-sense-of-wonder-especially-now

Photo credits: http://www.pxhere; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.commons wikimedia.org; http://www.pxhere; http://www.canva.com.

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, Joy, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized | Tagged Amazement, Celebrating God, Joy, Psalm 105:5, Wonder | 45 Comments »

All Wrapped Up

December 30, 2022 by Nancy Ruegg

Steve and I have been reveling in the presence of our happy family the past week. May you and yours also be creating glorious memories to enjoy for years to come.

I’ll be back with a new post next Thursday, January 5!

Photo credit: http://www.canva.com

Posted in Uncategorized | 24 Comments »

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From the Inside Out

Impressions Becoming Expressions

The Art of Living Well

Enough Was Enough

Treasure of the Heart

Less Exertion, More Immersion

Live in the Fast Lane!

Truth to Triumph

Objects of God’s Delight

Footsteps to the Horizon

Wild Amazement

All Wrapped Up

Nancy Ruegg

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