From the Inside Out

When Divinity Embraced Humanity

December 21, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

The Word, Jesus, became human and lived among us (1).

Think of it:

He is “the image of the invisible God” (2), and

“The radiance of his glory (3),

The Creator of the universe (4), and

The Sustainer of all things (5).

He is “before all things, and in him all things hold together” (6).

He is glorious in power and grandeur because

God was pleased to have all of his divine essence inhabit him (7).

Who can fathom such transcendence?

The Word dwelled in the perfection and beauty of heaven (8),

In an atmosphere of tranquil peace and effervescent joy,

Where every longing of the soul is fulfilled,

Where angel-songs waft on the breeze.

Who can fathom such splendor?

Then, The Word humbled himself beyond comprehension (9).

The Infinite One entered time and space.

He submitted himself to our realm of hurt and greed and struggle.

He even accepted the confines of a helpless infant—

Unable to feed himself, dress himself, or speak.

For a time, the Word relinquished the privilege of words.

And the most important event of all history took place in a stable-cave, where

God’s infinite love was wrapped in swaddling cloths, and

The most important Person of all history was placed in an animal feed trough.

For this King, no trumpets heralded his arrival to the royals in their castles,

No loud pronouncements proclaimed his birth to officials in their chambers of government.

Instead, an angel choir hailed His coming to humble shepherds on a hillside.

Who can fathom the glory of such humility?

The Word grew to manhood and proclaimed the way to know God as Heavenly Father (10).

The Word spoke radical truth about believing in him and receiving eternal life (11).

The Word sacrificed his life that we might escape darkness

And live forever with him in the kingdom of light (12).

Who can fathom such love?

________________________________________

John 1:14
Colossians 1:15
Hebrews 1:3
Colossians 1:16-17
Hebrews 1:3
Colossians 1:17
Colossians 1:19, ISV
John 6:38
Philippians 2:7
John 1:9
John 5:24
1 Peter 2:9

(Art credits: www.inkwellgreetings.com; http://www.knowing-jesus.com; http://www.churchofchristarticles.com; http://www.hdwallpapers.cat; http://www.chrusler.org; http://www.pinterest.com.)

Posted in Christmas, Jesus, Uncategorized | Tagged Colossians 1:15-17, Colossians 1:19, Hebrews 1:3, Incarnation of Christ, Jesus' humanity and divinity, John 1:14 | 8 Comments »

The Power of Words

December 17, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

Companies spend much time and money analyzing factors that grab our attention to their advertisements. They’ve discovered that certain colors, shapes, and layouts create impact upon buyers.

In fact, researchers have even determined the most powerful, persuasive words. They recommend advertisers use these top ten:

You – you matter; you deserve the product
Free – after all, everyone likes a deal
Because – people need reasons why they should buy
Instantly – we care about immediate results
New – everyone appreciates an improved product
Save – people like a bargain
Proven – we appreciate research that backs up an advertiser’s claim
Love – taps into what’s important to us, like family, safety, and security
Discover – hints of a promise that we’ll be satisfied
Guarantee – removes the feeling of risk

As I read through this list it occurred to me all these words are part of the glorious message of Christmas:

On that quiet night in sleepy Bethlehem, God sent his only Son into the world to be our Savior. Why? Because he loves us. Whoever believes on him will be saved from death and will receive the free gift of eternal life (John 3:16). That includes you!

Oh, but there’s more. When we fuse ourselves to Jesus, we become brand new people (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our outlook on life is revitalized; our values and motivations change. We instantly experience the peace of God and his joy (John 14:27 and 10:10). Each day is an opportunity to discover more of what it means to live a God-enhanced life.

And how do we know those statements are true? God’s Word is our guarantee that these blessings become ours through Jesus. The truth presented within its pages has been proven.

Over 150 years of archaeological studies back up the accuracy of numerous facts in scripture. Not one discovery has uncovered an inaccuracy.

Dozens of Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah were fulfilled by Jesus. The mathematical laws of chance refute the possibility of coincidence.

Scientific and medical information in the Bible has been verified centuries later.*

Thousands of ancient manuscript fragments and letters (which include Bible quotes) corroborate the scriptures – many more than any other ancient text.

The influence of the Bible has been evident in the lives of individuals and upon the culture and history of the Western world. No other book has produced such impact.

There you have it. Ten words that researchers have found to be powerful and persuasive for selling products, or ten words that persuasively express the significance of Christmas and why it makes sense to embrace it.

The apostle John summarized the central truth of Christmas with these ten words:

(“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” John 1:14)

That is glorious, incredible news worth celebrating.

But Christmas isn’t just a happy one-day celebration, it’s meant to be a joyous, whole new way of living with Jesus — all year, every year.

Better yet? A day is coming when the joy of Christmas will be purified, intensified and extended for all eternity–on the day when he comes again!

*For one small example, see “Pathfinder of the Seas” about Matthew Maury and his discoveries.

(Art & photo credits: www.wordstream.com; http://www.beyondwaiting.com; http://www.outreach.com.)

Posted in Christmas, Jesus, Joy, Salvation, Uncategorized | Tagged 2 Corinthians 5:17, John 10:10, John 14:27, John 3:16, Proof the Bible is true, Significance of Christmas | 10 Comments »

I’ll Be Home for Christmas

December 14, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

“Oh, Lord, please don’t put me at a table where everyone else knows each other,” I prayed while putting on earrings. “It’s bad enough that Steve can’t go.”

I was getting ready to attend a dinner theater performance of I’ll Be Home for Christmas*, being held at a nearby church. Had the evening been a date with my husband as originally planned, it wouldn’t have mattered where we sat. But Steve was in bed with a virus, leaving me to attend alone.

I couldn’t use Steve’s illness as an excuse to stay home. Our daughter was one of the dancers. I had to be there; I wanted to be there.

God answered my prayer. No one knew each other at my assigned table, and we spent a delightful hour becoming acquainted—no conversation-monopolizers or negative Nellies in the group.

However, I couldn’t help notice that several tall people were seated between the stage and me. I was going to be rocking back and forth a lot to keep up with the performance. (You short people know what I’m talking about!)

A couple at the table, Larry and Susan, knew one of the teachers from the school where I taught.

“In fact,” Susan added, “She’s here tonight, too–I saw her come in. I think she’s at a table up front.”

During the after-dinner/before-performance break, I wove my way up front to greet Diane. Imagine my surprise when she said,

“We’ve got an extra seat here. Why don’t you come sit with us?”

I scurried back to my original table, expressed my pleasure in meeting everyone, and explained where I was moving and why.

Later, when Heather and the other dancers performed, she was right in front of me much of the time—with no obstructions. Thank you, Lord, for blessings not even asked for, I whispered.

The entire production was over-the-top wonderful, with an engaging script, a well-directed and thoroughly rehearsed cast, and a delightful score. In addition, everyone on stage seemed to be having as much fun as the audience.

But I could tell hours of time had been expended to coordinate the various elements: costumes, set design, actors, dancers, singers, lighting, sound etc. The script also required impeccable timing for certain scenes. No doubt they had practiced again and again to get it just right.

Wouldn’t it be amazing to work on such a musical at our church, I mused. But no way that’s going to happen.

Our music ministry was in need of a new director; the interim (though trying valiantly) was barely keeping us going. The choir had dwindled by half. We weren’t even doing a cantata that year.

But several weeks later, a dynamic director named Dixie accepted the vacant position, and attendance immediately improved. A few weeks after that she announced we would perform a musical for Easter.

Oh, no, I thought. We’re not ready!

But it turned out we were. It took a few Saturday rehearsals and longer choir practices on Wednesday nights, but I don’t remember anyone complaining. The extra hours developed stronger camaraderie among us, renewed our confidence, and bolstered our faith. Dixie showed us that all things are possible with God—even Easter musicals memorized in six weeks!

Several years later in August, Dixie announced the musical we’d perform for Christmas. And guess what script she pulled out? Yup. I’ll Be Home for Christmas*.

The Lord does indeed fulfill the desires of those who fear him (Psalm 145:17)– desires beyond probability, beyond hope, beyond what we ask for.

*I’ll Be Home for Christmas, by Deborah Craig-Claar and Mark Hayes, Lillenas, 1994.

Photo credits: www.jointhedinnerparty.com; http://www.nph.com; http://www.christianbooks.com.

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, God's Goodness, Uncategorized | Tagged church musicals, God fulfills desires, Psalm 145:17, Surprise blessings | 10 Comments »

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

December 10, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

After you’ve known God awhile you begin to notice:

His ways are not our ways–they’re better.

And he loves to weave together disparate, even far-removed elements (sometimes over decades of time) to achieve his plans…

Brothers, John and Charles Wesley are well-known names in church history. God used them as highly effective evangelists in England and America during the 1700s.

(c) John Wesleys House & The Museum of Methodism; Supplied by The Public Catalogue Foundation

Early in their ministry, they became convinced of the power of music to teach scriptural truth and create meaningful worship. Charles in particular began to write hymns. (In fact, he composed over 6,000 in his lifetime. We still sing a number of them today.*)

One of those familiar hymns is “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” Some say the carol was inspired as Charles walked to church on Christmas Day, 1739.

As the church bells rang out he wrote:

“Hark! How all the welkin** ring.

Glory to the King of kings!”

For years to come, those attending the Wesleys’ open-air meetings sang the carol to the tune of another Wesley hymn, “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today.”

In 1743, another famous preacher, George Whitefield, decided to include the carol in a hymnbook he compiled, but changed the first lines to what we know today:

“Hark! The herald angels sing,

‘Glory to the newborn King.”

Charles Wesley did not appreciate the altered words, because scripture includes nothing about angels singing at the birth of Christ. Luke 2:13 clearly states “a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest.’”

Skip ahead more than one hundred years to 1856. Church organist, William H. Cummings (above), discovered a new and perfect tune for the carol, hiding within a cantata by his favorite composer, Felix Mendelssohn. (He had once enjoyed singing in a chorale directed by the famous Mendelssohn.)

The score, Festegesang (1840), had been composed for the 400^th anniversary celebration of Gutenberg’s printing press. In the second section, Cummings heard “a beautiful melody looking for words.” He took Charles Wesley’s verses, George Whitfield’s revisions, and Mendelssohn’s tune to create a hymn suitable for congregational singing.

The result: the familiar carol we sing to this day.

If it had been up to Wesley, those lyrics would never have been changed. He once commented that he and John were honored to have their hymns published, but he did wish the editors would “not attempt to mend them.”

If it had been up to Mendelssohn, his melody never would have become a Christmas carol. Granted, he had recognized its potential for a popular song, but as a Christian, Mendelssohn never considered the melody suitable for sacred words.

God had different plans, however, than Wesley or Mendelssohn. And he used two more gentlemen to accomplish his purpose.

Isn’t that just like our God?

Master Weaver indeed.

________________________________

*Some popular hymns of Charles Wesley: “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing”; “Blessed Be the Name”; “Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus”; “And Can It Be?”; and “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling”.

** Welkin is an old Anglo-Saxon word meaning “the vault of heaven where the angels dwell.”

Sources: Stories behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas by Ace Collins (2001); Stories of the Great Christmas Carols by Kenon D. Renfrow and June C. Montgomery (2003); www.aproundtable.com; www.markroberts.com .

Art and Photo Credits: www.bbc.co.uk; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.wikipedia.org.

Posted in Christmas, Uncategorized | Tagged Charles Wesley, Felix Mendelssohn, George Whitefield, God ways different than our ways, Hark the Herald Angels Sing history, John Wesley, Luke 2:13, William H. Cummings | 8 Comments »

Our Indescribable Gift

December 7, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

(“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!”

–2 Corinthians 9:15 NIV)

Consider.

Jesus, our Savior, is:

Incomparable – without equal or rival (Psalm 86:8)

Incomprehensible – beyond understanding or knowing; unfathomable (Romans 11:33)

Indescribable – exceeding description (Jeremiah 10:6-7)

Indisputable — incontestable (Isaiah 40:13-14)

Inestimable – of incalculable value (Psalm 145:3)

Inexhaustible – incapable of being used up or consumed or becoming tired (Revelation 1:8; Psalm 121:3)

Infallible – cannot fail or even make a mistake (Psalm 145:17)

Invariable – never-changing (Hebrews 13:8)

Invisible – John 1:18

And those nine descriptors only begin to define Jesus. No matter how many fancy, multi-syllable words we might collect, the attributes of God’s Son are beyond full comprehension. And he is God’s gift to us.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Jesus, how we thank you for giving up the splendor of heaven and the glory of your deity, to take on human form and become our Savior. How incomprehensible that you could love such pitiful creatures as mankind. Nevertheless you came so that we, too, could become God’s sons and daughters. Even more incredible, many of the descriptors above will be true of us—on that day when you appear again, and We. Shall. Be. Like. You.

(Philippians 2:6-7; John 3:16; Romans 8:29; 1 John 2:2)

(Art & photo credits: www.pinterest.com; http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org; http://www.thelovelyscribe.com; http://www.tgreatiam.blogspot.com; http://www.pinterest (5).

Posted in Bible Study, Christmas, Jesus, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized | Tagged 1 John 2:2, 2 Corinthians 9:15, Hebrews 13:8, The Gift of God's Son | 12 Comments »

Anticipation vs. Surprise

December 3, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

The Christmas season is well underway at our house. The tree is lit and ornamented,

other decorations are in place,

some of the Christmas cards are complete as well as some of the shopping.

But none of this would matter much if the whole family were not able to gather in just a few weeks. Eager expectation mounts for the noise and laughter, thought-provoking conversations, fabulous meals (prepared by several gourmet cooks in the family), and more.

I actually find much to enjoy just in the anticipation of all this activity. In my imagination I visualize joyful faces, hear the good-natured teasing, smell the wonderful aromas wafting from the kitchen, and feel the warmth and camaraderie of loved ones who even like each other.

Our spirits are lifted as we relish these sublime moments–even before they’ve become reality–because pleasant anticipation is…

“..that sanguine expectation of happiness

which is happiness itself.”

― Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility

But there is much to be said for delightful surprises as well, when:

The florist delivers a fragrant Christmas centerpiece from friends.
The doorbell announces the arrival of uninvited guests–carolers.
The check at a restaurant is paid for by friends who happen to be dining at another table.
An unexpected, especially thoughtful gift is drawn out from behind the tree.

Our hearts beat a little faster, and feel-good endorphins flood the system.

How glorious that the story of the first Christmas gives us both: delicious anticipation and delightful surprises.

First, the anticipation:

Hundreds of years before Jesus was born, the prophets foretold his coming, including his birth to a virgin (Isaiah 7:14), his birthplace in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2), his ancestry from the house of David (Isaiah 11:1-2), and more.

Devout Jews such as Simeon and Anna (Luke 2:25-38) had waited all their lives for the Messiah to come. Their eager expectation was finally fulfilled with the birth of Jesus.

Then the story includes several surprises.

Imagine yourself occupied in ordinary tasks on an ordinary day, when the angel, Gabriel, appears out of nowhere, telling you not to be afraid. (Impossible under the circumstances!) Imagine hearing the words, “You will be the mother of the Son of the Most High.”

Or,

An angel visits you in a dream to explain that the baby boy your fiancé is carrying was put there by the power of the Holy Spirit. (I wonder if Joseph asked the angel to please repeat his message?)

Picture yourself as a shepherd, drowsily watching your flock at night, when POOF! An angel appears, casting ethereal light all around you and announcing the birth of the long-awaited Messiah, the Lord of all. He’s finally here! And his birth is being declared to you—lowly shepherds at the bottom of the social strata. You try to absorb the news while your heart hammers in your chest.

Whichever you prefer—anticipation of the expected or out-of-nowhere surprises—the season offers opportunity for both.

We look forward to the well-loved traditions, familiar carols, and warm family gatherings. These activities can surely be counted among God’s precious gifts to us.

And just as the Jews longingly looked toward the coming of their Messiah, so we anticipate the second Advent or coming of Jesus, when he will begin his reign as the King of kings.

And if you prefer surprises, remember: God still performs wonders and miracles! In fact, he loves to display his glory as he works for our ultimate good in ways we don’t expect.

Perhaps our best attitude is to embrace them both.

Delicious anticipation embodies hope; delightful surprise unfolds into great joy.

(Art & photo credits: Nancy Ruegg (3), gift: www.dreamstime.com; Simeon: www.deliveredbygrace.com; angel visitation: http://www.freerepublic.com; hope and joy: www.etsy.com.)

Posted in Christmas, Jesus, Joy, Uncategorized | Tagged Anticipation for Christmas, Christmas Surprises, Hope of Christmas, Joy of Christmas, Prophecies of Jesus' Birth, The Biblical Christmas Story | 16 Comments »

Nan-Sense for November 2015

November 30, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

Two and a half years ago I posted, “Nan-Sense: It Makes Sense to Me.” I’ve collected a bit more Nan-sense since then! Here are a few examples from this month. Perhaps in reviewing these truths with you, they will become more firmly planted in me.

I’ve been studying Hebrews, chapters 10-13, using Chuck Swindoll’s study book, Hebrews, Volume II (1983). One question invites readers to consider their personal vision. From the dictionary I chose the definition, “a mental image created by the imagination.”

My vision for my character includes these qualities: a) a quiet and gentle spirit (1 Peter 3:4), b) contentment whatever the circumstance (Philippians 4:12), c) consideration of others before myself (Philippians 2:3), d) rejoicing always (Philippians 4:4), and e) practicing God’s presence (John 15:5).

Slowly but surely, that vision is taking shape, by the power of the Spirit. (Although I still have a way to go!)

What is your personal vision?

One morning I glanced out the kitchen window to see a young squirrel perched at the very end of a dead tree branch. I could observe him quite closely because our house is built into a hill. The kitchen/family room, along the back of the house, is at the height of a second story.

Although I was looking almost straight ahead at him, he was about fifteen feet off the ground. His tail curled up gracefully over his back, and he appeared to be resting comfortably—no nervous glances, no shivers of fear.

God reminded me: He has equipped squirrels with claws that grip so tightly, they have no fear of heights. He has equipped me also with his shield of faith and sword of the Spirit. I have no need to fear either. This, the morning after the horrific tragedy in Paris.

God, help me to be faithful to use that sword and shield!

What small moment experience has made an impression upon you recently?

Not long ago, I finished reading The Boys in the Boat (2013), by Daniel James Brown—the story of the eight-oar crew that won Olympic gold in 1936, in Berlin. Reviewers have used such adjectives as “suspenseful,” “riveting,” and “inspiring.” All accurate.

Now most readers would not expect to find statements of spiritual significance in a secular book. But often times I do, and this selection was no exception. From p. 53:

“It is hard to make the boat go as fast as you want to. The enemy, of course, is resistance of the water…but that very water is what supports you and that very enemy is your friend. So is life: the very problems you must overcome also support you and make you stronger in overcoming them” (George Yeoman Pocock, shell-builder*).

Sounds like George knew James 1:2-4.

What have you read lately from a secular source that had spiritual significance?

Last, I heard this quote on the radio, though I doubt this is a word-for-word rendering:

“Don’t worry that you don’t have strength before you start. God gives strength as we journey.”

Sound truth, right? Yet often I’d like to see my life-path at least a few miles ahead, and feel strong enough now to handle anything on that life-path.

God doesn’t work that way.

“Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself,” Jesus taught (Matthew 6:34). Why? Because knowledge and provision ahead of time would cancel out the need for faith. And faith is one of the most precious treasures a person can possess.

What have you heard recently that spoke to your heart?

Join the conversation below with your observations!

*The long, narrow boats used by crews are called shells.

(Art & photo credits: www.movation.wordpress.com; http://www.nighthawkpublications.com; http://www.goodreads.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org.)

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Strength, Uncategorized, Worry | Tagged Faith in the face of fear, George Yeoman Pocock, No need to fear, strength for the journey, The Boys in the Boat, vision | 6 Comments »

The Table Prepared before Me

November 26, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

“You prepare a table before me,

In the presence of my enemies”

–Psalm 23:5

You, oh God, are my Host at the table of life!

You have prepared for me a veritable buffet of experiences and opportunities. Some have been delicious and delightful, created (it seemed) solely for my enjoyment—events such as close encounters with birds or butterflies, an afternoon of laughter and reminiscing with old friends, or a spontaneous hug from a toddler.

Other experiences you’ve prepared because they were good for me: challenges, changes, and uncertainties. You wanted to build strong character within me and grow maturity in my spirit.

However, there have been times when I wondered what you were serving! Forgive me for saying so, but occasionally you’ve mixed together circumstances that appeared as distasteful as pickles and cream cheese. Remember those times you put us in a new community long before I was ready, and how I struggled to let go of the familiar and loved?

Well, just as I never suspected how delicious pickles, cream cheese (and a bit of corned beef) could actually be, I also never suspected how much the people and experiences in a new community would greatly enhance my life.

I’ve also noticed that some of the dishes being served aren’t just for my sake, but for others at the table—especially the younger ones. Take Brussel sprouts, for example. If the children see me eating my portion, perhaps they’ll be inspired to eat theirs, too. In like fashion, as a participant at the table of life, You allow me to join with You in fulfilling larger, far-reaching purposes (way beyond Brussel sprouts)!

Even when enemies such as trial or pain try to swoop in and spoil the celebration, I can rejoice because You are with me, to strengthen and uphold. You’ve given me Your Word, where I can feast on Your attributes and promises. By your power, those enemies will be held at bay—outside the banquet room!

And on this Thanksgiving Day, as every cook prays his/her feast will turn out right and good, I praise You that everything You prepare for me is right and good.

Thank you, Jehovah-Jireh, my Provider, for your plenteous supply of righteousness and goodness in my life.

Happy Thanksgiving, Father!

(Photo credit: www.thanksgivingdinnermenu.net.)

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Praise, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized | Tagged Feasting at God's Banquet Table, Gratitude, Psalm 23:5, Thanksgiving | 14 Comments »

Our Persevering God

November 23, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

(The Lord is compassionate and gracious,

Slow to anger

And rich in faithful love.

–Psalm 103:8, HCSB)

Oh God,

As I skim through the memories of six-plus(!) decades, I see much evidence of these attributes in my life:

Compassion

I praise you that you’ve always looked upon me with compassion, not condemnation. Not one moment of struggle in my life has slipped by your attention unnoticed. And with that attention has come your sympathy. You’ve completely understood every situation I’ve faced, and shared in the physical pain, emotional hurts, and spiritual battles as they’ve come.

How comforting to know that you see my circumstances and sympathize. But even more precious? Your love compels you to express that compassion with encouragement, strength, and support. Each day you bestow new mercies. You never give up on me.

Grace

Oh, how thankful I am that you are a God full of loving kindness. What relief to know your gift of salvation is not based on my effort but on your grace.

Your blessings flow continuously, not based on my faith, but on your benevolent nature.

Even more wondrous, you dwell within me, bestowing peace, joy, wisdom, and more—not because I am righteous and deserving, but because you are righteous and dedicated to my highest welfare.

Patience (Slow to anger)

One evidence of your grace is patience. As a parent and teacher, I’ve learned a little about the attribute of patience—mostly how difficult it is! Little ones can ask countless silly questions, frequently test the limits of acceptable conduct, and behave quite selfishly.

How shameful to admit I still demonstrate such traits. I, too, ask frivolous questions. When troubles assault, I want to know Why, God? I test the limits of your grace with my shallowness, failings, and stubborn streak. And as for selfish behavior, that tendency hasn’t died yet either.

Some Bible translators have used the word longsuffering in place of patience. You have suffered long as you’ve trained me! Step by laborious step you gently guide me toward maturity. And one day my character will be complete, lacking in nothing because of your great forbearance with me.

Love

How can I begin to thank you, God, for the treasure of your undying love? You brought me to faith in Jesus as a child, gave me a place in your forever family, and bequeathed to me an eternal inheritance in heaven. As I wait for that reality, I revel in your faithful love that:

Expresses itself continually, day after day
Attends to what will be in my best interest
Willingly and patiently endures the pain of rejection and disappointment, because of my rebellion
Disciplines me as any loving parent trains his/her dear children
“Perseveres until it perfects” (Philip Yancey)

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, Holy Father, that day after day you manifest these attributes in my life. I am encouraged by your compassion, blessed by all facets of your grace, guided by your patient Spirit, and strengthened by the richness of your faithful love. I can never praise you enough for your magnificence!

(Art & photo credits: www.pinterest.com (3); http://www.dailytimewithgod.com; http://www.pinterest.com.)

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship | Tagged God is slow to get angry, God never gives up on us, God works for our good, God's Compassion, God's Grace, God's Kindness, God's Love, God's Patience, Psalm 103:8 | 14 Comments »

Ten Ways To Keep Mindful of God

November 19, 2015 by Nancy Ruegg

“That does sound wonderful,” a young mother says, “but Brother Lawrence was a monk, working in the garden or kitchen all day. He could pray as he went about his chores. I work in a noisy office and then deal with three noisy kids when I get home. How can I experience continuous communion with God?”

Her dilemma is all too familiar, even for someone like me who’s retired!

So I began a list of possibilities to help me live in more continuous communion with God. Perhaps an idea or two will appeal to you.

Begin the day with God–even as I get out of bed. “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it,” the psalmist urged (118:24). OK, what can I rejoice in and be grateful to God for, as I anticipate the day?

Wear a reminder-bracelet—even a paper one! Write a scripture on it (such as Isaiah 26:3), or an encouraging statement, such as: “He is beneath me as my foundation, He is beside me as my friend, He is within me as my life” (Barbara Johnson, Women of Faith speaker).

Copy a meaningful scripture on a 3 x 5 card. Post it on the inside of a kitchen cabinet door, the visor of the car, or the inside of a closet. Move it around every few days so the element of surprise serves to grab my attention.

Sing to God (while driving quiet streets or doing noisy chores!)

Keep my blessings journal more faithfully. (Even though I established the habit years ago, I still allow some precious gifts to go unrecorded. More attentiveness will add more joy to my days.)

Get outside. Find at least one marvelous gift in creation, and praise God for his genius.

Follow this advice from Barbara Johnson (mentioned above): While using a household product, see if the name or its attributes remind me of God and my relationship with him. One example: Fresh Start laundry detergent. While loading the washer I can pray, “Thank you, Father, that every day is a fresh start with you. Your mercies are new every morning.” (Interested in more products and their implications? Click on “A.M. Attitude Adjustment.”)

Post a verse on the bathroom mirror. Work at memorizing it.

Each time I sip my coffee or tea, I can also “Taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8) by savoring the blessings of the moment. Thankfulness opens my heart to his presence and my mind to his thoughts.**

End the day with God, recalling his blessings or reciting his scripture.

Now if you’re like me, a bracelet on the wrist or a 3 x 5 on a cabinet door soon become such common sights, I barely notice them anymore. Perhaps if I rotate through some of the suggestions, they’ll retain their impact.

Sunday might be the day for an outdoor respite. Monday might be Bracelet Day; Tuesday could be Taste-and-See Day.

You get the idea.

Bottom line: I want my mouth filled with God’s praise; I want to declare his splendor all day long, simply because he is worthy of praise (Psalm 71:8; 1 Chronicles 16:24-25).

But how glorious is this: our all-gracious God chooses to bless us when we seek to bless him—blessings such as:

Peace (Isaiah 26:3)
Encouragement (Psalm 19:7)
Joy (Psalm 16:11)
Rest and refuge–from the onslaught of unsettling thoughts (Psalm 91:1-2)
Strength (Psalm 138:1-3)

So…

“…For a short time, fly from your business;

hide yourself for a moment from your turbulent thoughts.

Break off now your troublesome cares,

and think less of your laborious occupations.

Make a little time for God, and rest for a while in Him.

Enter into the chamber of your mind,

shut out everything but God

and whatever helps you to seek Him, and,

when you have shut the door, seek Him.

Speak now, O my whole heart, speak now to God:

‘I seek Thy face; Thy face, Lord, do I desire.'”

— Anselm

(1033-1109, Archbishop of Canterbury, caring pastor, author)

* * * * * * * * * *

What strategies help you to enjoy continuous communion with God? Please share in the Comments section below!

**based on a statement by Sarah Young, Jesus Calling,p. 343

(Art & photo credits: www.azquotes.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.guilford.ces.ncsu.edu; http://www.zazzle.co.uk; http://www.ourdailyblossom.com.)

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Grace, Intimacy with God, Joy, Meditation, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Worship | Tagged 1 Chronicles 16:24-25, Anselm quote "For a short time...", Brother Lawrence, Communion with God, Gratitude to God, Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 118:24, Psalm 138:1-3, Psalm 16:11, Psalm 34:8, Psalm 71:8, Psalm 91:1-2, Seeking God | 17 Comments »

« Newer Posts - Older Posts »

From the Inside Out

Impressions Becoming Expressions

When Divinity Embraced Humanity

The Power of Words

I’ll Be Home for Christmas

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Our Indescribable Gift

Anticipation vs. Surprise

Nan-Sense for November 2015

The Table Prepared before Me

Our Persevering God

Ten Ways To Keep Mindful of God

Nancy Ruegg

Follow Blog via Email

Recent Posts

Blogs I Follow

Categories

Archives