From the Inside Out

Mary’s Song

December 20, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

Can you remember the first time you studied a snowflake under a magnifying glass? What was your reaction to those delicate intricacies of pattern?

Or how about your first glimpse through a microscope at a drop of pond water? Suddenly you were viewing infinitesimal, squiggly creatures you never knew existed. Chances are your responses included “Wow!” “Look at that!” “I can’t believe it!”

And perhaps that’s when you learned: Only when we examine something closely can we begin to appreciate its value.

Like our Heavenly Father.

Scripture urges us to “magnify” God: “O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together” (Psalm 34:3, KJV, RSV).

To magnify God is to look closely at Him and take careful notice of his actions and attributes. Mary did exactly that, when she visited her cousin, Elizabeth. Elizabeth was much older than Mary, well beyond child-bearing age. But like Sarah of the Old Testament, God had intervened for her. Elizabeth would be the mother of John the Baptist.

When Marry first arrived and greeted her cousin, Baby John leaped in Elizabeth’s womb. (I’m not exaggerating. That’s the exact word in Luke 1:41, NIV. Can you imagine how it would feel to have a baby jump inside you?)

Elizabeth responded with a blessing for Mary and the baby she carried. Mary was so overcome with joy and incredulity, she burst into praise. Her song is called the Magnificat. (See Luke 1:39-45 for more details.)

For ten verses, Mary magnifies the Lord, examining the reason for her joy (vs. 46-49) and looking closely at God’s attributes and actions (50-55) that contribute to her joy. If your Bible includes cross references you’ll notice that Mary recites a varied collection of verses from the psalms, specifically from chapters 34, 138, 71, 103, 98, and 132.

Take note: that’s six psalms. It would seem she chose appropriate thoughts, and wove them together into this beautiful prayer. On the spot, no less! Dare I suggest that Mary was a highly intelligent young woman?

Such an ability would also indicate Mary grew up in a godly home where scripture was highly esteemed. Her family evidently took to heart the words of Psalm 1:2, “His delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.”

Full of emotion, Mary rejoiced in God, her Savior. He had been mindful of her, a humble peasant girl. God had blessed her beyond imagining, to be the mother of the Messiah.

Then Mary itemized specific ways God had benefited all his people:

• He extends mercy to those who reverence him (v. 50)
• He has performed mighty deeds (v. 51)
• He has scattered the proud (v. 51)
• He has brought down rulers, but lifted up the humble (v. 52)
• He has filled the hungry, but sent the rich away empty (v. 53)
• He has been merciful to Israel (vs. 54-55)

Has God been at work in your life, perhaps in similar ways? Has God been mindful of you and blessed you (v. 48)? What great things has He done for you (v. 49)? Has his mercy been extended to you (v. 50)?

View the activity of God in your life through the magnifying glass of meditation.

Feel free to comment below, and share with us your observations!

Here’s another idea to consider: as a Christmas gift to your Savior, write a Magnificat of your own.

Posted in Christmas, Prayer, Worship | Tagged Elizabeth, Luke 1:39-55, Magnificat, Mary Mother of Jesus, Mary's Magnificat | Leave a Comment »

Mary’s Choice

December 17, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

The Annunciation by Eustache Le Sueur, an example of 17th century Marian art. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Imagine a young woman, engaged to be married. Her mind is occupied with a long to-do list that includes preparations for the wedding, and for the new home she’ll create with her husband.

Husband. Just thinking about him sends her mind floating to dreams for the future. And all her plans and dreams rise and fall over hills of emotion: great excitement in the new adventure to come, yet melancholy, too, because life-as-it’s-always-been will soon be no more.

Surely Mary, the mother of Jesus, must have been thinking similar thoughts as she planned and prepared for her wedding and married life, just like any other bride.

Now imagine her surprise when the angel, Gabriel, appeared to her. The Bible tells us that as Gabriel spoke, Mary was greatly troubled (Luke 1:19). I like Eugene Peterson’s choice of words: “She was thoroughly shaken” (The Message).

Do you suppose Mary jumped at the sound of his voice? Did her eyes grow wide and her hand clap over her mouth? Might she have taken in a quick gasp of air as her heart began to pound?

Gabriel hurried on to explain God’s plan for her—so radically different from the plans she and Joseph were making. Mary was no doubt envisioning a small wedding (after all, they were not wealthy), and settling down to a quiet life in Nazareth. Little did she know that a trip to Bethlehem was in her future—during her ninth month of pregnancy no less.

Mary had been chosen by God to bear the Messiah! The Jews had been waiting centuries for this event. God could have chosen any time or any place for the birth of his Son. He could have named any woman to be the mother of Jesus. He chose Mary, a small-village girl. No wealth, no sophistication, no influence. Did Mary’s cheeks burn with modesty, to be selected for such a monumental privilege?

Yet the magnitude of this honor quickly gave way to practical matters. She asked Gabriel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin” (v. 34)?

Gabriel explained as best he could. I wonder if God the Father had given him explicit instructions about what to say. After all, he was trying to explain cosmic, miraculous, humanly impossible events.

And Mary stood on the precipice of eternity, facing a decision with eternal consequences. Which way would she choose?

She could have said, “Oh, no, Sir. This cannot be. I am not qualified. Such a responsibility is much too frightening even to consider! Please choose someone else.” A very logical answer, right?

But instead, Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said” (v. 38).

Perhaps it was Gabriel’s last words that gave her such boldness. “For nothing is impossible with God” (v. 37). Did the numerous miracles of the Old Testament whisk through her mind, as proof of Gabriel’s words?

Might it be, as Gabriel began to relate what would happen, that the Holy Spirit came upon her right then? And the power of the Most High overshadowed her (v. 35) even as Gabriel spoke? Perhaps, at that very moment, the presence and empowerment of God rushed into Mary’s mind and heart.

We won’t know this side of heaven. But I do know is this:

In her defining moment, young Mary exemplified the epitome of innocent trust in God and unfaltering obedience.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Father, I want to trust you with pure abandon, just as Mary did. Too often I fret about consequences.

I want to live out your plan, in the place you have chosen, at the selected time, just as Mary did. Too often I’m in a hurry and want things to happen here and now.

And like Mary, I want to stand strong on the edge of eternity, with my arms spread wide, and jump into the abyss of your plan—confident in the knowledge that you will carry me on eagles’ wings (Exodus 19:4).

Posted in Christmas, Faith | Tagged Angel Gabriel, Christmas, Faith, Gabriel's visit to Mary, Luke 1:19-38, Mary Mother of Jesus, Obedience | 5 Comments »

The Unanswerable Questions

December 15, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

Just trying to put words on the screen brings tears to my eyes.

The horror gripping Newtown, Connecticut right now is incomprehensible and heart-wrenching.

And the unanswerable questions flash in garish neon across my mind:

• Why, God? Why didn’t you intervene?
• Where were you?
• How is it possible for such gross evil to take place?

Yes, scripture gives some answers.

• “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways,” declares the Lord (Isaiah 55:8).

• “If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there” (Psalm 139:8).

• “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12).

But it’s not enough right now. Such abhorrent evil as was carried out in those kindergarten classrooms makes us sick. A few words of platitude don’t help. Not even scripture.

But this tragedy does have me thinking: What happened at Sandy Hook Elementary is an example of the dark wickedness any one of us is capable of—without Jesus.

Lord, have mercy on those suffering families and friends of Newtown. Yet, in the midst of great sadness, I thank you for the mercy you have already flooded upon us, in sending your Son, Jesus. He is indeed our way through calamity. He is our truth when no other truth suffices. And most glorious of all, he is our life—eternal life (John 14:6). We cling to you, Father, Son, and Spirit. Amen.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Evil, Newtown Connecticut tragedy | 6 Comments »

God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

December 13, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

As I was decorating the house for Christmas and listening to carols, “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” caught my attention. The words proclaim the joyous news of “Jesus Christ our Savior, born on Christmas Day, to save us all from Satan’s power when we were gone astray.” Yet the tune is in minor key, which gives the song an air of sadness. My curiosity kicked in (it doesn’t take much), wanting to know why the composer would make such a choice.

After a bit of research, here’s what I discovered: This is an old carol, dating back to 15th century England. The composer is unknown, so we have no record of the musical/ lyrical choices he made. However, we can make an educated guess about his motivation, to answer the question why he wrote this carol.

Church music of that time was rather dreary, and sung in Latin. The common folk would never have been allowed to compose music for worship, especially in English. So historians surmise that a peasant wrote this song, perhaps to be sung in his own home.

(May I be so bold as to suggest a woman may have created the song, as a diversion during household chores?!)

Whatever its inception, the carol grew in popularity and soon was sung by many. It remained a favorite through subsequent generations and was finally published in 1833. Charles Dickens even chose the song for a scene in The Christmas Carol (1843):

“…at the first sound of — ‘God bless you merry, gentlemen! May nothing you dismay!’— Scrooge seized the ruler with such energy of action that the singer fled in terror, leaving the keyhole to the fog and even more congenial frost.”

Back to the question that began this investigation: Why such a positive message expressed with such a sad-sounding tune? Without much background information to go on, my curiosity has to be satisfied with conjecture. What would be a logical explanation for uplifting words set in a minor-key?

Perhaps the composer was trying to express the dichotomy in which we live.

First, the minor key suggests the sad reality that we live in a world oppressed by “Satan’s power” (from verse 1 of the carol). He is a roaring lion, prowling around for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8) with his lies and temptations. And what do lions choose to prey upon? The weakest of creatures who cannot easily flee.

The second half of the dichotomy comes from the cheerful lyrics, retelling the glorious story of Jesus’ birth. The chorus resounds again and again with “tidings of comfort and joy.” Why? “This day is born a Savior of virtue, power, and might” (from verse 3 of the carol).

And now the icing on the cake. (Or, more appropriately for this time of year, the star on top of the tree!) This Savior of virtue, power, and might is in us! Somehow His Spirit entwines with each of ours. We can experience His comfort and joy, just as the carol proclaims.

Yet there’s more. We can experience His presence. We can rest in His peace, rely upon His wisdom, and go to Him for help and guidance. Not even these seven blessings cover the gamut of His loving-kindness to us.

Now, because our Savior of virtue, power, and might lives within us, we are not weak creatures, who cannot easily flee that roaring, prowling lion called Satan. Jesus, our Lord and Savior, is much greater than he is (1 John 4:4)!

My heart almost skips a beat, just thinking about such astounding realities. With a humbled, grateful, merry heart, I “now to the Lord sing praises” (verse 6 of the carol)–enthusiastically!

Will you join me?

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, God's Power, God's Presence, Uncategorized, Worship | Tagged Christmas, God rest you merry gentlemen, God's Power, God's Presence, Praise, Worship | 13 Comments »

The Day for All Time

December 9, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

Why is it that most of us find Christmas to be the pinnacle of each year? Is it:

• the twinkling lights and yard displays?
• the treats like eggnog, that we only allow ourselves during the holidays?
• the gift-giving, with all the build-up of anticipation beforehand?

Or might it be because: “Christmas is the day that holds all time together?”

Those words were penned by Alexander Smith, a Scottish poet of the 1800s. With just nine words he deftly solved the riddle. It is the Christmas season, more so than any other time, when past, present, and future come together in one glorious, unified experience.

Consider how the past becomes entwined with the present as the holiday season progresses. Memories are more poignant than ever, and traditions hold greater import. For example, preparing the house for the holidays often involves customs and heirlooms that have been in the family for years.

One custom many of us enjoy is decorating the Christmas tree. And it’s probable that most families treasure at least several heirloom ornaments. Releasing each one from its cocoon of tissue is like greeting an old friend. And attached to those decorations are memories–memories of the loved ones who gave them to us and memories of Christmases past.

One particular ornament of our family’s collection causes a great wave of nostalgia for me. It’s shaped a bit like an old kerosene lamp, and shimmers softly with the patina of age, pale green and silver.

My father bought that ornament, in the early 1930s, when he was just nine or ten. Grandma gave him the honor of bicycling to the dime store to choose a new decoration for the family tree. Later he realized she and his older siblings were probably anxious to get him out of the house, so they could complete holiday preparations without an overly excited boy underfoot.

That lamp-ornament hung on our family Christmas tree all the years I was growing up in the 1950s and ’60s. And sometime in the 1980s, Mom and Dad passed it on to me.

Wrapped up in that one decoration are all the Christmases of my distant, childhood past, characterized by tinsel-covered trees, dolls in crisp, starched dresses, programs at church and school, and dining tables overflowing with delectable feasts. As I hang the little lamp, my imagination returns to those Christmases celebrated with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, whose love and laughter now live only in my heart.

Undoubtedly, memories are an important part of the euphoria Christmas creates. But there is plenty about the present that brings joy to the season as well: families gather, carols ring, and sweet aromas waft from kitchens. Cards arrive from distant loved ones, renewing bonds of love and friendship. Gifts are purchased and wrapped, with the delicious anticipation of bringing delight to the recipients. Meals become occasions to be savored, as family and friends gather to simply enjoy one another’s company.

And what about the future? As Christmas approaches, the excitement of all the splendorous moments to come certainly has us looking forward. In fact, there is a large measure of joy in the anticipation itself, not just in the events. Who has not felt the excitement of checking off days on the calendar until that special party? Until loved ones arrive? Until Christmas Day itself?

And no sooner does one holiday season draw to a close, than we start thinking, “Next year, I’m going to make some of those cookies Sylvia brought to the party.” Or, “Next Christmas we’ll have two grandchildren to enjoy, not just one!”

And so, it is just as Alexander Smith said. Christmas holds all time together–in memories of the past, joys of the present, and anticipation of the future.

However, Mr. Smith’s words include a deeper truth for us as Christians. Christmas is, after all, the holiday, or holy day, when we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Again, past, present, and future come together in one shining moment.

First, Christ’s birth obviously took place in the past, two thousand years ago.

Second, we have only to consider his name, Emmanuel, to realize how Jesus’ birth touches the present. No doubt you remember Emmanuel means “God with us.” Present tense is suggested, reminding us that now, in the present, Jesus is with those who desire his presence.

Finally, the greatest truth of all: Our future is secure because of Christmas. Those familiar words of John 3:16 make clear that God loves us and sent his Son, Jesus. When we believe in him, he gives us the most precious gift of eternal life. It is a simple fact, but wondrously profound.

In reality then, it’s not just the celebration of Christmas that joins past, present, and future. It’s the One we celebrate on Christmas that holds all time together.

“To the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen” (Jude 25).

What experience(s) of the Christmas season bring together all time for you? Leave a comment and tell us about it!

(Photo credit: www.pinterest.com.)

Posted in Christmas, Uncategorized | Tagged Alexander Smith, Christmas, Christmas is the day that holds all time together, Christmas memories, Jude 25 | 11 Comments »

God’s Presence Is…

December 6, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

I was flat on my back in a hospital bed, awaiting surgery to repair a herniated disc. Yet in spite of uncertainties, discomfort, and loneliness, I felt completely encased in God’s peace, peace that defied explanation, just like the Bible says (Philippians 4:7).

A few days later, at home and on the mend, I embarked on a scripture search of verses that described what I had experienced—God‘s enveloping presence. Here are a few examples.

God’s presence is…

…around us. “You are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head” (Psalm 3:3).

…at our right hand. “I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand” (Psalm 73:23).*

…before us. “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 31:8).

…beneath us as our foundation. “This is what the Sovereign Lord says. ‘See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed'” (Isaiah 28:16).

…in us. “To them God has chosen to make known…the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27).

…over us. “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge” (Psalm 91:4a).

…surrounding us. “The Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him” (Psalm 32:10b).

…with us. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me” (Psalm 23:4a).

Think of it. Every moment of every day we are cocooned in God’s presence, a presence which is

• protective
• peaceful
• uplifting
• trustworthy
• loving

I think I hear God whispering to each of us, “Snuggle in, my child!”

(Which verse above spoke most profoundly to your heart? Share with us your choice and the reason behind it. Your story might be just what someone else needs to hear right now.)

*For the November 26 post, I researched the significance of the right hand of God. Access it in the archives if you missed it and you’re curious!

Posted in Blessings, God, God's Presence | Tagged God's Presence | 4 Comments »

God Is Our Refuge

December 3, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

ooooooh it’s a snake (Photo credit: joshgray)

When I was a little girl, my parents kept a large garden in the backyard. They grew corn, beans, tomatoes, strawberries, lettuce, and more.

Among all that produce grew something else: garter snakes. I was petrified of those snakes, in spite of assurances from Mom and Dad that they could do me no harm

So what was my reaction if, while playing in the yard, I noticed the slightest bit of slithering? I RAN while emitting eardrum-splitting shrieks. No doubt those snakes took off just as rapidly in the opposite direction, but I never looked back to find out.

Those experiences make a good word-picture of my response when snakes of negativity, worry, or hurt feelings invade my mind. RUN!

James recommended exactly that: “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (4:7b).

But where should I run to? As a child, when seeking escape from the garter snakes, I often ran into the house, a safe and secure refuge. (Although I did have the occasional nightmare about smart snakes, who knew how to slither under doors and up stairs, so even the house wasn’t safe!)

As an adult, facing “snakes” of a different nature, where should I run?

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).

That means, when my thoughts begin to turn to the negative, I need to run to God, my refuge of hope and help (Psalm 119:114).

When people speak or act unkindly and my emotions are bruised, I need to run to God, my refuge of comfort (Psalm 31:19-20).

When worry overtakes me, I need to run to God, my refuge of peace (Psalm 9:9).

Once my attention is focused on him, I must:

Look into his eyes and see the great everlasting love he has for me (Jeremiah 31:3).
Sense his strong arms around me, holding me close to his heart (Isaiah 40:11).
Hear him reminding me of all his promises and all the times he has blessed me in the past.
Taste his goodness (Psalm 34:8) in all the flavors of his attributes: power, wisdom, holiness, loving-kindness, grace, and more.

And what will be the end result? “Let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy” (Psalm 5:11a). That sure beats cowering, fretting, and flustering, doesn’t it?

Thank you, Father, for availing yourself to us as a refuge, a person-place we can run to for help, protection, and peace. We love you, O Lord, our strength, because you are our rock, our fortress, and our deliverer (Psalm 18:1). Thank you for caring for us, those who seek to trust in you (Nahum 1:7). May we avail ourselves of your gladness and joy rather than let the snakes of negativity, worry, or emotional hurt get the best of us!

Posted in God's Protection, God's Refuge, Hope | Tagged Faith, God, Psalm, psalm 31, psalm 46, psalm 9, Refuge | 5 Comments »

God’s Delight

November 29, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

Breathe in this truth, long and deep: God delights in you.

“That’s impossible,” you may say. “I can be downright self-centered, lazy, and prideful. Some days I can’t seem to do anything right. How could God possibly be pleased with me?” (I am quite familiar with this train of thought myself!)

Listen carefully. “The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love (Psalm 147:11).”

Fear, in this case, does not refer to terror. Fear refers to these attitudes:

reverence
trust
respect
awe
consideration
appreciation

The second half of that verse makes clear that God rejoices in those who turn to him with faith.

If those terms describe your heart, then the following statements are true of you:

He smiles upon you as you express appreciation for his blessings.

His eyes glisten with love as you pray for guidance and strength.

He revels in the time you spend immersed in his Word.

His heart fills with joy as you exult in creation.

He beams with pleasure when you help a stranger.

He rejoices when your heart is filled with peace and joy.

Yes, there are going to be moments when we stumble back into selfishness and pride. We’re not perfect—at least I’m not. But hallelujah! God does not leave it up to us to work through the perfecting-process alone.

Consider this good news the writer of Hebrews shared: “May the God of peace…equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 13:20-21).

Wow. God not only makes clear what pleases him, he works in our hearts and minds to mold us into those kind of people.

Meanwhile, I think he takes great pleasure in progress, just like human parents do.

You know how it is. Mom and Dad practically shiver with excitement when their little tyke takes his first step and speaks his first word.

But did they leave their little one to learn these skills on his own? Hardly. With loving attention they held the little guy upright so he could practice taking steps. They repeated words countless times until their toddler could form them on his own.

Now relate this situation to our Heavenly Father. Isn’t it probable he experiences the same joy as we take faltering steps toward spiritual maturity? And he’s not leaving us alone to find our own way. He’s equipping us and working in us all along the way.

* * * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Lord, for being a gracious God who actually delights in his children. Thank you for loving us in spite of our failings and for smiling upon our efforts, meager as they may be. Our hearts are filled with awe and gratitude to realize you, the ultimate, all-powerful King of the universe, not only care about each step of progress we make, you are right beside us. You are magnificent—I can never praise you enough!

(Photo credits: www.pinterest.com; http://www.bsna.co.uk.)

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Faith, God's Delight, Prayer | Tagged Faith, God, Psalm 147:11, Reverence for God | 7 Comments »

The Right Hand of God

November 26, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

See if this sounds familiar: You’re reading along in the Bible when you come upon a phrase you’ve seen before, maybe even many times. But suddenly the realization dawns. You don’t really know what that phrase means.

That was my experience as I read this verse: “I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken” (Psalm 16:8). I had to wonder, what is so significant about God’s right hand?

After a bit of research, here is what I discovered.

1) In Bible times, the position to the right was considered a place of honor. This concept is seen at its finest in Hebrews 1:3 where Jesus “sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” But according to Psalm 16:8 (above), he is in the place of honor in my life and yours. With our reverence and obedience we can demonstrate our honor of him.

2) If a man has God at his right hand, it means God’s shield is next to him. God’s sword arm is free to deal with the enemy. Visualize yourself walking behind that impenetrable shield. And in his right hand, God wields His sword, ready to strike down the enemy—Satan and his demons. “He stands at the right hand of the needy one, to save his life from those who condemn him” (Psalm 109:31). I love that visualization of God on the offensive for us.

3) A bride stands with the groom on her right, symbolizing the groom’s protection. The Lord Jesus is our Bridegroom and we, his church, are the bride (Revelation 21:1-3). David proclaimed God’s protective right hand in Psalm 17:7. “You…save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes,” he said. God is our undefeated defense.

4) For many of us the right side of our bodies is stronger than the left. Perhaps David had that idea in mind when he wrote, “Your right hand sustains me” (Psalm 18:35b). And what does sustain mean? Uphold, encourage, and affirm. Imagine God’s right hand upholding you—day in and day out. Just the warmth and strength flowing from his touch has the power to encourage and affirm.

5) In addition to extra strength on the right, most of us have extra dexterity in our right hands. We use that hand for writing, drawing, cutting, and other such tasks. Any good handwork is accomplished with that dominant hand. So what comes from God’s right hand? The psalmist proclaimed: “Your right hand is filled with righteousness,” (48:10). Everything God does is good and morally correct. He always gives his best to his work.

I thank you, Father, for the many times I have been protected, sustained, and blessed by your right hand. If you never lifted your hand again on my behalf I would have no cause for complaint. And yet you have promised us “eternal pleasures at your right hand.” (Psalm 16:11c). I bow before you in wordless wonder.

(Photo credit: sonfeld.wordpress.com.)

Posted in God's Protection, Worship | Tagged God, God's right hand, Psalm 109:31, Psalm 16:11, Psalm 16:8, Psalm 17:7, Psalm 18:35, Psalm 48:10, Worship | 4 Comments »

I Will Give Thanks

November 22, 2012 by Nancy Ruegg

Frequently we thank God for blessings already received: our families and friends, the beauty of creation, material possessions, and circumstances which have turned out well. Today in particular we joyfully celebrate God’s benevolence.

But in Psalm 7:17, David demonstrates a different kind of thanksgiving prayer. He determines to praise God in spite of facing false accusations, slander, and injustice.

David says, “I will give thanks to the Lord because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the Lord Most High” (Psalm 7:17).

How can David be so positive in such dire circumstances? You’ll find the answer in the middle of the verse: “Because of his righteousness.”

And what does God’s righteousness include?

He abounds in love to all who call upon him (Psalm 86:5b).
He answers even before we call (Isaiah 65:24).
He’s an involved God–not one who watches from afar with impersonal detachment (Isaiah 41:10).
He’s always working to bring his plans to fulfillment (Psalm 33:4).
He brings good out of evil (Genesis 50:20), and victory out of defeat (1 Corinthians 15:57).

And that’s just a start. In fact, the righteousness of our God is infinite, so such a list would never near completion.

To sum it up, we can be filled with thanksgiving and praise because our God acts and reacts rightly all the time. Every time. To every prayer. Even the prayers to which he has responded…

…“Not now, dear one.”

Or…

…“No, my child. For reasons beyond your understanding, I cannot grant that request.”

But what then? How do we survive the pain? The loneliness? The unfairness of it all?

We cling to his righteousness.

Heavenly Father, even though there are many prayers for which I am awaiting answers, I thank you, Lord, for your righteousness. Even though you have said, “No, that’s not part of my plan,” I thank You, Lord, for your righteousness. You are righteous in all your ways, and loving toward all you have made. You are near to all who call upon you. My mouth will speak in praise of You (Psalm 145:17-18a, 21a).

What aspect of God’s righteousness is ministering to you right now? Leave a comment and tell us about it.

(Photo credit: www.religionblog.dallasnews.com.)

Posted in Appreciation, Faith, God, Prayer, Thanksgiving | Tagged Appreciation, God, God's righteousness, Prayer, Psalm 145:17-18, Psalm 7:17, Thanksgiving | 8 Comments »

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From the Inside Out

Impressions Becoming Expressions

Mary’s Song

Mary’s Choice

The Unanswerable Questions

God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

The Day for All Time

God’s Presence Is…

God Is Our Refuge

God’s Delight

The Right Hand of God

I Will Give Thanks

Nancy Ruegg

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