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Posts Tagged ‘God’s Goodness’

Finding Calm and Quiet

Posted in Bible Study, Faith, Hope, Maturity, Meditation, Obedience, Peace, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on July 30, 2026| 21 Comments »

King David Playing the Harp by Gerard van Honthorst (1622)

(Psalm 131, personalized)

“My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty” (v. 1a).

O God, King David’s firm assertion that no pride lurks in his heart stirs up envy within me. I wish I could say no pride ever lurks in my heart.

Pride is such an ugly attribute.  Just like mold on bread causes ruin, pride causes ruin in me.

A bent toward self-aggrandizing—even in my thoughts—spoils my connection with You, Father, as much as pridefully choosing to do things my way instead of Your way. And when my feelings are bruised by the words and actions of others? It’s really pride masquerading as “hurt.”

I’d like to say with King David, “I have given up my pride and turned away from my arrogance” (v. 1 GNT), but the mold of pride still forms in my spirit from time to time.

I ask Your help, O God, to help me cut it off the moment it begins to appear. Remind me that apart from You I am nothing and can do nothing (1).

“I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me” (v. 1b).

David also asserts he doesn’t concern himself with matters outside his control or things too profound for him and beyond his understanding.

In years past and much too often I allowed my mind to circle around distressing situations and worrisome what-ifs, even though such thinking accomplishes nothing.

You’ve taught me, Lord, (and continue to give me opportunities for practice!), to affirm what I know about You and Your ways instead of fretting, including such encouraging passages as Psalm 145:8-9:

“But I have calmed and quieted myself” (v. 2a).

You are the Almighty Sovereign One, the only wise God, my faithful and loving Father. How silly I am not to rest—every moment–in Your power and peace.

David states matter-of-factly he’s calmed and quieted his soul. Since his days as a shepherd boy he’d been one to affirm what he knew to be true about You. Psalm 23 is one eloquent example. 

But David also prayed concerning his needs, trusting that You’d provide:

Thank You, Father, for teaching me the power of prayer and praise to quiet my soul. I have only to present my requests before You—with thanksgiving—to experience your peace [2].

“I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content” (v. 2b).

In fact, the calm and quiet of Your peace is like that of a weaned child, contentedly nestled on his mother’s lap [3]—no longer demanding immediate gratification.

What a sweet image of the rest I can experience in the assurance of Your provision, in Your time, while reveling in the closeness and companionship in Your presence.

I know Your goal for me is emotional and spiritual maturity. You sometimes choose to wean me away from good things, to bring me to better things. Help me to remember: painful losses can give way to wonderful gains [4].

“Israel, put your hope in the LORD both now and forevermore” (v. 3).

And so, Father, I put my hope in You, now and forevermore. This is not wishful thinking but confident expectation based on the perfections of Your character. My hope is strengthened by Your glorious promises, including Your assurance never to leave me or forsake me.

I can joyfully anticipate what You will do in the future, knowing You have my best interest at heart. This day and every day I place my trust in You afresh, my good and gracious God!

____________________

[1] 1 Corinthians 1:27-31; John 15:5 

]2] Philippians 4:6-7

[3] Psalm 131:2

[4] Warren Wiersbe, Be Exultant, 174.

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How to Jump-Start Your Joy

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Provision, God's Salvation, Joy, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on June 25, 2026| 34 Comments »

Most of you who read this blog accept the Bible as truth. You’ve considered the evidence, including:

  • thousands of archaeological discoveries, giving evidence of the people, places, and ancient civilizations mentioned in the Bible. Nothing has been found to disprove scripture.
  • such ancient manuscripts as the Dead Sea Scrolls, dating back to 150 BC to 68 AD, that include at least excerpts from every Old Testament book except Esther.

These factors and others support your Christian faith. As a result, you’ve accepted the reality of such scripture as John 3:16:

You’ve believed in Jesus and accepted him into your life. You love him for what he’s done for you and continues to do, including forgiving your sins, encouraging your spirit, granting peace of mind, as well as providing the gift-of-all-gifts, eternal life.

Yet sometimes the joy Jesus promised (John 15:11) seems elusive.

Perhaps you’re overworked and underpaid by your employer. Tension within the extended family causes constant stress, or your teenager argues against every boundary like a relentless, prosecuting attorney.

Each of us needs to jump-start our joy some days—to defy the discouraging circumstances we face.

But how do we do that? Three simple actions can begin the turn from upset to uplift.

You’re no doubt familiar with them, but:

See if these three actions seem good to you:

REFLECT ON GOD’S GOODNESS

Joy starts to percolate when we identify the gifts and favors God continually bestows, as a result of his holy character. For example, we might see:

  • His devoted care (Psalm 145:20a), expressed through the compassion and support of family and/or friends
  • His undying hope, as the sun breaks through thick clouds, reminding us that he specializes in turning darkness into light (2 Samuel 22:29)
  • His loving attentiveness (Psalm 34:15), in the kindness of a stranger who “pays it forward” at the coffee-shop drive-thru
  • His incomparable strength (Psalm 27:14 ISV), enabling us to wait with faith for his perfect plan to unfold
  • His tender encouragement, often bestowed through such scriptures as Psalm 118:6a; 7a:

REST IN GOD’S PROMISES

Perhaps like me, God has led you to a perfect Bible promise during a season of challenge.

I remember fighting heavy fatigue when our third baby seemed perfectly content with intermittent power naps–even at night. The promise of Isaiah 40:29 became especially meaningful: “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”

However, God didn’t infuse me with miraculous energy. Neither did our youngest begin sleeping from sunset to sunrise.

God’s way was to give me just enough strength for each day. His promise held, and in the process I learned deeper reliance on him and greater perseverance.

REJOICE IN HIS BLESSINGS

Spurgeon’s statement above raises the question, how many blessings do you suppose we’ve missed because we’re distracted by our dilemmas?

Author John Eldredge would have us “drink in beauty wherever we can get it—in music, in nature, in art, in a great meal shared. These are all gifts to us from God’s generous heart. Friends, those things are not decorations to a life, they bring us life” (from Wild at Heart).

So drink in the blessing of that worship song, that majestic tree, that inspired painting, those delightful moments at the family dinner table, chattering and laughing together.

These represent just a smattering of gifts that God bestows every day, demonstrating his goodness which he promised long ago:

And by reflecting on that goodness, resting in such promises, and rejoicing in God’s blessings, we can surely energize our spirits and jump-start our joy!

What joy-starters work for you? Please share in the comment section below!

(Image credits: http://www.worldhisotry.org (Keven Eng); http://www.canva.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.freerangestock.com (Paul Morris).

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Sacred Hands Behind the Scenes

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on April 23, 2026| 40 Comments »

Just for fun, I pulled my God Is Faithful journal off the shelf and flipped the pages to several decades ago—years when Steve served in the pastorate, our three children still lived at home, and I was a stay-at-home mom, then teacher.

God certainly worked behind the scenes for our family and created magnificent poetry. Here are a few examples:

THE POETRY OF ANSWERED PRAYER

11-11-85 I prayed with N. concerning a worrisome visit with her disagreeable aunt that afternoon. The next day N. told me the visit went beautifully. No doubt God not only worked through N., but prepared her aunt’s heart also.

9-27-89 I’d been praying God would affirm Steve during a difficult season. On this date he received a kind and supportive note from a parishioner.

11-7-89 The books my students had ordered from Scholastic Books were long past due for arrival. I’d forgotten to xerox the order form and checks before sending them snail mail, and now had no proof-of-purchase. (This was before online ordering.)

That night I prayed for God to intervene for me. When I arrived at school the next morning, there was the book-order box on my desk.

THE POETRY OF GOD’S FAVOR 

6-18-86 A man came to our door with my wallet in his hand. He’d found it on the sidewalk several blocks away, where I’d somehow dropped it while returning home from an errand. (I’d walked in order to incorporate exercise into the day.)

I hadn’t even realized yet my wallet was missing!

1-13-88  I didn’t set the alarm properly, but awoke anyway the next morning—out of a sound sleep—at 5:15 on the dot, just when I was supposed to get up.

12-26-92 During our family Christmas Brunch (just the five of us—no visiting family), Steve asked the children what God had done for them in 1992.

E. said God had helped him become more focused and motivated at school. H. said he’d helped her feel better about herself and she’d been happier since the mission trip that summer. J. said he was thankful to go to a good school. 

We enjoyed a great time of family togetherness, focusing on God and his participation in our lives.   

THE POETRY OF GOD’S INTERVENTION

3 -25-88 I made it to Spring Break! In spite of 1,000 things to do in an impossible time frame, God brought me through. Actually, what He did was remove about 900 of those tasks!

I couldn’t believe how one thing after another took care of itself or was postponed. God worked out everything superbly.

6-1-89 I drove H. to ballet class in Steve’s new stick-shift Colt, so pleased that muscle-memory kicked in and we arrived with no mishaps or “frogging.” But after parking the car, I mistakenly left it in neutral.

When I came out of the school the car was not where I’d left it, but had rolled across the aisle into the matching spot on the other side, as if I’d parked there instead.

(Sometimes I feel like such a toddler in God’s family—he has to watch over me every minute!)

10-9-90 A contentious issue in our church came to a vote. We heard rumblings that some unhappy people were urging a “no” vote. But the discussion proceeded smoothly with a prevailing spirit of unity, and in the end a strong majority voted “yes.”

God had worked in people’s hearts; Steve felt as though we’d turned a corner.

5-29-92 I was registered to attend a week-long class, held at a hotel. When I arrived the desk clerk said the class had been canceled. Just then, another attendee, Ruth, approached the desk. We deliberated about what to do.

Though it was early evening on a Friday and the offices of the host school would likely be closed, we decided to call anyway. 

A woman just happened to be there who told us the location had been changed to another hotel. Ruth and I were among those who’d registered early, before the change, and somehow had never been notified.

*     *     *

God’s sacred hands do indeed weave poetry into our lives! And . . .

You’ve no doubt experienced episodes of God’s goodness similar to those described above. Please share an example in the comments below.

Your illustration of God-woven poetry may be just what someone else needs to read!

Image credits: http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.pickpik; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.needpix.com.

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The Favor of God

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Promises, God's Provision, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged , , , , , , , , , on March 19, 2026| 51 Comments »

(An addendum to one of the stories in last week’s post:)

“John just called,” Steve informed me.  “He and his wife Peg will be in town on business this weekend, and want to visit the church on Sunday. What would you think of inviting them for dinner afterwards?”

‘Let me check with Mom—‘see if she can help,” I responded. “It would be nice to get acquainted with them ahead of our move.”

John served as chairman of the staff-parish relations committee for the new church Steve had been appointed to. In seven weeks we’d be moving from west coast to east coast in Florida, as determined a couple of months previously by those in charge. 

The visit in late April was arranged and dinner planned. My dear mother helped with preparations, since we were already stretched quite thin with Steve’s church responsibilities, mine as an elementary teacher, our three kids, and packing already underway.

As some of you know, we lived in parsonages during Steve’s ministry. Until 2010 or so, these clergy-homes were also supposed to be furnished.

At the time of this move we lived in a lovely middle-class home that fit the current guidelines for parsonages.

This house (over 2000 square feet), included four bedrooms, and even a study. It leant itself well to holding meetings in the living room while the children could be in a separate family room.

Three years previously the church had purchased the house and some new furniture. This is the home that John and Peg saw, as we enjoyed getting acquainted with them.

John would tell us later he was struck by the contrast between our current home and the one we’d be moving into—with approximately 1200 square feet of living space and long-outdated furniture. 

Storage would be another problem, given the insufficient kitchen cabinets, small closets, the detached garage (where bugs and critters could create havoc), no attic, and of course no basement in Florida.

John knew the time had come to provide their pastor a home similar to what other professionals with three-year advanced degrees own, that met the scripture-directive of “double honor for those preaching and teaching” (1 Timothy 5:17).

But John had to wait for the committee to meet and funding to be appropriated.

Soon after John’s and Peg’s visit, Steve and I traveled across-state to tour their church and parsonage. That’s when we realized some of the challenges to come—in the deficient housing provided and in the church situation.

On the way home, we heard Jeremiah 29:11 quoted on the radio:  

Days later, a devotional suggested repeating “all the promises from God’s Word you can remember.” I determined to write in my journal as many as I could find that fit our circumstances. including:

I knew God would enable the five of us to thrive in the small house, or he’d provide another home. But I struggled with “what-ifs.”

Meanwhile, John rallied the staff-parish committee; they voted “yes” for a new parsonage. A week later, the administrative board passed a resolution to purchase a four-bedroom house and allocate funds for some new furniture.

Still to come: a church-wide vote, with the district superintendent presiding.

Of course, a few hiccups occurred. After one disappointment, I wrote: “We still have our promises from our never-failing God. . . I put my trust in You, Lord, by an act of my will, not by what I see happening! 

“You know our needs, you know what’s best for this church. Guide us into Your plan in Your timing, and give us wisdom and grace to accept whatever You have for us. We do want what you want!”

And I copied more scripture-promises.

In mid-June, the move into the small house went smoothly.

A week later the church-wide conference voted by a wide margin to relocate their parsonage. 

Mid-July our daughter and I flew to Austin, Texas to meet my newborn nephew. Steve called one evening to say a suitable house had been found, similar to our previous home but a bit smaller at 1800 square feet. The kids would love the pool. 

I trusted Steve’s appraisal, and agreed the church should make an offer.

As our children started school, we were settling into our new home—just two blocks down the street.

Image credits: http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.canva.com (3).

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Life and Scripture Entwined

Posted in Blessings, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, Joy, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on December 18, 2025| 38 Comments »

This question popped into my head recently:

If we connected a scripture verse to one blessed event for each month of 2025, what might we include?

Here’s a portion of the Ruegg list:

JANUARY—

Upon leaving worship one Sunday, we were greeted by heavy snowfall. The predominately pure-white scene provided a reminder that “Great is our Lord and mighty in power . . . He spreads his snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes” (Psalm 147:5a, 16 NIV).

MARCH—

Our twelve-year-old granddaughter and her parents faced the decision of which school she should attend for grades 7-12.

Then, they just happened to sit in church near a family whose son attends one of the schools on their list, and the subject just happened to come up during the meet-and-greet time.

The positive conversation helped make clear God’s choice, illustrating once again, he does indeed show us which path to take (Proverbs 3:6 NLT).

APRIL—

A memorable Easter feast at our son’s and D-I-L’s home. Family and friends contributed parts of the meal, served in courses. In between each we enjoyed readings, prayers, and song–dining and fellowshipping for four hours!

Perhaps we followed—in part—the example of the early church: “They devoted themselves to . . . fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and prayers” (Acts 2:42 CSB).

JUNE—

Our oldest granddaughter (17) participated in a week-long science program at the University of Cincinnati. She and our daughter stayed with us. S. loved the course; H. and I enjoyed quality mother/daughter time.

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him” (Psalm 127:3).

JULY—

What a delightful morning with the Hippos! (That’s the Toddler 2 class at church.) The best part: Elliott wanted to be held and Luca took my hand on the way back from the playground. “No doubt about it: children are a gift from the Lord” (Psalm 127:3 CEB)—even if they belong to others!

The joy on this woman’s face expresses mine

AUGUST—

The visit of old friends produced much reminiscing, laughter, and heart-to-heart conversation. “Sweet friendship refreshes the soul” (Proverbs 27:9 MSG).

SEPTEMBER—

A blog post this month lacked a good conclusion, and then the morning of posting an idea popped into my brain. I knew exactly where it came from. “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17a), including ideas!

OCTOBER—

Times spent with our granddaughters provide some of our best blessings: sleepovers, movie nights, playing games, crafting, and more.

“Grandchildren are the pride and joy of old age” (Proverbs 17:6 ERV).

NOVEMBER—

Multiple errands one week allowed me to enjoy numerous stellar vistas of the fall foliage. Surely autumn is the time when “the forest sings for joy before the Lord” (1 Chronicles 16:33) most passionately!

And to sum up the whole year:

“How abundant are the good things God has stored up for those who fear him” (Psalm 34:19)! We give thanks to him with all our hearts (Psalm 9:1a).

[No doubt some of you recognized this post—it’s the Ruegg Report for 2025, inserted in our Christmas cards. Writing once and “publishing” twice helped streamline the pre-Christmas to-do list. I knew you’d understand!]

Image credits: http://www.openclipart.org; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.freerangestock.com; http://www.pexels.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org.

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A Thanksgiving Prayer

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, Meditation, Prayer, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on November 27, 2025| 40 Comments »

On this cloud-shrouded, Thanksgiving morning,

I pause in the candlelight to thank and praise You, O Lord–

for family and friends, food and clothing,

a cozy home and delightful blessings

we never even thought to ask for.

These are benevolences we see, touch, and hear.

One blessing we never thought to ask for: a trip to Israel in 1994, travel and lodging expenses paid for.

But I also want to thank you for those gifts

that only the senses of the heart can perceive—

blessings that include your eternal faithfulness,

as expansive and enduring as the skies,

and your loving devotion, as measureless as

the far reaches of the cosmos.

I thank you for your alert attentiveness,

keeping watch over me as I come and go,

for your abundant goodness which you store up

for those who fear you and take refuge in you,

for your wisdom that knows what to accomplish and when,

what to give and what to withhold.

I thank you for your compassionate mercy

that offers a fresh start each day,

your transforming grace that takes the sand of troubles

and creates pearls of lustrous steadfastness and stability.

I praise you for your strength that “turns my mush into might.”

When I’m weary in spirit, you prop me up and propel me forward.

 I thank you for your Word that instructs in the ways of abundant living,

guiding me along the right path as I internalize your truths.

I thank you for its encouragement when my spirit falters,

providing hope through the promises that cannot fail

and in the knowledge of who you are, our holy and perfect Father.

Your Word is “an anchor of truth in a sea of lies.”

“Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to you O God, for ever and ever. Amen” (Revelation 7:12)!

* * * * *

Now it’s your turn! What would you add to this gratitude list that specifically celebrates God? Add your praise in the comment section below!

Scriptures and other sources:

  • Verse 2: Psalm 36:5; 108:4
  • Verse 3: Psalm 121:8 NLT; 31:19; Proverbs 2:6
  • Verse 4: Lamentations 3:22-23; Romans 5:3-5; Anita Donihue, When I’m in His Presence, 52; Isaiah 40:29-31

Image credits: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net (Sheila Brown); http://www.commonswikipedia.org (Edmund Nigel Gail); http://www.canva.com; http://www.dailyverses.net (2); commonswikipedia.org (Marcus Bengtsson).

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Even at a Parade

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , on July 17, 2025| 49 Comments »

Behind our home stand many large trees that border a small creek bed. As the sun sets, fireflies rise from the grass and undergrowth, slowly soaring higher and higher until the trees appear decorated for Christmas.

Hundreds of glimmering lights sparkle against the deep dark of night.

God’s creative handiwork, right in our own backyard.

*     *     *     *     *

On the Fourth of July our family attended the local Independence Day parade. While waiting for the festivities to begin, a young boy seated next to us chatted with me every now and then.

One time he commented, “Wow! There’s not even one cloud in the sk___ . . . Wait a minute. There’s a little one over there.”

We both studied the wisp of vapor for a moment. “It’s disappearing already,” he added.

Together we witnessed the last visible curl evaporate away.   My attention returned to people-watching.

Moments later the boy suddenly cried out, “There it is again!”

Sure enough, the water droplets had regathered themselves.

It was then I noticed a phenomenon that I’d missed before. In the area of that little cloud was a faint veil of fog, barely visible. Millions, perhaps billions of water droplets were suspended there all along.

The boy and I only noticed them when they drew together in a dense gathering.

Watching the cloud reform, the boy exclaimed, “Cool!”  Cool indeed.

God’s ingenious engineering of the elements, right above the street.

*     *   *     *     *

After dinner recently Steve said, “I’ll do the dishes.”

Now lots of husbands probably do the dishes now and then. But do they also do the cooking? My Steve does! He actually enjoys it, and almost always takes care of the cleanup, too. (Sorry, he’s not for sale.)

God’s love expressed to me through my caring husband, right there in our kitchen.

*     *     *     *     *

Our toddler granddaughter loves the swings at the park. “Weeee!” she squeals with each push.  For her it’s a new, exciting delight.

Actually, Elena’s days are filled with new discoveries: the ping-sound of a metal post when struck with a stick, the mystery of bubbles that disappear with a touch, the slow, spiral dance of a dropped feather.

Her eyes sparkle; her smiles and laughter indicate intense pleasure.

God’s gift of joy on display right in our own family.

*     *     *     *     *

And paying attention to all of these manifestations makes me more aware of his presence.

And awareness of his presence changes my heart.

Stress gives way to peace, tedium gives way to joy, striving gives way to contentment, fear gives way to consolation.

And surely God must smile when we live aware and celebrate his gracious provision.

*     *     *     *     *

I praise you, Father, for reminding me of your active, loving presence throughout each day, everywhere I go — even at a parade.  Thank you for ministering to my needs, assuaging my fears, comforting my hurts, and giving me joy.  What a gracious God you are!

Image credits: http://www.wikimediacommons.org (Sushanth2212); www. wikimediacommons.org (GerritR); http://www.flickr.com (Ryan Lee); Nancy Ruegg.

(I do apologize for reblogging again, this time from July 17, 2014. We’ve had one commitment, event, or appointment, one after another for the last week.)

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Glory and Strength

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Strength, God-Given Abilities, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , on May 22, 2025| 30 Comments »

Late spring, 1961, President John F. Kennedy and his wife Jackie visited France. He’d only been in office four months, but already the world had embraced the refined and fashionable First Lady.

Upon arrival in Paris, people lined the streets and shouted, “Vive Jackie!”

And as the week unfolded, she impressed them further with her knowledge of French history and culture and her command of their language, polished to perfection at the Sorbonne during her junior year of college.

With dignitaries Jackie proved to be articulate, diplomatic, and a good listener. She especially charmed their president, Charles DeGaulle.

President Kennedy, on the other hand, received a cool reception from his French counterpart. The two had not seen eye-to-eye on certain policies. Jackie helped pave the way for diplomacy between them.

At a state dinner held in the Palace of Versailles, JFK famously introduced himself as “the man who accompanied Jacqueline Kennedy to Paris. And I have enjoyed it.”

The Hall of Mirrors where the dinner took place

Today, many still remember Jackie’s iconic style, her gentle demeanor, and stalwart courage following President Kennedy’s tragic death. But she will also “go down in history . . . for creating a dominant soft power dynamic in American politics” [1].

We also admire the way JFK humbly honored his wife at that state dinner. He appreciated her strengths that provided great benefit to him.

With this example in mind (although a weak one compared to what it illustrates!), we might understand more clearly what the psalmist meant when he wrote that God is the glory and strength of those who put their faith in him:

“Strength” we more readily understand. Many of us have experienced God’s power upholding us through crises and augmenting our efforts to serve him. But glory? What did the psalmist mean by “God is their glory?”

Perhaps the following comparisons will make the meaning clearer.

  • Even more than the great benefit Jackie provided to her husband, God provides abundant benefit to us.
  • As Jack gloried in Jackie, honoring her and acknowledging her worth, we glory in God.
  • As Jackie made the visit to France a glowing success, so God makes his people glow with success—that is, prosperity of soul, contentment of heart, and peace of mind.

JFK understood it was Jackie who exalted his position with DeGaulle and the French people. Similarly, we need to acknowledge that our sovereign God is the one who exalts us.

We don’t have to push and strive to prove ourselves; we can rest in all the glorious attributes of our Heavenly Father, lavished upon us for our benefit [2].

But like all analogies, this one involving the Kennedys breaks down, because no one is like our God.

Beyond the examples given above to explain how God is our glory, consider these truths:

God’s magnificence

God’s infinite power gives impetus to all his perfections in our lives. After all, what good would his perfect wisdom do without the wherewithal to execute it? His unfailing mercy without the ability to apply it? His infallible promises without the capability to keep them [3]?

God’s enabling work in our lives

God’s incomparable strength is instilled in us as we rely upon him. The result? We begin to display the glory of his attributes, including: patience in the midst of stress, kindness in response to rudeness, and self-control in the face of frustration [4].  

God’s power

God specializes in the impossible. Nothing is too great for his almighty power; nothing is too small for his love. Enter God’s realm where everything is possible [5]!

Of course there are many more facets to God’s glory. And this splendorous God of wonders is our strength—even if we don’t feel tough enough, talented enough, smart enough, or engaging enough for the path ahead—even if circumstances seem against us.

That last state of affairs must have been President Kennedy’s perception as he and Jackie left for France. Little did he know how Jackie would transform their visit.

By contrast we KNOW God’s capabilities of transformation! The evidence is in scripture, history, in the lives of those around us, and in our own experience.

Therefore, let’s remember:

Praise be to God, our glory and strength!

[1] https://uscpublicdiplomacy.org/blog/jackie-kennedy-public-diplomacy-camelot

[2] Another post about God’s attributes: Rooted/

[3] 2 Peter 1:3

[4] 2 Corinthians 12:9; Ephesians 1:15

[5] Based on a quote of Corrie ten Boom, Holocaust survivor

Image credits: http://www.deviantart.com (Kralj Aleksandar); http://www.boudewijnhuijgens.getarchive.net; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.dailyverses.net (2); http://www.canva.com (2).

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The Restful Life

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Presence, God's Promises, God's Protection, God's Provision, God's Strength, God's Wisdom, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on May 8, 2025| 32 Comments »

We’ve all known people who push themselves hard all day long until they fall into bed at night. Their lists and schedules make sure they use every minute to the fullest.

And though efficiency experts might be impressed by their productivity, it’s likely these ultra Type-A folks are harming themselves—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

The truth is, “Renewal and restoration are not luxuries, they are essentials. Being alone and resting for a while is not selfish; it is Christlike.” Even Jesus took time away to be with his Father [1].

Also important to understand: Rest is an attitude of the heart amidst the responsibilities of the day.  It’s not “some holy feeling that comes upon us in church. It is a state of calm rising from a heart deeply and firmly established in God” [2].

The restful life begins in trusting God, and he’s given us plenty of good reasons to do so:

 OUR GOD PERFORMS RIGHTEOUS DEEDS AND MIGHTY ACTS (Psalm 71:16-18)

OUR GOD HELPS IN NUMEROUS WAYS (Psalm 27:9)

He supplies our needs, guides our decisions, strengthens our spirits, and more.

In addition, his power is at work to help us “understand his love, live a life worthy of our calling, bear fruit in every good work, endure with patience, live a life of thanksgiving, escape the corruption caused by evil desires and overflow with hope” [3].

In other words, he helps us experience the God-enhanced life that truly satisfies our souls.

OUR GOD PROTECTS HIS PEOPLE (Psalm 3:8 CEV)

It’s not his way to protect us from all pain and trouble. Instead, he grants us stamina and strength of spirit to endure, growing us into maturity.

OUR GOD LAVISHES US WITH HIS LOVE (Psalm 86:13)

His compassionate care is expressed as “His wisdom is our direction, His knowledge, our instruction, His power, our protection, His justice, our surety, His love, our comfort, and His mercy, our solace. He holds back nothing from us” [4].

OUR GOD BESTOWS BLESSINGS, BENEFITS, AND GOODNESS (Psalm 103:1, 5)

OUR GOD FULFILLS HIS PROMISES (Psalm 145:13b)

But how can we be sure of that?

“The permanence of God’s character guarantees the fulfillment of his promises” [5].

OUR GOD ANSWERS WHEN WE CALL (Psalm 86:7)

To rest in spite of a “No” or “Wait” answer surely gives indication how well we trust.

These seven assurances of God’s influence in our lives certainly offer wonderful encouragement. But they won’t contribute to spiritual rest unless we “grasp them by faith, plead them by prayer, expect them by hope, and receive them by gratitude” [6].

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

O Lord, I bow before you in wonder that you, the God of the universe, with your infinite power and glory, would provide all these blessings and benefits for me.

Thank you for your gracious benevolence. Help me to REST in these truths, knowing that you have everything under control and you will see me through until I’m home with you.

[1] Chuck Swindoll, The Quest for Character, 49; Luke 6:12.

[2] Henry Drummond, quoted in Streams in the Desert, Jim Reiman, ed., 232.

[3] Melissa Krueger, The Envy of Eve, 104.

[4] Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 141.

[5] A. W. Pink, http://www.gracequotes.org.

[6] Charles Spurgeon

Image credits: http://www.stackcake.com; http://www.canva.com (5).

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Look What I Did!

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on March 13, 2025| 36 Comments »

“Look what I did!” declares the proud preschooler, pointing to a plate of chocolate chip cookies. Except she didn’t make them—not without a lot of help.

Nana read the recipe; she couldn’t read yet.

Nana gathered most of the ingredients; the child couldn’t reach up into the cabinets.

Nana picked the eggshell-pieces out of the bowl after exuberant egg-tapping on the rim.

Nana helped to accurately measure ingredients and thoroughly scrape the bowl.

Nana adjusted the dollops of dough on the cookie sheet, making them similar-sized for even baking.

Nana put the cookies in the oven and later retrieved them, then set them on cooling racks so little hands didn’t get burned.

And yet the preschooler thinks she made the cookies.

We might chuckle at her unrealistic view of the circumstances, until the realization dawns: we’ve exhibited our own unrealistic view of our circumstances with God.

Perhaps, like me, you’ve run ahead of God, assuming you can handle the challenge ahead. I’ve also been guilty of taking credit when, in reality, my efforts would be worthless without him.

Truth be told, not a moment goes by that God is not helping us in one way or another.

Sometimes his help is demonstrated in monumental ways, as he attends to situations outside our range of capability or influence. I’ve written about such experiences in our family.*

Sometimes God comes alongside in ways that are more easily overlooked. For example:

  • One of those times when I was plagued by writer’s block, I sensed God telling me, “Wait till morning. Rest.” Immediately upon waking, an idea occurred.
  • God settled a bout of sciatica, and I was able to accomplish everything necessary before house guests arrived.
  • Joy-filled, supportive friendships have spanned the years of our lives.
  • Sometimes God brings to mind a bit of his wisdom or an anecdote to share, and the listener expresses sincere appreciation.
  • Those close calls on the roadways offer perfect examples of his intervention.
  • On occasion, sacred insight comes in the form of a quote:

Oh yes, I need God’s help not to become proud (“Look how God has blessed ME!”), greedy (“Thanks for your all blessings, Lord, but I need this too!”), or take for granted God’s benevolence and never thank him at all.

In addition, God would have us understand:

His help often comes gradually.  Think of:

  • Joseph, languishing in prison until Pharoah calls for him to interpret his dream (Exodus 39:19-41:43)
  • David, living as a fugitive until God fulfills his promise to make him king (1 Samuel 16-31; 2 Samuel 1-2)
  • The Israelite captives, waiting in Babylon for God to raise up a leader (Nehemiah 1-2)

Remember:

He often helps when we least expect it.

Think of:

  • The widow of Zarephath, expecting to die during famine—until the prophet Elijah arrives (1 Kings 17:7-16)
  • Daniel, expecting to die in the lions’ den–until God shut their mouths (Daniel 6)
  • Jonah, expecting to die within the great fish—until his release on dry ground (Jonah 2)

In addition:

God’s help always comes to those with faith.

The psalmists offer a starter-list of affirmations:

  • “Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you” (Psalm 37:5 NLT).
  • “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1 NIV).
  • “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:2).

May we live by such truths, and when help materializes, may we be quick to proclaim, “Look with GOD did!”

How has God helped you? Please share in the comments below!

* Examples include: Come and See What God Has Done, After the Fact, and God of the Unexpected (see the illustration at the end for this last one).

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

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