'What a man desires is unfailing love;'
[Proverb 19:22a]
Truth.
And I have it.
But I want more.
March 31, 2009
March 30, 2009
Ch. 381 - Godly Sorrow
'Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while - yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.'
[2 Corinthians 7:8-11]
[2 Corinthians 7:8-11]
March 29, 2009
Ch. 380 - Open the Door!
'Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.'
[Revelation 3:20]
What a wondrous thought.
[Revelation 3:20]
What a wondrous thought.
March 28, 2009
Ch. 379 - Belief
' "If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him..." '
[John 11:48]
' "... Look how the whole world has gone after him!" '
[John 12:19]
The Pharisees were right about a couple of things, that's for sure. Or at least made some pretty acute observations.
[John 11:48]
' "... Look how the whole world has gone after him!" '
[John 12:19]
The Pharisees were right about a couple of things, that's for sure. Or at least made some pretty acute observations.
March 27, 2009
Ch. 378 - More than Willing
I am willing to go.
Am I ready?
No.
But I am willing.
My life does not matter.
It does not matter.
I know God.
I love God.
God knows me.
God loves me.
And I am glad.
But there are multitudes of people who do not know God. Who do not know of His love, or His Son. They know of this life, and that's it. Perhaps all they know is hatred. Or persecution. Or anger. Or hurt.
That is not right.
That is not how God intended for it to be.
And these people are dying and going to hell.
Maybe they're searching for something more.
For something that can take away hatred and hurt.
For something that can save them.
But they can't find it.
They don't know what that "something" is.
I have love for people I don't even know. My heart breaks for these people. So I can't even begin to imagine how God must feel. After all, they were created by Him.
How much longer can I stand to not be an active messenger of the Good News?
'The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.'
[2 Peter 3:9]
Am I ready?
No.
But I am willing.
My life does not matter.
It does not matter.
I know God.
I love God.
God knows me.
God loves me.
And I am glad.
But there are multitudes of people who do not know God. Who do not know of His love, or His Son. They know of this life, and that's it. Perhaps all they know is hatred. Or persecution. Or anger. Or hurt.
That is not right.
That is not how God intended for it to be.
And these people are dying and going to hell.
Maybe they're searching for something more.
For something that can take away hatred and hurt.
For something that can save them.
But they can't find it.
They don't know what that "something" is.
I have love for people I don't even know. My heart breaks for these people. So I can't even begin to imagine how God must feel. After all, they were created by Him.
How much longer can I stand to not be an active messenger of the Good News?
'The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.'
[2 Peter 3:9]
March 26, 2009
Ch. 377 - In the End
The following is an excerpt of a story in a book I am reading titled Kitchen Table Wisdom by Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D. Dr. Remen explains that she was invited to give a talk about her work with cancer patients to a group of women physicians. The women discuss how they find it difficult to care for dying patients. Dr. Remen then remarks that it became clearer that they were more uncomfortable caring for the patients as doctors than as women.
'As women, we knew there was something simple and natural in just being there, together. Slowly some insights emerged. Women have always been present at these times, at death and birth and in many of the other transitions in life. Women have gathered at the transitions, as comforters and companions, as witnesses, to mark the importance of the moment.
One of the physicians talked about caring for her dying mother when she was nineteen years old. She had expected a great deal less of herself then. At first she had driven her mother to her doctor's appointments, shopped for food, and run errands. As her mother grew weaker, she had prepared tempting meals and cleaned the house. When her mother stopped eating, she had listened to her and read to her for hours. When her mother slipped into a coma, she had changed her sheets, bathed her, and rubbed her back with lotion. There always seemed something more to do. A way to care. These ways became simpler and simpler. "In the end," she told us, "I just held her and sang." '
......
Beautiful.
......
First of all, I'd like to mention that I, myself, am nineteen years old. This was a very difficult passage to read. But it was good for me. I think it illustrates the idea of God being a comforter and companion and witness really well. He is with us throughout our lives, whether we acknowledge it or not. He is there through the pain, the sorrow, the joy, the ease. He knows us and loves us, much like a mother knows and loves her daughter - or a daughter knows and loves her mother. Our God is with us until the very end of our lives. During those last months, weeks, and days, we may not ask much of Him - especially if death is unexpected and sudden - but He is willing to do more than we could ever ask for (after all, He sent us His Son to die for us on a cross, right?). But you know, it's actually quite easy to imagine myself as the mother in the passage... and God as the daughter. I mean, God takes care of me. He really would do anything for me. He would set things in order. Make me comfortable. Simply help. And when it was time to go, He'd take me in His arms, much like one would a child, and sing to me. God. After all my years of singing to Him... He would sing to me. God. The true Comforter. God. The true Companion. God. The true Witness.
'May my cry come before you,
O Lord;
give me understanding according to
your word.
May my supplication come before
you;
deliver me according to your
promise.
May my lips overflow with praise,
for you teach me your decrees.
May my tongue sing of your word,
for all your commands are
righteous.
May your hand be ready to help me,
for I have chosen your precepts.
I long for your salvation, O Lord,
and your law is my delight.
Let me live that I may praise you,
and may your laws sustain me.
I have strayed like a lost sheep.
Seek your servant,
for I have not forgotten your
commands.'
[Psalm 119:169-176]
'As women, we knew there was something simple and natural in just being there, together. Slowly some insights emerged. Women have always been present at these times, at death and birth and in many of the other transitions in life. Women have gathered at the transitions, as comforters and companions, as witnesses, to mark the importance of the moment.
One of the physicians talked about caring for her dying mother when she was nineteen years old. She had expected a great deal less of herself then. At first she had driven her mother to her doctor's appointments, shopped for food, and run errands. As her mother grew weaker, she had prepared tempting meals and cleaned the house. When her mother stopped eating, she had listened to her and read to her for hours. When her mother slipped into a coma, she had changed her sheets, bathed her, and rubbed her back with lotion. There always seemed something more to do. A way to care. These ways became simpler and simpler. "In the end," she told us, "I just held her and sang." '
......
Beautiful.
......
First of all, I'd like to mention that I, myself, am nineteen years old. This was a very difficult passage to read. But it was good for me. I think it illustrates the idea of God being a comforter and companion and witness really well. He is with us throughout our lives, whether we acknowledge it or not. He is there through the pain, the sorrow, the joy, the ease. He knows us and loves us, much like a mother knows and loves her daughter - or a daughter knows and loves her mother. Our God is with us until the very end of our lives. During those last months, weeks, and days, we may not ask much of Him - especially if death is unexpected and sudden - but He is willing to do more than we could ever ask for (after all, He sent us His Son to die for us on a cross, right?). But you know, it's actually quite easy to imagine myself as the mother in the passage... and God as the daughter. I mean, God takes care of me. He really would do anything for me. He would set things in order. Make me comfortable. Simply help. And when it was time to go, He'd take me in His arms, much like one would a child, and sing to me. God. After all my years of singing to Him... He would sing to me. God. The true Comforter. God. The true Companion. God. The true Witness.
'May my cry come before you,
O Lord;
give me understanding according to
your word.
May my supplication come before
you;
deliver me according to your
promise.
May my lips overflow with praise,
for you teach me your decrees.
May my tongue sing of your word,
for all your commands are
righteous.
May your hand be ready to help me,
for I have chosen your precepts.
I long for your salvation, O Lord,
and your law is my delight.
Let me live that I may praise you,
and may your laws sustain me.
I have strayed like a lost sheep.
Seek your servant,
for I have not forgotten your
commands.'
[Psalm 119:169-176]
March 25, 2009
Ch. 376 - Relying on God
A bit of conflict now and then is not always a bad thing.
It makes you realize what is truly important in life.
And for me, that's God.
Even though I feel like I've been getting closer to Him and things are going really well, I think God knew I needed that extra push. So He gave it to me... by taking something away.
And I'm glad.
It hurts.
... But it's okay.
'Many are the woes of the wicked, but the Lord's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him. Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart.'
[Psalm 32:10-11]
It makes you realize what is truly important in life.
And for me, that's God.
Even though I feel like I've been getting closer to Him and things are going really well, I think God knew I needed that extra push. So He gave it to me... by taking something away.
And I'm glad.
It hurts.
... But it's okay.
'Many are the woes of the wicked, but the Lord's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him. Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart.'
[Psalm 32:10-11]
March 24, 2009
Ch. 375 - The Game
A friend of mine is starting a game tomorrow. The game will not end at the end of the day, week, or month. It will not end for quite some time. It is a simple game, with basically no rules. It is played via text messaging; it is a 'quiz' game. It is a game of relatively few words and basically no action - until we put the game to use and apply it to our lives.
You see, one person texts another a verse from the Bible, or half a verse. It is then up to the receiver to respond by saying where in the Bible the verse is, or the second part of the verse. We're not to use a Bible to look up the verse. You can have a couple guesses. But if, in the end, we don't know it, then we don't know it - and so we tell the initial sender that we give up. They will then proceed to let us know what the 'answer' is.
I'm really excited to start this. I think that we will often find that the verses which are sent will be verses that will truly help us throughout the day. They will be verses that we are needing to hear. I mean, we could all use a little encouragement throughout the day, right? I think God will really be able to work through this game. And it will be really beneficial, hopefully, in getting Scriptures into our minds and hearts continually. We should be doing our best to know God's word inside and out. This is one more way to let it be so.
'All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.'
[2 Timothy 3:16-17]
You see, one person texts another a verse from the Bible, or half a verse. It is then up to the receiver to respond by saying where in the Bible the verse is, or the second part of the verse. We're not to use a Bible to look up the verse. You can have a couple guesses. But if, in the end, we don't know it, then we don't know it - and so we tell the initial sender that we give up. They will then proceed to let us know what the 'answer' is.
I'm really excited to start this. I think that we will often find that the verses which are sent will be verses that will truly help us throughout the day. They will be verses that we are needing to hear. I mean, we could all use a little encouragement throughout the day, right? I think God will really be able to work through this game. And it will be really beneficial, hopefully, in getting Scriptures into our minds and hearts continually. We should be doing our best to know God's word inside and out. This is one more way to let it be so.
'All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.'
[2 Timothy 3:16-17]
March 23, 2009
Ch. 374 - Is There No One?
'The Lord looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God.'
[Psalm 14:2]
Question:
Is He disappointed?
[Psalm 14:2]
Question:
Is He disappointed?
March 22, 2009
Ch. 373 - Tough Love
How do you confront someone with an addiction?
I don't know. I've never had to. Never needed to.
At least this isn't an addiction to substances.
But addiction is addiction.
Honestly, though... how do I go about this? It should be laid out on the table. In Christ's love, it truly needs to be dealt with, before the problem gets worse. He's upset. He doesn't know what to do. None of us do.
Responsibility.
Whose is it?
What does it entail?
Practicality.
How do you learn it?
Or, how do you teach it?
Necessity.
Where do you draw the line?
Who decides what it is?
Not everything can be spoon-fed to us. Some things in life need to be learned the hard way. This may be one of them. God may be the only one Who can truly see us over our obstacles and uphold us in His hands, but I like to think that we can help our brothers and sisters through their trials by continuing to love and encourage them.
'My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.'
[Proverbs 3:11-12]
I don't know. I've never had to. Never needed to.
At least this isn't an addiction to substances.
But addiction is addiction.
Honestly, though... how do I go about this? It should be laid out on the table. In Christ's love, it truly needs to be dealt with, before the problem gets worse. He's upset. He doesn't know what to do. None of us do.
Responsibility.
Whose is it?
What does it entail?
Practicality.
How do you learn it?
Or, how do you teach it?
Necessity.
Where do you draw the line?
Who decides what it is?
Not everything can be spoon-fed to us. Some things in life need to be learned the hard way. This may be one of them. God may be the only one Who can truly see us over our obstacles and uphold us in His hands, but I like to think that we can help our brothers and sisters through their trials by continuing to love and encourage them.
'My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.'
[Proverbs 3:11-12]
March 21, 2009
Ch. 372 - Justice for All?
Something my mom said to me a couple weeks ago has really been making me think. It's one of those things that I wouldn't have noticed or been able to tell you until it was pointed out to me. Apparently, I've always been one for justice. Equality. I like people to be treated fairly. Righteously.
We are all the same in God's eyes; no one is better than another. My sins are no less than that of the murderer, rapist, or thief. But when it comes to treating people like they are sub-human based on their intelligence, gender, home life background, what they say, what they do, their level of so-called "normality", etc... I can become pretty upset. When someone is singled out - especially when they aren't even aware that it is happening - in a mean or unjust manner, something inside me just wells up and I feel either immensely sad or infuriated. I want to stand up and scream, you know? Or at the very least say something to the perpetrator... but I rarely have the courage to say anything. It's when the Holy Spirit encourages me that I dare do anything. But even then, what good are my words? What can I do to help? I feel as if I am powerless. There are so many people in this world who are attacked on a daily basis.
It happens in the United States of America.
It happens in Missouri.
It happens in Moberly.
It even happens in classrooms at Central Christian College of the Bible.
People are not good enough.
People are stupid.
People are nuisances.
People are worthless.
People are not loved.
They are lied to every day.
And that is not right.
That is not fair.
'But let justice roll down like waters
And righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.'
[Amos 5:24, NASB]
We are all the same in God's eyes; no one is better than another. My sins are no less than that of the murderer, rapist, or thief. But when it comes to treating people like they are sub-human based on their intelligence, gender, home life background, what they say, what they do, their level of so-called "normality", etc... I can become pretty upset. When someone is singled out - especially when they aren't even aware that it is happening - in a mean or unjust manner, something inside me just wells up and I feel either immensely sad or infuriated. I want to stand up and scream, you know? Or at the very least say something to the perpetrator... but I rarely have the courage to say anything. It's when the Holy Spirit encourages me that I dare do anything. But even then, what good are my words? What can I do to help? I feel as if I am powerless. There are so many people in this world who are attacked on a daily basis.
It happens in the United States of America.
It happens in Missouri.
It happens in Moberly.
It even happens in classrooms at Central Christian College of the Bible.
People are not good enough.
People are stupid.
People are nuisances.
People are worthless.
People are not loved.
They are lied to every day.
And that is not right.
That is not fair.
'But let justice roll down like waters
And righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.'
[Amos 5:24, NASB]
March 20, 2009
Ch. 371 - Appreciation
' "Comfort, comfort my people," says your God.'
[Isaiah 40:1]
Isn't that just beautiful?
[Isaiah 40:1]
Isn't that just beautiful?
March 19, 2009
Ch. 370 - A Desire to Please
This was the devotional that I received today. It was really uplifting and a great reminder to simply live my life for God as the person He created me.
God Smiles When We Use Our Abilities
'After the flood, God gave Noah these simple instructions: "Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth. Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything." (Genesis 9:1,3 NIV)
God said, "It's time to get on with your life! Do the things I designed humans to do. Make love to your spouse. Have babies. Raise families. Plant crops and eat meals. This is what I made you to be!"
You may feel that the only time God is pleased with you is when you're doing "spiritual" activities like reading the Bible, attending church, praying, or sharing your faith, and that he is unconcerned about the other parts of your life. Actually, God enjoys watching everything you do, whether you are working, playing, resting, or eating. The Bible tells us, "The steps of the godly are directed by the LORD. He delights in every detail of their lives." (Psalm 37:23 NLT)
God especially enjoys watching you use the talents and abilities he has given you. God intentionally gifted each of us differently for his enjoyment. You may be gifted at mechanics or mathematics or music or a thousand other skills. All of these activities can bring a smile to God's face.
You don't bring glory or pleasure to God by hiding your abilities or by trying to be someone else. You only bring him enjoyment by being you. Anytime you reject any part of yourself, you are rejecting God's wisdom and sovereignty in creating you. God says, "You have no right to argue with your Creator. You are merely a clay pot shaped by a potter. The clay doesn't ask, 'Why did you make me this way?'" (Isaiah 45:9 CEV)
In the film Chariots of Fire, Olympic runner Eric Liddell says, "I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast, and when I run, I feel God's pleasure." Later he says, "To give up running would be to hold him in contempt." There are no unspiritual abilities, just misused ones. Start using yours for God's pleasure.
God also gains pleasure in watching you enjoy his creation. He gave you eyes to enjoy beauty, ears to enjoy sounds and music, your nose and taste buds to enjoy smells and tastes, and the nerves under your skin to enjoy touch. Every act of enjoyment becomes an act of worship when you thank God for it. In fact, the Bible says, "God generously gives us everything for our enjoyment." (1 Timothy 6:17 TEV)
God even enjoys watching you sleep! When my children were small, I remember the deep satisfaction of watching them sleep. They looked contented, secure, and peaceful, and I was reminded of how much I loved them. When you are sleeping, God gazes at you with love, because you were his idea.
Parents do not require their children to be perfect, or even mature, in order to enjoy them. They enjoy them at every stage of development. In the same way, God doesn't wait for you to reach maturity before he starts liking you. He loves and enjoys you at every stage of your spiritual development.
You may have had unpleasable teachers or parents as you were growing up. Please don't assume God feels that way about you. He knows you are incapable of being perfect or sinless (1 John 1:8).
What God looks at is the attitude of your heart: Is pleasing him your deepest desire? This was Paul's life goal: "More than anything else, however, we want to please him..." (2 Corinthians 5:9 TEV)
When you live in light of eternity, your focus changes from "How much pleasure am I getting out of life?" to "How much pleasure is God getting out of my life?"
God is looking for people like Noah in the 21st century—people willing to live for the pleasure of God. The Bible says, "The Lord looks down from heaven on all mankind to see if there are any who are wise, who want to please God (Psalm 14:2 LB).
Will you make pleasing God the goal of your life? There is nothing that God won't do for the person totally absorbed with this goal.'
God Smiles When We Use Our Abilities
'After the flood, God gave Noah these simple instructions: "Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth. Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything." (Genesis 9:1,3 NIV)
God said, "It's time to get on with your life! Do the things I designed humans to do. Make love to your spouse. Have babies. Raise families. Plant crops and eat meals. This is what I made you to be!"
You may feel that the only time God is pleased with you is when you're doing "spiritual" activities like reading the Bible, attending church, praying, or sharing your faith, and that he is unconcerned about the other parts of your life. Actually, God enjoys watching everything you do, whether you are working, playing, resting, or eating. The Bible tells us, "The steps of the godly are directed by the LORD. He delights in every detail of their lives." (Psalm 37:23 NLT)
God especially enjoys watching you use the talents and abilities he has given you. God intentionally gifted each of us differently for his enjoyment. You may be gifted at mechanics or mathematics or music or a thousand other skills. All of these activities can bring a smile to God's face.
You don't bring glory or pleasure to God by hiding your abilities or by trying to be someone else. You only bring him enjoyment by being you. Anytime you reject any part of yourself, you are rejecting God's wisdom and sovereignty in creating you. God says, "You have no right to argue with your Creator. You are merely a clay pot shaped by a potter. The clay doesn't ask, 'Why did you make me this way?'" (Isaiah 45:9 CEV)
In the film Chariots of Fire, Olympic runner Eric Liddell says, "I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast, and when I run, I feel God's pleasure." Later he says, "To give up running would be to hold him in contempt." There are no unspiritual abilities, just misused ones. Start using yours for God's pleasure.
God also gains pleasure in watching you enjoy his creation. He gave you eyes to enjoy beauty, ears to enjoy sounds and music, your nose and taste buds to enjoy smells and tastes, and the nerves under your skin to enjoy touch. Every act of enjoyment becomes an act of worship when you thank God for it. In fact, the Bible says, "God generously gives us everything for our enjoyment." (1 Timothy 6:17 TEV)
God even enjoys watching you sleep! When my children were small, I remember the deep satisfaction of watching them sleep. They looked contented, secure, and peaceful, and I was reminded of how much I loved them. When you are sleeping, God gazes at you with love, because you were his idea.
Parents do not require their children to be perfect, or even mature, in order to enjoy them. They enjoy them at every stage of development. In the same way, God doesn't wait for you to reach maturity before he starts liking you. He loves and enjoys you at every stage of your spiritual development.
You may have had unpleasable teachers or parents as you were growing up. Please don't assume God feels that way about you. He knows you are incapable of being perfect or sinless (1 John 1:8).
What God looks at is the attitude of your heart: Is pleasing him your deepest desire? This was Paul's life goal: "More than anything else, however, we want to please him..." (2 Corinthians 5:9 TEV)
When you live in light of eternity, your focus changes from "How much pleasure am I getting out of life?" to "How much pleasure is God getting out of my life?"
God is looking for people like Noah in the 21st century—people willing to live for the pleasure of God. The Bible says, "The Lord looks down from heaven on all mankind to see if there are any who are wise, who want to please God (Psalm 14:2 LB).
Will you make pleasing God the goal of your life? There is nothing that God won't do for the person totally absorbed with this goal.'
March 18, 2009
Ch. 369 - God Help Us
'Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.'
[1 Thessalonians 5:15]
Treat others the way you want to be treated.
' "The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' " [Mark 12:31]
Honestly.
Come on, people.
We can do better...
[1 Thessalonians 5:15]
Treat others the way you want to be treated.
' "The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' " [Mark 12:31]
Honestly.
Come on, people.
We can do better...
March 17, 2009
Ch. 368 - Equality in Love
'Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.'
[Philippians 2:1-2, NASB]
God exhorts us.
He counsels us in love.
God comes close to us.
He brings us help and cheer.
The Spirit dwells within us.
It brings us eternal life.
God reaches out to us.
He gives us affection and compassion.
Let our joy be like Paul's: connected to the unity of believers.
Let us think the same way.
Let us love others in the body of Christ equally.
Let us be in harmony.
Please, Lord God, let us give of ourselves sacrificial love.
[Philippians 2:1-2, NASB]
God exhorts us.
He counsels us in love.
God comes close to us.
He brings us help and cheer.
The Spirit dwells within us.
It brings us eternal life.
God reaches out to us.
He gives us affection and compassion.
Let our joy be like Paul's: connected to the unity of believers.
Let us think the same way.
Let us love others in the body of Christ equally.
Let us be in harmony.
Please, Lord God, let us give of ourselves sacrificial love.
March 16, 2009
Ch. 367 - Spring!
New life.
God has given us renewal with the coming of spring.
I love seeing shoots of green bursting through brown soil.
Definitely one of my favorite things to see.
Makes me smile.
' "See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me." '
[Song of Songs 2:11-13]
God has given us renewal with the coming of spring.
I love seeing shoots of green bursting through brown soil.
Definitely one of my favorite things to see.
Makes me smile.
' "See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me." '
[Song of Songs 2:11-13]
March 15, 2009
Ch. 366 - God Blessed
While in a park today, I sat down on a bench and just started talking to God. As I was doing so, I found myself thinking some things that I don't believe were really my thoughts. I hope that makes sense.
Anyway, I was thinking about the future and what God has in store for me. The most prevalent thought was something along the lines of, 'God won't make me do something that I don't love or have the heart for.' Seems like a "Well, duh!" kind of thing, but it honestly didn't click with me until that moment, you know?
I'm really excited to find out, over the years, what I'll be doing for Him. I have a general idea of what I'd like to do, but won't know for sure until... well... later. But God has made me into the person that I am, knowing full well what I will be doing. He has given me a certain personality, strengths, weaknesses, and talents all to equip me to serve Him in such a way that simply works. I will be just the person to do a certain job and that's comforting to know.
'But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me.'
[Psalm 13:5-6]
Anyway, I was thinking about the future and what God has in store for me. The most prevalent thought was something along the lines of, 'God won't make me do something that I don't love or have the heart for.' Seems like a "Well, duh!" kind of thing, but it honestly didn't click with me until that moment, you know?
I'm really excited to find out, over the years, what I'll be doing for Him. I have a general idea of what I'd like to do, but won't know for sure until... well... later. But God has made me into the person that I am, knowing full well what I will be doing. He has given me a certain personality, strengths, weaknesses, and talents all to equip me to serve Him in such a way that simply works. I will be just the person to do a certain job and that's comforting to know.
'But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me.'
[Psalm 13:5-6]
March 14, 2009
Ch. 365 - Peace in the Valley
I've been listening to Johnny Cash all day. He is the only 'country' singer I listen to, and I have my mom to thank for the fact that I listen to him. Two of my favorite songs of his are actually spiritual songs. I've listened to them each a number of times, more than I could ever recall, I'm sure. But today as I was listening to one of them [(There'll Be) Peace in the Valley, written by Thomas Dorsey] it for some reason made me think of Revelation 21:4.
Revelation 21:4 says, ' "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." '
The chorus of the song goes as follows:
'There will be peace in the valley for me, some day.
There will be peace in the valley for me, dear Lord I pray.
There'll be no sadness, no sorrow,
no trouble, I see.
There will be peace in the valley for me (for me).'
I love this, you know? It's just... reassuring. To think of the day when I will not only have complete peace, but also be with my Lord... I can't even begin to imagine what that day will be like.
Revelation 21:4 says, ' "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." '
The chorus of the song goes as follows:
'There will be peace in the valley for me, some day.
There will be peace in the valley for me, dear Lord I pray.
There'll be no sadness, no sorrow,
no trouble, I see.
There will be peace in the valley for me (for me).'
I love this, you know? It's just... reassuring. To think of the day when I will not only have complete peace, but also be with my Lord... I can't even begin to imagine what that day will be like.
March 13, 2009
Ch. 364 - Preparation
'For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.'
[Ephesians 2:10]
When I read this, I get excited. I want God to open doors for me so that I can find out what the good works are that He has prepared for me to do.
Yet when I feel like He's not opening those doors, I wonder why.
I constantly pray for opportunities.
Opportunities to love.
Opportunities to serve.
Opportunities to challenge.
So when I don't feel like I'm getting anywhere, I feel... a bit letdown. A little discouraged, even.
I think we often hear that God won't let us be tempted beyond what we can handle [1 Corinthians 10:13]. But a friend reminded me a couple days ago that God will give you what you can handle... when you can handle it. Do what you know you need to do for now. God will take care of things from there. I think I'm still in a major growing phase and that I need to actually help myself before anyone else. As selfish as that sounds, I believe it's true. I need to better know who Christ is before I can help others know Him. That's a tough realization for someone like me, who doesn't like to focus on what I need and look inwards, then attempt to fulfill those needs. I like to think that I'm good. I know enough. I have enough. But that's so far from the truth that I can barely handle it. So I really do need to turn to God with an empty cup and ask Him to fill it. When I am so focused on Him that I don't realize my cup is overflowing, and He has to say, "Natalie, look!" ... that's when I'll be ready.
[Ephesians 2:10]
When I read this, I get excited. I want God to open doors for me so that I can find out what the good works are that He has prepared for me to do.
Yet when I feel like He's not opening those doors, I wonder why.
I constantly pray for opportunities.
Opportunities to love.
Opportunities to serve.
Opportunities to challenge.
So when I don't feel like I'm getting anywhere, I feel... a bit letdown. A little discouraged, even.
I think we often hear that God won't let us be tempted beyond what we can handle [1 Corinthians 10:13]. But a friend reminded me a couple days ago that God will give you what you can handle... when you can handle it. Do what you know you need to do for now. God will take care of things from there. I think I'm still in a major growing phase and that I need to actually help myself before anyone else. As selfish as that sounds, I believe it's true. I need to better know who Christ is before I can help others know Him. That's a tough realization for someone like me, who doesn't like to focus on what I need and look inwards, then attempt to fulfill those needs. I like to think that I'm good. I know enough. I have enough. But that's so far from the truth that I can barely handle it. So I really do need to turn to God with an empty cup and ask Him to fill it. When I am so focused on Him that I don't realize my cup is overflowing, and He has to say, "Natalie, look!" ... that's when I'll be ready.
March 12, 2009
Ch. 363 - Got Me Thinking
God has everything planned out for us.
He knows all that we will do before we do it...
or even think about doing it.
He knows that at a certain point in time, we're going to need something. Someone. An idea. A hug. An interpretation. An answer. So He sets it up for us ahead of time.
I wonder if God experiences déjà vu often...
So it shouldn't come as a surprise when, halfway through reading something, I stop to think, 'Wow... This is pretty sweet. Oh wait, hey! It's definitely a God thing... duh!'
As I mentioned a couple days ago, I started reading Ezekiel. Well, I finished it this evening. As alluded to, I was struck by something about halfway through the book. A phrase I kept reading over and over was something along the lines of "I am the Lord your God," (such as in Ezekiel 20:7) or "Then you will know that I am the Lord." (such as in Ezekiel 20:38)
I am the Lord.
I am the Lord.
I am the Lord your God.
I am the Lord your God.
Granted, whenever God told the prophet Ezekiel to say to Israel that He was their God, and that they would 'then' know He was their God, it was because He was about to bring upon them desolation and destruction... but still.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Ezekiel.
There is a lot to take in throughout the book.
But I'm not going to lie: I definitely felt that all God wanted me to 'understand' from this was that He is the Lord. And that through good times and bad, I will see Him and know that He is the Lord my God.
And to be honest, that's good enough for me.
I couldn't help but be moved these repetitive phrases.
I needed that simplicity.
These words brought me peace. And comfort.
Relief, even.
God speaks.
Praise Him.
' " 'Then they will know that I, the Lord their God, am with them and that they, the house of Israel, are my people, declares the Sovereign Lord. You my sheep, the sheep of my pasture, are people, and I am your God, declares the Sovereign Lord.' " '
[Ezekiel 34:30-31]
He knows all that we will do before we do it...
or even think about doing it.
He knows that at a certain point in time, we're going to need something. Someone. An idea. A hug. An interpretation. An answer. So He sets it up for us ahead of time.
I wonder if God experiences déjà vu often...
So it shouldn't come as a surprise when, halfway through reading something, I stop to think, 'Wow... This is pretty sweet. Oh wait, hey! It's definitely a God thing... duh!'
As I mentioned a couple days ago, I started reading Ezekiel. Well, I finished it this evening. As alluded to, I was struck by something about halfway through the book. A phrase I kept reading over and over was something along the lines of "I am the Lord your God," (such as in Ezekiel 20:7) or "Then you will know that I am the Lord." (such as in Ezekiel 20:38)
I am the Lord.
I am the Lord.
I am the Lord your God.
I am the Lord your God.
Granted, whenever God told the prophet Ezekiel to say to Israel that He was their God, and that they would 'then' know He was their God, it was because He was about to bring upon them desolation and destruction... but still.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Ezekiel.
There is a lot to take in throughout the book.
But I'm not going to lie: I definitely felt that all God wanted me to 'understand' from this was that He is the Lord. And that through good times and bad, I will see Him and know that He is the Lord my God.
And to be honest, that's good enough for me.
I couldn't help but be moved these repetitive phrases.
I needed that simplicity.
These words brought me peace. And comfort.
Relief, even.
God speaks.
Praise Him.
' " 'Then they will know that I, the Lord their God, am with them and that they, the house of Israel, are my people, declares the Sovereign Lord. You my sheep, the sheep of my pasture, are people, and I am your God, declares the Sovereign Lord.' " '
[Ezekiel 34:30-31]
March 11, 2009
Ch. 362 - Moving Forward
Alright. Here’s the update chapter I’ve been promising for awhile now…
Like I said in my last post, things are looking up. I’m feeling God’s joy again. I’m at peace with myself again. I honestly haven’t felt like this since a couple days before winter break.
So here are two thoughts [and all the goodies that go with those thoughts] that have been going through my mind the past few months. They have been the most prevalent in my mind and thus are what I will elaborate on.
I) Wow… I don’t know what the heck I want to do, after all. I originally wanted to transfer from Utah to [any] Bible college to learn more about God and the Bible. Decided I’d major in Youth Ministry. Well, that changed to Cross-Cultural Ministry before it was all said and done. I simply wanted to tell people around the world about Jesus. I wanted people to be saved. So I get to Central, right? And things are really great. I enjoy the classes, my coursework is interesting. Meet some pretty cool people. Really start to learn more about what my years at Central would look like. See the focus on East Asia, however, for missions. Huge turn-off. I kept thinking, ‘Psh. I don’t want to go to China. I have no interest whatsoever. I want to go to the Middle East, and that’s that.’ Over the past few weeks some light has been shone on the whole issue, and although my thoughts are technically the same, I have a more positive view of the missions department. But missions in general… do I really need a Cross-Cultural Ministry degree to do missions? No. So I start thinking about going back to Youth… I’d focus on Children’s Ministry. Yeah, sounds great. Okay, I really don’t want to work in a church and don’t know what else I’d do. Counseling is a simply out of the question. Biblical Research? Eeeyeah… about that… Preaching – yeah, well, not at this school… Anyway! My thoughts turn to education. I’ve always liked the idea of being a teacher; I’ve thought being a kindergarten or first-grade teacher would be really great. Exhausting. Challenging. Hectic. But great. And with education, I think I’d have a better chance of not boxing myself in. I could do missions overseas through education, which I think would be way neat. Or even teach here in the states, and then do missions in the summer. So that’s what I’m going to do.
II) Sooo I’m not really sure where You are, God. Yes, that’s right. Here at Bible college, I have felt so far from God these past few months that it’s basically ridiculous. I have no one to blame but myself. I wasn’t proactive whatsoever in extending my relationship with Him to new levels. I was very focused on schoolwork – which, in my opinion, is really a great thing… and I ended up doing incredibly well last semester. Yet that’s all that I focused on. Sure, I’d read my Bible for my own benefit [and not for class] now and then. But not enough. And I know I’ve mentioned that before. Now it seems that I’m simply realizing the absolute importance of doing so. I have to stay in God’s word. It is truth, knowledge, and a weapon. I will need it as all these things. If I want to be able to relate it to others in an effective manner, I can’t just know the gist of it. I need to know it through and through, especially for apologetics and in speaking with people who are of different faiths. I mean, the Bible is God’s word. Why wouldn’t I want to immerse myself in it? Beats me… Fortunately, I’ve really started to crack down and train myself to put more time aside for God. I need structure, but I’m the only one that’s going to be able to accomplish that. I don’t have an authoritative figure breathing down my neck saying, “Alright Natalie, time to read the Bible! Time to talk to God! Time to pray for people, time to reflect, time to meditate, time to sing praise!” I have to be disciplined. And I also have to strengthen the spiritual disciplines that are important to growth. No one said it would be easy. I think there are definitely growing pains in faith. But that’s good, because it means that you are, indeed, growing and maturing. I’m right there, I feel. I’m close. A friend once described it as having a strong desire… but a weak will. I think this describes my current situation pretty well. But I truly am working on strengthening my will.
I have a lot to work on in my life. I also have a bit of planning to do [in regards to my course of study]. I’m simply glad, however, that I am definitely just… well… feeling good again. It truly seemed like an overnight-type deal. I woke up a few days ago and I thought to myself, ‘Hm… something’s different. I don’t know what. But I like it!’
To be honest, I believe that I am learning more than I think I am here at school.
And I couldn’t be happier about that if I tried.
My life is for God.
That’s what matters.
So in all reality, I needn’t worry about ‘what the heck I want to do’ or “finding” God.
It’s not like He doesn’t have a plan for me...
It's not like He’s hiding from me...
' "I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace." '
[Acts 20:24]
Like I said in my last post, things are looking up. I’m feeling God’s joy again. I’m at peace with myself again. I honestly haven’t felt like this since a couple days before winter break.
So here are two thoughts [and all the goodies that go with those thoughts] that have been going through my mind the past few months. They have been the most prevalent in my mind and thus are what I will elaborate on.
I) Wow… I don’t know what the heck I want to do, after all. I originally wanted to transfer from Utah to [any] Bible college to learn more about God and the Bible. Decided I’d major in Youth Ministry. Well, that changed to Cross-Cultural Ministry before it was all said and done. I simply wanted to tell people around the world about Jesus. I wanted people to be saved. So I get to Central, right? And things are really great. I enjoy the classes, my coursework is interesting. Meet some pretty cool people. Really start to learn more about what my years at Central would look like. See the focus on East Asia, however, for missions. Huge turn-off. I kept thinking, ‘Psh. I don’t want to go to China. I have no interest whatsoever. I want to go to the Middle East, and that’s that.’ Over the past few weeks some light has been shone on the whole issue, and although my thoughts are technically the same, I have a more positive view of the missions department. But missions in general… do I really need a Cross-Cultural Ministry degree to do missions? No. So I start thinking about going back to Youth… I’d focus on Children’s Ministry. Yeah, sounds great. Okay, I really don’t want to work in a church and don’t know what else I’d do. Counseling is a simply out of the question. Biblical Research? Eeeyeah… about that… Preaching – yeah, well, not at this school… Anyway! My thoughts turn to education. I’ve always liked the idea of being a teacher; I’ve thought being a kindergarten or first-grade teacher would be really great. Exhausting. Challenging. Hectic. But great. And with education, I think I’d have a better chance of not boxing myself in. I could do missions overseas through education, which I think would be way neat. Or even teach here in the states, and then do missions in the summer. So that’s what I’m going to do.
II) Sooo I’m not really sure where You are, God. Yes, that’s right. Here at Bible college, I have felt so far from God these past few months that it’s basically ridiculous. I have no one to blame but myself. I wasn’t proactive whatsoever in extending my relationship with Him to new levels. I was very focused on schoolwork – which, in my opinion, is really a great thing… and I ended up doing incredibly well last semester. Yet that’s all that I focused on. Sure, I’d read my Bible for my own benefit [and not for class] now and then. But not enough. And I know I’ve mentioned that before. Now it seems that I’m simply realizing the absolute importance of doing so. I have to stay in God’s word. It is truth, knowledge, and a weapon. I will need it as all these things. If I want to be able to relate it to others in an effective manner, I can’t just know the gist of it. I need to know it through and through, especially for apologetics and in speaking with people who are of different faiths. I mean, the Bible is God’s word. Why wouldn’t I want to immerse myself in it? Beats me… Fortunately, I’ve really started to crack down and train myself to put more time aside for God. I need structure, but I’m the only one that’s going to be able to accomplish that. I don’t have an authoritative figure breathing down my neck saying, “Alright Natalie, time to read the Bible! Time to talk to God! Time to pray for people, time to reflect, time to meditate, time to sing praise!” I have to be disciplined. And I also have to strengthen the spiritual disciplines that are important to growth. No one said it would be easy. I think there are definitely growing pains in faith. But that’s good, because it means that you are, indeed, growing and maturing. I’m right there, I feel. I’m close. A friend once described it as having a strong desire… but a weak will. I think this describes my current situation pretty well. But I truly am working on strengthening my will.
I have a lot to work on in my life. I also have a bit of planning to do [in regards to my course of study]. I’m simply glad, however, that I am definitely just… well… feeling good again. It truly seemed like an overnight-type deal. I woke up a few days ago and I thought to myself, ‘Hm… something’s different. I don’t know what. But I like it!’
To be honest, I believe that I am learning more than I think I am here at school.
And I couldn’t be happier about that if I tried.
My life is for God.
That’s what matters.
So in all reality, I needn’t worry about ‘what the heck I want to do’ or “finding” God.
It’s not like He doesn’t have a plan for me...
It's not like He’s hiding from me...
' "I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace." '
[Acts 20:24]
March 10, 2009
Ch. 361 - Ezekiel is Intense
So I've started reading Ezekiel, right?
However, I don't know why. I just opened my Bible and suddenly thought, 'Hm. I want to read Ezekiel.'
And man, it's great.
This morning during breakfast I was reading chapter seven, and two verses really stuck out to me. I don't know what it is about them, but I haven't been able to stop thinking about them all day.
Verse 10 says, ' "The day is here! It has come! Doom has burst forth, the rod has budded, arrogance has blossomed!" '
[Emphasis my own]
Verse 18 says, ' "They will put on sackcloth and be clothed with terror." '
For whatever reason, these verses hit me pretty hard.
I'm going to do a bit of research and see what I can learn about them.
Until then...
However, I don't know why. I just opened my Bible and suddenly thought, 'Hm. I want to read Ezekiel.'
And man, it's great.
This morning during breakfast I was reading chapter seven, and two verses really stuck out to me. I don't know what it is about them, but I haven't been able to stop thinking about them all day.
Verse 10 says, ' "The day is here! It has come! Doom has burst forth, the rod has budded, arrogance has blossomed!" '
[Emphasis my own]
Verse 18 says, ' "They will put on sackcloth and be clothed with terror." '
For whatever reason, these verses hit me pretty hard.
I'm going to do a bit of research and see what I can learn about them.
Until then...
March 9, 2009
Ch. 360 - An Answered Prayer
There it is.
The light at the end of the tunnel.
It fills me with warmth.
It fills me with hope.
I am grasping God's joy again.
I have the desire.
I have the will.
God will strengthen it.
Discipline me.
Praise God!
Praise God!
I am lifted up.
'Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.'
[Psalm 51:10-12]
The light at the end of the tunnel.
It fills me with warmth.
It fills me with hope.
I am grasping God's joy again.
I have the desire.
I have the will.
God will strengthen it.
Discipline me.
Praise God!
Praise God!
I am lifted up.
'Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.'
[Psalm 51:10-12]
March 8, 2009
Ch. 359 - Harsh but True
'The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him; the cords of his sin hold him fast. He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly.'
[Proverbs 5:22-23]
Way intense.
[Proverbs 5:22-23]
Way intense.
March 7, 2009
Ch. 358 - The Exchange
It all started with letting someone know what I couldn't stop thinking this morning.
"God is great. I mean, He's really great..."
I didn't check my phone until tonight.
There was a response.
'Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, let the earth hear His voice!'
Well I couldn't see that and not finish it...
"Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord, let the people rejoice!"
I wasn't expecting a reply.
[It is DST, after all. Ha.]
But there it was.
'In the secret, in the quiet place. In the stillness You are there. In the secret, in the quiet hour I wait, only for You, cause I want to know You more.'
"Into marvelous light I'm running, out of darkness, out of shame. By the cross You are the truth, You are the life, You are the way."
'Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found.'
"Hallelujah, grace like rain falls down on me. Hallelujah, all my stains are washed away."
'As the deer panteth for the water, so my soul longeth after thee. You, oh Lord, are my strength, my shield, to You alone will my spirit yield.'
[I was a bit floored with this one - see Ch. 355 as to why.]
"My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus' blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus' name."
'Praise Him from whom all blessings flow, praise Him all creatures here below, praise Him above ye heavenly host.'
"[Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.] Behold the Man upon a cross, my sin upon His shoulders. Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice, call out among the scoffers."
'Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.'
"We fall down, we lay our crowns at the feet of Jesus. The greatness of mercy and love, at the feet of Jesus."
'We sing holy, holy, holy. We sing holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty.'
"Oh no, You never let go, through the calm and through the storm. Oh no, You never let go, in every high and every low."
The exchange stopped there.
But I believe that in a way, it will never end.
What a beautiful way to end the day.
Encouraging.
Hallelujah.
"God is great. I mean, He's really great..."
I didn't check my phone until tonight.
There was a response.
'Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, let the earth hear His voice!'
Well I couldn't see that and not finish it...
"Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord, let the people rejoice!"
I wasn't expecting a reply.
[It is DST, after all. Ha.]
But there it was.
'In the secret, in the quiet place. In the stillness You are there. In the secret, in the quiet hour I wait, only for You, cause I want to know You more.'
"Into marvelous light I'm running, out of darkness, out of shame. By the cross You are the truth, You are the life, You are the way."
'Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found.'
"Hallelujah, grace like rain falls down on me. Hallelujah, all my stains are washed away."
'As the deer panteth for the water, so my soul longeth after thee. You, oh Lord, are my strength, my shield, to You alone will my spirit yield.'
[I was a bit floored with this one - see Ch. 355 as to why.]
"My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus' blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus' name."
'Praise Him from whom all blessings flow, praise Him all creatures here below, praise Him above ye heavenly host.'
"[Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.] Behold the Man upon a cross, my sin upon His shoulders. Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice, call out among the scoffers."
'Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.'
"We fall down, we lay our crowns at the feet of Jesus. The greatness of mercy and love, at the feet of Jesus."
'We sing holy, holy, holy. We sing holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty.'
"Oh no, You never let go, through the calm and through the storm. Oh no, You never let go, in every high and every low."
The exchange stopped there.
But I believe that in a way, it will never end.
What a beautiful way to end the day.
Encouraging.
Hallelujah.
March 6, 2009
Ch. 357 - We Know Nothing
Just wait a bit more... that update I keep saying I'm going to post is right around the corner, I promise. But for now, I'm just basking in the joy that certain verses and praises are bringing me.
'... then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all his efforts to search it out, man cannot discover its meaning. Even if a wise man claims he knows, he cannot really comprehend it.'
[Ecclesiastes 8:17]
'... then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all his efforts to search it out, man cannot discover its meaning. Even if a wise man claims he knows, he cannot really comprehend it.'
[Ecclesiastes 8:17]
March 5, 2009
Ch. 356 - Simplicity at Its Best
'Peace to the brothers, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.'
[Ephesians 6:23-24]
20. October 2010 Edit:
Such a desire to have upon my fellow believers: peace... love with faith... grace... simply lovely. I believe these things came from a humble heart. These came from a man who truly put others before himself. How often do we ask God for peace upon ourselves? Or ask for greater portions of love and grace? Why not ask for these things for others, first? I don't know... I simply feel like we all too often try to make everything about ourselves, but try to mask it to look otherwise.
[Ephesians 6:23-24]
20. October 2010 Edit:
Such a desire to have upon my fellow believers: peace... love with faith... grace... simply lovely. I believe these things came from a humble heart. These came from a man who truly put others before himself. How often do we ask God for peace upon ourselves? Or ask for greater portions of love and grace? Why not ask for these things for others, first? I don't know... I simply feel like we all too often try to make everything about ourselves, but try to mask it to look otherwise.
March 4, 2009
Ch. 355 - As the Deer
'As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God.'
[Psalm 42:1]
Kind of makes you think, doesn't it?
I think this is a beautiful verse. Psalm 42 in general is somewhat spellbinding. I mean, it's a supplication to God. The author (who is unknown) has been to the House of God in Jerusalem before. He led the procession, giving shouts of joy and thanksgiving. Unfortunately, he isn't allowed to go back anymore. He is asking when he can go and meet with God.
......
What an awful thought.
To have to 'go' somewhere to meet with your God.
How fortunate I am to have God's presence with me always. He is with me now and forever and I can "meet" Him whenever and wherever I please.
......
Anyway, the author is lamenting the fact that he is, in fact, not allowed to meet with God. He then asks himself, 'Why are you downcast, O my soul?' [verse 5] He realizes, however, that he can continue to put his trust and hope in God and praise Him.
Yet he goes on to say that he has questioned God, for He has supposedly forgotten him. He mourns because he is being oppressed and taunted. Even so, he stresses the fact that he will praise God - Whom he calls his Savior.
Returning to the beginning of the psalm... he longs for God. His "soul thirsts for God, for the living God." [verse 2] Surely he remembers what it was like when he was allowed to go to the Lord's House and meet with Him. That's what he wants once again.
To feel God.
To know Him.
To see His beauty.
His grace. His mercy. His justice.
His soul pants for God.
'As the deer pants for streams of water.'
Water is an essential of life. You cannot survive without it. It is the same with our Lord God. He is not merely an essential of life, however. He is essential to life. You cannot live without Him. You were created by Him. You are known by Him. And if we are to have eternal life with Him, we must know Him. We should be as the deer... panting, in dire need of the living water, which comes only from our God because of His love for us.
I am so thankful that my God never forgets me... even if, at times, I feel like He does.
But I am human.
I can only reach so far.
God is big.
Incomprehensible.
And His love is unconditional.
It's because of this love that my soul does long for Him.
I love that I will always be able to praise God and put my trust in Him, no matter my situation or whereabouts in this small, finite world.
Praise God.
[Psalm 42:1]
Kind of makes you think, doesn't it?
I think this is a beautiful verse. Psalm 42 in general is somewhat spellbinding. I mean, it's a supplication to God. The author (who is unknown) has been to the House of God in Jerusalem before. He led the procession, giving shouts of joy and thanksgiving. Unfortunately, he isn't allowed to go back anymore. He is asking when he can go and meet with God.
......
What an awful thought.
To have to 'go' somewhere to meet with your God.
How fortunate I am to have God's presence with me always. He is with me now and forever and I can "meet" Him whenever and wherever I please.
......
Anyway, the author is lamenting the fact that he is, in fact, not allowed to meet with God. He then asks himself, 'Why are you downcast, O my soul?' [verse 5] He realizes, however, that he can continue to put his trust and hope in God and praise Him.
Yet he goes on to say that he has questioned God, for He has supposedly forgotten him. He mourns because he is being oppressed and taunted. Even so, he stresses the fact that he will praise God - Whom he calls his Savior.
Returning to the beginning of the psalm... he longs for God. His "soul thirsts for God, for the living God." [verse 2] Surely he remembers what it was like when he was allowed to go to the Lord's House and meet with Him. That's what he wants once again.
To feel God.
To know Him.
To see His beauty.
His grace. His mercy. His justice.
His soul pants for God.
'As the deer pants for streams of water.'
Water is an essential of life. You cannot survive without it. It is the same with our Lord God. He is not merely an essential of life, however. He is essential to life. You cannot live without Him. You were created by Him. You are known by Him. And if we are to have eternal life with Him, we must know Him. We should be as the deer... panting, in dire need of the living water, which comes only from our God because of His love for us.
I am so thankful that my God never forgets me... even if, at times, I feel like He does.
But I am human.
I can only reach so far.
God is big.
Incomprehensible.
And His love is unconditional.
It's because of this love that my soul does long for Him.
I love that I will always be able to praise God and put my trust in Him, no matter my situation or whereabouts in this small, finite world.
Praise God.
March 3, 2009
Ch. 354 - Working On It
'Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.'
[Ephesians 4:32]
The past couple days have been exhausting. In light of recent events, I have some decisions to make. Perhaps I will expound on said events and decisions in the next day or two. I have not decided.
On a lighter note...
I love Jesus.
[Ephesians 4:32]
The past couple days have been exhausting. In light of recent events, I have some decisions to make. Perhaps I will expound on said events and decisions in the next day or two. I have not decided.
On a lighter note...
I love Jesus.
March 2, 2009
Ch. 353 - One With Authority
Even the Pharisees called Jesus 'Teacher'.
'Keeping a close watch on him, they sent spies, who pretended to be honest. They hoped to catch Jesus in something he said so that they might hand him over to the power and authority of the governor.'
[Luke 20:20]
Come on, guys.
'So the spies questioned him: "Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?" '
[Luke 20:21-22]
I mean, you can't fool Jesus Christ, Son of God.
'He saw through their duplicity and said to them, "Show me a denarius. Whose portrait and inscription are on it?" '
[Luke 20:23-24]
Seems like a simple question, right?
' "Caesar's," they replied.'
[Luke 20:25a]
Wait for it...
'He said to them, "Then give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." '
[Luke 20:25b]
Wait for it...
'They were unable to trap him in what he had said there in public. And astonished by his answer, they became silent.'
[Luke 20:26]
They were unable...
They were astonished...
They were silent...
'Keeping a close watch on him, they sent spies, who pretended to be honest. They hoped to catch Jesus in something he said so that they might hand him over to the power and authority of the governor.'
[Luke 20:20]
Come on, guys.
'So the spies questioned him: "Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?" '
[Luke 20:21-22]
I mean, you can't fool Jesus Christ, Son of God.
'He saw through their duplicity and said to them, "Show me a denarius. Whose portrait and inscription are on it?" '
[Luke 20:23-24]
Seems like a simple question, right?
' "Caesar's," they replied.'
[Luke 20:25a]
Wait for it...
'He said to them, "Then give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." '
[Luke 20:25b]
Wait for it...
'They were unable to trap him in what he had said there in public. And astonished by his answer, they became silent.'
[Luke 20:26]
They were unable...
They were astonished...
They were silent...
March 1, 2009
Ch. 352 - Finding God
"1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10... ready or not, here I come!"
God doesn't hide.
But sometimes I feel as if I can't find Him.
Can't see Him.
Can't hear Him.
Can't feel Him.
But whose fault is that?
......
Exactly.
I seem to always say I'm going to try harder.
I'll find Him.
I'll get closer.
I'll do better.
I'm not as disciplined as I'd like to be, that's for sure.
However, I am finally getting back to training myself and strengthening what discipline I do have.
I was listening to a song earlier today and it really made me want to "find" God all the more. I mean, I need Him, even when I don't think I do. He is all things to all people.
He's a shield.
He's a light.
He's a compass.
He's a rock.
He's a shelter.
He is more than we imagine Him to be.
The song I was listening to was The More I Seek You.
'The more I seek You,
the more I find You.
The more I find You,
the more I love You.
I want to sit at Your feet,
drink from the cup in Your hand.
Lay back against You and breathe,
feel Your heartbeat.
This love is so deep, it's more than I can stand.
I melt in Your peace, it's overwhelming.'
I want this.
' "The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." '
[Zephaniah 3:17]
God doesn't hide.
But sometimes I feel as if I can't find Him.
Can't see Him.
Can't hear Him.
Can't feel Him.
But whose fault is that?
......
Exactly.
I seem to always say I'm going to try harder.
I'll find Him.
I'll get closer.
I'll do better.
I'm not as disciplined as I'd like to be, that's for sure.
However, I am finally getting back to training myself and strengthening what discipline I do have.
I was listening to a song earlier today and it really made me want to "find" God all the more. I mean, I need Him, even when I don't think I do. He is all things to all people.
He's a shield.
He's a light.
He's a compass.
He's a rock.
He's a shelter.
He is more than we imagine Him to be.
The song I was listening to was The More I Seek You.
'The more I seek You,
the more I find You.
The more I find You,
the more I love You.
I want to sit at Your feet,
drink from the cup in Your hand.
Lay back against You and breathe,
feel Your heartbeat.
This love is so deep, it's more than I can stand.
I melt in Your peace, it's overwhelming.'
I want this.
' "The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." '
[Zephaniah 3:17]
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