When I Am Weak, He is Strong...

I have read and reread today's passage. For weeks now, I've struggled with what to focus on in this section of scripture that is so full of heavy content and profound revelation. I have prayed for days about what I might write here, because I don't want to miss the thing that most needs to be said about Elijah's story if I only have this one opportunity.

1 Kings 15:25 through 19, and 2 Chronicles 17 cover some of the most fascinating events in all of scripture. It's in these chapters that Elijah shows up. This prophet of God lived during one of Israel's darkest times in terms of its idolatry, and he experienced a supernatural demonstration of God's power on Mount Carmel, several miraculous displays of God's provision for his physical needs, and a spiritual and emotional bout with depression and discouragement that rivals any other in all of the Bible.

In my own life, I have witnessed times when God showed up in a way for me that can only be described as miraculous. He has answered prayer, He has fought battles, He has demonstrated His provision, He has calmed my fear and He has spoken to me almost audibly through His Word and by His Spirit. And yet because I am still so prone to miss the marvelous and muddle in the mundane, I find myself compelled by Elijah's demonstration of his humanness as evidenced by his admitted fear; his "ready to throw in the towel-ness," evidenced by his flight to Sinai; and his "I'm done-ness" evidenced by his admission of feeling so alone.

I love that God gives us a picture of the highest highs and the lowest lows of earthly existence through the life of Elijah. And if there is one big lesson that I think we should take away from his journey, it might be to remember something that Charles Spurgeon noted when writing about this great hero of the faith:

"Elijah failed in the very point at which he was strongest, and that is where most men fail. In Scripture, it is the wisest man who proves himself to be the greatest fool; just as the meekest man, Moses, spoke hasty and bitter words. Abraham failed in his faith, and Job in his patience; so, he who was the most courageous of all men, fled from an angry woman."

My prayer for myself today--and my prayer for you, is that we keep ourselves on guard and prayed up in the areas that we believe ourselves to be secure. If Elijah, a man who witnessed the visible, supernatural demonstration of God's might and power, could later fear that this same God couldn't easily protect him from a mouthy, idolatrous woman, God help us!

Lord, as we humble ourselves in recognition of our weaknesses, please open our eyes to all delusion and deception, keep us strong and safe from the enemy's plans to devour or destroy, and perfect your strength in our weakness by fighting for us as we face life's battles and temptations. Create in us clean hearts and keep us from evil as you keep the evil one from us, in Your Most Holy, Wonderful Name, Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.

Preoccupied...

My husband told me a couple of weeks ago that if I was not going to post my devotional notes every day, I should at least write something to explain why not.

I argued, countering that my blog wasn't one that people checked regularly, and reminded him that this is just a convenient way to organize this project that I'm working on for my grandchildren.

Well...it turns out that maybe he was right. A few friends have emailed me or asked me what's up with my not posting every day, so here are my "excuses".

1. I don't want to include anything in this journal that hasn't been prayed about and pondered-researched enough, so on days that don't afford me adequate time for doing that, I'm making my notes elsewhere for inclusion later.

2. I've taken on a few additional projects that I didn't anticipate when I imagined that this feat was possible to accomplish in a year.

3. I'm enjoying my grandchildren every day if I possibly can! I don't want to do something for them (this journal), but miss being with them--and since I'm blessed enough to have them close by, I am trying to be intentional about spending fun times with them as often as possible.

So...unless something unexpected happens, I will continue to post my scripture journal here as often as I can each week until I've made it through the entire Bible. But if you were possibly one who's wondering what's up with me and this process...other than my usual work and routine, here's your answer in photographs...


Our newest edition to the family, Cadence Louise Broome, blessed us with her arrival on October 1, 2009!


Lilia turned 1 on September 19!


Ava Grace turned 2 on September 26!


I now have THREE beautiful granddaughters who have birthdays within two weeks of each other!

I hope to be the kind of Nana who will always offer an accessible, fun, and skeleton free closet for my girls to explore! I adore them-- and I thank God for blessing me with three beautiful granddaughters. (so far....!!!)

Have a beautiful October, and check in soon, I'll be back!

Love,
Nana (Sandy)!

Age and Mileage...

My father is a man of many aphorisms. In fact, I've considered before that I really should take the time to list them because they are so much a part of my history. There is rarely a day that one or two of his random sayings don't pop into my head.

When I was growing up, a few of them nearly drove me crazy. For instance, each time I'd exuberantly shout, "Daddy! Guess What?!!" Without hesitation he'd respond, "The higher you raise a mule's tail, the better you can see his butt." I know, you weren't expecting anything quite so uncouth here. But honestly, that was just the first of many that came to my mind when thinking about some of dad's wise-cracks and sayings.

I'm happy to report that although he's quite a character and still a kidder (Dad: "You can kid leather and string beans, but you can't bull frogs.") he remains wise in his golden years (with the exception of that one recent tree-cutting incident). Conversely, 1 Kings 15:1-24 and 2 Chronicles 13-16 (today's passages) tell of a man who was wise in the early years of his life, but in his later years, behaved foolishly.

That man, Asa, King of Judah, faced an army from Ethiopia that outnumbered his and could easily overwhelm them. Logic said he was doomed, but wisdom demanded that he cry out to God. Here is his plea as recorded in 2 Chronicles 14:11
“O Lord, no one but you can help the powerless against the mighty! Help us, O Lord our God, for we trust in you alone. It is in your name that we have come against this vast horde. O Lord, you are our God; do not let mere men prevail against you!”

The next verses say that "the Lord defeated the Ethiopians". What an incredible thing that must have been. This wise, young king saw God's might and power unquestionably demonstrated. Yet when we continue to read, we learn that later in his life he entered into a treaty with an earthly king, resulting in a legacy of sad, diseased defeat for Asa.

Finishing strong requires going all the way with God and refusing to enter into a treaty with this world. One of the most encouraging passages in all of scripture is also one of the saddest. King Asa was rebuked by Hanani with these words:

7 ...“Because you have put your trust in the king of Aram instead of in the Lord your God, you missed your chance to destroy the army of the king of Aram. 8 Don’t you remember what happened to the Ethiopians and Libyans and their vast army, with all of their chariots and charioteers? At that time you relied on the Lord, and he handed them over to you. 9 The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. What a fool you have been! From now on you will be at war.”

How sad. How tragic!

Another of my dad's aphorisms when asked how he's doing, is this: "Pretty good, considering my age and mileage." King Asa had age and mileage (which should have ensured wisdom) on his side, and yet he did not finish well. I pray that we emulate my father and not Asa. I hope that we will keep on keeping on and walking the faith walk even when age and mileage have taken their toll. The rewards will be eternal and worth any sacrifice or challenge along the way.

So Dad, here's to you, even though you're probably feeling like you were, "sent for, couldn't go, finally went, and wouldn't do," you are an example to me and others of one who keeps the faith when the going is tough. Thank you.

Father, help us remember that your eyes are searching the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to you. Fix our eyes like flint on your purpose, plan and promises! In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Truth or Consequences...

Will a person automatically be wise because of their heritage? Is the guarantee of wisdom handed down? This next passage of scripture (1 Kings 12-14; 2 Chronicles 10-12) gives us the answer, and it is an emphatic no.

Rehoboam, son of Solomon, was not wise. In fact, just after having been made king of Israel, his first decision proved that he was quite foolish when the leaders of Israel asked him to lighten the tax and labor load forced upon them during Solomon's reign. They promised allegiance if he agreed, and he asked them for three days to think about it. Next, he consulted the elders who had advised his father. Sounds wise so far, right?

The elders gave him good advice, explaining that granting the request of the people would ensure him a successful reign as king. But he rejected their advice, deciding he'd consult his own, new advisers, his life-long buddies.

The buddies told him to sock it to the people even harder than his father had, and that sounded like a good plan to him. He wanted to be a big deal, so he did what he probably wanted to do all along, but now he had advocates who gave him the thumbs up, so it was all good. Or was it?

No, it was not. These passages reveal the rough road ahead as a result of his terrible decision. So...what can we learn from Rehoboam's folly? Many things, but here are two that just jump out at me.

First, when elders advise, be quick to listen. If they are godly and mature and wise, they will give counsel with experienced advice that will be worth heeding-- even if it is the exact opposite of what you or I prefer.

Second, when peers advise, be slow to act and quick to pray. I would never suggest that all advice from young/younger people is bad or wrong. But the caution here seems to be that it may be--especially if we surround ourselves by "yes" pals.

It's understandable to think that old/older people don't have a clue. It's common to imagine that they don't understand or can't put themselves in our place. And it's preferable, quite often, to do what seems personally expedient rather than laboriously difficult. It's even worse to hear advice that requires a delay of gratification. But remember this, anyone who tells you what you want to hear, or encourages you to follow your flesh/heart down a path that even in the tiniest way violates scripture, is a bad advisor--and following their advice will render you as foolish as Rehoboam.

My prayer for you, and my prayer for myself, is that we will be wise. First, by praying and asking the giver of wisdom to lead our lives, and second, by always seeking solid, wise, Godly counsel when we are in doubt, from those who wouldn't be "yes" friends.

Father, help us to hear your still, small voice because we've stopped talking long enough to listen, and please send us Godly, wise mentors and friends who will speak the truth into our lives even when it's not what we want to hear. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Good Guilt

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, there was a woman whose inner beauty, strength, ingenuity, wisdom and dignity were so exceptional that she put all others to shame. Her name? Mrs. Proverbs 31. And she is the subject of today's scripture passages which are chapters 30 and 31 of this book of wisdom.

I read about her, this portrait of feminine excellence, and I am bewildered by the chasm that exists between the description of her and the one that would accurately define me. So what am I to do with this specific chapter of scripture? And how can I escape the penitentiary of guilt that my failure to measure up to this ideal imposes?

In attempting to answer my own questions, I'm reminded that guilt, in and of itself, has gotten a bad rap. The truth is, guilt can be good. I fear, though, that we've confused guilt with shame, resulting in elimination of necessary guilt. So rather than allowing it to do its beneficial work within us, we're tempted to embrace the "always have positive self-esteem" philosophy that is pervasive in our culture. The danger of this surfaces when possession of positive self-esteem is unmerited by one's actions or attitudes. Recognition of our guilt is what motivates us to confess and repent, which may explain why this seems to be a subject you don't hear much about any more.

As I write these words, I realize that what I'm trying to convey is not a typical response to such beautiful chapters, but I want you to understand that although it is important for you to have healthy self esteem, it's equally important that you understand one of scripture's clear teachings: We are not good apart from God, and are in fact, guilty. We are unworthy of salvation. We deserve punishment and judgment. And yet...God offers us just the opposite when we acknowledge the truth about ourselves.

So what is the truth? I think Romans 3 sums it up nicely:

10As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one; 11 there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. 12 All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one."

We're all pretty much messes. And despite the fact that some women are probably a lot closer to a bonafide Proverbs 31 lady than I'll ever be, they are just as needy and lacking as I am in the eyes of God. And just as we're told that we have no righteousness apart from Him, we are also told that He so loved the world (that includes us) that He gave His only Son to be righteous for us.

In Jesus Christ alone we are made new and good and worthy. And because of Him we can ALL share in the glorious truth of the final verses of Proverbs 31:

30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last;
but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
31 Reward her for all she has done.
Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.

Father, please help us have hope and health in terms of the way we view ourselves as women (and men) so that we never fail to recognize our dependency on you and our depravity apart from you. May the praise of your name be on our lips because of your great love and mercy as long as we have breath. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

For Queens and other Seekers...

"Who do you think you are, the Queen of Sheba?" This sarcastic question has been asked of me (hopefully in jest) before. Most of us have probably heard of her if not in that same way, then maybe from having read today's passages, 1 Kings 10-11 and 2 Chronicles 9.

This Queen, who was no small potato herself, paid a visit to Solomon to see if all that she'd heard about him was true. Take a look at her reaction to what she saw:

7 "I didn’t believe what was said until I arrived here and saw it with my own eyes. In fact, I had not heard the half of it! Your wisdom and prosperity are far beyond what I was told....9 Praise the Lord your God, who delights in you and has placed you on the throne of Israel. Because of the Lord’s eternal love for Israel, he has made you king so you can rule with justice and righteousness.”

Miss Q.o.S. was very impressed, wasn't she? So much so that she made a curious statement referencing her praise of Solomon's Lord God. But there is not a shred of evidence that any of this persuaded her to place her own trust or faith in Him.

Reading this account reminds me that we often fail to remember that there is nothing "WE" possess, no wisdom, no wealth, no impressive possession or position that will draw someone in to a personal place of surrender to God as Lord.

All of our striving is in vain if we think we can cleverly, wisely argue someone to believing faith. All of our human effort to establish ourselves as admired, reputable spokesmen and women is futile when we are counting in any way upon those things as convincing accoutrements in our witnessing "arsenal". Only God, through the power of His Holy Spirit, draws anyone to Himself. We are reminded to always be prepared and willing to be used, but the great mistake we would make is assuming that we are ever able to conjure enough credentials or credibility on our own to "impress" someone into believing the Word of God.

The Queen of Sheba was apparently "seeking," but despite having been impressed with all the splendor of his facilities, organization and maybe even his programs and personal brilliance, it wasn't enough. This passage reminded me of the need to pray for our churches as we also pray for ourselves so that we remember the critical truth of Romans 10:17: Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.

It is Christ alone who saves. As His ambassadors, we must hide His Word in our hearts because it alone has the power to save.

Father, help us commit your Word to memory so that we are ready and able to give the reason for our great hope when you send seekers our way, and may we never forget that it is by hearing your Word, not being impressed by our wit or wisdom, that anyone comes to faith. Forgive me for forgetting that. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Nothing is New...

If you haven't read Ecclesiastes before, today's scripture reading includes the entire book--which may seem confusing, alarming, frustrating and disconcerting upon first read. And that's just for starters! As I begin to try to explain a little of what is so great and so difficult about the book, let me encourage you to read and study it for yourself.

Written by Solomon, Ecclesiastes is a compilation of his thoughts about life and the futility and frustration associated with human, earthly existence. At first glance and without a little deeper digging, it seems that he is basically saying everything is pointless, so eat, drink and be merry because you are going to die eventually and take nothing with you. He seems to be warning us that we are nothing more than animals with benefits.

That's why it is important to note that Solomon's book is not dealing with the "spiritual" man, it is dealing with the "natural" man and his search for life's purpose. In these chapters, the wise king is not speaking of God as Jehovah God, instead he is referencing God in much the same way a lost, worldly person views him--something akin to a force or higher power as in the Star Wars movies.

In his great wisdom, Solomon recognized that the search for meaning in life is futile apart from personally experiencing God in a way that transcends the superficial, artificial manner that relegates him to a place of distance or merely a force of power beyond our realm and consciousness.

Throughout theses chapters, there are hidden gems of truth that must be acknowledged though--and because I would not attempt to improve upon or better convey these thoughts, I have selected these verses as worthy of contemplation. Think on these things as you join me in giving thanks to God for allowing us to have lives of purpose because of our personal relationships with Him through Christ, His Son.

Ecclesiastes:

2:9 History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new. 10 Sometimes people say, “Here is something new!” But actually it is old; nothing is ever truly new. 11 We don’t remember what happened in the past, and in future generations, no one will remember what we are doing now.

3:11 Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end. 12 So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. 13 And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.

5:10 Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness! 11 The more you have, the more people come to help you spend it. So what good is wealth—except perhaps to watch it slip through your fingers!

7:4 A wise person thinks a lot about death, while a fool thinks only about having a good time.

10:2 A wise person chooses the right road; a fool takes the wrong one.

12:1 Don’t let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, “Life is not pleasant anymore.”

12:13 That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. 14 God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.

One Part Integrity and Godliness and Two Parts Humility...

This morning, when I realized how long it has been since I last wrote about my daily scripture reading, I was amazed. The old saying, "Time flies when you're having fun," couldn't be more fitting. We enjoyed a wonderful break as a result of our family vacation, then returned to a very challenging bunch of deadlines at work that required long days and mentally tiring concentration. Having said that, I hope now to resume my daily posts and get back on track with the chronological journey through God's Word--which by the way never fails to fascinate me! So...let's dive in!

1 Kings 9, 2 Chronicles 8 and Proverbs 25 through 29 is where we pick up this morning and the opening text jumped off the page as I read what God told Solomon after he met with him a second time to discuss the temple.

Take a look at what The Lord said beginning in verse 3:

“I have heard your prayer and your petition. I have set this Temple apart to be holy—this place you have built where my name will be honored forever. I will always watch over it, for it is dear to my heart. 4 “As for you, if you will follow me with integrity and godliness, as David your father did, obeying all my commands, decrees, and regulations, 5 then I will establish the throne of your dynasty over Israel forever.

God didn't say, "Way to go, Solomon! You've done good, son! You can rest on these laurels for the remainder of your days on earth and all will be well with you and your family."

Instead, He qualified his continued blessing by saying "IF" you follow me "WITH INTEGRITY and GODLINESS," and "OBEY me," then I will establish your throne.

I had to pause right there. I need to think about my own life and the lives of leaders I've served with and under. What does it look like to demonstrate integrity and godliness? Are there really people today who don't cave in to the temptation to bend a little--to seek a little easier, faster route to the perceived place of blessing by doing a little cheating, a little short-cut taking, a little sin-minimizing and/or dismissing? I've heard it said that integrity is doing the right thing even when nobody is watching, and if that's the case, do I always demonstrate integrity? These are questions worthy of pause and consideration.

I've had close relationships with a few individuals who have modeled what I consider genuine integrity. Did you note the word "few" in that last sentence? This world almost makes it seem reasonable to do the easy thing instead of the right thing. I'm afraid that it is so common place nowadays that it's actually often accepted as necessary--even within the church and specifically God's family.

Well before this gets depressing, let me say that while it may be the exception rather than the rule to witness genuine integrity today, it is not something that is less meaningful, less of a goal to strive toward, or less of a wonderful attribute to possess. And I would also suggest that it's not something that is elusive. It is achievable and attainable--not by our own strength but in and through Christ who gives us our strength. (Phil. 4:13)

Proverbs 27:2 and 21 are verses worth noting because possibly one of the fastest derailments we might encounter on the track toward integrity is the pride and praise that may be awarded to us if we actually demonstrate this admirable character trait. Here's what Solomon had to say:

2 Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth—
a stranger, not your own lips.
21 Fire tests the purity of silver and gold,
but a person is tested by being praised.

When no one is looking, do what is right anyway. When no one praises you, know that God is watching--that He sees--and He takes note. And when someone does notice and praises you, be on guard against the pride that might make you feel the slightest bit superior, because that is the perfect opportunity for our enemy (the devil) to knock us off of our "character" high horse and throw us into the crater of compromise.

Father, make us men and women of integrity and godliness. Teach us your ways and order our steps so that we do not stray from the path that leads to your blessing for our lives. We love and thank you for forgiving our sins and we ask that you help us as we attempt to walk in purity and integrity when no one but you is watching. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Praise The Lord!

Have you ever wondered why there are repeated admonitions in the Psalms and other scriptures encouraging us to praise God? Why does He need our praise? He created the earth and everything in it--surely He knows He is great. So why would any words of praise that we might offer matter to Him?

Today's passages, Psalm 134, 146, 147, 148 and 149 are filled with reminders of God's worthiness to receive our praise, but still, the question remains, why? What difference do our words and songs of praise make to our Maker?

C.S.Lewis struggled at one time with why God requires the praise of man. In his Reflections on the Psalms, Lewis writes:

We all despise the man who demands continued assurance of his own virtue, intelligence or delightfulness; we despise still more the crowd of people round every dictator, every millionaire, every celebrity, who gratify that demand. Thus a picture, at once ludicrous and horrible, both of God and His worshippers, threatened to appear in my mind. The Psalms were especially troublesome in this way – ‘Praise the Lord,' 'O praise the Lord with me,' 'Praise Him.' . . .

Lewis writes that he eventually reconciled this struggle when he realized that praise is the spontaneous response to whatever is praise-worthy:

...the most obvious fact about praise – whether of God or anything – strangely escaped me. I thought of it in terms of compliment, approval, or the giving of honour. I had never noticed that all enjoyment spontaneously overflows into praise...

What a beautiful, simple, obvious truth. When we come to know Him, His greatness and goodness, His magnificence and majesty, it is impossible NOT to praise Him! The result of knowing The Lord is enjoyment of a precious relationship that is life altering and praise producing. It's inevitable, inescapable and unavoidable.

Simply put,
Praise erupts
It can't be contained
when by God's Son, Christ,
a heart has been changed.

And so I will with the Psalmist sing:

1 Praise the Lord!
Let all that I am praise the Lord.
2 I will praise the Lord as long as I live.
I will sing praises to my God with my dying breath. Psalm 146

Enduring Love...

Enduring Love. Just the sound of those two words can arouse fantasies of romance and passion. Sadly though, as we are enlightened by real life disappointments and real world disillusionment, we often conclude that genuine, enduring love is merely the product of fiction, not anything real that we'll ever actually experience.

The dictionary defines the word "endure," as something that lasts or continues in the same state. No wonder we are skeptical. People throw in the towel and give up on love rather than staying the course these days. Over half of all couples divorce as the song says "after the love is gone". So cynical are we, that many don't even bother with marriage, choosing instead to live together outside of God's boundaries until the "feelings" of love have faded and greener pastures beckon.

I have been fortunate to witness a few examples of enduring love--the kind of self-sacrificing, devoted love that keeps on keeping on even after "love's receiver" can offer nothing in return. As she lingers helplessly, bed-ridden, requiring that the "love giver" provide for her every need, her lover evolves into a picture of what I believe today's scripture passages portray our Heavenly Father to be--an enduring lover.

2 Chronicles 6-7 and Psalm 136 continue this fascinating chronological journey through God's Word with a detailed account of Solomon's prayer of dedication of the temple, God's response, and then a beautiful song written to express the Psalmist's gratitude for The Lord's enduring love.

In a world full of quitters and giver-uppers, we can be certain that there is One whose love will endure forever. There will never be a moment when God's love for us stops. Others will fail us, and it may seem as if enduring love is merely the stuff of romance novels, but don't fall prey to that misconception. When you are disappointed by life's evidences of failed, flawed lovers, remember these words from Psalm 136:

4 Give thanks to him who alone does mighty miracles.
His faithful love endures forever.
5 Give thanks to him who made the heavens so skillfully.
His faithful love endures forever.
6 Give thanks to him who placed the earth among the waters.
His faithful love endures forever.
7 Give thanks to him who made the heavenly lights—
His faithful love endures forever.
8 the sun to rule the day,
His faithful love endures forever.
9 and the moon and stars to rule the night.
His faithful love endures forever.

Thank you Father, for your faithful, enduring love. Amen.

Free Yard Sale Update!

For all who wonder, the free yard sale went pretty well. We weren't successful at finding a new home for all of our "treasures," but we did manage to place a good deal of it!

In a few weeks, we may do this again, so stay tuned!

The most rewarding aspect of the morning is that I can report that almost $100.00 was raised for this couple ! Team Thompson continues to do great work in Africa and I am happy to be able to support their efforts, even if in a small way.

The other exciting events of the day included an impromptu swim party featuring Chloe, Emmi and Orry Haun. Orry, the tiny Boston Terrier, chased a pink ball right into the pool, but Chloe and Emmi discovered that their little bundle of howling, shivering, ball chasing fur is a pretty good dog paddler. A celebration of his survival was held on the screened porch, catered by Bojangles. Umm umm good.

To each of you who stopped by, called or donated, thank you! It was fun, and hopefully, the first of many future efforts to clean out and help a deserving cause in the process.

For the moment...

Yesterday was a perfect day. As I rested and "Sabbathed," the thought occurred to me that I often take the riches I have in Christ for granted, forgetting (or at least failing to be vocally thankful) for the benefits of being God's daughter.

So, here is part of the prayer that came to me as I considered how bountifully blessed I am:

May I be so grateful
That when I'm tempted to complain
All my unmet expectations
Are forgotten by my brain. Amen.

Happy Monday!

The Real World...

The song goes: Summertime...and the livin's easy...

For me, summertime means later evenings, often spent outdoors with friends and family, a treat that I wouldn't trade for anything even though it has definitely affected my daily blog schedule.

To all who have checked in only to discover that there is no new post, I apologize and appreciate your patience. I'm just summertiming too much I suppose.

I do have something to mention this afternoon though, something that I've been pondering all day long and can't get off my mind.

On a couple of occasions lately when I've been with Ava Grace, I've had to comfort and reassure her because she was afraid. A few times, it was an offending noise, a loud truck, motor, or helicopter. At another time, it was the sudden awareness that I was in the next room instead of with her. At any rate, I've just been meditating on fear--hers--and mine--today.

How does a child who has seemingly never had any legitimate reason to be afraid of anything, know to be afraid? How does one so small recognize that there is potential danger lurking in this world?

For Ava Grace, my immediate reassurance or embrace is completely sufficient. Can I say the same? There is One who tells me to "fear not," and yet I fear. He promises that His perfect love will cast away all my anxiety and that I can cast all my cares upon Him. Yet, I still find myself fearful at times.

It's quite daunting to know that we live in a world that we cannot control. Each night, I am aware that having been given another day is a blessing, and I never fail to be thankful for the amazing benefits of having been born in America, and yet my thoughts often turn to fearful things as I listen to the news and read the paper.

As I prayed and pondered this morning, with timing that seemed supernaturally divine, an old song on one of my Ipod playlists interrupted me with a reminder that I only remain fearful when I fail to focus on the One who holds the whole world in His hands and brings His heaven to my real world.

I hear you, Lord. So I will fix my focus with faith in Your sufficiency and set my feet in the concrete of Your reassuring promises. As long as I live in this real (and sometimes scary) world, I will nestle like a child in Your secure embrace.

Holy, Holy, Holy!

While reading today's passages, 1 Kings 5-8, and 2 Chronicles 2-5, my immediate response was to sing this hymn in my heart:

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee.
Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!

Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore thee,
casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
cherubim and seraphim falling down before thee,
which wert, and art, and evermore shalt be.

Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide thee,
though the eye of sinful man thy glory may not see,
only thou art holy; there is none beside thee,
perfect in power, in love and purity.

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
All thy works shall praise thy name, in earth and sky and sea.
Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity.

The reason I included all the lyrics to this classic hymn (which dates all the way back to 1826 by the way) is because songs I've committed to memory that tell of God's holiness and glory are among the first thoughts that come to me when I consider His majesty or find myself fearfully contemplating the future.

Today's reading covers the building and dedication of the Temple, built for God in honor of God, by Solomon.

As chapter 8 of 1 Kings concludes, God's glorious presence (known as His Shekinah Glory) filled the temple in the form of a cloud that was so powerfully intense the priests could not continue their service. This begs the question that if God is love and grace, why did these men not just stay and bask in the moment?

It was because God isn't just goodness, grace and love, He is also holy--so holy in fact that the priests could not remain in the presence of His glory.

There are other accounts in scripture when men like Isaiah, John and Peter encountered the literal presence of God, and when confronted with the contrast between their sinfulness and His righteous holiness, they were "stricken" in his presence. (Isaiah 6:5; Revelation 1:17, and Luke 5:8)

Today, we live under the new covenant of grace (John 1:17) and we have a different experience when we encounter God because as Christians, Jesus' righteous holiness is imputed to us at the time of our salvation. But does that mean we should forget that God is holy and come before Him casually? No. I believe we need to be careful to remember that our great God is Holy now, just as He was at the dedication of the temple all those years ago.

Remembering the "holy" aspect of His character helps us understand that the gift of salvation is our most precious, prized possession--not to be taken lightly or for granted. And that, my loves, is the essence of what these passages spoke to my heart as I read this morning. Holy, Holy, Holy!

Wrong Way Remorse Remedy

Admitting you are wrong is not easy. It can be humiliating and humbling, embarrassing and discouraging. But someday, sometime, you might have to make just such an admission.

I have known the painful place of pierced pride resulting from my arrogance, stubbornness, ignorance, or a combination of all three. In hindsight, I've discovered that landing in this spot is usually avoidable if some basic disciplines are exercised.

So, what have I learned from my past mistakes that might be useful to you as you are faced with serious decisions and choices? Hopefully, I can share a few valuable life lessons that will save you from dining on humble pie as a result of a fall that follows pride.

For starters, slow down. My most foolish actions were made in haste. I have learned from wiser people (and from God's Word) that major decisions should not be made impulsively. Listen to these words from Proverbs 18:13 Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.

Next, don't just be slow to act, be slow to speak. Once they've escaped the confines of our mouth, our words cannot be retracted. Apologized for, yes. Taken back, never. Do not underestimate the damage done by a wagging tongue.
Proverbs 18:7 sums it up nicely: The mouths of fools are their ruin; they trap themselves with their lips.

Finally, always ask God--but not with a predetermined agenda or stubborn heart. Ask with pliable flexibility and humble submission that will allow Him to actually lead you. In other words, get out of the driver's seat and let God be Lord in your life!Proverbs 16: 25 There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. 21:2 People may be right in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their heart.

Today's passages are Proverbs chapters 16 through 24. The verses reminded me that when I walk in the ways of the Lord, my destiny is secure and His plans will be my own--but when I ignore the warnings of scripture, I am heading head-on into the path of wrong way remorse.

Why and What?

Proverbs 10 through 15 are today's chapters, and these pages of scripture are filled to overflowing with practical advice and wisdom.

I don't know about you, but sometimes, I don't feel very smart. I realize that there is so much I don't know, so many things to learn, and such a gap between what and who I want to be, and what and who I actually am-- that it can be quite discouraging. Thankfully, God promises to provide what I lack if I genuinely seek and lean on Him for discernment and understanding.

Much of the practical "how-to" advice that we need for getting by day-to-day can be found in the Proverbs of Solomon. In these chapters we can read about how to wisely use our money, how to guard our tongues, how to avoid the snares of evil temptations, how to treat others, and what we need to know about good versus evil in terms of how our choices will ultimately affect our futures.

What disturbs me today though, and what I want to write to you about, is the very unfortunate lack of understanding of basic Bible doctrine that is apparently plaguing many Christian churches. I listened recently to an interview that included a poll taken at a religious broadcaster's meeting in which this question was posed: "What does the doctrine of justification mean for your life?".

The lack of understanding about this basic tenet of our Christian faith was astounding. What's more, a recent study suggests that the vast majority of American church-going teenagers have embraced what is being called "moralistic therapeutic deism," revealing the tremendous lack of understanding of scriptural doctrines among many who believe themselves to be Christian.

My great hope and prayer for you my precious ones, is that you learn and grow in your Christian faith, following the admonition of 1 Peter 3:15 and 16 which reads:

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

I pray that you each will know what you believe and why you believe it! I trust that by the time you read this, your parents will have made certain you understand that it is not because you are a good person or because you do good things that you are okay with God. I hope you will each have insatiable appetites for learning about the righteousness that is imputed to you through Christ's life, death and resurrection! And I pray that when you feel inadequate, unintelligent or ignorant (as I so often do) you will call on the One who delights in revealing His truth to sincere seekers.

Soli Deo Gloria
Solo Christo
Sola Scriptura
Sola Fide
Sola Gratia
Amen.

Proverbial Wisdom...

A song I love begins like this:

In the morning, when I rise
In the morning, when I rise
In the morning, when I rise
Give me Jesus.

Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
Just give me Jesus.

This stated desire to "have" Jesus reveals a sort of impassioned dependence that should be the heart's cry of every Christian believer. And although I should begin every day with this song on my lips, sadly, there are some days when it isn't my first thought upon rising--and oh what a difference that inevitably makes.

Today's scriptures are Proverbs 1 through 9, chapters of the Bible that contain words of wisdom from King Solomon. The first chapter provides an explanation of Proverbs' purpose:

2 Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline,
to help them understand the insights of the wise.
3 Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives,
to help them do what is right, just, and fair.
4 These proverbs will give insight to the simple,
knowledge and discernment to the young.
5 Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser.
Let those with understanding receive guidance
6 by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables,
the words of the wise and their riddles.
7 Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Hopefully, we will never foolishly despise wisdom or true knowledge, but many people do. For those of us who sincerely seek to know more of God however, there are many wonderful ways to spend daily devotional time with Him. Simply reading one chapter of Proverbs each day of the month and then reflecting on and praying about the passage is a great way to experience a daily dose of wise counsel.

Father, give us Jesus and give us wisdom. We are so grateful that you are the merciful giver of both.

The Trouble with Men...and Women...

I do not plan to include this post in my collection of writings for my grandchildren, this is just for me tonight. It's something I need to write as a way of expressing my very great burden for marriage.

I have failed to post a blog for the last couple of days because my chronological reading has taken me to Song of Solomon, a perplexing book in some respects because of its different interpretations (is it an allegory or a play, poetry or narrative?) and because I have had difficulty landing on exactly what I feel led to say about the content of the chapters to my grandchildren.

I do know this already though, I will be focusing on the beautiful demonstration of sexual purity that the young Shulamite maiden chooses despite her intense longing for her lover. After all, that is what God asks of us, right? And yet, all around, Christian marriages crumble after the news of infidelity, indiscretion and illicit encounters break.

Tonight, I am grieved for Jenny Sanford, the wife of South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford, and her four sons who now face public disgrace under very humiliating circumstances. I do not know her, but she is my sister. Her Christian faith is evidenced in a compelling statement released today that can be read here. And sadly, what can also be read on the Internet by anyone who cares to read it, are some of the explicit emails that Mr. Sanford exchanged with his adulterous lover.

Also in the news this week, Jon and Kate Gosselin, parents of eight beautiful children, and who also claim to share my Christian faith, have announced they will seek a divorce after rumors of extramarital encounters have surfaced. Never mind that there are eight little lives who will suffer as a result of the public spotlight their parents have placed them in, an adult's gotta do what an adult's gotta do, right?

So, is it inevitable that nearly every marriage will experience an implosion of some sort? I know it isn't because I have seen successes--marriages that don't make headlines or tabloids, yet are newsworthy nonetheless. I've watched my parents walk the "for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and in health," road for 55 years. And they are not alone, others in my life have stayed the course and chosen to love when they didn't "feel" like loving and have been selfless in this selfish world.

In this life there are choices to make and they are never made in a vacuum. Mark Sanford, shame on you for choosing to cheat. Yes, God forgives those who genuinely repent and maybe you have done just that. I am certainly not your judge and I won't even play jury--but I will say this, my heart is breaking for your wife and sons, and I write this tonight asking that all who read these words pray for your heart to turn back toward home and for God to lovingly, mercifully, abundantly bless your heartbroken wife and sons.

Father, save Christian marriages in this age of selfish indulgence--and help those of us who claim your name to be examples of passionate purity and fervent faith who stay the course with your help and for your glory.

Prayers and Psalms...

The evening news brings stories of struggles around the world, evil that is rampant, people who are cruel and regimes that wickedly dominate and oppress all who oppose them. The reports are hard to hear and difficult to imagine, yet as I read scripture, it becomes clear that our news in the 2000's is quite similar to the news that would have been reported in the days of the kings of Israel.

The verses today are Psalm 119: 89 through 176. Years ago, I started praying many of the Psalms aloud as part of my prayers to God, personalizing applicable verses and reciting these songs of praise that so eloquently tell of His excellent greatness.

I encourage you to do the same sometimes. Reading these beautiful words that were written so many years ago is a precious reminder that although evil has always existed, it does not have to prevail in the lives of those who walk by faith in the Risen Lord. What a blessing to pray with the Psalmists, asking God to guide, protect, and use us as we recite our praises to the One who alone is worthy!
Psalm 119:
89 Your eternal word, O Lord,
stands firm in heaven.
90 Your faithfulness extends to every generation,
as enduring as the earth you created.
91 Your regulations remain true to this day,
for everything serves your plans.
105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feet
and a light for my path.
133 Guide my steps by your word,
so I will not be overcome by evil.
137 O Lord, you are righteous,
and your regulations are fair.
175 Let me live so I can praise you,
and may your regulations help me.

Little Woman...

Disclaimer: I do not know this child, she is not one of my granddaughters, but she is adorable nonetheless. See if you agree!

This hilarious clip prompted a deviation from Bible blogging this morning for your viewing pleasure--enjoy...

Wise Guys (and girls)...

I love to imagine the scene from fairy tales where a Genie offers to grant a wish. It's during those daydreams that I ponder what I'd ask for, and over the course of my life I can recall quite a vast array of notions.

I think my list has ranged from the material to world peace and back again--but today's scripture provides an example of the best possible request. In 1 Kings 3 and 4, David's son, Solomon, is king. In a dream, God appears and asks him what he wants.

Imagine that! The God of the universe, the owner of the cattle on a thousand hills, asking you to name it--whatever you want! My fear is that given that possibility and privilege, I'd blow it by asking for something stupid or ridiculous rather than responding as Solomon did--with careful, reflective wisdom. So what was this thing that he requested? Just that--wisdom. Take a look at what Solomon said:

1 Kings 3:10: Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?” The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom. 11 So God replied, “Because you have asked for wisdom in governing my people with justice and have not asked for a long life or wealth or the death of your enemies—12 I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have! 13 And I will also give you what you did not ask for—riches and fame!

Today's scriptures, 1 Kings 3-4; 2 Chronicles 1; and Psalm 72, include additional fascinating details, including a demonstration of Solomon's God-given wisdom when two women each claimed to be the mother of the same baby.

As I consider the most important take-away from these passages, I hope you are challenged to recognize and value what really matters. Scripture affirms that the beginning of wisdom is fear of the Lord. This "fear" means healthy respect, reverence and awe that results from awareness that God alone is Lord.

I pray--with all that is in me--that God grants me wisdom and that He does the same for you. And even more, I pray that you yearn for Godly wisdom and seek Him with all your heart so that when you are faced with choices--or options--that you will always choose wisely.

Psalm 72: (a Psalm of Solomon)
18 Praise the Lord God, the God of Israel,
who alone does such wonderful things.
19 Praise his glorious name forever!
Let the whole earth be filled with his glory.
Amen and amen!

Give me sense...

If a day can be perfect, this one was pretty close. I know it isn't over yet, but I must thank God for the "so far".

Going to church is always great, but this morning was particularly good because Steven led worship with an obvious anointing that ushered in God's presence and made it easy to remember the reason we were there.

What a joy to know (and remember) that when it's all said and done, it's all about God! Throughout this day I've enjoyed little reminders of His greatness and His goodness, His power and His perfection.

After lunch with our children and grandchildren, we enjoyed some outside time by the pool and were surprised by a visit from two of our "adopted" kids who brought news that they are expecting their first child early next year. We couldn't be more ecstatic to know that another little life is being fashioned in the image of God!

Life. It really is a miracle and a reminder of how creative God is. As we eagerly await the arrival of our third granddaughter, I marvel at the mystery of God's amazing design.

Today's verses are among the most poetic in scripture. Psalm 119, verses 1-88, capture my heart with challenging words and insightful reminders that we are here for a reason and that life is a beautiful, sometimes chaotic journey that affords us the opportunity to choose to seek, find and follow the One who loves us most, or to follow the road well-traveled with all those who reject and deny their need for The Lord.

Thank you Father, that you have chosen to reveal yourself to all who seek you and that your Word brings comfort, consolation and confidence to all who place their trust in You!

Psalm 119:
18 Open my eyes to see
the wonderful truths in your instructions.
29 Keep me from lying to myself;
give me the privilege of knowing your instructions.
35 Make me walk along the path of your commands,
for that is where my happiness is found.
37 Turn my eyes from worthless things,
and give me life through your word.
73 You made me; you created me.
Now give me the sense to follow your commands.

Only God Can...

If you haven't yet, you one day will meet someone who is a self-exalter. According to the dictionary, to "exalt" means to praise, glorify or honor. When a person seriously exalts him or herself, there is always a reason--and usually it is a result of personal insecurity or doubts about their perceived worth or value.

In today's scriptures, 1 Kings 1 and 2, and Psalm 37,71 and 94, we learn that David's fourth son, Adonijah, decided to make himself king. Two of his older brothers were dead (Amnon and Absalom) and the other son who would have also been older, Chileab, may also have been dead because he was never mentioned again after 2 Samuel 3:3.

In making the decision to pronounce himself king, Adonijah violated one of scriptures principles: it is up to God to exalt us.

For exaltation comes neither from the east
Nor from the west nor from the south.
But God is the Judge: He puts down one,
And exalts another. (Psalm 75:6-7)

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. (James 4:10)

Reading through these chapters is fascinating because we learn here that no matter how we may connive, when something conflicts with God's will, it simply will not happen. Regardless of all our striving, our efforts are vain and our self-promotion is futile when we operate outside of God's plan.

The truth is that nobody enjoys being in the presence of someone who brags, applauds or otherwise exalts himself. I've often found myself feeling sorry for those who continually "toot their own horns," because it usually means there aren't loved ones or friends in their lives who will congratulate them when congratulations are in order, or build them up with encouraging words when deserved.

For that reason, although there are so many important lessons in today's passages, I want to focus on these two reminders.

#1. Leave the bragging about you to others and resist the temptation to exalt yourself no matter how difficult--that is God's privilege alone. To repeat a great quote, "He must increase, we must decrease."

#2. Speak words of loving encouragement to someone today. We may never know this side of heaven the impact of a complimentary conversation, but to the person who receives the kudos, it might prevent them from succumbing to the temptation to attempt patting their own back.

I love that God allows us to be his hands and feet while we journey here on earth, but I know that I fail Him every day. He wants people to feel loved, appreciated and encouraged through you and me. Let's go do some loving and appreciating today.

Father, help us seize every opportunity to tell someone who needs to know it that we appreciate them and recognize their value. And please, help us love them as You do. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Who's on First?

Me. It's a tiny little word that we all learn early. This morning, I stopped by Leslie's house to pick up some study material I needed in order to prepare for a class I'll be co-leading this summer at church. While there, I held Lilia for only a few seconds before Ava Grace noticed and started saying, "Me!". "Me!" "Me, Nana!"

Some people believe that humans are born basically good. This mistaken impression not only contradicts the teachings of scripture, it is a dangerous assumption because it can lead us to compare ourselves to each other (or really bad others) rather than comparing ourselves to our Holy, Heavenly Father.

In truth, we come into to the world bent on having things our way, getting what we want, and securing the good things first for ourselves. You only have to observe a toddler for minutes to see the sin nature rear its ugly head. Why share when we are bigger, stronger, or smarter? Why listen when what we're being told conflicts with what we prefer to do?

Just like little children, we often fail to see the harm or dangers that lurk on the other side of God's warnings and reminders. We want what we want, when we want it, exactly as we've ordered--anything less is insufficient for feeding our gluttonous fleshly appetites.

Today's scriptures are Psalm 111 through 118. The verses all paint incredible pictures of the majesty, glory and worthiness of God. We are reminded that it is in and through Him alone that we are secure and forgiven and that only when we submit and surrender to His Lordship can we say with the Psalmist that we "will not be overcome by evil," or that we "will not fear bad news".

But we, me, I, fight to be first--to be fed--to be foremost, to take the position that belongs only to God. Any attempt we make to find fulfillment and purpose apart from humble worship and submission to Christ is always vain and void. Consider these words from Psalm 115:

1 Not to us, O Lord, not to us,
but to your name goes all the glory
for your unfailing love and faithfulness.

Not to us! ALL glory and honor belongs to the Lord. Search, seek, and strive to take what is His for yourself and you will search a lifetime without success. Seek Him first--and His righteousness, and ALL that you really need will then be added. (Matthew 6:33)

To Summarize...

While vacationing, I read a book that many friends and loved ones have recommended, and it challenged me in a way that only God's Word has previously.

The book, "Crazy Love," by Francis Chan, does a pretty good job of explaining what it actually means to be pursued by a relentless God--and in turn, what it might look like if we, as his children, could grasp the depth, breadth and height of not only His love for us, but also His purity and holiness.

The scriptures that continue my chronological journey through the Bible today are 1 Chronicles 26-29, and Psalm 127. The passages explain the duties assigned to specific people near the end of King David's life and the eventual passing of the leadership torch to his son, Solomon.

I'm particularly fascinated by the way David's reign is summarized in
1 Chronicles 29: 26-28 So David son of Jesse reigned over all Israel. 27 He reigned over Israel for forty years, seven of them in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem. 28 He died at a ripe old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth, and honor. Then his son Solomon ruled in his place.

All of the prior details we've covered including the trials, terrors, tragedies and troubles of David's life are seemingly forgotten-- and only the good is recorded in the summary, which brings me to why I mentioned "Crazy Love" earlier. Francis Chan reminded me in the book that when this life ends, it's pretty definite that there will be a nice memorial service where nice things are said about me--but at that point, it won't matter. The only thing that will matter is Who I've served, and how that impacted the way my time was spent--what I invested in--who I invested in--what I was passionate about.

Scripture explains that we cannot serve two masters in Matthew 6:24. It also says that we are either for or against THE Lord in Luke 11:23. When we meet Him face to face, the only summary of our lives that counts will be how we responded to the compelling, overwhelming love of Christ and whether we said, "Yes," or "No," to His call for us to take up our cross and follow Him. Have you said yes, yet? I have, and there is no question more pressing, no decision more urgent, and no reason to delay.

Blessings, blessings, blessings...

Life has been a wonderful roller coaster ride since the middle of May--and I am going to take an opportunity tonight to post a few of the highlights.

On May 16, a beautiful Saturday morning, Leslie, Jessica and I hosted a baby shower brunch for my "adopted" daughter, Lindy. It was the perfect morning and oh so much fun. Precious Macie Ryan is due in July and we can't wait to welcome her! Here are a couple of the shower pictures...









On that same day, my favorite son-in-law, Steven, celebrated the day of his birth. We went to dinner the previous night to mark the milestone with food and festivities. Leslie appears substantially shorter in this photo because she was kneeling beside him for the picture. We, of course, must take the opportunity to tease her about having bowed to his highness. Happy Birthday Steven, we're so glad that God brought you into our lives...



Not to be outdone, my dad got into May 16th's action by falling from a ladder while pruning a tree. He was unconscious and suffered significant injuries and trauma, but without a doubt God answered the many prayers lifted for him by giving Dad a recovery that is miraculous. He is still black and blue from bruising and transfusing, but he is walking with only the assistance of a cane at this point! We love you Dad, and we're all thrilled that you are doing so well. May I be so bold as to suggest that you do some serious praying about what kind of assignment God has for you since you missed this great opportunity to leave us? You are hereby, officially, on ladder restriction!



On May 26, George and I celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary! He is my best friend and in fact, the best person I know. The photo here was taken after a heavy rain, so don't mistake the fog for halos--wink wink. Seriously though, God has blessed us and we are so grateful...


We enjoyed a cruise vacation to celebrate our anniversary. My sister, Lisa, and her husband, Dale, went with us. We had some moments that will go down in history--(ours at least)... I won't elaborate except to say that just the mention of her name makes me laugh out loud. I'm glad you're my friend, Lisa, and I can't wait for you to move back to Charlotte!


Finally, we returned to Charlotte just in time for me to turn 50. The surprise party that was thrown by my family was amazing. A steel drum band was playing by the pool when we returned from dinner--and about forty of my dearest friends and family were gathered to help me usher in this "golden" year. I understand that my sister, Kathie, worked feverishly to get this whole thing set up while we were at dinner. Did I already say I'm blessed?

In my mind, I'm still eighteen, but I guess the proof's in the pudding--I'm not looking so young anymore. But I wouldn't change one thing if I could because these years have allowed me to experience God's grace, mercy and blessings in ways that I wouldn't trade for all the wrinkle-free, jiggleless days of youth in the world.


























So...I plan to resume the Bible blog tomorrow, Lord willing, but hopefully, these pictures and details will explain the blogging absence. For each of you who have wished me happy birthday, happy anniversary, or happy sailing, I say THANK YOU! You are the blessings for which I am grateful every day and I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. Philippians 1:3

Love,
Sandy

Give us this day...

It's 11:45 p.m. and I haven't written my blog about today's scripture passage yet. My commitment to this process includes my determination not to be haphazard or half-hearted about what I write, yet honesty compels me to admit I'm weary and tired today and might miss something special if I proceed or forge ahead with new verses. For that reason, I am re-reading the prior day's verses and camping out with Psalm 139, one of the most beautiful chapters in all of scripture.

For almost two weeks now I've been focused on my dad's recovery from a serious accident. Honestly, when I first saw him in the Emergency Room after his fall, I wasn't certain he'd pull through. I've since told him that it's definite that God isn't finished with him yet because he missed a really good chance to die on May 16.

Daddy will have many difficult days ahead. He will require medication to ease his pain, assistance walking, and physical therapy--but he is here--and for that I give God thanks and praise.

Yesterday's scriptures included Psalm 139. The words of David convey the truth of God's intimate knowledge of us, and it is through this knowledge that my Dad is being repaired and restored for the work He has for him as Daddy continues to walk by faith in the One who heals.

My Dad was released from the hospital tonight. I have always believed in miracles, but truly, today, I've witnessed one. God is knitting Dad back together again and allowing us the privilege of continued fellowship this side of eternity. All praise and honor to The One who made the delicate, inner parts of our body and can remake them when they are broken!

Psalm 139:
13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
15 You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion,
as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.
16 You saw me before I was born.
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out
before a single day had passed.
17 How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.
They cannot be numbered!
18 I can’t even count them;
they outnumber the grains of sand!
And when I wake up,
you are still with me!

Being his bride...

Thirty years ago today, I was a bride. I was young, naive, and in many ways ignorant--but I knew one thing, I loved my groom.

As I consider the blessings of my marriage, one of the greatest is probably the fact that it is so hard to believe that this many years have passed. It is surreal actually, to think that we have been together for more years than we lived separately.

In the ceremony uniting us, the words, "the two shall become one," sounded nice, but really meant little more to me than the idea of sharing things--a house, a car, bills, a bed. Thirty years later, they mean so much more.

We are two yet one. We have discovered that becoming one means we value the strengths we've come to depend on in the other, and we remain devoted in spite of the individual weaknesses we battle. We have honored the covenant commitment we made in 1979, and we refused to give up when the going got tough. We held on to the promise of better days when the days were dark, and we celebrated the joys of wonderful moments that sometimes took us by surprise.

I have come to believe that our enemy hates marriage and labors to destroy all of them that he can. He uses tactics that are as old as Methuselah, but his batting average is way too high.

As I reflect on the years of our marriage, I know there is just one reason we've defied the odds--Jesus Christ. Ecclesiastes 4:12 says that a chord of three strands is not easily broken. Christ has been the glue that has secured our marriage, ensuring its success. He is the third strand (and the most important one) in the chord that has become "us".

Today's verses, 1 Chronicles 23 through 25, Psalms 108, 109,110, 131, 138, 139, 143, 144, and 145 are all inspirational and informational, but I will close by highlighting Psalm 139, a Psalm of David that reminds me that my life is not my own--it was planned and purposed by God--and if I live to be 100 and have thirty more wedding anniversaries, I will never be able to thank Him enough for giving me a glimpse of what it means to be His bride through the privilege of being George's.

Psalm 139:
1 O Lord, you have examined my heart
and know everything about me.
2 You know when I sit down or stand up.
You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.
3 You see me when I travel
and when I rest at home.
You know everything I do.
4 You know what I am going to say
even before I say it, Lord.
5 You go before me and follow me.
You place your hand of blessing on my head.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too great for me to understand!

Daddy today...

For my friends who are checking this blog for updates on Daddy, I'm thrilled to say that he continues to improve. He still has a journey ahead and the prayer requests remain the same:

Compassionate, exceptional, mistake-free care
No infections or pneumonia
Healing of bones, bruises, and breaks--especially his back pain.

Unless there are significant developments or changes, I will only be posting updates on facebook from here on out and will resume my attempt to blog daily at this site as I try to write about my daily reading of the Bible in order of its historical chronology for my grandchildren.

Thank you for your love and prayers for Daddy. Your concern is precious to our family.

Following, listening, leading...

You might be a leader if:
You are visionary.
You are motivated.
You can motivate.
You are determined.
You are tenacious.
You are wise.
You are trustworthy.
You can communicate convincingly with integrity.
You are honest.
You are dependable.
You are undaunted.

and...
You know when to follow.

Today's passages are difficult. 2 Samuel 24 and 1 Chronicles 21-22 and Psalm 30 are scriptures that include the account of David's decision to take a census, something that clearly defied God's stated principle of Exodus 30--the one that explained God's ownership of his people and prohibited men from counting what does not belong to them unless instructed to do so by God.

In these verses, Joab, one of David's men, tactfully questioned David's decision and even hinted that his motivation might be pride, but David did not listen to Joab. Nor would he listen to the Captains of his Armies as they warned him against taking the census.

David's men followed their leader's instructions despite their concerns, and the process took almost ten months. When it was finally complete, David's heart condemned him--suddenly, he recognized the seriousness of the choice he'd made. He confessed his sin to God and learned that in spite of God's willingness to forgive him, there would still be grave consequences to pay for his actions. I'm sure that when David ordered the census, he never dreamed it would cause the loss of 70,000 lives.

Scripture is clear, David was an amazing and gifted leader. Many of the wonderful qualities required of great leaders were exhibited in his life, and we know that he was a man after God's own heart--so what went wrong in these chapters?

David fell prey to the peril of pride and when given the opportunity to avoid the pitfalls that accompanied the sin, he arrogantly pressed on with his plan.

My prayer for you my sweet ones is that if you are ever in a position of leadership you remember this very important lesson from scripture. No leader is infallible. No leader is guaranteed a perfect record. No leader is always right all of the time.

If God allows you to lead, He will also surround you with people who have strengths that you don't possess in order to help you see your blind spots. It's at those times that you will be wise to listen--and then become--the follower.

God never leads us to do anything that contradicts His Word and He will never fail to provide a way of escape when we are tempted by our flesh, whether by pride, egotism, lust, greed, or any other weakness, to make the wrong choice.

A great leader doesn't just lead, she also knows when to follow.

David was forgiven for his sin, but his refusal to follow the advice of his trusted companions resulted in tragedy.

Heavenly Father, help us be willing to listen and follow as we learn to lead by following the only perfect example--our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Friday...

The only explanation for Dad's amazing progress is prayer. When I first reported his accident, I honestly believed that his injuries were life altering and that he would be completely bed ridden for weeks or months.

Today, he walked a few steps with a walker, and although he still has serious pain all over his body, he is pushing through the agony with the same stubborn determination that landed him in the hospital in the first place.

He (and all of us) thank you for your faith-filled prayers. There is no doubt in my mind that God has honored the requests that have been lifted and I trust that we will continue to marvel at the amazing healing grace He is giving my Dad.

Thursday...

One day soon I will resume my Bible blogging--Lord willing. Until then, for those who are checking in to see how Dad is doing, I have wonderful news tonight.

After a rough morning, he had a good afternoon and hopefully is resting well this evening. We had some good conversation today when he was awake and he even attempted to be funny a couple of times. I do emphasize the word "attempted" here--but it was wonderful to see him smile and chuckle.

If you pray for him, please join me in asking The Lord to give him compassionate, exceptional care and to protect him from infection, and then send up some praise for the answered prayer we've already experienced. We will forever be grateful for your love and concern.

Wednesday Update

Dad was moved to a regular room today so we are very hopeful that the next phase of his treatment will be as excellent as the care he received in CVMC's Intensive Care Unit.

The only serious concern today was that his blood sugar dropped significantly enough that he was unable to communicate. Initially, not knowing what was going on, Mom thought it was a stroke--so we are very thankful that it was something easily treated. The fact that he really hasn't eaten since before the accident and had a scary episode this afternoon should encourage them to monitor him more carefully from here on out.

We continue to ask for your prayers and appreciate each and every one of you who takes a moment to lift him in prayer.

Father, bless our faithful pray-ers and make them know how grateful we are for them and for their love. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Daddy today...

Dad slept most of the day, but when he was awake he did a great job cooperating with the respiratory therapist as he endured the painful breathing machine routine. He also tried to eat a little jello, but that wasn't too successful.

The prayer needs remain the same--

*Exceptional, compassionate, mistake-free care
*No ileus
*No pneumonia
*The ability to forgive himself

He is our hero and a trooper. Our family thanks each person who has taken the time to pray. We are humbled and grateful beyond words.

Quick Dad Update...

Thank you to all who have prayed and will pray for my dad. Today, he is very quiet and has been heavily sedated. He has expressed some anger though (at himself) for the decision he made to trim the tree via the ladder.

My request is that you join me in praying that he doesn't develop ileus (a temporary paralysis of part of the intestines) which is a big risk factor, and also that he doesn't get pneumonia. Also, please ask The Lord to help him forgive himself.

Those who are caring for him have been wonderful and are doing everything they can to make him comfortable. We are so grateful for them, for your prayers and for God's mercy.

Pray for Dad...

As this day draws to a close, I'm asking anyone who reads this note to pray for my dad. Today, he decided to climb a ladder to "shape-up" a wayward Bradford Pear that was "on his nerves". Unfortunately, my mother wasn't at home when he decided to do his tree trimming.

When Dad didn't answer her phone call as she headed home from my house, Mom persisted, finally reaching him, but quickly realizing that he wasn't making sense.

To make a very long story short, he was on an eight foot ladder when he took a terrible tumble that has resulted in three broken ribs, a broken shoulder, a concussion, a possibly/probably broken left thumb and some internal blood loss.

He has been given plasma and blood and is holding his own (he is tough) but the next few days will be critical for him. I am posting this blog tonight despite exhaustion because I wanted to say that my dad is a gift--this man who is in so much pain that it is almost unbearable even with the large doses of morphine they are giving him, could not let us leave his bedside without telling each of us what we mean to him and how fervently he prays for us and our families every day--several times a day.

What a blessing to be prayed for like this--I will never be able to thank God enough for an earthly dad who loves and prays so consistently, and now, I am praying for him and hoping you will join me in asking God to wrap His arms around my sweet, stubborn daddy, giving him exceptional, compassionate medical care.

Thank you!
Love,
Sandy

Blog-in problems...

I mentioned last week that I might not be able to post daily for the next couple of weeks, but I wanted to let those who checked in Tuesday and Wednesday know that I have had technical trouble with blogger/blogspot.

Today it seems to be working again, so hopefully the glitch is remedied permanently. I've written a new post below for my grandgirls--all three of them--the two who are already born and the little girl who will join the family in October! Please pray for Nichole and David as they await the birth of their first daughter.

and...be blessed tonight!

Soli Deo Gloria,
Sandy

Tremble time...

When I was a child, things were different. It was generally accepted by the media and society that there was one God and that it would be wise to make at least some attempt to find out what He expects of us, what He is like and how to stay on His good side.

Today, things have changed. I just listened to a news report that was practically celebrated by the mainstream media stating that atheism is on the rise. I also just heard a well-known news celebrity report that as he was listening in to a conference call among CBS execs who were deliberating what to cover the next day, someone mentioned that a prominent Christian leader would be in Washington by stating: "That nutty Christian so-in-so is in town...".

The man who shared this information pointed out that it would be professional suicide to say, "That nutty gay activist so-in-so," or "that nutty ACLU attorney," etc., and yet it is generally considered fine to express disdain, hostility, disapproval or prejudice toward people of Christian faith.

It really is sad, because as I have said before, I think it requires tremendous faith to believe that everything is random and accidental rather than the product of an Intelligent Designer who knows, sees and cares about His creation.

Today's verses, Psalm 95, 97, 98 and 99, all provide beautiful examples of the kind of faith that God "gifts" those who seek Him.

Listen to these words from Psalm 95:
3 For the Lord is a great God,
a great King above all gods.
4 He holds in his hands the depths of the earth
and the mightiest mountains.
5 The sea belongs to him, for he made it.
His hands formed the dry land, too.
6 Come, let us worship and bow down.
Let us kneel before the Lord our maker,
7 for he is our God.
We are the people he watches over,
the flock under his care.
If only you would listen to his voice today!
8 The Lord says, “Don’t harden your hearts...

We have a choice, we can harden our hearts and turn away from the One who loves us most, or we can seek and find Him, receiving the gift of faith that leads to our salvation in Christ.

As it continues to be politically and socially acceptable to ridicule people of faith, I pray for you my precious grandchildren, that you will take courage, stand firm on the foundation cannot be shaken, walk by faith and not by sight and then pray for those who ignorantly mock us with the pity they deserve because they are wandering in the wilderness of the lost.

When we have tasted and seen that The Lord is good (Psalm 34:8) what other choice are we to consider?

Psalm 99: 1~ The Lord is king! Let the nations tremble!