Love vs. lust, lust vs. love--the subject of novels, movies, songs, and stories--and the topic of today's passages of scripture in this historical journey through God's Word.
The promise that The Lord made to David after he confessed his sin with Bathsheba comes to fruition in 2 Samuel chapters 13 through 15. David's son Amnon fell in lust (he claimed it was love) with his half sister, and with the help of his cousin Jonadab, he devised a scheme that would ensure the opportunity to be alone with her.
The plan included lies and deceit that culminated with the rape of David's beautiful virgin daughter Tamar, after which, Amnon totally rejected her.
If this story was made into a movie, I think the big takeaway (for young women at least) would have to be a reminder to beware of the young man who flatters you, showers you with attention, treats you with kindness and does all the right things to get you to notice him.
Rare is the fellow who hasn't confused lust with love. Amnon told his cousin that he loved Tamar, but if he had truly been in love with her he would never have forced himself on her sexually or treated her with such contempt after the rape. He was like thousands of other young men who want sex because they are in lust--and Tamar's life was altered dramatically as a result of his selfishness.
If you read the entire passage, you will discover that Absalom, another of Tamar's brothers, killed Amnon, and then also turned against his father, David. The numerous tragedies of these stories all point back to a time when David made a choice to turn his back on God and follow his own lust.
God's Word does not conceal ugly details or difficult passages, and it is through these stories that we can learn so much about what not to do. God does not give us boundaries in order to rob our joy or steal our fun--he gives us boundaries in order to protect and guard our hearts--and I pray that we all gratefully allow Him to do just that.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Confession: It really is good for the soul!
Why is it difficult to confess when we do what we shouldn't, or don't do what we should? Sometimes even very young children are adept deceivers, manipulators and connivers--just ask a school teacher.
When we learn at an early age that we can spin, stretch or conceal the truth just enough to stay out of trouble, patterns may develop that do serious harm later.
King David learned this lesson the hard way after his sin with Bathsheba. The Psalms he wrote that are today's scriptures (Psalm 32, 51, 86, and 122)remind us that it is a beautiful thing to come clean with God by confessing and turning from the things we've done that are wrong.
If you feel that God is not hearing your prayers--or you are experiencing a sense of a loss of intimacy in your spiritual life--ask yourself if there is ANY unconfessed sin that could be hindering your relationship with the Father.
Each of these chapters is inspiring to read, but listen to David's words from Psalm 51 as you consider the importance of confession and repentance:
1 Have mercy on me, O God,
because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion,
blot out the stain of my sins.
2 Wash me clean from my guilt.
Purify me from my sin.
3 For I recognize my rebellion;
it haunts me day and night.
4 Against you, and you alone, have I sinned;
I have done what is evil in your sight.
7 Purify me from my sins,and I will be clean;
wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
8 Oh, give me back my joy again;
you have broken me—
now let me rejoice.
9 Don’t keep looking at my sins.
Remove the stain of my guilt.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God.
Renew a loyal spirit within me.
11 Do not banish me from your presence,
and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and make me willing to obey you.
13 Then I will teach your ways to rebels,
and they will return to you.
There really is joy in the journey when we are confessed and clean!
When we learn at an early age that we can spin, stretch or conceal the truth just enough to stay out of trouble, patterns may develop that do serious harm later.
King David learned this lesson the hard way after his sin with Bathsheba. The Psalms he wrote that are today's scriptures (Psalm 32, 51, 86, and 122)remind us that it is a beautiful thing to come clean with God by confessing and turning from the things we've done that are wrong.
If you feel that God is not hearing your prayers--or you are experiencing a sense of a loss of intimacy in your spiritual life--ask yourself if there is ANY unconfessed sin that could be hindering your relationship with the Father.
Each of these chapters is inspiring to read, but listen to David's words from Psalm 51 as you consider the importance of confession and repentance:
1 Have mercy on me, O God,
because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion,
blot out the stain of my sins.
2 Wash me clean from my guilt.
Purify me from my sin.
3 For I recognize my rebellion;
it haunts me day and night.
4 Against you, and you alone, have I sinned;
I have done what is evil in your sight.
7 Purify me from my sins,and I will be clean;
wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
8 Oh, give me back my joy again;
you have broken me—
now let me rejoice.
9 Don’t keep looking at my sins.
Remove the stain of my guilt.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God.
Renew a loyal spirit within me.
11 Do not banish me from your presence,
and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and make me willing to obey you.
13 Then I will teach your ways to rebels,
and they will return to you.
There really is joy in the journey when we are confessed and clean!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Counting the Cost First...
"Well, well, well," as the old lady once said, "deep subject." In the historical order of Biblical events, today's reading brings me to a passage that I believe is the most difficult in all of the Old Testament. So tragic is this account that it almost brought me to tears as I read this morning in much the same way that watching "The Notebook" always does--it just gets me, plain and simple.
2 Samuel 11 and 12 and 1 Chronicles 20 are the day's scriptures, and in these verses the story of David's sin with Bathsheba is told.
There are so many things that could be mentioned about this tragedy--but I think I will focus on the potential perils of yielding to temptation. David had many wives, yet when he saw Bathsheba (an interesting name for a woman who was taking a bath in view of the palace, huh?--I wonder if that is the origin of our word Bath?~)he didn't look away. He stared, then he inquired, then he summoned, then he slept with her. As a side note, no mention is made of her having resisted, but then again, he was the King.
All of the above happened while her husband was fighting bravely for Israel. In fact, he (Uriah) was one of David's "mighty men," and yet David apparently gave little thought to his sinful actions.
Scripture says that Bathsheba became pregnant from the illicit encounter, so something had to be done--and what better option than a cover up? David would send for Uriah and allow him a little furlough so that he would believe the child was his. But this extraordinary man refused to take advantage of the opportunity while his fellow soldiers were still in battle, so Plan A was foiled.
As a result, despicable Plan B was devised. It involved Uriah being moved to the front lines of battle so that he would be killed. This terrible plan was successful, so David and Bathsheba concealed their sin from everyone-- except God.
God sent Nathan, a prophet, to tell a story to David so that he could see how heinous his actions were. After listening to the "tale," David said that the person who would do such a thing deserved death. At that point, he realized that he was the guilty man and recognized the gravity of his sinful choices.
Make no mistake my precious ones, there IS pleasure in sin for a season. (see Hebrews 11:25.) But there are consequences when we choose to disobey the Lord, and he always knows what we have done even if we successfully keep it from others.
I have witnessed the benefit of confession in my own life and the lives of those I love. I have also endured the agony of concealed sin and learned as a result that it is only when we come clean before God and ask His forgiveness that we are able to experience intimacy with Him.
At the time of his temptation, David did not consider the cost of his choice. I am confident that he never imagined he'd be facing an unplanned pregnancy, the murder of an honorable soldier, a dead child, a daughter who was raped by one of his sons, a son who was murdered by his brother, and family discord the likes of which are terrifying to imagine.
Here are God's words to David about his sin:
2 Samuel 12:
11 “This is what the Lord says: Because of what you have done, I will cause your own household to rebel against you. I will give your wives to another man before your very eyes, and he will go to bed with them in public view. 12 You did it secretly, but I will make this happen to you openly in the sight of all Israel.”
God also asked David why he despised His Word. In our Father's sight, it is as if we loathe his word when we ignore its tenets. Any loving parent understands the tremendous disappointment that accompanies a child's rebellion. The agony associated with rejection of a parent's devotion and sacrifice is enormous.
I pray that this reminder from scripture helps us all count the cost first--before our actions suggest that we despise his Word.
Father, help us regard your Word as a treasure that we may not sin against you--and forgive us our many failures by the blood of our Savior Jesus who died in our place on the cross of suffering. Thank you for mercy. Praise you for grace. Help us remember, let us count the cost first, teach us to think, and make us holy.
2 Samuel 11 and 12 and 1 Chronicles 20 are the day's scriptures, and in these verses the story of David's sin with Bathsheba is told.
There are so many things that could be mentioned about this tragedy--but I think I will focus on the potential perils of yielding to temptation. David had many wives, yet when he saw Bathsheba (an interesting name for a woman who was taking a bath in view of the palace, huh?--I wonder if that is the origin of our word Bath?~)he didn't look away. He stared, then he inquired, then he summoned, then he slept with her. As a side note, no mention is made of her having resisted, but then again, he was the King.
All of the above happened while her husband was fighting bravely for Israel. In fact, he (Uriah) was one of David's "mighty men," and yet David apparently gave little thought to his sinful actions.
Scripture says that Bathsheba became pregnant from the illicit encounter, so something had to be done--and what better option than a cover up? David would send for Uriah and allow him a little furlough so that he would believe the child was his. But this extraordinary man refused to take advantage of the opportunity while his fellow soldiers were still in battle, so Plan A was foiled.
As a result, despicable Plan B was devised. It involved Uriah being moved to the front lines of battle so that he would be killed. This terrible plan was successful, so David and Bathsheba concealed their sin from everyone-- except God.
God sent Nathan, a prophet, to tell a story to David so that he could see how heinous his actions were. After listening to the "tale," David said that the person who would do such a thing deserved death. At that point, he realized that he was the guilty man and recognized the gravity of his sinful choices.
Make no mistake my precious ones, there IS pleasure in sin for a season. (see Hebrews 11:25.) But there are consequences when we choose to disobey the Lord, and he always knows what we have done even if we successfully keep it from others.
I have witnessed the benefit of confession in my own life and the lives of those I love. I have also endured the agony of concealed sin and learned as a result that it is only when we come clean before God and ask His forgiveness that we are able to experience intimacy with Him.
At the time of his temptation, David did not consider the cost of his choice. I am confident that he never imagined he'd be facing an unplanned pregnancy, the murder of an honorable soldier, a dead child, a daughter who was raped by one of his sons, a son who was murdered by his brother, and family discord the likes of which are terrifying to imagine.
Here are God's words to David about his sin:
2 Samuel 12:
11 “This is what the Lord says: Because of what you have done, I will cause your own household to rebel against you. I will give your wives to another man before your very eyes, and he will go to bed with them in public view. 12 You did it secretly, but I will make this happen to you openly in the sight of all Israel.”
God also asked David why he despised His Word. In our Father's sight, it is as if we loathe his word when we ignore its tenets. Any loving parent understands the tremendous disappointment that accompanies a child's rebellion. The agony associated with rejection of a parent's devotion and sacrifice is enormous.
I pray that this reminder from scripture helps us all count the cost first--before our actions suggest that we despise his Word.
Father, help us regard your Word as a treasure that we may not sin against you--and forgive us our many failures by the blood of our Savior Jesus who died in our place on the cross of suffering. Thank you for mercy. Praise you for grace. Help us remember, let us count the cost first, teach us to think, and make us holy.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Trustworthy Father, Mighty to Save!
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Alone? Bruised? Beaten up on by the world? To whom do you turn? Have you already learned life's hard lesson that there are very few genuinely trustworthy people with whom you can share your deepest wounds and sorrows?
Some people seem to have an easy time sharing their struggles and difficulties, while others, like me, don't. The existence of this year long Bible journey's public format is, in fact, quite a departure from my normal M.O. because in it I have disclosed many very personal ponderings and failures.
The truth is though, I realize that we all have junk--stuff in our lives that causes us to doubt ourselves, distrust others, and sometimes even doubt God. So what does God think about us when we find ourselves flailing and failing as we struggle to make sense of the things that seem senseless? His love endures forever. (Psalm 136)
Much can be learned from King David, who although he held the highest position in all of Israel and is regarded to this day as one of history's greatest figures, struggled with personal doubt, confusion, persecution, and pain that probably makes much of what most people endure pale in comparison.
Today's scriptures are all Psalms. In chapters 65,66,67,69, and 70 David praises God and also transparently expresses the sort of raw emotion that one who has been run through a ringer backward might feel.
What a blessing to know by virtue of the example he provides that we can confide in God, trusting that he will never betray us and that his forgiveness and mercy is available to all who cry out to him in their time of turmoil. Like King David, we can talk openly, honestly, boldly to the One who understands and comforts knowing that His unfailing love guards even our deepest secrets and fears.
Hear the cry of a man after God's own heart and learn of a Lord who is Mighty to Save!
Psalm 69:
1 Save me, O God,
for the floodwaters are up to my neck.
2 Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire;
I can’t find a foothold.
I am in deep water,
and the floods overwhelm me.
3 I am exhausted from crying for help;
my throat is parched.
My eyes are swollen with weeping,
waiting for my God to help me.
4 Those who hate me without cause
outnumber the hairs on my head.
Many enemies try to destroy me with lies,
demanding that I give back what I didn’t steal.
5 O God, you know how foolish I am;
my sins cannot be hidden from you.
6 Don’t let those who trust in you be ashamed because of me,
O Sovereign Lord of Heaven’s Armies.
Don’t let me cause them to be humiliated,
O God of Israel.
Psalm 66:
16 Come and listen, all you who fear God,
and I will tell you what he did for me.
17 For I cried out to him for help,
praising him as I spoke.
18 If I had not confessed the sin in my heart,
the Lord would not have listened.
19 But God did listen!
He paid attention to my prayer.
20 Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer
or withdraw his unfailing love from me.
Some people seem to have an easy time sharing their struggles and difficulties, while others, like me, don't. The existence of this year long Bible journey's public format is, in fact, quite a departure from my normal M.O. because in it I have disclosed many very personal ponderings and failures.
The truth is though, I realize that we all have junk--stuff in our lives that causes us to doubt ourselves, distrust others, and sometimes even doubt God. So what does God think about us when we find ourselves flailing and failing as we struggle to make sense of the things that seem senseless? His love endures forever. (Psalm 136)
Much can be learned from King David, who although he held the highest position in all of Israel and is regarded to this day as one of history's greatest figures, struggled with personal doubt, confusion, persecution, and pain that probably makes much of what most people endure pale in comparison.
Today's scriptures are all Psalms. In chapters 65,66,67,69, and 70 David praises God and also transparently expresses the sort of raw emotion that one who has been run through a ringer backward might feel.
What a blessing to know by virtue of the example he provides that we can confide in God, trusting that he will never betray us and that his forgiveness and mercy is available to all who cry out to him in their time of turmoil. Like King David, we can talk openly, honestly, boldly to the One who understands and comforts knowing that His unfailing love guards even our deepest secrets and fears.
Hear the cry of a man after God's own heart and learn of a Lord who is Mighty to Save!
Psalm 69:
1 Save me, O God,
for the floodwaters are up to my neck.
2 Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire;
I can’t find a foothold.
I am in deep water,
and the floods overwhelm me.
3 I am exhausted from crying for help;
my throat is parched.
My eyes are swollen with weeping,
waiting for my God to help me.
4 Those who hate me without cause
outnumber the hairs on my head.
Many enemies try to destroy me with lies,
demanding that I give back what I didn’t steal.
5 O God, you know how foolish I am;
my sins cannot be hidden from you.
6 Don’t let those who trust in you be ashamed because of me,
O Sovereign Lord of Heaven’s Armies.
Don’t let me cause them to be humiliated,
O God of Israel.
Psalm 66:
16 Come and listen, all you who fear God,
and I will tell you what he did for me.
17 For I cried out to him for help,
praising him as I spoke.
18 If I had not confessed the sin in my heart,
the Lord would not have listened.
19 But God did listen!
He paid attention to my prayer.
20 Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer
or withdraw his unfailing love from me.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Righting Wrongs...
One of the most difficult things about motherhood has been resisting the urge to fight battles for my children when life seemed to treat them unfairly. It's also challenging to avoid taking matters into my own hands when I've been the victim of mistreatment.
In today's scripture passage, life takes an unfair turn for Israel. Chapter 10 of 2nd Samuel and chapter 19 of 1st Chronicles detail the same events, and Psalm 20 records David's thoughts about God's gracious help when we face such situations.
The Bible explains that after the Ammonite King, Nahash, died, David decided that the right thing to do was to show kindness and loyalty to the king's son and successor, Hanun.
Unfortunately, when David sent some of his men there as ambassadors to express condolences and extend an olive branch, some of King Hanun's advisors convinced him that David's men were probably not sincere, and that they'd likely come to spy on the city so that they could conquer it.
What they proceeded to do to David's ambassadors was atrociously humiliating to these Jewish men, so David advised them to stay in Jericho until they had healed from the unprovoked, unfair, hateful lies and mistreatment of the Ammonites.
Why did King Hanun's advisors make up lies about David's intentions? I imagine that they hoped to seem shrewd and smart in the eyes of their new king. But the truth is, those who tell lies typically suspect that everyone else is a liar. For that reason, they probably anticipated that David would be as dishonest as they were, so they devised a preemptive strike of sorts.
Sometimes, people may say things about us that are untrue for reasons we may never understand. Accepting that it's often necessary to wait on God for the truth to be revealed has allowed me to learn that He delights in righting wrongs in ways that are much better than anything we could mastermind.
In today's passage of scripture, David again trusted that God would fight his battles, and as a result, miraculous things happened. Our flesh often cries out for vengeance, but as I've said before, vengeance belongs to the Lord alone.
When the day comes that someone speaks dishonestly about you--and it will very likely happen--remember that there is One who knows the truth and He can be trusted to make all wrongs right--in His time, on His terms, with His truth!
In today's scripture passage, life takes an unfair turn for Israel. Chapter 10 of 2nd Samuel and chapter 19 of 1st Chronicles detail the same events, and Psalm 20 records David's thoughts about God's gracious help when we face such situations.
The Bible explains that after the Ammonite King, Nahash, died, David decided that the right thing to do was to show kindness and loyalty to the king's son and successor, Hanun.
Unfortunately, when David sent some of his men there as ambassadors to express condolences and extend an olive branch, some of King Hanun's advisors convinced him that David's men were probably not sincere, and that they'd likely come to spy on the city so that they could conquer it.
What they proceeded to do to David's ambassadors was atrociously humiliating to these Jewish men, so David advised them to stay in Jericho until they had healed from the unprovoked, unfair, hateful lies and mistreatment of the Ammonites.
Why did King Hanun's advisors make up lies about David's intentions? I imagine that they hoped to seem shrewd and smart in the eyes of their new king. But the truth is, those who tell lies typically suspect that everyone else is a liar. For that reason, they probably anticipated that David would be as dishonest as they were, so they devised a preemptive strike of sorts.
Sometimes, people may say things about us that are untrue for reasons we may never understand. Accepting that it's often necessary to wait on God for the truth to be revealed has allowed me to learn that He delights in righting wrongs in ways that are much better than anything we could mastermind.
In today's passage of scripture, David again trusted that God would fight his battles, and as a result, miraculous things happened. Our flesh often cries out for vengeance, but as I've said before, vengeance belongs to the Lord alone.
When the day comes that someone speaks dishonestly about you--and it will very likely happen--remember that there is One who knows the truth and He can be trusted to make all wrongs right--in His time, on His terms, with His truth!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Foolishness and Faith...
Again the chronology of scripture takes us to the Psalms chapters 50,53,60 and 75. Having just attended evening services at church where I experienced the presence of God as we worshipped with friends and family, I cannot pass up the opportunity to mention this verse from Psalm 53:
1 Only fools say in their hearts,
“There is no God.”
Sadly, it seems that those who are most highly educated are often the same who claim to be agnostic or atheist. The tragedy in this is that God will reveal himself to every person who wants to know the truth, but thinking themselves wise, they have become fools.
My great prayer is that each of you, my grandchildren, will wisely seek Him and trust Christ as Lord. Hear the truth of The Word:
Jeremiah 29: 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD...
Romans 1: 20 For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.
1 Corinthians 1: 26 Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord."
1 Only fools say in their hearts,
“There is no God.”
Sadly, it seems that those who are most highly educated are often the same who claim to be agnostic or atheist. The tragedy in this is that God will reveal himself to every person who wants to know the truth, but thinking themselves wise, they have become fools.
My great prayer is that each of you, my grandchildren, will wisely seek Him and trust Christ as Lord. Hear the truth of The Word:
Jeremiah 29: 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD...
Romans 1: 20 For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.
1 Corinthians 1: 26 Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 that no one may boast before him. 30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord."
Friday, April 24, 2009
Who are we?
Who am I? It's a question everyone eventually asks, right? And it's usually followed by ponderings about purpose, priorities and principles. A beautiful story from today's reading gives us insights that help answer some of life's most significant questions.
2 Samuel 8 and 9 and 1 Chronicles 18 are the passages for today. They continue to explain events related to King David's reign, but chapter 9 of 2nd Samuel tells the story of Mephibosheth, one of my favorites in all of scripture.
Mephibosheth was the crippled grandson of King Saul. David sought him out and brought him to the palace so that he could show him kindness. He returned to him his rightful inheritance,and scripture says that Mephibosheth ate regularly at the king's table.
So, what does that have to do with who we are? We are like Mephibosheth before he met the king...we are in hiding, we are weak and we are lame. We are ignorant of all that the king offers, but like King David, Our King Jesus seeks us before we seek Him, offering an invitation for us to come and dine at His table!
When we accept His invitation, we are received as sons and daughters, enjoying unbroken fellowship with him. We aren't guaranteed total elimination of all our weaknesses or infirmities, but our relationship with The King paves the way for us to see ourselves in a new light that is truly transforming.
Pondering our purpose should also prompt us to consider David's actions. By all accounts, Mephibosheth was David's enemy--but he blessed him anyway.
God has given us the treasure of His Word. In it, he shows us pictures of who we are and who He is through accounts like this one that allow us to glimpse His merciful grace.
Thank you Father that you welcome us to your table and that your strength is perfected in our weaknesses. Your loving kindness is matchless and your generosity overwhelms.
2 Samuel 8 and 9 and 1 Chronicles 18 are the passages for today. They continue to explain events related to King David's reign, but chapter 9 of 2nd Samuel tells the story of Mephibosheth, one of my favorites in all of scripture.
Mephibosheth was the crippled grandson of King Saul. David sought him out and brought him to the palace so that he could show him kindness. He returned to him his rightful inheritance,and scripture says that Mephibosheth ate regularly at the king's table.
So, what does that have to do with who we are? We are like Mephibosheth before he met the king...we are in hiding, we are weak and we are lame. We are ignorant of all that the king offers, but like King David, Our King Jesus seeks us before we seek Him, offering an invitation for us to come and dine at His table!
When we accept His invitation, we are received as sons and daughters, enjoying unbroken fellowship with him. We aren't guaranteed total elimination of all our weaknesses or infirmities, but our relationship with The King paves the way for us to see ourselves in a new light that is truly transforming.
Pondering our purpose should also prompt us to consider David's actions. By all accounts, Mephibosheth was David's enemy--but he blessed him anyway.
God has given us the treasure of His Word. In it, he shows us pictures of who we are and who He is through accounts like this one that allow us to glimpse His merciful grace.
Thank you Father that you welcome us to your table and that your strength is perfected in our weaknesses. Your loving kindness is matchless and your generosity overwhelms.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Teach us to number...
Today our family celebrated a birthday. Kathie, the middle child in our family of three girls, was born on this day in a simpler and more innocent time. She was (and is) my funny sister, always entertaining us with outrageous, hilarious antics.
What a beautiful gift to have sisters. They get my jokes, relate to my issues and share many of my early memories including the time Daddy gave in to our pleas that he share his chewing tobacco. I have just one word for that memory--disgusting.
There are so many things that my sisters and I share, not the least of which is the blessing of a wonderful childhood. We didn't have a clue about what was fashionable--we could have cared less about name brands or labels--and we were completely thrilled to wear our handmade bead necklaces instead of "real" jewelry. We were content because we were loved. As long as we had a transistor radio that we could tune in to the station that played the music we liked (Big WAYS on the AM dial)and cold Koolaid in the fridge, we were as happy as larks.
I could go on and on recalling special and significant memories, but the last one I'll mention involves a time when I'd been reading scripture and trying to understand the book of Revelation. I had no study guide or commentary, just the good old King James version of the Bible. What I gleaned from my reading that night was that one day everything will be over as we know it, and at that point, being right with God is all that will matter. I understood that having asked Jesus Christ into my heart to be my Lord and Savior sealed my future destiny, but I could not rest that night without having a private conversation with each of my little sisters.
Separately, I invited them into my bedroom and asked them if they were positive they'd received Jesus Christ into their hearts. They both assured me they had and I slept peacefully despite the fearsome details of my earlier Revelation reading.
In the passages for today, scripture again returns to the Psalms, highlighting chapters 25,29,33,36 and 39.
When I called Kathie this morning to wish her Happy Birthday, we lamented the warp speed at which time seems to be passing in contrast to the long days of our childhood. As I think about birthdays--and the one I will be celebrating in just a few weeks if God allows, I am compelled to consider the truth of these words from chapter 39:
4 “Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be.
Remind me that my days are numbered—
how fleeting my life is.
5 You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand.
My entire lifetime is just a moment to you;
at best, each of us is but a breath."
King David understood that in the grand scheme of God's glorious plan, our lives on earth are a flash. For that reason, preparing for eternity must be our chief concern. As the daily news gets more gloomy and the times become more unsettling, hearing these promises bring the kind of sweet and innocent peace that I knew as a girl.
Psalm 33: 18 But the Lord watches over those who fear him,
those who rely on his unfailing love.
19 He rescues them from death
and keeps them alive in times of famine.
20 We put our hope in the Lord.
He is our help and our shield.
21 In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
22 Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord,
for our hope is in you alone. Amen!
What a beautiful gift to have sisters. They get my jokes, relate to my issues and share many of my early memories including the time Daddy gave in to our pleas that he share his chewing tobacco. I have just one word for that memory--disgusting.
There are so many things that my sisters and I share, not the least of which is the blessing of a wonderful childhood. We didn't have a clue about what was fashionable--we could have cared less about name brands or labels--and we were completely thrilled to wear our handmade bead necklaces instead of "real" jewelry. We were content because we were loved. As long as we had a transistor radio that we could tune in to the station that played the music we liked (Big WAYS on the AM dial)and cold Koolaid in the fridge, we were as happy as larks.
I could go on and on recalling special and significant memories, but the last one I'll mention involves a time when I'd been reading scripture and trying to understand the book of Revelation. I had no study guide or commentary, just the good old King James version of the Bible. What I gleaned from my reading that night was that one day everything will be over as we know it, and at that point, being right with God is all that will matter. I understood that having asked Jesus Christ into my heart to be my Lord and Savior sealed my future destiny, but I could not rest that night without having a private conversation with each of my little sisters.
Separately, I invited them into my bedroom and asked them if they were positive they'd received Jesus Christ into their hearts. They both assured me they had and I slept peacefully despite the fearsome details of my earlier Revelation reading.
In the passages for today, scripture again returns to the Psalms, highlighting chapters 25,29,33,36 and 39.
When I called Kathie this morning to wish her Happy Birthday, we lamented the warp speed at which time seems to be passing in contrast to the long days of our childhood. As I think about birthdays--and the one I will be celebrating in just a few weeks if God allows, I am compelled to consider the truth of these words from chapter 39:
4 “Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be.
Remind me that my days are numbered—
how fleeting my life is.
5 You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand.
My entire lifetime is just a moment to you;
at best, each of us is but a breath."
King David understood that in the grand scheme of God's glorious plan, our lives on earth are a flash. For that reason, preparing for eternity must be our chief concern. As the daily news gets more gloomy and the times become more unsettling, hearing these promises bring the kind of sweet and innocent peace that I knew as a girl.
Psalm 33: 18 But the Lord watches over those who fear him,
those who rely on his unfailing love.
19 He rescues them from death
and keeps them alive in times of famine.
20 We put our hope in the Lord.
He is our help and our shield.
21 In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
22 Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord,
for our hope is in you alone. Amen!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
My Heart, Your Temple...
Tonight, I had the joy of putting two little angels to bed after rocking and feeding each of you. You have such different dispositions and personalities, and I am amazed as I look into your sapphire eyes to see the beauty of God's handiwork. You are masterpieces, creations of the Almighty, and if I live to be a centenarian I will continue to marvel at His goodness in choosing to give me the precious blessing of being a grandmother.
King David was also very grateful to God--and while I wouldn't be bold enough to compare my appreciation to his, I do suspect there are similarities based on his expressed desires in 2 Samuel 7 and 1 Chronicles 17. These two chapters essentially provide the same details. They take place after David's palace of cedar was built in Jerusalem and explain that David's desire was to build a permanent home for the Ark of the Covenant.
Through the prophet Nathan, David was told that he wasn't the one who would build God's temple. Instead, one of his descendants would have that privilege. Still, David's desire was genuine enough that he gathered the materials for the future construction that we later learn was completed by Solomon, David's son.
David's heartfelt gratitude to The Lord was expressed in these chapters and in many of the Psalms. He wanted to build a temple because of his gratefulness to God for His grace and mercy.
In 2 Samuel 7:11, God explains to David through Nathan what he plans to do: “‘Furthermore, the Lord declares that he will make a house for you—a dynasty of kings!
The promise God made to David was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, and today, Jesus is building a magnificent temple for His Father. If that doesn't make sense, remember that scripture explains that all who come to The Lord through faith in His Son are God's temples...
1 Peter 2:5 And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God.
From a heart overflowing with gratitude, David wanted to build a temple for God. Today, He deserves nothing less from us.
There are innumerable blessings in my life (two of whom are sleeping peacefully as I write) and I am compelled to ask You, Father, to build a temple in my heart as I praise you for making all the wrong in me right through Jesus. You alone have made it possible for One so holy to dwell within one so unworthy. Make my heart your home and be pleased this night as I pour out my praise and thanksgiving to you for all you have done in my life.
King David was also very grateful to God--and while I wouldn't be bold enough to compare my appreciation to his, I do suspect there are similarities based on his expressed desires in 2 Samuel 7 and 1 Chronicles 17. These two chapters essentially provide the same details. They take place after David's palace of cedar was built in Jerusalem and explain that David's desire was to build a permanent home for the Ark of the Covenant.
Through the prophet Nathan, David was told that he wasn't the one who would build God's temple. Instead, one of his descendants would have that privilege. Still, David's desire was genuine enough that he gathered the materials for the future construction that we later learn was completed by Solomon, David's son.
David's heartfelt gratitude to The Lord was expressed in these chapters and in many of the Psalms. He wanted to build a temple because of his gratefulness to God for His grace and mercy.
In 2 Samuel 7:11, God explains to David through Nathan what he plans to do: “‘Furthermore, the Lord declares that he will make a house for you—a dynasty of kings!
The promise God made to David was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, and today, Jesus is building a magnificent temple for His Father. If that doesn't make sense, remember that scripture explains that all who come to The Lord through faith in His Son are God's temples...
1 Peter 2:5 And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God.
From a heart overflowing with gratitude, David wanted to build a temple for God. Today, He deserves nothing less from us.
There are innumerable blessings in my life (two of whom are sleeping peacefully as I write) and I am compelled to ask You, Father, to build a temple in my heart as I praise you for making all the wrong in me right through Jesus. You alone have made it possible for One so holy to dwell within one so unworthy. Make my heart your home and be pleased this night as I pour out my praise and thanksgiving to you for all you have done in my life.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Amazing Love!
Today, I was delighted to read a beautiful letter that told me how loved, cherished and adored I am. There is nothing more amazing than to have someone tell you that you are precious, important, and special--that their love for you is so deep, so sincere that they cannot imagine the world without you in it.
Being adored is the longing of a girl's heart. We dream as children that one day a handsome prince will come to rescue us from all that is wrong and save us from all that is harmful, and that he will love and care for us with fierce loyalty and devotion.
That, my precious ones, is exactly what God tells us in His Word--His love letter to us. He loves us! He adores us! He cherishes us! He saves us! And because of his immeasurable, unfathomable love, I delight in the words of the Psalms that continue today's journey through scripture.
Psalm 89,96,100,101, and 105 all encourage us to praise Him, to sing and shout with joy and tell of His love and greatness. Here are the first verses of each of these chapters:
89: 1 I will sing of the Lord’s unfailing love forever!
Young and old will hear of your faithfulness.
96: 1 Sing a new song to the Lord!
Let the whole earth sing to the Lord!
100: 1 Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth!
2 Worship the Lord with gladness.
101: 1 I will sing of your love and justice, Lord.
I will praise you with songs.
105: 1 Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness.
When I consider the depth of His love, it's simply impossible not to sing with joyful songs of worship and praise! Thank you Father for loving me, for saving me, for adoring me. I am amazed!
Being adored is the longing of a girl's heart. We dream as children that one day a handsome prince will come to rescue us from all that is wrong and save us from all that is harmful, and that he will love and care for us with fierce loyalty and devotion.
That, my precious ones, is exactly what God tells us in His Word--His love letter to us. He loves us! He adores us! He cherishes us! He saves us! And because of his immeasurable, unfathomable love, I delight in the words of the Psalms that continue today's journey through scripture.
Psalm 89,96,100,101, and 105 all encourage us to praise Him, to sing and shout with joy and tell of His love and greatness. Here are the first verses of each of these chapters:
89: 1 I will sing of the Lord’s unfailing love forever!
Young and old will hear of your faithfulness.
96: 1 Sing a new song to the Lord!
Let the whole earth sing to the Lord!
100: 1 Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth!
2 Worship the Lord with gladness.
101: 1 I will sing of your love and justice, Lord.
I will praise you with songs.
105: 1 Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness.
When I consider the depth of His love, it's simply impossible not to sing with joyful songs of worship and praise! Thank you Father for loving me, for saving me, for adoring me. I am amazed!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Paths and Parades...
I love a parade. I guess the last one I actually attended was a neighborhood 4th of July parade that has been a tradition for the community I grew up in since I was three or four years old. It's a pretty big deal because the mayor, local dignitaries, firefighters, police, riders on horseback, and other special people proceed through the local streets right along with the children from Coulwood who've decorated their bicycles, tricycles and four-wheelers.
One year, my beloved youngest sister rode a wagon float as Little Miss Lima Bean in said parade. I think she was four years old at the time and the title was well deserved because that's all she ate. Lima beans were the staple of her diet, breakfast, lunch and dinner. I actually witnessed her fall asleep at the dinner table on more than one occasion because she stubbornly refused to taste anything except her Lima's. Libby's (her Lima bean brand of choice) should have done commercials featuring the little lima lover, but sadly, they never learned about their fiercest fan.
Today's passage is a follow up to the lavish, extravagant parade that proceeded through the streets as the Ark of the Covenant of God was brought to Jerusalem. The details of the processional paint a picture of quite an event that I imagine made headlines throughout the land.
After the grand parade, these chapters from Psalms are highlighted in the reading plan: 1, 2, 15, 22, 24, 47, and 68.
Every word of these chapters warrants careful reading, but I cannot resist the urge to post the entire first Psalm, because if you read these words and take them to heart applying them to your life, you will be walking the path of the wise. And what better way to parade?
1 Oh, the joys of those who do not
follow the advice of the wicked,
or stand around with sinners,
or join in with mockers.
2 But they delight in the law of the Lord,
meditating on it day and night.
3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
and they prosper in all they do.
4 But not the wicked!
They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.
5 They will be condemned at the time of judgment.
Sinners will have no place among the godly.
6 For the Lord watches over the path of the godly,
but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.
Father, help me and those I love walk the path of the wise, the godly, the upright...and thank you for your promise of fruit for the lives of those who delight in you!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
A New Cart!
2 Samuel 5:11-6:23, and 1 Chronicles 13-16 are fascinating passages to read and are next in order of the historical chronology that take us through the events of scripture as they unfolded.
As I've mentioned before, God inspired all of the written Word, including the tough parts that can seem difficult for us to understand. For example, these verses record the incident that occurred when David instructed that the Ark of the Covenant be transported. The Bible explains that they loaded it onto a new cart. Apparently, to their detriment, they disregarded that the Ark was to be carried by a Levite (Exodus 25 and Numbers 4). They probably thought that God would be so pleased that they'd made this new mode of transportation that he would overlook their oversight.
Oh how similar I've been to these guys. In my quest to please God, to experience his presence, to honor him, I have devised a "better" way to serve him. Regrettably, I've succumbed to the notion that honoring God and invoking his presence must involve a new cart in the way of my bigger and better ideas that look and seem fancy and innovative.
I'm guessing that it's possible that David prayed for God to bless this big processional he orchestrated, but scripture says nothing of his having inquired of God about the process beforehand. As a result, David did a good thing the wrong way. I believe that I've been guilty of the same and my prayer today is that my hard learned lessons might prevent you from making similar blunders, and that you would recognize the futility of making plans without first consulting God's Word to see if there are directives or instructions that are specific to the course of action you feel led to pursue BEFORE you proceed.
What a blessing that I live in an era of grace through Jesus Christ. Fortunately, my sinful disregard for proper procedure has not resulted in death (as it did for Uzzah in this tragic story)--but that does not diminish the importance of always--ALWAYS--inquiring of The Lord before planning something for Him.
Thank you Father for forgiving all of the new carts I've crafted without your mandate. Your grace is more appreciated than I will ever adequately convey.
As I've mentioned before, God inspired all of the written Word, including the tough parts that can seem difficult for us to understand. For example, these verses record the incident that occurred when David instructed that the Ark of the Covenant be transported. The Bible explains that they loaded it onto a new cart. Apparently, to their detriment, they disregarded that the Ark was to be carried by a Levite (Exodus 25 and Numbers 4). They probably thought that God would be so pleased that they'd made this new mode of transportation that he would overlook their oversight.
Oh how similar I've been to these guys. In my quest to please God, to experience his presence, to honor him, I have devised a "better" way to serve him. Regrettably, I've succumbed to the notion that honoring God and invoking his presence must involve a new cart in the way of my bigger and better ideas that look and seem fancy and innovative.
I'm guessing that it's possible that David prayed for God to bless this big processional he orchestrated, but scripture says nothing of his having inquired of God about the process beforehand. As a result, David did a good thing the wrong way. I believe that I've been guilty of the same and my prayer today is that my hard learned lessons might prevent you from making similar blunders, and that you would recognize the futility of making plans without first consulting God's Word to see if there are directives or instructions that are specific to the course of action you feel led to pursue BEFORE you proceed.
What a blessing that I live in an era of grace through Jesus Christ. Fortunately, my sinful disregard for proper procedure has not resulted in death (as it did for Uzzah in this tragic story)--but that does not diminish the importance of always--ALWAYS--inquiring of The Lord before planning something for Him.
Thank you Father for forgiving all of the new carts I've crafted without your mandate. Your grace is more appreciated than I will ever adequately convey.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
In Harmony...
Harmony. The word itself is melodious, isn't it? It's not technically onomatopoeia, but it's close enough for me.
Today's verses are Psalm 133, 106 and 107. Psalm 133 is about the beauty of harmony, a word that is defined as a pleasing or congruent arrangement of parts; a tuneful sound; or, compatibility in action or opinion.
As the children of Israel ascended to Jerusalem, they sang this psalm:
1 How wonderful and pleasant it is
when brothers live together in harmony!
2 For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil
that was poured over Aaron’s head,
that ran down his beard
and onto the border of his robe.
3 Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon
that falls on the mountains of Zion.
And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing,
even life everlasting.
Tonight, we attended church and then joined friends and family afterward for dinner. As I looked around the table at our party of 17, I saw different people from different backgrounds all laughing, chatting, eating and celebrating life in beautiful harmony.
At one point, I disengaged from any conversation and listened to the sounds in the room. There was laughter, baby babble, toddler chatter, and separate conversations all around me, but the noise was melodic rather than chaotic because it was generated by people I love.
I hope that when God looks at us, the people he loves, he hears and see glorious, melodic harmony, and I pray that he is pleased. Just being in the harmonious presence of those precious people made my heart happy. Thank you Father for friends and family and harmony.
Today's verses are Psalm 133, 106 and 107. Psalm 133 is about the beauty of harmony, a word that is defined as a pleasing or congruent arrangement of parts; a tuneful sound; or, compatibility in action or opinion.
As the children of Israel ascended to Jerusalem, they sang this psalm:
1 How wonderful and pleasant it is
when brothers live together in harmony!
2 For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil
that was poured over Aaron’s head,
that ran down his beard
and onto the border of his robe.
3 Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon
that falls on the mountains of Zion.
And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing,
even life everlasting.
Tonight, we attended church and then joined friends and family afterward for dinner. As I looked around the table at our party of 17, I saw different people from different backgrounds all laughing, chatting, eating and celebrating life in beautiful harmony.
At one point, I disengaged from any conversation and listened to the sounds in the room. There was laughter, baby babble, toddler chatter, and separate conversations all around me, but the noise was melodic rather than chaotic because it was generated by people I love.
I hope that when God looks at us, the people he loves, he hears and see glorious, melodic harmony, and I pray that he is pleased. Just being in the harmonious presence of those precious people made my heart happy. Thank you Father for friends and family and harmony.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Fight'n Words...
Sometimes I get the urge to fight my own battles. I've learned though, that it is never, ever a good idea. King David understood the futility of trying to fight his own battles, too. Today's verses, 2 Samuel 5:1-10, and 1 Chronicles 11 and 12, reveal a little about his victory against the Jebusites. They were the original inhabitants of Jerusalem, and according to the Bible, they taunted David saying things like, "You'll never get in here! Even the blind and lame could keep you out!"
If I'm true to the stereotypes associated with my southern roots (and more specifically, my westside girl distinction) I'd be inclined to say something here like, "them's fight'n words!", and as grammatically incorrect as that would be, I'm guessing you might agree.
David did fight, but not on his own--scripture records that he captured Jerusalem, defeating those jeering Jebusites--and staking his claim on what came to be known as The City of David because "The Lord of Heaven's Armies" was with him.
Without The Lord of Heaven's Armies fighting for me, I am incapable of knowing how to appropriately confront my persecutors. But if God fights my battles for me, victory is assured. And I'll take God's guaranteed victory over possible defeat, any day!
Thank you Lord that you go before those who wait on you to lead and trust you enough to follow when you do. You are Almighty God, victorious in battle!
If I'm true to the stereotypes associated with my southern roots (and more specifically, my westside girl distinction) I'd be inclined to say something here like, "them's fight'n words!", and as grammatically incorrect as that would be, I'm guessing you might agree.
David did fight, but not on his own--scripture records that he captured Jerusalem, defeating those jeering Jebusites--and staking his claim on what came to be known as The City of David because "The Lord of Heaven's Armies" was with him.
Without The Lord of Heaven's Armies fighting for me, I am incapable of knowing how to appropriately confront my persecutors. But if God fights my battles for me, victory is assured. And I'll take God's guaranteed victory over possible defeat, any day!
Thank you Lord that you go before those who wait on you to lead and trust you enough to follow when you do. You are Almighty God, victorious in battle!
If you care...
Freedom. It is easily taken for granted when you have it, mourned when it is lost, and costly to acquire. I have been the recipient of the price paid for such a gift and I'm determined that I will not be one who apathetically takes it for granted.
If you are with me, please go here and listen to the April 17th program. You need to know that it is not easy listening but imperative for those who would hope to ensure that our children and grandchildren enjoy the same.
Only ignore this if you just don't care.
If you are with me, please go here and listen to the April 17th program. You need to know that it is not easy listening but imperative for those who would hope to ensure that our children and grandchildren enjoy the same.
Only ignore this if you just don't care.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Run to The Word...
Sometimes, things in this life simply do not make sense. Some of those things are big deals, some are little trifles, but when the "thing" that is not making sense matters to us, even the little issues can seem ginormous. Don't you love that word? Ginormous. It has actually been added to the dictionary, but for those unfamiliar with this wonderful descriptor, it means gigantically enormous.
Today, at least three things did not make sense to me. I will not list them at risk of offending someone or divulging classified information (okay, I'm kidding about that one) but doesn't every day cause you to pause and wonder about something?
At one time, I naively believed that most people were reasonable, rational, and responsible--but having learned that maybe that's a little too generous as a generalization, I've come to accept that it's just a fact of life that there will be at least one baffling circumstance or person to contend with every day.
For that reason (among so many others) I am in love with God's Word. I am so grateful that God didn't bar any holds with respect to its transparency and candor. Today, the passages are 1 Chronicles 9 and 10 and Psalm 102, 103, and 104. The Chronicles verses recall the deaths of Saul and his sons in vivid detail, reminding us that Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord. Then, the Psalms highlighted today focus attention on the plight of one who is overwhelmed with trouble and praises lifted by David.
If you are struggling to understand something that just doesn't make sense, run to The Word. It is a wellspring of hope and a healing balm for bewildered brains:
Psalm 103:
6 The Lord gives righteousness
and justice to all who are treated unfairly.
8 The Lord is compassionate and merciful,
slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
11 For his unfailing love toward those who fear him
is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.
12 He has removed our sins as far from us
as the east is from the west.
13 The Lord is like a father to his children,
tender and compassionate to those who fear him.
14 For he knows how weak we are;
he remembers we are only dust.
22 Praise the Lord, everything he has created,
everything in all his kingdom.
Let all that I am praise the Lord.
Today, at least three things did not make sense to me. I will not list them at risk of offending someone or divulging classified information (okay, I'm kidding about that one) but doesn't every day cause you to pause and wonder about something?
At one time, I naively believed that most people were reasonable, rational, and responsible--but having learned that maybe that's a little too generous as a generalization, I've come to accept that it's just a fact of life that there will be at least one baffling circumstance or person to contend with every day.
For that reason (among so many others) I am in love with God's Word. I am so grateful that God didn't bar any holds with respect to its transparency and candor. Today, the passages are 1 Chronicles 9 and 10 and Psalm 102, 103, and 104. The Chronicles verses recall the deaths of Saul and his sons in vivid detail, reminding us that Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord. Then, the Psalms highlighted today focus attention on the plight of one who is overwhelmed with trouble and praises lifted by David.
If you are struggling to understand something that just doesn't make sense, run to The Word. It is a wellspring of hope and a healing balm for bewildered brains:
Psalm 103:
6 The Lord gives righteousness
and justice to all who are treated unfairly.
8 The Lord is compassionate and merciful,
slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
11 For his unfailing love toward those who fear him
is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.
12 He has removed our sins as far from us
as the east is from the west.
13 The Lord is like a father to his children,
tender and compassionate to those who fear him.
14 For he knows how weak we are;
he remembers we are only dust.
22 Praise the Lord, everything he has created,
everything in all his kingdom.
Let all that I am praise the Lord.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Wonderful Words of Life
If it did not take so much research and detective-level investigation, I would love to trace my family's genealogy on both sides. I think it would be fascinating to know who first came to the United States and when, who married whom and where, and so on--and maybe someday I will do just that.
I'm told that my paternal grandmother, Minnie Billingsley, married my grandfather, Millard Horne, when she was just fourteen years old. She went on to have ten children who survived, my dad being her last. They lived in a small frame farmhouse in Anson County for most of their lives, and my memories of visiting there as a child include my introduction to Coca-Cola in small glass bottles (I wasn't to touch them, they were grandma's) and the smell of chicken coups, hound dogs and orange dusty dirt driveways and pathways that wound around their various out-buildings.
1 Chronicles chapters 7 and 8 conclude the genealogies of all Israel. It completely fascinates me that such careful records were preserved so long ago, yet my family line is only known (to me at least) about three generations back.
There are those who reject the authenticity and accuracy of scripture, yet day after day archaeological discoveries are uncovered that confirm its reliability.
I pray that you will heed every word of His Word because it will be your source for wisdom--a lamp for your feet and a light for your path. The Apostle Paul says it best in 2 Timothy 3:16:
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
Hide God's Word in your heart--so that in every circumstance you are equipped to choose wisely, walk safely, and speak truthfully. His Word never fails. His Words give life. Everlasting, abundant, amazing.
I'm told that my paternal grandmother, Minnie Billingsley, married my grandfather, Millard Horne, when she was just fourteen years old. She went on to have ten children who survived, my dad being her last. They lived in a small frame farmhouse in Anson County for most of their lives, and my memories of visiting there as a child include my introduction to Coca-Cola in small glass bottles (I wasn't to touch them, they were grandma's) and the smell of chicken coups, hound dogs and orange dusty dirt driveways and pathways that wound around their various out-buildings.
1 Chronicles chapters 7 and 8 conclude the genealogies of all Israel. It completely fascinates me that such careful records were preserved so long ago, yet my family line is only known (to me at least) about three generations back.
There are those who reject the authenticity and accuracy of scripture, yet day after day archaeological discoveries are uncovered that confirm its reliability.
I pray that you will heed every word of His Word because it will be your source for wisdom--a lamp for your feet and a light for your path. The Apostle Paul says it best in 2 Timothy 3:16:
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
Hide God's Word in your heart--so that in every circumstance you are equipped to choose wisely, walk safely, and speak truthfully. His Word never fails. His Words give life. Everlasting, abundant, amazing.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
This song's for You...
Psalms 81, 88, and 92-93 are the selected verses for today's reading. These four chapters contrast both spritual ecstasy and agony as the writers express the benefits of following God and the costs associated with straying from Him.
These poetic passages remind me that my worship is important and that I worship God because he is worthy of my adoration. Psalm 81 begins with the admonition to sing praises to God and to celebrate him with instruments. Tonight, I am thankful that he accepts my praise songs as confirmation of my desire to honor his "worth-ship".
In my imagination, I sing the words of chapter 93 as beautifully as a brilliant virtuoso, but in reality, I simply make a joyful noise--and thankfully, that is all he asks... so, this if for you, Lord:
1 The Lord is king! He is robed in majesty.
Indeed, the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength.
The world stands firm
and cannot be shaken.
2 Your throne, O Lord, has stood from time immemorial.
You yourself are from the everlasting past.
3 The floods have risen up, O Lord.
The floods have roared like thunder;
the floods have lifted their pounding waves.
4 But mightier than the violent raging of the seas,
mightier than the breakers on the shore—
the Lord above is mightier than these!
5 Your royal laws cannot be changed.
Your reign, O Lord, is holy forever and ever.
These poetic passages remind me that my worship is important and that I worship God because he is worthy of my adoration. Psalm 81 begins with the admonition to sing praises to God and to celebrate him with instruments. Tonight, I am thankful that he accepts my praise songs as confirmation of my desire to honor his "worth-ship".
In my imagination, I sing the words of chapter 93 as beautifully as a brilliant virtuoso, but in reality, I simply make a joyful noise--and thankfully, that is all he asks... so, this if for you, Lord:
1 The Lord is king! He is robed in majesty.
Indeed, the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength.
The world stands firm
and cannot be shaken.
2 Your throne, O Lord, has stood from time immemorial.
You yourself are from the everlasting past.
3 The floods have risen up, O Lord.
The floods have roared like thunder;
the floods have lifted their pounding waves.
4 But mightier than the violent raging of the seas,
mightier than the breakers on the shore—
the Lord above is mightier than these!
5 Your royal laws cannot be changed.
Your reign, O Lord, is holy forever and ever.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Joyful Noises and Precious Praise...
I love music. One of my earliest wonderful childhood memories involves sitting in the middle of our formal living room listening to our stereo. Your great grandfather wired concealed speakers into every piece of wooden furniture in the room, and there were actually some albums (prehistoric CD's) in his collection that seemed to jump from speaker to speaker as the music played.
In that same room we had a piano and matching organ. Yes. An organ. I wasn't particularly fond of organ music, but I played the piano for hours every day. In fact, the most difficult adjustment to being married and leaving my parent's house was that I had no piano. George felt so sorry for me that he bought me a baby grand in the second year of our marriage--and until I became a mother my daily piano time was a priority.
I attribute my appreciation for varied styles of music to my earthly father and will forever be grateful to him that the sound of melodies always filled my childhood home.
God loves music, too. I've always believed this, but today's chapter, 1 Chronicles chapter 6, confirms its importance as an element of praise when King David appointed men to oversee the service of songs that were used in the worship of God.
Since I am writing this to you, my grandchildren, I can be certain that music will be a big part of your lives. Both Leslie and David have married musicians who use their talents to serve in worship ministry, so I know you will each grow up hearing songs that celebrate the greatness of our God. I already know that the oldest of you (Ava Grace) loves music, and I am confident that the rest of you will follow in her footsteps as you hear your parent's beautiful voices and instruments.
The people who were set apart by King David were called to the ministry of music--a sacred service to the Lord that demanded dedication, focus, attention and hard work. If you inherit the talents of your musically gifted parent, you, too, may some day be called to the ministry of music and be privileged to serve God by using your talent for his glory.
If that happens, remember this--the calling is high and the responsibility is great. There is no room for egotism, arrogance or pride--the focus must be on bringing glory to God by exalting his name. That was the calling of the early music ministers and it remains the same today.
And never forget--whether you are called to some sort of music ministry or another type of service, one is not more important than another--whatever we do for God matters for eternity and is precious to Him. Like you are precious to me.
Father, thank you for the gift of music and for precious opportunities to praise you in song. May we all always make a joyful noise.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
I Love...
Psalm 73, 77 and 78 are the passages highlighted for today and I love that on this glorious Resurrection Sunday, these verses speak of the greatness of God and the confidence we have in a Lord who is unchanging.
This morning, we celebrated our Risen Savior at a service held at a local amphitheater. The thing about being outdoors as opposed to inside a building for me was that the morning's brisk breeze seemed to whisper reminders that Jesus lives--and breathes the fresh wind of his saving mercy onto all who believe.
I love that God confirms his victory over death through his Holy Word.
I love that the flowering foliage that decorates the springtime horizon paints a picture of the recreative, renewing work of our Master Designer.
I love that my Lord conquered death when he rose on the third day, paving the way for all who will call on Him to be saved.
With the Psalmist, I rejoice in these words from Psalm 77, and I love that so many years ago they were penned as a beautiful reminder to us for all time:
13 O God, your ways are holy.
Is there any god as mighty as you?
14 You are the God of great wonders!
You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations.
15 By your strong arm, you redeemed your people,
the descendants of Jacob and Joseph
We who have received the gift of Grace by faith in our Risen Lord have been redeemed by the blood of the God who is mighty--whose great wonders demonstrate his power among the nations! Praise You Lord for Eternal Life in Christ our Savior! I love you.
This morning, we celebrated our Risen Savior at a service held at a local amphitheater. The thing about being outdoors as opposed to inside a building for me was that the morning's brisk breeze seemed to whisper reminders that Jesus lives--and breathes the fresh wind of his saving mercy onto all who believe.
I love that God confirms his victory over death through his Holy Word.
I love that the flowering foliage that decorates the springtime horizon paints a picture of the recreative, renewing work of our Master Designer.
I love that my Lord conquered death when he rose on the third day, paving the way for all who will call on Him to be saved.
With the Psalmist, I rejoice in these words from Psalm 77, and I love that so many years ago they were penned as a beautiful reminder to us for all time:
13 O God, your ways are holy.
Is there any god as mighty as you?
14 You are the God of great wonders!
You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations.
15 By your strong arm, you redeemed your people,
the descendants of Jacob and Joseph
We who have received the gift of Grace by faith in our Risen Lord have been redeemed by the blood of the God who is mighty--whose great wonders demonstrate his power among the nations! Praise You Lord for Eternal Life in Christ our Savior! I love you.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Blessed Indeed!
Since my children were babies, one of my daily prayers for them and for myself is that God would keep us from evil and keep the evil one from us. Several years ago, a little book about this fairly obscure section of scripture became a huge success in the Christian publishing world. The sometimes controversial Prayer of Jabez was about a man whose prayerful plea interrupts the continuing genealogies of 1 Chronicles chapters 3 through 5.
In chapter 4, amidst the many other names listed in the passage, this fellow Jabez (whose name was given to him apparently because he caused his mother great pain during his birth) was singled out as one who was more honorable than his brothers.
The mention of this man says nothing of any great military accomplishments or extraordinary wisdom. There is no reference to his having been exceptionally talented in any unique way or of his possessing superior physical strength or stature. His renown comes by virtue of the fact that he was honorable--and apparently prayerful. So what did he pray for exactly?
First, he prayed for God's "blessing indeed". I looked up the definition for the word indeed and found that it means without any question; undeniably; and as a matter of fact.
Jabez went a step beyond just asking to be blessed, he asked to be undeniably, factually, without any doubt or question blessed--and therein lies a significant aspect of his prayer--he wasn't half-hearted in the asking, and he was quite specific.
Second, he asked that his territory would be enlarged. Bible commentator Matthew Poole says that when Jabez called on God to enlarge his territory, it was for the purpose of "driving out the wicked and cursed Canaanites". In other words, it is assumed that Jabez wasn't praying selfishly here. Essentially, he was asking God to do something for him that would further God's purpose on earth by paving the way for righteousness to expand and godlessness to diminish.
I think it's important to mention that the temptation to pray selfishly is one to be carefully avoided. If our heart's desire is anything less than making God's glory known (he must increase, we must decrease) then we need to check our motives.
Next, Jabez asked that God's hand would be with him.
And finally, he prayed for God to keep him from evil and pain, an interesting prayer request for someone whose name apparently referred to the causing of pain. According to some scholars, the translation here likely means that Jabez did not want to cause pain (or grief) to anyone.
Scripture records that God granted Jabez's requests. Could it be that close communion with Him (by way of relationship with Christ) and an understanding of His heart, promises, and purposes, would serve to improve the effectiveness of our prayers, too? As we ask for God's blessings indeed, our prayer's priority must always be that God is honored in all that we say and do.
Father, please be honored by my life and the lives of my loved ones so that as we ask you to bless us indeed, enlarge our territory for your kingdom's sake, keep us from evil and keep the evil one from us, and hear from heaven and grant our request, we can trust that you will answer our pleas. You alone are the giver of all good things and I praise you in Jesus' Name. Amen.
In chapter 4, amidst the many other names listed in the passage, this fellow Jabez (whose name was given to him apparently because he caused his mother great pain during his birth) was singled out as one who was more honorable than his brothers.
The mention of this man says nothing of any great military accomplishments or extraordinary wisdom. There is no reference to his having been exceptionally talented in any unique way or of his possessing superior physical strength or stature. His renown comes by virtue of the fact that he was honorable--and apparently prayerful. So what did he pray for exactly?
First, he prayed for God's "blessing indeed". I looked up the definition for the word indeed and found that it means without any question; undeniably; and as a matter of fact.
Jabez went a step beyond just asking to be blessed, he asked to be undeniably, factually, without any doubt or question blessed--and therein lies a significant aspect of his prayer--he wasn't half-hearted in the asking, and he was quite specific.
Second, he asked that his territory would be enlarged. Bible commentator Matthew Poole says that when Jabez called on God to enlarge his territory, it was for the purpose of "driving out the wicked and cursed Canaanites". In other words, it is assumed that Jabez wasn't praying selfishly here. Essentially, he was asking God to do something for him that would further God's purpose on earth by paving the way for righteousness to expand and godlessness to diminish.
I think it's important to mention that the temptation to pray selfishly is one to be carefully avoided. If our heart's desire is anything less than making God's glory known (he must increase, we must decrease) then we need to check our motives.
Next, Jabez asked that God's hand would be with him.
And finally, he prayed for God to keep him from evil and pain, an interesting prayer request for someone whose name apparently referred to the causing of pain. According to some scholars, the translation here likely means that Jabez did not want to cause pain (or grief) to anyone.
Scripture records that God granted Jabez's requests. Could it be that close communion with Him (by way of relationship with Christ) and an understanding of His heart, promises, and purposes, would serve to improve the effectiveness of our prayers, too? As we ask for God's blessings indeed, our prayer's priority must always be that God is honored in all that we say and do.
Father, please be honored by my life and the lives of my loved ones so that as we ask you to bless us indeed, enlarge our territory for your kingdom's sake, keep us from evil and keep the evil one from us, and hear from heaven and grant our request, we can trust that you will answer our pleas. You alone are the giver of all good things and I praise you in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Better is One Day!
I love that this chronological review of scripture takes us to unexpected places each day. The Psalms are today's destination and these particular chapters reveal an acute awareness that all of our striving is in vain unless God is leader and Lord.
Psalm 43-45, Psalm 49, Psalm 84-85, and Psalm 87, read like poetic pleas and prayers that clearly convey the desperate place we find ourselves if we travel life's roads without God.
As I prepare my heart to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ in two days, I write this entry on what is commonly called Good Friday--it is the commemoration of the day my innocent Savior was put to death for my sins and yours.
I've tried to imagine what it must have been like for Jesus as he willingly surrendered to the brutality of the cross. I read the verses that convey his anguish as he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, weeping for those who failed to recognize that their king would come so humbly, so lowly, and I am overwhelmed.
It has rained all day today--not just a slow drizzle, but a deluge that has included bursts of lightning and thunder. In my imagination, God is showering the earth with heavenly tears to remind me of the amazing grace that he poured out on this day so many years ago. And as the rain pounds out its rhythmic melody, I sing praise with the Psalmist that one day with Jesus is better than a thousand days elsewhere. Sunday is coming and my Savior lives!
Psalm 84:
10 A single day in your courts
is better than a thousand anywhere else!
I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God
than live the good life in the homes of the wicked.
11 For the Lord God is our sun and our shield.
He gives us grace and glory.
The Lord will withhold no good thing
from those who do what is right.
12 O Lord of Heaven’s Armies,
what joy for those who trust in you.
Psalm 43-45, Psalm 49, Psalm 84-85, and Psalm 87, read like poetic pleas and prayers that clearly convey the desperate place we find ourselves if we travel life's roads without God.
As I prepare my heart to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ in two days, I write this entry on what is commonly called Good Friday--it is the commemoration of the day my innocent Savior was put to death for my sins and yours.
I've tried to imagine what it must have been like for Jesus as he willingly surrendered to the brutality of the cross. I read the verses that convey his anguish as he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, weeping for those who failed to recognize that their king would come so humbly, so lowly, and I am overwhelmed.
Luke 19: 41 As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it 42 and said, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. 43 The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. 44 They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you."
It has rained all day today--not just a slow drizzle, but a deluge that has included bursts of lightning and thunder. In my imagination, God is showering the earth with heavenly tears to remind me of the amazing grace that he poured out on this day so many years ago. And as the rain pounds out its rhythmic melody, I sing praise with the Psalmist that one day with Jesus is better than a thousand days elsewhere. Sunday is coming and my Savior lives!
Psalm 84:
10 A single day in your courts
is better than a thousand anywhere else!
I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God
than live the good life in the homes of the wicked.
11 For the Lord God is our sun and our shield.
He gives us grace and glory.
The Lord will withhold no good thing
from those who do what is right.
12 O Lord of Heaven’s Armies,
what joy for those who trust in you.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Carpe' Diem!
Today, we jump to First Chronicles chapters 1 and 2--an Old Testament book that is likely to seem monotonous at first glance because it covers a historical genealogy of the children of Israel up to the date of the book's writing.
For the most part, we just read names of men and a few women who had children who had children and so on--but I'd be missing something important if I didn't point out that each one of the names listed in this passage represents a human being who either obeyed--or disobeyed-- God. These were men and women who either seized the day, answering God's call on their life, or they squandered their opportunity to play an amazing role in God's grand plan.
Someone wrote that reading through Chronicles is like walking through like a historical graveyard, and although that might seem undesirable, it serves to remind us that life is a breath, a gift, and an irretrievable opportunity to leave every one and every thing better than before we came into the picture.
The little dash mark between the year you were born and the year your life ends represents every single minute you're given. Scripture says that we are either for Him (The Lord) or against Him--and every person makes the choice individually--there are no 2nd generation Christians. My prayer is that all who come behind us or read our name in some future genealogy, will know without a doubt that we chose to seize each day by seeking first our King Jesus.
Matthew 6:33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
For the most part, we just read names of men and a few women who had children who had children and so on--but I'd be missing something important if I didn't point out that each one of the names listed in this passage represents a human being who either obeyed--or disobeyed-- God. These were men and women who either seized the day, answering God's call on their life, or they squandered their opportunity to play an amazing role in God's grand plan.
Someone wrote that reading through Chronicles is like walking through like a historical graveyard, and although that might seem undesirable, it serves to remind us that life is a breath, a gift, and an irretrievable opportunity to leave every one and every thing better than before we came into the picture.
The little dash mark between the year you were born and the year your life ends represents every single minute you're given. Scripture says that we are either for Him (The Lord) or against Him--and every person makes the choice individually--there are no 2nd generation Christians. My prayer is that all who come behind us or read our name in some future genealogy, will know without a doubt that we chose to seize each day by seeking first our King Jesus.
Matthew 6:33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Singing Psalms
2 Samuel chapters 3 and 4 begin with a reminder that things were still very difficult for David as a long war broke out between those who were loyal to David and those who were loyal to the deceased King Saul.
At this point, the chronological reading plan inserts the following psalms of David, revealing the heart of a man who, while enduring confusing trials, serious opposition, and war, was never in doubt about God's loving presence in his life. Psalm 121, Psalm 123-125, Psalm 128-130, Psalm 6, Psalm 8-10, Psalm 14, Psalm 16, Psalm 19, Psalm 21 are all worthy of a devotional read, but I want to highlight the eighth and ninth Psalms.
Here are just two of the beautiful reminders that David so eloquently recorded to help us remember exactly how great our God is.
Psalm 8
1 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2 You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them[e] with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Psalm 9
1 I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done.
2 I will be filled with joy because of you.
I will sing praises to your name, O Most High...
7 But the Lord reigns forever,
executing judgment from his throne.
8 He will judge the world with justice
and rule the nations with fairness.
9 The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed,
a refuge in times of trouble.
10 Those who know your name trust in you,
for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.
11 Sing praises to the Lord who reigns in Jerusalem.
Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds...
Father, your greatness and your goodness are affirmed by your love and mercy. Thank you for reminding us through your Word that we can always trust your perfect plan. You are Almighty Lord and I praise you. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
At this point, the chronological reading plan inserts the following psalms of David, revealing the heart of a man who, while enduring confusing trials, serious opposition, and war, was never in doubt about God's loving presence in his life. Psalm 121, Psalm 123-125, Psalm 128-130, Psalm 6, Psalm 8-10, Psalm 14, Psalm 16, Psalm 19, Psalm 21 are all worthy of a devotional read, but I want to highlight the eighth and ninth Psalms.
Here are just two of the beautiful reminders that David so eloquently recorded to help us remember exactly how great our God is.
Psalm 8
1 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2 You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them[e] with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Psalm 9
1 I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done.
2 I will be filled with joy because of you.
I will sing praises to your name, O Most High...
7 But the Lord reigns forever,
executing judgment from his throne.
8 He will judge the world with justice
and rule the nations with fairness.
9 The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed,
a refuge in times of trouble.
10 Those who know your name trust in you,
for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.
11 Sing praises to the Lord who reigns in Jerusalem.
Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds...
Father, your greatness and your goodness are affirmed by your love and mercy. Thank you for reminding us through your Word that we can always trust your perfect plan. You are Almighty Lord and I praise you. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Horn Blowers, Control Freaks and Reverse Order Bless Requests
I can recall on more than one occasion having said that I wish I could stick a post-it note on my refrigerator for God to leave responses to my questions. In today's passage, 2 Samuel chapters 2 and 3, we learn that after David had mourned Saul's death, he sought wisdom from The Lord. Specifically, he asked God if he should return to any of the cities of Judah. It appears that David wanted to have God's blessing on his plans instead of making plans and then asking God to bless his agenda.
But isn't that what we are prone to do sometimes? We have an idea, think it's a pretty good one, proceed, and then pray like mad that God will help, rescue, bail us out, or simply bless our efforts...it's sort of a reverse "bless request".
Scripture confirms that God was faithful to answer David's inquiry--and if we're truthful we know that a careful study of The Word will always provide answers for ours, too.
It's interesting to me that David made no attempt to seize the crown, but waited on God, seeking Him for his timing. Sometimes, unlike David, I just want to help God out--to hurry things along so that the outcome I desire is realized sooner than later. But God never fails to fulfill his promises, and his timing is never off. There is no amount of striving or manipulation that I can muster that will make things better than they would otherwise be if I just let go and allow God to be God.
Another very important lesson from David's example is this: It is always best to allow God to lift us up rather than doing it ourselves. In other words, if you have to toot your own horn, the notes will probably be flat.
God must have a daily laugh (or cry) as he watches us struggle to build our own little empires here on earth--and yet he continues to bear patiently with us as a mother watching over her ignorant children. What a blessing to know that he loves us even when we forget that we aren't Him!
Thank you Lord for forgiving my vain attempts to take control and for loving me when I have foolishly tooted my own horn. Help me allow you to do all the lifting up that is planned for my life, and please, don't let me hinder the progress. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
But isn't that what we are prone to do sometimes? We have an idea, think it's a pretty good one, proceed, and then pray like mad that God will help, rescue, bail us out, or simply bless our efforts...it's sort of a reverse "bless request".
Scripture confirms that God was faithful to answer David's inquiry--and if we're truthful we know that a careful study of The Word will always provide answers for ours, too.
It's interesting to me that David made no attempt to seize the crown, but waited on God, seeking Him for his timing. Sometimes, unlike David, I just want to help God out--to hurry things along so that the outcome I desire is realized sooner than later. But God never fails to fulfill his promises, and his timing is never off. There is no amount of striving or manipulation that I can muster that will make things better than they would otherwise be if I just let go and allow God to be God.
Another very important lesson from David's example is this: It is always best to allow God to lift us up rather than doing it ourselves. In other words, if you have to toot your own horn, the notes will probably be flat.
God must have a daily laugh (or cry) as he watches us struggle to build our own little empires here on earth--and yet he continues to bear patiently with us as a mother watching over her ignorant children. What a blessing to know that he loves us even when we forget that we aren't Him!
Thank you Lord for forgiving my vain attempts to take control and for loving me when I have foolishly tooted my own horn. Help me allow you to do all the lifting up that is planned for my life, and please, don't let me hinder the progress. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Mourning has broken...
Imagine genuinely mourning the death of someone who has treated you with spiteful, ungodly hatred. Hard to fathom? It is for me--and for that I am ashamed.
David mourned the death of Saul when news reached him that the king and his sons had died in battle. The young Amalekite who delivered what he assumed would be delightful news to David must have been shocked to encounter a man whose heart had been "transplanted" by the living God of Israel.
It is only possible to imagine such capacity for love and forgiveness if you've seen or experienced it. David's reaction to the news of Saul's death proves that hatred, bitterness and unwillingness to forgive are chosen, not imposed responses--and that is a convicting principle to consider.
2 Samuel chapter 1, along with several chapters from the Psalms (121, 123-125, 128-130) are the passages for today's chronological exploration of the Bible. It's impossible to delve into all of the amazing lessons contained within these verses, but I cannot skip the chance to highlight again that scripture mandates that we are to be loving forgivers who shun bitterness.
When my flesh cries for justice and my mind wanders into the foggy fields of unforgiveness, I will be wise to recall this lesson that served to elevate David from average guy to man after God's own heart. After all, isn't that what we really want to be?
Father, forgive me for being unforgiving. Release me from any bitter root that has taken up residence in my heart and help me love the way you love--the way David loved--supernaturally and completely. Thank you Lord. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
David mourned the death of Saul when news reached him that the king and his sons had died in battle. The young Amalekite who delivered what he assumed would be delightful news to David must have been shocked to encounter a man whose heart had been "transplanted" by the living God of Israel.
It is only possible to imagine such capacity for love and forgiveness if you've seen or experienced it. David's reaction to the news of Saul's death proves that hatred, bitterness and unwillingness to forgive are chosen, not imposed responses--and that is a convicting principle to consider.
2 Samuel chapter 1, along with several chapters from the Psalms (121, 123-125, 128-130) are the passages for today's chronological exploration of the Bible. It's impossible to delve into all of the amazing lessons contained within these verses, but I cannot skip the chance to highlight again that scripture mandates that we are to be loving forgivers who shun bitterness.
When my flesh cries for justice and my mind wanders into the foggy fields of unforgiveness, I will be wise to recall this lesson that served to elevate David from average guy to man after God's own heart. After all, isn't that what we really want to be?
Father, forgive me for being unforgiving. Release me from any bitter root that has taken up residence in my heart and help me love the way you love--the way David loved--supernaturally and completely. Thank you Lord. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
The Path to Pitiful...
Imagine being the best and most respected person in the United States. Think of how it would feel to know that you had a 100% approval rating and public support with almost no opposition. That is essentially how Saul's reign began in Israel. He was crowned king by God at the request of the people and there was no reason to expect that he'd enjoy anything less than enormous success.
Today's chapters, 1 Samuel 28 through 31 bring to a conclusion the story of Saul's reign in Israel--and contrary to what seemed likely, he did not finish well.
The lesson of Saul's life is that even someone who enjoys every conceivable advantage can fail to achieve their potential if they do not stay the course with God.
In chapter 28, God tells Saul that he and his sons will die the following day. It had been 20 years since Saul had heard the prophet Samuel's judgment against him as a result of his disobedience to God--and during those many years since, he had not taken any opportunity to demonstrate Godly sorrow or repentance. Even when he knew that he had less than 24 hours to live there is no indication that he used the remaining time to prepare his soul to meet his Maker.
Saul's heart was apparently so hardened by his sin that he had no desire to repent. What a sad reminder to us that delaying the chance to get right with God is dangerous. We should never assume there will be a future opportunity to plead for God's mercy--the path to pitiful is paved with many shoulda's.
Today is the day of salvation. Today is the time to repent--which simply means making a U-turn and going in the opposite of self-direction toward God-correction. What a blessing and how amazing the grace of a God who forgives the worst sins if only we are willing to admit our failure and turn to Him in surrender.
Thank you Father, that you are are slow to anger, patient beyond comprehension and forgiving and merciful to all who trust Jesus for salvation. Have mercy on me and please bring my little loves to the place of transforming grace as they seize the gift of repentance at the earliest possible time in their lives. In Jesus' Great Name! Amen.
Today's chapters, 1 Samuel 28 through 31 bring to a conclusion the story of Saul's reign in Israel--and contrary to what seemed likely, he did not finish well.
The lesson of Saul's life is that even someone who enjoys every conceivable advantage can fail to achieve their potential if they do not stay the course with God.
In chapter 28, God tells Saul that he and his sons will die the following day. It had been 20 years since Saul had heard the prophet Samuel's judgment against him as a result of his disobedience to God--and during those many years since, he had not taken any opportunity to demonstrate Godly sorrow or repentance. Even when he knew that he had less than 24 hours to live there is no indication that he used the remaining time to prepare his soul to meet his Maker.
Saul's heart was apparently so hardened by his sin that he had no desire to repent. What a sad reminder to us that delaying the chance to get right with God is dangerous. We should never assume there will be a future opportunity to plead for God's mercy--the path to pitiful is paved with many shoulda's.
Today is the day of salvation. Today is the time to repent--which simply means making a U-turn and going in the opposite of self-direction toward God-correction. What a blessing and how amazing the grace of a God who forgives the worst sins if only we are willing to admit our failure and turn to Him in surrender.
Thank you Father, that you are are slow to anger, patient beyond comprehension and forgiving and merciful to all who trust Jesus for salvation. Have mercy on me and please bring my little loves to the place of transforming grace as they seize the gift of repentance at the earliest possible time in their lives. In Jesus' Great Name! Amen.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Time to Pray...
Tonight, I am not posting my regular daily blog because I have been rocking, cradling and loving my precious Ava who is sick with a high fever. Her confidence in my ability to help her feel better is reminiscent of the depth of trust we are challenged to have in our Lord. Childlike faith is essential because if we are unable to suspend "adult disbelief," we can't completely appreciate God's greatness or trust him in all things. In essence, I believe that faith is a gift that God offers everyone, but forces on no one.
In Mark 10:15, Jesus says: "I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
I have been reminded of so many beautiful things since becoming a grandmother--and I cherish each of these precious reminders. For that reason, I'm writing today asking for prayer for Ava Grace's rapid return to good health, and for prayers for others who need to know God's comfort and love tonight.
Specifically, please pray for the family of a young mother and her 2 1/2 year old daughter who were the innocent victims of an unbelievably heinous and tragic car crash a few miles away tonight. This young mom pulled out of her neighborhood and into the path of two racing vehicles who were speeding excessively according to witnesses. As is often the case, those who caused the accident survived, but two innocent people, a mother and child, have lost their lives.
My heart is grieved for the unrealized promise that these two deaths represent. This mom was reportedly the choir director at her church. I did not know her, but I know there is a gaping hole in the lives of those she and her little angel have left behind--so I am asking that anyone who reads this post will lift their families in fervent prayer. The last names of the victims' families are Furr and Price.
For those who are struggling with how to reconcile faith in a loving and great God with such tragedy, I offer a wonderful article by John Piper here. It beautifully answers the "where is God" question that sometimes surfaces when senseless tragedies happen.
Father, I know that tonight you are exactly where you were when your own Son asked why you had forsaken him. Your Word promises that you are near to the broken hearted, the afflicted, the sick and the lost. Be near, o God, be near. Love the families who are suffering, and the sick who need your healing touch. I love and thank you in advance for tenderly comforting and healing these people:
The Furr and Price families
Tiffany
Ellie
Malcolm
B's Mom and B
my sweet Ava Grace
and all the others I love whose names you know and whose circumstances are such that they need to feel you super close and present. Thank you and Amen.
In Mark 10:15, Jesus says: "I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
I have been reminded of so many beautiful things since becoming a grandmother--and I cherish each of these precious reminders. For that reason, I'm writing today asking for prayer for Ava Grace's rapid return to good health, and for prayers for others who need to know God's comfort and love tonight.
Specifically, please pray for the family of a young mother and her 2 1/2 year old daughter who were the innocent victims of an unbelievably heinous and tragic car crash a few miles away tonight. This young mom pulled out of her neighborhood and into the path of two racing vehicles who were speeding excessively according to witnesses. As is often the case, those who caused the accident survived, but two innocent people, a mother and child, have lost their lives.
My heart is grieved for the unrealized promise that these two deaths represent. This mom was reportedly the choir director at her church. I did not know her, but I know there is a gaping hole in the lives of those she and her little angel have left behind--so I am asking that anyone who reads this post will lift their families in fervent prayer. The last names of the victims' families are Furr and Price.
For those who are struggling with how to reconcile faith in a loving and great God with such tragedy, I offer a wonderful article by John Piper here. It beautifully answers the "where is God" question that sometimes surfaces when senseless tragedies happen.
Father, I know that tonight you are exactly where you were when your own Son asked why you had forsaken him. Your Word promises that you are near to the broken hearted, the afflicted, the sick and the lost. Be near, o God, be near. Love the families who are suffering, and the sick who need your healing touch. I love and thank you in advance for tenderly comforting and healing these people:
The Furr and Price families
Tiffany
Ellie
Malcolm
B's Mom and B
my sweet Ava Grace
and all the others I love whose names you know and whose circumstances are such that they need to feel you super close and present. Thank you and Amen.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Precious Promises...
Sometimes, life is very hard. I just spoke to a friend who is also a minister--and today, he spent five hours at his church counseling someone who had decided to end his life. Apparently, the desperate individual was intelligent, articulate, and seemingly well-adjusted--yet he was so depressed by his circumstances that he no longer wanted to live.
Today's verses, Psalm 17, Psalm 35, Psalm 54, and Psalm 63, are all written by David at times in his life when he felt alone, afraid, desperate, and weary. I love the honesty of scripture and its reminders to us of God's faithful, compassionate willingness to hear and help when we cry out to him. All who feel hopeless can find purpose in God's promises because his hope is eternal and his help is immeasurable. Here are just a few beautiful examples of the hope and confidence that we have in The Lord:
Psalm 17
A prayer of David.
1 O Lord, hear my plea for justice.
Listen to my cry for help.
7 Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways.
By your mighty power you rescue
those who seek refuge from their enemies.
8 Guard me as you would guard your own eyes.
Hide me in the shadow of your wings.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psalm 35
A psalm of David.
10 With every bone in my body I will praise him:
“Lord, who can compare with you?
Who else rescues the helpless from the strong?
Who else protects the helpless and poor from those who rob them?”
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psalm 54
A psalm of David
1 Come with great power, O God, and rescue me!
Defend me with your might.
4 ...God is my helper.
The Lord keeps me alive!
6 I will sacrifice a voluntary offering to you;
I will praise your name, O Lord,
for it is good.
7 For you have rescued me from my troubles
and helped me to triumph over my enemies.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psalm 63
A psalm of David
1 O God, you are my God;
I earnestly search for you.
My soul thirsts for you;
my whole body longs for you
in this parched and weary land
where there is no water.
2 I have seen you in your sanctuary
and gazed upon your power and glory.
3 Your unfailing love is better than life itself;
how I praise you!
4 I will praise you as long as I live,
lifting up my hands to you in prayer.
5 You satisfy me more than the richest feast.
I will praise you with songs of joy.
6 I lie awake thinking of you,
meditating on you through the night.
7 Because you are my helper,
I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
8 I cling to you;
your strong right hand holds me securely.
What can be added to these precious, powerful promises? Nothing.
Except maybe this--With your servant David, I Praise you Lord! Amen.
Today's verses, Psalm 17, Psalm 35, Psalm 54, and Psalm 63, are all written by David at times in his life when he felt alone, afraid, desperate, and weary. I love the honesty of scripture and its reminders to us of God's faithful, compassionate willingness to hear and help when we cry out to him. All who feel hopeless can find purpose in God's promises because his hope is eternal and his help is immeasurable. Here are just a few beautiful examples of the hope and confidence that we have in The Lord:
Psalm 17
A prayer of David.
1 O Lord, hear my plea for justice.
Listen to my cry for help.
7 Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways.
By your mighty power you rescue
those who seek refuge from their enemies.
8 Guard me as you would guard your own eyes.
Hide me in the shadow of your wings.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psalm 35
A psalm of David.
10 With every bone in my body I will praise him:
“Lord, who can compare with you?
Who else rescues the helpless from the strong?
Who else protects the helpless and poor from those who rob them?”
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psalm 54
A psalm of David
1 Come with great power, O God, and rescue me!
Defend me with your might.
4 ...God is my helper.
The Lord keeps me alive!
6 I will sacrifice a voluntary offering to you;
I will praise your name, O Lord,
for it is good.
7 For you have rescued me from my troubles
and helped me to triumph over my enemies.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Psalm 63
A psalm of David
1 O God, you are my God;
I earnestly search for you.
My soul thirsts for you;
my whole body longs for you
in this parched and weary land
where there is no water.
2 I have seen you in your sanctuary
and gazed upon your power and glory.
3 Your unfailing love is better than life itself;
how I praise you!
4 I will praise you as long as I live,
lifting up my hands to you in prayer.
5 You satisfy me more than the richest feast.
I will praise you with songs of joy.
6 I lie awake thinking of you,
meditating on you through the night.
7 Because you are my helper,
I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
8 I cling to you;
your strong right hand holds me securely.
What can be added to these precious, powerful promises? Nothing.
Except maybe this--With your servant David, I Praise you Lord! Amen.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Sincerely His...
Insincerity. Some people seem to have built-in radar that can detect it, and others are easily duped by those who say one thing, but mean another.
I've been gullible on one or two occasions, thinking that someone who expressed their affinity, affection or good will to my face, meant what they'd spoken. Later, having discovered that their words behind my back were not so kind, I realized that they were actually insincere individuals.
Today's chapters are 1 Samuel 25 through 27. In these scriptures, Samuel has died and there is a great spiritual void in the land as a result of his passing. David is on the run from Saul who still plans to kill him, and we learn that David is as bewildered as a man can be.
It is during this time of great despair that David again has an opportunity to kill Saul, but just as before, he resists the temptation to end Saul's life. He does, however, seize Saul's spear and water jug.
Verses 17 through 21 of chapter 26 record what happened next:
Saul recognized David’s voice and called out, “Is that you, my son David?”
And David replied, “Yes, my lord the king. 18 Why are you chasing me? What have I done? What is my crime? 19 But now let my lord the king listen to his servant. If the Lord has stirred you up against me, then let him accept my offering. But if this is simply a human scheme, then may those involved be cursed by the Lord. For they have driven me from my home, so I can no longer live among the Lord’s people, and they have said, ‘Go, worship pagan gods.’ 20 Must I die on foreign soil, far from the presence of the Lord? Why has the king of Israel come out to search for a single flea? Why does he hunt me down like a partridge on the mountains?”
21 Then Saul confessed, “I have sinned. Come back home, my son, and I will no longer try to harm you, for you valued my life today. I have been a fool and very, very wrong.”
Sometimes, like Saul, we know what we SHOULD say--we are aware of the proper "spiritual response", but in truth, we are not completely sincere because we don't truly mean what we've spoken. So what are we to do when we KNOW that our own hearts are insincere? And how do we respond to the insincerity of others toward us?
Just as in every other spiritual matter of the heart, we need to go to God. He can and will change our hearts when we humbly acknowledge that we need his help. When we know that our heart doesn't match what's in our head, we need to pray to the One who performs supernatural heart transplants. By submitting to his spiritual scalpel and surrendering our will to his skill, we receive life-giving heart to head realignment.
When we are "wronged" as a result of being treated insincerely, we also must take it to God and ask that he prevent our hearts from becoming bitter, poisoned, suspicious, or angry. He can heal our wounded, mistreated, broken hearts if we allow him the opportunity.
There is no wound too deep or scar too wretched that our master healer cannot erase it. My prayer for myself and for you is that we mean what we say, and that what we say demonstrates our commitment to treat others with the measure of grace we've been so lavishly given by our sincere Savior.
Sincerely yours and sincerely His,
Your Nana
I've been gullible on one or two occasions, thinking that someone who expressed their affinity, affection or good will to my face, meant what they'd spoken. Later, having discovered that their words behind my back were not so kind, I realized that they were actually insincere individuals.
Today's chapters are 1 Samuel 25 through 27. In these scriptures, Samuel has died and there is a great spiritual void in the land as a result of his passing. David is on the run from Saul who still plans to kill him, and we learn that David is as bewildered as a man can be.
It is during this time of great despair that David again has an opportunity to kill Saul, but just as before, he resists the temptation to end Saul's life. He does, however, seize Saul's spear and water jug.
Verses 17 through 21 of chapter 26 record what happened next:
Saul recognized David’s voice and called out, “Is that you, my son David?”
And David replied, “Yes, my lord the king. 18 Why are you chasing me? What have I done? What is my crime? 19 But now let my lord the king listen to his servant. If the Lord has stirred you up against me, then let him accept my offering. But if this is simply a human scheme, then may those involved be cursed by the Lord. For they have driven me from my home, so I can no longer live among the Lord’s people, and they have said, ‘Go, worship pagan gods.’ 20 Must I die on foreign soil, far from the presence of the Lord? Why has the king of Israel come out to search for a single flea? Why does he hunt me down like a partridge on the mountains?”
21 Then Saul confessed, “I have sinned. Come back home, my son, and I will no longer try to harm you, for you valued my life today. I have been a fool and very, very wrong.”
Sometimes, like Saul, we know what we SHOULD say--we are aware of the proper "spiritual response", but in truth, we are not completely sincere because we don't truly mean what we've spoken. So what are we to do when we KNOW that our own hearts are insincere? And how do we respond to the insincerity of others toward us?
Just as in every other spiritual matter of the heart, we need to go to God. He can and will change our hearts when we humbly acknowledge that we need his help. When we know that our heart doesn't match what's in our head, we need to pray to the One who performs supernatural heart transplants. By submitting to his spiritual scalpel and surrendering our will to his skill, we receive life-giving heart to head realignment.
When we are "wronged" as a result of being treated insincerely, we also must take it to God and ask that he prevent our hearts from becoming bitter, poisoned, suspicious, or angry. He can heal our wounded, mistreated, broken hearts if we allow him the opportunity.
There is no wound too deep or scar too wretched that our master healer cannot erase it. My prayer for myself and for you is that we mean what we say, and that what we say demonstrates our commitment to treat others with the measure of grace we've been so lavishly given by our sincere Savior.
Sincerely yours and sincerely His,
Your Nana
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
First Responder...
Hounded. Attacked. Criticized. The target of envy, jealousy and wrath of another. David experienced all of these difficulties and had every conceivable reason to feel depressed, distressed and defeated as he was forced to hide in caves and chased like an alley cat by a pit bull.
We all experience similar times of trouble--just as I mentioned yesterday. What we do with those days of difficulty will make all the difference in the outcome of our circumstances. Rather than turning inward to a place of despair, David turned upward to the God he knew and loved, and we can learn from his example.
Psalm 56, Psalm 120, Psalm 140-142 are today's scripture passages. These verses reveal that with a heavy heart, David sought his solace from the saving God he knew as redeemer and rescuer. Here are a few highlights that remind us to take our troubles to The Lord.
Psalm 56:
1 O God, have mercy on me,
for people are hounding me.
My foes attack me all day long.
2 I am constantly hounded by those who slander me,
and many are boldly attacking me.
3 But when I am afraid,
I will put my trust in you.
8 You keep track of all my sorrows.[a]
You have collected all my tears in your bottle.
You have recorded each one in your book.
Psalm 140
1 O Lord, rescue me from evil people.
Protect me from those who are violent,
2 those who plot evil in their hearts
and stir up trouble all day long.
Psalm 141
3 Take control of what I say, O Lord,
and guard my lips.
4 Don’t let me drift toward evil
or take part in acts of wickedness.
Don’t let me share in the delicacies
of those who do wrong.
Psalm 142
1 I cry out to the Lord;
I plead for the Lord’s mercy.
2 I pour out my complaints before him
and tell him all my troubles.
3 When I am overwhelmed,
you alone know the way I should turn.
Wherever I go,
my enemies have set traps for me.
4 I look for someone to come and help me,
but no one gives me a passing thought!
No one will help me;
no one cares a bit what happens to me.
5 Then I pray to you, O Lord.
I say, “You are my place of refuge.
You are all I really want in life.
6 Hear my cry,
for I am very low.
And He does--whether we are at our lowest low or our highest high, He hears and He cares. God is never our last resort, He is our first responder.
We all experience similar times of trouble--just as I mentioned yesterday. What we do with those days of difficulty will make all the difference in the outcome of our circumstances. Rather than turning inward to a place of despair, David turned upward to the God he knew and loved, and we can learn from his example.
Psalm 56, Psalm 120, Psalm 140-142 are today's scripture passages. These verses reveal that with a heavy heart, David sought his solace from the saving God he knew as redeemer and rescuer. Here are a few highlights that remind us to take our troubles to The Lord.
Psalm 56:
1 O God, have mercy on me,
for people are hounding me.
My foes attack me all day long.
2 I am constantly hounded by those who slander me,
and many are boldly attacking me.
3 But when I am afraid,
I will put my trust in you.
8 You keep track of all my sorrows.[a]
You have collected all my tears in your bottle.
You have recorded each one in your book.
Psalm 140
1 O Lord, rescue me from evil people.
Protect me from those who are violent,
2 those who plot evil in their hearts
and stir up trouble all day long.
Psalm 141
3 Take control of what I say, O Lord,
and guard my lips.
4 Don’t let me drift toward evil
or take part in acts of wickedness.
Don’t let me share in the delicacies
of those who do wrong.
Psalm 142
1 I cry out to the Lord;
I plead for the Lord’s mercy.
2 I pour out my complaints before him
and tell him all my troubles.
3 When I am overwhelmed,
you alone know the way I should turn.
Wherever I go,
my enemies have set traps for me.
4 I look for someone to come and help me,
but no one gives me a passing thought!
No one will help me;
no one cares a bit what happens to me.
5 Then I pray to you, O Lord.
I say, “You are my place of refuge.
You are all I really want in life.
6 Hear my cry,
for I am very low.
And He does--whether we are at our lowest low or our highest high, He hears and He cares. God is never our last resort, He is our first responder.
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