An Important Message

Have you ever spent two days studying one Psalm? No? It’s rare for me, too, but Psalm 106 drew me in this week. It’s one more repeat of an important message: Give thanks to God for He is good (v. 1).

This is one of the longer Psalms, and I noted three messages: (1) Sins, (2) prayers of repentance, and (3) a God who hears and answers.

Stories of people before us are one way we learn. The people admitted, “We have sinned like our fathers, done wrong and acted wickedly” (v. 6).

What kinds of wrong things did they do? For one thing, they failed to remember God’s wondrous works during the Exodus. Also, they ignored the Ten Commandments, choosing to worship idols and follow pagan customs (v. 7, 9, 19, 34-35, Exodus 20:1-6).

It's also noted that they shed the innocent blood of their children in sacrifice to idols (v. 37-38). Can we condemn them for that? It seems perhaps we sacrifice innocent children in the womb. To what? Our self-will? The god of sex? Let’s not be like the Pharisees, casting others’ sins before the Lord and ignoring our own (John 8:1-11).

Also noted is rebellion against the Spirit of God, grumbling, and choosing not to believe His promises (v. 24-25, 33, 43).

They did not get a free pass, and neither do we. Sin is a choice, and always has consequences (Hosea 10:12-13). But there is hope!

Repentance is also a choice, and prayers get God’s attention. In fact, God noted two intercessors, people who prayed to God on behalf of others. One was Moses, the other Phinehas (v. 23, 30-31). Are you praying to God on behalf of anyone? Don’t give up!

Rebellion and sin caused God’s anger, but He heard their prayers of distress and requests for deliverance (v. 40-48).

Don’t skip this important message: Give thanks to God for His goodness! Do you ever recall how He has helped you? Your family? Your church? Your country?

Our God is worthy of thanks: His love endures, He hears our cries for help, and provides with compassionate care (v. 1, 12, 44, 46).

Amen!

Pixabay: Important, Polaroid, Imprint; geralt.

  

Widen Your Focus

 

Our earthly home is no “hit or miss” operation. I, for one, am thankful God had a plan. His first act was to separate “light” from “darkness” to create “day” and “night” (Genesis 1:1-5).

Next, He created a vault called “sky” to separate the waters above and below it (Gen. 1:6-8). He gathered the water under the sky to create “seas,” and dry ground became “land” (Gen. 1:9-10).

He had the land bring forth vegetation, seed-bearing plants, and trees. From then on, they would reproduce themselves (Gen. 1:11-13). How’s that for good planning?

We are told He added lights to the sky: (1) to separate day from night, (2) to serve as markers for various times, and (3) to give light to the earth. The greater light (sun) ruled the day, and the lesser light (moon) ruled the night, plus He gave us beautiful stars to enjoy (Gen. 1:14-19).

Living creatures were then created to fill the seas, and winged birds were to fly over and live on the earth (Gen. 1:20-23). However, the land was also filled with livestock, wild animals, and creeping ground creatures (Gen. 1:24-25).

God continually reviewed His work and declared it “Good” (Genesis 1:1-25), but the best was yet to come.

He created mankind in His own likeness. They were to rule over all of His Creation. And all living things, including mankind, were created male and female to reproduce themselves. At this point, God looked at His Creative work and declared it “Very Good” (Gen. 1:26-31). Then He rested from all His work on the seventh day and declared it “holy” (Gen. 2:1-3).

As I was driving to a memorial today, I looked around me at the beauty of God’s creation. The sky was dark with rain clouds far off, but I was driving in sunshine. Next to the road, I saw people hiking the nature preserve trail. The difference today was a girl on horseback.

I started to think about animals and how they respond to us. My family enjoyed a part-Persian cat named "Bootsie," and we enjoyed our friends’ Shitzhu named “Sasha.” We used to joke that our pets had us trained as much as we had trained them.

Driving along, praising God for His Creation, is nothing new for me. I agree with the Psalmist David: I will extol the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips (Psalm 34:1).

The next time you’re out and about, widen your focus. Notice the great variety of colors and shapes around you. Who knows, you might get so happy you even break out in song (James 5:13).

Pixabay: Earth, Planet, Atmosphere image; AlexAntropov86. 

Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc., Used by Permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com.

6 Ways To Be Blessed

Some people think that being blessed means being happy, but it’s more than that. To be blessed is to be part of God’s Kingdom. He loves to see believers acting on, or obeying, His word. God is aware of what we do, and we reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7-10).

Desiring to please God, we bring glory to His name by doing right. The first step is to fear Him. That means to respect and revere His authority.

Psalm 112 lists some ways we can be blessed:

1.  Delight in God's Commands (v.1)
2.  Be gracious and compassionate (v.4)
3.   Be generous and lend freely (v.5)
4.  Conduct your affairs justly (v.5)
5.  Be steadfast, trusting in the LORD (v.7)
6.  Give to the poor (v.9)

 In contrast, here are some worldly viewpoints that lack respect for God’s authority:

• My truth is more important than God’s
• I see no reason to be compassionate
• I’ll make a personal loan, but charge a hefty fee
• It's not important to judge impartially
• There’s no need to trust in God; I can make my own way
• I give to the poor when I feel like it, Christmas for sure

As Christians, it’s a constant choice between MY will and THY will. Jesus set the example for us, even at an early age (Luke 2:41-52). Later, He overcame Satan’s temptations (Luke 4:1-13). Later still, He agonized in prayer over the Father’s will in the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:39-46).

While suffering on the cross, He was obedient to the end and declared, “It is finished!” (John 19:28-30). Then God tore the veil before the Holy of Holies in the temple from top to bottom (Luke 23:44-46; Mark 15:37-39). Jesus’ sacrifice was now the only acceptable way to be cleansed from sin.

It’s not always easy to do the right thing, but in addition to His example of prayer and knowing the Scripture, Jesus gave us two directives. We are to: (1) Take up our cross daily and follow Him (Luke 9:23), and (2) Show our love to Him by obedience to His commands (John 14:15).

Be blessed!

Pixabay: Rock, Sunrise, Morning Image; TomMarc

  

The Choice is Yours

Have you ever thanked God for the ability to think and make choices? Many daily choices seem routine. But there was a time we had thought about them and made a choice.

From the beginning, God gave humans a choice, and from Genesis to Revelation, His will is made clear. However, the choice is ours: (1) Will we believe His word, and (2) will we obey His word?  

Psalm Chapter One is a favorite. Six powerful little verses contrast the righteous with the wicked. People in our day tend to downplay the meaning of wicked, but God’s word is eternal.

What do the righteous DO? They delight in the law of the Lord and choose to keep it in mind day and night. The Psalm calls this meditation.

What do the righteous NOT DO? By focusing on God’s word, they don’t: (1) walk in wicked or ungodly counsel, (2) follow the way of sinners, nor (3) sit with mockers.

In our modern day, we need to apply this to our entertainment and social media choices. But mockery doesn’t have to be outright ridicule of God. We can also mock by simply brushing Him off with our choices and actions as if He doesn’t matter.

How’s this for contrast? Psalm One says the righteous are blessed, but not so the wicked. The righteous are rooted and bear fruit, but the wicked are blown away like chaff (Psalm 1: 1-3, 4-5).  

Have you heard of the broad way and the narrow way? Jesus said there’s a broad way that leads to destruction. It’s full of people who want big and easy.

On the other hand, there’s a narrow gate and a narrow way that leads to life, but compared to the broad way, only a few find it (Matthew 7:13-14).

There’s an old joke that says, ‘When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” But the reality is that choices matter.

The choice is yours. God’s way or your way? The broad way or the narrow way?

It takes more effort to stay on a narrow path, but with eternal values in view, it’s worth the effort!

Pixabay: Decision, Choice, Path; Waldryana.

  

Hope and Perseverance

I enjoy being part of a non-denominational Bible study. Last week’s lesson included the challenge of waiting on God.

A lady in my group said, “God is not a short-order cook!” I liked that. I said, “We go to the restaurant, place our order, and wait for our food. Why do we think God should answer our prayers at the snap of a finger?”

The psalmist had mentioned hard times before, but this time he says he’s worn out waiting for God to rescue him (Psalm 119:81). Have you ever felt that way? I have, but I also have learned that God does answer prayer in His own good time, and it’s worth waiting for (Ecclesiastes 3:11).                                                       

The psalmist was a realist who chose to focus on God, not his circumstances. He said, “I’ve almost been wiped from the earth, but I haven’t forsaken your precepts (v. 87). How well do we know God’s word? How committed are we to waiting on the Lord to fulfill His promises?

Like the psalmist, we should refuse to give up or give in. He believed God loved him and could revive him (v. 88). Because he had faith in God and His word, he was willing to stake his life on it, though it required waiting. (Read: Psalm 119:81-88).

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial. Because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him (James 1:12).

Under constant threats of death, Charlie Kirk persevered in his public testimony. His murder in broad daylight in front of thousands of witnesses was not the end. His death caused people worldwide to rally around his message of faith and freedom.

Charlie is an example of missionary C. T. Studd’s famous quote: “Only one life, ‘twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.”

Now the challenge is ours. How are we responding to it?

Pixabay: Adult, Alone, Bible; Pexels.

 

Praise in Retrospect

Memories are a powerful force in our lives. Good memories lift us but some are not so enjoyable. We are advised not to let our thoughts run wild. We are encouraged to choose our thoughts and make them good ones. (2 Corinthians 10:5; Philippians 4:8).

Praise is an important part of worship, and that includes praise for His answers to past prayers. In Nehemiah 9, the people stood humbly before God while Ezra blessed God and gave praise for things He had previously done for them. 

To this day I give God praise for His mighty acts in my life. Let me share briefly in retrospect: God delivered me from breast cancer in 2007 after nearly a full year of treatments. He answered my prayers for a Christian husband in my last year of college. In forty years of ministry, He helped me accomplish each item He laid on my heart. I also praise Him for faithful church workers and volunteers who helped me fulfill His will.

Even as I write these things I am lifted and encouraged. Scripture says Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow, and that God’s word stands eternally firm in heaven (Hebrews 13:8; Psalm 119:89). What a hope we have in Almighty God.

Did you know you have a God-given assignment to share with the next generation? (Exodus 3:13-15; Psalm 145:4). God makes it clear His mighty care is for every generation (Psalm 100:5, 102:18, 145:4-6).

When reading your Bible, don’t you find encouragement in the praises given for God's marvelous works, in both the Old and New Testaments?

Praise in retrospect is important. Some people like to share family legacy stories and oral histories. Other people share through art, music, writing, movies, or wireless communications.

How would you like to pursue this? The options are as endless as your creativity and your desire to praise God.

Pixabay Illustration: Writer, Thinking; Mohamed_Hassan. 

  

You Can Never Go Wrong With This

From childhood, we are trained to do something that is not only good for others but good for us. It's the simple act of saying, "Thank you."

*Robert Emmons, a psychology professor at the University of California, Davis, conducted extensive research on the practice of gratitude. He shares two key components: 1) It’s a way of affirming the good and/or positive things you have received or that are around you, and 2) It’s a way of recognizing that others have played a role in providing goodness in your life. It builds relationships and reduces isolation.

Everyone likes to hear words of appreciation . . . even God!

Are you familiar with Psalm 100? It speaks of joy and gladness, getting us off to a good start. But it also tells us how to enter into God’s presence, and why.

Psalm 100:4-5 (BSB)

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving

And into His courts with praise;

Give thanks to Him and bless His name.

For the LORD is good

And His loving devotion endures forever;

His faithfulness continues to all generations.

It’s been a long time since I read **Corrie ten Boom’s book Tramp for the Lord, but I’m thinking when she and her sister were in a concentration camp in Germany, their bunks were filled with fleas or bedbugs. As irritating as they were, her sister reminded her to be thankful it was those little creatures that made the guards less inclined to come in.

Thankfulness for little things counts just as much as being thankful for big things.

Every day is a day to give thanks. It ranks right up there with Paul’s admonition to be loving, compassionate, patient, and forgiving. But here’s the challenge . . . he says to “clothe yourself” in these character traits (Colossians 3:12-15).

There’s nothing automatic about choosing what to wear or even how to live our lives. That’s why I consider the ability to make personal choices one more thing for which I’m thankful.

Remember . . . you can never go wrong with an attitude of gratitude.

*Be Grateful, Be Sincere, and, Above All, Be Human, by Jason Kiger, STAR News, November 2024, Peer Support Program, page 13 (Column 2, Paragraphs 2, 3, 4).

**Tramp for the Lord, by Corrie ten Boom and Jamie Buckingham; Jove Books, Copyright 1978; paperback, I saw a used copy available on Amazon.

Pixabay Illustration: Note, Thumbtack Reminder; Clker-Free-Vector-Im...

How to Live in Wisdom and Truth

We’re convinced these days that exercise is a good thing. *Dr. Kenneth Cooper of Dallas, Texas, wrote a book in 1968 called Aerobics. It’s been expanded and printed in many languages since then.  

His core belief is that exercise develops the body’s ability to use large amounts of oxygen, good for the brain and overall health. He is now age 93, in good health, and very sharp cognitively.

I gained wisdom through what I heard, but it won’t do me any good if I don’t put it into action. That’s the way with all learning. Psalm 119:97-104 (BSB) talks about what happens when we take God’s word to heart.

The psalmist makes three claims:  1) It makes me wiser than my enemies, 2) gives me more insight than my teachers, and 3) helps me discern even more than my elders (V. 98-100). The Amplified Bible explains this is possible if the people he has mentioned have not observed God's precepts. 

He further explains, "By understanding your precepts, I avoid evil paths (and false ways)" (V. 104). Question: Who do you allow to speak into your life? The Bible says hypocrites turn away from the truth; therefore, we must choose teachers and elders who are careful to walk in the truth of God’s word (1 Timothy 4:1-2; 2 Timothy 1:13-14).

The psalmist loved God’s word. He meditated on it and tried not to depart from it (V 103). He considered it as sweet as honey, which is an old way of saying something is greatly desired and much appreciated (V. 103).

Are no teachers or elders available? Don’t worry. God’s Word will still cleanse our way and help us walk rightly before Him. We can also ask the Holy Spirit to guide us into truth (Psalm 51:10-12; Psalm 119:9-16; John 14:26).   

Moses said God’s words were not idle or non-active but life-giving if actively obeyed (Deuteronomy 32:45-47). God’s word is eternal, settled in heaven, and faithful to all generations (Psalm 119:89-90).  

So, let’s get with God’s program: Read, consider, and obey His words . . . enjoy the good life . . . living in wisdom and truth.  

*Although I heard Dr. Cooper interviewed by Matt and Laurie Crouch on a TBN PRAISE program, it was mentioned you can hear an interview with him on the CNN website, “Cooper Exercise Interview.”

Pixabay: 

How to Avoid Deception

I don’t know anyone who enjoys being deceived by someone. Do you? It’s always hurtful and sometimes dangerous.

Psalm 119:25-32 opens with four prayer requests. The last one is that God would keep the psalmist from lying to himself (Psalms 119:26, 27, 29, NLT). I wonder how many people have ever prayed that prayer?

Self-deception can be subtle. For example, there are people proud of the fact that they know the Bible, but it never makes a difference by moving from their head to their heart. Others like to self-interpret scripture to their advantage or viewpoint, despite two things: God’s word was written under the direction of the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Spirit was sent into this world to lead us into God’s truth (2 Peter 1:20-21; John 16:13)

God cares about self-deception. Jeremiah said the heart is deceitful and wicked (Jeremiah 17:9-10), but there is hope. Our old nature is corrupted by deception, but accepting Jesus as Savior gives us a new nature, desiring to be righteous and holy (Ephesians 4:20-24).

Obedience is a matter of our will. In response to answered prayers for help in understanding God’s word, the psalmist determines to obey:  1) I will meditate on your deeds, 2) I have chosen to be faithful, 3) I have determined to live by your regulations, 4) I cling to your laws, and 5) I will pursue your commands (V. 27, 30, 31, 32).

The problem of self-deception can be avoided. If we want wisdom and understanding, all we have to do is ask, obey, and be blessed (James 1:5, 22-25).

Pixabay: Choice, select, selection; geralt.

 

  

3 Powerful Points

Did you know the shortest chapter in the Bible only has two verses? When I was growing up, I used to enjoy *“Sword Drills” in Sunday School. It was one way to motivate us to learn the books of the Bible. Psalms was easy to remember because it was a big book right in the middle.

Though it’s extremely short, Psalm 117 carries a powerful message. We are reminded of God’s love and faithfulness, along with two qualifiers.

God’s love is not only unfailing, but it is powerful. And the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever. It shows up every morning as new mercies. No re-runs, no leftovers, and no scraping the bottom of the barrel. Just a consistent supply of mercy for each day, like the daily manna sent to the children of Israel on their Exodus from Egypt (Lamentations 3:22-23; Exodus 16:4-5).  

The third point is this: God’s love and faithfulness are to all nations and all the people of the earth (v. 1).

The Apostle Paul emphasized this in Romans by quoting from Deuteronomy, Psalms, and Isaiah to prove His point of Christ coming for both Jews and Gentiles (Romans 15:7-12). But the angelic message to the shepherds on the night of Jesus’ birth, and the gospel message in John also made it very clear that a Savior had been born to all people (Luke 2:8-11); John 3:16; Psalm 117:1).

So, the next time you can’t think of anything for which to give God praise, consider these three praise-worthy things: 1) God is for ALL people, 2) His love is unfailing and powerful, and 3) His faithfulness endures forever.

Psalm 119:89-90 brings it home this way: Your word, O LORD, is everlasting; it is firmly fixed in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations; You established the earth and it endures.

If that’s not enough, consider the words of Asaph, one of King David’s temple musicians: My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever (Psalm 73:26).

Let us also rejoice in our forever God!

*In Sword Drills, the teacher called the name of a book in the Bible, and the first person to find Chapter One got a point. The name was based on Ephesians 6:10-17 which lists the spiritual armor of God, including “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

Pixabay:  

A Matter of Importance: Part 2

Let’s have another look at the importance of integrity. It matters to people and it matters to God. Of course, His is the deeper all-inclusive view.

When Samuel the Prophet was called upon to anoint a king, he was impressed by a tall handsome fellow. But God said, “Don’t consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” (I Samuel 16:7, BSB).

This is a good concept for all relationships. Look beyond beauty, wealth, or thinking what’s in it for me? Watch for important signs of inner beauty and integrity.

Does God still look into our hearts? I Samuel 15:29 says God does not lie or change His mind. If you care about living a good life and pleasing God, you will read His word, and hide it in your heart for guidance. (Psalm 119:11).

David said, “I know, my God, that You test the heart and delight in uprightness” (I Chronicles 29:17). Isaiah had good reason to share God’s strong warning of “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil . . .” (Isaiah 5:20).

We are advised to turn from evil and do good (Psalm 37:27-28). God is long-suffering to people of both good and evil, however, there will be a day of accountability. Each of us will be rewarded according to our works (Revelation 22:11-15).

What is your most important work? To believe in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation from your sins, and to have your name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life (John 3:16, and Revelation 20:11-15).

If we ask God to forgive our sins, He will. But then we are to walk in integrity before Him, trying to please Him in every way (Colossians 1:10-12).

Remember, God judges from the inside out. Integrity does have eternal consequences.

Pixabay: Question mark, question; Peggy_Marco.

A Matter of Importance: Part 1

Have you ever considered what kind of relationships give you peace? I had a fifty-two-year relationship that worked well for me. I credit that to a husband who lived his life with personal integrity. But we also bring peace to ourselves. 

It’s been a long time since I read *Psalm 101, NLT. It's a no-nonsense declaration of David’s desire to live a life of integrity. Bible scholars say he wrote this early in his reign as king. Approximately eleven times he says “I will” do this or that.  

Integrity means living by personal moral and ethical principles. It means doing the right thing even when no one is looking. It means being honest and consistent, in contrast to being dishonest and shifty.

Some examples of integrity are respect, honesty, and responsibility . . . patience, hard work, and accountability. When I think of integrity I also think of self-control because integrity doesn’t just happen. We live with integrity on purpose and by choice.

Integrity has been important to all generations. It should start in the home. (v.2-3). Do we think only we moderns are tempted to watch vile and vulgar things? 

I know this was written long before a culture bombarded by temptations like pornography, or heavy sexual content in movies, DVDs, or television, but even ancient Job made a similar covenant with his eyes (Job 31:1). Men and women both need to wisely withstand visual temptations.

David’s further choices for integrity included: 1) rejecting perverse and evil ideas, 2) avoiding crooked people, including those who slander others, 3) rejecting the proud, 4) choosing companions who live above reproach, and 5) not allowing liars or deceivers to serve him in any way (V. 3-7).

The kinds of cities we live in reflect the kinds of people we are. A majority of people living by integrity can greatly influence a community for good.

**Proverbs 14:34, NIV says, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”

Do you live with integrity even when no one is looking? In your home? Your business? Your school? Your church? Don’t kid yourself. Integrity matters.

*Scripture notations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by Permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

**Scripture notations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain Reference Bible New International Version, copyright 1983 by the B.B. Kirkbride Bible Company, Inc., and the Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.  

 Pixabay: Question, Decision; TheDigitalArtist.

Angels Available

There are various beliefs and teachings about angels. I attended a memorial today where a cousin of the man who died shared an angel testimony. It seems his cousin was being taken to the hospital in an ambulance when the EMT said, “Hurry, we’re losing him.” The man lived, and later he said, “I heard the EMT, opened my eyes, and saw two angels sitting beside me.”

Angels are mentioned in the psalm I studied today, too. Only sixteen verses long, this psalm first impacted me when an older member of the church where we pastored stood up and said, “I’d like to share my insurance policy.” He then quoted Psalm 91. I was highly impressed.

Faith in God is good, but it must be activated to be effective. We do that when we pray, asking God to deliver us from evil and the evil one. This can include traps of various kinds, diseases, and disasters (*Psalm 91:3-4, NLT).

Psalm 91 can be divided into five sections:

1.       Have faith in God (V. 1-2)

2.       He will help you (V. 3-4)

3.       Do not fear (V. 5-8)

4.       Angels are available (v. 9-13)

5.       The Lord helps those who trust in Him (V. 14-16)

We can make the Lord our refuge when we know His promises. We can call upon Him to help us as we stand upon (believe in) His word (Psalm 91:14-15; 4). The question then is, “How well do you know God’s word?” If you take time to read it for yourself each day, you will learn His faithful promises. This psalm says they can function as your armor and protection (V. 4).

There is no reason to live in fear or dread, day or night (V. 5-6). Instead, we are urged to pray because the Lord will rescue those who call upon Him (V. 14-15). He has angels to dispense as our supporters and protectors (V. 11-12).

How wonderful to serve a God who cares about us. Let's remember this powerful God can help us and provide needed protection whenever we activate our faith to call upon Him for help.

*Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2207 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by Permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

*Pixabay: Bible, Open, Book Images; Pexel.

 

You Can Count On This

I once asked Mom, “What is your favorite Bible verse?” She immediately answered, “Great peace have they who love thy law: And nothing shall offend them” (Psalm 119:165, KJV).

As a minister’s wife for fifty years, I’m sure there were plenty of times this verse helped her. Offensive things can be odors, actions, or words. But I think words take the prize.

I tried to follow Mom’s example. God’s word was my peace, and I wanted to please Him above all others. But I also appreciate the wisdom of Solomon in that there is . . . a time to be silent and a time to speak (*Ecclesiastes 3:7b, BSB).

I was reminded of Mom’s verse this week as I studied Psalm 119. Perhaps you know that this Psalm is the longest chapter in the Bible. If we could read it in the original Hebrew, we would see that there are twenty-two sections, each one beginning with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. I so enjoy these small nuggets of God’s word.

I stopped to consider Psalm 119:160 this week. The New Living Translation (*NLT) says: The very essence of your words is truth; all your regulations will stand forever. I don’t know about you, but I’m having a hard time knowing who’s telling the truth these days.

What a relief to know I can read God’s word and trust what it says. It’s not ever going to become obsolete since God’s word will stand truthfully forever. We are cautioned to be people of truth as well. First John 2:3-6 says if we say we love God, but don’t keep His commandments we are liars, there’s no truth in us.

Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Could it be any plainer?

You can’t count on what you don’t know. Are you reading your personal Bible daily?

Time is valuable. Consider your earthly and heavenly priorities. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever (Isaiah 40:8).

BSB: The Holy Bible, The Berean Standard Bible, Copyright 2022 by Bible Hub, Used by Permission, All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

KJV: The Holy Bible, King James Version, The World Publishing Company, New York, USA, Used by permission.

NLT: The Holy Bible, New Living Translation, Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois, Copyright 2012, Used by Permission.

From Inside Out

It’s hard to tell what a person is thinking if they are quietly resting somewhere. If they were dancing, singing, or waving their hands we might guess they were happy. If they wore earbuds, we might think they were listening to some moving music.    

Some people are more outgoing than others; I’m one of the quieter people. My friends like to tease me about my phlegmatic attitude, but I’m not without opinions. They see me riled up now and then.

What we carry on the inside matters. Sometimes angry people seem calm until something sets them off. Have you ever been the shocked recipient of such an outburst?

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible. Read it sometime. While writing about the value of God’s word, David said, “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). 

How much time have you spent reading, studying, or meditating on God’s word this week? We make time for things that are important to us. A daily devotional is good, but it’s more like a spiritual snack. You need a more nourishing scriptural meal sometime each day.

Here’s another question: Have you listened to any Godly music lately? Paul said we could encourage one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, while at the same time giving thanks to God in our hearts (Ephesians 5:19-20). Remember Psalm 100? Praise and thanksgiving help us enter into God’s presence.

There is a time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Sometimes I meditate quietly on the goodness of the Lord, and sometimes I join with others in outward worship.

At church, I want to be actively involved, not just stand there and never move my lips even if I don’t know the song well. The amazing thing is that I often have one of the worship songs come to mind at home. And here I thought I wasn’t learning anything!

*All Scriptures from The Holy Bible, Berean Standard Bible (BSB), Published by Bible Hub, Pittsburg, PA, USA, Copyright 2022; Used by permission.

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The Weight of Waiting

In many ways, we live in a society of instant gratification. We can use drive-throughs for food, banking, and med pickup. Even groceries can be called in and ready for us when we arrive.

I don’t know about you, but I’m thankful for cell phone instant communication, even if it takes 40 texts to cover a conversation that might have taken five minutes by phone. Of course, that’s if we didn’t have to wait for a return call after leaving a voicemail.

The weight of waiting affects us all. For me, waiting for a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan seemed pretty weighty. I had a year of treatments, and, thanks to God, they worked!

Twice I was a caregiver. Two and a half years for dad, and two years for my husband. Days dragged by for all of us. My waiting weight was lifted daily by Lamentations 3:22-24. Fresh NEW Godly mercies, what could be better?

I study the Book of Psalms quite often. Today, in Psalm 40, David poured out his heart to God from a miry pit of despair. Oozing mud bogs you down. 

David declared that God lifted him out of his emotional pit, steadied him, and gave him a new song (v. 1-3). We know it’s usually happy people that sing. I remember when I first got engaged and we were driving from California to Arizona to tell my family. While driving, my fiancé burst out in song about us, and it made me happy to know he was happy.

There is joy in trusting in the Lord and in doing His will (v. 4, 8). David declared this to be true because of God’s mercy shown by His unfailing love and faithfulness (v. 10-11).

God is as available to us as He was to David. The LORD is good, and His loving devotion endures forever; His faithfulness continues to all generations (Psalm 100:5 BSB).

Like David, let’s trust in God and pour out our hearts to Him. With renewed hope, don’t be surprised to feel some relief from the weight of waiting.

*All Scriptures from The Holy Bible, Berean Standard Bible (BSB), Published by Bible Hub, Pittsburg, PA, USA, Copyright 2022; Used by permission.

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Who Cares?

Loneliness is a given in the human condition. Wm. C. Martin might have been experiencing such feelings when he penned a hymn made famous by George Beverly Shea and other great vocalists. It’s a personal favorite: *My Heavenly Father Watches Over Me.

Here’s how it starts: I trust in God wherever I may be, upon the land or on the rolling sea. For come what may, from day to day, my heavenly father watches over me. He later mentions God’s care whether in the lion’s den or prison pen, through flood or flame, and, last of all, he declares through the gloom He’ll lead me home.

David believed in a God who cares. Take for example **Psalm 27:13. It says he believed he would see God’s goodness in the land of the living. This was in contrast to Psalm 23:6 where he said he would live in God’s house forever. We can only conclude that God was his hope for time and eternity.

Psalm 31 gives us a few more of God’s caring qualities. He always does what is right, He’s a rock of refuge and a stronghold of deliverance, faithful to rescue His followers because of His unfailing love.

David poured out his heart in prayer because, in his life experience, God heard and answered them. He served a living God, not some worthless idol of no help when needed.

There are many reasons for loneliness. In Psalm 31 David was hurting not only because of his enemies, but neighbors and friends were also treating him with disdain. He said they turned the other way when they saw him on the street, he was being slandered, and plots were being made against him.

David praised the Lord for all the times He had already shown the wonders of His unfailing love. Later on, he declared, “My health may fail and my spirit may grow weak but God remains the strength of my heart. He is mine forever.” (Psalm 73:26)

Who cares? God cares. When we’re lonely and/or frustrated with life, let’s put our hope and trust in God, speaking freely from our hearts to Him in prayer. And listening to uplifting songs such as the one by Wm. C. Martin may be encouraging, also.

*Hymnary.org; lyrics: My Heavenly Father Watches Over Me; Wm. C. Martin, Author (1864-1914); Copyright: Public Domain.

**All Scriptures from The Holy Bible, Berean Standard Bible (BSB), Published by Bible Hub, Pittsburg, PA, USA, Copyright 2022; Used by permission.

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Love and Loyalty

I’m always intrigued by the Book of Psalms. Today I read an interesting psalm that read like a self-inventory, but it also reminded me of Emily Browning’s “How Do I Love Thee---Let me Count the Ways.”

Do we ever talk to God about how we love Him, or do we just say, “I love you, Lord” and let it go at that?

In Psalm 26 (*NLT), David listed about a dozen ways he tried to show his love and loyalty to God. One was the importance of living according to God’s truth (v. 3). We are blessed to have the Bible in our language, but do we read it, meditate upon it, and apply it to our daily choices? Hebrews 10:5-7 reminds us that Christ came to do God’s will. Should we do any less?

This psalm also says David was choosy about whom he spent time with. For example, he didn’t spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites (v. 4, 5). Close friendship with evildoers was not on his list. We live with people of all kinds and interact with them on various levels, but pleasing God should be our priority.

Here's another important action: Giving praise and thanks to God (v. 6-8,12). We need to do it both privately and publicly, or in a group setting. Psalm 100:4-5 says we are to enter into God’s gates with thanksgiving, then move on into His courts with praise. Why? Three reasons are given: 1) The Lord is good, 2) His love is unfailing, and 3) His faithfulness is to all generations.

You can’t miss the fact that David was aware of the differences between the godly and the wicked. Twice he declared he lived and acted with integrity (v. 1, 11). Such a person lives true to their moral principles. Their honest lives can be attested to by both the people around them and by God.

Remember, it's important to consider how we show our love and loyalty in relationships . . . both earthly and heavenly. A little self-check might do us some good, too.

*All scriptures this week are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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