I trust you will enjoy this sweet little Christmas story by Pat Leonard.
"John was almost five years old that Christmas. He did not have a part in the school Christmas pageant, but was just one of the many children in the Kindergarten class choir. As the children gathered in the assembly room at school for the program, the teachers were busy with preparations and the costumes of those chosen to be Mary and Joseph and the angels, shepherds, and wise men. No one noticed a little boy go out the door into the hall.
John had heard the Baby! There was to be a Baby -- he knew that. And he had heard him. Down the dark hall was the way he had to go. As he walked, John wondered why God didn't send the star, and then he remembered. The star wasn't for him. It was really for the shepherds and the wise men, and he wasn't anybody important like that. He'd have to be very brave and go alone to find the Baby. He turned the corner cautiously.
At the far end of the hall, John saw a light coming from a doorway. Then he heard the Baby's cry more clearly. He knew then where to go.
Mary Meadowcraft knelt beside the brown beanbag chair her husband, Joe, had brought to school for his sixth-grade reading corner as she put young Jeffrey down to rest. He was normally a contented baby. Had she known he would cry like this, she would have stayed at home with him instead of coming to school with Joe to see the pageant.
The sudden presence of so many eager children must have frightened Jeffrey, for he began crying almost immediately and would not be stilled. At least the program would not be long. Mary had decided to wait here in Joe's classroom with the baby so his crying would not disturb anyone.
Suddenly Mary was startled to hear a little voice questioning, 'Are you Mary'?
'Why, yes, I am,' she answered with amazement! 'Do I know you'?
'I came to see your Baby', said John, 'I didn't know He ever cried like that', he added softly.
'Jeffrey is just frightened to be in a strange place,'
'Hi', John said as he too knelt down beside the baby. 'I'm John. I'm not a wise man or anything, but they couldn't come.
The baby stopped crying immediately and turned to look at John. Mary remained perfectly still, her mouth drawn into an astonished 'Oh'!
'I forgot to bring you something, little Jeffrey Jesus.' Then John smiled. 'I know what I can give you. I'll sing you a song that we've been practicing. I know all the words'
By now John's parents had come searching for him. They were stopped in the doorway, however, by the sight of Mary and her Baby listening to John's gift of song:
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,
And take us to heaven to live with Thee there.
The Baby beamed at the singing child, while the three adults, their hearts full of wonder, saw a glimpse of a very young angel that night."
Jesus said ...Suffer little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
Monday, December 18, 2017
Oh, Come . . .
"Oh, Come All Ye Faithful" is one of my very favorite Christmas carols.
"Oh, come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant.
Oh, come ye, oh, come ye to Bethlehem.
Come and behold Him, born the King of angels.
Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exaltation.
Oh, sing, all ye bright hosts of heaven above.
Glory to God, all glory in the highest!
Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning.
O Jesus, to Thee be all glory given.
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing."
The words are so beautiful, and the verses just seem to keep building in praise and adoration until the hymn writer is compelled to give the thrilling invitation --
"Oh, come, let us adore Him. Oh, come, let us adore Him.
Oh, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord"!
It makes me think of the beautiful scripture in the 5th chapter of Revelation where the angels are exalting the Lamb, and then every creature joins in the universal adoration of the Lamb who is King!
"And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands:
Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever."
I cannot begin to comprehend the miracle of that holy night so long ago when God laid a Baby on the doorstep of our world and angels filled the heavens announcing His birth! But I am so thankful that God's love reaches clear down to Christmas, 2017, and whosoever will may come!
"Oh, come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant.
Oh, come ye, oh, come ye to Bethlehem.
Come and behold Him, born the King of angels.
Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exaltation.
Oh, sing, all ye bright hosts of heaven above.
Glory to God, all glory in the highest!
Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning.
O Jesus, to Thee be all glory given.
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing."
The words are so beautiful, and the verses just seem to keep building in praise and adoration until the hymn writer is compelled to give the thrilling invitation --
"Oh, come, let us adore Him. Oh, come, let us adore Him.
Oh, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord"!
It makes me think of the beautiful scripture in the 5th chapter of Revelation where the angels are exalting the Lamb, and then every creature joins in the universal adoration of the Lamb who is King!
"And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands:
Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever."
I cannot begin to comprehend the miracle of that holy night so long ago when God laid a Baby on the doorstep of our world and angels filled the heavens announcing His birth! But I am so thankful that God's love reaches clear down to Christmas, 2017, and whosoever will may come!
Friday, December 15, 2017
It's Time Again!
As we lay aside the cares of the work week, and look forward to Christmas events this week end, may we take some time to meditate on the beautiful words of this lovely Christmas poem by Vera Hoffman.
"The hills are bright with soft new snow;
And in the glen a space below,
The Church stands glowing in the light
That creeps across the land tonight.
The footsteps through the fallen snow
Wind down a hill, and on they go
To stop before the great Church door
While organ music starts to pour
Out o'er the twilight soft and clear --
Another Christmastime is here.
The steeple's gold is like a sign
Aflame to welcome Christmastime;
Its windows gleam in orange and blue,
Recalling ancient scenes we knew.
The people come from near and far,
As years ago a shining Star
Shone from the heavens, guiding men
To the small town of Bethlehem.
Now church bells ring out clear and call
To others as the shadows fall.
'Tis time to kneel and praise and sing
Hosannas to the newborn King!"
"Come and worship! Come and worship! Worship Christ, the newborn King!"
"The hills are bright with soft new snow;
And in the glen a space below,
The Church stands glowing in the light
That creeps across the land tonight.
The footsteps through the fallen snow
Wind down a hill, and on they go
To stop before the great Church door
While organ music starts to pour
Out o'er the twilight soft and clear --
Another Christmastime is here.
The steeple's gold is like a sign
Aflame to welcome Christmastime;
Its windows gleam in orange and blue,
Recalling ancient scenes we knew.
The people come from near and far,
As years ago a shining Star
Shone from the heavens, guiding men
To the small town of Bethlehem.
Now church bells ring out clear and call
To others as the shadows fall.
'Tis time to kneel and praise and sing
Hosannas to the newborn King!"
"Come and worship! Come and worship! Worship Christ, the newborn King!"
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
The Messiah!
For me, Christmas and Handel's Messiah are bound together. It seems to me that God, Himself, wrote this masterpiece over 200 years ago through His servant, and it is still blessing and inspiring thousands of hearts every Christmas!
May Jesus, whose birth we celebrate, minister to your heart as you read this condensed story of The Messiah -- the King of Glory!!
"George Frederick Handel was struggling against creditors and hunger in 1741. People were too poor and too cold to interest themselves in music that winter. He paced the floor, wondering why musicians and composers had to struggle so hard to make a living. Suddenly there was a crash -- then silence.
Handel's servant heard the strange crash and ran upstairs. There in the hall lay Handel, the genius, his mouth open and a vacant stare in his eyes. When the Dr. arrived, he shook his head. After his diagnosis, he turned to go. The servant fearfully asked, "Dr., is he goiug to die"? "A miracle might save his life, but his left side is paralyzed."
Weeks wore on. The great composer revived some, but was unable to use his left hand to play, and his mind seemed dull. The Dr. advised a trip to the hot springs in France. Handel went to France with a great desire to live and compose again. He spent hours in the hot baths. Within a few weeks he had largely recovered his health.
Back in London, Handel began to play again and to compose some. Then hard times struck again. The Spanish wars were raging. His pension had been cut off. People were hungry for bread. Winter came on, and at times Handel had to pace the streets to keep warm and to evade his creditors. Inspiration had left him. He was despondent, and seemed to be losing his strength, his mind, his belief in God and his desire to live.
"Oh God, why has all this come"? he cried in despair. He dragged himself to his study before retiring. On his table was a large envelope. He tore it open and on the title page were the words, The Messiah. Seeing that it was another oratorio, he tore the manuscript in half and threw it on the floor. His last oratorios had not met with approval. That night, the heavy-hearted composer turned and tossed, unable to get the torn manuscript off his mind. Should he get up and look at it?
The first few words were "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people" The words seemed to soothe him. As he read on, he felt a strange fire surge through his frame. Surely it was a message from the Lord directly to him! The great musician was himself again! God had spoken to his soul! He heard and felt music again as never before!! The words, "Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!" seemed to move every fibre of his body. How they thrilled him. Even the final words, "Amen! Amen! Amen!" seemed to thrill him again and he exclaimed -- "I cannot slight one word. Every word must play its part."
He began to compose like a man obsessed. He rarely left his room and rarely touched his meals. In only 24 days, he composed 260 pages -- an immense physical feat == and the world's greatest oratorio was finished. After finishing the Hallelujah Chorus, he said -- "I did think I did see all heaven before me and the great God Himself"!
The Messiah met with overwhelming success wherever it was presented. People wept for joy as they heard its moving music. It seemed to breathe of a heavenly land. On one occasion the whole audience, including King George, stood to their feet as the Hallelujah Chorus was sung. It was as if they were standing reverently in the presence of the Divine. Years later on a Good Friday, George Frederick Handel attended a presentation of his Messiah (of which he said --"it was written by Another, not me") and joined in singing the Hallelujah Chorus! With the closing notes he sank to the floor and was carried out. He lingered only a short time before he went to join the heavenly choir to sing the Hallelujah Chorus around the throne of God!!"
May Jesus, whose birth we celebrate, minister to your heart as you read this condensed story of The Messiah -- the King of Glory!!
"George Frederick Handel was struggling against creditors and hunger in 1741. People were too poor and too cold to interest themselves in music that winter. He paced the floor, wondering why musicians and composers had to struggle so hard to make a living. Suddenly there was a crash -- then silence.
Handel's servant heard the strange crash and ran upstairs. There in the hall lay Handel, the genius, his mouth open and a vacant stare in his eyes. When the Dr. arrived, he shook his head. After his diagnosis, he turned to go. The servant fearfully asked, "Dr., is he goiug to die"? "A miracle might save his life, but his left side is paralyzed."
Weeks wore on. The great composer revived some, but was unable to use his left hand to play, and his mind seemed dull. The Dr. advised a trip to the hot springs in France. Handel went to France with a great desire to live and compose again. He spent hours in the hot baths. Within a few weeks he had largely recovered his health.
Back in London, Handel began to play again and to compose some. Then hard times struck again. The Spanish wars were raging. His pension had been cut off. People were hungry for bread. Winter came on, and at times Handel had to pace the streets to keep warm and to evade his creditors. Inspiration had left him. He was despondent, and seemed to be losing his strength, his mind, his belief in God and his desire to live.
"Oh God, why has all this come"? he cried in despair. He dragged himself to his study before retiring. On his table was a large envelope. He tore it open and on the title page were the words, The Messiah. Seeing that it was another oratorio, he tore the manuscript in half and threw it on the floor. His last oratorios had not met with approval. That night, the heavy-hearted composer turned and tossed, unable to get the torn manuscript off his mind. Should he get up and look at it?
The first few words were "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people" The words seemed to soothe him. As he read on, he felt a strange fire surge through his frame. Surely it was a message from the Lord directly to him! The great musician was himself again! God had spoken to his soul! He heard and felt music again as never before!! The words, "Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!" seemed to move every fibre of his body. How they thrilled him. Even the final words, "Amen! Amen! Amen!" seemed to thrill him again and he exclaimed -- "I cannot slight one word. Every word must play its part."
He began to compose like a man obsessed. He rarely left his room and rarely touched his meals. In only 24 days, he composed 260 pages -- an immense physical feat == and the world's greatest oratorio was finished. After finishing the Hallelujah Chorus, he said -- "I did think I did see all heaven before me and the great God Himself"!
The Messiah met with overwhelming success wherever it was presented. People wept for joy as they heard its moving music. It seemed to breathe of a heavenly land. On one occasion the whole audience, including King George, stood to their feet as the Hallelujah Chorus was sung. It was as if they were standing reverently in the presence of the Divine. Years later on a Good Friday, George Frederick Handel attended a presentation of his Messiah (of which he said --"it was written by Another, not me") and joined in singing the Hallelujah Chorus! With the closing notes he sank to the floor and was carried out. He lingered only a short time before he went to join the heavenly choir to sing the Hallelujah Chorus around the throne of God!!"
Monday, December 11, 2017
Christmas Commandments!
It is Monday again, and I trust your household is filled with love and peace as you prepare for the Birthday of the King! The Christmas carols are so beautiful -- let us keep them ringing in our hearts and homes throughout this blessed season!
I read these "Ten Commandments for Christmas" in a Sunday School paper I had kept from 11 years ago. Perhaps it would be good for us to meditate on them again this Christmas.
1. Thou shalt not leave "Christ" out of Christmas, making it "Xmas." To most minds, "X" does not stand for Christ, but for the algebraic unknown.
2. Thou shalt not value thy gifts by their cost, for many shall signify love that is more blessed and beautiful than silver and gold.
3. Thou shalt give thyself with thy gifts. Thy love, thy personality, and thy service shall increase the value of thy gifts an hundredfold, and he that receiveth it shall treasure it forever.
4. Thou shalt not let Santa Claus take the place of Christ, lest Christmas become a fairy tale rather than a sublime reality in the spiritual realm.
5. Thou shalt not burden thy servant. The shop girl, the mail carrier, and the merchant shall have thy consideration.
6. Thou shalt not neglect thy church. Its Christmas services are planned to help spiritualize the Christmas season for thee, thy family, and thy friends.
7. Thou shalt not neglect the needy. Let thy bountiful blessings be shared with the many who will go hungry and cold unless thou art generous at Christmas.
8. Thou shalt be as a little child. Christmas is the day of the Christ Child; not until thou hast become in spirit as a little child art thou ready to enter into the kingdom of heaven.
9. Thou shalt prepare thy soul for Christmas. Verily most of us spend much time and money getting gifts ready, but few seconds in preparing our souls.
10. Thou shalt give thy heart to Christ. Let thy Christmas list have Christ at the top and thy heart as the gift. In so doing thou art as the wise men of old, and verily thou shalt find thyself born again on Christmas Day!
I read these "Ten Commandments for Christmas" in a Sunday School paper I had kept from 11 years ago. Perhaps it would be good for us to meditate on them again this Christmas.
1. Thou shalt not leave "Christ" out of Christmas, making it "Xmas." To most minds, "X" does not stand for Christ, but for the algebraic unknown.
2. Thou shalt not value thy gifts by their cost, for many shall signify love that is more blessed and beautiful than silver and gold.
3. Thou shalt give thyself with thy gifts. Thy love, thy personality, and thy service shall increase the value of thy gifts an hundredfold, and he that receiveth it shall treasure it forever.
4. Thou shalt not let Santa Claus take the place of Christ, lest Christmas become a fairy tale rather than a sublime reality in the spiritual realm.
5. Thou shalt not burden thy servant. The shop girl, the mail carrier, and the merchant shall have thy consideration.
6. Thou shalt not neglect thy church. Its Christmas services are planned to help spiritualize the Christmas season for thee, thy family, and thy friends.
7. Thou shalt not neglect the needy. Let thy bountiful blessings be shared with the many who will go hungry and cold unless thou art generous at Christmas.
8. Thou shalt be as a little child. Christmas is the day of the Christ Child; not until thou hast become in spirit as a little child art thou ready to enter into the kingdom of heaven.
9. Thou shalt prepare thy soul for Christmas. Verily most of us spend much time and money getting gifts ready, but few seconds in preparing our souls.
10. Thou shalt give thy heart to Christ. Let thy Christmas list have Christ at the top and thy heart as the gift. In so doing thou art as the wise men of old, and verily thou shalt find thyself born again on Christmas Day!
Friday, December 8, 2017
Amazing Love!
"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger."
--Luke 2:8-16
"With their ears, the shepherds heard
the glorious proclamation that the Saviour was born ...
With their eyes, they looked upon the Word
who became flesh and dwelt among them...
With their hearts, they rejoiced
in the gift of God's amazing love."
--Roy Lessin
And now, it's Christmas time again, and we celebrate --
"A little Child -- A shining star --
A stable rude -- The door ajar.
Yet, in that place -- so crude, forlorn --
The Hope of all the world was born."
"Oh, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord"!
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger."
--Luke 2:8-16
"With their ears, the shepherds heard
the glorious proclamation that the Saviour was born ...
With their eyes, they looked upon the Word
who became flesh and dwelt among them...
With their hearts, they rejoiced
in the gift of God's amazing love."
--Roy Lessin
And now, it's Christmas time again, and we celebrate --
"A little Child -- A shining star --
A stable rude -- The door ajar.
Yet, in that place -- so crude, forlorn --
The Hope of all the world was born."
"Oh, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord"!
Wednesday, December 6, 2017
My Gift!
Most everyone is rushing about, searching here and there -- counting again to see if they have left out anyone on their seemingly endless Christmas list! But have we given much thought to the real reason we are celebrating? Have we taken any time to contemplate the miracle of Christmas -- the Birthday of the King?
What gift are we going to give to the One whose name is called "Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." The One "that created the heavens, and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; He that giveth breath unto the people upon it; and spirit to them that walk therein."?
There is only one gift we can give to Jesus, and I trust that you will open your heart in humble submission as you read and contemplate the message of this sweet song.
"Me! My gift is me! All I am and all I'll ever be. I'm not ashamed for the world to see that it's me, my gift is me!
What I have to give to You cannot be bought or sold;
It can't be wrapped up in a box or tied with strings of gold.
It isn't perfect, and You'll see -- it isn't even new,
But Jesus -- it's the only treasure I can give to You!
Me! My gift is me! All I am and all I'll ever be. I'm not ashamed for the world to see that it's me, my gift is me!
Jesus, you're the greatest gift the world will ever know,
Coming down from heaven just to live your love below;
With all that You have done for me, the least that I can do,
Is give all that I know of me to all I know of You!
Of all the gifts men could give --
It's nice to know that I can give His favorite gift --
The one that thrills Him so -- Me! My gift is me! All I am and all I'll ever be.
I'm not ashamed for the world to see that it's me, my gift is me!!
"Not just a part--or half of my heart--I will give ALL to Thee"!
What gift are we going to give to the One whose name is called "Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." The One "that created the heavens, and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; He that giveth breath unto the people upon it; and spirit to them that walk therein."?
There is only one gift we can give to Jesus, and I trust that you will open your heart in humble submission as you read and contemplate the message of this sweet song.
"Me! My gift is me! All I am and all I'll ever be. I'm not ashamed for the world to see that it's me, my gift is me!
What I have to give to You cannot be bought or sold;
It can't be wrapped up in a box or tied with strings of gold.
It isn't perfect, and You'll see -- it isn't even new,
But Jesus -- it's the only treasure I can give to You!
Me! My gift is me! All I am and all I'll ever be. I'm not ashamed for the world to see that it's me, my gift is me!
Jesus, you're the greatest gift the world will ever know,
Coming down from heaven just to live your love below;
With all that You have done for me, the least that I can do,
Is give all that I know of me to all I know of You!
Of all the gifts men could give --
It's nice to know that I can give His favorite gift --
The one that thrills Him so -- Me! My gift is me! All I am and all I'll ever be.
I'm not ashamed for the world to see that it's me, my gift is me!!
"Not just a part--or half of my heart--I will give ALL to Thee"!
Monday, December 4, 2017
I Believe In Miracles!
My good friends, Brother and Sister Brock, were missionaries in Papua New Guinea for many years. She recently shared with me a thrilling and amazing miracle that God has wrought. It was such a blessing to me -- I wanted to share it with you today!
Sis. Brock sent me an article from the PNG newspaper which said: "For the first time in the history of the Jewish community , a gentile (non-Jewish) church has been invited to take part in a church opening ceremony in Galilee district, Israel, next week. Rev. Berry Tina of the Papua New Guinea Bible Church, based in Warakum in Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province, was proud to announce this historic achievement last Friday.
We are privileged to be part of the significant change, and the Jewish community has offered to plant 42 tree seedlings for the 42 PNG Bible church members that will be traveling. Rev. Tina said the trip was not a coincidence, but he believes it was God's plan. This is because the founder of Bible Church, American missionary G. T. Bustin, went to Israel five months after the birth of Israel as a nation, and God called him to go to New Guinea (now PNG). And now, after 70 years, it was God's call for me to lead my people back to Israel."
Bro. and Sis. Brock are still greatly loved and revered by the New Guinea people, and the person sending this information to Sis. Brock said:
"Rev. Beri wants me to send a few pictures to you both in honour of your teachings and upbringing that impacted his life. He is the black Brock preaching Sanctification and Holiness here! And we, his Hagen congregation and District are so privileged to have such a leader.
He was blessed awesomely by God for Tour Leader for his commitment to God in 1996 to bring his congregation to witness the Mt. of Olives where he took two bags of red and black soil from Hagen. The colors represented the growth of the holiness message, and minerals/businesses in the country to spread the message of Holiness.
Today, Dec. 2nd, was awesome. Many memorable things happened with big surprises! We sang as we sailed on the sea of Galilee. God visited us! There were testimonies, songs and worship.Then another BIG surprise! The Israeli family gave an olive tree to Rev. Beri to plant for PNG Bible church. He planted in a big area. We thank God for opening doors for Missions in Israel. Tomorrow will be the church opening!
Apo and Toto (Bro. & Sis. Brock), this is your work! Rev. Beri told me to relay the message to you! So happy to be part of this. This olive tree is planted in a location where a vast of empty land is situated. Akex Barrack, from the tribe of Naphtali gave the best! Last night we, the 42, stayed for hours at their Jewish home after Rev. Beri planted the olive tree as a new covenant with PNG Bible Church.
Today, the 42 of us were met at the Israel Airport with a bus painted Welcome to Israel and the places we met with these writings.
On Sunday, he will open and dedicate a church in Galilee called, PNG Bible Church Hagen Synagogue."
Sis. Brock adds: "Bro. Beri (that led the group) is an outstanding pastor and very respected in the town and among government leaders. The soil he took to Israel he somehow poured out on the Mt. of Olives. He said when Jesus returns, he was hoping one of Jesus' feet would land on the PNG soil and the other foot on Israel!!"
Praise the Lord!!! Our God is the same yesterday, today and forever!! Perhaps God wants to use you to be part of a miracle? Will you be a vessel for Him?
Sis. Brock sent me an article from the PNG newspaper which said: "For the first time in the history of the Jewish community , a gentile (non-Jewish) church has been invited to take part in a church opening ceremony in Galilee district, Israel, next week. Rev. Berry Tina of the Papua New Guinea Bible Church, based in Warakum in Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province, was proud to announce this historic achievement last Friday.
We are privileged to be part of the significant change, and the Jewish community has offered to plant 42 tree seedlings for the 42 PNG Bible church members that will be traveling. Rev. Tina said the trip was not a coincidence, but he believes it was God's plan. This is because the founder of Bible Church, American missionary G. T. Bustin, went to Israel five months after the birth of Israel as a nation, and God called him to go to New Guinea (now PNG). And now, after 70 years, it was God's call for me to lead my people back to Israel."
Bro. and Sis. Brock are still greatly loved and revered by the New Guinea people, and the person sending this information to Sis. Brock said:
"Rev. Beri wants me to send a few pictures to you both in honour of your teachings and upbringing that impacted his life. He is the black Brock preaching Sanctification and Holiness here! And we, his Hagen congregation and District are so privileged to have such a leader.
He was blessed awesomely by God for Tour Leader for his commitment to God in 1996 to bring his congregation to witness the Mt. of Olives where he took two bags of red and black soil from Hagen. The colors represented the growth of the holiness message, and minerals/businesses in the country to spread the message of Holiness.
Today, Dec. 2nd, was awesome. Many memorable things happened with big surprises! We sang as we sailed on the sea of Galilee. God visited us! There were testimonies, songs and worship.Then another BIG surprise! The Israeli family gave an olive tree to Rev. Beri to plant for PNG Bible church. He planted in a big area. We thank God for opening doors for Missions in Israel. Tomorrow will be the church opening!
Apo and Toto (Bro. & Sis. Brock), this is your work! Rev. Beri told me to relay the message to you! So happy to be part of this. This olive tree is planted in a location where a vast of empty land is situated. Akex Barrack, from the tribe of Naphtali gave the best! Last night we, the 42, stayed for hours at their Jewish home after Rev. Beri planted the olive tree as a new covenant with PNG Bible Church.
Today, the 42 of us were met at the Israel Airport with a bus painted Welcome to Israel and the places we met with these writings.
On Sunday, he will open and dedicate a church in Galilee called, PNG Bible Church Hagen Synagogue."
Sis. Brock adds: "Bro. Beri (that led the group) is an outstanding pastor and very respected in the town and among government leaders. The soil he took to Israel he somehow poured out on the Mt. of Olives. He said when Jesus returns, he was hoping one of Jesus' feet would land on the PNG soil and the other foot on Israel!!"
Praise the Lord!!! Our God is the same yesterday, today and forever!! Perhaps God wants to use you to be part of a miracle? Will you be a vessel for Him?
Friday, December 1, 2017
Emmanuel !
Today is the first day of December, and Matthew tells us in the first chapter of his gospel:
"Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us."
I really like this devotional thought from Oswald Chambers:
"Jesus Christ is not man becoming God, but God incarnate -- God coming into human flesh from outside it. His life is the highest and the holiest entering through the most humble of doors. Have I allowed my personal human life to become a "Bethlehem" for the Son of God?"
"Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in."
"Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us."
I really like this devotional thought from Oswald Chambers:
"Jesus Christ is not man becoming God, but God incarnate -- God coming into human flesh from outside it. His life is the highest and the holiest entering through the most humble of doors. Have I allowed my personal human life to become a "Bethlehem" for the Son of God?"
"Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in."
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Is Christmas Costly?
As we begin another blessed Christmas season, perhaps it would be good for us to take a little time from our busy plans for Christmas and meditate on the thoughts expressed in this poem by Martin Cox.
"It cost Mary and Joseph the comforts of home during a long period of exile in Egypt to protect the little Babe.
It cost mothers in and around Bethlehem the massacre of their babies by the cruel order of Herod.
It cost the shepherds the complacency of their shepherds' life with the call to the manger and to tell the good news.
It cost the wise men a long journey and expensive gifts and changed lives.
It cost the early apostles and the Early Church persecution and sometimes death.
It cost missionaries of the Christ untold suffering and privation to spread the good news.
It cost Korean and other Christian martyrs in all ages their lives for Christ's sake.
More than all --
It cost God the Father His own Son -- He sent Him to the earth to save men.
It cost Jesus a life of sacrifice and service, a death cruel and unmatched in history.
Is Christmas too costly?
It is, if all that it means is exchanges of cards and gifts.
It is, if all that it means is tinsel.
It is, if all that it means is the millions spent in commercialization of Christmas.
It is, if all that it means is a holiday.
It isn't too costly --
If it means the hope of the world!
If it means the forgiveness of sin!
If it means peace among men!
If it means joyous singing!"
Does Christmas cost you and me? What shall I give Thee, Master? Not just a part or half of my heart -- I will give All to Thee!!
"It cost Mary and Joseph the comforts of home during a long period of exile in Egypt to protect the little Babe.
It cost mothers in and around Bethlehem the massacre of their babies by the cruel order of Herod.
It cost the shepherds the complacency of their shepherds' life with the call to the manger and to tell the good news.
It cost the wise men a long journey and expensive gifts and changed lives.
It cost the early apostles and the Early Church persecution and sometimes death.
It cost missionaries of the Christ untold suffering and privation to spread the good news.
It cost Korean and other Christian martyrs in all ages their lives for Christ's sake.
More than all --
It cost God the Father His own Son -- He sent Him to the earth to save men.
It cost Jesus a life of sacrifice and service, a death cruel and unmatched in history.
Is Christmas too costly?
It is, if all that it means is exchanges of cards and gifts.
It is, if all that it means is tinsel.
It is, if all that it means is the millions spent in commercialization of Christmas.
It is, if all that it means is a holiday.
It isn't too costly --
If it means the hope of the world!
If it means the forgiveness of sin!
If it means peace among men!
If it means joyous singing!"
Does Christmas cost you and me? What shall I give Thee, Master? Not just a part or half of my heart -- I will give All to Thee!!
Monday, November 27, 2017
Thanks-living!
Thanksgiving Day has officially ended, but sweet memories of the family gathered around the Thanksgiving table singing the Doxology, bowing our heads and our hearts in humble thanks to the Giver, will linger on in my heart.
Today people have gone back to their jobs -- the holiday is over -- but let us determine that we are going to make every day a day of Thanks-living! Psalm 150, the last Psalm in this marvelous book, speaks about praising our Lord. Prayer and Praise and Thanksgiving go together, so let's just praise the Lord and in everything give thanks!
"Praise ye the Lord. Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in the firmament of His power.
Praise Him for His mighty acts: praise Him according to His excellent greatness.
Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet: praise Him with the psaltery and harp.
Praise Him with the timbrel and dance: praise Him with stringed instruments and organs.
Praise Him upon the loud cymbals: praise Him upon the high sounding cymbals,
Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord."
Today people have gone back to their jobs -- the holiday is over -- but let us determine that we are going to make every day a day of Thanks-living! Psalm 150, the last Psalm in this marvelous book, speaks about praising our Lord. Prayer and Praise and Thanksgiving go together, so let's just praise the Lord and in everything give thanks!
"Praise ye the Lord. Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in the firmament of His power.
Praise Him for His mighty acts: praise Him according to His excellent greatness.
Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet: praise Him with the psaltery and harp.
Praise Him with the timbrel and dance: praise Him with stringed instruments and organs.
Praise Him upon the loud cymbals: praise Him upon the high sounding cymbals,
Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord."
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Thanksgiving Eve!
Wonderful aromas are filling kitchens across America today as mothers and daughters are preparing wonderful desserts, delicious salads, yummy sweet potatoes with lots of butter and brown sugar, turkeys, hams, and all the Thanksgiving traditions your family enjoys! But the best part will be to have the family gathered together around the Thanksgiving table, and taking time to bow our heads and our hearts to our wonderful Lord, thanking Him for His great love and tender mercies throughout the year!
So as you work in your kitchens today, make sure to take little breaks to praise the Lord, and "In everything, give thanks!"
Best Wishes to you and your loved ones for a blessed Thanksgiving Day!
So as you work in your kitchens today, make sure to take little breaks to praise the Lord, and "In everything, give thanks!"
Best Wishes to you and your loved ones for a blessed Thanksgiving Day!
Monday, November 20, 2017
Thank You, Lord
"Thank You, Lord, for saving my soul. Thank You, Lord for making me whole!
Thank You, Lord, for giving to me---Thy great salvation so full and free!"
"O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth.
Sing unto the Lord, bless His name: shew forth His salvation from day to day.
O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms."
"Take nothing for granted -- for whenever you do, the 'joy of enjoying' is lessened for you!
For we rob our own lives much more than we know, when we fail to respond -- or in any way show our thanks for the blessings that daily are ours.
The warmth of the sun -- the fragrance of flowers -- the beauty of twilight -- the freshness of dawn; the coolness of dew on a green velvet lawn -- for the joy of enjoying, and the fullness of living, are found in the heart that is filled with Thanksgiving!!"
--Helen Steiner Rice
So as we go about our preparations for Thanksgiving today, may we do so with hearts full of Thanksgiving and praises on our lips!
God bless you, and remember to "Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart!"
Thank You, Lord, for giving to me---Thy great salvation so full and free!"
"O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth.
Sing unto the Lord, bless His name: shew forth His salvation from day to day.
O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms."
"Take nothing for granted -- for whenever you do, the 'joy of enjoying' is lessened for you!
For we rob our own lives much more than we know, when we fail to respond -- or in any way show our thanks for the blessings that daily are ours.
The warmth of the sun -- the fragrance of flowers -- the beauty of twilight -- the freshness of dawn; the coolness of dew on a green velvet lawn -- for the joy of enjoying, and the fullness of living, are found in the heart that is filled with Thanksgiving!!"
--Helen Steiner Rice
So as we go about our preparations for Thanksgiving today, may we do so with hearts full of Thanksgiving and praises on our lips!
God bless you, and remember to "Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart!"
Friday, November 17, 2017
Come, Ye Thankful . . .
The songwriter said, "Come, ye thankful people, Come, Raise the song of harvest home. All is safely gathered in, ere the winter storms begin. God, our Maker, doth provide for our wants to be supplied. Come, to God's own Temple, Come! Raise the song of harvest home."
I also love this beautiful Thanksgiving hymn by Folliott Pierpont:
"For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies.
For the love which from our birth over and around us lies.
For the wonder of each hour of the day and of the night;
Hill and vale, and tree and flower, sun and moon, and stars of light.
For the joy of human love -- Brother, sister, parent, child;
Friends on earth, and friends above; For all gentle thoughts and mild;
For Thy Church that evermore lifteth holy hands above;
Offering up on every shore her pure sacrifice of love.
Lord of all, to Thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise."
This coming Sunday is Thanksgiving Sunday. May we prepare our hearts for this holy day and plan to "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise."
I also love this beautiful Thanksgiving hymn by Folliott Pierpont:
"For the beauty of the earth, for the glory of the skies.
For the love which from our birth over and around us lies.
For the wonder of each hour of the day and of the night;
Hill and vale, and tree and flower, sun and moon, and stars of light.
For the joy of human love -- Brother, sister, parent, child;
Friends on earth, and friends above; For all gentle thoughts and mild;
For Thy Church that evermore lifteth holy hands above;
Offering up on every shore her pure sacrifice of love.
Lord of all, to Thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise."
This coming Sunday is Thanksgiving Sunday. May we prepare our hearts for this holy day and plan to "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise."
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Give Thanks!
The Book of Psalms is filled with Prayer and Praise! It makes me want to sing --
"Give thanks with a grateful heart: Give thanks to the Holy One --
Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son.
And now let the weak say, 'I am strong'! Let the poor say, 'I am rich'!
Because of what the Lord has done for us."
We have so much to give thanks for as we count our blessings throughout this blessed season! The Apostle Paul admonished us to give thanks in everything!
Out of the 150 Psalms, I think Psalm 135 is one of the most lovely Psalms of praise and thanksgiving!
I trust that these verses from this beautiful Psalm will inspire you and draw you closer to the Master throughout this blessed Thanksgiving season!
"Praise ye the Lord! Praise ye the name of the Lord; Praise Him, O ye servants of the Lord.
Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God,
Praise the Lord; for the Lord is good: sing praises unto His name, for it is pleasant.
For the Lord hath chosen Jacob unto Himself, and Israel for His peculiar treasure.
For I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.
Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did He in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places.
He causeth the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth; He maketh lightnings for the rain; He bringeth the wind out of His treasuries.
Thy name, O Lord, endureth for ever; and Thy memorial, O Lord, throughout all generations.
The idols of the heathen are silver and gold; the work of men's hands.
They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not:
They have ears, but they hear not: neither is there any breath in their mouths.
They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them.
Bless the Lord, O house of Israel: bless the Lord, O house of Aaron:
Bless the Lord, O house of Levi: ye that fear the Lord, bless the Lord.
Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the Lord."
"Give thanks with a grateful heart: Give thanks to the Holy One --
Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son.
And now let the weak say, 'I am strong'! Let the poor say, 'I am rich'!
Because of what the Lord has done for us."
We have so much to give thanks for as we count our blessings throughout this blessed season! The Apostle Paul admonished us to give thanks in everything!
Out of the 150 Psalms, I think Psalm 135 is one of the most lovely Psalms of praise and thanksgiving!
I trust that these verses from this beautiful Psalm will inspire you and draw you closer to the Master throughout this blessed Thanksgiving season!
"Praise ye the Lord! Praise ye the name of the Lord; Praise Him, O ye servants of the Lord.
Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God,
Praise the Lord; for the Lord is good: sing praises unto His name, for it is pleasant.
For the Lord hath chosen Jacob unto Himself, and Israel for His peculiar treasure.
For I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.
Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did He in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places.
He causeth the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth; He maketh lightnings for the rain; He bringeth the wind out of His treasuries.
Thy name, O Lord, endureth for ever; and Thy memorial, O Lord, throughout all generations.
The idols of the heathen are silver and gold; the work of men's hands.
They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not:
They have ears, but they hear not: neither is there any breath in their mouths.
They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them.
Bless the Lord, O house of Israel: bless the Lord, O house of Aaron:
Bless the Lord, O house of Levi: ye that fear the Lord, bless the Lord.
Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the Lord."
Monday, November 13, 2017
Let's Spell --
T - TRUST -- "Trust ye in the Lord forever: for in the Lord JEHOVAH is everlasting strength."
--Isaiah 26:4
H -- HOLINESS -- "Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh Thine house, O Lord, forever."
--Psalm 93:5
A -- ASSURANCE -- "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine!"
N -- NOTHING -- "Nothing sweeter can be known than full surrender . . ."
K -- KINDNESS -- "How excellent is Thy loving-kindness, O God!" -- Psalm 36:7a
S -- SWEETER -- "Richer, fuller, deeper, Jesus' love is sweeter, Sweeter as the years go by."
G -- GREAT -- "Great is our Lord, and of great power: His understanding is infinite."
--Psalm 147:5
I -- I -- "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father. but by Me."
--John 14:6
V -- VICTORY -- "As Jehovah liveth, strength divine He giveth, unto those who know Him victory
all the time!"
I -- IF -- ". . . Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto Me and drink."
--John 7:37
N -- NO -- "No one ever cared for me like Jesus; There's no other Friend so kind as He. No one else
could take the sin and darkness from me; O how much He cared for me!"
G -- GLORIOUS -- "Glorious freedom! Wonderful freedom! No more in chains of sin I repine!
Jesus, the glorious Emancipator, now and forever He shall be mine."
Perhaps you would like to add something each day to your spelling of Thanksgiving. I doubt that our praises can ever find end!! God bless you!
--Isaiah 26:4
H -- HOLINESS -- "Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh Thine house, O Lord, forever."
--Psalm 93:5
A -- ASSURANCE -- "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine!"
N -- NOTHING -- "Nothing sweeter can be known than full surrender . . ."
K -- KINDNESS -- "How excellent is Thy loving-kindness, O God!" -- Psalm 36:7a
S -- SWEETER -- "Richer, fuller, deeper, Jesus' love is sweeter, Sweeter as the years go by."
G -- GREAT -- "Great is our Lord, and of great power: His understanding is infinite."
--Psalm 147:5
I -- I -- "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father. but by Me."
--John 14:6
V -- VICTORY -- "As Jehovah liveth, strength divine He giveth, unto those who know Him victory
all the time!"
I -- IF -- ". . . Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto Me and drink."
--John 7:37
N -- NO -- "No one ever cared for me like Jesus; There's no other Friend so kind as He. No one else
could take the sin and darkness from me; O how much He cared for me!"
G -- GLORIOUS -- "Glorious freedom! Wonderful freedom! No more in chains of sin I repine!
Jesus, the glorious Emancipator, now and forever He shall be mine."
Perhaps you would like to add something each day to your spelling of Thanksgiving. I doubt that our praises can ever find end!! God bless you!
Friday, November 10, 2017
Still Praising?
It is Friday, and I trust your heart is still filled with gladness and singing; with thanksgiving and praise; and with our Lord's wonderful truth that endureth to all generations!
As we look ahead to the Lord's Day, I think of this lovely little verse in Psalm 133:1 -- "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." Amen!
Psalm 122:1 says -- "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord." And Hebrews 10:24-25 instructs us:
"And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."
These verses remind us how thankful we should be for the family of God in our local church -- how blessed it is to love one another; to pray for one another; to encourage each other, and to walk together in sweet harmony and unity. May it be said of your local church and mine:
"Behold, how they love one another"!!
As we look ahead to the Lord's Day, I think of this lovely little verse in Psalm 133:1 -- "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." Amen!
Psalm 122:1 says -- "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord." And Hebrews 10:24-25 instructs us:
"And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."
These verses remind us how thankful we should be for the family of God in our local church -- how blessed it is to love one another; to pray for one another; to encourage each other, and to walk together in sweet harmony and unity. May it be said of your local church and mine:
"Behold, how they love one another"!!
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Praise God!
"Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost."
"Let's just praise the Lord -- praise the Lord! Let's just lift our hands toward heaven and praise the Lord"!
As I look out my big picture window toward the east this morning, I see the lovely sunshine and the beautiful heavens which declare the glory of God; the firmament which sheweth His handywork, and my heart fills with Thanksgiving and praise! It makes me want to fall on my knees and humbly sing:
"Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul! Thank you, Lord, for making me whole!
Thank you, Lord, for giving to me Thy great salvation so full and free"!
This is the month our nation observes a National Day of Thanksgiving. I trust that we will take a little time each day to reflect upon the many blessings we enjoy from the hand of our Heavenly Father.
Perhaps you would like to memorize this little Psalm of praise and thanksgiving and think upon it often as you prepare for your Thanksgiving holiday.
"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing.
Know ye that the Lord He is God; it is He that hath made us and not we ourselves: we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.
For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations."
--Psalm 100
Praise the Lord! It makes me want to sing again -- "Praise God from whom all blessings flow"!!
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost."
"Let's just praise the Lord -- praise the Lord! Let's just lift our hands toward heaven and praise the Lord"!
As I look out my big picture window toward the east this morning, I see the lovely sunshine and the beautiful heavens which declare the glory of God; the firmament which sheweth His handywork, and my heart fills with Thanksgiving and praise! It makes me want to fall on my knees and humbly sing:
"Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul! Thank you, Lord, for making me whole!
Thank you, Lord, for giving to me Thy great salvation so full and free"!
This is the month our nation observes a National Day of Thanksgiving. I trust that we will take a little time each day to reflect upon the many blessings we enjoy from the hand of our Heavenly Father.
Perhaps you would like to memorize this little Psalm of praise and thanksgiving and think upon it often as you prepare for your Thanksgiving holiday.
"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing.
Know ye that the Lord He is God; it is He that hath made us and not we ourselves: we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.
For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations."
--Psalm 100
Praise the Lord! It makes me want to sing again -- "Praise God from whom all blessings flow"!!
Monday, November 6, 2017
Weeping --
Today our nation is mourning the terrible tragedy in Sutherland Springs, Texas. As my heart is wrung with sadness for the grief-stricken people in this little Texas town, I struggled with what to post on my blog today, but I settled on these sweet and tender words in Micah 6:6-8.
"Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before Him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?
Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"
Dear Jesus, I love that last verse --help us who profess to know Thee, to walk so humbly with Thee that a watching world will know, beyond doubt, that we have met the Master and belong to Him!!.
"Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before Him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?
Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"
Dear Jesus, I love that last verse --help us who profess to know Thee, to walk so humbly with Thee that a watching world will know, beyond doubt, that we have met the Master and belong to Him!!.
Friday, November 3, 2017
THANKSGIVING!
I'm sure you are looking forward to spending Thanksgiving with family and friends, the Lord willing, but let's not wait until Thanksgiving Day to give thanks! Let's begin today to praise our wonderful Lord by meditating on the words of this beautiful song by Lelia Morris!
"O magnify the Lord with me, ye people of His choice.
Let all to whom He lendeth breath now in His name rejoice.
For love's blest revelation, for rest from condemnation,
For uttermost salvation, to Him give thanks!
O praise Him for His holiness, His wisdom, and His grace;
Sing praises for His precious blood which ransomed all our race.
In tenderness He sought us; from depths of sin He brought us;
The way of life then taught us, to Him give thanks!
Had I a thousand tongues to sing, the half could never be told
Of love so rich, so full and free; of blessings manifold;
Of grace that faileth never, peace flowing as a river
From God, the Glorious giver. To Him give thanks!
Let all the people praise Thee. Let all the people praise Thee.
Let all the people praise Thy name forever and forever more!"
Amen!! What a beautiful song! Let's fill our days with praise and thanksgiving throughout this blessed season!
"O magnify the Lord with me, ye people of His choice.
Let all to whom He lendeth breath now in His name rejoice.
For love's blest revelation, for rest from condemnation,
For uttermost salvation, to Him give thanks!
O praise Him for His holiness, His wisdom, and His grace;
Sing praises for His precious blood which ransomed all our race.
In tenderness He sought us; from depths of sin He brought us;
The way of life then taught us, to Him give thanks!
Had I a thousand tongues to sing, the half could never be told
Of love so rich, so full and free; of blessings manifold;
Of grace that faileth never, peace flowing as a river
From God, the Glorious giver. To Him give thanks!
Let all the people praise Thee. Let all the people praise Thee.
Let all the people praise Thy name forever and forever more!"
Amen!! What a beautiful song! Let's fill our days with praise and thanksgiving throughout this blessed season!
Wednesday, November 1, 2017
I Must Walk!
It is difficult to believe that today is November 1, It is also difficult to keep our minds from being in a constant whirl as we try to contemplate and grasp all that has transpired in these first 10 months of 2017!
In the midst of tribulations, trials, testings, and turbulence, what a wonderful comfort it is to have God's Holy Word and lean on His sweet promises for instruction and guidance! Proverbs 3:5-6 is one of my favorites:
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."
Let's keep walking with Jesus, and "when the devil comes knocking, let Jesus answer the door!"
In the midst of tribulations, trials, testings, and turbulence, what a wonderful comfort it is to have God's Holy Word and lean on His sweet promises for instruction and guidance! Proverbs 3:5-6 is one of my favorites:
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."
Let's keep walking with Jesus, and "when the devil comes knocking, let Jesus answer the door!"
Monday, October 30, 2017
Are You Happy?
This morning I found myself singing a little chorus I used to sing as a little girl -- "I'm so happy! I'm so happy! I'm so happy, happy, happy, happy, happy, happy, happy! I'm so happy! I'm so happy! For Jesus is a Friend of mine!" Praise the Lord!!
On this Monday morning, as we begin a new week, how wonderful and sweet it is to have a happy heart and be walking with Jesus! The Psalmist tells us in Psalm 144 -- "Happy is that people, whose God is the Lord." So if we belong to Jesus, let us not only be happy ourselves, but endeavor to bring happiness to others as we walk with the King this week!
On this Monday morning, as we begin a new week, how wonderful and sweet it is to have a happy heart and be walking with Jesus! The Psalmist tells us in Psalm 144 -- "Happy is that people, whose God is the Lord." So if we belong to Jesus, let us not only be happy ourselves, but endeavor to bring happiness to others as we walk with the King this week!
Friday, October 27, 2017
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Today is my youngest son's birthday! He, his two older brothers, my two grandsons, and my great grandson are all very special gifts from God! I am very proud of them and thank the Lord for each of them.
I have read this prayer by General Douglas MacArthur many times, and pray that the Lord can use my boys for His glory and the upbuilding of His kingdom!
"Build me a son, O Lord, who will be strong enough to know when he is weak, and brave enough to face himself when he is afraid; one who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat, and humble and gentle in victory.
Build me a son whose wishbone will not be where his backbone should be; a son who will know Thee---and that to know himself is the foundation stone of knowledge.
Lead him, I pray, not in the path of ease and comfort, but under the stress and spur of difficulties and challenge. Here, let him learn to stand up in the storm; here, let him learn compassion fror those who fail.
Build me a son whose heart will be clear, whose goal will be high; a son who will master himself before he seeks to master other men; one who will learn to laugh, yet never forget how to weep; one who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past.
And after all these things are his, add, I pray, enough of a sense of humor, so that he may always be serious, yet never take himself too seriously. Give him humility, so that he may always remember the simplicity of true greatness, the open mind of true wisdom, the meekness of true strength.
Then I, his father (mother), will dare to whisper, "I have not lived in vain." Amen!
I have read this prayer by General Douglas MacArthur many times, and pray that the Lord can use my boys for His glory and the upbuilding of His kingdom!
"Build me a son, O Lord, who will be strong enough to know when he is weak, and brave enough to face himself when he is afraid; one who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat, and humble and gentle in victory.
Build me a son whose wishbone will not be where his backbone should be; a son who will know Thee---and that to know himself is the foundation stone of knowledge.
Lead him, I pray, not in the path of ease and comfort, but under the stress and spur of difficulties and challenge. Here, let him learn to stand up in the storm; here, let him learn compassion fror those who fail.
Build me a son whose heart will be clear, whose goal will be high; a son who will master himself before he seeks to master other men; one who will learn to laugh, yet never forget how to weep; one who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past.
And after all these things are his, add, I pray, enough of a sense of humor, so that he may always be serious, yet never take himself too seriously. Give him humility, so that he may always remember the simplicity of true greatness, the open mind of true wisdom, the meekness of true strength.
Then I, his father (mother), will dare to whisper, "I have not lived in vain." Amen!
Wednesday, October 25, 2017
The Wilderness!
The 16th chapter of Genesis begins quite sadly, for we find Sarah deciding that she is going to "help" the Lord since she is still barren. (Do we sometimes forget that God doesn't need our help? His promise is true---He will not forget you)!
Sadly, Abraham hearkened to her voice -- and you know the rest of the story -- Sarah gave her maid, Hagar, to Abraham to be his wife; and when she conceived, her mistress was despised in her eyes. Then when Sarah dealt hardly with her, she fled to the wilderness where the angel of the Lord found her.
Yes, it was several thousand years ago that this incident in scripture occurred, but I think there have probably been a few times in all of our lives when we felt like doing what Hagar did that day---fleeing to the wilderness!
The storms of life come to all of us, and there are times when we hurt; when we are misunderstood; when we suffer loneliness; when we are mistreated; when no one seems to care -- but it is so comforting to remember that Jesus always knows right where we are, and delights in sending His angel to comfort us in all our distresses.
Take courage, dear friend! It doesn't matter where you have fled to -- it doesn't matter how deep in the wilderness of doubt, despondency, and despair you may be. There is hope! You can look up and say with Hagar in the wilderness -- "Thou, God, seest me"! And, remember, God knows what we have need of before we even tell Him all about it! Praise the Lord!
Has one of God's angels found you in the wilderness today? If so -- Don't Stay There!! God's wonderful grace is sufficient for life's severest circumstances!
Get out of the wilderness today and return to your place of service! Jesus will meet you there!
Sadly, Abraham hearkened to her voice -- and you know the rest of the story -- Sarah gave her maid, Hagar, to Abraham to be his wife; and when she conceived, her mistress was despised in her eyes. Then when Sarah dealt hardly with her, she fled to the wilderness where the angel of the Lord found her.
Yes, it was several thousand years ago that this incident in scripture occurred, but I think there have probably been a few times in all of our lives when we felt like doing what Hagar did that day---fleeing to the wilderness!
The storms of life come to all of us, and there are times when we hurt; when we are misunderstood; when we suffer loneliness; when we are mistreated; when no one seems to care -- but it is so comforting to remember that Jesus always knows right where we are, and delights in sending His angel to comfort us in all our distresses.
Take courage, dear friend! It doesn't matter where you have fled to -- it doesn't matter how deep in the wilderness of doubt, despondency, and despair you may be. There is hope! You can look up and say with Hagar in the wilderness -- "Thou, God, seest me"! And, remember, God knows what we have need of before we even tell Him all about it! Praise the Lord!
Has one of God's angels found you in the wilderness today? If so -- Don't Stay There!! God's wonderful grace is sufficient for life's severest circumstances!
Get out of the wilderness today and return to your place of service! Jesus will meet you there!
Monday, October 23, 2017
GIVING ALL!
Music is one of God's sweetest gifts to us, and across the years many beautiful songs have lodged in my mind. Quite often I will find myself singing a wonderful old hymn that blesses my heart and deepens my desire to make it to that beautiful city where they need no sun!
Our pastor is preaching a series of messages on Sanctification, and I am so thankful this blessed experience is still for us all today! From my heart, I like to sing -- "Nothing sweeter can be known than full surrender to the perfect will of God ----."
I was looking through the hymnal a few days ago and came across this old song, "Is Your All on the Altar" by Elisha Hoffman. I trust the words will speak to your heart.
"You have longed for sweet peace, and for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed.
But you cannot have rest or be perfectly blessed
Until all on the altar is laid.
Would you walk with the Lord, in the light of His Word,
And have peace and contentment always?
You must do His sweet will, to be free from all ill,
On the altar your all you must lay.
Oh, we never can know what the Lord will bestow
Of the blessings for which we have prayed
Till our body and soul He doth fully control,
And our all on the altar is laid.
Who can tell all the love He will send from above,
And how happy our hearts will be made;
Of the fellowship sweet we shall share at His feet,
When our all on the altar is laid!
Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?
Your heart does the Spirit control?
You can only be blessed, and have peace and sweet rest
As you yield Him your body and soul"
Dear friend -- Have you yielded all? ---- Nothing sweeter can be known!
Our pastor is preaching a series of messages on Sanctification, and I am so thankful this blessed experience is still for us all today! From my heart, I like to sing -- "Nothing sweeter can be known than full surrender to the perfect will of God ----."
I was looking through the hymnal a few days ago and came across this old song, "Is Your All on the Altar" by Elisha Hoffman. I trust the words will speak to your heart.
"You have longed for sweet peace, and for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed.
But you cannot have rest or be perfectly blessed
Until all on the altar is laid.
Would you walk with the Lord, in the light of His Word,
And have peace and contentment always?
You must do His sweet will, to be free from all ill,
On the altar your all you must lay.
Oh, we never can know what the Lord will bestow
Of the blessings for which we have prayed
Till our body and soul He doth fully control,
And our all on the altar is laid.
Who can tell all the love He will send from above,
And how happy our hearts will be made;
Of the fellowship sweet we shall share at His feet,
When our all on the altar is laid!
Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?
Your heart does the Spirit control?
You can only be blessed, and have peace and sweet rest
As you yield Him your body and soul"
Dear friend -- Have you yielded all? ---- Nothing sweeter can be known!
Friday, October 20, 2017
EBENEZER!
This word, Ebenezer, means, "Stone of Help", so we sing: "Here I raise my Ebenezer; hither by Thy help I'm come: And I hope, by Thy good pleasure, safely to arrive at home."
In I Samuel 4:1, we read:
"Now Israel went out against the Philistines to battle, and pitched beside Ebenezer, -- And the Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines."
In the 7th chapter, we again see the Philistines going up against Israel, "And the children of Israel said to Samuel: Cease not to cry unto the Lord our God for us, that He will save us out of the hand of the Philistines. -- And Samuel cried unto the Lord for Israel, and the Lord heard him! (Praise the Lord! He still hears today.) And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near, but the Lord thundered with a great thunder upon the Philistines, and they were smitten before Israel. Then Samuel took a stone and called the name of it Ebenezer, saying, 'Hitherto hath the Lord helped us'!
I like this little poem by Mabel Haldeman, simply titled -- 'Ebenezer'!
"Hitherto the Lord has helped us -- all our way with Him below:
And with courage -- on we journey -- in the face of every foe.
Hitherto the Lord has helped us -- over rugged mountain way;
Through the valleys dark and dreary, He has been our strength and stay.
Hitherto the Lord has helped us -- through the storm and through the calm;
Never has nor shall forsake us -- All our life has been a Psalm,
Hitherto the Lord has helped us -- Through the flood and through the flame;
Though our circumstances varied, He has always been the same!
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
He's the fairest of the fair;
He will keep us till we gather
At the meeting in the air!"
"Oh, to grace how great a debtor daily I'm constrained to be!
Let that grace now, like a fetter, bind my yielded heart to Thee.
Let me know Thee in Thy fullness; guide me by Thy mighty hand;
Till, transformed in Thine own image, in Thy presence I shall stand."
Amen!
In I Samuel 4:1, we read:
"Now Israel went out against the Philistines to battle, and pitched beside Ebenezer, -- And the Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines."
In the 7th chapter, we again see the Philistines going up against Israel, "And the children of Israel said to Samuel: Cease not to cry unto the Lord our God for us, that He will save us out of the hand of the Philistines. -- And Samuel cried unto the Lord for Israel, and the Lord heard him! (Praise the Lord! He still hears today.) And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near, but the Lord thundered with a great thunder upon the Philistines, and they were smitten before Israel. Then Samuel took a stone and called the name of it Ebenezer, saying, 'Hitherto hath the Lord helped us'!
I like this little poem by Mabel Haldeman, simply titled -- 'Ebenezer'!
"Hitherto the Lord has helped us -- all our way with Him below:
And with courage -- on we journey -- in the face of every foe.
Hitherto the Lord has helped us -- over rugged mountain way;
Through the valleys dark and dreary, He has been our strength and stay.
Hitherto the Lord has helped us -- through the storm and through the calm;
Never has nor shall forsake us -- All our life has been a Psalm,
Hitherto the Lord has helped us -- Through the flood and through the flame;
Though our circumstances varied, He has always been the same!
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
He's the fairest of the fair;
He will keep us till we gather
At the meeting in the air!"
"Oh, to grace how great a debtor daily I'm constrained to be!
Let that grace now, like a fetter, bind my yielded heart to Thee.
Let me know Thee in Thy fullness; guide me by Thy mighty hand;
Till, transformed in Thine own image, in Thy presence I shall stand."
Amen!
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Come and See!
In the first chapter of the gospel of John, in verse 35 we see John the Baptist talking with two of his disciples -- "And looking upon Jesus as He walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!
And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.
Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto Him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest Thou?
He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where He dwelt, and abode with Him that day: for it was about the tenth hour."
Just one night of abiding with Jesus changed their lives forever. Soon afterwards, Jesus extended to them another special invitation: "Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men."
Praise the Lord! What a thrill it must have been for these humble fishermen to leave their nets and follow the Master to become fishers of men!
Jesus gave so many sweet invitations to "Come" to Him. In Matthew 11:28, He said, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest," And just to make sure we understand, Jesus tell us, "Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out."
Jesus also gave some personal invitations! He spoke to Zacchaeus up in the sycamore tree and said, "Come down: for today I must abide at thy house."
Jesus spoke to His friend, Lazarus, when he was dead and bound in a tomb. When the Master cried, "Lazarus, come forth", not even the grave could prevent Lazarus from accepting his Master's call!
What a thrill it must have been for Lazarus to again look upon the face of his Master.
The final invitation of God's Word is in the last chapter of Revelation. "And the Spirit and the Bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely."
Perhaps you have received some gracious invitations requesting the honor of your presence at very special occasions, but you have never received an invitation to compare with this one! And you can be very certain that you are included, for "whosoever will" may come!
And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.
Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto Him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest Thou?
He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where He dwelt, and abode with Him that day: for it was about the tenth hour."
Just one night of abiding with Jesus changed their lives forever. Soon afterwards, Jesus extended to them another special invitation: "Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men."
Praise the Lord! What a thrill it must have been for these humble fishermen to leave their nets and follow the Master to become fishers of men!
Jesus gave so many sweet invitations to "Come" to Him. In Matthew 11:28, He said, "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest," And just to make sure we understand, Jesus tell us, "Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out."
Jesus also gave some personal invitations! He spoke to Zacchaeus up in the sycamore tree and said, "Come down: for today I must abide at thy house."
Jesus spoke to His friend, Lazarus, when he was dead and bound in a tomb. When the Master cried, "Lazarus, come forth", not even the grave could prevent Lazarus from accepting his Master's call!
What a thrill it must have been for Lazarus to again look upon the face of his Master.
The final invitation of God's Word is in the last chapter of Revelation. "And the Spirit and the Bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely."
Perhaps you have received some gracious invitations requesting the honor of your presence at very special occasions, but you have never received an invitation to compare with this one! And you can be very certain that you are included, for "whosoever will" may come!
Monday, October 16, 2017
Joseph & his Master!
In the 39th chapter of Genesis, we read: "And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand.
And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the Lord blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the Lord was upon all that he had in the house and in the field.
And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand: and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured."
Perhaps you are thinking that this is a rather strange scripture to use for a devotional thought, but when I read it recently, it grabbed my attention and caused me to do a little thinking.
Joseph's master was a man of high position with wealth and authority. He had many important duties and responsibilities, yet he so trusted Joseph that he put everything he had in Joseph's hand -- never doubting his ability to take care of every detail in the proper way!
Oh, what a lesson for us! Joseph was just a man -- a captive brought down to Egypt -- but his master trusted him implicitly! And to think that we sometimes seem afraid to trust our blessed Heavenly Father who sees all, knows all, and desires only the very best for us as His children!
However, we cannot be blessed and have peace and sweet rest unless we leave all--absolutely everything that we have in the hand of Jesus, and trust Him completely to guide us in the way He knows is best for us!
If you will do it, God will be with you as He was with Joseph, and you will experience the joy of trusting and following Jesus every moment of every day!
And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the Lord blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the Lord was upon all that he had in the house and in the field.
And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand: and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured."
Perhaps you are thinking that this is a rather strange scripture to use for a devotional thought, but when I read it recently, it grabbed my attention and caused me to do a little thinking.
Joseph's master was a man of high position with wealth and authority. He had many important duties and responsibilities, yet he so trusted Joseph that he put everything he had in Joseph's hand -- never doubting his ability to take care of every detail in the proper way!
Oh, what a lesson for us! Joseph was just a man -- a captive brought down to Egypt -- but his master trusted him implicitly! And to think that we sometimes seem afraid to trust our blessed Heavenly Father who sees all, knows all, and desires only the very best for us as His children!
However, we cannot be blessed and have peace and sweet rest unless we leave all--absolutely everything that we have in the hand of Jesus, and trust Him completely to guide us in the way He knows is best for us!
If you will do it, God will be with you as He was with Joseph, and you will experience the joy of trusting and following Jesus every moment of every day!
Friday, October 13, 2017
"CONSOLATION"!
I do not know what you have been through this week, but Jesus does--and He delights in reaching down His hand to help you through!
I trust this lovely poem, titled simply with one word by an unknown author -- "Consolation" -- will be a blessing and an encouragement to you as you prepare your heart for the coming Lord's Day if Jesus tarries.
"There is never a day so dreary but God can make it bright,
And unto the soul that trusts Him, He giveth songs in the night.
There is never a path so hidden but God can lead the way,
If we seek the Spirit's guidance and patiently wait and pray.
There is never a cross so heavy but the nail-scarred hands are there,
Outstretched in tender compassion, the burden to help us bear.
There is never a heart so broken but the Loving Lord can heal --
The heart that was pierced on Calvary doth still for His loved ones feel.
There is never a life so darkened, so hopeless and unblessed
But may be filled with the light of God and enter His promised rest.
There is never a sin or a sorrow, there is never a care or a loss--
But that we may bring it to Jesus and leave it at the foot of the Cross!"
Heartaches? Give them all to Jesus!
I trust this lovely poem, titled simply with one word by an unknown author -- "Consolation" -- will be a blessing and an encouragement to you as you prepare your heart for the coming Lord's Day if Jesus tarries.
"There is never a day so dreary but God can make it bright,
And unto the soul that trusts Him, He giveth songs in the night.
There is never a path so hidden but God can lead the way,
If we seek the Spirit's guidance and patiently wait and pray.
There is never a cross so heavy but the nail-scarred hands are there,
Outstretched in tender compassion, the burden to help us bear.
There is never a heart so broken but the Loving Lord can heal --
The heart that was pierced on Calvary doth still for His loved ones feel.
There is never a life so darkened, so hopeless and unblessed
But may be filled with the light of God and enter His promised rest.
There is never a sin or a sorrow, there is never a care or a loss--
But that we may bring it to Jesus and leave it at the foot of the Cross!"
Heartaches? Give them all to Jesus!
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Contentment -- Chaos
The Apostle Paul said in the wonderful little book of Philippians -- "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content."
It seems, that even for the great Apostle, contentment was not always automatic. Even Paul had to take a few courses in the School of Learning, but he didn't quit or give up along the way -- he didn't stop short of the victory!
He pursued in the course until he could say in Philippians 4:12-13:
"I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Praise the Lord!! What a wonderful testimony, and a great challenge for us to make sure we finish the course and graduate with honors from the School of Contentment!!
Today, sadly, our world seems to be filled with Chaos -- confusion and strife of every kind. Don't become a part of this School -- the Lord has some special blessings awaiting you in the School of Contentment!
If you have not yet enrolled -- do it today! You will Love this Wonderful School!!
It seems, that even for the great Apostle, contentment was not always automatic. Even Paul had to take a few courses in the School of Learning, but he didn't quit or give up along the way -- he didn't stop short of the victory!
He pursued in the course until he could say in Philippians 4:12-13:
"I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Praise the Lord!! What a wonderful testimony, and a great challenge for us to make sure we finish the course and graduate with honors from the School of Contentment!!
Today, sadly, our world seems to be filled with Chaos -- confusion and strife of every kind. Don't become a part of this School -- the Lord has some special blessings awaiting you in the School of Contentment!
If you have not yet enrolled -- do it today! You will Love this Wonderful School!!
Monday, October 9, 2017
Monday Morning Praises!
"I am blessed! I am blessed! Every day that I live I am blessed! When I wake up in the morning until I lay my head to rest -- I am blessed! I am blessed!" Praise the Lord! What a sweet reality to know that I belong to the King of the Ages and, along with the little tiny sparrow, He watches over me and never leaves me alone! I'm 'Living by Faith' and 'It is Glory just to walk with Him.'
And my heart overflows with thankfulness and praise when I remember that "Jesus is Still the Answer" for your every need today!
"Some men try so hard to prove that God's not really real,
While others say they know for sure His love you cannot feel;
But I know He's real within my soul, for one day He cleansed and made me whole;
And Jesus is still the answer for that longing deep in your soul.
Some men pretend that things of this world have brought them peace of mind,
But with the dawn of each new day, new thrills they try to find;
Not until they meet the Prince of Peace can they ever hope to find relief;
For Jesus is still the answer for a world that's seeking for peace.
Jesus is still the answer, and though time and ages roll,
Jesus is still the answer -- He's the answer for your soul;
And though some may say He doesn't fit with their philosophy,
I know Jesus is still the answer: He's always been and always will be!
--Lanny Wolfe
Will you 'Let Him Have His Way With Thee'?
And my heart overflows with thankfulness and praise when I remember that "Jesus is Still the Answer" for your every need today!
"Some men try so hard to prove that God's not really real,
While others say they know for sure His love you cannot feel;
But I know He's real within my soul, for one day He cleansed and made me whole;
And Jesus is still the answer for that longing deep in your soul.
Some men pretend that things of this world have brought them peace of mind,
But with the dawn of each new day, new thrills they try to find;
Not until they meet the Prince of Peace can they ever hope to find relief;
For Jesus is still the answer for a world that's seeking for peace.
Jesus is still the answer, and though time and ages roll,
Jesus is still the answer -- He's the answer for your soul;
And though some may say He doesn't fit with their philosophy,
I know Jesus is still the answer: He's always been and always will be!
--Lanny Wolfe
Will you 'Let Him Have His Way With Thee'?
Friday, October 6, 2017
A Rock -- A Shelter!
I want to share with you today part of an article I read by Mrs. Arnold Hodgin:
"We were in the wilds of Africa, headed for a mission station in Northern Rhodesia. The head missionary, Bro. Taylor and his wife, had been there many years laboring for souls.
Bro Taylor had killed many lions. He was fearless and bold, but just before our visit there, one of the lions was too strong for him. The lion had bothered the natives, and Bro. Taylor went out to kill it. Sadly, he was mauled to death -- brought in, bleeding and broken. With the help of missionaries and his dear wife, they tenderly cared for him, but soon he passed away and was buried in the little courtyard.
It was just about this time that we were headed for that station. We became lost in the jungle! We were in an old, broken-down car that would not go, getting stuck in the mud. We had to leave the car and try to find our way to the mission station. We did not know what direction to go and could not speak a word of the language. Ir was late at night. We had a flashlight, and we tried to find a path. We found that we were about five miles from the mission station. It was a hard journey. I nearly fainted when I heard the bark of a dog. I never was so glad to hear a dog bark as I was then, and I said to my husband --'That is the bark of a missionary's dog?'
'What makes you think it is a missionary's dog?'
'Well, he has a sort of satisfied bark. He is a white man's dog. A heathen man's dog has an angry, snarling bark. He never has enough to eat."
(Hmmm! I wonder about our 'bark' -- our speech and conversation! Is our speech filled with love and kindness, or do we have an angry 'bark'? Well, Jesus has plenty for us to eat -- just Come and Dine at the Master's table -- there's plenty of room for the family and plenty of love to go around!!)
Well, it was a missionary's dog, and soon through the darkness we saw a white fence. We knew we were nearing a mission station. We had walked five miles through the lion infested country.
The following day during morning prayers, the little widow who had laid her husband away in the mission yard told us to open the meeting with a hymn, and said: 'Let us all sing, A Mighty Fortress is our God; A Bulwark never failing.'
Truly -- our God is a mighty fortress; A Rock in a weary land, and a shelter in the time of storm!"
"We were in the wilds of Africa, headed for a mission station in Northern Rhodesia. The head missionary, Bro. Taylor and his wife, had been there many years laboring for souls.
Bro Taylor had killed many lions. He was fearless and bold, but just before our visit there, one of the lions was too strong for him. The lion had bothered the natives, and Bro. Taylor went out to kill it. Sadly, he was mauled to death -- brought in, bleeding and broken. With the help of missionaries and his dear wife, they tenderly cared for him, but soon he passed away and was buried in the little courtyard.
It was just about this time that we were headed for that station. We became lost in the jungle! We were in an old, broken-down car that would not go, getting stuck in the mud. We had to leave the car and try to find our way to the mission station. We did not know what direction to go and could not speak a word of the language. Ir was late at night. We had a flashlight, and we tried to find a path. We found that we were about five miles from the mission station. It was a hard journey. I nearly fainted when I heard the bark of a dog. I never was so glad to hear a dog bark as I was then, and I said to my husband --'That is the bark of a missionary's dog?'
'What makes you think it is a missionary's dog?'
'Well, he has a sort of satisfied bark. He is a white man's dog. A heathen man's dog has an angry, snarling bark. He never has enough to eat."
(Hmmm! I wonder about our 'bark' -- our speech and conversation! Is our speech filled with love and kindness, or do we have an angry 'bark'? Well, Jesus has plenty for us to eat -- just Come and Dine at the Master's table -- there's plenty of room for the family and plenty of love to go around!!)
Well, it was a missionary's dog, and soon through the darkness we saw a white fence. We knew we were nearing a mission station. We had walked five miles through the lion infested country.
The following day during morning prayers, the little widow who had laid her husband away in the mission yard told us to open the meeting with a hymn, and said: 'Let us all sing, A Mighty Fortress is our God; A Bulwark never failing.'
Truly -- our God is a mighty fortress; A Rock in a weary land, and a shelter in the time of storm!"
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
The Almighty God!
In Genesis 17:1, we read these wonderful words: "And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God: walk before Me, and be thou perfect."
I read in a little devotional booklet published by the Institute for Creation Research that this is the first of 48 occurrences of God by the term "Almighty" in the Old Testament! There are also nine times in the New Testament where God is called "Almighty", and once where He is called "omnipotent".
The last time it occurs is very near the end of the Bible, where it tells us that there is no special temple in the Holy City. Revelation 21:22 says: "And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it."
So we see that in the very first and the very last books of God's Holy Word, and often in between, we are reminded that our God is an omnipotent God. I love the wonderful verse in Jeremiah 32:17:
"Ah Lord God! behold, Thou hast made the heaven and the earth by Thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for Thee." (Praise the Lord)
Sarah "laughed" when God said that she would bear a son in her old age, but God answered her with these wonderful words: "Is anything too hard for the Lord"?
Many years later, the angel spoke similar words to the Virgin Mary concerning the birth of Jesus -- "With God nothing shall be impossible."
Maybe we can sum up our thoughts today in these words of the Lord to His prophet, Jeremiah:
"Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there anything too hard for me?"
I read in a little devotional booklet published by the Institute for Creation Research that this is the first of 48 occurrences of God by the term "Almighty" in the Old Testament! There are also nine times in the New Testament where God is called "Almighty", and once where He is called "omnipotent".
The last time it occurs is very near the end of the Bible, where it tells us that there is no special temple in the Holy City. Revelation 21:22 says: "And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it."
So we see that in the very first and the very last books of God's Holy Word, and often in between, we are reminded that our God is an omnipotent God. I love the wonderful verse in Jeremiah 32:17:
"Ah Lord God! behold, Thou hast made the heaven and the earth by Thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for Thee." (Praise the Lord)
Sarah "laughed" when God said that she would bear a son in her old age, but God answered her with these wonderful words: "Is anything too hard for the Lord"?
Many years later, the angel spoke similar words to the Virgin Mary concerning the birth of Jesus -- "With God nothing shall be impossible."
Maybe we can sum up our thoughts today in these words of the Lord to His prophet, Jeremiah:
"Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there anything too hard for me?"
Monday, October 2, 2017
The Ant!
Good Morning! I trust you awakened this morning with your heart full of Praise and Thanksgiving to our wonderful Lord! What a sweet and blessed privilege it is to be "A Child of the King"!
The book of Proverbs contains many wonderful little sayings concerning wisdom. In the 6th chapter, we find this interesting bit of instruction: "Go to the ant -- consider her ways, and be wise."
A story is related in "Cassell's Natural History" of a gentleman who laid a piece of sweetmeat on the table, and then picked up an ant and placed it on the sweetmeat. He was surprised to see the little creature go down by one of the legs of the table and seek his fellows. They appeared to have understood the news. He then at once turned back, followed by a long train of his fellow citizens and took them to the prize.
I believe there is a lesson that we can learn from the little ant in this story. If we know the sweetness of salvation -- if we have tasted and know that the Lord is good -- we will desire to share it with others! Let us ask the Lord to use us and make us a blessing to someone today!
The book of Proverbs contains many wonderful little sayings concerning wisdom. In the 6th chapter, we find this interesting bit of instruction: "Go to the ant -- consider her ways, and be wise."
A story is related in "Cassell's Natural History" of a gentleman who laid a piece of sweetmeat on the table, and then picked up an ant and placed it on the sweetmeat. He was surprised to see the little creature go down by one of the legs of the table and seek his fellows. They appeared to have understood the news. He then at once turned back, followed by a long train of his fellow citizens and took them to the prize.
I believe there is a lesson that we can learn from the little ant in this story. If we know the sweetness of salvation -- if we have tasted and know that the Lord is good -- we will desire to share it with others! Let us ask the Lord to use us and make us a blessing to someone today!
Friday, September 29, 2017
PLUMP GRAPES!
I really like this little quote from the writings of Oswald Chambers:
"If we believe in Jesus, it is not what we gain but what He pours through us that really counts. God's purpose is not simply to make us beautiful, plump grapes, but to make us grapes so that He may squeeze the sweetness out of us."
It is nice to see a big cluster of beautiful, plump grapes, but we don't enjoy any of their sweetness until they are squeezed and crushed so the delicious juice can flow out. -- Are we willing to be squeezed and crushed until the juices of God's sweetness and grace can flow out from us to bless others?
May we pray, and desire, along with the songwriter -- "Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me."
"If we believe in Jesus, it is not what we gain but what He pours through us that really counts. God's purpose is not simply to make us beautiful, plump grapes, but to make us grapes so that He may squeeze the sweetness out of us."
It is nice to see a big cluster of beautiful, plump grapes, but we don't enjoy any of their sweetness until they are squeezed and crushed so the delicious juice can flow out. -- Are we willing to be squeezed and crushed until the juices of God's sweetness and grace can flow out from us to bless others?
May we pray, and desire, along with the songwriter -- "Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me."
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Faithful Unto Death
In the first three chapters of the Book of Revelation, we find the Apostle John writing to the seven churches in Asia. The second message was to the church in Smyrna in a time of great persecutions.
God's Word says:
"And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive: I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of those which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: . . . be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."
This struggling and persecuted church is not mentioned anywhere else in the New Testament, but it was one of only two churches mentioned in the book of Revelation that did not receive any warning or condemnation.
Smyrna was poor, and troubled by those who hated God's message. They suffered tribulation, and some were even thrown into prison for their willingness to be identified with the truth. We want to pity this poor, struggling, persecuted church, but Jesus saw Smyrna as rich and worthy of a crown of life! He praised this little church, and encouraged them to remain "faithful unto death"!
As we walk with Jesus, we know not what lies ahead, but our tomorrows are all known to Him, and what a blessed privilege it is just to follow where He leads and pasture where He feeds!
I love the sweet verse in Psalm 39:14:
"For this God is our God for ever and ever: He will be our guide even unto death"!
God's Word says:
"And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write: These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive: I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of those which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: . . . be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."
This struggling and persecuted church is not mentioned anywhere else in the New Testament, but it was one of only two churches mentioned in the book of Revelation that did not receive any warning or condemnation.
Smyrna was poor, and troubled by those who hated God's message. They suffered tribulation, and some were even thrown into prison for their willingness to be identified with the truth. We want to pity this poor, struggling, persecuted church, but Jesus saw Smyrna as rich and worthy of a crown of life! He praised this little church, and encouraged them to remain "faithful unto death"!
As we walk with Jesus, we know not what lies ahead, but our tomorrows are all known to Him, and what a blessed privilege it is just to follow where He leads and pasture where He feeds!
I love the sweet verse in Psalm 39:14:
"For this God is our God for ever and ever: He will be our guide even unto death"!
Monday, September 25, 2017
REJOICE!
Philippians 4:4 says: "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice!" Philippians is one of my most favorite little books (4 chapters), and do you remember where the Apostle Paul is writing it from? That's right! -- his prison cell. He was Nero's prisoner, but he would show us in this little Epistle that Christian experience is not something that is going on around the believer, but something which is going on Within him! Praise the Lord!
He shows us that a right Christian experience is the outworking (whatever our circumstances may be) of the life and mind of Christ living in us. In this verse Paul commands us to rejoice, Then he tells us the way to Rejoice is in the Lord alway---in every circumstance and condition!
Let us look at a few other scriptures from the book of Psalms to help us see how the righteous rejoice!
"Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart." (32:11)
"Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright. (33:1)
""Let all those that seek Thee rejoice and be glad in Thee: let such as love Thy salvation say continually, The Lord be magnified." (40:16)
"My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto Thee; and my soul, which Thou hast redeemed." (71:23)
"Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness." (97:12)
Today is Monday. Let us plan to have a special week of rejoicing as we walk with Jesus --- every day---all the way!
He shows us that a right Christian experience is the outworking (whatever our circumstances may be) of the life and mind of Christ living in us. In this verse Paul commands us to rejoice, Then he tells us the way to Rejoice is in the Lord alway---in every circumstance and condition!
Let us look at a few other scriptures from the book of Psalms to help us see how the righteous rejoice!
"Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart." (32:11)
"Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright. (33:1)
""Let all those that seek Thee rejoice and be glad in Thee: let such as love Thy salvation say continually, The Lord be magnified." (40:16)
"My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto Thee; and my soul, which Thou hast redeemed." (71:23)
"Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness." (97:12)
Today is Monday. Let us plan to have a special week of rejoicing as we walk with Jesus --- every day---all the way!
Friday, September 22, 2017
"Not Again This Way.."
As I think today about the thousands of people across the world who are suffering greatly from the storms of life -- hurricanes, earthquakes, threats of war and many fears within and without, it is heartbreaking to think of their pain and anguish. I probably cannot do much in a tangible way for these hurting souls except to pray for those who are trying to minister to them.
But at this time in my life, where God has planted me, there is a work for me to do. I want to be faithful, and remember that "I Shall Not Pass Again This Way."
"I shall not pass again this way; I know not of tomorrow -- this is my day.
My yesterdays are gone -- forever passed away.
Their joys and sorrows that have been will never cross my life again,
For I shall not pass again this way.
I shall not pass again this way; my opportunity is for today,
To help another while I may.
Oh, may I lend a helping hand, and speak a kind word while I can,
For I shall not pass again this way.
I shall not pass again this way; May something I shall do or say
Help others on the heavenward way.
O Master, may I do Thy work, and never from my duty shirk,
For I shall not pass again this way."
--Mrs. O. M. Vermillion
"Only one life--it will soon be past; only what's done for Christ will last."
But at this time in my life, where God has planted me, there is a work for me to do. I want to be faithful, and remember that "I Shall Not Pass Again This Way."
"I shall not pass again this way; I know not of tomorrow -- this is my day.
My yesterdays are gone -- forever passed away.
Their joys and sorrows that have been will never cross my life again,
For I shall not pass again this way.
I shall not pass again this way; my opportunity is for today,
To help another while I may.
Oh, may I lend a helping hand, and speak a kind word while I can,
For I shall not pass again this way.
I shall not pass again this way; May something I shall do or say
Help others on the heavenward way.
O Master, may I do Thy work, and never from my duty shirk,
For I shall not pass again this way."
--Mrs. O. M. Vermillion
"Only one life--it will soon be past; only what's done for Christ will last."
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
COMPLAINERS!
Ouch!! Complaining is actually quite a loathsome and strange disease! It is strange because we don't seem to realize that we have it, and it is loathsome to those whom we converse with often! And---saddest of all, it displeases the Lord when we complain.
We read in the 11th chapter of Numbers: "And when the people complained, it displeased the Lord: and the Lord heard it:"
The Lord is not pleased when we complain about our circumstances. Perhaps we need to look back at the children of Israel. They seemed to easily forget all of God's marvelous blessings -- the many miracles He wrought in freeing them from slavery and providing all their needs through the wilderness journey! They seemed to be repeatedly complaining about one thing after another. In fact, the Apostle Paul tells us in the book of I Corinthians:
"But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. Now these things were our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted, . . . Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer."
In Philippians 2:14, we are admonished to "Do all things without murmurings and disputings." I think that means without Complaining! We can be confident that our Heavenly Father is allowing every difficulty for some good purpose.
Let's determine to be "Praisers" instead of "Complainers"!!
"I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth."
--Psalm 34:1
We read in the 11th chapter of Numbers: "And when the people complained, it displeased the Lord: and the Lord heard it:"
The Lord is not pleased when we complain about our circumstances. Perhaps we need to look back at the children of Israel. They seemed to easily forget all of God's marvelous blessings -- the many miracles He wrought in freeing them from slavery and providing all their needs through the wilderness journey! They seemed to be repeatedly complaining about one thing after another. In fact, the Apostle Paul tells us in the book of I Corinthians:
"But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. Now these things were our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted, . . . Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer."
In Philippians 2:14, we are admonished to "Do all things without murmurings and disputings." I think that means without Complaining! We can be confident that our Heavenly Father is allowing every difficulty for some good purpose.
Let's determine to be "Praisers" instead of "Complainers"!!
"I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth."
--Psalm 34:1
Monday, September 18, 2017
Using Our Faith!
In Romans 1:17, we read: ". . .The just shall live by faith." I read an interesting little acronym for the word "Use." Let us examine it a little bit.
U -- USE what you have. Moses had only a rod when God called him to deliver the children of Israel (Exodus 4). The Lord wants us to use what we already have in our possession. The widow of Zarephath gave her small amount of grain (I Kings 17). Daniel used his secular position (Daniel 6), and Esther used her beauty and bravery (Esther 4). God used each of these to help accomplish His purpose and will.
S -- START doing it! Nothing happens unless we get involved. The priests of Israel participated in the miracle at the Jordan river when they obeyed and stepped in the water (Joshua 3). The widow did not reap the bounty until she followed the prophet Elisha's instructions and borrowed vessels from her neighbors. (II Kings 4) The man who was born blind had to wash as instructed before he could see. (John 9) And those at Lazarus tomb had to roll away the stone before they could witness the miracle and hear Jesus say, "Lazarus, come forth!" (John 11) God instructs -- we obey -- and He performs!
E -- EXPECT it to happen! The centurion understood the Lord's authority when he asked Him to heal His servant. (Matthew 8) The Syrophonecian woman exercised great faith for her healing (Matthew 15), and the nobleman went home confident that his son had been saved (John 4).
Circumstances will vary, but God's "formula" does not! And remember --
"Without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him."
--Hebrews 11:6
U -- USE what you have. Moses had only a rod when God called him to deliver the children of Israel (Exodus 4). The Lord wants us to use what we already have in our possession. The widow of Zarephath gave her small amount of grain (I Kings 17). Daniel used his secular position (Daniel 6), and Esther used her beauty and bravery (Esther 4). God used each of these to help accomplish His purpose and will.
S -- START doing it! Nothing happens unless we get involved. The priests of Israel participated in the miracle at the Jordan river when they obeyed and stepped in the water (Joshua 3). The widow did not reap the bounty until she followed the prophet Elisha's instructions and borrowed vessels from her neighbors. (II Kings 4) The man who was born blind had to wash as instructed before he could see. (John 9) And those at Lazarus tomb had to roll away the stone before they could witness the miracle and hear Jesus say, "Lazarus, come forth!" (John 11) God instructs -- we obey -- and He performs!
E -- EXPECT it to happen! The centurion understood the Lord's authority when he asked Him to heal His servant. (Matthew 8) The Syrophonecian woman exercised great faith for her healing (Matthew 15), and the nobleman went home confident that his son had been saved (John 4).
Circumstances will vary, but God's "formula" does not! And remember --
"Without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him."
--Hebrews 11:6
Friday, September 15, 2017
God's Handiwork!!
It was so very beautiful and lovely driving through the countryside this morning! The fragrance of fall was inviting me to slow down and revel in the glory of God's majesty! Many of the trees seemed to be wanting me to notice them beginning to get all dressed up in their gorgeous fall colors! (Thank you, Heavenly Father for giving me eyes to see and enjoy all the beauty of the Fall season).
Then I looked up into the blue heavens and saw the fluffy, white clouds floating along as if they were big marshmallows tempting me to reach up, grab one, and pop it into my mouth!
I thought of the song, "What a Beautiful Day for the Lord to Come Again"! Yes, one day, perhaps sooner than we think, Jesus is coming! What a day that will be! The beauties of this Fall season will pale into insignificance when we think of the beauty of Heaven!! Let us keep looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith!
The Psalmist David said:
"Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in His holy place?
He that hath clean hands and a pure heart. . ."!
Then I looked up into the blue heavens and saw the fluffy, white clouds floating along as if they were big marshmallows tempting me to reach up, grab one, and pop it into my mouth!
I thought of the song, "What a Beautiful Day for the Lord to Come Again"! Yes, one day, perhaps sooner than we think, Jesus is coming! What a day that will be! The beauties of this Fall season will pale into insignificance when we think of the beauty of Heaven!! Let us keep looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith!
The Psalmist David said:
"Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in His holy place?
He that hath clean hands and a pure heart. . ."!
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
The Crucified Life!
The Apostle Paul said in Galatians 2:20:
"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me."
The story is told of a young Christian who asked an older Christian, "What does it mean to be crucified?" The mature believer replied that it means three things:
First, the man on the cross is facing only one direction.
Second, he is not going back.
Third, he has no further plans of his own.
The older Christian went on to explain --
First -- A crucified man is facing only one direction. Too many are divided in heart. They want heaven, but they are in love with the world. They are like Lot's wife; they are running one way, but they are facing another.
Second -- A crucified man is not going back. The man who is crucified with Christ is not going back to his old life. That is over with forever.
Third -- A crucified man has no plans of his own. He is not dreaming of a bigger house or a better car. He is finished with this life. Its chains are all broken, and its charms are all gone.
The songwriter said:
"O we never can know what the Lord will bestow of the blessings for which we have prayed
Till our body and soul He doth fully control, and our all on the altar is laid.
Who can tell all the love He will send from above, and how happy our hearts will be made;
Of the fellowship sweet we shall share at His feet, when our all on the altar is laid."
Praise the Lord!! In the words of the songwriter---(I have found, personally, that) "Nothing sweeter can be known than full surrender to the perfect will of God eternally! Like a bird that's found its nest, so my soul has found its rest in the center of the will of God!"
May God bless you, challenge you, deepen you, and encourage you as you walk humbly with Him!
"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me."
The story is told of a young Christian who asked an older Christian, "What does it mean to be crucified?" The mature believer replied that it means three things:
First, the man on the cross is facing only one direction.
Second, he is not going back.
Third, he has no further plans of his own.
The older Christian went on to explain --
First -- A crucified man is facing only one direction. Too many are divided in heart. They want heaven, but they are in love with the world. They are like Lot's wife; they are running one way, but they are facing another.
Second -- A crucified man is not going back. The man who is crucified with Christ is not going back to his old life. That is over with forever.
Third -- A crucified man has no plans of his own. He is not dreaming of a bigger house or a better car. He is finished with this life. Its chains are all broken, and its charms are all gone.
The songwriter said:
"O we never can know what the Lord will bestow of the blessings for which we have prayed
Till our body and soul He doth fully control, and our all on the altar is laid.
Who can tell all the love He will send from above, and how happy our hearts will be made;
Of the fellowship sweet we shall share at His feet, when our all on the altar is laid."
Praise the Lord!! In the words of the songwriter---(I have found, personally, that) "Nothing sweeter can be known than full surrender to the perfect will of God eternally! Like a bird that's found its nest, so my soul has found its rest in the center of the will of God!"
May God bless you, challenge you, deepen you, and encourage you as you walk humbly with Him!
Monday, September 11, 2017
FEAR NOT!
As I write this morning, thousands of people are experiencing fear. In recent days, many have lost everything of their material possessions through horrible hurricanes, fearful floods, forest fires, powerful earthquakes, etc.--and yet, the Psalmist said in Psalm 34:4:
"I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears."
What a sweet verse, and what a blessed comfort it is to know that Jesus can set us free from every fear! At least 19 times in the New Testament, we hear Jesus say "Fear not" or "Be not afraid"!
Get out your hymnal and read again the beautiful words of "How Firm A Foundation"!
"When through the deep waters I call thee to go,
The rivers of sorrow shall not overflow!
For I will be with thee, thy trials to bless--
And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress!"
Remember to --- "Bless the Lord at all times: keep His praise continually in thy mouth!"
"I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears."
What a sweet verse, and what a blessed comfort it is to know that Jesus can set us free from every fear! At least 19 times in the New Testament, we hear Jesus say "Fear not" or "Be not afraid"!
Get out your hymnal and read again the beautiful words of "How Firm A Foundation"!
"When through the deep waters I call thee to go,
The rivers of sorrow shall not overflow!
For I will be with thee, thy trials to bless--
And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress!"
Remember to --- "Bless the Lord at all times: keep His praise continually in thy mouth!"
Friday, September 8, 2017
LOVE - PRAISE - GIVE
These three blessed words begin three wonderful Psalms -- 116, 117, and 118. Let's look at them!
"I LOVE the Lord, because He hath heard my voice and my supplications." 116:1
"O PRAISE the Lord, all ye nations: praise Him, all ye people." 117:1
"O GIVE thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: because His mercy endureth for ever." 118:1
What a wonderful privilege it is to Love and Praise and Give! I trust that you will take some time to meditate in these three little Psalms this week-end so that the Lord can use you to help and comfort some hurting soul. God bless you!
"I LOVE the Lord, because He hath heard my voice and my supplications." 116:1
"O PRAISE the Lord, all ye nations: praise Him, all ye people." 117:1
"O GIVE thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: because His mercy endureth for ever." 118:1
What a wonderful privilege it is to Love and Praise and Give! I trust that you will take some time to meditate in these three little Psalms this week-end so that the Lord can use you to help and comfort some hurting soul. God bless you!
Wednesday, September 6, 2017
PRAYER!
A few weeks ago I found a sheet of typing paper, yellowed with age, on which I had evidently copied from an article on Prayer. At the top of the page where there should have been a title, there was only a date -- "1978".
"Prayer is the dynamic of all real progress in the work of kingdom building. Basically, prayer is communion with God and requires regular seasons of privacy. There is a time and place for public prayer, united prayer, and family prayer, but these can never be a substitute for private prayer! It is the neglect of the quiet time with God that marks the beginning of backsliding. The shut door, the open heart, the bended knee is the way to satisfying joy and effective service.
Beyond the seasons of daily devotion when you get alone to pray and read God's Holy Word, which the child of God must maintain at all costs, there is the necessity of further unhurried seasons of protracted prayer. Effective prayer demands time. It is costly, but richly rewarding. All the genuine movements of the Holy Spirit in mighty revival have been brought about by the persevering, protracted, prevailing prayer of a faithful and burdened few. Let Jesus show you the way to spend unhurried time in the presence of the Father.
Intercessory prayer demands the full powers of our bodies, minds and hearts. Cold, indifferent hearts cannot pray this kind of prayer. It can only be done by those whose hearts are aflame with love for God and weighted down with the burden of the tragedy of a perishing world. Passionate prayer engages in a battle with the powers of hell. Affection, emotion, desire, sorrow, and pain all combine in mighty intercession that overthrows demonic powers and confuses satanic plans, and wins great victories for God! It persists until the answer is assured. Only prayer with "groanings that cannot be uttered" can release the power of the Holy Spirit to change rebellious defiance to humble and willing obedience. Satan will try above all things to prevent us from passionate praying. He does not mind our plans, our work, our preaching, our teaching, our witnessing so long as there is no dynamic of the Holy Spirit in them (so very true)!! Prayer is the only way in which all our service can be electrified into life-giving, devil-defeating, world-conquering power!"
And now, 39 years later, our Lord is still looking for men and women who will follow Him into the Gethsemane of passionate, God-glorifying prayer. Can He count on you and me?
"Prayer is the dynamic of all real progress in the work of kingdom building. Basically, prayer is communion with God and requires regular seasons of privacy. There is a time and place for public prayer, united prayer, and family prayer, but these can never be a substitute for private prayer! It is the neglect of the quiet time with God that marks the beginning of backsliding. The shut door, the open heart, the bended knee is the way to satisfying joy and effective service.
Beyond the seasons of daily devotion when you get alone to pray and read God's Holy Word, which the child of God must maintain at all costs, there is the necessity of further unhurried seasons of protracted prayer. Effective prayer demands time. It is costly, but richly rewarding. All the genuine movements of the Holy Spirit in mighty revival have been brought about by the persevering, protracted, prevailing prayer of a faithful and burdened few. Let Jesus show you the way to spend unhurried time in the presence of the Father.
Intercessory prayer demands the full powers of our bodies, minds and hearts. Cold, indifferent hearts cannot pray this kind of prayer. It can only be done by those whose hearts are aflame with love for God and weighted down with the burden of the tragedy of a perishing world. Passionate prayer engages in a battle with the powers of hell. Affection, emotion, desire, sorrow, and pain all combine in mighty intercession that overthrows demonic powers and confuses satanic plans, and wins great victories for God! It persists until the answer is assured. Only prayer with "groanings that cannot be uttered" can release the power of the Holy Spirit to change rebellious defiance to humble and willing obedience. Satan will try above all things to prevent us from passionate praying. He does not mind our plans, our work, our preaching, our teaching, our witnessing so long as there is no dynamic of the Holy Spirit in them (so very true)!! Prayer is the only way in which all our service can be electrified into life-giving, devil-defeating, world-conquering power!"
And now, 39 years later, our Lord is still looking for men and women who will follow Him into the Gethsemane of passionate, God-glorifying prayer. Can He count on you and me?
Friday, September 1, 2017
The Garden!
What a sad day it was when Satan visited the Garden and started talking to Eve -- and sadder yet that she started conversing with him. Instead of fleeing from temptation, the Bible says in Genesis 3:6: "And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food; and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat."
Soon they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the Garden, and they hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God! So Sad! Sin separates us from God, and soon Adam heard God calling unto him -- "Where art thou"?
Is God seeking you today? "Return unto Me, and I will return unto you, saith the Lord of hosts!"
Leonard Ravenhill once said:
"If a million people smiled on me while I knew God was frowning on me, I wouldn't be happy. But if God smiled on me, while a million people frowned on me, I wouldn't be unhappy!"
"May Thy Spirit, Divine, own this being of mine! Not my will -- but Thy will -- be done, Lord, in me."
Soon they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the Garden, and they hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God! So Sad! Sin separates us from God, and soon Adam heard God calling unto him -- "Where art thou"?
Is God seeking you today? "Return unto Me, and I will return unto you, saith the Lord of hosts!"
Leonard Ravenhill once said:
"If a million people smiled on me while I knew God was frowning on me, I wouldn't be happy. But if God smiled on me, while a million people frowned on me, I wouldn't be unhappy!"
"May Thy Spirit, Divine, own this being of mine! Not my will -- but Thy will -- be done, Lord, in me."
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
The Psalms!
Perhaps the simplest description of the wonderful book of Psalms is that they were the inspired "prayer and praise" book of Israel. There are 150 spiritual songs and poems used by the church in all ages in worship and devotional exercises. The predominant themes are prayer and praise, but the Psalms cover a great variety of religious experiences. They are often called 'The Songs of David' because he was the author of many of them.
Psalm 119 is a marvelous Psalm! Every verse seems to be a 'mini-message'. This chapter contains many wonderful promises, commands, and challenges! I especially like verses 33-48.
Verses 33-35 each begin with a two word request:
v. 33 -- TEACH me
v. 34 -- GIVE me
v. 35 -- MAKE me
These three little requests mark the beginning of three lovely little verses. Let's see what they say:
"Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statues; and I shall keep it unto the end."
Give me understanding, and I shall keep Thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.
Make me to go in the path of Thy commandments; for therein do I delight". Praise the Lord!
In the next section, we find some more wonderful words:
v. 42 -- Trust
v. 43 -- Hoped
v. 44 -- Keep
v. 45 -- Seek
v. 46 -- Speak
v. 47 -- Delight
v. 48 -- Meditate
As we prepare our hearts for the mid-week prayer service, let us especially remember verses 47 and 48:
"And I will Delight myself in Thy commandments, which I have loved.
My hands also will I lift up unto Thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will Meditate in Thy statues." Amen!
Psalm 119 is a marvelous Psalm! Every verse seems to be a 'mini-message'. This chapter contains many wonderful promises, commands, and challenges! I especially like verses 33-48.
Verses 33-35 each begin with a two word request:
v. 33 -- TEACH me
v. 34 -- GIVE me
v. 35 -- MAKE me
These three little requests mark the beginning of three lovely little verses. Let's see what they say:
"Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statues; and I shall keep it unto the end."
Give me understanding, and I shall keep Thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.
Make me to go in the path of Thy commandments; for therein do I delight". Praise the Lord!
In the next section, we find some more wonderful words:
v. 42 -- Trust
v. 43 -- Hoped
v. 44 -- Keep
v. 45 -- Seek
v. 46 -- Speak
v. 47 -- Delight
v. 48 -- Meditate
As we prepare our hearts for the mid-week prayer service, let us especially remember verses 47 and 48:
"And I will Delight myself in Thy commandments, which I have loved.
My hands also will I lift up unto Thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will Meditate in Thy statues." Amen!
Monday, August 28, 2017
"MAJESTY"
Every Monday morning my heart is always full of praise and thanksgiving as I reflect upon the services and blessings of the previous Lord's Day. This morning I thought of the song entitled "Majesty" which led me to this beautiful thanksgiving and prayer of King David in the 29th chapter of I Chronicles, verses 11-13.
"Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; Thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and Thou art exalted as head above all.
Both riches and honour come of Thee, and Thou reignest over all; and in Thine hand is power and might; and in Thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.
Now therefore, our God, we thank Thee, and praise Thy glorious name."
". . . So exalt--lift up on high the name of Jesus. Magnify -- come glorify -- Christ Jesus the King! Majesty -- worship His majesty -- Jesus who died -- now glorified -- King of all Kings"!!
"Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; Thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and Thou art exalted as head above all.
Both riches and honour come of Thee, and Thou reignest over all; and in Thine hand is power and might; and in Thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.
Now therefore, our God, we thank Thee, and praise Thy glorious name."
". . . So exalt--lift up on high the name of Jesus. Magnify -- come glorify -- Christ Jesus the King! Majesty -- worship His majesty -- Jesus who died -- now glorified -- King of all Kings"!!
Friday, August 25, 2017
Seek First . . .
In the Sermon on the Mount, there are wonderful promises telling us of our Heavenly Father's care and provision! Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:25-34 that the cure for anxiety is complete trust in our Father's care! Verse 33 is a wonderful verse, and notice that the key word in this verse is "first".
"But seek ye FIRST the kingdom of God, and His righteousness: and all these things shall be added unto you."
I like this little quote from the writings of Oswald Chambers concerning this verse:
"Jesus is teaching that His disciple must make his relationship with God the
dominating focus of his life, and be cautiously carefree about everything else in comparison
with that.
The greatest concern of life is to place our relationship with God first, and everything
else second!"
May God bless you as you prepare your heart for the coming Lord's Day -- "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord."
"But seek ye FIRST the kingdom of God, and His righteousness: and all these things shall be added unto you."
I like this little quote from the writings of Oswald Chambers concerning this verse:
"Jesus is teaching that His disciple must make his relationship with God the
dominating focus of his life, and be cautiously carefree about everything else in comparison
with that.
The greatest concern of life is to place our relationship with God first, and everything
else second!"
May God bless you as you prepare your heart for the coming Lord's Day -- "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord."
Wednesday, August 23, 2017
August 23 ----
Do you remember what day it is, Papa dear? I doubt it!! You're probably engaged in another lengthy conversation with the Apostle Paul and don't even remember what an important day this is! But if you were still here, you would be the center of attraction today because it is your 80th birthday!! I'm sure the girls in the family would be having a grand celebration for you, and you would be having a great time watching the little ones so excited about blowing out 80 candles!!
We all miss you very much, but perhaps you are having a heavenly Angel Food cake for your 80th birthday today, and I know it would be even better than Kaylee, Angel and Brooke could make you!!
And perhaps one of the angels will take time to tell you all about the sweet and exciting things that have happened in the family since you've been gone!!
I miss you very much, sweet Papa, but I want you to know I have a deep, settled peace in my soul, and I am still trying to build the Ark according to God's perfect pattern for "Heaven Can't Be Far Away!"
"This is the old ship of Zion, and we're sailing for that city--
I see lights so brightly shining as we're moving toward that shore;
Sometimes I think I hear singing as saints are dreaming of that day--
It brings a thrill to my spirit, for Heaven can't be far away!
Oh, what a sight! What a reunion! as precious loved ones are reunited!
I see my mother----there's my father----they're rejoicing round the Throne!
All the angels are crying "Holy" as Gabriel's horn is about to play---
Oh, my steps are getting lighter, for Heaven can't be far away!
We can't be far from that City---I can see walls of Jasper!
Gates of Pearl are swinging open, leading to the streets of Gold!
Saints of every land are shouting, and Heaven's Choir has started singing!
This old body's feeling sweet release---Heaven Can't Be Far Away"!
Praise the Lord, sweet Papa!! Heaven can't be far away, and by God's wonderful grace, I intend to make it with the family in my hand.
We all miss you very much, but perhaps you are having a heavenly Angel Food cake for your 80th birthday today, and I know it would be even better than Kaylee, Angel and Brooke could make you!!
And perhaps one of the angels will take time to tell you all about the sweet and exciting things that have happened in the family since you've been gone!!
I miss you very much, sweet Papa, but I want you to know I have a deep, settled peace in my soul, and I am still trying to build the Ark according to God's perfect pattern for "Heaven Can't Be Far Away!"
"This is the old ship of Zion, and we're sailing for that city--
I see lights so brightly shining as we're moving toward that shore;
Sometimes I think I hear singing as saints are dreaming of that day--
It brings a thrill to my spirit, for Heaven can't be far away!
Oh, what a sight! What a reunion! as precious loved ones are reunited!
I see my mother----there's my father----they're rejoicing round the Throne!
All the angels are crying "Holy" as Gabriel's horn is about to play---
Oh, my steps are getting lighter, for Heaven can't be far away!
We can't be far from that City---I can see walls of Jasper!
Gates of Pearl are swinging open, leading to the streets of Gold!
Saints of every land are shouting, and Heaven's Choir has started singing!
This old body's feeling sweet release---Heaven Can't Be Far Away"!
Praise the Lord, sweet Papa!! Heaven can't be far away, and by God's wonderful grace, I intend to make it with the family in my hand.
Monday, August 21, 2017
Weeping --- Rejoicing!
If someone asked you or me to name the shortest verse in the Bible, we would probably quickly answer, "Jesus wept" (John 11:35). However, there is another verse that has only two words, and they are "Rejoice evermore"! This wonderful challenge is found in I Thessalonians 5:16. It is interesting to note how these two verses complement each other -- because "Jesus wept", we can "rejoice evermore"! Praise the Lord! I am so very thankful that Jesus was willing to die that you and I might live!
The contrast between suffering and rejoicing is found throughout the New Testament, and generally the suffering precedes the rejoicing. We first see this in the closing verses of the Beatitudes:
"Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you . . . for My sake.
Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven."
The last passage is found in the 19th chapter of Revelation when the sufferings of the saints are all past and Jesus comes to reign! A great multitude will be singing in heaven --"Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come"!
Then, we read in chapter 21 all about the glories of the new heaven and the new earth! And it says in verse 4: "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away". In that blessed and glorious day, the redeemed will, indeed, "Rejoice Evermore"!
So let us live our present lives "looking unto Jesus"; for as we love and serve our Master, we will find ourselves "rejoicing with joy unspeakable and full of glory"!
The contrast between suffering and rejoicing is found throughout the New Testament, and generally the suffering precedes the rejoicing. We first see this in the closing verses of the Beatitudes:
"Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you . . . for My sake.
Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven."
The last passage is found in the 19th chapter of Revelation when the sufferings of the saints are all past and Jesus comes to reign! A great multitude will be singing in heaven --"Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come"!
Then, we read in chapter 21 all about the glories of the new heaven and the new earth! And it says in verse 4: "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away". In that blessed and glorious day, the redeemed will, indeed, "Rejoice Evermore"!
So let us live our present lives "looking unto Jesus"; for as we love and serve our Master, we will find ourselves "rejoicing with joy unspeakable and full of glory"!
Friday, August 18, 2017
God's Sweet Promises!
God's Holy Word is filled with so many wonderful promises to bless and encourage us as we walk the road of life! I love these blessed words in the 13th chapter of Hebrews:
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."
When I try to contemplate the awful price Jesus paid to purchase my salvation on Calvary, it challenges me in the following words by an unknown author to Lean, Pray, Trust, and Love "A Little Bit More"!
"Are you discouraged and weary of the endless toil and care?
Do you feel that your burden is greater than you have the strength to bear?
'My strength is made perfect in weakness'---this thought comes to you over and over;
Now believe in the word of God's promise, and Lean just a little bit more.
Have you temptations and trials surrounding you day by day?
Your feet--do they sometimes stumble as you travel the rough, narrow way?
Be careful--oh, yes! and courageous--for often the lions will roar,
But gird on your armor more tightly, and Pray just a little bit more.
Has sorrow encompassed your pathway with all of its various darts?
And often you cross, as you travel, The Valley of Broken Hearts;
Your eyes--with tears oft are blinded--you scarcely can see on before.
Place your hand in the hand of the Master, and Trust just a little bit more.
Perhaps some grave error in judgment has shaken your faith in the good;
Or, you have been criticized harshly--your motives been misunderstood;
And you feel for a time so discouraged--your heart is wounded and sore--
But keep right on praying and trusting--and Love just a little bit more."
May God bless you as you keep on Leaning, Praying, Trusting and Loving--just a little bit more!!
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."
When I try to contemplate the awful price Jesus paid to purchase my salvation on Calvary, it challenges me in the following words by an unknown author to Lean, Pray, Trust, and Love "A Little Bit More"!
"Are you discouraged and weary of the endless toil and care?
Do you feel that your burden is greater than you have the strength to bear?
'My strength is made perfect in weakness'---this thought comes to you over and over;
Now believe in the word of God's promise, and Lean just a little bit more.
Have you temptations and trials surrounding you day by day?
Your feet--do they sometimes stumble as you travel the rough, narrow way?
Be careful--oh, yes! and courageous--for often the lions will roar,
But gird on your armor more tightly, and Pray just a little bit more.
Has sorrow encompassed your pathway with all of its various darts?
And often you cross, as you travel, The Valley of Broken Hearts;
Your eyes--with tears oft are blinded--you scarcely can see on before.
Place your hand in the hand of the Master, and Trust just a little bit more.
Perhaps some grave error in judgment has shaken your faith in the good;
Or, you have been criticized harshly--your motives been misunderstood;
And you feel for a time so discouraged--your heart is wounded and sore--
But keep right on praying and trusting--and Love just a little bit more."
May God bless you as you keep on Leaning, Praying, Trusting and Loving--just a little bit more!!
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