In Philippians 1:3-4, we read these lovely words: "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy." I chose this scripture for my Blog today because it is my daughter's birthday, and it is a joy to thank the Lord for many sweet remembrances of her through the past 40 plus years (I guess I better not say the exact number)!! :)
Best Wishes, Sissy, for a blessed birthday!
When we read carefully the Apostle Paul's letters to the different churches, it is interesting to see how often he was assuring them of his prayers. In I Thessalonians 1:2, he wrote: "We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers." Paul must have had a very long prayer list! To the Christians in Rome, he wrote in Romans 1:8 -- "I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world." Then he wrote his benediction in Romans 15:33 -- "Now the God of peace be with you all."
Paul ended his message to the Christians at Corinth with these words in II Corinthians 13:14 -- "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen." Peter and John also used this same expression in their writings. And then, finally, it is interesting to note that these are the very last words of the Bible --"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen."
How blessed it is to know that "You All" included you and me!
Friday, January 31, 2020
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
Are You Eating?
We are nearing the end of the first month of 2020! And no matter how busy we may be, we seem to find time to eat, even if it's only a quick drive-thru at McDonald's --- and I imagine that most of us have eaten until we were well filled and satisfied!
But then I thought about God's Holy Word -- have we taken time in the first month of this year to feed our souls on the wonderful words of Life, or are we starving spiritually ?
God's Word is such a blessed lamp for our feet and light for our path -- let us determine that we will not allow leanness to our souls because of neglecting to feed on God's Word! In fact, let's take time right now to feast our souls on these verses from the 139th Psalm.
"O Lord, Thou hast searched me, and known me.
Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, Thou understandest my thought afar off.
Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.
For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, Thou knowest it altogether.
Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid Thine hand upon me.
I will praise Thee: for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are Thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake I am still with Thee.
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
May God bless you as we take time to feed our souls from God's blessed and Holy Word!
But then I thought about God's Holy Word -- have we taken time in the first month of this year to feed our souls on the wonderful words of Life, or are we starving spiritually ?
God's Word is such a blessed lamp for our feet and light for our path -- let us determine that we will not allow leanness to our souls because of neglecting to feed on God's Word! In fact, let's take time right now to feast our souls on these verses from the 139th Psalm.
"O Lord, Thou hast searched me, and known me.
Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, Thou understandest my thought afar off.
Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.
For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, Thou knowest it altogether.
Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid Thine hand upon me.
I will praise Thee: for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are Thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake I am still with Thee.
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
May God bless you as we take time to feed our souls from God's blessed and Holy Word!
Monday, January 27, 2020
Hiding in Thee!
Yesterday was a blessed day in the house of the Lord, but today is Monday and we face again the burdens, difficulties, and cares of life that at times would seek to overwhelm us. How important it is for us to heed this blessed admonition from God's Holy Word -- "Be still, and know that I am God!"
Oswald Chambers has said:
"The busyness of things obscures our concentration on God. Let other things come and go as they will; let other people criticize us as they will; but never allow anything to obscure the life that "is hidden with Christ in God" (Colossians 3:3). Never let a hurried lifestyle disturb the relationship of abiding in Him."
The songwriter said:
"How oft in the conflict, when pressed by the foe,
I have fled to my Refuge and breathed out my woe!
How often, when trials like sea billows roll,
Have I hidden in Thee, O Thou Rock of my soul.
Hiding in Thee, hiding in Thee,
Thou blest Rock of Ages, I'm hiding in Thee!"
Oswald Chambers has said:
"The busyness of things obscures our concentration on God. Let other things come and go as they will; let other people criticize us as they will; but never allow anything to obscure the life that "is hidden with Christ in God" (Colossians 3:3). Never let a hurried lifestyle disturb the relationship of abiding in Him."
The songwriter said:
"How oft in the conflict, when pressed by the foe,
I have fled to my Refuge and breathed out my woe!
How often, when trials like sea billows roll,
Have I hidden in Thee, O Thou Rock of my soul.
Hiding in Thee, hiding in Thee,
Thou blest Rock of Ages, I'm hiding in Thee!"
Friday, January 24, 2020
Fought - Finished - Kept
In II Timothy 4:21-22, we read these words: "Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren. The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen." These are the final words of the Apostle Paul, written shortly before he was beheaded. We would have a tendency to pity him when we think about his great faithfulness and fruitfulness in the Lord's service, and now, despite all this, we see him penniless, lonely and cold! And yet, this faithful servant was not complaining! He says to Timothy:
"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Praise the Lord! What a great testimony!
He did, however, yearn to see Timothy, his beloved son in the faith, before he died. "Without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy." Then he makes this request of Timothy:
"The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments." Paul didn't even have a coat in the cold prison, and winter was approaching (do thy diligence to come before winter). And yet, even under such miserable circumstances, he wanted to keep reading and studying, endeavoring to prepare himself better for any future service the Lord might still have for him.
In spite of his present circumstances, he could say with great confidence --
"Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing." Praise the Lord!!
"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Praise the Lord! What a great testimony!
He did, however, yearn to see Timothy, his beloved son in the faith, before he died. "Without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy." Then he makes this request of Timothy:
"The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments." Paul didn't even have a coat in the cold prison, and winter was approaching (do thy diligence to come before winter). And yet, even under such miserable circumstances, he wanted to keep reading and studying, endeavoring to prepare himself better for any future service the Lord might still have for him.
In spite of his present circumstances, he could say with great confidence --
"Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing." Praise the Lord!!
Wednesday, January 22, 2020
O Happy Day!
We don't often hear this hymn by Philip Doddridge, but the words are a blessing to my heart and it lifts my spirit to remember that blessed and happy day when I met Jesus! I also enjoyed learning a little about the author, and trust his story will be a blessing to you today!
"Eighteen of Monica Doddridge's nineteen children died in infancy. When number twenty arrived on June 26, 1702, he, too, appeared stillborn. But while being laid aside, he cried out. Monica determined then and there to raise Philip for the Lord. As a young child, he sat on her knees at the fireplace where Monica taught her son the lessons of scripture.
He was later orphaned, and though he longed to be a minister, he was destitute. There seemed no way to afford the necessary education. Philip set apart a day for earnest prayer. While he was praying, the postman arrived with a letter from a wealthy benefactor offering to finance his training. It was such a timely answer that Philip resolved henceforth to live a life of prayer, and he trained himself to pray without ceasing, even while getting washed and dressed in the morning.
At age 27, Philip was asked to become the head of a seminary for ministerial students in Northampton, England. His health was frail, and he didn't think he was well enough for the new responsibilities; but while passing a house, he overheard a child reading Deuteronomy 33:25: "As thy days, so shall thy strength be." He took it as from God and accepted the call.
The reputation of Northampton Academy radiated through England, and students flocked there, in part, because of Philip's chapel sermons and his powerful prayer life. For 22 years, Philip trained students. By age 48, however, he was exhausted. Consumption struck his lungs, and he passed away on October 26, 1751. Today Philip is best remembered for his book, "The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul", and for his collection of nearly 400 hymns which was published after his death in 1755, and included "O Happy Day"!
"O happy day that fixed my choice on Thee, my Saviour and my God!
Well may this glowing heart rejoice, and tell its raptures all abroad.
O happy bond that seals my vows to Him who merits all my love!
Let cheerful anthems fill His house, while to that sacred shrine I move.
Tis done, the great transaction's done; I am my Lord's and He is mine.
He drew me and I followed on, charmed to confess the voice divine.
Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away!
He taught me how to watch and pray, and live rejoicing every day.
Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away"!
"Eighteen of Monica Doddridge's nineteen children died in infancy. When number twenty arrived on June 26, 1702, he, too, appeared stillborn. But while being laid aside, he cried out. Monica determined then and there to raise Philip for the Lord. As a young child, he sat on her knees at the fireplace where Monica taught her son the lessons of scripture.
He was later orphaned, and though he longed to be a minister, he was destitute. There seemed no way to afford the necessary education. Philip set apart a day for earnest prayer. While he was praying, the postman arrived with a letter from a wealthy benefactor offering to finance his training. It was such a timely answer that Philip resolved henceforth to live a life of prayer, and he trained himself to pray without ceasing, even while getting washed and dressed in the morning.
At age 27, Philip was asked to become the head of a seminary for ministerial students in Northampton, England. His health was frail, and he didn't think he was well enough for the new responsibilities; but while passing a house, he overheard a child reading Deuteronomy 33:25: "As thy days, so shall thy strength be." He took it as from God and accepted the call.
The reputation of Northampton Academy radiated through England, and students flocked there, in part, because of Philip's chapel sermons and his powerful prayer life. For 22 years, Philip trained students. By age 48, however, he was exhausted. Consumption struck his lungs, and he passed away on October 26, 1751. Today Philip is best remembered for his book, "The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul", and for his collection of nearly 400 hymns which was published after his death in 1755, and included "O Happy Day"!
"O happy day that fixed my choice on Thee, my Saviour and my God!
Well may this glowing heart rejoice, and tell its raptures all abroad.
O happy bond that seals my vows to Him who merits all my love!
Let cheerful anthems fill His house, while to that sacred shrine I move.
Tis done, the great transaction's done; I am my Lord's and He is mine.
He drew me and I followed on, charmed to confess the voice divine.
Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away!
He taught me how to watch and pray, and live rejoicing every day.
Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away"!
Monday, January 20, 2020
Joy ---- Fun
In Jeremiah 15:16, we read: "Thy words were found, and I did eat them, and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by Thy name, O Lord God of hosts."
It seems that many people today are always desiring or looking for fun and entertainment; but it is interesting to note that the word "fun" is never mentioned in the Bible, which would seem to indicate that it is not considered to be a very significant part of the Christian life.
However, it is wonderful to know that as Christians we have something far better than worldly fun -- we have heavenly joy! Praise the Lord! This is the blessed privilege of the Redeemed, and there are many ways this joy can be experienced.
First of all, Christian joy comes through God's Holy Word. Even "the weeping prophet", Jeremiah could say in the words of our text -- "Thy Word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart."
Then, it is wonderful to rejoice in God's great salvation -- "I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation." (Isaiah 61:10)
There is also great joy in the blessed privilege of prayer! John 16:24 says: "Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full."
In Psalm 126, we read this wonderful promise: "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him."
There are many more scriptures that tell us of this wonderful joy which is our strength! In I Peter, we read "in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory." I guess we could sum it up with these words from Philippians -- "Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice."
Do you have this "Joy Unspeakable" that B. E. Warren wrote about?
"I have found the pleasure I once craved; it is joy and peace within.
What a wondrous blessing! I am saved from the awful gulf of sin.
I have found the joy no tongue can tell. How its waves of glory roll!
It is like a great over-flowing well, springing up within my soul.
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory, full of glory, full of glory.
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory. Oh, the half has never yet been told."
And, by the way, as we begin a new week, perhaps it would be good for us to remember joy in this way also ---- J -- Jesus
O -- Others
Y -- You
It seems that many people today are always desiring or looking for fun and entertainment; but it is interesting to note that the word "fun" is never mentioned in the Bible, which would seem to indicate that it is not considered to be a very significant part of the Christian life.
However, it is wonderful to know that as Christians we have something far better than worldly fun -- we have heavenly joy! Praise the Lord! This is the blessed privilege of the Redeemed, and there are many ways this joy can be experienced.
First of all, Christian joy comes through God's Holy Word. Even "the weeping prophet", Jeremiah could say in the words of our text -- "Thy Word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart."
Then, it is wonderful to rejoice in God's great salvation -- "I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation." (Isaiah 61:10)
There is also great joy in the blessed privilege of prayer! John 16:24 says: "Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full."
In Psalm 126, we read this wonderful promise: "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him."
There are many more scriptures that tell us of this wonderful joy which is our strength! In I Peter, we read "in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory." I guess we could sum it up with these words from Philippians -- "Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice."
Do you have this "Joy Unspeakable" that B. E. Warren wrote about?
"I have found the pleasure I once craved; it is joy and peace within.
What a wondrous blessing! I am saved from the awful gulf of sin.
I have found the joy no tongue can tell. How its waves of glory roll!
It is like a great over-flowing well, springing up within my soul.
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory, full of glory, full of glory.
It is joy unspeakable and full of glory. Oh, the half has never yet been told."
And, by the way, as we begin a new week, perhaps it would be good for us to remember joy in this way also ---- J -- Jesus
O -- Others
Y -- You
Friday, January 17, 2020
God's Unchanging Hand!
In our world of change - confusion - chaos - calamities - concerns and the cares of life - is there anything that is constant and unchanging? I'm glad I can answer -- "Yes, Praise the Lord, there is!"
In Deuteronomy 32:3-4, we read:
"I will publish the name of the Lord: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He."
In Malachi 3:6, we read these wonderful words: "I am the Lord, I change not." And I love these words of assurance in Hebrews 13:8: "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever."
It is a joy to know that this old song by F. L. Eiland, written over 100 years ago, is at our command today; and still, in 2020, we can hold tight to God's Unchanging Hand!
"Time is filled with swift transition, naught of earth unmoved can stand --
Build your hopes on things eternal---Hold to God's unchanging hand!
Trust in Him who will not leave you, whatsoever years may bring --
If by earthly friends forsaken---Still more closely to Him cling!
Covet not this world's vain riches, that so rapidly decay --
Seek to gain the heavenly treasures---They will never pass away!
When your journey is completed, if to God you have been true,
Fair and bright the home in glory---Your enraptured soul will view!"
So -- just----
"Hold to God's unchanging hand! Hold to God's unchanging hand!
Build your hopes on things eternal! Hold to God's unchanging hand!
What a privilege to be led by the Master's Hand -- let us in the words of the Apostle Paul to Timothy:
"Follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life . . . . keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ." Amen!
In Deuteronomy 32:3-4, we read:
"I will publish the name of the Lord: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He."
In Malachi 3:6, we read these wonderful words: "I am the Lord, I change not." And I love these words of assurance in Hebrews 13:8: "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever."
It is a joy to know that this old song by F. L. Eiland, written over 100 years ago, is at our command today; and still, in 2020, we can hold tight to God's Unchanging Hand!
"Time is filled with swift transition, naught of earth unmoved can stand --
Build your hopes on things eternal---Hold to God's unchanging hand!
Trust in Him who will not leave you, whatsoever years may bring --
If by earthly friends forsaken---Still more closely to Him cling!
Covet not this world's vain riches, that so rapidly decay --
Seek to gain the heavenly treasures---They will never pass away!
When your journey is completed, if to God you have been true,
Fair and bright the home in glory---Your enraptured soul will view!"
So -- just----
"Hold to God's unchanging hand! Hold to God's unchanging hand!
Build your hopes on things eternal! Hold to God's unchanging hand!
What a privilege to be led by the Master's Hand -- let us in the words of the Apostle Paul to Timothy:
"Follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life . . . . keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ." Amen!
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
The Whole Armor!
I love this beautiful scripture in the 6th chapter of Ephesians! The Apostle is admonishing us that if we intend to stand against the wiles of the devil, we are going to have to put on the whole armor of God because we are not wrestling against flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, and spiritual wickedness in high places. So he tells us in verse 13 --
"Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." Then he goes on to clearly describe this armor in verses 14-18 --
"Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God:
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit . . ."
I think of another scripture that tells us without faith it is impossible to please God, so here we are told -- Above All -- take the shield of faith!! Then, it is interesting to note that there is no armor given for the back. This seems to indicate that as a Christian, we are "to stand" and never retreat! How wonderful it is that we have the offensive weapon of the Sword of the Spirit which is God's Holy Word! And, finally, we have the powerful weapon and blessed privilege of Prayer!
And for the "icing on the cake", the Apostle Paul tells us in II Corinthians 10:4 that the "weapons of our warfare" are "mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds."
In this first month of 2020, let us make sure that we have on the Whole armour of God -- "Not just a part or half of my heart---I will give All to Thee!"
"Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." Then he goes on to clearly describe this armor in verses 14-18 --
"Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God:
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit . . ."
I think of another scripture that tells us without faith it is impossible to please God, so here we are told -- Above All -- take the shield of faith!! Then, it is interesting to note that there is no armor given for the back. This seems to indicate that as a Christian, we are "to stand" and never retreat! How wonderful it is that we have the offensive weapon of the Sword of the Spirit which is God's Holy Word! And, finally, we have the powerful weapon and blessed privilege of Prayer!
And for the "icing on the cake", the Apostle Paul tells us in II Corinthians 10:4 that the "weapons of our warfare" are "mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds."
In this first month of 2020, let us make sure that we have on the Whole armour of God -- "Not just a part or half of my heart---I will give All to Thee!"
Monday, January 13, 2020
Rich - Young - Nameless
The rich young ruler had a conversation with the Master in the 18th chapter of Luke, verses 18-25. Annie Johnson Flint has written a poem about their conversation that day --
"We are not told his name -- this "rich young ruler who sought the Lord that day;
We only know that he had great possessions, and -- that he went away.
He went away from joy and peace and power; from love unguessed, untold;
From that eternal life that he was seeking, back to his paltry gold.
He went away; he kept his earthly treasure, but oh, at what a cost!
Afraid to take the cross and lose his riches -- and God and heaven were lost.
So for the tinsel bonds that held and drew him, what honor he let slip --
Comrade of John and Paul, and friend of Jesus -- what glorious fellowship!
For they who left their all to follow Jesus have found a deathless fame.
On His immortal scroll of saints and martyrs, God wrote each shining name.
We should have read his there -- the rich young ruler -- if he had stayed that day;
Nameless -- though Jesus loved Him -- ever nameless -- because He went away."
Where are you today? Have you, like this rich young ruler, gone away sorrowful? I trust that you will heed these beautiful words from a great hymn by Haldor Lillenas --
"Now is the time to receive Him;
Grant Him admission today.
Grieve Him no more, but open your door,
And turn Him no longer away."
"For the Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost."
"We are not told his name -- this "rich young ruler who sought the Lord that day;
We only know that he had great possessions, and -- that he went away.
He went away from joy and peace and power; from love unguessed, untold;
From that eternal life that he was seeking, back to his paltry gold.
He went away; he kept his earthly treasure, but oh, at what a cost!
Afraid to take the cross and lose his riches -- and God and heaven were lost.
So for the tinsel bonds that held and drew him, what honor he let slip --
Comrade of John and Paul, and friend of Jesus -- what glorious fellowship!
For they who left their all to follow Jesus have found a deathless fame.
On His immortal scroll of saints and martyrs, God wrote each shining name.
We should have read his there -- the rich young ruler -- if he had stayed that day;
Nameless -- though Jesus loved Him -- ever nameless -- because He went away."
Where are you today? Have you, like this rich young ruler, gone away sorrowful? I trust that you will heed these beautiful words from a great hymn by Haldor Lillenas --
"Now is the time to receive Him;
Grant Him admission today.
Grieve Him no more, but open your door,
And turn Him no longer away."
"For the Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost."
Friday, January 10, 2020
The Garden
I grew up on a farm, and my Mother always planted a large garden. I loved eating all the wonderful things from the garden, but I was never very excited about pulling the weeds!! But the world's first garden must have been a beautiful garden, for God, Himself, had planted it. In Genesis 2:8, we read:
"And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there He put the man whom He had formed." And God's Word says -- "every tree was pleasant to the sight"! There was also a lovely river "to water the garden", and best of all -- God was there!
The Lord God often walked in the garden in the cool of the day to fellowship with Adam and Eve. But one day God found that "Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden." What a sad day it was, for sin had entered and Adam and Eve had to be cast out -- leaving God alone in the garden.
Many years later, Jesus entered another garden with His disciples. It was the garden of Gethsemane. God's Word tells us He was "withdrawn from them about a stone's cast." The disciples soon fell asleep, and once again the Lord God was left alone in the garden. Here, in this garden, He faced the death He had pronounced long before in that first garden.
But there was yet another garden where He must be alone, for we read in John 19:41-42 -- "Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid. There laid they Jesus . . ." and I like these words that I read in a little devotional:
"God had walked alone in the first garden, seeking His own.
He knelt alone in the second garden, praying for His own.
He was buried alone in the third garden, having died for His own."
However, I am so thankful for the blessed reality of knowing that death could not hold him, and in the words of Robert Lowry:
"Up from the grave He arose, with a mighty triumph o'er His foes
He arose a victor from the dark domain, and He lives forever with His saints to reign!" Praise the Lord! May God bless you as we prepare our hearts for the coming Lord's Day!
"And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there He put the man whom He had formed." And God's Word says -- "every tree was pleasant to the sight"! There was also a lovely river "to water the garden", and best of all -- God was there!
The Lord God often walked in the garden in the cool of the day to fellowship with Adam and Eve. But one day God found that "Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden." What a sad day it was, for sin had entered and Adam and Eve had to be cast out -- leaving God alone in the garden.
Many years later, Jesus entered another garden with His disciples. It was the garden of Gethsemane. God's Word tells us He was "withdrawn from them about a stone's cast." The disciples soon fell asleep, and once again the Lord God was left alone in the garden. Here, in this garden, He faced the death He had pronounced long before in that first garden.
But there was yet another garden where He must be alone, for we read in John 19:41-42 -- "Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid. There laid they Jesus . . ." and I like these words that I read in a little devotional:
"God had walked alone in the first garden, seeking His own.
He knelt alone in the second garden, praying for His own.
He was buried alone in the third garden, having died for His own."
However, I am so thankful for the blessed reality of knowing that death could not hold him, and in the words of Robert Lowry:
"Up from the grave He arose, with a mighty triumph o'er His foes
He arose a victor from the dark domain, and He lives forever with His saints to reign!" Praise the Lord! May God bless you as we prepare our hearts for the coming Lord's Day!
Wednesday, January 8, 2020
Stand - Watch - Wait
In these beginning days of 2020, I think these are three important words for us to consider! Let's look at a few scriptures from God's Holy Word which help us to understand their importance!
STAND:
". . . stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God." (I Samuel 9:27)
"Stand in awe, and sin not:" (Psalm 4:4)
". . . Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls." (Jeremiah 6:16)
". . . stand faith in the faith, quit you like men, be strong." (I Corinthians 16:13)
"STAND fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1)
"Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (Ephesians 6:13)
". . . stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel." (Philippians 1:27)
WATCH:
"Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation." (Mark 14:38)
"But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer." (I Peter 4:7)
WAIT:
"Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and He shall save thee." (Proverbs 20:22)
"Our soul waiteth for the Lord: He is our help and our shield." (Psalm 33:20)
"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him. . ." (Psalm 37:7)
"I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in His word do I hope." (Psalm 130:5)
"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles: they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)
"For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside Thee, what He hath prepared for him that waiteth for Him." (Isaiah 64:4)
"The Lord is good unto them that wait for Him, to the soul that seeketh Him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord." (Lamentations 3:25-26)
". . . though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry." (Habakkuk 2:3)
"And I will wait upon the Lord. . ." (Isaiah 8:17)
"But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it." (Romans 8:25)
In our society today, I suppose the most difficult of these three commands is that little four-letter-word, WAIT! It seems that most people have great difficulty in waiting, but it is a very important word! Oswald Chambers said:
"When God brings a time of waiting, and appears to be unresponsive, don't fill it with busyness -- just wait! Never run before God gives you His direction. If you have the slightest doubt, then He is not guiding. Whenever there is doubt --- Wait!" So as we wait upon the Lord, let's make these words by W.O. Cushing our theme song for 2020!
"Down in the valley, or upon the mountain steep,
Close beside my Saviour would my soul ever keep.
He will lead me safely in the path that He has trod,
Up to where they gather on the hills of God.
Follow! Follow! I will follow Jesus!
Anywhere -- everywhere -- I will follow on!
Follow! Follow! I will follow Jesus!
Everywhere He leads me, I will follow on!"
STAND:
". . . stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God." (I Samuel 9:27)
"Stand in awe, and sin not:" (Psalm 4:4)
". . . Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls." (Jeremiah 6:16)
". . . stand faith in the faith, quit you like men, be strong." (I Corinthians 16:13)
"STAND fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1)
"Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (Ephesians 6:13)
". . . stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel." (Philippians 1:27)
WATCH:
"Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation." (Mark 14:38)
"But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer." (I Peter 4:7)
WAIT:
"Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and He shall save thee." (Proverbs 20:22)
"Our soul waiteth for the Lord: He is our help and our shield." (Psalm 33:20)
"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him. . ." (Psalm 37:7)
"I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in His word do I hope." (Psalm 130:5)
"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles: they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)
"For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside Thee, what He hath prepared for him that waiteth for Him." (Isaiah 64:4)
"The Lord is good unto them that wait for Him, to the soul that seeketh Him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord." (Lamentations 3:25-26)
". . . though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry." (Habakkuk 2:3)
"And I will wait upon the Lord. . ." (Isaiah 8:17)
"But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it." (Romans 8:25)
In our society today, I suppose the most difficult of these three commands is that little four-letter-word, WAIT! It seems that most people have great difficulty in waiting, but it is a very important word! Oswald Chambers said:
"When God brings a time of waiting, and appears to be unresponsive, don't fill it with busyness -- just wait! Never run before God gives you His direction. If you have the slightest doubt, then He is not guiding. Whenever there is doubt --- Wait!" So as we wait upon the Lord, let's make these words by W.O. Cushing our theme song for 2020!
"Down in the valley, or upon the mountain steep,
Close beside my Saviour would my soul ever keep.
He will lead me safely in the path that He has trod,
Up to where they gather on the hills of God.
Follow! Follow! I will follow Jesus!
Anywhere -- everywhere -- I will follow on!
Follow! Follow! I will follow Jesus!
Everywhere He leads me, I will follow on!"
Monday, January 6, 2020
Recipe for a New Year!
This morning I feel like saying with the Psalmist -- "Let everything that hath praise the Lord"! It was such a wonderful blessing to be in the house of the Lord yesterday on the very first Sunday of 2020! What a sweet comfort to know that in the midst of a changing world, my Lord never changes!! He is the Rock of Ages --the same Yesterday, Today, and Forever! So in this very first week of the New Year, I think this selected recipe would be a good one for us to use as we follow Jesus day by day!
"Take twelve fine, full grown months. Check to see that they are completely free of bitterness, rancor, jealousy and hate. Cleanse them thoroughly of any lingering traces of spite; pick off all specks of pettiness and littleness.
Cut each month into thirty or thirty-one equal parts, except for one of twenty-eight parts. This batch will keep for just one year. Do not attempt to make up the whole batch at one time. Prepare one day at a time, as follows: Into each day put --
12 parts of faith,
11 parts of patience,
10 parts of courage,
9 parts of work (some people omit this and so spoil the flavor of the rest),
8 parts of hope,
7 parts of fidelity,
6 parts of liberality,
5 parts of kindness,
4 parts of rest,
3 parts of prayer,
2 parts of meditation,
1 part of well-selected resolution.
Add a teaspoonful of good spirits, a dash of fun, and a heaping cupful of good humor.
Pour love into all. Let simmer in love, garnish with a few smiles and a sprig of joy. Serve with unselfishness and cheer, and a Happy New Year is a certainty!"
Praise the Lord!! "It is Glory Just to Walk With Him!"
"Take twelve fine, full grown months. Check to see that they are completely free of bitterness, rancor, jealousy and hate. Cleanse them thoroughly of any lingering traces of spite; pick off all specks of pettiness and littleness.
Cut each month into thirty or thirty-one equal parts, except for one of twenty-eight parts. This batch will keep for just one year. Do not attempt to make up the whole batch at one time. Prepare one day at a time, as follows: Into each day put --
12 parts of faith,
11 parts of patience,
10 parts of courage,
9 parts of work (some people omit this and so spoil the flavor of the rest),
8 parts of hope,
7 parts of fidelity,
6 parts of liberality,
5 parts of kindness,
4 parts of rest,
3 parts of prayer,
2 parts of meditation,
1 part of well-selected resolution.
Add a teaspoonful of good spirits, a dash of fun, and a heaping cupful of good humor.
Pour love into all. Let simmer in love, garnish with a few smiles and a sprig of joy. Serve with unselfishness and cheer, and a Happy New Year is a certainty!"
Praise the Lord!! "It is Glory Just to Walk With Him!"
Friday, January 3, 2020
Things To Remember!
It was such a blessing to be in the mid-week service at our church on New Year's Day! My heart was encouraged as we sang together, prayed together, and rejoiced together. In our Sunday School paper last Sunday, there were a few selected things to remember as we begin this New Year of 2020. Perhaps you would like to make a list, and refer to it frequently.
* That it pays to forget those things that are behind.
* That what I would do for the Lord must needs be done for others.
* That a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.
* That the way to find happiness is to forget self.
* That there is no lasting happiness in things.
* That a word once spoken can never be recalled.
* That no suffering is too great if it contributes to the building and nurture of Christian character.
* That to correct one fault in myself is greater than to correct ten in my neighbor.
* That yesterday is gone forever; tomorrow may never come; today only is mine.
* That time is too precious to be used other than for the glory of God.
* That to offer a cup of cold water in His name, or to help one discouraged soul, is a greater
contribution than to "speak with the tongues of men and of angels."
* That the glory of life is ------
To love, not to be loved;
To give, not to get;
To serve, not to be served.
* That nothing short of loving the Lord my God with all my heart, and my neighbor as myself,
will please Him!
Praise the Lord! As I begin this New Year of 2020, with its unknown tomorrows stretched out before me, this hymn by William Bathurst is the sincere prayer and desire of my heart --
"Oh, for a faith that will not shrink, though pressed by every foe,
That will not tremble on the brink of any earthly woe.
That will not murmur nor complain beneath the chastening rod,
But, in the hour of grief or pain, will lean upon its God.
A faith that shines more bright and clear when tempests rage without;
That when in danger knows no fear -- in darkness feels no doubt.
Lord, give us such a faith as this; and then, whatever may come,
We'll taste, even here, the hallowed bliss of an eternal home." Amen.
* That it pays to forget those things that are behind.
* That what I would do for the Lord must needs be done for others.
* That a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.
* That the way to find happiness is to forget self.
* That there is no lasting happiness in things.
* That a word once spoken can never be recalled.
* That no suffering is too great if it contributes to the building and nurture of Christian character.
* That to correct one fault in myself is greater than to correct ten in my neighbor.
* That yesterday is gone forever; tomorrow may never come; today only is mine.
* That time is too precious to be used other than for the glory of God.
* That to offer a cup of cold water in His name, or to help one discouraged soul, is a greater
contribution than to "speak with the tongues of men and of angels."
* That the glory of life is ------
To love, not to be loved;
To give, not to get;
To serve, not to be served.
* That nothing short of loving the Lord my God with all my heart, and my neighbor as myself,
will please Him!
Praise the Lord! As I begin this New Year of 2020, with its unknown tomorrows stretched out before me, this hymn by William Bathurst is the sincere prayer and desire of my heart --
"Oh, for a faith that will not shrink, though pressed by every foe,
That will not tremble on the brink of any earthly woe.
That will not murmur nor complain beneath the chastening rod,
But, in the hour of grief or pain, will lean upon its God.
A faith that shines more bright and clear when tempests rage without;
That when in danger knows no fear -- in darkness feels no doubt.
Lord, give us such a faith as this; and then, whatever may come,
We'll taste, even here, the hallowed bliss of an eternal home." Amen.
Wednesday, January 1, 2020
It's New Year's Day!
It's a New Year -- 2019 is behind us, and today is the very first day of 2020!
It's a New Decade -- It is amazing to recall the many changes that have taken place in the last 10 years in our families, our nation, our world -- some good and some so sad!
It's a New Beginning -- and I wonder ----
What are we going to do with it? Oswald Chambers admonished us to "Leave the broken, irreversible past in His hands, and step out into the invincible future with Him." What a wonderful challenge as we begin this New Year and new decade!
The Apostle Paul said in the wonderful book of Philippians, chapter 3, verses 13-14 -- "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
As we think about this New Year, I thought it would be good for us to turn our thoughts to the very first Psalm. We might think of this Psalm as an introduction to the entire book of Psalms, and it shows us the two ways; the way of the righteous and the way of the ungodly. Let us read it together!
"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in His law doth he meditate day and night.
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish."
"Dear Heavenly Father, as we enter this brand New Year, how we thank You for your blessed Holy Word which is such a wonderful lamp for our feet and light for our path! Help us, on this very first day of 2020, to settle it in our hearts that we are going to walk moment by moment in the way of the righteous, looking unto Jesus-- the author and finisher of our faith! In His Name we pray, Amen!"
It's a New Decade -- It is amazing to recall the many changes that have taken place in the last 10 years in our families, our nation, our world -- some good and some so sad!
It's a New Beginning -- and I wonder ----
What are we going to do with it? Oswald Chambers admonished us to "Leave the broken, irreversible past in His hands, and step out into the invincible future with Him." What a wonderful challenge as we begin this New Year and new decade!
The Apostle Paul said in the wonderful book of Philippians, chapter 3, verses 13-14 -- "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
As we think about this New Year, I thought it would be good for us to turn our thoughts to the very first Psalm. We might think of this Psalm as an introduction to the entire book of Psalms, and it shows us the two ways; the way of the righteous and the way of the ungodly. Let us read it together!
"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in His law doth he meditate day and night.
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish."
"Dear Heavenly Father, as we enter this brand New Year, how we thank You for your blessed Holy Word which is such a wonderful lamp for our feet and light for our path! Help us, on this very first day of 2020, to settle it in our hearts that we are going to walk moment by moment in the way of the righteous, looking unto Jesus-- the author and finisher of our faith! In His Name we pray, Amen!"
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