It is better to take refuge in the LORD
than to trust in humans.
(Psalm 118:8)

There was a time in my life where I would have had no understanding of this scripture.  To say that it's better to take refuge in something that I couldn't even see, as opposed to trusting a living, breathing, touchable entity, was beyond my logic.  I'm happy to say that I "get it" now and know that all the relationships in my life are enriched and more fulfilling if I put God first.

Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.
(John 4:6)

I sometimes forget that Jesus came to us in a human form, a form that felt fatigue, pain, and everything else that we experience.  I was pretty tired today and found this scripture comforting.  It makes my "tired" pale in comparison.  I can't even imagine traveling almost everywhere on foot.  And it says that it was about noon....the hottest time of the day.  I'm feeling less tired now and very grateful for a life full of luxuries that make my life so much easier than it was in Jesus' time.  And thank you, Jesus, for staying the course and enduring not only religious persecution, but obstacle after obstacle to simply live life in that era.  

The words of the reckless pierce like swords,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
(Proverbs 12:18)

You can never retract your words.....the damage is done in an instant and even an apology does not wipe out the memory of the words spoken.

May the words of God bring healing to both your body and your soul, today and everyday.  May His words speak to you in an intimate, personal way, bringing a refreshing healing that only God can provide.

But I am like an olive tree
flourishing in the house of God;
I trust in God’s unfailing love
for ever and ever.
(Psalm 52:8)

Or at least, we should be flourishing.  We often find ourselves forgetting that God's unfailing love is just that, unfailing.  I think it's hard for us to absorb this kind of love because our own love is only unfailing in certain circumstances with certain people.  We know that we can't compare any of our own attributes with God's attributes, but I think we do anyway.... after all we're only human.  Leave the reasoning behind and focus on the promises of God which are rock-solid.  Believe, trust, and relax in God's love. 

Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.
(Philippians 1:12)

Like everyone, my life has been full of tragedies and my life has been full of blessings. My life simply is what it is but the connecting thread that has kept me in one piece is my faith. That thread has been frazzled, frayed, and rewoven many times throughout my life, but all of the experiences in my life have given me "material" to present to others when they are going through similar circumstances. I'm now able to look back and see God's hand in even the most challenging events and realize that I actually learned many lessons from those difficult events and that there were many, many blessings hidden among the tears.

All the prophets testify about Him that everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name.”
(Acts 10:43)

It must have taken a lot of courage for Peter to tell his message to believers and non-believers alike.  Even today, with the Bible and all of the other resources available to me, I find it hard to believe that I don't have to earn forgiveness.  I certainly don't deserve it, so I feel like I must "do" something to receive it.  Peter's audience had to wonder what the catch was.  As unbelievable as it sounds, there is no catch.  Jesus took care of the catch.  I have to put logic behind me, put faith in front of me, and just believe.  That's one thing that I can do!

Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so.
(Genesis 1:11)

It's so amazing that God has provided so many naturally growing, edible foods for our nourishment and enjoyment.  I was able to taste test several fruits today that had been made into all-natural jams and jellies.  The assortment was never ending with combinations that sounded a bit strange but tasted delicious.  Thank you God, for thinking of absolutely everything when you created the world! 

After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.
(Acts 4:31)

Praying is such a wonderful way to recharge your spiritual batteries so that you can be bold instead of being meek and retreating from giving testimony.  Prayer really does empower you, giving you strength in all areas of your life. 

So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.
(Mathew 27:5)

Many people worship money more than God.  Seems odd, since it's all God's money anyway.  It never has a happy ending either, does it?  Money is temporary.  It helps us live an easier physical life but does nothing for eternal purposes.  Money easily becomes an idol in our lives and takes a number one position on our priority rung.  Just being aware of the power that money can have over us gives us the upper hand in keeping it in its proper perspective.   Turn to God for your strength and provisions and you won't be disappointed.  In fact, you will be greatly rewarded. 

You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety.
(Job 11:18)

No matter what direction my life takes, regardless of circumstances put before me, the hope of the Lord remains steadfast to calm and reassure me of my safety in His compassionate hands.

In peace I will lie down and sleep,
for you alone, LORD,
make me dwell in safety.
(Psalm 4:8)

This is one of those short and easy to memorize scriptures that provides comfort in tough times.  I think our mind focuses on our troubles more at bedtime and keeps us from relaxing and finding sleep.  Keep this scripture tucked away for troubled nights and it will help settle your mind and bring peace and rest. 

Without wood a fire goes out;
without a gossip a quarrel dies down.
(Proverbs 26:20)

Gossip spreads like wild fire and can be difficult to smother.  The best thing is to avoid fanning the flames and encouraging the slanderous words.

In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
(Ephesians 3:12)

I'm thankful that I live in a nation where not only am I free to approach God privately (after all, no one can control my thoughts), I'm free to worship God publicly, as well.  This is a blessed gift that I do not take for granted.

Do not let those gloat over me
who are my enemies without cause;
do not let those who hate me without reason
maliciously wink the eye. 
They do not speak peaceably,
but devise false accusations
against those who live quietly in the land.
(Psalm 35:19-20)

I live quietly in my neighborhood and get run over by those who don't.  Someday, God will tip the scales in my favor.

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
(Philippians 4:11-13)

I haven't reached this point yet, but the more I believe and the stronger my faith gets, the more often I experience this joy and contentment regardless of my situation in life.

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.  We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
(2 Corinthians 4:7-9)

We will not be crushed or destroyed.  Keep the faith......

I am a friend to all who fear you,
to all who follow your precepts.
(Psalm 119:63)

Although I have friends from all walks of life, my deepest bonds are with my Christian friends.  We share the foundation of Christ and with that foundation firmly in place, it's natural to build relationships to a deeper, richer level. 

Hear my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
(Psalm 5:2)

My Awesome God will hear every cry and every prayer that I utter.  He may or may not answer it according to my agenda, but He will answer me according to His will.  In that, I will place my trust.

The eyes of the arrogant will be humbled
and human pride brought low;
the LORD alone will be exalted in that day.
(Isaiah 2:11)

Every good thing that I accomplish is not of my own doing..... it's a gift from God and should be performed to glorify God, not to gain a selfish pat on the back.  

Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
(Exodus 20:8)

I find myself being confused as to what is an acceptable activity on Sunday and what is unacceptable.  Recently, I read a quote from a commentary that Sunday should be "a welcomed rest in remembrance of God."  This gave me a little clarification about using Sundays for God honoring purposes.  I'm realistic enough to know that I'm not going to spend the entire day reading my Bible and/or praying.  That would certainly be God-honoring, but not practical for my personality and my nature.  I can make the effort not to shop, not to mow the yard, and not do those other chores that can be done on another day of the week. 
I'm going to quit over analyzing proper Sunday activities and just enjoy the day that God has blessed me with by honoring Him (as much as possible) with my thoughts and actions.....simple as that.

Lazy hands make for poverty,
but diligent hands bring wealth.
(Proverbs 10:4)

I'm having a lazy Saturday afternoon, in spite of a "to do" list that is a mile long.  Just looking up "lazy" scriptures has motivated me to post this and get moving!  I'm not trying to become wealthy in a monetary sense....I'm just trying to keep my humble home and yard in a respectable state of being.  This takes serious, regular efforts, but the efforts bring immediate, pleasing results.  God has made me shepherd of all that He has blessed me with and it's my responsibility to take care of things in a manner that shows my gratefulness.
I'm out of here........

Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?”
(Job 2:10)

I think I could write volumes of comments on this scripture, but basically, it's pretty simple.  God does not promise an easy life to anyone.  Smooth sailing is not part of His plan.  We will, at some point, have illnesses, mental and physical pain, loss of loved ones, and many other difficult, if not, horrible circumstances.  What He does promise is to love, help, and support us through all of these troubles. 

“Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
(Mark 9:37)

Welcome the little children......After reading Heaven Is For Real, I have a better understanding of the open, innocent perspective that comes from a young mind that is not yet calloused and bent out of shape from worldly influences.  It's refreshing!

You will surely forget your trouble,
recalling it only as waters gone by.
Life will be brighter than noonday,
and darkness will become like morning.
(Job 11:16-17)

How wonderful to think that one day all of my troubles will be forgotten.....they will diminish and be replaced with bright, joyful days surrounded by God's love and grace.

When I said, “My foot is slipping,”
your unfailing love, LORD, supported me.
(Psalm 94:18)

I slip often....I slip spiritually, I slip physically.  Through it all, if I reach out to God, He hears my cry and helps to set my paths straight and even.

Isaac said, “I am now an old man and don’t know the day of my death.
(Genesis 27:2)

None of us know the day of our death and many never get to reach the days of old.  The obituaries are full of young people who didn't know that the day of their death would arrive so early in their lives.  God knows the exact day and minute of our death and gives us every chance to be spiritually prepared for that day.  Am I prepared....are you?

What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?
(Matthew 16:26)

This was one of the scriptures from the sermon this morning.  We were asked "what is your one thing," meaning what is your uppermost priority, the one thing that you value most.  Am I holding material possessions as my "one thing".....my relationships and friendships with others as my "one thing".... my family as my "one thing?"  Point being, it's all worthless in comparison to the "one thing" we have in God.

There are certainly times when my priorities are out of whack, but mostly, as I mature spiritually, God tops my list.  This helps me to put all of the other "one things" in their proper perspective, which makes me richer than I ever thought was possible! 

We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.  We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
(1 Thessalonians 1:2-3)

This is for Patti, who continues to inspire me with her gentle, giving, loving soul.

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.
(Hebrews 10:36)

Whether we think we are making any headway or not, the Lord knows if we are making a serious attempt to walk in the right direction according to His will.  He will keep His promises if we persevere and do our part.  You can count on it! 

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,  not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
(Philippians 2:3-4)

As wonderful as it may seem to help others, the Lord asks that it be done with humility, not for the pat on the back or the kudos for our pride.  We sometimes find it hard to keep good works anonymous, but when possible, that is a very pleasing way to serve God.  Many times, it's simply impossible to be anonymous in your efforts.  Just make sure your motive is pure and God will be delighted with your service.

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes.  Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.
(1 Peter 3:3-4)

What is beauty?  We live in a world that awards value and status to outward beauty and youth.  This saddens me.  I pray that I always look deeply into the heart of others, where their true beauty lies, and I hope that others offer me that same courtesy. 

“‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be Your name,
Your kingdom come,
Your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.’
(Matthew 9-13)

This is the prayer that we have all recited so many times that we have it memorized.  This is the prayer that I turn to in both good times and bad times.  It's my "go to" prayer.  Besides containing the most beautiful words, it brings back memories of comfort that have served me well throughout my life. 

But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults.
(Psalm 19:12)

Sometimes pride gets in the way of honestly assessing my own behavior.  Maybe I just don't want to acknowledge or admit a particular fault.  With the help of the Lord's Word, I'm discovering traits that I never even considered to be faults.....   It's good that I'm learning to change certain behaviors and I'm grateful that God is willing to forgive those faults.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
(Joshua 1:9)

Although God was speaking to Joshua, He is also speaking to us, to everyone.  He is commanding us......commanding us..... to be strong and courageous.  If our faith is true, we will not fear or worry because we trust that everything is in God's hands and He will take care of things according to His will.  I struggle with this.  I do still worry....I do still fear.....I do still get discouraged.  I will say, that although I continue to have these doubtful traits, as I grow in my faith and trust in God, these traits are slowly diminishing.  And I'm thankful that my God is a patient God.....

 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
(1 Peter 5:8)

The devil may not appear in the literal form of a lion in my daily life, but he has the ability to hide behind many facades, wearing many disguises.  If I protect myself with the armour of God's Word, the devil will not be able to devour me with his schemes and plots.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.
(Proverbs 3:5-6)

This morning, a young man at the checkout said "thanks for the inspiration."  I had no clue what he was talking about and then he pointed to the cover of my checkbook, which has the above scripture written on it.  You just never know when or where you'll have the opportunity to inspire someone with the Word of God.  I certainly wasn't trying to spread anything around but my money and for what ever reason, God wanted that young man to read this scripture today.  I'm humbled that He used me as a vessel! 

When I said, “My foot is slipping,”
your unfailing love, LORD, supported me.
(Psalm 94:18)

I slip a lot, both physically and spiritually.  I get off the path, I wander, I loose my way.  Isn't it wonderful to hold on to the word "unfailing?"  God gives us unfailing love and support every minute of every day and all we have to to is reach out to Him.  He's ready to pick us up, dust us off, and put us back on track.  Thank you, God, for never failing me!

Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name;
worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.
(Psalm 29:2)

I just thought that this was a beautiful scripture, and one that gave me pause for thought.  Do I give God the glory?  After all, I'm nothing and can do nothing, without Him. 

Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them.
(Mark 4:15)

Our first day of an online Bible study started off a little bumpy.  Computer glitches, that kind of thing.  I don't know if Satan was trying to sabotage our study or not, but what I do know is that the attempts failed, and we were able to study God's word.  Satan did not take the Word away from us!

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.
(2 Timothy 4:2)

Be prepared....this applies to scripture as well as any aspect of our lives.  If we are prepared, we increase our odds for success in every endeavor.  Preparation is key when speaking God's Word.  The Holy Spirit will help guide our words, but it is still up to us to prepare by reading and studying the Bible.  Although this preparation takes a little discipline, the rewards are priceless. 

Whoever spares the rod hates their children,
but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.
(Proverbs 12:24)

It was a little difficult to concentrate on the sermon this morning due to "distractions."  I think parents want to befriend their children instead of giving them boundaries and rules. This certainly doesn't help them to mature into thoughtful, responsible adults.  The day will come when you can befriend your child and not have to be the disciplinarian.  Until then, be a parent and teach them to conduct themselves properly.  Your efforts will not go unrewarded.

“As long as the earth endures, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”
(Genesis 8:22)

Although there are good and bad points about every season, God has promised to keep them under His control and safety.  I'm not fond of heat, but I know there is always relief on the horizon, both here on earth and in Heaven ever after. 

Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.
(John 4:6)

Because Jesus came to us in human form, He fully understands every physical condition that we experience.  When I'm just beat and need a boost, I remind myself that Jesus tackled more physical challenges than I'll ever face and accepted them with grace and dignity. 

Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you;
therefore he will rise up to show you compassion.
For the LORD is a God of justice.
Blessed are all who wait for him!
(Isaiah 30:18)

I found this scripture last night and made a copy to hold in my hand today.....

I spent the morning in a courtroom, trying to be supportive as my friends addressed the young man that murdered their son.  It was heartwrenching.  I knew that it was going to be really rough on everyone involved and I also knew that our earthly justice was not going to be fair.  It wasn't.  By holding on to the Isaiah scripture, I had the faith and confidence to know that this young man will get the justice that he deserves when he stands before the God of all creation.  It gave me such a sense of peace, knowing that God had this all in His hands and would take care of the whole situation....it isn't for me, the families, or even the courtroom judge to make the final call.  That call belongs to God. 

Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.
(Romans 15:2)

My neighbors have been a source of distress for most of the years that I have lived in my house.  In thirteen years, I have had about twelve months of peace in my home.  In spite of this, with each new neighbor that arrives, I'm trying to start off with a fresh slate, a fresh attitude, and not carry the wounds from neighbors past.  

This is easier said than done, but I know it's the behavior that would be pleasing to God.  With God's help and support, that's just what I'm going to do!

Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
(Psalm 25:5)

The more I study the Bible, the more I learn and the more hopeful my life becomes.  The Bible is the ultimate source of truth and I need to open my heart and my mind to listen to God, while putting my own "truth" behind me.  The only real truth is God's truth!

They charge like warriors;
they scale walls like soldiers.
They all march in line,
not swerving from their course.

(Joel 2:7) 

God Bless America!

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
(2 Timothy 4:7)

Indy 500 today....fast cars...fast race.....but only one winner.  I'm thankful that I'm a winner too, and it doesn't depend on my skills, or for that matter, anything else that requires special talents or good works.  I'm a winner simply because I believe, and for that, I'm humbled and grateful.

“Teach me, and I will be quiet;
show me where I have been wrong.
(Job 6:24)

I think of myself as being a quiet person, but that really only applies to an outward trait.  Inside my quiet personality is a mind racing at a mile a minute, not necessarily listening to anyone or anything except my own agenda. 

God wants me to quiet my mind in order for Him to be able to  teach me what He wants and needs me to know.  I must work on quieting my thoughts so that I'm able to receive God's will for me and that takes practice and a conscious effort to still my mind.  

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.
(2 Corinthians 9:12)

We never really retire, do we?  Moses surely didn't!  We continue to serve in ways that are pleasing to God.  The little things that we do to serve are just as important as the bigger, life changing ways of serving.  The point is to be of service to all people, believers and non-believers, and give back to the One who served us all, Jesus Christ.  

Frustration is better than laughter,
because a sad face is good for the heart.
(Ecclesiastes 7:3)

This is kind of an odd scripture today, but I found myself very frustrated today for several different reasons.  Once the situations resolved themselves, I was much more appreciative of how nice it is when things go smoothly.  It was a good learning experience.....and a good lesson in patience.

So this is what the Sovereign LORD says:
“See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone,
a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation;
the one who relies on it
will never be stricken with panic.
(Isaiah 28:16)

As I watch the devastation of lives lost and homes destroyed by the tornados, I'm praying that the victims will rely on the only foundation that cannot be shaken, that of our Lord and Savior, as they grieve their losses and begin rebuilding their lives. 

Can you bring forth the constellations in their seasons
or lead out the Bear with its cubs?
Do you know the laws of the heavens?
Can you set up God’s dominion over the earth?

(Job 38:32-33)

 

My day was filled with the miracles of God's amazing creatures.  I was humbled to be able to observe three baby robins, mouths wide open, waiting for mama robin to bring dinner.  I also met a lost snapping turtle that will be returned to the river tonight.  He was crossing the road and as slow as he was creeping along, his chances of reaching the other side were slim.  Some people would look at a leathery, craggled turtle as not-so-pretty, but I just see the amazing, perfect creature that God created. 

 

God's creativity, especially when it comes to nature, is astounding!  He gave each of us a purpose, from the birds to the turtles and everything in between.  All we have to do is open our eyes to see the creatures of the world, each one of them unique and miraculous! 

In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
(Ephesians 6:16)

I like thinking of fighting off the devil with my mighty shield held high, deflecting those flaming arrows.  It's a visual reference that comes to mind when I'm being confronted with temptations and other obstacles put before me in my daily battles.  I may not be holding a real, material shield, but the shield that I am holding is much more powerful and stronger than any real shield could ever aspire to be!

At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.  Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.  And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
(Mark 1:9-11)

We had an interesting sermon at church today about baptism....who?...how?....why?  We were directed to several scriptures for reference, only one is written above.  The debate is still out there over the "how," but scripture tells us that baptism is required as part of our salvation and that the baptism should be a submersion, not a sprinkling or other water gesture.  In the scripture above, Jesus comes up out of the water, clearly indicating that He was submerged.  The Greek word "baptizo", taken from the original Biblical writings, means submerge, drown, dunk.... again clearly indicating a submersion. 
For further scriptural references, here is a PDF link for "41 Reasons You Should Be Baptized."

 

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.  Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
(Hebrews 12:11)

The discipline of studying the Bible has become a pleasant ritual for me. It hasn't always been this way, as the Bible appeared to me as a book of complex mysteries that seemed too deep for my simple brain to process. However, the more I've studied the Bible, the easier it becomes, the more pleasant it becomes, and the more life changing it becomes. I now look forward to opening this amazing book and searching for scripture that offers me hope in all circumstances. The discipline and perseverance of Bible study reaps priceless rewards!

If you are new to Bible study, don't give up and don't get frustrated with yourself if you have trouble understanding the scripture. I'm not the sharpest crayon in the box and I have gained amazing insight, slowly but surely, by trusting God to open my mind to the scripture that fills my needs. The discipline of continued study will fill you with peace and understanding, one scriptural nugget at a time.

Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be.
(Job 8:7)

No matter what our living situation may be right now, our future will be blessed beyond anything our human minds can envision.  Everything will pale compared to our future with God!

Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit. (Philippians 2:3)

Don't we all want that pat on the back when we do something special? I think it's OK to respond with a gracious "thank you" when you have done something for someone, but we need to make sure that our motives behind the action were not for the reward of that pat on the back, but simply done for the benefit of the receiver. Most importantly, we need to forward the "thank you" to the Lord, who enabled us to do the action in the first place for His glory, and His glory alone.

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise

Blessings
Lyrics by Laura Story

After hearing this song on the radio for several weeks, I finally found out who wrote and sang it from friends on Facebook. Only the last chorus is written above. The entire song is very comforting and uplifting, as it directs our "pity me" thoughts to the reality of hidden blessings. Just a lovely song!

Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,
(Acts 3:19)

Just like a cool shower after a long day of working in the yard refreshes and restores your body, true repentance will wash away your sins and give you a fresh slate of forgiveness.

You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
(Matthew 7:5)

I'm not even going to explain or describe my behavior today, but hypocrite pretty well sums it up. Jesus was nowhere to be found in my thoughts and words this afternoon.

Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.
(Deuteronomy 32:2)

It's raining today.....a beautiful, soft, all-day rain. It's been raining for most of April and now several days in May. Many people get tired of the rain, but I always find it cozy, comforting, and peaceful...my favorite kind of day.

Just as the spring rains quench the new season of plants, the Word quenches my thirst for God.

Blogger is still not working properly and I have no idea when it will be fixed. I've already missed one day of posting, so I need to continue with this blog, regardless of Blogger issues.

My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning.

(Psalm 130:6)

I'm not good at waiting, as you can tell from my comment about waiting for Blogger to resolve their technical issues. But waiting anxiously for God is a good kind of waiting. One that is filled with hope, joy, delight, and anticipation. Waiting for God gives me the strength to tackle today, knowing that tomorrow will be filled with God's mercies and tenderness. I'm ready God....beam me up!

Posted: 12 May 2011 01:03 PM PDT
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

( 1 Corinthians 10:13)


Temptations lurk around every corner and we have to keep our eyes open in order to even recognize some of them. Many are quite subtle. God equips us with whatever we need to resist the temptations, but my problem is that I may forget to ask for God's help. I know I can't go it alone. Through prayer, God will keep me strong and focused on the task at hand.


(Blogger will not let me change font size, so I'm publishing this anyway. I'll edit later if Blogger has the problem fixed.)
Blogger is still not working and was down for over 16 hours. When it came back on, this post was deleted. I'm reposting it, still without being able to edit and change fonts. I hope they get things straightened out soon, so that I can continue with a daily post.

Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.

(Romans 3:19-20)

Today was my last day of BSF and the study of Isaiah. We are now dismissed for the summer break. BSF gives me worldly accountability. I'm always accountable to God, and I know that, but it helps me to have friends in my daily life that keep me grounded in scripture.

I will miss my weekly BSF meeting and the discussions with my BSF small group, but I'll keep myself accountable with continued Bible study, as well as this simple little blog that leads me back to the Bible to search for a daily scripture or thought that helps me stay in the Word. I may have a summer break from BSF, but I don't ever want a break from seeking God's word.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
(Matthew 6:34)

A beautiful concept....but one that I fail miserably. And I'm fully aware that worrying about tomorrow ruins the joy found today. So many things are out of my hands anyway, so why worry? I know the answer..... my faith isn't strong enough for me to turn it all over to God and trust that He will take care of it for me. And even if the worst happens tomorrow, God will be there to help me through the trials.

Alfred E Neuman had it right..."What, me worry?" I need a pinch of Alfred's attitude combined with a whole bunch of faith in God's protection and plan for my life!

When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever.
(Proverbs 10:25)

If we trust and obey God's commands, He will keep us firmly planted during the storms of life.

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
(Proverbs 1:8)

Both of my parents were wonderful life coaches. I may not have realized it at the time, but they had my very best interest at heart with each lesson taught. On this Mother's Day, I send a special thank you to my Mom, who is missed a little more each day.

Joy is not jolliness. Joy is perfect acquiescence in God's will because the soul delights itself in God Himself.
H. W. Webb-Peploe

Webster's dictionary says that joy is the "source of happiness." In my book, that means that joy is a synonym for God!

Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD.
(Psalm 27:6)

The Lord will take care of our enemies in His own way and in His own time. It may or may not coincide with our own agenda, but we must trust that everything is in God's capable control and justice will be served.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
(James 1:5)

I don't think "wise" is a word that someone would use to describe me, yet I'm very guilty of not turning to God for the wisdom that I may need in certain circumstances. He is always there, waiting and wanting us to turn to Him for all of our needs, including wisdom. I need to tap the amazing resources that God provides, knowing that He will not find fault with me, but will gladly guide and direct my paths.

God sets the lonely in families..
(Psalm 68:6a)

But what is a family? I've come to learn that family can be anyone that God brings into my life to help support and love me. My immediate family is no longer living on earth, yet I still have many people in my life that I consider to be my family. We may not have a blood connection, but it simply doesn't matter. They are my family and I love them as if we had shared parents and memories of days gone by. We make new memories, we share new stories, we support each other during tough times and we laugh with each other through the best of times. Family is what and who you make of it. :)

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
(Hebrews 13:5)

Hebrews is such a wonderful book of scripture. Many practical, applicable words of wisdom. I find that the more I immerse myself in the teachings of the Bible, the less "deprived" I feel. I may not have much in this financially dependant, materialistic world, but I'm extremely blessed and quite satisfied with what I do have. Thank you, God, for providing a rich, abundant life that has absolutely nothing to do with possessions and money!

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
(Hebrews 12:14)

The peace-makers are those who are at peace with God and who show that they are truly children of God by striving to use every opportunity open to them to effect reconciliation between others who are at variance.
R. V. G. Tasker

Bin Laden is dead but evil will thrive until the day the Lord throws Satan into the lake of fire.

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
(2 Timothy 3:16-17)

The Bible is not an old fashioned, outdated book designated to sit on the top shelf of the bookcase gathering dust. It's a living, vital, applicable resource for living in today's world. I'm blessed that I can open its' sacred pages whenever I want practical living lessons to guide and direct my thoughts and actions. What a gift!