Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.
(John 5:24)

Death is conquered for believers!

God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good.
(Genesis 1:25)

And good, they are.  God has directed several animals into my life over the years and each one has given me joy and enriched my life in ways beyond measure .... each one as unique, precious, and fleeting as one of God's snowflakes. 

They grumbled in their tents
and did not obey the LORD.
(Psalm 106:25)

Centuries later..... this is me.  I may not be in a tent, but otherwise it's the same scenario.  Grumble and disobey.  Even I get tired of listening to myself grumble.  I can't imagine the Lord listening to me (plus billions of others) without wanting to remind me (in a not-so-gentle way) of all of my blessings, all of which were given to me by God, Himself.     

Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power
and the glory and the majesty and the splendor,
for everything in heaven and earth is Yours.
Yours, LORD, is the kingdom;
You are exalted as head over all.
Wealth and honor come from You;
You are the ruler of all things.
In Your hands are strength and power
to exalt and give strength to all.
Now, our God, we give You thanks,
and praise Your glorious name.
(1 Chronicles 29:11-13)

I'm not very wordy today but chose this scripture because it speaks volumes without any insight or opinions from my feeble brain.

Glory be to God in Heaven!

But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves.
(Malachi 4:2)

The heat of the sun, warming my body, is healing and therapeutic.  I can feel the heat....bone deep.  When I give the glory to God, the warmth also reaches my spirit.....soul deep. 

The lot is cast into the lap,
but its every decision is from the LORD.
(Proverbs 16:23)

We may call it luck but it's God's will at work.  Everthing is under His control.

God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways;
he does great things beyond our understanding.
(Job 37:5)

Job is such a trooper.  In spite of more difficulties than I could begin to handle, he still sees God around him and follows His ways.  I think God's "thunder" may often be soft and gentle, so soft and gentle that we need to make sure we are paying attention.  Other times, He knocks us out of our socks.  No matter how He speaks to us, we are only human and do not have the ability to fully understand the Lord of Creation.  That's OK.....just keep looking and listening!

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.
(Colossians 4:5)

It couldn't be more true.....you can never make a second impression.  It's easy to judge and criticize, especially someone outside of your usual crowd.  The last thing you want to do is turn someone away and lose the opportunity to show them the fellowship of a God-pleasing Christian.  Be gentle with your first impression.

He replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?”
In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.
(Job 2:10)

We can't pick and choose God's gifts and/or punishments.  We get what we get and God expects us to accept both the good times and the bad times with grace and trust.  Maybe it's a test.  If it is, I know that I often fail.  Are we really listening and obeying God's will for us?  Do we learn from the trials or continue on our merry (sinful) way?   Just food for thought today.  What I do know is that no matter what comes my way, God is right by my side.

Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
(Joshua 1:8)

This is not an easy command to obey.  I don't meditate on anything day and night.  I have the attention span of a flea.  Even so, God expects me to give it quality time.  Life gets in the way, but I have no life without God.  My life is His. I would have abundant time for Bible study if I just made the time available.  It's there.  I can find time for almost anything if I just prioritize my schedule.  I've got an excuse for just about everything but God knows the absolute truth...... I put His Word on the back burner and do other things first.  I can't seem to do this on my own.... I need the power of the Holy Spirit to help me focus. 
Note to self....publish post.... open Bible..... STUDY!

Now God be prais'd that
to believing souls
Gives light in darkness,
comfort in despair!

William Shakespeare
(King Henry VI)

God is light!

I call on you, my God, for You will answer me;
turn Your ear to me and hear my prayer.
(Psalm 17:6)

The power of prayer is huge.  I know it can be discouraging when we don't see a quick answer to our prayers but it can also free us from worrying about the issue, knowing that God is listening and taking it under His wing.  Patience is usually required when we make a prayer request.  That patience may only be needed for a few minutes or it might be needed for a few decades.  It's God's timing...... remember?  Be patient.

Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
(Luke 7:50)

The woman mentioned in this scripture was considered trash.... a disposable person in her society, a person that would be ignored, perhaps stoned, certainly not someone  that "good" society would associate with.   Yet her humble, from the heart, treatment and worship of Jesus made such an impression on Him that he pardoned her past sins and she was given a fresh start. 

We can all have this forgiveness.  It's never too late and our sins are never too great to receive God's pardon.  We must, however, have the same heartfelt repentance and worship of Jesus Christ to receive this amazing gift.  The choice is ours.  Kind of a no-brainer.....don't you think?

After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.”
(Revelation 4:1)

I don't understand the book of Revelation very well.  It's a bit cryptic for my thought processes.  There are, however, bits and pieces of it that I do understand and visions that I'm able to bring to mind.  I can see the door to heaven, welcoming me to enter.  Entering won't be easy.  There are consequences to pay and repentances to make but it will all be worth it.  Someday, I will walk through that door and my life on earth will be gone in a flash, along with all of the worldly trials and tribulations.  Open the door, please ...... I'm ready!

This is my 365th post.  I didn't quite squeeze them all into one year, I went a little over....I started this blog on April 9, 2011.  Life happened along the way to keep me from posting.

My original blogging intention was purely selfish.  I knew that I would be dropping out of Bible Study Fellowship after seven years of study and wanted some sort of accountability to keep myself in God's Word on a daily basis.  This blog did this for me.  Whether anyone was reading or not, it motivated me to blog.  My blogging certainly wasn't as difficult as a structured Bible study, but it still gave me support throughout the year.  My posts were not particularly eye opening or life changing, in fact, they were just simple observations.  Still, I feel like I have completed my goal.  As far as the future, I am planning on continuing this blog.  I may not be as dedicated as I was the first year, but I'm still in a situation where I need daily accountability and will blog when possible.  Hopefully, it will still be daily/frequently.

 And here is my judgment about what is best for you in this matter. Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so.  Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means.  For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.
(2 Corinthians 8:10-12) 

You provide a broad path for my feet,
so that my ankles do not give way.
(2 Samuel 22:37)

God doesn't give us a tightrope to try and balance on without falling.  He gives us great latitude to live a life pleasing to Him without making the path narrow and treacherous.  I still stray from that path, finding distractions along the way until God guides me back into His loving arms.  Being on God's path is not restrictive, it's liberating!

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.
(1 Thessalonians 4:13)

Even as a Christian, I still grieve the loss of my loved ones.  I'm not necessarily grieving for them, I'm grieving selfishly for myself.  I miss them..... I'm lonely.....I don't understand why they are gone and I'm still here.  It's just hard, even though I know they are at peace.  On a positive note, I know that I will join them someday when God sends me home to their loving arms.  Meanwhile, I'm hanging in there, living off of memories and waiting for my reunion.
(I miss you everyday, TW)

They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.
(Revelation 17:14)

We have started a new sermon series at my church called "not a fan.", which is based on the book of the same title written by Kyle Idleman.  The link will give you more information.  Simply put, it's getting down to the basic question of "are you a fan or a follower?"   A fan is kind of like a fair weather friend.....when things get tough, they turn tail.  They seem to be a true friend, say the right things, even do the right things, but they have not given themselves completely.  A follower is a true believer and one who will stand up for Jesus and defend His honor in all circumstances.  I'm just beginning this book, but I can already see that I'm a follower/fan, not a true and complete follower.  I don't want to be a fan......I want to be a follower.

I recommend this book and I hope you will ask yourself the same question and answer honestly.  It will open your eyes to the truth.

Have mercy on me, LORD, for I am faint;
heal me, LORD, for my bones are in agony.
(Psalm 6:2)

Rough day..... overdid things....pushed myself too far.....but God will restore my physical body, as well as my spiritual body. 

CHRIST AROSE 

1. Low in the grave He lay,
Jesus, my Savior!
Waiting the coming day,
Jesus, my Lord!

2. Vainly they watch His bed,
Jesus, my Savior!
Vainly they seal the dead,
Jesus my Lord!

3. Death cannot keep his prey,
Jesus, my Savior!
He tore the bars away,
Jesus my Lord!

Chorus:
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.
He arose! He arose!
Hallelujah! Christ arose!

Lyrics: Robert Wadsworth Lowry

Written in 1874

Beautiful words!  We sang this timeless hymn in church this morning, along with other Easter-appropriate hymns.  The chorus was sung acappella and it was so beautiful and moving.

He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
(Matthew 28:6)

I hope your Easter was a grateful day of worship.  No matter who you are and what your life circumstances may be, you have the hope of a better life thanks to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.  

So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first.”
 “Take a guard,” Pilate answered. “Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how.”  So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard.
(Matthew 27:64-66)

It was not a trick.  The body wasn't stolen or misplaced.  There was no way for any mortal man to escape this tomb.  There was no way for anyone to enter or defile this tomb undetected, with or without help.  Only the living God could orchestrate this miracle as written in prophesy.  And so we wait..... for the morning of Jesus' Resurrection!

Good Friday Origins

There are two possible origins for the name "Good Friday". The first may have come from the Gallican Church in Gaul (modern-day France and Germany). The name "Gute Freitag" is Germanic in origin and literally means "good" or "holy" Friday. The second possibility is a variation on the name "God's Friday," where the word "good" was used to replace the word "God," which was often viewed as too holy to be spoken aloud.

Taken from ShareFaith   (I looked at many sites, most had similar explanations.)

I knew why it was "Good Friday" for me, but I didn't know where the name originated.  "Good" is hardly a word that I'd use to describe the horrific ordeal that Jesus endured and I often find it difficult to even use "good" in my discussions or thought processes about this Holy day.  The Bible often replaces "God" with "good" in scripture and this explanation is one that makes the most sense to me.

Regardless of the name, we know this to be the day that Jesus gave up His life for all of the sins of the world.  How do you feel about taking the blame for something that you didn't do?  It's a rare day when I'll take the consequences for someone elses' bad behavior.  As with many of my posts, it's just hard for me to fathom the sacrifice that Jesus made for me....I'm unworthy of any such act of selfless love, yet I know that He died for me.  He died for you.  He died in order for all of mankind to receive the gift of eternal life.  I'm blessed....I'm blessed beyond understanding.

Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.
(1 Peter 2:17)

It's hard for us to respect others, especially those who are different from us.  We also must respect and honor our political leaders, regardless of our political views, and pray for their leadership decisions.  God loves us all and made each one of us different.  What a dull world this would be if we were all made with the same cookie cutter.  Love your neighbor....respect each other..... and learn to appreciate the differences. 

And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
(Philippians 2:8)

Humility takes on a different picture when I think of Jesus humbling Himself to be human.  That's more humbling than me taking on the form of a flea.  And then to die when He could have turned them all into dust.  Dying on a cross....dying the death of a criminal.  All for me.....all for you..... all for the sinners of the world.  It's just hard for me to fathom that kind of humility, that kind of selflessness, that kind of sacrifice.  Thankfully, I don't have to fully understand, I only have to believe.

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 4:8-9)

This scripture came in a daily devotion today and was inspiring to me.  Life is tough, at it's best.  I'm feeling a bit battered and bruised and know that no matter how rough my life may be at times, it's still rewarding and blessed beyond measure.  As long as I never give up on God, nothing has the power to conquer me or my life.

Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.
(2 Corinthians 3:5)

There are days when I know that God has directed my every step.  On days when I'm unable to take the next step, He takes it for me.  He carries me.  Every breath I take comes from God and I thank Him for loving me enough to take good care of me.  And as far as competence goes, I'm nothing without Him!

But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,  keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
(Jude 1:20-21)

Keeping myself in God's love..... what a wonderful place to be!

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.
(3 John 1:2)

How amazing when both the body and the soul are healthy.  That would certainly be my prayer for everyone, not just my friends, and also for myself.  It may not be in God's will for me to have all parts in harmony at the same time but I know that my day of a healthy body and a healthy soul in tandem will come someday.  I'm ready.

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
(Deuteronomy 31:8)

Sometimes we just need to repeat this over and over........

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.
(Ecclesiastes 3:11)

God gives us His Word.  He gives us nature.  He gives us the Holy Spirit.  He gives us life.  He gives us miracles.  But no matter how many clues, how many books in the Bible, how many helps, it just isn't possible for us to grasp the enormity of God's power and wisdom.  I try to not get wrapped up in understanding all of the details.  The most important lesson is trusting God at His word and knowing that all of His promises will be fulfilled.  The "how" really doesn't matter.

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

If anyone was put through the wringer, it was Job.  

Even if my house were to fall on me and take my life, I would still be resting safely in God's loving arms.  As long as I have hope, I have peace of mind in any circumstance.  OK....the truth is that I still have my moments of fear and frustration, but a true believer has nothing to worry about.  I continue to work on the total trust that I know I should be giving God.  No doubts, no complaints, no judging, no worries.  Sounds so simple, yet I struggle to apply what my mind and heart knows to be true.

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)

Although I don't think of discipline as painful, it certainly can be difficult at times.  I'm grateful that my parents were gentle disciplinarians, making sure that I got the message without making their point in a harsh manner.  God makes His point in a gentle manner too.  The more we discipline ourselves to obey the Word of God, the better our life becomes.  We gain, not lose, by discipline.  We learn by being disciplined.  We become better people with discipline.  So don't think of discipline with a negative connotation.  Look at it as a learning experience to benefit and enrich your life.  It's another priceless gift from God.

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,  keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
(1 Peter 3:15-16)

No one wants to feel lectured or judged when you present your faith to them.  In fact, that's a great way to turn someone in the opposite direction.  Be soft with your words, be consistent with your behavior, and let God open their minds and hearts to accept His word. 

"The poorest person I know is the one who has nothing but money."
J.D. Rockefeller, Jr.

"Greed is the logical result of the belief that there is no life after death.  We grab what we can while we can however we can and then hold on tight."
Sir Fred Catherwood

"Content makes poor men rich: discontent makes rich men poor."
Benjamin Franklin

All of these quotes came from church this morning as we continue studying the Book of James, Chapter 5.  Fifteen years ago, I don't think I would have fully understood these quotes as I made adjustments that I looked at as being "poor me" adjustments while I picked up the pieces after a divorce and chronic illnesses (I still have the illnesses.....).  Money certainly makes things easier....no doubt about that, but I'm leading a much fuller life now as a member of the poorer crowd.  My priorities, thankfully, have taken a 180 turn.  And as I get older and older, all of the "things" that I have held onto for dear life no longer have the grasp on me that they once had.  Things are only things and will all be thrown away some day after I'm long gone.

So I try to live each day with gratitude as I sleep in a warm (or cool) home, get a drink of water out of my faucet, a snack from my fridge, and know that the Lord provides ALL that I need. 

“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty;
the whole earth is full of His glory.”
(Isaiah 6:3)

Today and everyday, may we remember that only God is holy and may everything we say, think, and do glorify our Holy God.  Being sinners, I know this is an impossible task but it's a lofty goal worth attempting every single minute of every single day. 

(I've been off line for a few days due to Internet problems.  When I don't post, I'm either ill or having computer issues.  Hang in there with me, please.)

But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD,
whose confidence is in Him.
(Jeremiah 17:7)

It's hard to explain this scripture to a non believer.  How can you feel blessed in the middle of troubles and trials?  Once you believe, you receive a wonderful gift of peace of mind.  It doesn't mean that things are easy....that simply isn't possible in this world....but it does mean that you can look at bad things with a good attitude.  No, I don't always see the blessings right in the middle of the pain but if I continue to rely on the Holy Spirit and the power within me, I eventually see that the good things far outnumber the bad things.  Believing is a blessing, filled with more gifts and joys than I can really imagine and understand.

They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the LORD was my support.
(Psalm 18:18)

Disasters are waiting around every corner.  Sometimes we can head them off at the pass, other times, they ambush us and we fall victim to the ruin.  But....no matter what, God will be by our side, guiding and directing our paths, supporting us and pointing out the learning opportunities and blessings hidden in the rubble. 

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.  Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
(1 Peter 5:8-9)

Every one of us face temptations and the devil knows just which ones are the most tempting and most hard to resist.  He uses that knowledge to worm his way into our lives.  None of us are exempt from the devil's tricks and sneaky tactics but we do have our own super power....that of the Holy Spirit.  Tap into that power....trust in that power..... utilize that power..... and make the devil powerless.

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

....A scripture I've used before and will, no doubt, use again.  My footing is always slipping and this gives me the promise of comfort and support from my Heavenly Father.

The LORD reigns forever;
He has established His throne for judgment.
(Psalm 9:7)

He has established His throne for judgment...... I'm not the one that is supposed to judge anyone or anything, but I truly feel that it's my worst attribute.  I'm equally hard on myself, but that still makes it wrong and sinful for me to judge anyone else.  I recognize this shortcoming, even when I'm doing it, yet I still continue.  The day will come when I receive the ultimate judgement and the only one that matters..... and I'll get what I deserve.  :(

More things are wrought by prayer
  Than this world dreams of. Wherefore, let thy voice
  Rise like a fountain for me night and day.
  For what are men better than sheep or goats
  That nourish a blind life within the brain,
  If, knowing God, they lift not hands of prayer
  Both for themselves and those who call them friend?

"Morte D'Arthur"
Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Prayers for friends and prayers from friends are some of the greatest gifts of all.

But may all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you;
may those who long for your saving help always say,
“The LORD is great!”
(Psalm 40:16)

And may I always remember to seek His help and not go it alone.

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
(Acts 2:42)

I had a wonderful breakfast with several ladies from church this morning.  I had met several of the ladies before, others were complete strangers...... until after the breakfast.  What a nice way to begin the weekend with fellowship and sharing the Word of God with new friends and old friends.  I'm feeling very blessed!

I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ.
(Philemon 1:20)

In our moments of weakness, it's always nice to have fellow Christians to help diminish our doubts and strengthen our faith.  I'm blessed with wonderful Christian friends who help me when I'm down and point me in the right direction with their own examples of faith and trust.

Flowers appear on the earth;
the season of singing has come,
the cooing of doves
is heard in our land.
(Song of Songs 2:12)

It may seem like it's too early for spring in Indiana, but God has everything in His control, including the blooming flowers.  After all, this IS my Father's world, every inch of it, and I will do my best to see the beauty in every season, in every type of weather, in every plant, and in every creature.  Nature abounds!

Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone but in every leaf of springtime.Martin Luther

I love this quote and the way it points out the miracles that surround us in any given day.  Nature is certainly one of God's most amazing creations with beauty overflowing every day, in every direction, regardless of the season.  With spring approaching, we always look forward to the new buds, the brown shades turning to grasshopper green, and the promise of warmth and new growth.... new beginnings. 

We may be living in the winter of our lives right now, but God promises us a fresh spring for those of us who believe.  I don't know what Heaven will be like, but sometimes I visualize a kind of Garden of Eden, surrounded by God's warmth and tender loving care.  Whatever it may actually be like, I know it will be perfect beyond my imagination!

Let us acknowledge the LORD;
let us press on to acknowledge Him.
As surely as the sun rises,
He will appear;
He will come to us like the winter rains,
like the spring rains that water the earth.”
(Hosea 6:3)

I never doubt that the sun will be shining (even if it's behind the clouds) when I get up in the morning.  It's happened every day of my life and I can depend on it happening until the end of time.  I don't think twice about the sun rising.....it just will.  That same confidence and trust must also be placed in the knowledge that the Lord will come to take us home.  It IS going to happen, just as the Bible says and just as the dawn promises.

Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.
(Leviticus 19:15)

This scripture is a continuation from yesterdays thoughts.  Even in churches, we see favoritism.  It may be unspoken, but it's still in the air.  Aren't we a bit more proud when we have a sanctuary overflowing with doctors, lawyers, and business men and a little more ashamed when we have many lower class, poorer, members?  Don't we approach and welcome those who most fit our mold of what a church-goer should look like?  God doesn't care what our occupation may be and He doesn't care if we are dressed in the latest styles.  What He does care about is what is on the inside.  Leave your judgements and opinions at the door and don't let them into your hearts.  And of course, always remember that looks can be very deceiving!

Food for thought.  If God judged me with the same standards that I judge others, would He choose me?  This question was posed at church today and really made me think twice about some preconceived notions that I have about others and ways that I judge them unfairly. 

God does not show favoritism.  My love has strings and I certainly have my favorite people and people that I barely tolerate.  I'm unworthy of God's love, yet He accepts me and loves me for who I am.  I'm not sure where I'm going with this....it just makes me feel so blessed that God loves me in spite of my shortcomings and the least I can do for others is give them a fair chance too. 

The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith, and the beginning of true faith is the end of anxiety.
George Müller

Love this quote.  It came in one of my daily devotions this morning and was right on target for my life and attitude. 

I woke early this morning, around 4:30 AM, and my mind immediately began worrying about one thing after another.  Besides needing the sleep, what was I going to do about any of my worries at 4:30 in the morning?...... Nothing, absolutely nothing.  I wasn't able to get back to sleep and I wasn't able to solve any of my issues.  All I accomplished was making my day harder by being tired.

I'm not proud that I don't always turn my troubles over to God.  Maybe it's an old habit that's hard to break.  God sees it the way it is..... a lack of faith. 

I'm not giving up on myself and neither is God.  I'll keep working on strengthening my faith, praying, and turning everything over to God and His will for me.

And he said, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
(Revelation 7:14)

It may not seem like it right now, but we will see the other side of our trials and tribulations some day.  Be strong and shoulder your troubles with the help of the Lord.

I will give you hidden treasures,
riches stored in secret places,
so that you may know that I am the LORD,
the God of Israel, who summons you by name.
(Isaiah 45:3)

Treasures abound....both in this life and the life to come.  As I study the Bible, I certainly have changed my opinion of what a treasure really is.  Material treasures are great, but will come and go and become virtually worthless.  Eternal treasure is exactly that.....eternal!

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

Hope is such a wonderful gift.  It gets us through the worst of times and helps us look toward the future an not get bogged down in the present situation.  We should be able to rest easy.....( I'm not saying that I'm always able to do this) ..... without worry and feel safe and secure in the hope the Lord has graciously given to us.

The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.
The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
(Romans 16:20)

Satan cannot have power over us unless we give it to him.  None the less, he's smart, crafty, and clever.  Fortunately for us, God is more powerful than 10,000 Satan's and will eventually destroy him.  Even though we know Satan's fate, we must keep our guard up at all times and not let Satan take advantage of us during weak moments.  Be strong and aware of his games and temptations. 

Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.
(1 Thessalonians 3:10)

I try and do self assesments to figure out where my faith needs shoring up.  It can be hard to see yourself and your faults with an outlook that God might have.  I'm grateful that I have friends that pray for me and offer support, as well as knowing that God is in my corner while I work on my shortcomings.   

Your right hand, LORD,
was majestic in power.
Your right hand, LORD,
shattered the enemy.
(Exodus 15:6)

The power in the Lord's hand is hard for me to fully comprehend.  What I do understand is that the Lord's hand trumps everything in the universe. The enemy doesn't stand a chance if we rely on God's hand to deliver us from evil.  Hold on tight!

Never forfeit faith too soon.
Wait and see what God will do.
When the silence listens long
For the faintest sound of song,
You may believe your hope's misplaced,
But moments wait in time and space.
And God will give you strength to stand
Until your moment is at hand.

(I don't know who wrote this....it came from a perpetual calendar of mine with no credit given.) 

I hope that it offers hope for you today.

Let those who love the LORD hate evil,
for he guards the lives of his faithful ones
and delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
(Psalm 97:10)

Even though we may hate evil, as human beings, we are still naturally subject to committing evil and behaving in sinful ways.  How comforting to know that the Lord still guards and protects us from the ways of the wicked, always guiding us along a more righteous path. 

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
(Colossians 3:17)

For Kathy, who continues to live her life according to the will of God, regardless of her own wants and needs.  Thank you for all that you do for me and for others.  You are such a blessing to me and I'm grateful for YOU!  

God is not human, that he should lie,
not a human being, that he should change his mind.
Does he speak and then not act?
Does he promise and not fulfill?
(Numbers 23:19)

Because we are human and full of flaws, I think it can be hard to imagine a perfect God ..... literally, perfect.  We are so far from perfect and can only relate to our own behavior, which is full of sin and contradictions.  God is God.  God is perfect.  Trust in God and His Word.  He will not let you down if you allow Him into your life.

I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
(Psalm 34:4)

How often do I rely on my own view and knowledge of a situation instead of turning to the Lord for His account? ..... More times than I should, that's for sure.  Turn to the Lord first.... not after you have tried your own way...... not after everything else has failed......turn to the Lord first.

Think not, thou canst sigh a sigh,
And thy maker is not by.
Think not, thou canst weep a tear,
And thy maker is not near.

O! he gives to us his joy,
That our grief he may destroy
Till our grief is fled & gone
He doth sit by us and moan.

On Another's Sorrow
By William Blake

God is with us during all of our days, hours, and minutes.  He never deserts us, never turns away.  He feels our pain, as well as our joys, and only wants the best for His children. 

I know all of this in my heart, but I sometimes need to see it in print or read it in His Word to remind myself of God's amazing promises to an undeserving me.

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as His children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?
(Hebrews 12:7)

Hardships.....we all have them, like it or not.  We talked about this in church today...that hardships are a part of life and used by God to make us rely on the Holy Spirit for our strength, wisdom and guidance.  Thinking of hardships as being part of God's discipline (as a father would discipline his child), rather than punishment, helps me accept them better...... with less "poor me"..... with less "what did I do to deserve this"..... and with less resentment.  I'll never like trials and tribulations, but this scripture directs me to look at them with a different, positive perspective. 

Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.
(1 Timothy 6:18)

My friends certainly set the example of generosity and good deeds.  I am forever grateful for their tender hearts and Godly ways.

If it is a matter of strength, He is mighty!
And if it is a matter of justice, who can challenge Him?
(Job 9:19)

We get challenged and confronted on so many angles in this world, yet it is all relative when we compare it to the power of God.  No one.... not one thing..... not anyone..... is stronger or more just than the Lord.  Keep this in mind as you face daily challenges.  We will all answer to God..... everyone.

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;  perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
(Romans 5:3-5)

I'm sure I've posted this scripture before, as it's one of my favorites.  I quoted it today to offer hope to a friend.  It can be so tough to suffer through any kind of trial, from illness to persecution and everything in between, but we always have hope in the Lord and know that He will love and support us through anything.  In spite of these difficulties, we learn from them, like it or not, and it will someday, in some way, improve our lives.  He gives us hope of a better tomorrow.... a new day.... a new beginning.

So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.
(Luke 17:10)

Doing just what is expected or required of us is not enough.  We need to do more and we need to it willingly, heartfelt, and with enthusiasm.  It isn't enough to just get by in this life.....God wants us to climb the next step and make a positive difference in this world.

Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.
(Jude 1:2)

Happy Valentine's Day!  No matter what your "love" situation may be, the Lord loves you more than anyone else.  His love is pure, His love is perfect, and His love is forever.

For the Lord will carry out
his sentence on earth with speed and finality.
(Romans 9:28)

We don't know when this will occur......are you ready?  I have my share of fear and doubts, but ultimately, I must trust in the Lord's promises for my future.

But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations.
(Psalm 33:11)

The Lord's plan.....the Lord's purposes.....the Lord's promises..... all stand firm forever and are as relevant today as they were centuries ago as well as centuries to come.

Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous;
it is fitting for the upright to praise him.
(Psalm 33:1)

Don't you think the Lord must love to hear millions of His followers singing His praise on Sunday morning?!  I hope He enjoys my praise and forgives my rusty voice. :)

These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come.  So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!
(1 Corinthians 10:11-12)

In this day and age, we can't say that we "didn't know."  We have the Bible, God's sacred word, and all of the lessons containing the consequences of actions, both good and bad.  We know that God forgives us if our hearts are truly repentant, but that isn't a free card to do as we please, then ask for forgiveness.  He wants us to learn from our mistakes, change our direction, and set a good example of Christlike behavior.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
(Colossians 3:12)

Sometimes I wear these wonderful traits, other times, I wear judgement and other negative attributes.  It's only with the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit that my negative traits can be tamed and the positive traits can be nourished.

Worry is an indication that we think God cannot look after us. Oswald Chambers

How true, yet I still worry about so many things.  Another chink in my armour that needs patching.

But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in Him and receive eternal life.
(1 Timothy 1:16)

Feeling like the worst of sinners myself, this scripture is so comforting.  No one is free from sin.  Not the disciples or any other human being....only Jesus can claim that honor.  But even the worst sinners are given mercy from the Lord.  So don't give up.....don't think you aren't good enough to receive eternal life.  Everyone has been sent the invitation to follow Christ to an everlasting life.  Just accept it!