Reading: Mark 1 -3
My Verse: " . . . But the people kept on coming to him from all sides and every quarter."(1:45).
Such great need! We are so needy a people! We only need to look at the tendency of people to flock after some charismatic leader - whether political, artistic or religious- sometimes even to death to see the evidence of this human tendency.
"For He had healed so many that all who had distressing bodily diseases kept falling upon Him and pressing upon Him in order that they might touch Him!"(3:10)
I often wonder if evolutionists ever consider this aspect of our human nature and wonder from whence it comes. This need we have to follow - to look up to - to worship. Left to our own devices we are a discontented people. We are ever searching and grasping for something!
I truly appreciate the bravery of England's Prime Minister, David Cameron when he attributed the cause of England's recent chaos to the slow moral decline of his country. It took great courage. England is, after all, the home of the lead atheist of our day - Richard Dawkins.
Many of our day view Christianity as a mere crutch - implying this is for only the weak. Do they not realize, Lord, that crutches come in many forms - a charismatic leader, a job, money, relationships, power, popularity, a cause, etc.? It can be said really that everyone has some form of crutch - some form of substitute to fill that void in our hearts.
We need to get over the plain and simple fact that we are a needy people! You made us that way. There is a longing, a void in our souls that nothing but You can fill.
"For He satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with good."(Ps. 107:9)
"For God alone my soul waits in silence; from Him comes my salvation."(Ps. 62:1)
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Lord Jesus - My Risen Lord!
Reading: Matthew 27, 28
My Verse: (27:50, 51) "But the angel said to the women, do not be alarmed and frightened, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, Who was crucified. He is not here; He is risen as He said [He would do]. Come, see the place where He lay."
This is an amazing and wonderful thing. It has been a grand journey reading through the old testament - leading me up to this. So much prophecy of You, Lord fulfilled here!
For You, Lord are alive and actively working within and through us here on earth. You did what was needed - an act I cannot fully comprehend - to conquer death and enable us to be saved from our fallen, sinful state.
"[For it is He] Who delivered and saved us and called us with a calling in itself holy and leading to holiness; [He did it] not because of anything of merit that we have done, but because of and to further His own purpose and grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began." (II Tim. 1:9)
You, Lord, "annulled death and made it of no effect . . ." (II Tim. 1:10)
Our Sunday School teacher, James McDonald - via DVD - taught this past Sunday on our need to make sure we are worshipping the correct and true Lord Jesus. He spoke of how there are so many caricatures of You, Lord Jesus, out there, people making You to conform to their personal wants. A.W. Tozer taught on this very thing - and called it idolatry.
I am so thankful that I can know I serve a risen Lord! As I read Your Word - as I meet You in prayer You draw me to You. You forgive me, change me, and heal me. You enable me to love You and be Your child.
Thank You for what You did for me - I serve a risen living Lord Jesus, indeed!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (27:50, 51) "But the angel said to the women, do not be alarmed and frightened, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, Who was crucified. He is not here; He is risen as He said [He would do]. Come, see the place where He lay."
This is an amazing and wonderful thing. It has been a grand journey reading through the old testament - leading me up to this. So much prophecy of You, Lord fulfilled here!
For You, Lord are alive and actively working within and through us here on earth. You did what was needed - an act I cannot fully comprehend - to conquer death and enable us to be saved from our fallen, sinful state.
"[For it is He] Who delivered and saved us and called us with a calling in itself holy and leading to holiness; [He did it] not because of anything of merit that we have done, but because of and to further His own purpose and grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began." (II Tim. 1:9)
You, Lord, "annulled death and made it of no effect . . ." (II Tim. 1:10)
Our Sunday School teacher, James McDonald - via DVD - taught this past Sunday on our need to make sure we are worshipping the correct and true Lord Jesus. He spoke of how there are so many caricatures of You, Lord Jesus, out there, people making You to conform to their personal wants. A.W. Tozer taught on this very thing - and called it idolatry.
I am so thankful that I can know I serve a risen Lord! As I read Your Word - as I meet You in prayer You draw me to You. You forgive me, change me, and heal me. You enable me to love You and be Your child.
Thank You for what You did for me - I serve a risen living Lord Jesus, indeed!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Keep Your Lamp Ready!
Reading: Matthew 25, 26
My Verse: (25:2) "Five of them were foolish (thoughtless, without forethought) and five were wise (sensitive, intelligent and prudent)."
So often, Lord, You call upon us to be prudent, wise in how we live. You have given us a sound mind and want us to use it! (II Tim. 1:7)
"Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people). Making the very most of the time because the days are evil. Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is." (Eph. 5:15-17)
This is an area of my life that I know I need You to help me. I am not always prudent about how I use my time. I do not always look ahead and prepare as well for upcoming events as I should. Here I thank You, Lord, for the husband You gave me. I have learned much from him in this area of getting organized!
I thank You, Lord, that You continually help me in this as I read and study Your word. For You continually renew my mind. (Romans 12:2)
I do not want to be the unwise maid with an unprepared oil lamp. I want to be the maid with spare oil and trimmed wicks, prepared for the wait, however long it takes for Your glorious return!
"All of you must keep awake and watch and pray, that you may not come into temptation." (26:41)
"Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour when the Son of Man will come." (25:13)
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (25:2) "Five of them were foolish (thoughtless, without forethought) and five were wise (sensitive, intelligent and prudent)."
So often, Lord, You call upon us to be prudent, wise in how we live. You have given us a sound mind and want us to use it! (II Tim. 1:7)
"Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people). Making the very most of the time because the days are evil. Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is." (Eph. 5:15-17)
This is an area of my life that I know I need You to help me. I am not always prudent about how I use my time. I do not always look ahead and prepare as well for upcoming events as I should. Here I thank You, Lord, for the husband You gave me. I have learned much from him in this area of getting organized!
I thank You, Lord, that You continually help me in this as I read and study Your word. For You continually renew my mind. (Romans 12:2)
I do not want to be the unwise maid with an unprepared oil lamp. I want to be the maid with spare oil and trimmed wicks, prepared for the wait, however long it takes for Your glorious return!
"All of you must keep awake and watch and pray, that you may not come into temptation." (26:41)
"Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour when the Son of Man will come." (25:13)
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Friday, August 26, 2011
No One Knows the Hour
Reading: Matthew 22, 23, 24
My Verse: (24:36) "But of that [exact] day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."
This is an amazing thing. So many try to predict the day of Your return but here it is in Your very own words. No one knows the time of Your return! You warn us. "See I have warned you beforehand. So if they say to you, Behold, He is in the wilderness - do not go out there; if they tell you, Behold, He is in the secret places or inner rooms - do not believe it." (22:23,24)
We don't need to be worrying that somehow we might miss the event of Your return! The entire world will know when this happens. "For just as the lightening flashes from the east and shines and is seen from the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be." (24:27) No, this will not be a secret, hidden thing!
You remind us of the flood - how people obliviously lived their lives right up to the end - "they were eating and drinking, marrying and being given in marriage, until the [very] day when Noah went into the ark." (24:38)
No, we are not to be as they were. You tell us we may not know the hour of Your return but we are to be ready for it. "You also must be ready therefore, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not expect Him." (24:44)
Yes, You are coming back! This is our great hope. There will be no doubt of what is happening on that great day! "He Who gives this warning and affirms and testifies to these things says, Yes (it is true). [Surely] I am coming quickly. Amen! Yes, come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20)
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (24:36) "But of that [exact] day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."
This is an amazing thing. So many try to predict the day of Your return but here it is in Your very own words. No one knows the time of Your return! You warn us. "See I have warned you beforehand. So if they say to you, Behold, He is in the wilderness - do not go out there; if they tell you, Behold, He is in the secret places or inner rooms - do not believe it." (22:23,24)
We don't need to be worrying that somehow we might miss the event of Your return! The entire world will know when this happens. "For just as the lightening flashes from the east and shines and is seen from the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be." (24:27) No, this will not be a secret, hidden thing!
You remind us of the flood - how people obliviously lived their lives right up to the end - "they were eating and drinking, marrying and being given in marriage, until the [very] day when Noah went into the ark." (24:38)
No, we are not to be as they were. You tell us we may not know the hour of Your return but we are to be ready for it. "You also must be ready therefore, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not expect Him." (24:44)
Yes, You are coming back! This is our great hope. There will be no doubt of what is happening on that great day! "He Who gives this warning and affirms and testifies to these things says, Yes (it is true). [Surely] I am coming quickly. Amen! Yes, come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20)
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Pray with Courage & Faith
Reading: Matthew 19, 20, 21
My Verse: 21:22 "And whatever you ask for in prayer, having faith and [really] believing, you will receive."
Prayer is that discipline that brings us into your very presence, Lord. You tell us to "pray without ceasing." (I Thess. 5:17)
Throughout the Bible we read of the great men praying. We read of how You, God respond to prayer - like in the case of Sodom and Gomorrah when Abraham prayed for leniency. (Gen. 18) We read of how You, Yourself prayed. You even provide us a tutorial on how to pray in the Lord's Prayer. ( Matt. 6:9-13)
So prayer is essential to my life as a believer. I am to be a prayer warrior. Paul tells us we are "fellow workmen with and for God" (I Cor. 3:9) As Richard Foster puts it, "we are working with God to determine the outcome of events." Is that not amazing? " The earnest prayer of righteous men makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. (James 5:16)
I like what William Carey wrote. "Prayer - secret, fervent, believing prayer - lies at the root of all personal godliness."
Written on the inside of my Bible is "Reading the Bible may be hazardous to your status quo!" So with prayer. To truly pray is to change.
I am so grateful to be counted as Yours, Lord - to be one of Your prayer warriors. Help me to be a true warrior here - entering into prayer with courage and faith in You!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: 21:22 "And whatever you ask for in prayer, having faith and [really] believing, you will receive."
Prayer is that discipline that brings us into your very presence, Lord. You tell us to "pray without ceasing." (I Thess. 5:17)
Throughout the Bible we read of the great men praying. We read of how You, God respond to prayer - like in the case of Sodom and Gomorrah when Abraham prayed for leniency. (Gen. 18) We read of how You, Yourself prayed. You even provide us a tutorial on how to pray in the Lord's Prayer. ( Matt. 6:9-13)
So prayer is essential to my life as a believer. I am to be a prayer warrior. Paul tells us we are "fellow workmen with and for God" (I Cor. 3:9) As Richard Foster puts it, "we are working with God to determine the outcome of events." Is that not amazing? " The earnest prayer of righteous men makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. (James 5:16)
I like what William Carey wrote. "Prayer - secret, fervent, believing prayer - lies at the root of all personal godliness."
Written on the inside of my Bible is "Reading the Bible may be hazardous to your status quo!" So with prayer. To truly pray is to change.
I am so grateful to be counted as Yours, Lord - to be one of Your prayer warriors. Help me to be a true warrior here - entering into prayer with courage and faith in You!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Do Not Cause a 'Little One' to Stumble
Reading: Matthew 16, 17, 18
My Verse: (18:6) "But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in and acknowledge and cleaves to Me to stumble and sin [that is, who entices him or hinders him in right conduct or thought], it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be sunk in the depth of the sea."
This is a hard thing, Lord. It is scarey. I chaff at it because I do not want to be responsible for others. And yet here it is - " . . . woe to the person on whose account or by whom the temptation comes!" (18:7)
You tell me in Colossians, "Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by} tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience. Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has forgiven you; so must you also. (3:12,13)
Every word that comes from my mouth needs to be edifying to others. I need to be loving and caring to others in word and deed - and that means the checkout lady at the grocery store!
Lord, it is of course impossible to be all that You would have me to be on my own. I pray that You will keep and guide me so that I do not inadvertantly by some misspoken word or careless act cause another believer hurt or to stumble. I claim Psalm 73:24 here; "You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to honor and glory."
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (18:6) "But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in and acknowledge and cleaves to Me to stumble and sin [that is, who entices him or hinders him in right conduct or thought], it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be sunk in the depth of the sea."
This is a hard thing, Lord. It is scarey. I chaff at it because I do not want to be responsible for others. And yet here it is - " . . . woe to the person on whose account or by whom the temptation comes!" (18:7)
You tell me in Colossians, "Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by} tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience. Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has forgiven you; so must you also. (3:12,13)
Every word that comes from my mouth needs to be edifying to others. I need to be loving and caring to others in word and deed - and that means the checkout lady at the grocery store!
Lord, it is of course impossible to be all that You would have me to be on my own. I pray that You will keep and guide me so that I do not inadvertantly by some misspoken word or careless act cause another believer hurt or to stumble. I claim Psalm 73:24 here; "You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to honor and glory."
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Lip Service
Reading: Matthew 13, 14, 15
My Verse: (15:8,9) "These people draw near Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts hold off and are far away from Me. Uselessly do they worship Me, for they teach as doctrines the commands of men."
Here we have so sad a thing! Far too often we are performing empty ritualistic practices to make ourselves feel better - but go on with unrepentant hearts.
Lord Jesus, Your teaching here is so revealing of the heart! You strip away all the trappings of religion and demand that we give You our heart - our whole self! Our heart, mind and soul! Nothing less is acceptable. "And He replied to him, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind (intellect). This is the great and first commandment." (Matt. 22:37,38)
So many of us hold onto pride - so that it becomes this great barrier to true repentance and a barrier to a growing relationship with You. Thank You for the illustration of the Gentile woman pleading with You to heal her daughter. She accepted who whe was - so unworthy, yet she knew and believed You were a God of love and mercy and on that belief she persisted! (v. 15:22-27) Her humility speaks to me and reveals to me my need to seek out Your healing of my heart attitude.
Help me to not let this world's immediate problems overwhelm me as Peter let the rough seas overwhelm and take his eyes off You. Too many things in this world cry out for our attention, drain away our energy so that we have nothing left for You! We become numb and then all we can do it give You lip service. "Uselessly do they worship me." We don't have time or energy to search out Your truths for ourselves and simply let men lead us along. "for they teach as doctrines the commands of men."
Lord, I do not want to be there! I do not want my worship to be empty ritualistic practice. Today help me to worship You with all my heart, all my mind and all my soul!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (15:8,9) "These people draw near Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts hold off and are far away from Me. Uselessly do they worship Me, for they teach as doctrines the commands of men."
Here we have so sad a thing! Far too often we are performing empty ritualistic practices to make ourselves feel better - but go on with unrepentant hearts.
Lord Jesus, Your teaching here is so revealing of the heart! You strip away all the trappings of religion and demand that we give You our heart - our whole self! Our heart, mind and soul! Nothing less is acceptable. "And He replied to him, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind (intellect). This is the great and first commandment." (Matt. 22:37,38)
So many of us hold onto pride - so that it becomes this great barrier to true repentance and a barrier to a growing relationship with You. Thank You for the illustration of the Gentile woman pleading with You to heal her daughter. She accepted who whe was - so unworthy, yet she knew and believed You were a God of love and mercy and on that belief she persisted! (v. 15:22-27) Her humility speaks to me and reveals to me my need to seek out Your healing of my heart attitude.
Help me to not let this world's immediate problems overwhelm me as Peter let the rough seas overwhelm and take his eyes off You. Too many things in this world cry out for our attention, drain away our energy so that we have nothing left for You! We become numb and then all we can do it give You lip service. "Uselessly do they worship me." We don't have time or energy to search out Your truths for ourselves and simply let men lead us along. "for they teach as doctrines the commands of men."
Lord, I do not want to be there! I do not want my worship to be empty ritualistic practice. Today help me to worship You with all my heart, all my mind and all my soul!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Friday, August 19, 2011
Nothing is Insignificant!
Matthew 10, 11, 12
My Verse: (10:29) "Are not two little sparrows sold for a penny? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's leave (consent) and notice."
This is a great visual for me. I love song birds. One of my favorites - as You know, Lord, is the golden-crowned sparrow whose song is ever so sweet!
I once came upon a man, yes a man, shooting chickadees. Apparently, the point of the exercise was to see how many bullets the bird could take before it died! As I came upon this man he had one in his hand and was saying with glee. "This one has three bullets and it is still moving!" Well, I went into a rage. I can still see the expression on the guys face. I must have been dreadful because he actually looked frightened and stuttered something about being sorry and not doing it again.
Little birds seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things. And to this guy they were. But to You, Lord, the Creator God they are not.
No, nothing goes unnoticed before You, for You are sovereign over all. Everything that we do is significant and has consequesces. I think of King David's decision to stay home and lounge about when he should have been with his army. Seems insignificant enough - to be lazy just one day. Well, we all know the catastrophic consequences of that!
So it is with us. I cannot be careless in how I live my life before You and the world. For just as You count the very hairs of my head so You observe and note my every action.
Lord, help me to be sensitive to those actions that dishonor and offend You. Forgive me for the wrongs that I do. Help me also to be sensitive to those moments when I can be a witness for you by however small the act or gesture.
"Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is wholesome and My burden is light and easy to be borne." (11:29-30)
I am so grateful to be counted as Your child. Like the little chickadee and the sparrow I am not insignificant and nothing that I do is.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (10:29) "Are not two little sparrows sold for a penny? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's leave (consent) and notice."
This is a great visual for me. I love song birds. One of my favorites - as You know, Lord, is the golden-crowned sparrow whose song is ever so sweet!
I once came upon a man, yes a man, shooting chickadees. Apparently, the point of the exercise was to see how many bullets the bird could take before it died! As I came upon this man he had one in his hand and was saying with glee. "This one has three bullets and it is still moving!" Well, I went into a rage. I can still see the expression on the guys face. I must have been dreadful because he actually looked frightened and stuttered something about being sorry and not doing it again.
Little birds seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things. And to this guy they were. But to You, Lord, the Creator God they are not.
No, nothing goes unnoticed before You, for You are sovereign over all. Everything that we do is significant and has consequesces. I think of King David's decision to stay home and lounge about when he should have been with his army. Seems insignificant enough - to be lazy just one day. Well, we all know the catastrophic consequences of that!
So it is with us. I cannot be careless in how I live my life before You and the world. For just as You count the very hairs of my head so You observe and note my every action.
Lord, help me to be sensitive to those actions that dishonor and offend You. Forgive me for the wrongs that I do. Help me also to be sensitive to those moments when I can be a witness for you by however small the act or gesture.
"Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is wholesome and My burden is light and easy to be borne." (11:29-30)
I am so grateful to be counted as Your child. Like the little chickadee and the sparrow I am not insignificant and nothing that I do is.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Keeping On!
Reading: Matthew 7,8,9
My Verse: (7:7) "Keep on asking and it will be given you; keep on seeking and you will find; keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you."
I like how the amplified emphasizes "keep on". I am to persevere in my walk with You, Lord. I am to keep on keeping on!
You teach here that I a believer and follower of You will be known by my fruits. "Therefore, you will be fully known by your fruits." (v.7:20) You teach that if I hear Your Word and heed Your Word I "will be like a sensible man who built his house upon the rock." (v.7:24) Not the foolish man who built upon the sand!
You show me through the centurion who came to You to heal his daughter that I must not only ask but believe You are able to do all that I ask and more!
You show me through the woman who suffered for 12 years - that seeking You is always the answer. You are the Healer.
You show through all the miracles - that You are indeed a loving, compassionate God. You want us to come to You, to ask You for our help.
From all this I see why I am to keep on asking You, seeking You, and knocking on Your door. You will provide me all that I need and more. You are the answer to life's problems.
"My foot has held fast to His steps; His ways have I kept and not turned aside." (Job 23:11)
Help me, Lord, to keep on!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (7:7) "Keep on asking and it will be given you; keep on seeking and you will find; keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you."
I like how the amplified emphasizes "keep on". I am to persevere in my walk with You, Lord. I am to keep on keeping on!
You teach here that I a believer and follower of You will be known by my fruits. "Therefore, you will be fully known by your fruits." (v.7:20) You teach that if I hear Your Word and heed Your Word I "will be like a sensible man who built his house upon the rock." (v.7:24) Not the foolish man who built upon the sand!
You show me through the centurion who came to You to heal his daughter that I must not only ask but believe You are able to do all that I ask and more!
You show me through the woman who suffered for 12 years - that seeking You is always the answer. You are the Healer.
You show through all the miracles - that You are indeed a loving, compassionate God. You want us to come to You, to ask You for our help.
From all this I see why I am to keep on asking You, seeking You, and knocking on Your door. You will provide me all that I need and more. You are the answer to life's problems.
"My foot has held fast to His steps; His ways have I kept and not turned aside." (Job 23:11)
Help me, Lord, to keep on!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Consider the Lilies
Reading: Matthew 6
My Verse: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (v. 21)
This has to be one of my favorite passages of the Bible! It speaks so directly to me. "Therefore I tell you, stop being perpetually uneasy about your life . . ." (v.25) I do that - before I realize it I am fretting about one thing or another!
Here You tell me to look at the birds - "they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns and yet Your heavenly Father keeps feeding them. Are you not worth much more than they?" (v. 26)
You tell me to "consider the lilies . . . even Solomon in all his magnificence was not arrayed like one of them." (v. 29)
You tell me "And who of you by worrying can add one unit of measure to his stature or to the span of his life?" (v. 27)
I am learning -slowly, but thanks to You I am learning "My times are in Your hands . . . " (Psalm 31:15)
I like nice things. I am learning that its okay - I just don't need all the nice things that I like! "Do not gather up and store for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust and worm consume and destroy, and where thieves break through and steal." (v. 19)
I want my treasures to be in You, Lord! So today I will "look at the birds" and "consider the lilies" and think about what You are teaching me through Your handiwork.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (v. 21)
This has to be one of my favorite passages of the Bible! It speaks so directly to me. "Therefore I tell you, stop being perpetually uneasy about your life . . ." (v.25) I do that - before I realize it I am fretting about one thing or another!
Here You tell me to look at the birds - "they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns and yet Your heavenly Father keeps feeding them. Are you not worth much more than they?" (v. 26)
You tell me to "consider the lilies . . . even Solomon in all his magnificence was not arrayed like one of them." (v. 29)
You tell me "And who of you by worrying can add one unit of measure to his stature or to the span of his life?" (v. 27)
I am learning -slowly, but thanks to You I am learning "My times are in Your hands . . . " (Psalm 31:15)
I like nice things. I am learning that its okay - I just don't need all the nice things that I like! "Do not gather up and store for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust and worm consume and destroy, and where thieves break through and steal." (v. 19)
I want my treasures to be in You, Lord! So today I will "look at the birds" and "consider the lilies" and think about what You are teaching me through Your handiwork.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Growing In The Lord
Reading: Matthew 3 - 5
My Verse: (5:48) "You, therefore, must be perfect [growing into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity] as your heavenly Father is perfect."
Wow, Lord, You sure did turn the world upside down with Your teaching here! I am reading and thinking -but it isn't possible! -to be perfect like You! And as I think that I realize that is the point isn't it? Without You we cannot do anything -cannot possibly be anything near like You -and You do not accept anything less.
So where does that leave me, Lord? Totally dependent on You. For in You and in You only can I find freedom from the binding chains of sin. "And you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free." (John 8:32) In You only can I find joy and peace. "And let the peace from Christ rule in your hearts . . ." (Col. 3:15) And through You only am I being tranformed. "And all of us, . . . are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor . . ." (II Cor. 3:18)
Thank You for chapter 4. Thank You for showing me through your very actions that Your Word is always the answer. Through Your Word You teach us, guide us, guard us, and bring us along. I am so thankful You do not leave us on our own here.
"Let the Word [spoken by] Christ have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness. . . ." (Col. 3:16)
Thank You, that I am ever growing and maturing and my mind and heart are being renewed daily through Your Word.
I pray for Your blessings on me today.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (5:48) "You, therefore, must be perfect [growing into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity] as your heavenly Father is perfect."
Wow, Lord, You sure did turn the world upside down with Your teaching here! I am reading and thinking -but it isn't possible! -to be perfect like You! And as I think that I realize that is the point isn't it? Without You we cannot do anything -cannot possibly be anything near like You -and You do not accept anything less.
So where does that leave me, Lord? Totally dependent on You. For in You and in You only can I find freedom from the binding chains of sin. "And you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free." (John 8:32) In You only can I find joy and peace. "And let the peace from Christ rule in your hearts . . ." (Col. 3:15) And through You only am I being tranformed. "And all of us, . . . are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor . . ." (II Cor. 3:18)
Thank You for chapter 4. Thank You for showing me through your very actions that Your Word is always the answer. Through Your Word You teach us, guide us, guard us, and bring us along. I am so thankful You do not leave us on our own here.
"Let the Word [spoken by] Christ have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness. . . ." (Col. 3:16)
Thank You, that I am ever growing and maturing and my mind and heart are being renewed daily through Your Word.
I pray for Your blessings on me today.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Fulfilled Prophecy
Reading: Matthew 1, 2
My Verse: (1:22) "All this took place that it might be fulfilled which the Lord had spoken through the prophet."
These two chapters are tightly packed with the amazingly beautiful story of Jesus. The geneology sets the stage for the arrival of our Lord Jesus, the fulfillment of some incredibly detailed prophecy in the Old Testament. Geneology is an amazing thing - because it speaks to all the events that must occur at the correct when and where before the predicted event occurs. It is nothing less than marvelous and miraculous!
"And we have the prophetic word [made] firmer still. You will do well to pay close attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dismal place, until the day breaks through [the gloom] and the Morning Star rises (comes into being) in your hearts. [Yet] first [you must] understand this, that no prophecy of Scripture is [a matter] of any personal or private or special interpretation. For no prophecy ever originated because some man willed it, but men spoke from God who were borne along by the Holy Spirit." (II Peter 1:19-21)
Yes, we do well indeed to pay attention to Your word, Lord. Because of all the fulfilled prophecy of the Old Testament we can look forward confidently and hopefully to Your second coming which is spoken of and prophesied throughout Your Word.
"Behold, I am coming soon, . . . "
"I am the Alpha and the Omega . . . " (Revelation 22:12,13)
These Your very own words!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (1:22) "All this took place that it might be fulfilled which the Lord had spoken through the prophet."
These two chapters are tightly packed with the amazingly beautiful story of Jesus. The geneology sets the stage for the arrival of our Lord Jesus, the fulfillment of some incredibly detailed prophecy in the Old Testament. Geneology is an amazing thing - because it speaks to all the events that must occur at the correct when and where before the predicted event occurs. It is nothing less than marvelous and miraculous!
"And we have the prophetic word [made] firmer still. You will do well to pay close attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dismal place, until the day breaks through [the gloom] and the Morning Star rises (comes into being) in your hearts. [Yet] first [you must] understand this, that no prophecy of Scripture is [a matter] of any personal or private or special interpretation. For no prophecy ever originated because some man willed it, but men spoke from God who were borne along by the Holy Spirit." (II Peter 1:19-21)
Yes, we do well indeed to pay attention to Your word, Lord. Because of all the fulfilled prophecy of the Old Testament we can look forward confidently and hopefully to Your second coming which is spoken of and prophesied throughout Your Word.
"Behold, I am coming soon, . . . "
"I am the Alpha and the Omega . . . " (Revelation 22:12,13)
These Your very own words!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Only He Can Keep Me
Reading: Psalms 141 - 150
My Verse: (143:8) "Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, for on You do I lean and in You do I trust. Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk, for I lift up my inner self to You."
Yes, This is my prayer. Only You, Lord, can keep me. Only You can keep me from falling flat on my face or into a pit of despondency. It is so easy to become careless. Just the other day I was thinking of how much more organized I was - feeling quite pleased with myself. Then Bam! Flat on my face! In another instance someone said something to me that sent me to the pit of Blah! In both instances I needed You to pick me up off my face and pull me out of the pit! Thank You for reminding me that I do need to look to You each and every morning; "for in You do I lean and on You do I trust."
"Set a guard, O Lord, before my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips." (141:3) If a few misspoken words can drag me down so easily, O Lord, help me to ever be mindful of what I say to others. I pray that the words from my mouth honor You and edify others.
"He sends out His word and melts [ice and snow]." (147:18) Only You can melt a heart of stone. Only You can bring us to You. Only You can heal us in our deepest parts. Only You can keep us. Your Word is all powerful. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself." (John 1:1)
I have a little saying pencilled onto the back of my Bible; "A thankful heart is protection against deception."
"Let everything that has breath and every breath of life praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)" (150:6) "Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God, for He is gracious and lovely; praise is becoming and appropriate." (147:1) I praise You and am so thankful that You have saved me and that You keep me from straying from You.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (143:8) "Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, for on You do I lean and in You do I trust. Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk, for I lift up my inner self to You."
Yes, This is my prayer. Only You, Lord, can keep me. Only You can keep me from falling flat on my face or into a pit of despondency. It is so easy to become careless. Just the other day I was thinking of how much more organized I was - feeling quite pleased with myself. Then Bam! Flat on my face! In another instance someone said something to me that sent me to the pit of Blah! In both instances I needed You to pick me up off my face and pull me out of the pit! Thank You for reminding me that I do need to look to You each and every morning; "for in You do I lean and on You do I trust."
"Set a guard, O Lord, before my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips." (141:3) If a few misspoken words can drag me down so easily, O Lord, help me to ever be mindful of what I say to others. I pray that the words from my mouth honor You and edify others.
"He sends out His word and melts [ice and snow]." (147:18) Only You can melt a heart of stone. Only You can bring us to You. Only You can heal us in our deepest parts. Only You can keep us. Your Word is all powerful. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself." (John 1:1)
I have a little saying pencilled onto the back of my Bible; "A thankful heart is protection against deception."
"Let everything that has breath and every breath of life praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)" (150:6) "Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God, for He is gracious and lovely; praise is becoming and appropriate." (147:1) I praise You and am so thankful that You have saved me and that You keep me from straying from You.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Friday, August 12, 2011
His Mercy & Loving-kindness Is Active & Enduring
Reading: Psalms 136 - 140
My Verse: (138:8) "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy and loving-kindness endure forever - forsake not the works of your own hands."
This thought is echoed in that much loved verse in Philippians 1:6 "And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ, developing and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you."
Thank You, Lord, that Your mercy endures for all time - continuously - actively - lovingly!
I need only place myself before You. You will correct my mind with its wrong thinking. You will heal my soul because I was sinful from birth. You will mend my character because like all that is on this fallen earth I am flawed.
I pray, Lord, that I will not be or become sanctimonious. There are many unlovely Christians out there and sometimes it is hard to know why they are unlovely because outwardly they "appear" righteous. Again I quote Tozer here as he puts this so well. "The notorious unloveliness of many religious people can be explained in this way. It might be a shock to some of us if we could know why we are disliked and why our testimony is rejected so violently. Could it be that we are guilty of a deep sinfulness of disposition that we just cannot keep hidden? Arrogance, lack of charity, fault-finding - and all this kept under careful restraint and disguised by a pious smile and synthetic good humor. This sort of thing is felt rather than understood by those who touch us in everyday life. They do not know why they cannot stand us, but we are sure that the reason is our exalted state of spirituality! Perilous comfort. Deep heart searching and prolonged repentance would be better."
Thank You, Lord, that You continue to correct, heal and mend me! I need only to stay in Your Word. "And all of us as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit." (II Cor. 3:18)
"Search me [thoroughly], O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if
there is any wicked or hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23,24) I need always to be repentant of my sins.
Thank You for Your active and enduring mercy and loving-kindness!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (138:8) "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy and loving-kindness endure forever - forsake not the works of your own hands."
This thought is echoed in that much loved verse in Philippians 1:6 "And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ, developing and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you."
Thank You, Lord, that Your mercy endures for all time - continuously - actively - lovingly!
I need only place myself before You. You will correct my mind with its wrong thinking. You will heal my soul because I was sinful from birth. You will mend my character because like all that is on this fallen earth I am flawed.
I pray, Lord, that I will not be or become sanctimonious. There are many unlovely Christians out there and sometimes it is hard to know why they are unlovely because outwardly they "appear" righteous. Again I quote Tozer here as he puts this so well. "The notorious unloveliness of many religious people can be explained in this way. It might be a shock to some of us if we could know why we are disliked and why our testimony is rejected so violently. Could it be that we are guilty of a deep sinfulness of disposition that we just cannot keep hidden? Arrogance, lack of charity, fault-finding - and all this kept under careful restraint and disguised by a pious smile and synthetic good humor. This sort of thing is felt rather than understood by those who touch us in everyday life. They do not know why they cannot stand us, but we are sure that the reason is our exalted state of spirituality! Perilous comfort. Deep heart searching and prolonged repentance would be better."
Thank You, Lord, that You continue to correct, heal and mend me! I need only to stay in Your Word. "And all of us as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit." (II Cor. 3:18)
"Search me [thoroughly], O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if
there is any wicked or hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23,24) I need always to be repentant of my sins.
Thank You for Your active and enduring mercy and loving-kindness!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Don't Labor In Vain!
Reading: Psalms 120 - 135
My Verse: (127:1) "Except the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; except the Lord keeps the city, the watchman wakes but in vain."
This is an attribute of You, God, that I often struggle with - to wrap my mind around - to live my day to day life by. I must - to live a life victorious in You - trust not only that You, Lord are good but also that You are all wise. A.W. Tozer states it this way ". . . but our moral sanity requires that we attribute to the maker and sustainer of the universe a wisdom entirely perfect." How can we do otherwise, especially when dreadful things happen?
Because You, Lord, are all wise I then must make sure that I do not devote my time and attentions to anything that You are not in ". . . they labor in vain who build it." There are so many seemingly good causes out there that can totally absorb one. Help me, Lord, to be discerning here. Oh, Lord, help me to seek out Your direction in all things. Help me to trust in You - that all that You do is for my good and everlasting well-being. Sometimes I want so much to 'fix' things, sometimes things happen that I can see no good coming out of, but You, Lord, are all wise and while man does do some horrible things nothing is out of Your ability to heal, to turn around. Thank You for this, Lord.
I sometimes feel so inadequate to follow You . But You have promised to lead and guide me. "And I will bring the blind by a way that they know not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known. I will make darkness into light before them and make uneven places into a plain. These things I have determined to do [for them]; and I will not leave them forsaken." (Isaiah 42:16)
What a blessed promise! I know that I can entrust my way to, You. For You, Lord can be trusted. ". . . for I know Him Whom I have believed . . ." (II Timothy 1:12)
"The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore." (Psalm 121:8) I needn't labor in vain!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (127:1) "Except the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; except the Lord keeps the city, the watchman wakes but in vain."
This is an attribute of You, God, that I often struggle with - to wrap my mind around - to live my day to day life by. I must - to live a life victorious in You - trust not only that You, Lord are good but also that You are all wise. A.W. Tozer states it this way ". . . but our moral sanity requires that we attribute to the maker and sustainer of the universe a wisdom entirely perfect." How can we do otherwise, especially when dreadful things happen?
Because You, Lord, are all wise I then must make sure that I do not devote my time and attentions to anything that You are not in ". . . they labor in vain who build it." There are so many seemingly good causes out there that can totally absorb one. Help me, Lord, to be discerning here. Oh, Lord, help me to seek out Your direction in all things. Help me to trust in You - that all that You do is for my good and everlasting well-being. Sometimes I want so much to 'fix' things, sometimes things happen that I can see no good coming out of, but You, Lord, are all wise and while man does do some horrible things nothing is out of Your ability to heal, to turn around. Thank You for this, Lord.
I sometimes feel so inadequate to follow You . But You have promised to lead and guide me. "And I will bring the blind by a way that they know not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known. I will make darkness into light before them and make uneven places into a plain. These things I have determined to do [for them]; and I will not leave them forsaken." (Isaiah 42:16)
What a blessed promise! I know that I can entrust my way to, You. For You, Lord can be trusted. ". . . for I know Him Whom I have believed . . ." (II Timothy 1:12)
"The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore." (Psalm 121:8) I needn't labor in vain!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Let Me Not Wander
Reading: Psalm 119
My Verse: (119:10) "With my whole heart have I sought You, inquiring for and of You and yearning for You; O let me know wander or step aside [either in ignorance or willfully] from Your commandments."
This is my prayer, that I seek You with my whole heart continually. That You keep me from wandering away from You.
Sunday's message focused on Your command to "come to Me" (II Corinthians 6:17). The 'come' was not a one time event but implied that we are to keep on coming! I like that reminder because it is so easy to get distracted - to get caught up in this world's busyness. It constantly pulls at me. "Incline my heart to Your testimonies and not to covetousness." (119:36)
"Let your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [ including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forake nor let you down! [Assuredly not!]" (Hebrews 13:5)
Yes, Lord, I want to believe that. I want my life to reflect that belief, but it often does not. And it is here that I need to be careful not to rely on my own striving. Human striving is totally inadequate and only gets us into trouble. It is only through You and Your grace that I am able to be victorious. ". . . those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness [shall] reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ." (Romans 5:17)
So, "Hold me up, that I may be safe and have regard for Your statutes continually!" (119:117) For You alone are able to save me and enable me to understand Your great truths. "The entrance and unfolding of Your words give light; their unfolding gives understanding (discernment, and comprehension) to the simple." (119:130)
Thank You, Lord.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (119:10) "With my whole heart have I sought You, inquiring for and of You and yearning for You; O let me know wander or step aside [either in ignorance or willfully] from Your commandments."
This is my prayer, that I seek You with my whole heart continually. That You keep me from wandering away from You.
Sunday's message focused on Your command to "come to Me" (II Corinthians 6:17). The 'come' was not a one time event but implied that we are to keep on coming! I like that reminder because it is so easy to get distracted - to get caught up in this world's busyness. It constantly pulls at me. "Incline my heart to Your testimonies and not to covetousness." (119:36)
"Let your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [ including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and be satisfied with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forake nor let you down! [Assuredly not!]" (Hebrews 13:5)
Yes, Lord, I want to believe that. I want my life to reflect that belief, but it often does not. And it is here that I need to be careful not to rely on my own striving. Human striving is totally inadequate and only gets us into trouble. It is only through You and Your grace that I am able to be victorious. ". . . those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness [shall] reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ." (Romans 5:17)
So, "Hold me up, that I may be safe and have regard for Your statutes continually!" (119:117) For You alone are able to save me and enable me to understand Your great truths. "The entrance and unfolding of Your words give light; their unfolding gives understanding (discernment, and comprehension) to the simple." (119:130)
Thank You, Lord.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Corporate Worship
Reading: Psalms 109 - 118
My Verse: (111:1) "Praise the Lord (Hallelujah!) I will praise and give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart in the council of the upright and in the congregation."
Lord, when I first read Richard Foster's section on the Corporate Disciplines in his book The Celebration of Discipline I did so with some trepidation. Being a very private shy person I think I wanted to just keep my relationship with You that - private! As I have read and studied Your word and read other authors You have revealed to me the error in that thinking. While there is private worship and private intimacy between us, You also want me to be a part of the family.
Throughout scripture the church is referred to as the 'body' of Christ. We are individually referred to as parts -vital parts of that body. We need each other. "And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up to love and helpful deeds and noble activities. Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching." (Hebrews 10: 24,25) This directive was given to the church in a time when it was actually dangerous to gather as a group of believers - but it was that important.
There is something special that happens in a gathering of believers that does not happen in private worship. Thomas Kelly puts it this way: "A quickening Presence pervades us, breaking down some part of the special privacy and isolation of our individual lives and blending our spirits within a superindividual Life and Power. An objective, dynamic Presence enfolds us all, nourishes our souls, speaks glad, unutterable comfort with us, and quickens us in depths that had before been slumbering."
Yes, I have felt that. It has taken me awhile but I am finally learning to realize the blessing You want to give me through Your church by me attending church! Foster calls it "divine interpenetration - a deep inward fellowship."
So thank you, Lord, for bringing me along to this truth.
"He will bless those who reverently and worshipfully fear the Lord, both small and great." (115:13)
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (111:1) "Praise the Lord (Hallelujah!) I will praise and give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart in the council of the upright and in the congregation."
Lord, when I first read Richard Foster's section on the Corporate Disciplines in his book The Celebration of Discipline I did so with some trepidation. Being a very private shy person I think I wanted to just keep my relationship with You that - private! As I have read and studied Your word and read other authors You have revealed to me the error in that thinking. While there is private worship and private intimacy between us, You also want me to be a part of the family.
Throughout scripture the church is referred to as the 'body' of Christ. We are individually referred to as parts -vital parts of that body. We need each other. "And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up to love and helpful deeds and noble activities. Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching." (Hebrews 10: 24,25) This directive was given to the church in a time when it was actually dangerous to gather as a group of believers - but it was that important.
There is something special that happens in a gathering of believers that does not happen in private worship. Thomas Kelly puts it this way: "A quickening Presence pervades us, breaking down some part of the special privacy and isolation of our individual lives and blending our spirits within a superindividual Life and Power. An objective, dynamic Presence enfolds us all, nourishes our souls, speaks glad, unutterable comfort with us, and quickens us in depths that had before been slumbering."
Yes, I have felt that. It has taken me awhile but I am finally learning to realize the blessing You want to give me through Your church by me attending church! Foster calls it "divine interpenetration - a deep inward fellowship."
So thank you, Lord, for bringing me along to this truth.
"He will bless those who reverently and worshipfully fear the Lord, both small and great." (115:13)
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Monday, August 8, 2011
Worshipful Praise
Reading: Psalms 104 - 108
My Verse: (107:8.9) "Oh, that men would praise the Lord for His goodness and loving-kindness and His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with good."
These Psalms extol the wonders of God. They remind me of His majesty. They help me to think rightly of my God. "Bless the Lord, O my soul! You are clothed with honor and majesty -." (104:1)
Psalm 104 alone reminds me that it is because of You, God, alone that we and all that is exists!
Our church had a lawn concert last night. The weather was questionable but God blessed the time with beautiful sun. It was a wonderful time of listening to and singing along with songs of praise. It is a good thing to sing praises to You, O Lord!
"Give thanks to the Lord with the lyre; sing praises to Him with the harp of ten strings. Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully [on the strings] with a loud and joyful sound." (33:2,3)
I am not skilled in music but I truly enjoy worhip service. I am so blessed whenever I participate in a songs of praise service. " . . . for praise is becoming and appropriate for those who are upright [in heart]. " (33:1)
Thank You, Lord, for giving us this form of worship. Thank You, for all the skilled musicians out there who write the songs, put scripture to music and play the instruments at church services to help us worship You.
"There is no one like You, O Lord, and there is no God but You, as we have heard with our own ears." (1 Chronicles 17:20)
Yes, Lord, You alone are God and I will sing prasies to You!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (107:8.9) "Oh, that men would praise the Lord for His goodness and loving-kindness and His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with good."
These Psalms extol the wonders of God. They remind me of His majesty. They help me to think rightly of my God. "Bless the Lord, O my soul! You are clothed with honor and majesty -." (104:1)
Psalm 104 alone reminds me that it is because of You, God, alone that we and all that is exists!
Our church had a lawn concert last night. The weather was questionable but God blessed the time with beautiful sun. It was a wonderful time of listening to and singing along with songs of praise. It is a good thing to sing praises to You, O Lord!
"Give thanks to the Lord with the lyre; sing praises to Him with the harp of ten strings. Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully [on the strings] with a loud and joyful sound." (33:2,3)
I am not skilled in music but I truly enjoy worhip service. I am so blessed whenever I participate in a songs of praise service. " . . . for praise is becoming and appropriate for those who are upright [in heart]. " (33:1)
Thank You, Lord, for giving us this form of worship. Thank You, for all the skilled musicians out there who write the songs, put scripture to music and play the instruments at church services to help us worship You.
"There is no one like You, O Lord, and there is no God but You, as we have heard with our own ears." (1 Chronicles 17:20)
Yes, Lord, You alone are God and I will sing prasies to You!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Sunday, August 7, 2011
God Is Good
Reading: Psalm 94 - 103
My Verse: 100:5 "For the Lord is good; His mercy and loving- kindness are everlasting. His faithfulness and truth endure to all generations."
I so need to be constantly reminded of this attribute of You, Lord. You are good. Sometimes it is hard to see past the awfulness that is in this world. But as AW Tozer states: "THat God is good is taught or implied on every page of the Bible and must be received as an article of faith as impregnable as the throne of God. It is a foundation stone for all sound thought about God and is necessary to moral sanity."
What does it mean that You are good? The word 'good' is that word most English teachers ban because of overuse and lack of specific meaning. Yet You are good - and this means You are the sum total of perfection. Some of the words the dictionary uses are; salutary, wholesome, clever, bountiful, fertile, honorable, adequate, virtuous, right, kind, benevolent, loyal.
"You are good and kind and do good . . .". 119:68
"Praise the Lord! For the Lord is good . . .". 135:3
O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.". 136:1
Even Jesus said, "Why do you call me good? There is no one good - except God alone."
(Mark 10:18)
Such a wonderful truth - thank You , Lord for this reminder. I will meditate on this thoughout my day.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: 100:5 "For the Lord is good; His mercy and loving- kindness are everlasting. His faithfulness and truth endure to all generations."
I so need to be constantly reminded of this attribute of You, Lord. You are good. Sometimes it is hard to see past the awfulness that is in this world. But as AW Tozer states: "THat God is good is taught or implied on every page of the Bible and must be received as an article of faith as impregnable as the throne of God. It is a foundation stone for all sound thought about God and is necessary to moral sanity."
What does it mean that You are good? The word 'good' is that word most English teachers ban because of overuse and lack of specific meaning. Yet You are good - and this means You are the sum total of perfection. Some of the words the dictionary uses are; salutary, wholesome, clever, bountiful, fertile, honorable, adequate, virtuous, right, kind, benevolent, loyal.
"You are good and kind and do good . . .". 119:68
"Praise the Lord! For the Lord is good . . .". 135:3
O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.". 136:1
Even Jesus said, "Why do you call me good? There is no one good - except God alone."
(Mark 10:18)
Such a wonderful truth - thank You , Lord for this reminder. I will meditate on this thoughout my day.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Friday, August 5, 2011
Unite My Heart!
Reading: Pslams 85 - 93
My Verse: (86:11) "Teach me You way, O Lord, that I may walk and live in Your truth; direct and unite my heart [solely, reverently] to fear and honor Your name."
Oh, Lord, always You have something new for me in Your Word! I have read these Psalms numerous times and never saw the phrase "unite my heart." It is wonderful.
So often we let various things pull at us, distract our focus on You. Thank You, that You 'expose' us to our sins when we seek You. "Our iniquities, our secret heart and its sins [which we would so like to conceal even from ourselves]. You have set in the [revealing] light of Your countenance." (90:8)
You are a sovereign God. You are God alone. There is none other. You remind us of this throughout Your Word.
"I, and I alone, am God. . ." (Deut. 32:39)
"To Who will you compare me? Who is My equal?" (Isaiah 40:25)
"Who will not fear You and give You glory? You alone are Holy." (Revelation 15:4)
Thank You for Who You are - a holy, immutable God. I can be confident in my trust in You.
"He Who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust!" (91:1,2)
Yes, Lord, keep my heart ever united in You!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (86:11) "Teach me You way, O Lord, that I may walk and live in Your truth; direct and unite my heart [solely, reverently] to fear and honor Your name."
Oh, Lord, always You have something new for me in Your Word! I have read these Psalms numerous times and never saw the phrase "unite my heart." It is wonderful.
So often we let various things pull at us, distract our focus on You. Thank You, that You 'expose' us to our sins when we seek You. "Our iniquities, our secret heart and its sins [which we would so like to conceal even from ourselves]. You have set in the [revealing] light of Your countenance." (90:8)
You are a sovereign God. You are God alone. There is none other. You remind us of this throughout Your Word.
"I, and I alone, am God. . ." (Deut. 32:39)
"To Who will you compare me? Who is My equal?" (Isaiah 40:25)
"Who will not fear You and give You glory? You alone are Holy." (Revelation 15:4)
Thank You for Who You are - a holy, immutable God. I can be confident in my trust in You.
"He Who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust!" (91:1,2)
Yes, Lord, keep my heart ever united in You!
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
God Is Longsuffering
Reading: Psalm 78 - 84
My Verse: (84:11,12) "For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] grace and favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You [leaning and believing on You, committing all and confidently looking to You , and that without fear or misgiving]!"
Oh, Lord, Pslam 78 is such an accurate illustration of mankind - even today. You cry out to us to "Give ear, O my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth." (78:1) Yet like the Israelites in the wilderness we so easily forget the wonderful things You do for us. We greedily cry out for more and You in Your love and longsuffering give us what is often not the best. "So they ate and were well filled; he gave them what they craved and lusted after." (78:29)
Dear Lord, I marvel at your patience. You love us and want so much to enrich our lives. And yet we choose to go our own way and so You let us. "So I gave them up to their own hearts' lust and let them go after their own stuborn will, that they might follow their own counsel." (81:12) This is so tragic. We see too many believers taking this downward spiraling path.
Even in our own churches families are falling apart. It happens way too often. Oh, Lord, I do not take anything for granted. I must ever keep my eyes on You - by doing so, You will "bestow [present] grace and favor and [future] glory!" on me.
"My soul yearns, yes, even pines and is homesick for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out and sing for joy to the living God." (84:4)
Yes, I count my many blessings and am thankful for You, Lord.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (84:11,12) "For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] grace and favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You [leaning and believing on You, committing all and confidently looking to You , and that without fear or misgiving]!"
Oh, Lord, Pslam 78 is such an accurate illustration of mankind - even today. You cry out to us to "Give ear, O my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth." (78:1) Yet like the Israelites in the wilderness we so easily forget the wonderful things You do for us. We greedily cry out for more and You in Your love and longsuffering give us what is often not the best. "So they ate and were well filled; he gave them what they craved and lusted after." (78:29)
Dear Lord, I marvel at your patience. You love us and want so much to enrich our lives. And yet we choose to go our own way and so You let us. "So I gave them up to their own hearts' lust and let them go after their own stuborn will, that they might follow their own counsel." (81:12) This is so tragic. We see too many believers taking this downward spiraling path.
Even in our own churches families are falling apart. It happens way too often. Oh, Lord, I do not take anything for granted. I must ever keep my eyes on You - by doing so, You will "bestow [present] grace and favor and [future] glory!" on me.
"My soul yearns, yes, even pines and is homesick for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out and sing for joy to the living God." (84:4)
Yes, I count my many blessings and am thankful for You, Lord.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Into the Sanctuary of God
Reading: Psalm 70 - 77
My Verse: (73:16,17) "But when I considered how to understand this, it was too great an effort for me and too painful. Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood [for I considered] their end."
It is so often this way. There are many things I do not understand - I struggle but am simply unable to make sense of the situation or event. Here David was questioning why it is that wealthy powerful people who are ungodly seem to flourish. It is only when we go to You - "into the sanctuary of God" that understanding and peace comes.
This understanding isn't always what I am expecting because it often does not include the 'whys' but I am realizing this is because I may not be capable of dealing with that much information. You in Your great wisdom and love only provide me with what I am able to handle - mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
I also realize that this does not mean I am to just sit back and let things flow over me - 'trusting' You to bring me through. NO, I am to actively pursue You. I am to actively seek You out - reading Your Word, studying Your Word, praying, seeking fellowship with others, attending worship services. I am to place myself before You daily and at every opportunity.
"You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to honor and glory." (73:24)
"But it is good for me to draw near to God." (73:28)
Yes, I must enter into Your sanctuary for understanding.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (73:16,17) "But when I considered how to understand this, it was too great an effort for me and too painful. Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood [for I considered] their end."
It is so often this way. There are many things I do not understand - I struggle but am simply unable to make sense of the situation or event. Here David was questioning why it is that wealthy powerful people who are ungodly seem to flourish. It is only when we go to You - "into the sanctuary of God" that understanding and peace comes.
This understanding isn't always what I am expecting because it often does not include the 'whys' but I am realizing this is because I may not be capable of dealing with that much information. You in Your great wisdom and love only provide me with what I am able to handle - mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
I also realize that this does not mean I am to just sit back and let things flow over me - 'trusting' You to bring me through. NO, I am to actively pursue You. I am to actively seek You out - reading Your Word, studying Your Word, praying, seeking fellowship with others, attending worship services. I am to place myself before You daily and at every opportunity.
"You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to honor and glory." (73:24)
"But it is good for me to draw near to God." (73:28)
Yes, I must enter into Your sanctuary for understanding.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
God Cannot Abide Our Sin
Psalm 64 - 69
My Verse: (66:18) "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me."
Dear, Lord, forgive me. I so often belittle You. I so often rush into Your Holy Presence without a true sense of Who You really are.
You are Holy! The Psalms proclaim this over and over. You are so far above me and beyond my comprehension. I can only cry out like Isaiah. "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lifps, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." (Isaiah 6:5)
I like how A.W. Tozer summarizes our moral condition. "The moral shock suffered by us through our mighty break with the high will of heaven has left us all with a permanent trauma affecting every part of our nature. There is disease both in ourselves and in our environment." I can never be at a point where I can live my life without You enabling me, Lord - without You enabling me to live as You would have me to live.
I must ever do as Paul admonishes, "Examine and test and evaluate your own selves to see whether you are holding to your faith and showing the proper fruits of it." (II Corinthians 12:5)
Then cry out to You for mercy, "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your steadfast love; according to the multitude of Your tender mercy and loving-kindness blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly [and repeatedly] from my iniquity and guilt and cleanse me and make me wholly pure from my sin! For I am conscious of my transgressions, and I acknowledge them; my sin is ever before me." (Psalm 51:1-3)
Thank You, Lord, for Your tender mercies and grace.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (66:18) "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me."
Dear, Lord, forgive me. I so often belittle You. I so often rush into Your Holy Presence without a true sense of Who You really are.
You are Holy! The Psalms proclaim this over and over. You are so far above me and beyond my comprehension. I can only cry out like Isaiah. "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lifps, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." (Isaiah 6:5)
I like how A.W. Tozer summarizes our moral condition. "The moral shock suffered by us through our mighty break with the high will of heaven has left us all with a permanent trauma affecting every part of our nature. There is disease both in ourselves and in our environment." I can never be at a point where I can live my life without You enabling me, Lord - without You enabling me to live as You would have me to live.
I must ever do as Paul admonishes, "Examine and test and evaluate your own selves to see whether you are holding to your faith and showing the proper fruits of it." (II Corinthians 12:5)
Then cry out to You for mercy, "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your steadfast love; according to the multitude of Your tender mercy and loving-kindness blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly [and repeatedly] from my iniquity and guilt and cleanse me and make me wholly pure from my sin! For I am conscious of my transgressions, and I acknowledge them; my sin is ever before me." (Psalm 51:1-3)
Thank You, Lord, for Your tender mercies and grace.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Immutable!
Reading: Pslam 57 - 63
My Verse: (62:6) "He only is my Rock and my Salvation, He is my Defense and my Fortress, I shall not be moved."
Change is the very essence of our physical world - like how time just keeps dribbling away. I have no control. And I often fret over this constant change. There are times when one just wants things to stay as they are - however unreasonable that may be.
As I grow in You Lord I find that I fret less about change. I realize more and more that change is mostly a good thing. You use change to transform us. "And all of us . . . are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is the Spirit]." (II Corinthians 3:18)
I once had someone tell me that I seemed to have my feet on solid ground - I took that as a compliment for You Lord are the Rock that I stand on. It is so wonderful in this topsy turvy world to have sure footing from which to operate.
Yes, Lord, my immutable God, on You I can depend. "O God, You are my God, earnestly will I seek You; my inner self thirsts for You, my flesh longs and is faint for You, in a dry and weary land where no water is." (63:1)
You tell me to "Cast your burden on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be moved (made to slip, fall, or fail)." (Psalm 55:22)
Charles Wesley says it wonderfully, "And all things as they change proclaim The Lord eternally the same." Thank you, Lord, I do need to be reminded of Your immutability.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
My Verse: (62:6) "He only is my Rock and my Salvation, He is my Defense and my Fortress, I shall not be moved."
Change is the very essence of our physical world - like how time just keeps dribbling away. I have no control. And I often fret over this constant change. There are times when one just wants things to stay as they are - however unreasonable that may be.
As I grow in You Lord I find that I fret less about change. I realize more and more that change is mostly a good thing. You use change to transform us. "And all of us . . . are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is the Spirit]." (II Corinthians 3:18)
I once had someone tell me that I seemed to have my feet on solid ground - I took that as a compliment for You Lord are the Rock that I stand on. It is so wonderful in this topsy turvy world to have sure footing from which to operate.
Yes, Lord, my immutable God, on You I can depend. "O God, You are my God, earnestly will I seek You; my inner self thirsts for You, my flesh longs and is faint for You, in a dry and weary land where no water is." (63:1)
You tell me to "Cast your burden on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be moved (made to slip, fall, or fail)." (Psalm 55:22)
Charles Wesley says it wonderfully, "And all things as they change proclaim The Lord eternally the same." Thank you, Lord, I do need to be reminded of Your immutability.
Ditat Deus - God Enriches!
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