The sky

Psalm 19:1 KJV — To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.

God’s creation has been astounding me of late.

The very sky has been a daily reminder of the glory of God.

Psalm 8:3-5 NKJV — When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained, What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him? For You have made him a little lower than the angels, And You have crowned him with glory and honor.

Just think, God created all we can see and many more things we cannot.

Taking in the very incredible truths of scripture being testified by my surroundings, has brought me to a place of security.

Truly, the One who created all the Universe and set such delicate things in order like the water cycle, the human cell, the composition of breathable air…

How can I not worship?!

How can my finite mind not find comfort in an infinite God?

How can I allow doubt or worry?

Matthew 10:29 KJV — Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.

Matthew 10:31 KJV — Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Dear Lord Jesus,

How great is Your faithfulness! How amazing are Your works! You show us daily kindness. You provide for us in ways we do not expect. Lord Jesus, You alone are worthy of all praise, honor, and glory! Your name is great and greatly to be praised!! Amen.

Singing songs of praise

Sunday we sang a song which has blessed my heart every day since.

I’ve been singing the chorus throughout my day or listening to the version done by Keith & Kristyn Getty on their album Awaken the Dawn.

I wanted to share the lyrics with you.

STILL, MY SOUL BE STILL

Still my soul be still
And do not fear
Though winds of change may rage tomorrow
God is at your side
No longer dread
The fires of unexpected sorrow

God You are my God
And I will trust in You and not be shaken
Lord of peace renew
A steadfast spirit within me
To rest in You alone

Still my soul be still
Do not be moved
By lesser lights and fleeting shadows
Hold onto His ways
With shield of faith
Against temptations flaming arrows

Still my soul be still
Do not forsake
The Truth you learned in the beginning
Wait upon the Lord
And hope will rise As stars appear when day is dimm

I love how there’s so much scripture woven together in these lines.

Psalm 51:10 NKJV — Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

“Lord of peace renew
A steadfast spirit within me”

Psalm 112:7 NKJV — He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.

“God is at your side
No longer dread
The fires of unexpected sorrow”

Ephesians 6:16 NKJV — above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.

“Hold onto His ways
With shield of faith
Against temptations flaming arrows”

Psalm 131:2 NKJV — Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul, Like a weaned child with his mother; Like a weaned child is my soul within me.

“Still my soul be still”

Throughout scripture, in seasons of good and times of great trial, we see those who fear the Lord and cling to Him finding comfort and peace.

It’s true, there is a war going on all around us, a war between good and evil, for Satan will not stop trying to destroy God’s people through one thing or another, but our security, our foundation, our very lives belong to Christ Jesus.

Through His wonderful gift we can have life eternal in Heaven and the peace that passes all understanding on Earth.

It’s easy to forget the truths of scripture and allow ourselves to be robbed of God’s peace and joy.

I praise God for His blessings, especially things like worship music which replay His truths to my heart.

May your heart be lifted up this day my friend. 💜

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for this song and those who have sung it. Thank You for bringing it to our home through our worship leader. Thank You for Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Thank You for the truth that we find in Your Word, that we are secure in Your salvation. Lord Jesus, please comfort the hurting. Please protect the innocent. Lord, please renew the spirits of those who have become discouraged and mired down in the slough of doubt. Lord Jesus, shine through the darkness to the captive and touch their hearts. Let those who are lost be found. May our lives bring You glory this day. I love You, Jesus. Thank You for loving me first. Amen.

Always an opportunity

I love how God never changes.

He is worthy of all our trust.

He’s been teaching me there is always something to be thankful for.

There’s always an opportunity to praise Him.

Yesterday, I was thankful for provision.

Despite being really tired all day, He supplied me with enough energy to do what was required.

The day before, I was thankful for the kindness of our pastor, who dropped everything to jump start our daughter’s SUV and then follow her home, just to make sure she was alright.

Wednesday, I was thankful for medical professionals as I got my shots and Anne had a three hour lab test.

The list goes on, because each day held more than one opportunity for me to be thankful.

I’m certain there were some opportunities to praise God which slipped by my notice, because there’s that many.

God’s blessings surround us daily and it’s incredible.

It used to be that I missed so many opportunities to be filled with gratitude.

Instead of looking at the ways God was providing, I only focused upon the things which I didn’t like, didn’t want, or upset me.

When the Lord corrected my perspective, I realized all the missed opportunities and repented.

He forgave me!

(What a gracious, merciful, and understanding God He is!)

He’s been teaching me not get tangled up with the emotions, but to be honest with what I’m feeling, and seek His face for the opportunity He has in the circumstance I’m in.

For this life is not my own, it belongs to Jesus.

He bought it at such a high price.

With the knowledge of His goodness I can rest in knowing no matter what, He is working and I have an opportunity to praise Him.

Psalm 9:11 KJV — Sing praises to the LORD, which dwelleth in Zion: declare among the people his doings.

I can also walk through this life with security, my soul is safe in His salvation.

Isaiah 12:2 KJV — Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your blessings. Thank You for sustaining us and caring for us continually. Lord, thank You for providing so many opportunities to praise You! Lord, I again confess my past sin of missing You because I was focused on the wrong thing. Lord, thank You for Your forgiveness. Thank You for helping me learn to look forward to new opportunities to be thankful while continuing to praise You for Your past blessings. Lord Jesus, I know You are all mighty, and You do things beyond my understanding. I know Your truth is life and Your blessings are innumerable. Thank You for all the ways You have blessed me and for another day to continue to praise You.

Psalm 22:25-27 NKJV — My praise shall be of You in the great assembly; I will pay My vows before those who fear Him. The poor shall eat and be satisfied; Those who seek Him will praise the LORD. Let your heart live forever! All the ends of the world Shall remember and turn to the LORD, And all the families of the nations Shall worship before You.

Amen!

We have reason to rejoice

1 Chronicles 16:10 KJV — Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.

It’s not enough to simply seek Him, we should be rejoicing as we do, for He deserves all glory and honor.

1 Chronicles 16:31 KJV — Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The LORD reigneth.

Recalling that He made us, and His kingdom has no end are reasons to rejoice.

Psalm 5:11 KJV — But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.

These governments and nations we now know are temporary, but God and His kingdom are eternal.

Psalm 9:2 KJV — I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High.

We find both security and joy in placing our trust in God Most High.

Psalm 13:5 KJV — But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.

Jesus is our Savior and truly worthy of praise!

Habakkuk 3:18 KJV — Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.

No matter the circumstances facing each one of us, we can choose to rejoice in God Almighty, remembering and praising Him.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You for Your Word! Thank You for salvation! Lord, You are worthy of all praise, all glory. I thank You for how You sustain us and provide for us. Thank You that we can rejoice in You and trust in Your Word. This world is not the end and no matter the pain or suffering we experience here, we have so much to look forward to in Heaven. Thank You, Jesus! Amen.

The gift of praise

Psalm 30:12 KJV — To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.

Through trials and tribulations, through blessings and abundance, through seasons of change, throughout my days, if I have learned anything it is the gift of praise.

When I’m suffering, I find the greatest comfort in praising God.

Psalm 42:5 KJV — Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.

When experiencing unexpected provision, it is a natural response to praise God.

Psalm 69:30 KJV — I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.

God’s Word has taught me to seek and praise the Lord in all circumstances, every phase of life.

Psalm 56:4 KJV — In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.

Psalm 56:10 KJV — In God will I praise his word: in the LORD will I praise his word.

And it’s truly a great gift.

For through praise, thanksgiving, and worship I find peace.

While praising God, I am reminded of His greatness and faithfulness.

Through praise, I am brought back to a correct perspective.

While praising God, my heart finds security in truth.

Psalm 147:1 KJV — Praise ye the LORD: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely.

Praising the Lord is a gift for all seasons.

May you too find the blessings of the gift of praising our Lord Jesus.

Isaiah 61:11 KJV — For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You so much for Your Word! Thank You for teaching me how to praise You in every area of my life. Lord, thank You that when I am afraid, struggling, or in pain I can still praise You. Thank You for helping me find such truth, peace, and joy in praise. Lord, please continue to teach me how to understand Your Word and apply it to my life. Thank You that Your ways are perfect and Your truth is life eternal. Thank You for Your sacrifice which opens the way for our souls to be safe with You. I praise Your holy name, Jesus! May all the earth rejoice in the salvation of our Lord! Amen.

November 20

Today’s prayer:

The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: And in keeping of them there is great reward. Who can understand his errors? Cleanse thou me from secret faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me: Then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
Psalm 19:7‭-‬14 KJV

Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for the truth within. Lord, these words in Psalms 19 are my humble prayer this morning. Lord, Your law is perfect. Please help me to follow it daily. I want to be wise through knowledge of Your testimonies. Teach me Your statutes continually. Please cause my way to be lit by Your truth, that I might walk in Your Word. Lord, help me to trust You in all things, knowing that mankind is not just nor righteous, but You are and You see all. Please let me place my expectations in Your mercy and grace, for Your judgements are true and right. Lord, I want nothing of this earth save what You choose to place in my life, for You are the lasting treasure. Please cleanse me of my secret faults, those things even I am blind too. Please keep me from presumptuous sins, place a guard over my lips, and a protection over my heart, that I might not sin against You. Please show me my error quickly, that I might repent and leave me not in the place of arrogance, for many pride has taken. Lord Jesus, my strength and my Redeemer, You are great and greatly to be praised. With my every breath I want my heart to praise You. I love You, Jesus. Amen.

Out of the mouths of babes…

When our oldest was an only child we got a video camera.

I wanted to make home movies to help us catalog her growing up.

As her siblings were born, they too were caught on video.

But the recorder broke when they were still small.

I didn’t throw it away, I packed it for a future day when we’d get it fixed.

To be honest, I’d forgotten about the thing, until last night.

Handsome found it in the back of our closet.

I was uninterested, as I knew we’d drug the thing, still broken from one place to another, but I’d never gotten it fixed.

When our son came back out of the bedroom to tell me Daddy had it working I was sincerely shocked.

“But it’s been broken for over 10 years!”

“Dad has it playing. Come and see.”

All packing stopped and we spent the evening watching home movies on our recorder.

We laughed.

We cried.

It was really special.

It’s strange how the memory can forget things.

I remembered music was a big part of our everyday, but I was surprised at how many videos included music.

Of course there were the normal Christmas programs and a school program, but when we were just at home there was so many of our daughters singing and dancing to music.

My heart was so blessed by the joy on their faces and the sound of their voices.

This morning the Lord took me to:

Psalm 8:2 NKJV — Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have ordained strength, Because of Your enemies, That You may silence the enemy and the avenger.

And my heart is full of gratitude.

What an incredible privilege it is to praise the Lord!

What a joy it was to hear our children sing songs of praise.

How grateful I am for the opportunity we still have to praise God daily.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You so much for the ability to praise and worship You. Lord, thank You for Your blessings which are more numerous than the stars. Thank You for the way Your Word brings us life, truth, and love. Lord, I worship Your holy name and I thank You for the breath to be able to speak Your praises. Psalm 8:9 NKJV — O LORD, our Lord, How excellent is Your name in all the earth! Amen.

A Father’s love

Isaiah 12:1 NKJV — And in that day you will say: “O LORD, I will praise You; Though You were angry with me, Your anger is turned away, and You comfort me.

Isaiah 12:2 NKJV — Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; ‘For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.’ ”

Isaiah 12:3 NKJV — Therefore with joy you will draw water From the wells of salvation.

Isaiah 12:4 NKJV — And in that day you will say: “Praise the LORD, call upon His name; Declare His deeds among the peoples, Make mention that His name is exalted.

Isaiah 12:5 NKJV — Sing to the LORD, For He has done excellent things; This is known in all the earth.

Isaiah 12:6 NKJV — Cry out and shout, O inhabitant of Zion, For great is the Holy One of Israel in your midst!”

God is our perfect heavenly father and his love for us is incredible.

The person speaking to the LORD begins with the acknowledgement that God was angry with them.

For what parent wants to see their child harm each other or themselves?

When we sin, we are choosing to harm both, and it doesn’t please the Lord.

But the words don’t end there:

…”Though You were angry with me, Your anger is turned away, and You comfort me.”

Through Jesus’s gift, we can have salvation:

“‘Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; ‘For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.'”

And it’s this understanding which ignites praise, worship, and sharing:

“Sing to the LORD, For He has done excellent things; This is known in all the earth.”

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You so much for Your love. Thank You that You are a good father and You didn’t leave us when we chose to sin, but instead You made a way for us to be saved. Lord, I don’t want to sin against You, nor do I want to fall into sin by ignorance or carelessness. Please help me to “draw water From the wells of salvation” with joy daily. Truly understanding Your will for each day and walking humbly in Your Word. Thank You so much for Your gift of salvation! I praise Your holy name, Jesus! Amen.

Today

Today is a gift from God.

We neither live in yesterday nor in tomorrow.

We only live in today.

God’s infinite and incredible creation was done one day at a time.

He knew we need to do life one-day-at-a-time.

And it’s a waste to try to get into a different time or season than we are in.

Because living is a daily gift.

While living in today, let us remember Who gave us this gift and honor Him with the way we live it.

Let us never waste the incredible blessing of today.

Psalm 118:24 NKJV — This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 7:17 KJV — I will praise the LORD according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high.

Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for today. Thank You for being our Savior. Lord, we look to You and find all that we need. Thank You that we can always find security in You. You are our refuge and strength. Lord, please help us to be wise as we live in today. Please help us to hide Your Word in our hearts. Please bring it to remembrance when we are in need, that we might live unto You each day. Lord, thank You for Your guidance, faithfulness, and love. I praise Your holy name! I love You!! Amen.

A new routine

Our family has been slowly adjusting to this new season.

Of course we still miss our Anne, but Grandma is so thankful for the help.

(She’s doing very well, and the doctor removed the stitches yesterday. Praise the Lord!)

Jase and I are coming around to a new routine.

Which has included furniture.

I’ve been thankful for the ability to spend many of my early mornings working in the garage.

The rest of the day is spent in homeschooling and housekeeping.

Jase is learning to do more cooking, which has been a blessing.

Through it all, we are learning, stretching, and seeking the Lord.

Because we want to follow His lead and we want to make changes based on Him.

As we continue to walk through the summer, I’m reminded to praise God.

For wherever we are and whatever is occurring, He is worthy of praise.

Psalm 18:3 KJV — I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank You so much for Your faithfulness! You are worthy of all our praise, all our worship belongs to You. Lord, You are our Savior, the Lamb of God. Thank You! Lord, as we walk in this day, please continue to help us to worship, to remain steadfast in Your ways. Lord, when we are struggling with things, please remind us of Your goodness, Your glory, Your holiness and love. Lord, please set a guard over our eyes, that we might not look on evil. Please set a guard on our hearts and lips that we might harm others with our words. Thank You for Your amazing love, mercy, and grace. I praise Your holy name, Jesus! Amen.