May 31, 2010
Read Psalms 122 - 134
Ps 129:1-2
From my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me.
Let all Israel repeat this:
2 From my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me,
but they have never defeated me.
Ps 134
1 A song of ascents.
Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD
who minister by night in the house of the LORD.
2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary
and praise the LORD.
3 May the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth,
bless you from Zion.
IMAGINE something really crazy. The picture is this: You get up early on Sunday morning. You dress for church. The kids are up and everyone is ready to leave about 2 hours before church starts. And you leave for church because you need all that time to get there. Why?
You are going to walk to church. But you and your family don’t walk alone. As you walk down each block of your journey to church, people come from the homes and apartments along the way. Block by block the throng of people increases, and songs spontaneously arise from the crowd.
You and your fellow Christ-followers sing because you are excited and joyful! You praise God with your music. The songs’ words remind you and tell bystanders along the way of how God has cared for you and his church in times of strife and turmoil. The songs tell of his amazing love that rescues people and makes them new. And the songs offer praise to the minister and to those who lead the church. Your songs celebrate a victorious past and anticipate a joyful future.
These psalms in today’s readings are called Psalms of Ascents or the Pilgrim Psalms. They are songs the Hebrews sang as they journeyed together, towns joining towns, on annual pilgrimages to the great Feasts of Passover, Pentecost and Tabernacles. They are songs the Hebrews sang as they returned from the 70-year exile in Babylon. They are songs of victory, peace and joy.
They sang these songs to remind them of and to celebrate God’s great mercy and love over them.
Imagine, my friends, the comfort and peace you would experience each Sunday if your church would join in such an attitude of celebration, praise and trust for God.
Your heart would be glad. You would “Lift up your hands in the sanctuary”. And you would feel God’s blessings on your heart and in your soul. Life’s “mountains” would be mere ant hills. “Despair” would be a foreign word. “Hopelessness” is gone. And you would truly know the meaning of Jesus words, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10
Thank you, Father, for your great love, a love we can trust to deliver us into a full life with you.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Out of Harm's Way
May 27, 2010
Read Psalms 120 – 121
Ps 121:7-8
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm —
he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
CAN YOU trust this scripture? “The LORD will keep you from all harm”. How does that fit into the reality of life? After all, harm comes to all of us in some way. Sometimes in small ways, sometimes in giant ways harm breaks in and we wonder, “Where is God? What about his promise? Is he really worth trusting and following?”
Is this some great, empty hope, or is it really true that “The LORD will keep you from all harm”?
It is true harm comes to our mortal lives. We cannot escape it because of a sin we might commit or what sin people might commit against us. But the “harm” the psalmist refers to is beyond our temporary trouble. He is referring to the eternal harm of condemnation and death without God.
Perhaps a more clear view of this verse is in the New King James Version: “The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul.”
This is the eternal truth that we must focus on, even in dark days of harm. How do we know it is true? We know because God allowed harm to come to his own Son that we might be saved for all eternity.
When you think you are horribly persecuted, when you are feeling sorry for yourself and wondering, “Why me, God?” Just stop and think of “Why the cross?”
And know this: The harm of the cross is for you. You, my friend, your sin, sent Jesus into harm’s way, a horrible death.
And the harm that came to him has released you from harm forevermore. Amen.
---Enjoy a blessed Memorial Day weekend. Take time to honor our fallen soldiers and their families. In the pattern of our Lord, They went into harm’s way to protect you.
Read Psalms 120 – 121
Ps 121:7-8
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm —
he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
CAN YOU trust this scripture? “The LORD will keep you from all harm”. How does that fit into the reality of life? After all, harm comes to all of us in some way. Sometimes in small ways, sometimes in giant ways harm breaks in and we wonder, “Where is God? What about his promise? Is he really worth trusting and following?”
Is this some great, empty hope, or is it really true that “The LORD will keep you from all harm”?
It is true harm comes to our mortal lives. We cannot escape it because of a sin we might commit or what sin people might commit against us. But the “harm” the psalmist refers to is beyond our temporary trouble. He is referring to the eternal harm of condemnation and death without God.
Perhaps a more clear view of this verse is in the New King James Version: “The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul.”
This is the eternal truth that we must focus on, even in dark days of harm. How do we know it is true? We know because God allowed harm to come to his own Son that we might be saved for all eternity.
When you think you are horribly persecuted, when you are feeling sorry for yourself and wondering, “Why me, God?” Just stop and think of “Why the cross?”
And know this: The harm of the cross is for you. You, my friend, your sin, sent Jesus into harm’s way, a horrible death.
And the harm that came to him has released you from harm forevermore. Amen.
---Enjoy a blessed Memorial Day weekend. Take time to honor our fallen soldiers and their families. In the pattern of our Lord, They went into harm’s way to protect you.
Set Your Heart Free
May 26, 2010
Read Psalms 119
Ps 119:28 My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.
Ps 119:32 I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free.
Ps 119:97 Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.
SORROW comes to us in many forms. A death in the family, relationships ending, divorce, job loss, and health loss are a few.
What do we do when sorrow strikes? I’ve seen many people just give up. The loss breaks them down. The weight of grief destroys their energy and sucks up their hope. Sorrow steals their passion and energy. Sorrow clouds their mind and traps them in fear to try again, to live life.
What can we do?
I’ve seen others deal with sorrow with the victory of God’s commands. They know the reality of the psalmist’s prayers: “strengthen me according to your Word” because God’s commands are given to us to “set my heart free”. They read God’s word and see how much he loves them. They rejoice in the hope of the Gospel, and they live in the footsteps of the One who conquered sorrow on the cross.
Are you in sorrow today? Is the loss to heavy to bear? Of course it is. Sorrow is a terrible weight to carry.
But God has carried it for you. God’s commands are written down for you. They tell you how much he loves you. Follow the psalmist’s path. Meditate on God’s word, and you will fill your loss with the power and it will set your heart free.
Read Psalms 119
Ps 119:28 My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.
Ps 119:32 I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free.
Ps 119:97 Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.
SORROW comes to us in many forms. A death in the family, relationships ending, divorce, job loss, and health loss are a few.
What do we do when sorrow strikes? I’ve seen many people just give up. The loss breaks them down. The weight of grief destroys their energy and sucks up their hope. Sorrow steals their passion and energy. Sorrow clouds their mind and traps them in fear to try again, to live life.
What can we do?
I’ve seen others deal with sorrow with the victory of God’s commands. They know the reality of the psalmist’s prayers: “strengthen me according to your Word” because God’s commands are given to us to “set my heart free”. They read God’s word and see how much he loves them. They rejoice in the hope of the Gospel, and they live in the footsteps of the One who conquered sorrow on the cross.
Are you in sorrow today? Is the loss to heavy to bear? Of course it is. Sorrow is a terrible weight to carry.
But God has carried it for you. God’s commands are written down for you. They tell you how much he loves you. Follow the psalmist’s path. Meditate on God’s word, and you will fill your loss with the power and it will set your heart free.
Monday, May 24, 2010
His Love Endures Forever
May 25, 2010
Psalms 115 - 118
Psalm 118:1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. 2 Let Israel say: "His love endures forever." 3 Let the house of Aaron say: "His love endures forever." 4 Let those who fear the LORD say: "His love endures forever."
HIS LOVE, his love, his love, his love pours over you. His love does not stop when you feel alone. His love keeps coming when you are discouraged. His love spreads over your heart when it is empty.
His love: you see it in the hand of someone who helps an elderly person walk down the street. His love: you hear it in the voice of one who says, “How can I pray for you?” His love: you touch it when a loved one comes and sits beside you just to be beside you.
His love: You know it when someone corrects you from a wrong thing you do that harms you. His love: You find it in the first light of dawn on a warm spring day—winter is gone, new growth comes. His love: You know its power when a child comes and raises her arms to be picked up into your yours.
His love is an going-to-the-cross, I’ll die for you, I’ll come and save you kind of love. Weep, my friends, in joy that the Father loves you so deeply and eternally. Let your tears wash over you and embrace the happiness you feel. Let your gratitude for his love warm your soul and ease your mind.
His love: it’s free. For you. Just ask. And (You will not die but live, and (you) will proclaim what the LORD has done. (Ps 118:17)
Psalms 115 - 118
Psalm 118:1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. 2 Let Israel say: "His love endures forever." 3 Let the house of Aaron say: "His love endures forever." 4 Let those who fear the LORD say: "His love endures forever."
HIS LOVE, his love, his love, his love pours over you. His love does not stop when you feel alone. His love keeps coming when you are discouraged. His love spreads over your heart when it is empty.
His love: you see it in the hand of someone who helps an elderly person walk down the street. His love: you hear it in the voice of one who says, “How can I pray for you?” His love: you touch it when a loved one comes and sits beside you just to be beside you.
His love: You know it when someone corrects you from a wrong thing you do that harms you. His love: You find it in the first light of dawn on a warm spring day—winter is gone, new growth comes. His love: You know its power when a child comes and raises her arms to be picked up into your yours.
His love is an going-to-the-cross, I’ll die for you, I’ll come and save you kind of love. Weep, my friends, in joy that the Father loves you so deeply and eternally. Let your tears wash over you and embrace the happiness you feel. Let your gratitude for his love warm your soul and ease your mind.
His love: it’s free. For you. Just ask. And (You will not die but live, and (you) will proclaim what the LORD has done. (Ps 118:17)
Follow the Victor
May 24, 2010
Read Psalms 108 – 114
Ps 110:1 The LORD says to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand
until I make your enemies
a footstool for your feet."
HERE we see our Lord Jesus Christ. Yes, this is the “Old Testament”, but we know the Son of God is from eternal past, and David, to whom this Psalm is attributed, has been given a picture of Jesus’ ultimate reign over all the earth. The word “LORD” refers to the Father, and “Lord” refers to the Son.
We can find great comfort in this prophecy. David gives us an example of that comfort when he turns his eyes to “my Lord” as his enemies threaten his life. David looks beyond the immediate presence of death and sees the eternal future of life. Knowing he’s following one who is “arrayed in holy majesty from the womb of the dawn”, David has comfort in the confidence his Lord is the conqueror of all evil.
David saw the victory. He knew in the midst of dark days that his Lord would conquer all.
When we have this same knowledge in our hearts, our lives become lives of peace. We are secure knowing that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are the eternal strength in our lives. This strength overcomes any weakness, inadequacies and fear we may feel. And this strength leads us to victory.
Throughout the bible God shows he is the victor. Keep your eyes focused on him. When you do, he will lead you out of your fears and into peace. You follow the One “clothed in holy majesty”.
Read Psalms 108 – 114
Ps 110:1 The LORD says to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand
until I make your enemies
a footstool for your feet."
HERE we see our Lord Jesus Christ. Yes, this is the “Old Testament”, but we know the Son of God is from eternal past, and David, to whom this Psalm is attributed, has been given a picture of Jesus’ ultimate reign over all the earth. The word “LORD” refers to the Father, and “Lord” refers to the Son.
We can find great comfort in this prophecy. David gives us an example of that comfort when he turns his eyes to “my Lord” as his enemies threaten his life. David looks beyond the immediate presence of death and sees the eternal future of life. Knowing he’s following one who is “arrayed in holy majesty from the womb of the dawn”, David has comfort in the confidence his Lord is the conqueror of all evil.
David saw the victory. He knew in the midst of dark days that his Lord would conquer all.
When we have this same knowledge in our hearts, our lives become lives of peace. We are secure knowing that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are the eternal strength in our lives. This strength overcomes any weakness, inadequacies and fear we may feel. And this strength leads us to victory.
Throughout the bible God shows he is the victor. Keep your eyes focused on him. When you do, he will lead you out of your fears and into peace. You follow the One “clothed in holy majesty”.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Leaving a Legacy by Jim Rohm
Leaving a Legacy - Principles to Live By by Jim Rohn
You know me, I am a philosopher. I love principles. Yes, actions are great and I talk about them regularly, but the important stuff is what lies underneath--the principles.
Here are what I consider to be the principles that we must commit to if we are to leave the legacy we desire:
1. Life is best lived in service to others. This doesn't mean that we do not strive for the best for ourselves. It does mean that in all things we serve other people, including our family, co-workers and friends.
2. Consider others' interests as important as your own. Much of the world suffers simply because people consider only their own interests. People are looking out for number one, but the way to leave a legacy is to also look out for others.
3. Love your neighbor even if you don't like him. It is interesting that Jesus told us to love others. But he never tells us to like them. Liking people has to do with emotions. Loving people has to do with actions. And what you will find is that when you love them and do good by them, you will more often than not begin to like them.
4. Maintain integrity at all costs. There are very few things you take to the grave with you. The number one thing is your reputation and good name. When people remember you, you want them to think, "She was the most honest person I knew. What integrity." There are always going to be temptations to cut corners and break your integrity. Do not do it. Do what is right all of the time, no matter what the cost.
5. You must risk in order to gain. In just about every area of life you must risk in order to gain the reward. In love, you must risk rejection in order to ask that person out for the first time. In investing you must place your capital at risk in the market in order to receive the prize of a growing bank account. When we risk, we gain. And when we gain, we have more to leave for others.
6. You reap what you sow. In fact, you always reap more than you sow--you plant a seed and reap a bushel. What you give you get. What you put into the ground then grows out of the ground. If you give love you will receive love. If you give time, you will gain time. It is one of the truest laws of the universe. Decide what you want out of life and then begin to sow it.
7. Hard work is never a waste. No one will say, "It is too bad he was such a good, hard worker." But if you aren't they will surely say, "It's too bad he was so lazy - he could have been so much more!" Hard work will leave a grand legacy. Give it your all on your trip around the earth. You will do a lot of good and leave a terrific legacy.
8. Don't give up when you fail. Imagine what legacies would have never existed if someone had given up. How many thriving businesses would have been shut down if they quit at their first failure? Everyone fails. It is a fact of life. But those who succeed are those who do not give up when they fail. They keep going and build a successful life - and a legacy.
9. Don't ever stop in your pursuit of a legacy. Many people have accomplished tremendous things later on in life. There is never a time to stop in your pursuit of a legacy. Sometimes older people will say, "I am 65. I'll never change." That won't build a great life! No, there is always time to do more and achieve more, to help more and serve more, to teach more and to learn more. Keep going and growing that legacy!
These are core principles to live by if you want to become the kind of person who leaves a lasting legacy. Thank you Jim Rohn for your legacy and your words that will continue to motivate and inspire us forever!
You know me, I am a philosopher. I love principles. Yes, actions are great and I talk about them regularly, but the important stuff is what lies underneath--the principles.
Here are what I consider to be the principles that we must commit to if we are to leave the legacy we desire:
1. Life is best lived in service to others. This doesn't mean that we do not strive for the best for ourselves. It does mean that in all things we serve other people, including our family, co-workers and friends.
2. Consider others' interests as important as your own. Much of the world suffers simply because people consider only their own interests. People are looking out for number one, but the way to leave a legacy is to also look out for others.
3. Love your neighbor even if you don't like him. It is interesting that Jesus told us to love others. But he never tells us to like them. Liking people has to do with emotions. Loving people has to do with actions. And what you will find is that when you love them and do good by them, you will more often than not begin to like them.
4. Maintain integrity at all costs. There are very few things you take to the grave with you. The number one thing is your reputation and good name. When people remember you, you want them to think, "She was the most honest person I knew. What integrity." There are always going to be temptations to cut corners and break your integrity. Do not do it. Do what is right all of the time, no matter what the cost.
5. You must risk in order to gain. In just about every area of life you must risk in order to gain the reward. In love, you must risk rejection in order to ask that person out for the first time. In investing you must place your capital at risk in the market in order to receive the prize of a growing bank account. When we risk, we gain. And when we gain, we have more to leave for others.
6. You reap what you sow. In fact, you always reap more than you sow--you plant a seed and reap a bushel. What you give you get. What you put into the ground then grows out of the ground. If you give love you will receive love. If you give time, you will gain time. It is one of the truest laws of the universe. Decide what you want out of life and then begin to sow it.
7. Hard work is never a waste. No one will say, "It is too bad he was such a good, hard worker." But if you aren't they will surely say, "It's too bad he was so lazy - he could have been so much more!" Hard work will leave a grand legacy. Give it your all on your trip around the earth. You will do a lot of good and leave a terrific legacy.
8. Don't give up when you fail. Imagine what legacies would have never existed if someone had given up. How many thriving businesses would have been shut down if they quit at their first failure? Everyone fails. It is a fact of life. But those who succeed are those who do not give up when they fail. They keep going and build a successful life - and a legacy.
9. Don't ever stop in your pursuit of a legacy. Many people have accomplished tremendous things later on in life. There is never a time to stop in your pursuit of a legacy. Sometimes older people will say, "I am 65. I'll never change." That won't build a great life! No, there is always time to do more and achieve more, to help more and serve more, to teach more and to learn more. Keep going and growing that legacy!
These are core principles to live by if you want to become the kind of person who leaves a lasting legacy. Thank you Jim Rohn for your legacy and your words that will continue to motivate and inspire us forever!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Rlease from Captivity
May 22, 2010
Psalms 106 – 107
Psalms 107:10-13, 20
10 Some sat in darkness and the deepest gloom,
prisoners suffering in iron chains,
11 for they had rebelled against the words of God
and despised the counsel of the Most High.
12 So he subjected them to bitter labor;
they stumbled, and there was no one to help.
13 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
and he saved them from their distress.
20 He sent forth his word and healed them;
he rescued them from the grave.
THE PSALMIST paints a dark picture. The prisoner is chained down in a dark cell. I can see him on a bare cot, bent over by the weight of his captivity. He receives minimal food each day. He is dirty and in rags. There is silence because he is alone. He has no hope for release.
What is his crime? He has turned from God. He has sought his own preferences and ignored God’s commands. He has out rightly disobeyed, committing moral and material sins, and he has passively disobeyed, failing to seek God’s Word for his life and turning from those who offer God’s care of prayer and teaching.
The weight of his life away from God locks him down. His heart, soul and mind is empty of hope. He is ignorant of the path to freedom.
But then, miraculously one day, the jailer doesn’t come to feed him. There is one who comes bearing the Bread of Life. Perhaps it’s a minister, perhaps it’s an old friend, or perhaps it’s a total stranger who wants to give this prisoner the key to freedom.
The Bread bearer tells of God’s great love and compassion. He shares the miracle of his freedom-bearing Son who came to “proclaimed release for the captives” (Luke 4:18).
And for the first time in his life, he begins to feel his shackles loosen. The Bread of Life fills his no-longer empty heart. His mind receives the truth. His soul is restored.
The cell door swings open. The Bread bearer leads him out of his cell into the open air and glorious sunshine. And he goes forth in joy and hope to seek more Bread of Life.
My friend, have you been in the prison of disobedience as God’s people were? Then turn to the Father, to Jesus, his Son, the Bread of Life whose body was broken for you. His Word will “heal you and rescue you from the grave”.
Psalms 106 – 107
Psalms 107:10-13, 20
10 Some sat in darkness and the deepest gloom,
prisoners suffering in iron chains,
11 for they had rebelled against the words of God
and despised the counsel of the Most High.
12 So he subjected them to bitter labor;
they stumbled, and there was no one to help.
13 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
and he saved them from their distress.
20 He sent forth his word and healed them;
he rescued them from the grave.
THE PSALMIST paints a dark picture. The prisoner is chained down in a dark cell. I can see him on a bare cot, bent over by the weight of his captivity. He receives minimal food each day. He is dirty and in rags. There is silence because he is alone. He has no hope for release.
What is his crime? He has turned from God. He has sought his own preferences and ignored God’s commands. He has out rightly disobeyed, committing moral and material sins, and he has passively disobeyed, failing to seek God’s Word for his life and turning from those who offer God’s care of prayer and teaching.
The weight of his life away from God locks him down. His heart, soul and mind is empty of hope. He is ignorant of the path to freedom.
But then, miraculously one day, the jailer doesn’t come to feed him. There is one who comes bearing the Bread of Life. Perhaps it’s a minister, perhaps it’s an old friend, or perhaps it’s a total stranger who wants to give this prisoner the key to freedom.
The Bread bearer tells of God’s great love and compassion. He shares the miracle of his freedom-bearing Son who came to “proclaimed release for the captives” (Luke 4:18).
And for the first time in his life, he begins to feel his shackles loosen. The Bread of Life fills his no-longer empty heart. His mind receives the truth. His soul is restored.
The cell door swings open. The Bread bearer leads him out of his cell into the open air and glorious sunshine. And he goes forth in joy and hope to seek more Bread of Life.
My friend, have you been in the prison of disobedience as God’s people were? Then turn to the Father, to Jesus, his Son, the Bread of Life whose body was broken for you. His Word will “heal you and rescue you from the grave”.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
God's Nature
May 21, 2010
Read Psalms 104-105
Psalm 104:2 He wraps himself in light as with a garment;
THE PHRASE “Mother Nature” is a hateful thing to the Lord.
I know, that’s a strong to statement to make about a phrase constantly used in our culture, but it’s true. In Exodus 20:3, God commands, “You shall have no other gods before me.” “Mother Nature” is a phrase that says, “Nature is in control of itself. It is its own force and does what it does at its own whim.” The phrase makes God’s creation a god over him.
Psalm 104 is essentially about God’s sovereignty over nature. “He wraps himself in light.” Tells us that God opens the reality of his being for all to see. Look in the heavens, look on the land, look in the seas, and you will see God.
The stars, the rain, the clouds, the lion, the leviathan (great big animal – maybe a whale) act on God’s command.
This is true. The bible tells us right here and in many other places. Why is it so difficult in our culture to credit God for nature’s actions?
Sadly, this is another way we deny God’s control over all affairs. And when we do this, we are essentially saying to God, “You’re not there. You don’t matter.”
And when we say that, we keep God on the sidelines. We even keep him out of our homes and out of our thoughts. And then we can go and do whatever we want.
Mother Nature? No way. Sovereign God? Yes. He wraps himself in light to brilliantly display his wonders in nature.
My friends, this is “the LORD our God” (Ps 105:7). He is ours. He’s your God. Your God. Do you understand the one who created the heaven and the earth has come to you? Do not deny him with such hideous phrases as “Mother Nature” Instead,
“May (your) meditation be pleasing to him, as (you) rejoice in the LORD.” (Ps 104:34)
Do you see him? Do you honor him? Do you worship him?
Post Script: One phrase in Ps 104:15 is this: bread that sustains his heart.
When manufacturing removed whole grains from bread and also added preservatives, heart disease began to rise dramatically. Whole grain, natural bread was truly a heart-sustainer for thousands of years. Eat God’s diet. Your health will change dramatically.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Sing with Your Soul
May 20
Psalms 97-103
Ps 98:1
Sing to the LORD a new song,
for he has done marvelous things;
his right hand and his holy arm
have worked salvation for him.
HOW’S YOUR singing? Oh, I know you might sing off key, or you may sound terrific. That’s really not what I’m asking. I’m asking, “How’s your singing soul?”
When you sing to the Lord, do you sing with an understanding that your words, your voice, your attitude, your attention, and your soul belong to the Lord? I know, singing is a scary thing for many people. But think about who gave you a voice. Think about why he gave you a voice.
God gave you your voice so that you are able to communicate. In communicate is “commune”. In “commune” is “come together”. In “come together” is honor. And in “honor” is worship.
Sing to the Lord commune with him and to worship him. Sing to the Lord to give thanks that he loves you. Sing to the Lord to celebrate and welcome his Spirit. Sing to the Lord that he has come, has died, has risen and will come again to commune with you in person!
Forget your inhibitions. Let go of your nervousness and doubts. Lift your voice. Lift your heart. Lift your soul to make music to God. As it says in Psalms 103:1: Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
When you truly and deeply consider God’s eternal grace on you, you will sing to the Lord with your soul – you must. There’s no other way to respond.
Psalms 97-103
Ps 98:1
Sing to the LORD a new song,
for he has done marvelous things;
his right hand and his holy arm
have worked salvation for him.
HOW’S YOUR singing? Oh, I know you might sing off key, or you may sound terrific. That’s really not what I’m asking. I’m asking, “How’s your singing soul?”
When you sing to the Lord, do you sing with an understanding that your words, your voice, your attitude, your attention, and your soul belong to the Lord? I know, singing is a scary thing for many people. But think about who gave you a voice. Think about why he gave you a voice.
God gave you your voice so that you are able to communicate. In communicate is “commune”. In “commune” is “come together”. In “come together” is honor. And in “honor” is worship.
Sing to the Lord commune with him and to worship him. Sing to the Lord to give thanks that he loves you. Sing to the Lord to celebrate and welcome his Spirit. Sing to the Lord that he has come, has died, has risen and will come again to commune with you in person!
Forget your inhibitions. Let go of your nervousness and doubts. Lift your voice. Lift your heart. Lift your soul to make music to God. As it says in Psalms 103:1: Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
When you truly and deeply consider God’s eternal grace on you, you will sing to the Lord with your soul – you must. There’s no other way to respond.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Safe and Happy Shelter
May 19, 2010
Read Psalms 91-96
Ps 91:1-2
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge
and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
SAFETY. It’s a big concern, isn’t it? You want to be safe when you leave your home and when you return. You want your finances in a safe place. Your children need safe schools. You want “safe” relationships with family and friends. Safety is a wonderful blessing, isn’t it?
But sometimes our safety disappears. A friend last week was diagnosed with a serious illness that will keep her away from work for several weeks. She’s uncertain, hopeful, afraid and feeling “unsafe”, her health suddenly tenuous.
What do we do when life’s safety nets seem to disappear? The psalmist celebrates, worships and honors God’s strength. God is the place we go, and in him we will find the “shelter of the Almighty”, the refuge, the fortress in whom we trust.
Call on God, and the power of his enormous love reaches out to protect you. His arms are over you. No enemy no matter how strong can touch you because God, your refuge shelters you.
In the hymn “Beneath the Cross of Jesus” it says of the cross: “O safe and happy shelter, O refuge tried and sweet”
The shadow of the cross is over your life. Trust the cross. It cost God his only Son. And when a father has given his Son to save you from harm, from death, he’ll do anything to protect you when you trust him:
Ps 91:14-16 “Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him
and show him my salvation.”
My friends, trust God, his Word is true and strong. Oh yes, go forth today rejoicing in God’s unyielding, eternal safety around you.
Read Psalms 91-96
Ps 91:1-2
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge
and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
SAFETY. It’s a big concern, isn’t it? You want to be safe when you leave your home and when you return. You want your finances in a safe place. Your children need safe schools. You want “safe” relationships with family and friends. Safety is a wonderful blessing, isn’t it?
But sometimes our safety disappears. A friend last week was diagnosed with a serious illness that will keep her away from work for several weeks. She’s uncertain, hopeful, afraid and feeling “unsafe”, her health suddenly tenuous.
What do we do when life’s safety nets seem to disappear? The psalmist celebrates, worships and honors God’s strength. God is the place we go, and in him we will find the “shelter of the Almighty”, the refuge, the fortress in whom we trust.
Call on God, and the power of his enormous love reaches out to protect you. His arms are over you. No enemy no matter how strong can touch you because God, your refuge shelters you.
In the hymn “Beneath the Cross of Jesus” it says of the cross: “O safe and happy shelter, O refuge tried and sweet”
The shadow of the cross is over your life. Trust the cross. It cost God his only Son. And when a father has given his Son to save you from harm, from death, he’ll do anything to protect you when you trust him:
Ps 91:14-16 “Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him
and show him my salvation.”
My friends, trust God, his Word is true and strong. Oh yes, go forth today rejoicing in God’s unyielding, eternal safety around you.
Monday, May 17, 2010
God Your Home
May 18, 2010
Read Psalms 87-90
Ps 90:1
O Lord, you have always been our home.
WHAT IS home? A true home, a right home is a place where you are loved and cared for. It is a place where you can enjoy good food and a night’s rest to be refreshed. Home is a place we can always look to when we are lonely and uncertain about life’s events. A good home, a Godly home is a place of joy. Home is a place you are always, always welcome.
The psalmist call God “our home”. The evidence says this psalm was written in the time of Nehemiah, who guided the rebuilding of Jerusalem. God’s people had been away from their literal home for 70 years. And in many ways, they were away from God, their “home”, as well.
God, in effect, had shoved them out the door because they were rebellious children. They would not listen to him, and they did many evil things against God. So as a good parent must do, he sent his disobedient children away to learn a lesson, to learn they needed His truth, and they needed Him.
And now God has welcomed his children home. And Psalm 90 describes their longing for forgiveness. Their heart is broken and weary. They are ready to come home, to come to God.
And God says they may come. He welcomes his prodigal children home.
Are you away from God, your home? Then say to him, “I want to come home, God. I want to be with you and your other children. I want to honor you and do what you say. I want to be in a place of peace and joy.”
Say this, and God will say, “Come on in. I’ve been waiting for you.”
Read Psalms 87-90
Ps 90:1
O Lord, you have always been our home.
WHAT IS home? A true home, a right home is a place where you are loved and cared for. It is a place where you can enjoy good food and a night’s rest to be refreshed. Home is a place we can always look to when we are lonely and uncertain about life’s events. A good home, a Godly home is a place of joy. Home is a place you are always, always welcome.
The psalmist call God “our home”. The evidence says this psalm was written in the time of Nehemiah, who guided the rebuilding of Jerusalem. God’s people had been away from their literal home for 70 years. And in many ways, they were away from God, their “home”, as well.
God, in effect, had shoved them out the door because they were rebellious children. They would not listen to him, and they did many evil things against God. So as a good parent must do, he sent his disobedient children away to learn a lesson, to learn they needed His truth, and they needed Him.
And now God has welcomed his children home. And Psalm 90 describes their longing for forgiveness. Their heart is broken and weary. They are ready to come home, to come to God.
And God says they may come. He welcomes his prodigal children home.
Are you away from God, your home? Then say to him, “I want to come home, God. I want to be with you and your other children. I want to honor you and do what you say. I want to be in a place of peace and joy.”
Say this, and God will say, “Come on in. I’ve been waiting for you.”
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Be a Rescuer
May 17, 2010
Read Psalms 81-86
Psalms 82:3-7
3 Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless;
maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed.
4 Rescue the weak and needy;
deliver them from the hand of the wicked.
5 “They know nothing, they understand nothing.
They walk about in darkness;
all the foundations of the earth are shaken.”
PARENTS, TEACHERS, what do you do with children? In one word, what would you say is the main thing? My answer would be: Teach.
You have to teach children, don’t you. You teach them to walk, to say “Thank You.” to obey what you say. And you teach them so much more.
Do you give up when they don’t get it the first time? I hope you don’t. I’m sure you don’t.
These verses from Psalm 82 gave me a big wake up. I was really angry with some people today. They are new to Jesus, and they still do some really dumb things. I was ready to give up on them, turn them over to their darkness.
Then I read these verses. I saw “defend” “rescue” “deliver” and “weak”. And I was ashamed of my attitude. And I repent in my arrogance.
Certainly to God I am a weak sinner who needs to be delivered out of his weakness. I need God to rescue me.
He has called me to be a rescuer for others in darkness.
“Thank you, God, you’re not like me, ready to give up on me when I don’t get it. Thank you, God, you rescue me each day . May I be a rescuer for you.” Amen.
Read Psalms 81-86
Psalms 82:3-7
3 Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless;
maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed.
4 Rescue the weak and needy;
deliver them from the hand of the wicked.
5 “They know nothing, they understand nothing.
They walk about in darkness;
all the foundations of the earth are shaken.”
PARENTS, TEACHERS, what do you do with children? In one word, what would you say is the main thing? My answer would be: Teach.
You have to teach children, don’t you. You teach them to walk, to say “Thank You.” to obey what you say. And you teach them so much more.
Do you give up when they don’t get it the first time? I hope you don’t. I’m sure you don’t.
These verses from Psalm 82 gave me a big wake up. I was really angry with some people today. They are new to Jesus, and they still do some really dumb things. I was ready to give up on them, turn them over to their darkness.
Then I read these verses. I saw “defend” “rescue” “deliver” and “weak”. And I was ashamed of my attitude. And I repent in my arrogance.
Certainly to God I am a weak sinner who needs to be delivered out of his weakness. I need God to rescue me.
He has called me to be a rescuer for others in darkness.
“Thank you, God, you’re not like me, ready to give up on me when I don’t get it. Thank you, God, you rescue me each day . May I be a rescuer for you.” Amen.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Watch Your Mouth
May 14, 2010
Read Psalms 74-77
Ps 74:10 How long will the enemy mock you, O God? Will the foe revile your name forever?
THERE HAVE been many, many years when God was neglected and ignored in Israel. Within the hearts and minds of God’s own people there lived a desire for false gods that lead to wicked acts.
Also, there was an absence of devotion to God’s laws. People ignored his ways because they thought their way was better. Eventually God would come to his people and he would, in effect, answer the psalmist’s question and say, “Enough!” And his judgment would be hard on his people.
Then they would return to him—for a time. And eventually, they would turn away.
Does any of this sound familiar? Today, God is gone from our neighborhoods. He’s absent from our homes, and he’s left the cities and farms. Everywhere you turn people mock him. They say such awful things as: “I got enough God when I was in a Catholic school.” Or “I believe in God in my way.” Or “I don’t think God loves me. I lost my job.” Or “I really don’t like church—too many rules.” Or “Don’t you dare mention Jesus’ name when you pray in public.” Or “We need to tolerate those who do wrong.”
Well, you don’t have enough time to read all the ways people mock God. I just want you to pay attention to what you are saying—and doing—and living.
Please be careful. Please don’t mock him. God sent his Son to die for you. Oh my. Can he love us so much?
Read Psalms 74-77
Ps 74:10 How long will the enemy mock you, O God? Will the foe revile your name forever?
THERE HAVE been many, many years when God was neglected and ignored in Israel. Within the hearts and minds of God’s own people there lived a desire for false gods that lead to wicked acts.
Also, there was an absence of devotion to God’s laws. People ignored his ways because they thought their way was better. Eventually God would come to his people and he would, in effect, answer the psalmist’s question and say, “Enough!” And his judgment would be hard on his people.
Then they would return to him—for a time. And eventually, they would turn away.
Does any of this sound familiar? Today, God is gone from our neighborhoods. He’s absent from our homes, and he’s left the cities and farms. Everywhere you turn people mock him. They say such awful things as: “I got enough God when I was in a Catholic school.” Or “I believe in God in my way.” Or “I don’t think God loves me. I lost my job.” Or “I really don’t like church—too many rules.” Or “Don’t you dare mention Jesus’ name when you pray in public.” Or “We need to tolerate those who do wrong.”
Well, you don’t have enough time to read all the ways people mock God. I just want you to pay attention to what you are saying—and doing—and living.
Please be careful. Please don’t mock him. God sent his Son to die for you. Oh my. Can he love us so much?
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Time For New
“Behold, I will do a new thing; now it spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” – Isaiah 43:19
Wow
May 13, 2010
Read Psalms 70-73
Ps 71:22-23 I will praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, O my God; I will sing praise to you with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel. 23 My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you — I, whom you have redeemed. 24 My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long, for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion.
I AM THINKING right now of church—you know, that place where people go on Sunday. It’s the place where music is played, and songs are sung—kind of.
What I see in too many of us is “worship restraint”. Like shackles on a prisoner’s legs, we have shackles on our tongues. We’re scared someone might hear us singing. We’re afraid raising our hands might look dumb. We’re concerned we don’t know the words. We’re all looking at we. Or should I say, I’m looking at me.
In other words, when we come to worship God, we really don’t WORSHIP GOD, we guard ourselves and our emotions. We don’t want to offend anyone with outbursts of PRAISE! And we don’t want them to offend us.
The trouble is, I think we’re offending God.
David PRAISED God because he knew what mighty acts God had done. David’s lips praised God because he knew God had saved him from his enemies.
God had saved him from his enemies—think about that. God offers the same salvation to you. Your enemies may be a bad relationship with a child, a bitter memory of an angry parent, a frustration with perceived failure. And the list goes on.
Give those enemies to God. He rescues you from all types of enemies, even the enemy of death.
And when you do, and you understand what a great gift it is to be rescued from all your enemies, then unloose those shackles. Go to church and SHOUT FOR JOY. Clap your hands. Praise your God. Let him know you REJOICE in his faithfulness that frees you from your enemies, the things that take you away from him.
And when you do, you, too, will sing Ps 72:18-19 “Praise be to the LORD God, the God of Israel, who alone does marvelous deeds. 19 Praise be to his glorious name forever;
may the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen.”
So be it, Lord. Wow!
Read Psalms 70-73
Ps 71:22-23 I will praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, O my God; I will sing praise to you with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel. 23 My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you — I, whom you have redeemed. 24 My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long, for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion.
I AM THINKING right now of church—you know, that place where people go on Sunday. It’s the place where music is played, and songs are sung—kind of.
What I see in too many of us is “worship restraint”. Like shackles on a prisoner’s legs, we have shackles on our tongues. We’re scared someone might hear us singing. We’re afraid raising our hands might look dumb. We’re concerned we don’t know the words. We’re all looking at we. Or should I say, I’m looking at me.
In other words, when we come to worship God, we really don’t WORSHIP GOD, we guard ourselves and our emotions. We don’t want to offend anyone with outbursts of PRAISE! And we don’t want them to offend us.
The trouble is, I think we’re offending God.
David PRAISED God because he knew what mighty acts God had done. David’s lips praised God because he knew God had saved him from his enemies.
God had saved him from his enemies—think about that. God offers the same salvation to you. Your enemies may be a bad relationship with a child, a bitter memory of an angry parent, a frustration with perceived failure. And the list goes on.
Give those enemies to God. He rescues you from all types of enemies, even the enemy of death.
And when you do, and you understand what a great gift it is to be rescued from all your enemies, then unloose those shackles. Go to church and SHOUT FOR JOY. Clap your hands. Praise your God. Let him know you REJOICE in his faithfulness that frees you from your enemies, the things that take you away from him.
And when you do, you, too, will sing Ps 72:18-19 “Praise be to the LORD God, the God of Israel, who alone does marvelous deeds. 19 Praise be to his glorious name forever;
may the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen.”
So be it, Lord. Wow!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Despair to Delight
May 13, 2010
Read Psalms 66-69
Ps 69:29 But I am in pain and despair; lift me up, O God, and save me!
Ps 66:5 Come and see what God has done, his wonderful acts among men.
Ps 68:6 He gives the lonely a home to live in and leads prisoners out into happy freedom
Ps 68:35 How awesome is God as he comes from his sanctuary--
the God of Israel! He gives strength and power to his people. Praise God!
SO MUCH of the world, so many people I meet feel the anguish of Ps 69:29. “But I am in pain and despair; lift me up, O God, and save me!”
A phone call brings a plea. “Help me. Get me out of this mess.” It is more a cry of hopeless despair than a call for help. They desperately want a God who cares, but they can’t find him.
What do I say? What can you say to those you meet so deep in despair? First, I offer the invitation of Ps 66:5. “Come and see what God has done, his wonderful acts among men.” I tell them of God’s love. His Son dieing. His Spirit bringing life.
I then tell how he’s made a difference in my life—all the difference in my marriage, my parenting, my ministry—yes, my life.
And finally the fun part. I offer the same God to them and assure them the reality of Ps 68:6. That he does indeed “give the lonely a home to live in and leads prisoners out into happy freedom.”
Yes, to the trapped and imprisoned heart, the Gospel of God is freedom. Take hold of it to be your own. Give ii to others. And together celebrate Ps 68:35. “How awesome is God as he comes from his sanctuary--the God of Israel! He gives strength and power to his people. Praise God!”
Read Psalms 66-69
Ps 69:29 But I am in pain and despair; lift me up, O God, and save me!
Ps 66:5 Come and see what God has done, his wonderful acts among men.
Ps 68:6 He gives the lonely a home to live in and leads prisoners out into happy freedom
Ps 68:35 How awesome is God as he comes from his sanctuary--
the God of Israel! He gives strength and power to his people. Praise God!
SO MUCH of the world, so many people I meet feel the anguish of Ps 69:29. “But I am in pain and despair; lift me up, O God, and save me!”
A phone call brings a plea. “Help me. Get me out of this mess.” It is more a cry of hopeless despair than a call for help. They desperately want a God who cares, but they can’t find him.
What do I say? What can you say to those you meet so deep in despair? First, I offer the invitation of Ps 66:5. “Come and see what God has done, his wonderful acts among men.” I tell them of God’s love. His Son dieing. His Spirit bringing life.
I then tell how he’s made a difference in my life—all the difference in my marriage, my parenting, my ministry—yes, my life.
And finally the fun part. I offer the same God to them and assure them the reality of Ps 68:6. That he does indeed “give the lonely a home to live in and leads prisoners out into happy freedom.”
Yes, to the trapped and imprisoned heart, the Gospel of God is freedom. Take hold of it to be your own. Give ii to others. And together celebrate Ps 68:35. “How awesome is God as he comes from his sanctuary--the God of Israel! He gives strength and power to his people. Praise God!”
Monday, May 10, 2010
Enemies at Your Door?
May 11, 2010
Read Psalms 58-65
Ps 59:5 Rise, LORD God Almighty, and come to my aid; see for yourself, God of Israel! Wake up and punish the heathen.
Ps 59:8-9 But you laugh at them, LORD; you mock all the heathen.
9 I have confidence in your strength; you are my refuge, O God.
Ps 59:10 My God loves me and will come to me; he will let me see my enemies defeated.
WHAT WOULD you say and do if there were armed men in your front yard waiting for you to leave the house? Perhaps the president of the United States had sent special forces to attack you, even though you are innocent, even though you support the president and the United States with all of your heart! What would you say or do?
Would you curse the president? Would you cower in fear? Would you curse God?
The occasion of these psalms is King Saul’s first attacks on David. Recorded in 1 Sam 19:11 “Saul sent men to David's house to watch it and to kill him in the morning.”
Wow! Where’s God? All David had done was good for Saul, and now Saul is out to kill him. And this would last for many years. Would David say, “What’s up, God? I thought you were on my side. Curse you for abandoning me!”
Not David. No, he has a deep passion for his God. It is a passion that sees through the darkness into the light. David sees God. David knows God is present to protect him. And David PRAISE him!
David does have some brutal, strong language for God: “Wake up and punish the heathen.” But I think he speaks this knowing his God will do it!
And he knows God loves him.
My friends, whatever the darkness—even if it is the darkness of extreme guilt and shame—turn to God. Welcome in his love. Trust him.
Invite him in, call on him to conquer your enemies of despair and know he will come to you. Trust him that he will defend you and defeat your enemies. You have the same God David did. I pray you have the same heart that guided David’s trust for God.
Read Psalms 58-65
Ps 59:5 Rise, LORD God Almighty, and come to my aid; see for yourself, God of Israel! Wake up and punish the heathen.
Ps 59:8-9 But you laugh at them, LORD; you mock all the heathen.
9 I have confidence in your strength; you are my refuge, O God.
Ps 59:10 My God loves me and will come to me; he will let me see my enemies defeated.
WHAT WOULD you say and do if there were armed men in your front yard waiting for you to leave the house? Perhaps the president of the United States had sent special forces to attack you, even though you are innocent, even though you support the president and the United States with all of your heart! What would you say or do?
Would you curse the president? Would you cower in fear? Would you curse God?
The occasion of these psalms is King Saul’s first attacks on David. Recorded in 1 Sam 19:11 “Saul sent men to David's house to watch it and to kill him in the morning.”
Wow! Where’s God? All David had done was good for Saul, and now Saul is out to kill him. And this would last for many years. Would David say, “What’s up, God? I thought you were on my side. Curse you for abandoning me!”
Not David. No, he has a deep passion for his God. It is a passion that sees through the darkness into the light. David sees God. David knows God is present to protect him. And David PRAISE him!
David does have some brutal, strong language for God: “Wake up and punish the heathen.” But I think he speaks this knowing his God will do it!
And he knows God loves him.
My friends, whatever the darkness—even if it is the darkness of extreme guilt and shame—turn to God. Welcome in his love. Trust him.
Invite him in, call on him to conquer your enemies of despair and know he will come to you. Trust him that he will defend you and defeat your enemies. You have the same God David did. I pray you have the same heart that guided David’s trust for God.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
God's Cleansing Blood
Read Psalms 51-57
Ps 51:10-12
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God.
Renew a loyal spirit within me.
11 Do not banish me from your presence,
and don't take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and make me willing to obey you.
WHAT happens when you’ve realized you have disappointed or have done a great wrong to someone you love or admire? You realize the wrong, and then you have deep regret. For days you may wonder what you can do or say to right the wrong. Your heart feels dirty, and you don’t know how to clean it. Something is wrong.
You may even respond to this wrong with depression. Possibly you will lash out at anger to anyone who even slightly disturbs you because you are in distress. And you don’t know what to do.
In this psalm, David is responding to the great sin of adultery and murder he did with Bathsheba and against her husband Uriah. God had come to him through the prophet Nathan. God accused and he judged David. And David’s heart was filled with dirt.
The dirt of sin took away his joy. You know what that’s like, don’t you? You were wrong, and now the sin grinds your heart to a halt as dirt poured into a car engine.
What do you do? You do what David did. He called on the Lord to cleanse him. Yes, he called on the One who judged him because God is righteous. He will forgive us our sin when we admit, “I’m wrong.”
God’s cleansing is yours – for free. It’s the cleansing of the blood of Jesus. Jesus came to show God’s pure heart to the world. Jesus came to bleed his pure blood for you.
Call on God to create in you a clean heart with the blood of Christ. When you do, you will live in the hope and the joy of this cleansing forever and ever. Amen.
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