This is a devotional series on the Book of Psalms written in 2014. Psalms has always been one of my favorite books in the Bible because it offers so much comfort and encouragement. I pray you are blessed!

Day 1 – Meditating on God’s Handiwork!

Psalms 92:5-6 O LORD, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep. 6 A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this.

What wonderful words from Psalms today, amen?!!! The unlearned Christian misses out on the beautiful results of meditating on the Lord’s works. The unbeliever doesn’t “get it” because his thoughts are not centered on God at all. His thoughts are on self – exactly where the devil wants those thoughts to be.

Proverbs 12:15a The way of a fool is right in his own eyes:

The believer’s eyes are looking outward and up while the unsaved’s are looking inward and down. As a child of God, we have the wonderful opportunity for fellowship with the Father through His Word. The more we know it and are obedient to it, the more the Holy Spirit reveals to us.

Day 2 – Regrets

Psalm 34:4-5 I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. 5 They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.

Have you ever had regrets in your life that you just couldn’t shake? No matter how bright your future appeared, you still couldn’t help but regret the outcome of some problem you had in the past. We all have one or two of those and letting go of them is not small feat. But there are times when regret can totally debilitate a person.

I think of Lot’s wife. Why do you think she looked back? I’ve heard a few sermons on this and all were centered around the fact that she regretted leaving everything she cared about in her life behind.

Gen 19:26 But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt.

This one little action of looking back brought sever consequences for her. It didn’t affect only her. Lot was now without a wife and her daughters were without a mother. Her city is being destroyed in a most horrific way yet she stops to look back. Her heart was back there, that much is obvious.

Today’s Psalm reveals that the child of God can rest in the Lord’s deliverance from our fears. God will help us through any difficult trial if we will only focus on Him and not on the circumstances around us. Verse 5 says they looked unto him and their faces were not ashamed. We will never have regrets if we follow His will for our lives – obedience brings peace and comfort, not regrets.

Do you have regrets, dear Christian? Leave them in the past if you have done what you can to repair them. The devil wants nothing better than to distract you from the will of God! Leave them and move ahead – keep your eyes fixed on the Lord, do His work and look forward to His return! Don’t be like Lot’s wife – don’t park your thoughts on the past and all of its regrets!

Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Day 3 – Nothing is too hard for God

Psalm 30:4-6 Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. 5 For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. 6 And in my prosperity I said, I shall never be moved.

We are faced with impossible situations all the time. It’s what we do with those situations that shows our faith in the Lord. Do we bow down to fear or do we turn to the One who can do all things? I faced this when my husband was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2008. Had it not been for my faith in the Almighty God, I would have crumbled. He reminded me frequently:

Gen 18:14a Is any thing too hard for the LORD? …

The more frequently you turn to the Lord with your doubts and fears, the more you build on your faith and add to your foundation.

Day 4 – Endurance

Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

In this chaotic world with all of its wars and rumors of wars, viruses, financial collapses, etc., it is comforting to know that one thing never changes and that is God’s truth! Man is filled with sin – we are born liars.

Psalms 58:3 The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies.

Since Adam and Eve’s fall, all mankind has been born into sin – meaning that we don’t have to be taught to sin – we have the ability “within” us. We do, however, have to be taught to do right and to be obedient to the Scriptures. This is where a Saviour comes into play! No one, and I mean no one, can go without sinning.

Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

I like what Job said:

Job 14:4 Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one.

No one can clean himself/herself up! Only Christ’s precious blood could do it – only His shed blood can purchase our freedom from this worldly body that is addicted to sin.

1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Hebrews 9:22 – And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.

Revelation 1:5 – And from Jesus Christ, [who is] the faithful witness, [and] the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

Praise the Lord that we don’t have to depend upon our own capabilities … if that were the case, we would all be doomed to an eternity in the Lake of Fire!

Day 5 – God is ONLY Good!

Psalm 145:17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.

I think of the times that I have questioned the Lord and His plans for my life because I did not understand His ways. We may not understand God’s ways for us but one thing is for certain, we can trust that His way is righteous and holy! The above verse makes that quite clear, amen?

Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

God lets us know through His Word that we won’t be able to figure Him out … period! Our thoughts, works and ways are not holy and righteous and, therefore, cannot be the same as God’s. We have a sinful nature and our thinking will be based on that. This is why it is so important for us to depend on God speaking to us through His Word. It is always right and it is final. Remember, God will always do right.

Gen 18:25 That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?

God does right because God is ONLY good. What a wonderful thing to meditate on today! Because this is so, how can I worry about what is to come? Praise the Lord!

Day 6 – When You Need a Boost!

Psalm 86:4-5, Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.

Today’s advertising world inundates us with energy drinks galore! Most are bad for you because they are loaded with chemicals. But where does one go when he/she needs a spiritual boost? The Psalmist, David, knew where to go. He went directly to the Lord! Notice what was bringing David down … the answer is in the next sentence: “For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive;”

When we are living for the Lord and live according to His words, we are not despondent but are encouraged in the Lord. It’s when we are “in sin” that we get discouraged. David recognized this right off and knew where to turn. The end result was rejoicing that God is plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon Him!

When you need a boost, follow David’s example! Go to the Source who can provide everlasting spiritual energy! 🙂

Day 7 – Delight Yourself

~Psalm 37:4 Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Delighting ourselves in the Lord may sound strange to some people. However, to the believer, it is an important part of worshiping God! Noah Webster defines “delight” as:

To affect with great pleasure; to please highly; to give or afford high satisfaction or joy; as, a beautiful landscape delights the eye; harmony delights the ear; the good conduct of children, and especially their piety, delights their parents.

Do my actions affect the Lord with great pleasure? Do I please Him highly? Do I give or afford God high satisfaction and joy? Do my actions speak volumes and glorify God? These are all excellent questions to ask ourselves when we do moral inventory of our lives. Keeping our spiritual life and walk with God in check keeps us out of trouble. Even better, we have a promise that the Lord will give us the desires of our heart when we do so. Will our desires always be our “wants”? No! But they will definitely be exactly what we need.

“I know of no better thermometer to your spiritual temperature than the intensity of your prayer.”

Charles Haddon Spurgeon

Day 8 – Our Shepherd

Psalm 119:169-176 TAU
169 Let my cry come near before thee, O Lord: give me understanding according to thy word.
170 Let my supplication come before thee: deliver me according to thy word.
171 My lips shall utter praise, when thou hast taught me thy statutes.
172 My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.
173 Let thine hand help me; for I have chosen thy precepts.
174 I have longed for thy salvation, O Lord; and thy law is my delight.
175 Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy judgments help me.
176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments.

The last verse of this beautiful Psalm is a wonderful way to end this series on Reflections in Psalms! The Psalmist compares himself to a lost sheep. It’s not the first time this “theme” is found in the King James Bible. In fact, there six occurrences, which I find quite interesting. The Bible number six is defined as the number of man. So it excites my spirit to see man represented as a lost sheep! Man (the sheep) is eternally lost without a Saviour (the Shepherd) (Psalm 23:1)!

Sheep are one of the dumbest creatures on this earth. If led to do so, they will run off a cliff! God compares us to sheep who have gone astray and are in desperate need of a Shepherd to save them, guide them, and teach them (Psalm 23:2-5). Just as Israel was led astray by idols, so are the unsaved today led astray by today’s idols (Jeremiah 50:6). Man’s repeated attempts at “serving God,” failing, and falling away proved futile. The lost sheep needed a shepherd – but much more than just an ordinary shepherd. These sheep needed The Shepherd. This Shepherd would not only protect them, He would give His very life for them (Isaiah 53:6)! Furthermore, He would not lose even one but would seek out each and every one who was lost and die for them all (Matthew 18:12-13)!

I’ve heard that sheep know their shepherd’s voice and are calmed by it. What a beautiful analogy! Once we are saved, we are reconciled to our Shepherd through His precious blood and He is the Bishop of our souls (1 Peter 2:25)! He cares for us in the same way as a Shepherd cares of His sheep! When a sheep goes astray, the shepherd uses is rod to “spank” it. If the sheep repeatedly goes astray, the shepherd inflicts pain in order to keep it in the fold (Proverbs 3:11 and Hebrews 12:7-11). Injured, the sheep becomes dependent on the shepherd and draws nigh to him! Isn’t that great?

The shepherd’s staff was used to lean on or to support one’s self. Oh how beautiful a picture this paints! I am able to lean on Christ and allow Him to support me when I can’t hold myself up (Matthew 11:28-30)! There are so many things I cannot do in my own strength and wholly have to lean on Him! I have read how the shepherd would stroke (or pet) the sheep with his staff: the sheep would be comforted by it. How many times have I been comforted in this manner during an extremely difficult trial (Psalm 23:4)! I have literally felt the Lord’s presence!

How lovely is God’s word to me! How precious! There is great comfort found when one searches its blessed pages! I hope you have enjoyed this journey as we have reflected on this magnificent Book of Psalms! I know I have 🙂

Day 9 – Uphill Battles?

Psalms 77:8 Is his mercy clean gone for ever? doth his promise fail for evermore?

At times, don’t you feel like you’re climbing a steep mountain and no one seems to care about your struggles? You cry and cry to the Lord but He doesn’t seem to hear? If sin is the cause of your struggles, then God is calling you back. But if your hardships are not due to sin, it seems to leave you in a dark hole, doesn’t it? We know that the Lord would never abandon us because He loves us (1 Peter 5:7). We also know that He will never give us more than we can handle (1 Corinthians 10:13). He always provides a way out for those tempted to fall because of their burden.

Lamentations 3:22 It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.

Friend, the Father’s compassion never fail. God is love, amen? With love comes compassion, does it not? You can’t help but have compassion for someone you truly love! Compassion is motivated by love – plain and simple. God is perfect and, therefore, God’s compassion is perfect also. He would not push you to the end of your rope, even though it feels like it at times. Be encouraged, friend!

In fact, here’s something that will knock your socks off! God is so compassionate that Jesus prays for you! Yes, Jesus Himself prays for each born-again believer.

Luke 22:31-32 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: 32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

Doesn’t that encourage your heart? Jesus left us the Holy Spirit who intercedes for us when we don’t know how to pray for ourselves (Romans 8:26). As if that weren’t enough, Jesus prays for us that the devil doesn’t overwhelm us!!! Oh friend, I pray that today’s devotional will bless your heart and will encourage you despite the trials and tribulations you’re going through at this moment!

One of my favorite hymns is “Count Your Blessings” by Johnson Oatman, Jr. Just reading the words are a blessing! 🙂

Count Your Blessings

When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Refrain

Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your blessings, see what God hath done;
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

2
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will be singing as the days go by.

3
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold.
Count your many blessings, money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your Lord on high.

4
So amid the conflict, whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

Day 10 – Our Righteousness

Psalms 106:3 Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth righteousness at all times.

Can any one of us say that we are able to keep all of God’s commandments? Can any one of us say that we do righteousness at all times? Oh how discouraging today’s verse is for the one who is trying to keep the commandments!

Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

Isaiah points out that even the best good thing we do is like a filthy rag, my friend! There isn’t anything that we can do that will add even one atom-sized portion toward our salvation! Think about it!

Not one of us can say that we are even close to getting to Heaven on our own. The Bible makes that clear in the following verses:

Psalms 14:3 They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

Psalms 53:3 Every one of them is gone back: they are altogether become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

Romans 3:10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

Romans 3:12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

There’s a them going on in those four verses: “No, NOT ONE!” There is not one person who can get to Heaven on his/her own merit. No amount of good deeds, no amount of money, no amount of Bible reading or church attendance can tip the scales from Hell to Heaven, friend.

Jesus left His royal throne in order to pay a debt He did not owe! His love for you and I is beyond comprehension. We cannot know perfect love like this because we are not God. Only God can love to this degree and only God can pay the sin debt that we owe! We are so undeserving! Because of God’s love for us, He sent His only Son to take the punishment for our sins – through His death, His blood, we receive salvation! We receive freedom from the bondage of that sin!

Romans 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

Ephesians 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

Colossians 1:14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

Jesus Paid It All
Elvina M. Hall

I hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small;
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”

Refrain:
Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

For nothing good have I
Whereby Thy grace to claim;
I’ll wash my garments white
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.

And now complete in Him,
My robe, His righteousness,
Close sheltered ’neath His side,
I am divinely blest.

Lord, now indeed I find
Thy pow’r, and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots
And melt the heart of stone.

When from my dying bed
My ransomed soul shall rise,
“Jesus died my soul to save,”
Shall rend the vaulted skies.

And when before the throne
I stand in Him complete,
I’ll lay my trophies down,
All down at Jesus’ feet.

Day 11 – The Devil’s Beatitudes

Psalms 74:18 Remember this, that the enemy hath reproached, O LORD, and that the foolish people have blasphemed thy name.

A born-again believer living in America can’t help but feel that our once wonderful country is going to Hell in a hand basket. :'( Abortion is rampant and the conscience is seared due to apathy. The following quote is from Operation Rescue:

“of all unintended pregnancies, 4 in 10 are aborted. There are approximately 1.21 million abortions in America each year.”

Operation Rescue

Are these innocent deaths any different than those spoken of in Deuteronomy?

Deuteronomy 18:10-12 There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, 11 Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. 12 For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee.

We just finished supporting Life Chain yesterday and what a sad day it was for me. Not only are we talking about 1.21 million babies being killed in the name of convenience, but the sick mentality of people who support these killings! As we stood on the sidewalks with various pro-life and pro-Jesus signs, we were mocked and yelled at by 3-4 times more people than people showing support for the cause. :'( My heart was absolutely broken! There were so many more in support of this cause in years past! Where were those people yesterday? What happened to their consciences – their hearts?

Oh, Father in Heaven, please forgive this people and this land for offering up their unborn children to the god of this world! Lord, turn the hearts of your people and revive us again so we can be bold witnesses to those who get rid of their babies because it’s not convenient! Please, Lord, keep Your hand of judgment from us and give us more time to reach out to this lost and dying world.

I found this story that really applied to the heart of what is wrong with Christians today. I hope it speaks to your heart!

THE DEVIL’S BEATITUDES

Blessed are they who are too tired and busy to assemble with the Church on Sunday; for they are my best workers.
Blessed are they who are bored with the pastor’s mannerisms and mistakes; for they get nothing out of the casermon.
Blessed is the church member who expects to be invited to his own church; for he is important to me.
Blessed are they who do not meet with the church on Sunday; for they cause the world to say, “The Church is failing.”
Blessed are they who do not give to carry on God’s work and mission; for they are my helpers.
Blessed are the troublemakers; for they shall be called the children of the devil.
Blessed is he who professes to love God but hates his brother; for he will be with me forever.
Blessed is he who has no time to pray; for he shall be easy prey for me.

Day 12 – Life’s Storms

Psalm 107:29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.

If the Master Creator can calm a storm and still the waves, how much more can He do with the storms of your life? Let’s stop and think about it for a moment!

Jesus thought this to be a very important topic to teach His disciples. So important, it was mentioned in three of the four Gospels.

Matthew 8:26 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.

Mark 4:39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

Luke 8:24 And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm.

Each of the Gospels teaches a different aspect of the same account. Matthew shows the Master teaching His pupils – telling them of their lack of faith. Mark’s account shows just how awesome and powerful Jesus was – the God man, but fully God. Lastly, Luke describes man’s desperate need for Jesus to intercede on their behalf! Oh how wonderful to know that the Maker of the storms can also calm them.

Oh how wonderful to know that we can run to Him in the midst of our storms and cry out, “Master, master, I perish!” Oh Lord, God, how I need Thee every hour! Oh how precious are the words of this hymn to me this day! I’ve known the hymn for years but the Lord has seen fit to bless me with its true meaning!

I Need Thee Every Hour
Annie Hawks

I need Thee every hour, most gracious Lord;
No tender voice like Thine can peace afford.

Refrain

I need Thee, O I need Thee;
Every hour I need Thee;
O bless me now, my Savior,
I come to Thee.

I need Thee every hour, stay Thou nearby;
Temptations lose their power when Thou art nigh.

Refrain

I need Thee every hour, in joy or pain;
Come quickly and abide, or life is in vain.

Refrain

I need Thee every hour; teach me Thy will;
And Thy rich promises in me fulfill.

Refrain

I need Thee every hour, most Holy One;
O make me Thine indeed, Thou blessèd Son.

Refrain

Day 13 – Thirsting

Psalms 42:1-2 As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?

What a convicting passage! Do I thirst after the Lord and the things of God as the deer pants after water? Ouch!

The bread and water of life are ours because of Jesus Christ. He has provided His own flesh and blood to purchase our very salvation. What love! He doesn’t stop there – He has provided us with the Scriptures that we can turn to on a daily basis to satisfy our deepest longings.

On a really hot day, isn’t it wonderful to pour yourself a nice tall glass of water or iced tea? How wonderful it feels going down our parched throat! We ought have that same urgent desire for the things of God! This is so convicting to me.

John 4:13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:

It’s so important to stay on top of our spiritual walk. We can easily become side tracked and our sense of urgency for the things of God diminishes. Oh that we would keep our eyes focused on the One above!! Holy Spirit, please prick our hearts – dig up the hardened soil and water it with the words of life. Help us to turn around and head in the right direction once again!

Day 14 – Doubt

Psalms 77:3 I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah.

This verse had such an impact to my spirit! It was exactly what I needed … just when I needed it!

Psalm 77:3 is worded perfectly for the person who has any doubts in the Lord and what He is doing. Notice that the Psalmist remembered his God and that troubled him … but why did it trouble him? The colon tells us that the thought, the point, is coming. The Psalmist complained and, because of that, he was overwhelmed. Then to top it off, he inserts a rest, Selah – as if he wants us to stop and think about it. Whew! God’s words for mankind are so applicable to life today!!

Through the struggles of my life in the past few months, I’ve often doubted the Lord. What is He doing? What purpose does He have? Why is He allowing this? My spirit was troubled within me and now I can totally understand why! When we doubt God, that is when we become overwhelmed with the issues at hand. To rest securely in His care is the place to be. To rest in Him brings peace and tranquility for the weary soul!

So what’s the solution to doubt? Go back to the beginning of the verse and you will see! 🙂 The Psalmist said, “I remembered God.” Looking back on my life, I have so much for which to be thankful! There’s no doubt in my mind that these blessings were from the Father in Heaven. Doubt flies when we concentrate on what He has done for us in the past. We can rest in the knowledge that He will bless us again! 🙂

Day 15 – Evolution

Psalms 14:1 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.

When all is said and done and the end of the age arrives, it won’t matter what man has taught about evolution. The truth will be made known to all mankind and all those who are not “in Christ” will be judged. The Bible says that atheists are fools – plain and simple. God doesn’t mince words, does He?

Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines “fool” as:

In scripture, fool is often used for a wicked or depraved person; one who acts contrary to sound wisdom in his moral deportment; one who follows his own inclinations, who prefers trifling and temporary pleasures to the service of God and eternal happiness.

I think of the countless evolutionists and scientists who have a total disregard for the things of God. In reality, their science has become their “god”! They would rather believe in anything rather than the Bible. But God still calls them fools.

The Bible is our source for all things. It has all the answers – it’s current – it’s full of wisdom – it’s the final answer! Amen?

Day 16 – Hope

Psalms 22:9 But thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother’s breasts.

I love the mental picture this paints! As a baby screams for its food and only gets louder when deprived, our hope in the Lord’s care for us should be as fervent, amen? Does a baby even stop to think where his next meal is coming from? Of course not! He just knows that when he cries, his needs are met. He doesn’t question whether those needs will be met or not.

So why do we doubt that God will meet our needs? Our hope should be in Him and Him alone! Just as Christ has our salvation secure in His blood, so does He have each of our needs nestled safely in the palm of His hand. He knows each care – each need – each trial!

Day 17 – Diligence

Psalms 119:1-4 Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD.
Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.
They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently.

Along with diligence in our walk with the Lord comes blessings. Not only blessings, but strength to keep from sin. We live in a sinful world in flesh that still desires to sin, amen? The only way to fight the battle is to remain in God’s word.

Psalms 119:133 Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

A Christian needs the Scriptures daily in order to keep sin from dominating his body! Are you struggling? Get back in the word of God, Christian! It is your armor against the world!

Day 18 – Waiting on the Lord

Psalms 27:14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

Psalms 31:24 Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.

I’m sure I’m not the only one that gets anxious about situations in their life. I’ve written about this topic before but apparently I need to hear it again! 🙂 I so want to trust in Him and wait for Him to handle these situations in my life that cause me unrest but I repeatedly fail to remember that His ways are not my ways.

Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.

Waiting on the Lord is not always easy, especially when you are right in the midst of the trial! I love how Psalm 31:24 ends with, “…all ye that hope in the LORD.” My hope must solidly rest in Jesus Christ – period!. As the writer said in the beautiful hymn “On Christ the Solid Rock,” “all other hope is sinking sand.” Do I “hope” in myself? Sadly, yes! I think that I can accomplish something only to find out that it creates a great burden on me. Why do I do this to myself?

So what is the solution? I’ve figured it out … it’s staying in my Bible … it’s allow God to encourage my heart and strengthen me through His words … and, yes, it’s waiting for Him for an answer to my trial and not jumping the gun. Oh how weary I am of this flesh! I can so relate to Paul’s words:

Romans 7:14-15 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.

I long for the day when my faith will be made sight and I no longer will have to battle with myself! I will no longer have to wait on the Lord because I will be right there with Him! 🙂

Day 19 – Diligently

Psalm 119:4 Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently.

A few years ago, when I commuted to work along the coastline of Oregon, I would see the same people over and over walking the beaches. It was part of their daily routine and they were diligent about it. As many of you know, it rains a lot in Oregon but yet these people would be out there walking rain or shine. Such diligence is commendable to be certain. However, what about diligence when it comes to God’s Word? We are commanded to be diligent in doing what the Scriptures tell us to do, amen?

Noah Webster defines diligently as:

DILIGENTLY, adv. With steady application and care; with industry or assiduity; not carelessly; not negligently.

Ye shall diligently keep the commandments of the Lord your God. Deu 6.

I was moved by this: “with steady application and care;” – it describes someone who doesn’t give up – someone who keeps on going no matter what. It’s not just the reading of the Word that’s important here but the “application” of the Word of God to our lives. That’s the “action” in this definition. We can read and read all we want but if we do not apply it to our hearts and allow the Holy Spirit to change us, then we’ve read for nothing, amen? We need to take what we’ve read with our eyes,heard with our ears, apply it to our hearts then put feet to what we’ve learned.

James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

Day 20 – Forgiveness

Psalms 25:18 Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins.

Praise the Lord that we do not have to worry about where we will spend eternity once we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour. It is not by anything that we do, otherwise we could lose that salvation. (Ephesians 2:8-9) The Bible says it is only by the blood of Jesus that we can be saved. (Acts 4:12) Nothing else!

Psalms 32:1 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.

Psalms 85:2 Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast covered all their sin. Selah.

1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Eph. 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

Colossians 1:14 – In whom we have redemption through his blood, [even] the forgiveness of sins:

Rather than live a Christian life filled with guilt, rejoice that your salvation is not dependent on you but on Christ. You were given and are forgiven. But if you sin, confess it and forsake it. Remember 1 John 1:9. The devil wants you to continue feeling guilty so you can become ineffective to the cause of Christ. Tell the Lord about it and repent from that sin and do it no more.

Ps 103:8,11 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. 11 For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

Day 21 – Lighting the Way

Psalms 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Have you ever tried to go for a nice walk in the woods when the fog is close to the ground like today’s picture?? You can’t see the tree roots coming out of the ground all that well. In fact, sometimes you trip over them. This immediately brought to mind how God tells us that His Word is a light on our path so we don’t have to ever worry about tripping over unseen obstacles. Granted, we will have surprises, but if we are reading regularly and meditating on God’s Word, we won’t be taken off guard.

The Lord gave us the Bible to guide and direct us in all things, amen? We can turn to the Scriptures and find answers to practically any question under the sun.

2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

We don’t have to be led astray by the Joel Osteen’s of the world who preach the “prosperity gospel.” If this type of preaching were what Jesus wanted of us, don’t you think there would be more examples of it in the Bible? Don’t you think God would have had all of His preachers decked out and popular with the world? Jesus was not popular at all. If anyone could “visualize” his success, it would have been Jesus, after all. But no where in Scriptures do we see the preachers living lavishly and having all the world’s goodies! Solomon did but he did not end well, did he? He turned from all that wisdom and adopted the ways of his wives/concubines’ gods. This is exactly what today’s Bible verse is all about.

Don’t be led astray by the world’s gospel, which is the devil’s by the way. Be wise and studious, Christian! There are so many wolves in sheep’s clothing out there. They sound Christian – their words are almost identical to ours – but they are far from God. The Bible is our handbook for life – for everthing!

Matthew 10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

Day 22 – Teaching Children

Psalms 78:4 We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.

What a beautiful blueprint for teaching children, amen? God wants us to have His Word out in the open in our homes, not hidden under a bushel. I can see where Bible verses prominently displayed on the walls and throughout the home would fit this statement, can’t you? Even post-it notes on the refrigerator or bathroom mirror can fulfill that.

The verse continues on to say that when the Word of God is not hidden, it shows the praises of God, His strength and His wonderful works. Having God’s Word as an integral part of our daily lives yields this type of fruit. We can’t help but sing praises of all that He does for us!

What are we showing our children? Today’s verse even talks about teaching them to future generations – our grandchildren! Are we showing them how defeated we are by the world? Or are we singing praises of His goodness? Are we showing them stability through trials? Are we sharing the victories where we have overcome those trials? Children are so easy to teach to praise the Lord! I dare say if Christian parents had done more of this in our day, we wouldn’t have so many ungrateful teenagers and young adults today! This simple verse is packed with wisdom, amen?

Not everyone has children, but everyone has a child in his/her world, whether it’s a relative or a Sunday School class. Start there – teach, teach and teach some more. Your time and effort will not be wasted. 🙂

Day 23 – Assured I’m His!

Psalms 4:3 But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.

As Christians, there is nothing that you and I can do or say that will be righteous 100% of the time. Amen? Today’s verse would be quite discouraging if we could only be the Lord’s through our own righteousness! Thank the Lord Jesus, our Saviour, for His righteousness!

2 Cor. 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

It is His righteousness that the Heavenly Father sees once we are saved! Therefore, the end of that verse applies to us! God will hear us when we cry out to Him.

Aren’t you glad that you have this assurance? The Father has set us apart in Christ for Himself!! He will hear us when we call! No maybes there! This verse is a wonderful promise to the children of God who rest secure in the Father’s hand. (John 10:29)

Hallelujah!

Blessed Assurance

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine;
Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.

This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, perfect delight,
Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
Angels descending, bring from above
Echoes of mercy, whispers of love.

Perfect submission, all is at rest,
I in my Savior am happy and blest;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with His goodness, lost in His love.

Day 24 – God is Good

Psalms 145:8 The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.

A dear sweet lady in our Ladies Sunday School class brought up this statement:

God is not only Good, but He is ONLY Good!

Pause for a moment and think about that comment. Is there anything, then, that can happen to you that won’t be for your benefit? I’m not talking about repercussions from sin. I’m talking about those trials and tribulations that come your way, as in Job’s case. No matter what you go through, remember that the Lord God of Heaven can ONLY do good because He is only Good. Do you get it? Now look at today’s verse. Knowing that God is only Good, can you now see how He is gracious? Why? Because graciousness comes from good. Can you see how He is full of compassion? Someone who hates cannot be compassionate. Can you see how He is slow to anger and full of mercy? Oh my! Remember this when you are in the midst of trials. Know that since God is ONLY Good, He won’t give you more than you can carry on your precious shoulders, Christian. He can’t and won’t do that. Why? Because He is only Good! 🙂

Day 25 – Needed Strength

There are times in life where we reach a point where we just can’t go on anymore. We are at the end of our rope and that’s it! We realize that we cannot go on by our own strength. You’ve been there, haven’t you? For years you’ve reached down deep inside you and pulled out every ounce of strength you had to make it through one more day.

Wouldn’t you like to be able to go to the store and buy a can of strength right off the shelf? 🙂 I wish it would be that easy! But you can find super human strength right there in the privacy of your own home, dear Christian. Your Bible has verses just waiting to be read that will encourage your heart and give you exactly what you need … when you need it!

Psalm 22:19 But be not thou far from me, O LORD: O my strength, haste thee to help me.

Psalm 28:7-8 The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. 8 The LORD is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed.

Psalm 118:14 The LORD is my strength and song, and is become my salvation.

The Lord God is a compassionate God. He could destroy us in a heartbeat but His nature is such that He looks upon His creation like a father looks upon his child. God is merciful and sees our plight and is there to strengthen us.

Lamentations 3:22-23 It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

What it takes, Christian, is taking time to read your Bible! It’s a simple solution – the remedy awaits you! Encourage yourself and turn to the One who is able to give you that strength. Our Father won’t give you more than you can bear! He will give you that much-needed strength to make it through one more day. Then tomorrow, you can ask Him all over again and He will supply your need. God is faithful and will not fail you!

Great is Thy Faithfulness

“Great is Thy faithfulness,” O God my Father,
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not
As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.

“Great is Thy faithfulness!” “Great is Thy faithfulness!”
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—
“Great is Thy faithfulness,” Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above,
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Day 26 – Are You Afraid Today?

Psalm 56:3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.

How many times do you stop and think about the Lord when your heart is gripped with fear? To many Christians, God is not the first thing that comes to mind. But He should be! What would happen to you if you heard that negative comments were made about you by your closest friend (your husband, parent, dear friend)? What would be the first thing to come to your mind? Would you deny that your friend ever made those comments because you trusted him/her? Or would you be quick to judge the situation as well as your friend? Most times, you would know beyond a shadow of a doubt that your spouse, or your friend, would never speak ill of you and, therefore, you would dismiss the situation.

Why then, can you not trust God? Would God do anything to harm you? Of course not. When we strive to walk in His will, everything that happens to us in the course of the day happens for a purpose: to bring glory to His Name!

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

We don’t need to doubt – we don’t need to be afraid of anything! No matter how unknown your future is, you are still God’s child. God’s eternal love is unconditional – He died for you while you were yet a sinner. That should speak volumes to your heart! He has your best interest in mind when He allows trials and tribulations to come your way. Think of Job for a moment. Job was put through the ringer, wasn’t he? Yet he was not afraid and he trusted in the Lord.

God won’t abandon you – He won’t allow anything more than you can possibly bear. Don’t be afraid. Praise Him in all things and acknowledge the blessings you have. That will put a new song on your lips and encourage your heart. Fear will simply vanish away! 🙂 It may try to creep back in but start the process over and praise Him!

Praise Him! Praise Him!

Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Sing, O Earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Hail Him! Hail Him! Highest archangels in glory;
Strength and honor give to His holy Name!
Like a shepherd, Jesus will guard His children,
In His arms He carries them all day long.

Refrain:
Praise Him! Praise Him! Tell of His excellent greatness;
Praise Him! Praise Him! Ever in joyful song!

Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
For our sins He suffered, and bled, and died.
He our Rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail Him! Hail Him! Jesus the Crucified.
Sound His praises! Jesus who bore our sorrows,
Love unbounded, wonderful, deep and strong.

Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Heav’nly portals loud with hosannas ring!
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever;
Crown Him! Crown Him! Prophet, and Priest, and King!
Christ is coming! over the world victorious,
Pow’r and glory unto the Lord belong.

Day 27 – Satan’s Discouragement

Psalm 40:1-3 I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. 2 He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. 3 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

Does the child of God have a right to be discouraged? It’s a good question. There are times that we allow ourselves a brief moment to sit in our pity party pool of tears. But normally, we snap out of it and move on. However, there are some good Christians out there who stay in their little pool a little too long. This is a dangerous place to be, Christian.

The Psalmist says that the Lord hears our cries and brings us out of our horrible pit and out of the miry clay. One cannot “hear” unless there’s something TO hear, amen? There must be an action of crying out first. Therefore, this is conditional upon the child of God crying out to Him first. He then places us on a rock and establishes our goings. Furthermore, the Lord puts a new song in our mouth – rather than complaining of our discouragement, we have a new song of praise to Him. This is a testimony to the lost and a testimony to the weaker Christian. Notice that the byproduct of discouragement is fear and the byproduct of praise is trust in the Lord.

Deuteronomy 31:8 And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

One thing we can definitely count on is that God already knows the outcome of our situation. He walks right there alongside us! And the best part is that He has promised that He will NOT fail us nor will He forsake us. Also notice that we are then exhorted that we shouldn’t fear nor be discouraged! How can one fear or be discouraged if he truly believes that God WILL NOT fail him or forsake him?

Here’s a wonderful little fable called, “Satan’s Discouragement.” It goes with today’s devotional so well and I hope it helps you to see that discouragement serves no purpose but to bring glory to the devil. The total opposite, encouragement, brings glory to the Lord Almighty!

Satan’s Discouragement

There’s an old fable that says the Devil once held a sale and offered all the tools of his trade to anyone who would pay the price. The tools were spread out on the table and each one was labeled: hatred, malice, envy, despair, sickness, sensuality – all the weapons that everyone knows so well.

Off to one side lay a harmless-looking, wood-shaped instrument marked “discouragement.” It was old and worn looking but it was priced far above the rest.

When asked the reason why, the Devil replied, “Because I can use this one so much more easily than the others. No one knows that it belongs to me, so with it I can open doors that are tightly bolted shut. Once I get inside I can use any tool that suits me best.”

Psalm 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.

I stand amazed at how many traditional hymns are based on God’s word! Isn’t this one below just so appropriate for today’s devotional? I hope you have been encouraged today, dear Christian!

Burdens Are Lifted at Calvary

Days are filled with sorrow and care,
Hearts are lonely and drear.
Burdens are lifted at Calvary,
Jesus is very near.

Burdens are lifted at Calvary, Calvary, Calvary;
Burdens are lifted at Calvary, Jesus is very near.

Day 28 – Our Helper

Psalms 46: 1-3 (To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth.) God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3 [Though] the waters thereof roar [and] be troubled, [though] the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

The storms of life happen to everyone. No one escapes it. The only difference is how one handles these storms. We can either moan and groan about a storm in our life or we can do what the Psalmist recommends.

Just reading today’s passage in Psalms calms my spirit. God’s precious words bring solace to a weary soul, doesn’t it? The Psalmist tells us that God is our refuge. When we fret about the day’s events or an upcoming battle, we should strive to run to our refuge. I picture a castle or some type of structure that is fortified and impervious to the enemy. God has chosen His words carefully and each word is in our Bible so we may glean and be encouraged. So it is no coincidence that God chose the word refuge. A refuge protects an individual from the enemy, the elements and anything harmful. Sometimes a refuge can be your spouse. But God clearly tells us here that He is to be our Refuge!

When we turn to Him during our trials, He promises us that we are now safe in His refuge, which is impenetrable, and He will protect us from the enemy. We are under His wings and protected from the elements and the enemy. Are you not encouraged, even now?

Psalms 17:8 Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings,

As if this weren’t enough to be on shouting grounds, the Psalmist continues and says that the Lord is our strength! I’m no longer the young pup I used to be. Even when I was, my strength could not match His. I’m thankful that no matter what my strength levels are, I don’t need to rely on my own but I can rely on God’s strength. There is nothing too difficult for the Lord, Christian. Amen? Jeremiah 32:27 says, “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” Amen and amen! No wonder the Psalmist was encouraged! I am encouraged! 🙂

So now, Christian, we are in His refuge (under His wings) and we don’t have to face a trial in our own strength but can rely on His strength. As if this isn’t enough, we can now count on God helping us through that trial. He will provide the solution – He will provide the way to overcome – He will provide whatever is necessary for us to survive the storm! It reminds me of “Footprints in the Sand” where we see that God carried the Christian when the Christian could not go on on his own. I’ve felt this way, many a time.

I praise the Lord that I can count Him as my Refuge, my Strength and my Helper. What encouragement that brings my soul today!!! Thank You, Father! To God be the glory, great things He hath done!

A Might Fortress Is Our God
Martin Luther (1483-1546)

A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

Day 29 – The Heavens Speak

Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.

The same God who came to earth to take on our sin created the beauty that is all around us. The Bible tells us that just looking up at the skies reveals God to the heart of man. The native in the deepest jungles of Africa and South America see the same heavens as we do. It has always been in man’s heart of hearts to search for a Creator. The heavens declare this Creator and man is without excuse. People wonder about the natives and how they can possibly get saved. When looking at these beautiful heavens and creation, a native will sense there is a Creator. When there is a fervent heart, the Lord will send a missionary to this native to lead him to Christ.

John 1:3 – All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

Romans 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

What a praise this is, actually. Our Lord and Saviour not only created all things but He reveals His nature to every man through that same creation. He puts that desire in every man’s heart. God would not do anything contrary to His word. If man is created by Him, for Him, it stands to reason that Christ would do anything to draw man to Him. Amen?

Colossians 1:16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether [they be] thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

All of creation waits anxiously for Christ’s return. Yes, the heavens – animals – all creation!

Romans 8:21-22 Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.

Sing out, Christian! Declare with the heavens and all of Christ’s creation in waiting anticipation for His return!! He will make all things new! Read Revelations, my friend! God wins in the end and His creation is brought into the beautiful Millennium period. Earth will once again be as Christ intended in the Garden of Eden. Look up! Our redemption draweth nigh! (Luke 21:28)

To God be the Glory

To God be the glory, great things He hath done,
So loved He the world that He gave us His Son,
Who yielded His life our redemption to win,
And opened the life-gate that all may go in.

Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
Let the earth hear His voice;
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
Let the people rejoice;
Oh, come to the Father, through Jesus the Son,
And give Him the glory; great things He hath done.

Day 30 – God’s GPS

Psalms 119:105 Nun. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

God left us His word to give us direction for the here and now as well as to instruct us for the future. Today’s verse tells me that everything I need to direct me for today is in the blessed pages of my Bible. All I have to do is read it. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet,” – God wants to teach us and show us how to live according to His will today! “…and a light unto my path.” – God wants to guide and direct us as we walk down life’s pathway.

Everything we need is right there at our fingertips, Christian. Do you need to be encouraged?

Ps. 61:1-3, 1 (To the chief Musician upon Neginah, A Psalm of David.) Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. 2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I. 3 For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.

Are you mourning at the loss of a loved one?

2 Cor. 1:3-4, 3 Blessed [be] God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

No matter what life throws your way, God has a word WITH direction for you! You’re His child and He doesn’t want you to stray onto a wrong path. He has given us the Light of the world (John 8:12) and a wonderful Teacher (Luke 12:12)!! 🙂

What do you think about when you do your devotions? Do you simply read and walk away? Or do you sit there and think about what you’ve just read? We should be walking away with something that will carry us through the day, don’t you think? I wrote this 26-day devotional series beginning in 2013 and finished it in 2014. It covers various blessings from God’s word. As you look at this picture, think on a Bible verse and really ponder over it. That is how we glean from God’s Word. I pray it is a blessing to you!

Day 1 – Consider the Loaves

Mark 6:48- 52 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. 49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: 50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. 51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. 52 For they considered not [the miracle] of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.

Before you sit in judgment over the disciples’ forgetting Jesus’ miracles, park here a while and think on your own life. How many times have you been through struggles? Did the Lord see you through them all? Did everything turn out OK? Things my not have turned out the way you planned. But you must admit … they turned out better.

Don’t you want to kick yourself for doubting? I know I have been in that same boat (no pun intended). I forgot about the loaves! I forgot what the Lord did in my life – the miracles He performed – my heart was hardened and despair set in, much like the disciples in the boat.

But what did Jesus do? He encouraged them and performed yet another miracle! He never leaves us in our despair. When we sincerely seek Him through it all, He rewards us! 🙂

Day 2 – What’s in the Heart

Proverbs 27:19 As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.

When you see your reflection in a mirror or in water, what do you really see? You don’t see what’s on the inside – you don’t see your heart, correct? The Bible tells us that what’s in the heart is displayed on the outside of our bodies. It shows on our face, it shows in our words and in our actions.

Mat. 15:18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.

If your mirror could reveal what is in your heart this morning, what would you see? Would you see an ugly, sad, dark and empty reflection? Or, would you see a smile filled with Christ’s love?

Sin creates a ripple in our heart’s reflection. What was clear and beautiful in the eyes of the beholder, now becomes distorted. This picture is a perfect example of what sin can do in our lives. You can hardly see the beautiful clouds in the water – it’s merely a mishmash. Sin distorts our testimony and changes it from Christ’s reflection in us to something that is not recognizable – no longer revealing His beauty. Sin’s effects are a slow process … at first there are no rippling effects and the picture appears perfect. However, as we continue in sin, the ripples (the repercussions of our sins) become greater and the reflection of Christ becomes more distorted. When ripples become waves from the storms of life, Christ is no longer evident.

Don’t deceive yourself, Christian. You may think that dabbling in sin doesn’t affect you, but it does. The devil deceives and is a father of lies. He will convince you that you’re OK and will keep you out of the will of God. This world sees you just as today’s Proverb describes. They see what’s in your heart reflected on your face – your life – your character. Don’t shame the Lord but glorify Him in your life. They won’t be able to tell the difference between you and your Saviour! 🙂

Day 3 – The Following

John 10:1-5 1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. 2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. 4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. 5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.

Sheep listen to only one person – their shepherd. If you need proof of that, search it out on the web and you’ll be taken to videos of different people trying to call sheep to them. The sheep don’t move until they hear their shepherd’s voice. It’s truly amazing! I love the fact that God used this analogy in the scriptures. Our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, is the only one who will lead us through the gates of heaven, my friend. There is only one way and that is through His birth, death and resurrection. His shed blood is the sacrificial offering for the penalty of our sins.

Matt. 7:13-15 13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. 15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

There are many out there that claim to have the words of life but they are charlatans trying to deceive you. Jesus said there is one way – He leads us to the way.

John 10:7-18 7 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have [it] more abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my [sheep], and am known of mine. 15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, [and] one shepherd. 17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

There is ONE Shepherd, ONE way … Jesus Christ, the Son of God … not Allah, not Budda, ONLY Jesus.

John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

The Apostle Peter even said it in:

Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

It’s not rocket science but the god of this world (2 Cor. 4:4) has blinded mankind with diversity and tolerance. This is not scriptural. Jesus came to show us the way – it’s in God’s words for mankind – all we have to do is read those words and believe in faith that He is the One and only way.

Day 4 – Does it bother you?

Do you care about God? Do you care what happens after death? Maybe you don’t care at all. I pray you would take a few moments to read this anyway. Even if only one person reads this and accepts God’s salvation through Christ, it will be worth the time spent writing it.

I am not here to pass judgment as it is not mine to pass. I merely want to share God’s word with you so that you can know for yourself instead of leaving it in the hands of someone else.

But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth? (Psalm 50:16)

God asks what it’s going to take for you to proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord of all? Jesus is God’s covenant to us – His promise, if you will. Without believing in Jesus Christ, you have no covenant with God – you cannot claim His promise to you. You have no chance of heaven! (John 14:6)

Seeing thou hatest instruction, and castest my words behind thee. (Psalm 50:17)

God knows that going to church is just a chore for you – He knows that if you do go to church, it is only because it is your religious obligation. Your heart is really not into it. If you attend a church that doesn’t use bibles in its services, then you are left to listen to what the priest/pastor/minister says … and just maybe you don’t listen to that as well. You cast God’s words behind you. Remember, you cannot fool God.

When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers. (Psalm 50:18)

Does it bother you if someone steals in your presence? Do you find it amusing that the thief “got away with it”? This is never more true than watching the news after a natural disaster hits a community. Thieves have a field day looting stores – the cameras catch them laughing as they steal things – we saw this during the Hurricane Katrina news footage and the more recent riots in the streets. How appropriate is the above verse to those looters. God goes on to say that the sinner is likened to have partaken with adulterers. Are you an adulterer? Have you looked at another woman and lusted after her? If so, you have cheated on your spouse. Jesus said that even if you lusted after another in your mind, you are guilty of adultery! (Matthew 5:28)

Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit. (Psalm 50:19)

Cursing is all around us today. It is nothing to hear God’s name in vain in public places. Lest you think it doesn’t matter, it is still one of the Ten Commandments. Don’t think God will overlook cursing. The bible says that everything we say is being “recorded” in Heaven and will be held accountable to each of us. (Matthew 12:36) What about lying? Does your tongue frame deceit? This does not only refer to lying but also cheating. There are many who deceive and cheat people out there today. Have you sold a car to someone and not divulged everything that was wrong with it? You are in essence lying. You are also breaking one of the Ten Commandments.

Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother’s son. (Psalm 50:20)

You may have thought that slandering your family wasn’t a big deal. God thinks differently. Just read on.

These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. (Psalm 50:21)

What things is God speaking of here? (1) Not listening or heeding to God’s instructions in the bible (2) Stealing (3) Adultery (4) Blaspheming God (5) Lying and cheating, and (6) blaspheming and slandering your own brother. Have you done any of these things? I know that I had committed several of these things! We’re not alone – most people have!

Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. (Psalm 50:22)

Unless you listen to God’s word, God will tear you in pieces. You won’t be able to hide anything from God when you stand before Him after you die. None of your friends will be there to protect you or save you from this event. I remember saying that I would meet my friends in Hell and we’d have a good time there together. Not according to God’s word I won’t! That was just foolish talking on my part because I had no idea where I was going so I hid behind my ignorance.

Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God. (Psalm 50:23)

Anyone who desires to know about God will not go unrewarded. God will reward that person by showing him/her the truth and how to be saved from the wrath to come. The bible says: Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6) The bible does not say that you can go to the Father in Heaven by Allah. The Bible does not say that you can go to the Father in Heaven by Buddah. The Bible does not say that you can go to the Father in Heaven by Joseph Smith. The Bible does not say that you can go to the Father in Heaven by any church for that matter. It is through Jesus Christ alone. Please take a moment and read the following verses with an open heart and mind:

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:23)

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: (John 11:25)

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (John 3:3)

I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. (Luke 13:3)

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9)

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (Romans 10:10)

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Romans 10:13)

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. (Ephesians 4:28)

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (II Corinthians 5:17)

There is nothing you can do to get to Heaven. It is impossible for us to stop sinning! IMPOSSIBLE! If it were so, Christ would not have had to die a bloody and horrible death on the cross!

After Adam and Eve sinned, that sin nature was passed on to everyone born after that. God did not make Adam and Eve that way. They were made perfect and without sin. But God did not create robots who could make no choices in life and nor did He create someone without a will of their own. He created man to think for himself. Unfortunately for us, Adam and Eve’s sin has left all of mankind with a choice. Do we admit that we cannot stop sinning and, therefore, are doomed to eternity in Hell? Eternity is too long and Hell is too hot for you to shrug this away, my friend.

It broke God’s heart so much when His creation could not stop sinning! Even His chosen people, the Jews, could not stop, despite the Ten Commandments, their sacrifices of spotless lambs, and the laws that had been created to rule them. It was this compassion and broken heart that led God to send Jesus Christ, His Son, to die for us. The Scriptures say that without the shedding of blood, there is not remission of sin. (Matthew 26:28, Romans 3:25, Hebrews 9:22) Therefore, a perfect Lamb, Jesus Christ the Son of God, left His throne in Heaven to take on human form. Why this method? Jesus did this so that He could feel what we feel as human beings. He could experience the temptations but never sin. This made Him the perfect, sinless Lamb who would be sacrificed for all mankind. Those other lambs were but mere symbols of what was to come when Christ came. He finished that requirement by being the final sacrifice, one sacrifice for all! (Hebrews 10:10)

Jesus Christ’s work did not stop there. Not only did He die, but He arose from the dead three days later! A few weeks later, He ascended into Heaven and is waiting to come back in the air to take born-again Christians to Heaven! If you read the verses and you have allowed the Holy Spirit of God to prick your heart, won’t you please pray and ask God to forgive you? Accept His Son’s perfect sacrifice for your sins. Repent of your life style and change directions. If you are a thief, steal no more – if you are an adulterer, do it no more, etc. If you pray these things with a sincere heart, God will hear you and save you. He knows whether or not you are sincere. As a result, you will be born again – a brand new beginning – a brand new nature! Your sins will be forgiven and the weight of your sin’s debt will be lifted from you! You will now be a child of God! A child of God begins to change immediately. The desires to curse, lie, cheat, steal, commit adultery, etc. will either be completely taken away or will diminish drastically.

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (II Corinthians 5:17)

A Christian is not sinless but a Christian should sin less with each passing day as he yields himself to the convicting work of the Holy Spirit in his life. Read your bible faithfully every day – not just a verse or two – but really read and you will be fed God’s holy word! Look at the tab at the top of this blog for new believers and start there. Find a good Bible believing church that preaches God’s word without compromise.

I pray that this post has been a blessing to someone today! If so, please share your blessing by posting a comment!

Father in Heaven, I lift up this blog to You today and pray that Your Spirit would direct someone here who would read it and his/her heart would be convicted. Father, I beg You for a soul to be won as a result of this labor to bring honor and glory to You. I ask these things in Jesus’ precious Name. Amen.

Day 5 – Our Speech

James 3:1-12 1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. 2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. 3 Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. 4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! 6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. 7 For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: 8 But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. 10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. 11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? 12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.

Our tongue is little in comparison to the rest of our body but it sure can be a sharp little tool if it is not trained! (James 3:10) One minute it can praise God and the next minute it can gossip about another!

So how can we train our tongue? (Psalm 39:1) Firstly, we must change the condition of the heart, amen? (Luke 6:45) Starting the day with the words from Psalm 19:14 is an excellent beginning 🙂 When my heart is right, the words coming from my lips will be also.

As I read today’s text, the Lord impressed upon my heart Colossians 4:6 – my speech should be seasoned with salt. Just what is the purpose of salt in our lives? Why would the Lord use this analogy? Meditating on the little word salt and comparing it to our everyday life opened this part of scripture so much more. I don’t know about you, but I really get more out my reading when analogies are used. The Lord sure knows His creation 🙂 He knows we learn better with real life applications. So what does salt actually do for us?

(1) It adds flavor to food – Again, Colossians 4:6 says my speech should be “seasoned” with salt. We all know what food tastes like when too much salt is added. It’s just not edible! But the right amount of salt makes food taste awesome! So does my speech add flavor to a conversation? Do I contribute something from God’s Word when someone opens their heart to me? When someone comes to me discouraged, do I have the right words to encourage them? (Psalm 19:14) We should strive to share verses with everyone we talk to, saved or unsaved, and add flavor to our conversations. Remember, God promises that His Word will not go out void. On the flip side, salt is also used to cause someone to vomit when poison has been swallowed. Do your words cause a Christian to fall? You literally have caused them to spiritually vomit … think about it!

(2) To preserve food – Do your words preserve? There are lost souls everywhere and their souls need to be preserved, if you will. They need to hear the Gospel and they need to hear it with “flavor.” (John 6:68) We have the words of life and they are lost! Do you see a Christian friend heading toward distruction? That friend needs to be preserved – that friend needs you to love her and show her through the scriptures what she is doing wrong. I am close to two dear ladies and both are not hesitant in preserving me 🙂 They would rather see me living for the Lord than to stray and be chastised. That is a characteristic of a good friend!

(3) To heal open sores – We have all gargled with salt water at one time or another. It helps to heal mouth sores. Do your words bring comfort and healing? (Proverbs 12:18) To the lost, your words should be the Gospel. (John 6:68) To the saved, your words should be full of mercy rather than judgment. (Luke 6:36) We say that we love the sinner yet hate the sin – do we really ? We need to remember that we all are sinners. (Romans 7:24) Not one day goes by that we are not tempted and sin because of it. So who are we to consider ourselves better than the one who has fallen? We are told to love one another – only then will our words bring healing to those who are hurting!

Our goal should be to draw others to the scriptures. (Acts 8:31) Just as salt causes us to thirst and to heal, so should our speech be to others. God’s words will not return to us void – He promises us this! (Isaiah 55:11) Every time I look at a salt shaker, you can be sure I look at it differently! 🙂

Day 6 – The Past

Philippians 3:13-14 13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Falling away from the faith happens … it happens to all of us at some point. The key to this statement is this: Do you “stay” fallen?

To the true believer, the Holy Spirit has a way of poking and prodding our conscience. If fact, He does this so much that we just can’t live with ourselves. Our guilty conscience gets the best of us and we finally succumb to the Spirit’s calling. What sweet surrender it is, indeed! 🙂

Praise the Lord for His word – it is a living and breathing Book! In its precious pages are forgiveness and restoration! You can glance over the same verse 100 times and that verse does not pertain to your life. But one day, that verse comes to life with meaning because a circumstance has arisen and God has breathed upon you the life of His word!

1 John 1:9 – If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Just think about it, God is faithful even when we’re not. He is just, even when we’re not. He forgives us and, better still, He cleanses us! Do you understand that, Christian? He cleanses us … He bathes us in Christ’s righteousness! Praise Him!!!

Isaiah 43:25 – I, [even] I, [am] he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.

God will NOT remember our sins … we are cleansed … we are bathed in the righteousness of Christ! Thank You, Lord God, my Redeemer!

1 Cor. 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:

Day 7 – Faint Not

Cor. 4:16-18 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

When I look at this picture, I can truly say that I’ve been there – at the end of my spiritual rope – looking at life’s circumstances and losing trust in my Saviour. It’s hard to admit but I doubt very much that I am alone in the Christian world. Times got hard – my eyes looked at my circumstances instead of looking to Christ, the Author and Finisher of my faith.

Heb. 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

He was there at the beginning of my faith – after all, it was His death – His blood that covered my horrible sin! He was there when I first believed and He is there through His Holy Spirit every minute of my life. It is when I take my eyes of Him and place them on my circumstances that I begin to stumble. I get weary and then I faint along my spiritual path.

Why do we do this to ourselves? It’s so much easier to simply keep our eyes on Christ and live day by day through His word. When we’re not in the word of God, we become weak and faint. God’s words are fuel for the day … get fueled up for your day, Christian. READ … be encouraged … be convicted to the point of repentance … live day by day in Christ!

Day 8 – Biggest Mistake of Your Life!

Matt. 22:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.

God’s word is not only living but it is powerful! Jesus told the Sadducees that they were making a mistake because they didn’t know (understand) the scriptures! But Jesus did end there? No! He went on to say they didn’t know the power of God. God’s words have the power to save … His words are powerful and guide one to salvation.

There is nothing more miraculous than the change that occurs after a person accepts Jesus Christ as his/her Saviour! The Bible speaks of that change in 2 Corinthians 5:17.

2 Cor. 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Have you experienced this change in your life? Did you get saved only to keep living your life in the same way? There’s a problem if you did … you didn’t experience the power of God’s word! You read it, you heard it, you may have even had an “experience” that produced temporary elation. But what about the long-term effects? Were there any? Did that experience result in permanent change as it relates to sin in your life? If you were a shoplifter, did you stop? If you were a chronic liar, did you find yourself under great conviction afterwards? If you were addicted to pornography, did you stop? If not, you did not experience the true salvation spoken of in the scriptures. The scriptures say that those old sinful ways of yours pass away. Some pass away immediately … other sins are a challenge but God sees you through with the power of His Holy Spirit and the scriptures.

Your relationship with God is now new and alive – your old ways are gone and behold new thoughts and ideas have entered in. These thoughts and ideas come from God’s powerful words in the Bible. They produce a change – they produce a desire to change. They produce a new person!

You may not be sinless, Christian, but you will most certainly sin LESS! Your desire will be to follow Christ, not your old life. AND when you DO sin, you fall under extreme conviction and desire to make things right with your Saviour! If you cannot say this is true in your life, then you did not repent of your sin. Repentance brings about the change. Saying you’re sorry doesn’t necessarily come from repentance. A thief can say he’s sorry but if he continues to steal, he did NOT repent. A repentant thief will steal no more … an repentant adulterer will abandon his sin and become a faithful husband … a repentant liar will lie no more. THIS is change … this is truly the renewed life life that Jesus spoke of in John 3:3 – being born again is depicted in the old sinful man being saved from his sin and coming out a changed and renewed man!

Eph. 4:22-32 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. 25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. 29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Day 9 – Cleaving

Ruth 1:11-18 And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? 12 Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should also bear sons; 13 Would ye tarry for them till they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the Lord is gone out against me. 14 And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her. 15 And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law. 16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: 17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. 18 When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her.

Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines cleave as:

“To unite or be united closely in interest or affection; to adhere with strong attachment.”

Love is not only a display of affection but is an action as well. When we love, we put that love on display through our actions, amen? You can’t love someone and not do anything for that person. It’s our natural desire to show our love through our actions.

Ruth showed that love toward her mother in law in one of the most wonderful ways. Ruth “adhered” to her mother in law. She showed her love and devotion by following her wherever she would go. Ruth was willing to abandon everything she had learned as a child for the sake of her mother in law! Ruth’s devotion went all the way to Naomi’s faith – Ruth wanted to follow her anywhere!

Would I have done this? In my brain, I would have thought that there were too many “what if’s” to worry about in a situation like that. After all, how many women do you know would follow their mother in law and not their very own family? It’s something to think about. Naomi’s faith left such an impression with Ruth that Ruth wanted to follow her to an unknown place. Is my faith that evident that others would follow me anywhere?

Ruth’s devotion to her mother in law produced great results. Sometimes it takes years – even generations – to see those results. But Ruth was rewarded in her lifetime for such devotion and love. It’s a great lesson for us. What we do now may affect our grandchildren. What we do now may not even show up for hundreds of years. This was also true in Ruth’s life. Yes, she was blessed with a wonderful husband in Boaz. But look at how it affected her future!

Mt. 1:5 Booz begat Obed of Ruth. (Obed was David’s grandfather.)

God rewarded her love and devotion by allowing Christ to come from her Gentile lineage! Our Saviour chose Ruth! Wow!

Mt. 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.

Mt. 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

Who would have thought that love and devotion would be rewarded in this manner? I’m sure this went far and beyond Ruth’s wildest dream!

Think about it … what we produce now, spiritually speaking, not only has an effect on us but also on our families … and years down the road. We don’t know what will happen but wouldn’t you like to be remembered for being devoted to the Lord in the same manner Ruth was devoted? It’s never too late to start … jump in with both feet and commit your ways to the Lord.

Psalm 37:5-6 5 Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
6 And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.

Day 10 – Patience

~James 5:8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

Being patient in our “ministry for the Lord” is not always an easy thing. What is our ministry? It’s not always a job, like a Pastor. It is our path in life. For example, someone who has been through cancer can help others who are going through cancer. Someone who has lost a child can help someone else who has lost a child. Our life’s trials are a gift – a gift that we can share with others by helping them! Yes, we tend to get weary at times. James encourages us to continue being patient – patient in our work – patient with our brothers and sisters in Christ – patient with being persecuted for righteousness sake.

~Romans 5:3-5 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

Through our trials, we build patience, understanding, compassion – our hearts become established in the Lord. As we learn to immediately turn to the Lord in our time of need, we are able to teach another to do so. We are able to find our comfort, hope and peace in Him! How many Christians have you known who are going through major trials yet you see them surrounded by peace? This is that peace which cannot be explained!

~Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

As we await the Lord’s return for us, let’s strive to keep our hearts established and firm on Him! Let’s share this gift we have received as a result of our trials!! Don’t give up, Christian!! Christ is near!

Day 11 – Faith

~Psalm 119:105 NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

~John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

~John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

~Isaiah 60:19 The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.

~Micah 7:8 Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me.

~Acts 26:23 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.

~John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Faith is like electricity. You can’t see it, but you can see the light. The proof is in the by-product and end result!

~Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Day 12 – In Our Midst

~Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

Oh praise the Lord that our Lord and Saviour is right there with us, in our midst!

~Isaiah 41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

How can we be discouraged when our Lord and Saviour loves us this much and makes these types of promises to us? He says He will hold us up in these times! He actually rejoices over us with joy! This personalizes our relationship with Him!!! Our Emmanuel is always with us!

Thank You, Lord!

Day 13 – Time

~Psalm 119:105 NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

When we find ourselves side tracked and spiritually distracted, we can trace our actions back to the amount of time we spent in God’s Word along the way. When we’re on track, we are in tune with His Word – our path is lit by it and we see clearly. This can’t be any more true than when we go through a physical trial. Rather than blaming God for our plight, we rejoice in His goodness and mercy!

Today’s picture gives us insight as to what is meant by this. Notice that where I was standing when I took this picture, there was less light than at the end of the path. When we spend time in the Word of God, we are able to see more clearly because He illuminates us and the Holy Spirit reveals God’s will to us.

The amount of time spent in the Word will directly reflect in our ability to cope with life’s curves!

Day 14 – Blessed Peace

~John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

What kind of peace does this world have to offer? It comes disguised in materialism. However, “things” bring only temporary happiness. There is no permanent joy in “things.” They do not bring peace at all. In fact, the more stuff we have, the more we have to worry about. Isn’t it a conundrum?

Our precious Saviour is the only one who can truly give this peace and joy – and His comes with a guarantee of eternal life! What blessings! One can be in the middle of a spiritual battle, a physical ailment, or an emotional struggle – but yet, peace surrounds them like a warm blanket! Christ knows what we are going through every step of the way. As we ache when our children are hurting, so does He. He is always waiting to comfort us!

Let Christ work in your heart. There’s no reason to be caught up in worry and stress. Reach out to Him for the peace which is beyond your comprehension!!

~Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Day 15 – Strength

~Psalm 28:7 The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.

Oh that we would allow God to be our strength and shield in 2010! Let’s dedicate ourselves to this very thing this year. Why? Because the Psalmist explains that when his heart trusted in the Lord, he was helped! Who doesn’t want help from the Master Creator? No wonder the Psalmist continued and said that his heart rejoiced and he sang praises because of the Lord’s help!

Each of us is going to go through difficult times this year. There can be no denying it. Instead of fretting, turn to the One who can actually help! Turn to the One who has been to the future and knows the outcome. Turn to the One who can lead you through His Word to comforting words. What you read in God’s Word today will be exactly what you need for tomorrow. God loves you that much!

Day 16 – Don’t Be Afraid!

~Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”

Have you ever been in a situation where you prayed a similar prayer?

Lord, there’s a storm brewing and I can’t see through it to know how it’s going to come out. But Father, I know that You are with me and I know that You can calm those storms with just a word. I pray, Father, that You would guide me and help me to be a good testimony to those around me so they can see that You are with me!”

Just know, dear Christian, we do not go through the storms of life by ourselves. God has given us His Word – He has given us family and friends – He has given us the Holy Spirit who is within us and revealing God’s Word to us as He speaks to us. We are not alone! Ole slew foot, the devil, can stir up the storms all he wants. But we know that the Creator Himself is there with us and will not abandon us.

So what does the Lord tell us to do during these storms? He says to be strong, of good courage and not to fear! Our God, the One and only, has made a promise to us that He will not forsake us. So much so, that He has told us more than just this once in His Word:

~Deuteronomy 4:31 (For the LORD thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.

~Deuteronomy 31:8 And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

~Joshua 1:5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

~1 Chronicles 28:20 And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.

~Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

I don’t know about you, but God knows the frailty of man! In Bible numbers, man’s number is six. God placed this promise to His creation six times in His Word. Does this not encourage your spirit this morning? God cares for us and loves us so much that He has made a promise to us – He’s always with us and He will never forsake us!

Be encouraged today, my friend! Thank You, Father, for Your precious Word to encourage our hearts!

Day 17 – Shelter

Shelter – Kate Plourde

Lord open up my eyes
To behold Your wondrous skies
Keep my thoughts fixed on You
That I may walk in ways of truth

Refrain

You are my hiding place
In Your Word I seek your face
I hide it in my heart
And from it I’ll not depart

Teach me to turn away
From those paths that lead astray
Resting in Your shelter
And there I find peacefulness

Refrain

You are my hiding place
In Your Word I seek your face
I hide it in my heart
And from it I’ll not depart

Day 18 – The Rock that is Higher

From my porch the tears flow as the rain
I wonder when they will end
Forlorn, deserted, forsaken
When will my groanings be silenced

So I continue to cry out
Believing that You will hear
As I beg for reprieve from this testing
A glimmer, a trace of expectation

Alas, hope springs from despair
Creeping in like a flickering candle
Bringing in light through the darkness
And flooding my heart with Son shine

My path becomes clearer with each step
As I walk to my harbor of rest
And meet with the Healer of my soul
At that Rock that is higher than I

Kate Plourde

~Psalm 61:2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed:
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

Day 19 – Shelter

Lord open up my eyes
To behold Your wondrous skies
Keep my thoughts fixed on You
That I may walk in ways of truth

Refrain

You are my hiding place
In Your Word I seek your face
I hide it in my heart
And from it I’ll not depart

Teach me to turn away
From those paths that lead astray
Resting in Your shelter
And there I find peacefulness

Refrain

You are my hiding place
In Your Word I seek your face
I hide it in my heart
And from it I’ll not depart

Day 20 – The Lord is my…

I was driving to work the other day and listening to my audio Bible. At the time, I was in Psalms, and the Lord impressed upon me the words “the Lord is my.” I decided to check to see how many times this phrase is used in Scriptures and what the phrase referenced. I was so blessed by what I discovered, I had to put it down in writing. I hope you are blessed as well!

The Lord is my:

Strength

(Exo 15:2) The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father’s God, and I will exalt him.

I do not know I need anyone, let alone God, until I am down and at my weakest. It is then that I can see God at work and His strength is made evident.

Song

(Psa 118:14) The LORD is my strength and song, and is become my salvation.

God gives me a new song when I finally realize that He is the one that I need.

Rock

(2 Sam 22:2) And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;

God becomes my Rock because there is no other. My salvation cannot rest on anyone else or else it rests on sand.

Fortress

(Psa 18:2) The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

When all the world falls apart around me, I know that I can run to Him and rest in His protection. No one can take away what He has given to me – that is, my salvation.

Deliverer

(Psa 18:2) The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

He delivers me from the evil around me. I do not need to succumb to temptation because He is there to provide a way out.

Shepherd

(Psa 23:1) A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

The Lord gently guides me in the paths that I take but also firmly rebukes me when I am going down the wrong one.

Light

(Psa 27:1) A Psalm of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

My God sheds light on His Word to light my path so that I do not walk in darkness as I once did. I can clearly see what lies ahead.

Salvation

(Psa 27:1) A Psalm of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

There is salvation in no other than in the Lord. What do I have to fear if I am threatened with death if I do not bow down to other gods?

Shield

(Psa 28:7) The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.

My God shields me from the devil’s darts of destruction. He helps me to recognize them through His Word and helps me day by day. What comfort and joy this brings to a child who is going through tumultuous times.

Defence

(Psa 94:22) But the LORD is my defence; and my God is the rock of my refuge.

When I am mocked and wronged, my God will come to my defense. It may not be in my lifetime but this child knows that it will all be made known in eternity – and that’s a long time!

Portion

(Lam 3:24) The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.

At the moment I was born again, salvation became my inheritance. God’s righteousness is over me, not my own, praise His Holy Name!

God

(Zech 13:9) And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.

He no longer is just “god” but He is now my God and Lord.

Helper

(Heb 13:6) So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

It is appropriate that the New Testament closes out this phrase with the fact that God is our Helper. There is no way we could gain salvation on our own. After salvation, there is no way we could keep it or live a perfect life without His doing. He is my Helper.

God is all these things and more to the child of the King! Rejoice in Him this morning!

Day 21 – Displaying Fruit

~Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

If I were to neatly arrange my spiritual fruit in a showcase, would I be displaying many trophies of good fruit?

The Apostle Paul explains to us that we have evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives by the fruit that we bear. Just reading about the fruit of the Spirit brings peace to my heart. Every believer has some trophies to display in his spiritual showcase. Some more than others. We each grow at our own pace but each of us has some.

As I was looking over these wonderful fruit, I found myself lacking. I even found some of my fruit was spotted. I had to ask myself, “Have I been as long suffering as I should have? How am I doing with my temperance (self control)? How’s my faith during times of testing?”

Thank God that He isn’t finished with me yet! As we see a spotted fruit messing up our trophy case, let’s allow the Holy Spirit to work in our lives and work toward producing beautiful fruit for the Lord!

Day 22 – The Past

~Philippians 3:13-14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Pity parties – the devil absolutely loves them! How do these pity parties come about in our lives? I truly believe it is because we dwell on what has happened in our lives and not what is going to happen. The Lord knows our future – He has been there and is most qualified to guide us. To depend on Him to take care of what is going to happen is what we must train ourselves to do.

Dwelling on past sins, mistakes and life’s hardships is not going to help us press toward our Heavenly reward. In fact, it causes us to take our eyes off that mark. Ole slew foot knows what he is doing. He knows that if he can get us to focus on our daily circumstances then we will be useless for the cause of Christ. The unbeliever will see us struggling and will not want what we have. The believer will see us struggling and will not be challenged by our testimony. But our Father knows our trials and our past. If we allow Him, He will mold us into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ! Let’s allow Him and be yielded to His Hand!

~Job 23:10 But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

Day 23 – The Blessing in No

I asked God to take away my pride.
God said, “No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.”

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, “No. Her spirit was whole, her body was only temporary.”

I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, “No. Patience is a by-product of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is earned.”

I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, “No. I give you blessings, happiness is up to you.”

I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, “No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.”

I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, “No. I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.”

I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as God loves me.
God said… “Ahhhh, finally you have the idea!”

“There’s a time and place for everything, for everyone. God works in a mysterious way.”
Just trust in God.

~Author Unknown

Day 24 – Lunch with God

There once was a little boy who wanted to meet God. He knew it was a long trip to where God lived, so he packed his suitcase with Twinkies & a six-pack of root beer, and he started his journey.

When he had gone a few blocks from home, he met an old man. He was sitting in the park near the water just staring at some birds.

The boy sat down next to him and opened his suitcase. He was about to take a drink from his root beer, when he noticed that the old man looked hungry, so he offered him a Twinkie.

The old man gratefully accepted it and smiled at him. His smile was so incredible that the boy wanted to see it again, so he offered him a root beer.

Once again, he smiled at him. The boy was delighted! They sat there all afternoon eating and smiling, but they never said a word.

As it grew dark, the boy realized how tired he was, and he got up to leave, but before he had gone more than a few steps; he turned around, and ran back to the old man, and gave him a hug. The old man gave him his biggest smile ever,

When the boy opened the door to his own house a short time later, his mother was surprised by the look of joy on his face. She asked her son: “What did you do today that made you so happy?”

The child replied: “I had lunch with God.”

But before his mother could respond, he added: “You know what? He’s got the most beautiful smile I’ve ever seen!

Meanwhile, the old man, also radiant with joy, returned to his home. His son was stunned by the look of peace on his face and asked: “Dad, what did you do today that made you so happy?”

He replied: “I ate Twinkies in the park with God.”

But before his son responded, he added: “You know, He’s much younger than I expected.

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring. All of which have the potential to make someone’s day a very special one, or even turn someone’s life around.

~Author Unknown

Day 25 – The Cross

A young man was at the end of his road , seeing no way out, he dropped to his knees in prayer.

“Lord, I can’t go on,” he said. “I have too heavy a cross to bear.”

The Lord replied, “My son, if you can’t bear its weight, just place your cross inside this room.

Then, open that other door and pick out any cross you wish.”

The man was filled with relief and said, “Thank you Lord,” and he did as he was told.

Upon entering the other room, he saw many crosses; some so large the tops were not visible. Then, he spotted a tiny cross leaning against a far wall.

“I’d like that one, Lord,” he whispered. The Lord replied, “My son, that is the cross you just brought in.”

When life’s problems seem overwhelming, it helps to look around and see what other people are coping with. You may consider yourself far more fortunate than you imagined.

YOUR CROSS

Whatever your cross
Whatever your pain
There will always be sunshine
After the rain

Perhaps you may stumble
Perhaps even fall
But God’s always there
To help you through it all

~Author Unknown

Day 26 – God Does Hear!

~Psalm 3:3-4 But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. (3) I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah. (4)

As we’ve been going through this series, we have been learning about God’s attributes. Today’s verse teaches us that God does hear us when we cry to Him. I can’t begin to tell you how many times someone has told me that they do not feel as though God hears them. They continue to say that their prayers seem to stop at the ceiling. Does that sound familiar to you? Don’t believe it for a minute. God tells us that He does hear us and that He stands ready to help us. David said he cried with his voice and God heard him. God hears us as well!

The weary believer gets to a point in his life that he is overwhelmed and feels as though he has been totally abandoned. However, our God stands ready to shield us from total despair if we allow Him. Sometimes we just cannot see His shield in our lives because we are so absorbed in our circumstances. That is why it is so important that we stay in the Word. Reading brings life to our down heartedness. Reading brings to light God’s promises and comforting words. One can hardly read Psalms without walking away with a ray of hope. Why is it that we fail to go to the place where healing can occur when we need it the most?

The best part of the verse is that God is the lifter of the weary believer’s head! Whether your head is stuck on a pillow because you’re exhausted or your head is drooped because of depression, God WILL lift it. He is there waiting and willing to do this. Read the Word and envelope yourself within the pages of encouragement. God will wrap His arms around you and bring you that much needed comfort and peace.