focused

Friday, August 31, 2012 (6:25 a.m.)

Blessed Father,

I love You. My mind keeps drifting, as does the Internet checking. Right now I am asking You to help me stay here. Focused on You!

(9:59 a.m.)

Well that didn’t happen, now did it? Coffee with a neighbor, glitches with the computer and overall distracting thoughts keep taking me away. That very phrase has me substituting “Jesus” for “Calgon” and an actual smile occurs on my face.

I keep thinking, hoping, praying that I will stay focused long enough to complete my thoughts with You then “Bam!” something “shiny” gets my attention.

Father, forgive me. You are far more important than ALL the things I keep putting before You. Somewhere along the way this morning I started humming ♫The Church’s One Foundation♫ Looking at the lyrics and putting in my own name instead of “The Church” I readily sing ♫…’s One Foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord; She is His new creation By water and the Word: From heav’n He came and sought her To be His holy bride; With His own blood He bought her, And for her life He died♫

Why, on Your green earth and all that is holy, does this not seem enough to keep me focused right here with You? Blessed Three-In-One, I love You. What is it that is going on within (or is it with out) me? Where is the hope I know I have in You? Why do I not see it as readily as once I did?

Reading the PURPOSE of Peter’s second letter to all believers everywhere, I ask You, yes please! Sign me up. “To help his readers keep their focus on God’s grace and truth.”

While looking at The Big Picture of this book a paragraph begins, “Why do pains, disappointments and sins of life bring us down?” And ends with, “The God of the universe has made Himself available to us on a personal level. As we get to know Him, He will help us overcome our shortcomings and replace them with self-control, kindness, love, forgiveness, perseverance, patience and peace.”

I ask You Faithful, Loving, Father to help me adhere to Peter’s urging to ‘learn to know You better and better’ (2Peter 1:2b). “We couldn’t be more sure of what we saw and heard – God’s glory, God’s voice. The prophetic Word was confirmed to us. You’ll do well to keep focusing on it. It’s the one light you have in a dark time as you wait for daybreak and the rising of the Morning Star in your hearts” (v. 19).

All my hope is in YOU Lord. Help me know You well enough to remember this always. I love You. Thank You. Amen.

(452 words ~ 11:06 a.m.)

fifteen minutes later

Thursday, August 30, 2012 (6:21 a.m.)

Most Generous God and Father,

Here we are again. Fifteen minutes later than when I first sat down with You. There was a sunrise to see and color not to be missed. [And an untitled document that I wish I had ‘saved’ J]

Just as I had begun before, I was thanking You for the many things You so freely give to us. Your generosity is beyond my comprehension. And Your greatest gift of all? The ♫True Love♫ You so generously, mercifully and graciously provide.

That’s exactly where the song had begun before. I’m changing the words here to intensify the sentiment. ♫YOU give to us so we’ll give to You TRUE Love, TRUE Love And on and on it will always be TRUE Love, TRUE Love♫

All this week I have worked a little here and a little there in starting a prayer, reading some verses, thinking I know where I’m going the rest of the day and being somewhat frustrated at the end. This morning Dearest Generous Father I am asking Your guidance. Your perfect time management skills. Your goodness. Your grace. And especially, Your ♫TRUE Love♫.

Father God, You are so incredibly good to us. Starting back last Saturday You called me to ‘listen’ and to know that You alone art God. This led me to Deuteronomy 6 and A Call to Love God. Oh that I could/would love You as I should!

Isn’t it incredible [how else are You!] that as I go back into this particular chapter right now it is talking about the importance of loving You with ALL our heart, soul, and might? This chapter spells out the warnings and dangers of forgetting You and serving other ‘gods’. It also is filled with the importance of teaching our children to love You as well.

Father, You are first and foremost. You ARE! And if this is really true, how is that I keep getting sidetracked? Running off here and there to the too many things I think have to get done. Thank You that You are ALWAYS here to remind me.

And isn’t that the perfect segue into yet another song? ♫I walk along the many streets You always walk along with me, And every step I take recalls how much in love we’ll always be. Oh, how can I forget You? When there is ALWAYS something here to remind me… I was born to love You, and I will always be free ‘Cause You’ll always be a part of me♫ [Several words were changed here to fit Your Truth!]

Another example of the sidetracking rabbit trails I am prone to these days is yesterday when I so abruptly left our time together to rush out the door to other things. There was a song that was so appropriate to the beginning of the day AND a verse to match it. I listed neither and I thank You profusely right now for reminding me again of what they were.

♫Lord of all creation Of water, earth and sky The heavens are Your tabernacle Glory to the Lord on High God of Wonders beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy The universe declares Your majesty You are holy, holy… Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth♫

Yes Father! Hallelujah to You! The Truth of this song was so perfectly appropriate to the beauty and majesty of yesterday’s early morning sky. Before leaving our time so suddenly yesterday Ephesians 5:8-10 struck it’s chord with me. Living as a Child of the Light, “You groped your way through the murk once, but no longer. You’re out in the open now. The bright light of Christ makes your path plain. So no more stumbling around. Get on with it! The good, the right, the true – these are the actions appropriate for daylight hours. Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it.”

Oh most dear and blessedly generous Father, help me do exactly that! Show me, guide me, instill Your mighty power within me that I would know, TRULY know what and how to accomplish exactly all You have for me this day.

There is SO much I could get lost in doing. Make Your path clear to me that I would not stumble around. I love You so incredibly much and I desperately want to serve You well. Empower and embolden me in this regard. I love You. I thank You. I ask You. I seek You. And I praise You. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(755 words ~ 7:17 a.m.)

appropriate

Wednesday, August 29, 2012 (5:47 a.m.)

Awesome God of Glory,

What a great way to begin the day! Recognizing You as the holy God You are, singing that out to You and being here to watch more beauty unfold in Your glorious sky.

Yesterday was beautiful. Appreciative comments about the sky continued late into last night. It’s only appropriate that another song came straight to mind this morning.

indifference

Tuesday, August 28, 2012 (5:59 a.m.)

Awesome Glorious Omni God,

How long has it been since I’ve actually gotten up, come to the window and watched the morning sky with You? Forgive my laziness. And apathy.

Thank You Father for the willingness to come out here. To actively seek You. Thank You for the desire to sit through the rather slow, bland opening of the day. The clouds were mostly gray, with just a hint of texture against an almost yellow sky. Not at all what I was hoping.

But then it happened! Such an intense shade of fiery pink that I gasped. Loudly. Blessed Father, it was gorgeous! Extraordinary. And I was here to see it. Thank You.

Thank You for the reminder verse this morning. Without meaning to I have become quite Laodicean. Lukewarm. Halfhearted. Indifferent. Which took me directly to Revelation 3:19. “I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference.”

Reading there I went up to verse fourteen and down to twenty-one. I don’t claim to fully understand it all but I do know I don’t want to continue being ‘stale’, ‘stagnant’ and ‘make You want to vomit’ (v.16 MSG).

Verse eighteen tells me to buy my gold from You, “gold that’s been through the refiner’s fire” so I would be rich. It also advises that I buy my clothes from You as well, “clothes designed in Heaven” so I will no longer go around half-naked. It’s the medicine for my eyes that I am requesting. Medicine so I “can see, really see.”

Today Blessed Lord Jesus. This very day, as You stand at the door and knock, let me hear You call and open the door (v. 20). Let me look at You. Turn from my indifference. About face! And run after God! (19). Enthusiastically.

It is said that You are able to do for me that which I cannot do for myself. It is this I pray. Let me live at my best. For You!

I love You. I thank You. Amen.

(344 words ~ 8:12 a.m.)

learning Truth

Monday, August 27, 2012 (7:55 a.m.)

Blessed Father,

While on Saturday You had me learning more about listening, yesterday You taught me more about learning. Speak to me much more about this today. Yes Dear Blessed Father, there is so very much for me to learn. To practice. To put into practice. And to become.

Father, these past few days I’ve been able to hear myself. REALLY hear the complaining and whining. Not the least bit attractive. Not at all! Yesterday You helped me find the Truth I was looking for in Your Word.

Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words cause quarrels.” Even in finding this one Truth, there is so much more to be gleaned from the surrounding chapters and verses. Help me learn, practice and apply the Truth of Your Word Most Blessed Father.

“Disaster strikes like a cyclone and the wicked whirl away. But the good man has a strong anchor” (Proverbs 10:25). The comment accompanying this Truth tells that an anchor will never stop the storm, but it will hold us firmly from drifting off to destruction. It challenges us to be content and to learn what God is teaching us through it. Thank You Father.

“Your own soul is nourished when you are kind; it is destroyed when you are cruel” (11:17).

“Some people like to make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise soothe and heal” (12:18). “Anxious hearts are heavy, but a word of encouragement does wonders!” (v.25)

“A wise man controls his temper. He knows that anger causes mistakes. A relaxed attitude lengthens a man’s life; jealousy rots it away” (14:29-30).

“Gentle words cause life and health; griping brings discouragement. A wise man is hungry for truth, while the mocker feeds on trash” (15:4,14).

There is so very much for me to learn here. How I ask that You would do in and through me all that is necessary to make this learning complete. I long to be a woman who speaks Truth kindly, gently, in love. Help me Father. I desperately need You in this.

Thank You for always being here to teach us. Improve and empower my learning process I pray. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(372 words ~ 8:35 a.m.)

"Listen"

Saturday, August 25, 2012 (8:03 a.m.)

Glorious, Awesome, Wonderful God,

Thank You for being You. I fail so often at the things I think and try and want to be and do. And You are kind and gentle and loving and forgiving. Thank You.

Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for Your power and Your strength. Thank You that I get to come before You with a truly thankful heart.

You alone art God. Yesterday I repeatedly noticed a call to “Listen”. And I wanted to. Truly I did. And then I got busy… 

adoration

Friday, August 24, 2012 (7:08 a.m.)

(9:42 a.m.)

Blessed Lord,

Let’s finally get started. I love You. And thank You. And long to worship and adore You.

Would you just look at that? I ‘put it out there’ and the music started right away. ♫O Come, Let Us Adore Him♫ originally from ♫O Come, All Ye Faithful♫ A little early for Christmas music but absolutely spot on for adoration and praise.

Mm. A look in Your Word and the anxiousness with which I began this approach to You has been calmed by a wave of Your blessed peace rushing over me. Thank You for Your willingness to meet me at every call upon Your name.

Even yesterday, in the midst of sheer frustration, “Jesus” slipped out of my mouth in the most unflattering way. It didn’t take much time at all for me to recognize my desperate need for You. Right then and there in that particular moment of exasperation, You settled the vicious storm brewing inside me. Thank You. Thank You. Thank You!

Thank You for ALL the seemingly negative situations that are taking place in and around me. Thank You for the opportunity to set them all aside for this much needed time alone with You.

You Blessed Savior are righteous. And I long to call upon Your holy name in adoration so much more than in times of irritation.

When You spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4) You accepted her exactly as she was. You told her that God is not concerned with the externals of religion. Your words to her then speak loudly to me now.

“It’s who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That’s the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before Him in their worship. God is sheer being itself – Spirit. Those who worship Him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration” (John 4:23-24).

It is my deepest, truest desire to worship and adore as You so rightly deserve. Let that be who I really, truly am. I love You so very much. And I thank You. Amen.

(381 words ~ 10:24 a.m.)

musical question

Thursday, August 23, 2012 (6:54 a.m.)

Blessed Father,

Just now I awoke with a musical question. ♫Are you havin’ any fun?♫ It’s a legitimate query and I thank You so much for bringing it to my attention. Thank You as well for Your Word to which to take it.

There are far more than a hundred entries for ‘fun’ in the concordances I looked in. Thank You that it is even listed in the topical index of The Life Recovery Bible, followed immediately by “(see Enjoyment)”.

Upon going to ‘enjoyment’ I was sent also to ‘happiness’ and ‘joy’. In following these entries I’m taken to Psalm 65:1-4 and a devotional entitled Joy in God’s Presence. Father God, how I thank You for all Your Word has to say on so many subjects.

Starting with verse one I read the word we shared together yesterday. “O God in Zion, we wait before You in silent praise”. Verse four ends with “What joy awaits us among all the good things there” (in the courts of Your holy tabernacle). Your Word affirms our invitation to meet You there. Thank You.

As I continue digging and searching Your Word, Eugene Peterson’s writing of Galatians 5:22-23 calls out to me. Have I never read this before?

“But what happens when we live God’s way [when the Holy Spirit controls our lives]? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard – things like affection for others [love], exuberance about life [joy], serenity [peace]. We develop a willingness to stick to things [patience], a sense of compassion in the heart [kindness], and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people [goodness]. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments [faithfulness], not needing to force our way in life [gentleness], able to marshal and direct our energies wisely [self-control].”

And with this incredible Truth I turn to a Theology in Brief in the Illustrated Bible Handbook, given to me long ago by such a dear friend. Under the title “Faith and Feelings” the fourth point that is made advises that we never “judge the strength or validity of our faith by our feelings.” We are to instead “let God shape our feelings as we relate to Him.” It reminds that we “cannot change our own feelings simply by willing them to be different.” But that as we focus on who You are and the meaning of our relationship with You, You “will graciously work in our emotional life as well as in our understanding, and shape us” to YOUR image!

So as I continue with the original musical question You posed for me this morning, I ask that You enable me to answer with a profound and resounding, “YES!”

♫What y’getting’ out o’ livin’? What good is what you’ve got If you’re not havin’ any fun?♫

Thank You Blessed Father for Your love and Your faithfulness. Help me follow You to the fruit of Your Spirit this day. I love You. Thank You. Amen.

(505 words ~ 8:29 a.m.)

PRAISE!

Wednesday, August 22, 2012 (9:29 a.m.)

Awesome, Wonderful, Powerful Father God,

Thank You! Six hours ago I woke up and started in thinking right away. Almost immediately a word came to mind. A command, if You will. PRAISE!

Without much thought at all I started singing the Doxology from my youth. ♫Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host; Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.♫

Now that’s the way to start one’s day! Thank You Father. Thank You for that thought. That song. And the acronym that came straight from it. Positive Remembrances Allow Intimate Soul Enhancement.

Father, I confess to feeling so unmercifully confused here of late. I can’t figure out why it is that I refuse to get with the program of taking care of things. My work ethic is still intact. It’s the motivation that is missing. For every single thing I think I may or may not want to do, I ask myself “WHY?” “What difference will it make?”

I don’t know if I’m being rebellious. Or stubborn? Or if there is any wisdom that is being hatched here.

I don’t even want to spend anymore time trying to figure it out. Truly Father, I just want to praise You! ♫Praise You! Praise You in the morning, praise You at the noontime. Praise You. Praise You. Praise You when the sun goes down♫ And as I learn to do that better than I have been, I ask that I would also learn to love and serve You better as well.

Ephesians 1:3 is listed as the verse related to the Doxology I sang earlier. As I read it in The Life Recovery Bible, I read through verse six and the accompanying comment as well.

“How we praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every blessing in heaven because we belong to Christ” (v.3). “Now all praise to God for His wonderful kindness to us and His favor that He has poured out upon us because we belong to His dearly loved Son” (v.6). Oh, that I would learn such praise Blessed Father. It is truly my heart’s desire. Work in me that I would!

The comment at the bottom of the pages reiterates the fact that You alone are ‘sovereign’ (supreme in power) over all the details of our lives. I don’t know if that’s what it is I continue struggling with. Where I’ve fought all these years for this circumstance or that injustice, now I feel as if I’ve just resigned that whatever is going to happen is going to happen whether I care and become involved or not.

YOU, alone, know the confusion taking place in my heart. You alone are sovereign. I trust You. I depend on You. I ask You to do in and through me that which I cannot do for myself. Show me when to care and exert myself and when to rest and let things go. “YOU do it!” Blessed Father and I will remember to Praise You.

Thank You for this blessed reminder. Thank You that just like that another song has started. ♫Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O 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♫

Yes Father. Without even knowing it… there’s that word again! Praise You. Praise Him. And the praise the Holy Spirit too. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(602 words ~ 10:17 a.m.)

turn

Tuesday, August 21, 2012 (7:48 a.m.)

Most Glorious, Awesome, Wonderful Father God,

THANK YOU! My first thoughts this morning? “Worship.” “Praise.” “Bless.” And almost immediately the music started.

♫Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangely dim In the light of His glory and grace♫

Right now I’m so excited [AGOG! J] I don’t know which thought to offer next. My original plan was to launch right in with the song that came practically simultaneously with the first. But now I have exciting Bible verses to explore as well.

Your Word always trumps earthly music! 2Corinthians 4:18 speaks to encourage disheartened believers. Paul knew Your Spirit is always at work in us. That is why he offered this Truth to his reading audience [which right now includes me, thank You very much! J] “we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary and what is unseen is eternal”.

Father God, how I thank You for the surrounding verses which offer us Confidence and Motivation. Hope and above all, Truth. Your blessed, abiding Truth. Thank You for reminders. Thank You for music. Thank You even for secular songs that help me see You in the very midst of every situation.

♫There is Someone walking behind you, turn around, look at Me. There is Someone watching your footsteps, turn around, look at me… there’s Someone who’ll stand beside you… And there’s Someone who’ll love and guide you… I’ve waited, but I’ll wait forever for you to come to Me. Look at Someone who really loves you, yeah, really loves you. Turn around, look at Me.♫

Thank You Blessed Father. What an honor. Privilege. Blessing. Gift. To be loved, really loved by the Creator of the Universe. Never abandoned. Nor forgotten. Thank You for the opportunity to turn around every single time I find myself on a path that is not Your best for me. Thank You for never failing to call out to me whenever it is necessary that I turn.

Thank You Father. For Your love. Your protection. Your guidance. Your love. Your mercy. And Your grace. Worship You. Praise You. Bless You. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(380 words ~ 9:19 a.m.)

refusing?

Monday, August 20, 2012 (7:08 a.m.)

Blessed Father,

I’m here asking for Your help. I’ve been talking to You much of the morning, trying to order my thoughts.

At first I thought I was going to spend time pursuing with You the avenue of disappointment. Now I ask instead, am I refusing You anything? It’s absolute not something I’m setting out to do intentionally. But I wonder…

Every single time I say or think, “I don’t care” or “It doesn’t really matter” am I just being plain stubborn? Without meaning to, am I refusing to: obey Your commands (Leviticus 26:15)? Listen to Your voice (Numbers 14:22)? Turn to You, the Lord, the God of Israel (2Chronicles 36:13)? Give my heart to You (Psalm 78:8)? Be comforted (Jeremiah 31:15)?

Thank You Father that I have Your Word to turn to always. Right now I am reading commentaries in The Life Recovery Bible and again am encouraged. I read how Your ‘anger grew’ against Your rebellious people because ‘they continually complained and refused to trust’ You (Psalm 78). I continue reading of Your power and past acts and I see myself in Your cowardly people. “When they should have boldly pressed forward, they ran from the conflict like cowards.”

Hello! Just how much running have I done recently? In Your eyes does avoiding resemble running?

Over in Jeremiah I read the comment for chapter 31. “Here God paints a joyful picture of recovery, with all the details of repentance, sorrow, forgiveness, laughter, restoration, and hope. Once again God’s people would follow His plan for them, and He would receive their worship and praise. We can experience this kind of restoration, too. We start the process by admitting our need for God’s healing power in our life.” [Yes! I do!] “God desires to rebuild His relationship with us, no matter how far we may have strayed from Him. He delights in finding new ways to exhibit His love to those who belong to Him.”

Most Blessed Father God, I confess just how much I have allowed disappointment and sadness to cloud over any sense of hope I usually have had. I bring to You the idealistic thoughts and dreams I once based my belief system on and ask You to rebuild them all according to Your will and Your way.

I love You. I long to live out this life as YOU desire I do. Filled with faith, hope and love (1Corinthians 13:13) NOT doubt, pessimism and apathy! Work in me Blessed Father. Through me. With me. Thank You.
Please remove this refusing attitude as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12). Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(447 words ~ 8:19 a.m.)

"Thank You"

Saturday, August 18, 2012 (6:49 a.m.)

Awesome, Wonderful, Powerful God,

Thank You. Still this morning I am feeling a sense of sadness and I believe fully that “No matter what happens, [we are to] always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1Thessalonians 5:18).

(8:02 a.m.)

So tell me Blessed Father, what is one to do when she is saying the ‘right’ words [“Thank You”] but not feeling them? Thank You for reminding me just now that "feelings aren’t facts". I’ve been taught again and again to go with the facts and the feelings will follow. So I continue thanking You.

And I AM grateful! I know that. There are tiny little things that pop up all over the place to remind me to smile and say “Thank You”. So I’m asking You Dearest ‘Dad’, help me move up two more verses in this letter Paul wrote to the Believers in Thessalonica. Verses 16 and 17, “Always be full of joy. Never stop praying.”           

These are two more things I cannot do on my own. So I look again to You.

"use this"

Friday, August 17, 2012 (6:50 a.m.)

Blessed, Beloved Father God,

I am here asking Your blessing on a situation. A window was broken during a game of golf and I’ve been “Poor Thing”-ing it ever since. I mean how else does one offer support for someone when something so unexpected happens?

The answer to that very question came equally unexpectedly at 5:38 this morning. That’s when my “Poor Guy” mantra changed to “Use this Lord, even this.”

(7:59 a.m.)

Father God, no one I know wants to have to pay the price for an accident. It’s one of those things that happen. How I thank You for putting me back to the “in ALL things give thanks” (1Thessalonians 5:18) mindset. I confess to wallowing for awhile in the unfairness of it all. [I know, I know, “fair is a place we go to judge hogs” J]

All this has worked together to bring me again to Isaiah 38:16. And that in turn has me once more reading about Old Testament history and prayer.

Most Beloved Father God, how I truly thank You for Your love. Your mercy. Your grace. You alone art God and I for one am grateful! Thank You for the freedom You have provided us in even approaching You in the first place. Forgive me every single time I take that very gift for granted.

Forgive my whining. And my sense of sadness for a circumstance I truly do not understand. Use it to Your good and Your glory Most Blessed God and Father. As King Hezekiah prayed when asking You for a miracle concerning his health, “Lord, use this hard time to make my spirit live again. Help my spirit become strong and healthy. Help me become well! Help me live again!”

Oh yes Dearest Father God. Let me learn to bring every seemingly hard time to You asking only that You “use this”. Blessed Lord and Father I love You so very much. Thank You for the opportunity and privilege of bringing every turn of events to You. Thank You. Bless You. Praise You. I love You. Amen.

(353 words ~ 8:42 a.m.)

all things

Wednesday, August 15, 2012 (7:17 a.m.)

Blessed Father God,

This is quite the surprise. When I first thought we would be discussing “all things” this morning, I was sure it was going to coincide with the verse from the other day (Romans 8:28). Right behind that came 1Thessalonians 5:18a, “In all things give thanks”.

1Chronicles 29:11 couldn’t have been further from my mind. Yet here it is. In all its glory! “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is yours, O Lord, and this is Your Kingdom. We adore You as the One who is over all things.”

What a timely reminder! Most unexpected. And wonderfully received. Thank You Father. Thank You. 

And...

Tuesday, August 14, 2012 (7:21 a.m.)

Awesome God,

I’m just here to say, “I love You.” That simple statement immediately brought to mind the words to a similar song by Stevie Wonder. No special reason to call. Just ♫to say I love You And I mean it from the bottom of my heart♫

And the “And I do” I said out loud right after singing that brought up a completely different song. And how absolutely perfect it is!

♫To know, know, know Him is to love, love, love Him Just to see His smile, makes my life worthwhile To know, know, know Him is to love, love, love Him and I do♫

Father, I read these words and I imagine myself right there in them with You. There’s a bit of a stretch when singing ♫I’ll be good to Him♫ because I know that I could never out ‘good’ You. And even knowing ♫I’ll bring love to Him♫ could never be as pure as I would want it to be.

But the promise that comes next is one I have always banked my belief in You on. ♫Everyone says there’ll come a day when I’ll walk alongside of Him♫ And that very thought sends me straight into another song.

♫I come to the garden alone While the dew is still on the roses And the voice I hear, falling on my ear The Son of God discloses And He walks with me And He talks with me And He tells me I am His own And the joy we share as we tarry there None other has ever known♫

All this because I simply stated the obvious, I love You! It was the love Your disciples had for You that enabled them to have fellowship with You. Even after Your death. And Your resurrection.

The verse (John 20:20) accompanying the hymn ♫In the Garden♫ completes the truth that began in verse nineteen. “After greeting them, He showed them His hands and side. And how wonderful was their joy as they saw their Lord!”

That is exactly what I am depending on Blessed God and Father. One day I will be in Your presence walking with You and talking with You and hearing You tell me I am Your own And the joy we’ll share as we tarry there None other will ever have known. Not even Your blessed disciples.

I love You Father. I thank You. And I am grateful to have had this time together to remind myself of just how awesome You are. Thank You. Amen.

(426 words ~ 8:11 a.m.)

enjoyable

Monday morning August 13, 2021 (8:37 a.m.)

M Resort ~ Spa ~ Casino

Henderson, NV 

Mm Most Marvelous Masterful Father God,

This is somewhere new to us. It’s been most enjoyable. A nice ride over. Good time here. And returning home soon. Quick. Easy. Enjoyable.

Yes Father. Thank You for the opportunity to enjoy new surroundings. Thank You for fun and laughter. And music!

The music from our childhood, into our adulthood. The music and story of Jersey Boys. Our reason for coming over on a Sunday and leaving to go right back on Monday.

What is most enjoyable through this quick turn around trip is learning more about other people. Workers. Those sitting near us. A traveler from Scotland, sharing the rainy downpour with our son. There were accents aplenty, each from somewhere else in the world. All made even more enjoyable for us by our son’s interactions with all of them. In such a short period of time, information was shared with others.

Most Blessed Father God, there are some very dear loved ones at home going through a huge situation at least one of them did not see coming. I don’t even know how to pray Your best for them. I do not presume to know Your will, nor what to offer as even a semblance of support.

And right there, Romans 8:28 comes to mind. “And we know that ALL things [What things? Some things? ALL things!] work together for the good of those who love God – those whom He has called according to His plan.”

Father, how I ask You to empower and embolden me to share Your love and Your Word with the principle players of this particular scenario. Your Word is rife with stories exactly along these lines. As the Preacher/Teacher of Ecclesiastes (1:9) has said repeatedly down through the ages, “There is nothing new under the sun.”

Take this family, Most Beloved Father, and make of them EXACTLY what You have for them. Bless them. Keep them. Make Your face shine upon them and be gracious to them. Turn Your face toward them and give them peace. (Number 6:24-26)

I love You so very much and all this I ask in Your Blessed Son’s Most Holy Name. Thank You. We love You. Amen.

(378 words ~ 9:10 a.m.)

Self-perception

Saturday, August 11, 2012 (7:37 a.m.)

Awesome Father,

You are so good. So holy. So loving. So kind. Thank You. Thank You that we are made in Your image (Genesis 1:26). And that You ‘saw everything You had made and it was very good’ (v. 31).

According to different translations it was: ‘supremely good’ (CEB); ‘suitable, pleasant’ (AMP); and You were ‘very pleased’ (GNT); ‘so good, so very good’ (MSG).

Sometimes I forget that we are “crowned with glory and honor” (Psalm 8:5). Too often I focus on the negative. The flaws and failings of myself and others. Then on a day like today, I am reminded. “We are created in the image of God, and thus have infinite worth and value. Our respect for others, and our acceptance of ourselves, and our sense of the worth of every individual, rest on this foundation.” (Illustrated Bible Handbook)

Father God, thank You for the opportunity to be reminded that “people with perfect health, living in a perfect environment, rebelled” against You. (The Life Recovery Bible)

You provided us the opportunity to carry Your image and likeness into the world. We do it imperfectly. You also gave us the privilege to think, feel, value and choose. Again, not perfect.

BUT! Because Jesus came and did perfectly what You sent Him into the world to do, we all have the potential for restoration. And why? Because You are so good. So holy. So loving. So kind.

Thank You Father, for all You are and all You created us to be. Help us to glorify, honor and enjoy You this day. It is in Your Son’s most holy name that I pray. Thank You Father. I love You. Amen.

(285 words ~ 8:21 a.m.)

incredible inspiration

Thursday, August 9, 2012 (7:07 a.m.)

Incredibly Wonderful Father,

Thank You. A flash of inspiration from You last night and a near four year old is now traveling all over the pool on his back.

I used the word amazing so many times last week that a different word was definitely needed for this incredible feat. Father God, thank You that I got to be witness to such a thrill.

I don’t wish to take Job 32:8 out of context to meet my circumstance. “But there is a spirit in man, and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding” (KJV). YOU gave me the inspiration last night. YOU did this Lord.

I got to be a conduit for such an exceptionally simple and fun experiment in the water. And I thank You.

Looking at other translations of this same verse I am reminded that it is not my age, nor my experience that is allowing these itty-bittys to become so much more water safe than before. Father God, thank You. Thank You for inspiring me. Thank You for using me to teach others.

Thank You for the Truth found in Your Word. The Contemporary English Version says very simply, “Now I truly realize wisdom comes from God.”

It was Elihu (son of Barakel the Buzite) that told Job and his friends, “I’m a young man, an you are all old [ouch! J] and experienced. That’s why I kept quiet and held back from joining the discussion. I kept thinking ‘Experience will tell. The longer you live, the wiser you become.’ But I see I was wrong – it’s God’s Spirit in a person, the breath of the Almighty One, that makes wise human insight possible. The experts have no corner on wisdom; getting old [ouch! J] doesn’t guarantee good sense. So I’ve decided to speak up. Listen well! I’m going to tell you exactly what I think” (MSG).

Father God, I’ve worked with people in the water for a good many years. Decades actually. Thank You that the excitement I have in watching them become much more fishlike continues to grow with each success. Thank You that You are truly the God of inspiration.

Today, again, I ask You to provide me the inspiration needed to help these young ones and their parents become evermore safe in and around the water. I love You Father. And I thank You. Amen.

(402 words ~ 8:14 a.m.)

hoarding

Wednesday, August 8, 2012 (7:16 a.m.)

Most Blessed, Awesome, Incredible, Holy God,

It’s been almost an hour that I sat down to start this with You. I keep struggling with the word that is obvious. It’s not the least bit attractive in today’s society. It has taken on an extremely negative connotation. Yet here I am. Asking You to speak with me about hoarding. ACK!

I was confronted yesterday with a situation that I have allowed to grow exponentially out of control the past two years. Items continue being acquired and stored at the home of my parents. Both of these parents no longer physically here with us.

Father God - deep cleansing breath – do a mighty work in me regarding hoarding. The words used in the thesaurus don’t make it look nearly as bad as it does in reality. “Stockpile, store, collect…” Seems simple enough. Until one really takes a good, long look at it.

Father, I have allowed this collecting and storing of stuff to continue. With every churn of my stomach as I’ve watched it grow evermore out of control, finally I turn to Your Word. And here again You are prepared for my asking long in advance.

The Preacher/Teacher had a couple of things to say about it in Ecclesiastes, as did Jesus (Matthew 6:19-21) many years later.

Under the subject title Have Respect for God, these few words speak volumes. “There is another serious problem I have seen under the sun. Hoarding riches harms the saver” (Ecclesiastes 5:13). And just below The Value of Generosity, “Don’t hoard your goods, spread them around. Be a blessing to others. This could be your last night” (11:2).

Father God, I KNOW in my heart the importance of sharing. Help me become one who willingly and easily does so!

Matthew’s narration of Jesus’ words regarding A Life of God-Worship says simply, “Don’t hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust – or worse! – stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it’s safe from moth and rust and burglars. It’s obvious, isn’t it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.”

Ah, yes, most Blessed Lord. Let my treasure be with You! Help me have the conversations I have to have regarding this current situation. I love You so very much. Thank You for Your presence here with me and Your Word on the subject. I love You. Amen.

(418 words ~ 8:10 a.m.)

hotter

Tuesday, August 7, 2012 (6:27 a.m.)

Blessed Father,

Thank You. I honestly don’t know what else to say. It’s hot. Hotter than it’s been this summer. And it just doesn’t seem like I should come to You talking about the weather. Yet here I am. Doing exactly that.

(6:57 a.m.)

I like when You accept exactly what I have to offer. I tried so hard to come up with something more significant to discuss with You. All that time I spent thinking this was nonsense yet Your Word tells me differently.

In Psalm 39 David described how the fires inside himself grew hotter as he attempted to stay quiet and quit complaining about the ungodly around him. “But as I stood there silently the turmoil within me grew to the bursting point. The more I mused, the hotter the fires inside. Then at last I spoke and pled with God: Lord, help me to realize how brief my time on earth will be. Help me to know that I am here for but a moment more. My life is no longer than my hand! My whole lifetime is but a moment to You. Proud man! Frail as breath! A shadow! And all his busy rushing ends in nothing. He heaps up riches for someone else to spend. And so, Lord, my only hope is in You” (2-7).

How refreshing it is for me that even a simple comment about the weather can take me into Your Word to the reminding Truth that our only hope IS in You!

Thank You Father. Thank You that even James used a hot summer sun to illustrate a point to Jewish believers so very many years ago. “As the sun rises and gets hotter, its heat dries up the plants, and the flowers fall off. The flowers that were so beautiful are now dead. That’s how it is with the rich. While they are still making plans for their business they will die” (James 1:11).

It is the Truth of these words and the weather forecast for today that takes me again to Your mighty and holy Word. Psalm 90:12, “Teach us to number our days and recognize how few they are; help us to spend them as we should.” Hot or not! Help us to spend our days as YOU would have us.

I love You Lord. It’s hot and still I thank You! Amen.

(401 words ~ 7:42 a.m.)

unsure

Monday, August 6, 2012 (6:53 a.m.)

Blessed Father,

I’m not sure

(8:03 a.m.)

That is exactly right! I AM unsure! Thank You that even in a beginning context such as that, Your Truth immediately rings through.

I thought I was going to explore Psalm 23:6 with You this morning. That is what I come here planning to do. Then I got off track by more than just a little bit. Pastor Ed referred to it yesterday as following rabbit trails.

Thank You that as soon as I was ready to come back here You knew exactly where I needed to go. Well actually, You know everything long BEFORE I’m ever ready, don’t You! Thank You for that as well blessed Father.

Turning to 1Corinthians 2:3-5, I read again that the apostle Paul “was unsure… and felt totally inadequate”. The apostle Paul, mind You! Thank You Father.

Throughout this particular book he affirms Your Spirit and Your power as the true source of His message. Father I keep getting lost in what it is that I imagine You would have me do with every aspect of my life.

I get very excited, AGOG if You will, with what I think is Your plan and Your will for me. Then I doubt. Become unsure. Uncertain.

Today Blessed Father, I ask that You would bless and keep me on YOUR path. Take the doubt I create in my own mind and thresh and filter it through Your perfect plan for me. Leave me with what You know I need to accomplish Your will.

I love You. I trust You. And the only thing I want to be unsure about is everything that does not have You at its core. Guide and protect all my heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30) this day as You direct me to serving You as You wish. I love You Father. Amen.

(315 words ~ 8:30 a.m.)

a-m-a-z-i-n-g!

Sunday, August 5, 2012 (7:34 a.m.)

Most Incredible Father God,

Thank You once again! Yesterday I used the word “amazing” more times than I can count. For the most part, it was in regards to a six-year-old girl who seemed to have all her swim lessons come together in one giant, great big “Aha!” moment.

Somehow all the bubble blowing and splashing we have done through the years just ‘clicked’ for her and there she was… this incredible, a-m-a-z-i-n-g swimmer. I saw it in her arm strokes first. So strong and accurate were they that I asked if she had been watching the Olympics. Pause. Invisible question mark over her head, then “No” came the answer.

Next I noticed the sheer playfulness in her eyes. No fear. No reason to be the least bit afraid. She knew that she knew exactly what she was doing. From remembering to blow her bubbles upon surfacing to splashing me dead on in the face as her reward the giggles said it all. She was having an amazingly fun and carefree time in the water.

Her own curiosity literally took her to new heights [and depths]. With only a smattering of coaxing from me, she went from shouting, “Cannonball!” and flinging herself from inside the pool to standing upright on the side and doing the same. Her elation upon reaching the bottom of the pool was infectious to say the least!

Father God, the excited look on her face, her ability and the confidence with which she approached it all are something I am asking You to allow me to remember always. She was ready. It was obvious. I got to be a part of it and it truly was a-m-a-z-i-n-g! Thank You.

I believe You have so much more for me to learn from this experience than just the absolute JOY I feel for having been witness to it. Speak to me this morning about all You would have me take from this event.

There is a verse in Luke (5:26) after Jesus healed a paralyzed man. “Everyone was gripped with great wonder and awe, and they praised God, exclaiming, ‘We have seen amazing things today!’” But it’s Psalm 126 I keep coming back to.

You delivered Your people from captivity and they were filled with laughter and joy. That is EXACTLY what I witnessed yesterday! A little one was completely freed from any fear. She absolutely trusted how her body would respond to the water in every given sense. I want freedom like that Most Holy God! Absolute trust that allows me to say along with Your Jewish exiles, “We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, ‘What amazing things the Lord has done for them. Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What joy!’” (Psalm 126:2-3)

What joy indeed! What a-m-a-z-i-n-g joy! Thank You Father. I love You. Amen.

(489 words ~ 8:34 a.m.)

challenging

Saturday, August 4, 2012 (6:56 a.m.)

Awesome, Awesome God,

Thank You! Yesterday afternoon I used the word “challenged” to describe the lesson I was preparing for. I was absolutely challenged in the most rewarding, satisfying, inspiring and very good way. Thank You Father!

Thank You for this opportunity to thrive in what I love doing most in the world – playing safely with others in and around the water. You helped me take the time to think and prepare ahead for the fun to come. And fun was definitely had. As was safety! Thank You.

Blessed Father God, it was that preparation which motivated us to take care of several long-standing projects around here. We worked well together and completed much. Rather effortlessly at that! Again, this was You. Working in and through us. Thank You God.

Thank You too for another challenge. According to The Message’s version of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, “You’re familiar with the old written law, ‘Love your friend.’ And its unwritten companion, ‘Hate your enemy.’ (Matthew 5:43) I’m challenging that. I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves” (44-45a).

Father I was challenged the other day. Challenged to find a way to be safe and have fun with a wonderful group of people. You reminded me to meet that challenge with the energies of prayer and I did get to once again work out of my true self, my God-created self.

Today I ask again that You would continue Your work in unfolding (blooming, blossoming, thriving) me into the woman You have for me to be.

I love You Father. I thank You. And I ask You to accompany me into every challenge today has to offer. Thank You. Amen.

(323 words ~ 8:17 a.m.)

safety

Friday, August 3, 2012 (6:50 a.m.)

Blessed Father God,

Thank You. Thank You. Thank You! I went to bed last night unable to get to sleep. My thoughts kept coming back to five very little kids and one giant, great big swimming pool.

I was out of ideas. I didn’t know how I would approach today’s lesson of keeping all of them safe in and around the water. I prayed. I asked You. And then I slept. Soundly. Peacefully. Restoratively.

Thank You Father. The first thoughts that came to mind this morning had to do with incorporating their grown-ups into the lesson.

(9:08 a.m.)

And for several of these past hours I have searched the words ‘incorporate’, ‘include’ and ‘integrate’. Rather than spend more time on my own I ask You instead to guide me in my prayer and my approach today. I’m asking for THE verse You would have me cling to this day.

My thoughts are already ahead of me to the late afternoon. Show me in Your Word that what I’m thinking is Your Will and Your plan.

(9:42 a.m.)

And with that prayer I sit filling with Your peace that yes indeed today we will focus on safety. I ask You Father to guide our lessons today. Allow me to instill in these children and their accompanying grown-ups the paramount importance of always being cautious. Show me Lord God how best to encourage ‘simple and fun experimentation in and around the water’ to this particular family today.

It was Micah 4:4 in The Message that ended my search for a verse on safety. The hope of Your temple being firmly fixed on the mountain (v. 1) and nations no longer fighting (3) settles my soul. Reading verse four and then turning to read much the same words by Isaiah (2:2-4) I am so uplifted. “Each man will sit under his own shade tree, each woman in safety will tend her own garden. God-of-the-Angel-Armies says so, and he means what he says.” I trust You Father. I trust You to lead me. To guide me. And to do exactly what You know is best.

Take this day and accomplish through me exactly what You desire. I love You and long to be used by You. Thank You. Amen.

(382 words ~ 10:07 a.m.)