loving God

Friday, August 31, 2018 (9:03 a.m.)

Blessed God,

I love You. Let’s focus on that.

(9:45 a.m.)

Mm. The more I read (Matthew 22:34-40; Deuteronomy 6:1-9) the more I realize how far short I fall in loving You.

Thank You Father for Your love for us that is so much greater than we could ever imagine.

I DO love You, Lord. Continue Your work in refining that love into what You designed it to be. Pure. Unadulterated.

We’re on our way out into the day. Make our love for You paramount. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(105 words ~ 9:57 a.m.)

"see also: God's Power"

Thursday, August 30, 2018 (6:35 a.m.)

Blessed, Holy God,

Good morning. There have already been mistakes. Frustrations. And smiles.

Thank You Father for the smiles! Mm, yes. Thank You for the things I don’t expect. Like mistakes.

Thank You for the opportunity to turn in Your Word looking for guidance when making mistakes and instead finding “MIRACLES (see also God’s Power)”. Oh, yes please. I want very much to read more about Your power.

Yes. Here is a deep, cleansing breath. One that is automatic. Done without thinking. Yet makes me mindful of the many things You are and do.

Father thank You. Thank You for Your power.

Right now I am reading of Your promised power. The power of the Holy Spirit mentioned in Acts 1:8. And again I say thank You.

Finding a section at bible.org, I smile broadly as I hope in what I read. “God’s awesome plan is to transform your life into something beautiful and Christ-like. Sadly, not every believer experiences the power to live this life as God intended. Some are unaware of the treasure of the Holy Spirit living inside them. Others choose to ignore the Spirit’s work in their lives and follow their own desires instead. Living by the Spirit is a choice…”

I know this to be true. I absolutely remember a time over 45 years ago when the Spirit presented me with a choice. I have allows looked back at that moment as a crossroads. “A point at which a crucial decision must be made that will have far-reaching consequences”. And it did!

Here I am, all these years later, joyfully looking to You. Asking for more. Yes Father. More of Your blessings. More of Your grace. Your glory. Your power. Oh yes, Your mighty, loving, miraculous power. The power promised us in Your Word.

Turning to Ephesians 5:15-20, Living by the Spirit’s Power again I ask You Father, make it so. Provide me the power necessary to “let the Holy Spirit fill and control” me. I love You so much.

I trust You. I need You. Show me, as only You can, exactly how to “see also God’s Power”. Mm, yes Blessed God. Use me as You wish. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(383 words ~ 7:18 a.m.)

"Yes, please"

Wednesday, August 29, 2018 (7:09 a.m.)

Most Holy God,

Thank You.

I woke up thinking that I want to say, “Yes, please” to You today. I think of You. Know You are best. And want to align myself to Your will. Yes, please.

Even reading Your Word right now (1 Peter 3) has me saying it automatically. Verse eight, “Finally, all of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds.” Oh, yes please Father. Yes, please!

As I continue reading and hoping in Your Truth, those two words just keep coming. “Yes, please.”

Thank You Father. Verses 10-12 point me directly over to Psalm 34:12-16. Doing so I read even more about Your care for us.

Illustrated Bible Handbook says of “Psalm 34. Protection granted at a time when David acted unwisely stimulated this teaching psalm on the benefits of relationship with God.” Mm, yes, please Father!

A comment in The Life Recovery Bible has me asking You again, yes please. “34:8-14 If we have gone through life trusting in our own judgment, we may find it hard to commit ourself to God and His plan for us. But when we trust the Lord and honor Him, He has promised to supply all our needs. He has the power and the wisdom we need to have victory in our struggles over sin and temptation.”

Mm, yes please Father. Yes, please!

And again I thank You. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for Your love. Thank You for Your care.

As I go out into this day Blessed Father I ask You to guide and direct my heart, my soul, my mind and my strength. Help me represent You well. Loving, caring, thinking and doing Your will. Yes, please. I love You. Thank You. Amen.

(315 words ~ 8:37 a.m.)

MODERATION "See GENTLENESS"

Tuesday, August 28, 2018 (8:28 a.m.)

Anaheim, CA

Awesome God,

Thank You for that. 8:28 on 8/28. Thank You that the oddest things help me smile.

We got to have new adventures yesterday. A morning movie with LOTS of laughter (and WAY too much popcorn). Thank You Father that we still get to learn. Things like moderation.

Funny how we went from talking yesterday about You being The God of More to me needing to learn the fine art of moderation.

Even here, I look up MODERATION and it says, “See GENTLENESS”. I do, and find:

2 Co 10:1

Gal 5:23

Php 4:5

Col 3:12

1 Ti 6:11

1 Pe 3:15

Moderation and gentleness are words I would have never before connected.

"The God of More"

Monday, August 27, 2018 (7:19 a.m.)

Blessed God,

Thank You that You are so good. So faithful.

(8:05 a.m.)

Yesterday I referred to You as “The God of More”. Turning to Your Word to substantiate my thinking, I’m reading in Malachi “The Faith That Waits”.

Mm. Speak to me this morning. Is this an accurate description of one part of Who You are?

(9:25 a.m.)

As I continue reading and studying I truly do believe You to be The God of More. More love. More hope. More forgiveness...

Continue Your work in me Blessed God. I love You so very much. Guide and direct us this day. Thank You for all You are. Bless us. Keep us (Numbers 6:24-26). Forgive us. Love us. Amen.

(128 words ~ 9:28 a.m.)

gratefully here

Sunday, August 26, 2018 (6:57 a.m.)

Good morning Blessed Father,

I am gratefully here.

(7:22 a.m.)

Yes. Gratefully here.

Not knowing where in Your Word to turn this morning, I looked up GRATITUDE in The Life Recovery Bible.

That led me to reading about Mary Magdalene and the “LESSONS FROM HER LIFE: Those who have been forgiven much by God are often the most grateful… The forgiveness can motivate us to live our life for God.” Thank You Father.

Thank You that reading just a little bit ignites my curiosity and I want to know more. The more I read of "forgiveness, new life, the cross, the miracle of the Resurrection and the mighty power of the Holy Spirit" the more hope seems to bubble up inside.

Father, I ask You to guide and direct me into this day. Let me become the woman You have created me to be. Keep up the refining You have been doing in me all these years. That purifying process that continues changing and allowing me to be gratefully here.

I love You Father. Use me exactly as You knows is best. Thank You. Amen.

(194 words ~ 8:27 a.m.)

alone with God

Saturday, August 25, 2018 (6:36 a.m.)

Most Blessed God,

Thank You that I get to be here with You. Yes. Just look at this. I thought “alone with God” and searched it. Finding lots of images and references, here was my “Yes!” moment.

“GOING TO JESUS Gospel Tract #18 Alone With God George C. Clark… Growth in grace requires much prayer, and solitude is often essential to prayer in its most effective form. Jesus recommended drawing aside to pray, knowing that God will openly reward all who come to Him in heartfelt, secret prayer. It is difficult, I know, to find time in these busy days to be alone. Nevertheless, it pays to be alone with God. Alone with God! What a blessed spot! Sweet refuge, where the heart can unfold itself. Alone, alone with God!”

Scripture references in this tract have me reading of Jesus’ arrest (Matthew 26:56). A comment for 26:31-75 in The Life Recovery Bible tells us, “Like Peter, we often go through stages as we give in to our weaknesses. First we claim that we will never fail in a certain way (26:31-35). Then we do what we promised we wouldn’t do (26:56, 69-74). Next we realize that we have failed miserably (26:75). From there we have two options: We can work to overcome our weakness and learn from the experience, as Peter did; or we can wallow in our sins and never grow spiritually, as Judas did (27:5).

I actually have chills because of the Truth of Your Word.

Blessed Father, thank You! “Alone with God! What a blessed spot! Sweet refuge, where the heart can unfold itself. Alone, alone with God!”

Yes! Use me this day, exactly as You know is best. I love You. I want You. I need You. I thank You. Yes! Amen.

(313 words ~ 7:29 a.m.)

"funny"

Friday, August 24, 2018 (12:23 p.m.)

Blessed God,

Of all the many wonderful things You are, “funny” is the one that sticks out most right now. The smile I have on comes and goes. As do the giggles. And the out and out belly laugh.

Father, I love You. And I often times enjoy what I consider Your great sense of humor. Like now…

I didn’t take time with You this morning, even though I had plenty of it. Nope. I thought it would be better for me to continue working on the learning project I’m most recently involved with.

Really? THAT’s my thinking?? Going off into uncharted, fearful territory without first checking in with You? Not even with that whole “I love You God. Gotta go…” approach of which I am so well versed?

You, being You, completely reminded me. AGAIN! You come first. You will not be ignored.

Even with all the promptings. You know? Things all going my way. And then not! Floating high with the feeling of lessons well learned. And then CRASH into another stumbling block.

Thank You Father. Thank You that in the very midst of all this time related frustration, here You are. Popping up in the absolute most unexpected place. 

Learning how to delete documents from a program I do not understand, here’s this from just over a year ago:

Planting good seeds

Friday, July 28, 2017 (7:45 a.m.)

Blessed, Holy God,

I am not behaving lovingly. I have been curt. Surly. Short. Impatient. Unloving. Mm, yes Father, I have not been experiencing the kind of fruit (Galatians 5:22-23) described by the apostle Paul to the churches in southern Galatia.

Forgive me Father. Forgive my inconsistencies. Forgive my willingness to “get tired of doing what is good” (Galatians 6:9a). I confess to ‘getting discouraged and giving up’ (9b).

I whine. Stomp. Curse. Behave very badly. Much like the “foolish [surly, stupid] child” referenced in Proverbs 17:25.

You want better from me. You deserve better from me. It is only by the Holy Spirit’s work in me that I stand a chance for growing as You would have me grow. Please, Lord. Do Your mighty work in me.

You spoke to the prophet Hosea, telling him: “Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will harvest a crop of my love. Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the LORD, that He may come and shower righteousness upon you” (Hosea 10:12).

Mm, yes please Father. I will always reap what I sow (Galatians 6:7c). Surliness begets surliness. Empower and embolden me in planting good seeds. The ones that represent You well. And produce glorious, life giving fruit.

Yes Father. Yes. This I pray in Your Son’s most holy name. Thank You. I love You. Amen.           (246 words ~ 10:47 a.m.)

Thank You Father. Thank You for taking me from upside down with what I consider Your surprisingly delightful and "funny" sense of humor. Continue Your work in changing my attitude. And my learning ability. Thank You Father. I love You. Amen.

(524 words ~ 12:53 p.m.)

wonder working pow'r

Thursday, August 23, 2018 (7:29 a.m.)

Oh Most Dear and Blessed God,

How I thank and praise You Lord!

For most of the morning I was planning to come before You to express the tremendous sense of overwhelm I was feeling. Instead, I am hear actually singing!

♪There is pow’r, pow’r, wonder working pow’r In the blood of the Lamb There is pow’r, pow’r, wonder working pow’r in the precious blood of the Lamb♪

Oh Hallelujah! Praise You Jesus. Thank You for the relief that comes when fear is overpowered.

For many weeks I have been filled with dread. Uncertainty. Fear!

Fear of not being able to learn something new. Fear of failing. Fear of frustration. You name it. I’ve probably been afraid of it.

As a deadline for next week has continued approaching, the fear has ever increased. With every new computer skill learned, another challenge seemed to appear.

Thank You Father for the friends and family You have provided us who have offered encouragement and counsel along the way.

Just as I was planning to pursue a completely different route, an unexpected opportunity presented itself. The joyous relief I am currently experiencing is multiplied because of the Truth of the song that immediately started singing within me.

♪Would you o’er evil a victory win? There’s wonderful pow’r in the blood♪ Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus.

Without a doubt, it is YOU I long to serve. When I can’t sleep at night and the thoughts and feelings start closing in, to Whom do I turn? You! Thank You.

I love the way that reading Your Word helps me smile! Thank You God. The verse associated with this powerful hymn is in Revelation. A book that seems ever over my head.

This morning I read with excitement of satan’s defeat “because of the blood of the Lamb…” (Revelation12:11). Illustrated Bible Handbook does its best in explaining the unexplainable.

A comment in The Life Recovery Bible churns up hope deeply within. “12:1-14 …As much as satan tries to thwart God’s plan for the world’s recovery, he will not be able to. Our personal recovery is an important part of God’s plan for cosmic recovery. If we entrust our life to God and obey Him, He will certainly complete the task of recovery in our life.”

Oh thank You Father. Thank You. Thank You. Thank You. You are good. You are able. It is in You I place my trust. Thank You for this honor and this privilege.

Do all You must in, with, by, through and for me this day that I would truly represent You well. I love You. I need You. I want You. I ask You. Do all this in Jesus’ precious name. Through the wonder working pow’r of His blood. Thank You. Amen.

(471 words ~ 8:16 a.m.)

Psalm 20

Wednesday, August 22, 2018 (6:38 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You. Mm, yes. Thank You for the ability and desire to come to You with genuine, authentic thanks.

(7:24 a.m.)

Yes. Yes. Oh yes. It is my truest desire to spend time with You. I start. Get sidetracked. Come back. Begin again. Mm, yes!

The more I read Your Word, the more I hope. And thank. And praise. I find myself again breathing in deeply. Experiencing such a sense of peace. Thank You Father.

Thank You for the Truth of Your Word. Thank You for having taught me all those many years ago that whenever I am stalled to begin by offering thanks.

Yes. Thank You.

This morning I am reading Psalm 20. The Passion Translation titles it “A Song of Trust”. And again I say, “Mm, yes!”

King David knew to put his trust in You. And he is still teaching Your people to do the same. Thank You Father.

A comment for 20:1-3 in The Life Recovery Bible begins quite succinctly with this truth, “The psalmist counted on God’s present at all times to protect him, especially when his problems were most intense.”

Thank You for his example Dearest God. He wrote this song for the benefit of others. Of which I believe myself to be one. Thank You for the hope that comes as I settle in to the very first verse.

“In times of trouble, may the LORD respond to your cry. May the God of Jacob keep you safe from all harm.” Once again I add, yes Lord. Thank You!

I come to You. Thanking You. Asking You. Be with me this day. Leading, guiding, directing me that I would truly follow. I love You Father. I thank You. Use me as You know is best. Amen.

(309 words ~ 8:44 a.m.)

all my hope is in You

Tuesday, August 21, 2018 (6:52 a.m.)

Again I thank You Father,

Yes. I am experiencing fear. Uncertainty. Dread. Insecurity. The list grows long. And underneath it all is Your Word. Filled with hope.

Mm, yes. Hope. In You!

And now, a phrase from a worship song… ♪All my hope is in You♪ Thank You Father.

Thank You that You are so good. Kind. Loving. You know the plans You have for each of us (Jeremiah 29:11a) and I do not need to be afraid.

I want to be a better communicator God. Across the board. Mm, yes. Look at this definition, “a person who is able to convey or exchange information, news, ideas, especially one who is eloquent or skilled”. Yes please.

I feel in over my head. Sleep was interrupted. And then a sense of genuine peace. A reminder that all the worry and dread over things yet to happen won’t change any outcome. Thank You Father.

Thank You. ♪My life is in You, Lord My strength is in You, Lord My hope is in You, Lord In You, it’s in You… I will praise You with all of my life I will praise You with all of my strength With all of my life, with all of my strength All my hope is in You♪

I am asking You Father; do in, with, by, through and for me all that I am completely unable to do myself. Communicate. Clearly. Concisely.

Oh look! Here’s another smile.

Looking at verse 12 of Jeremiah 29, I read the ending of verse 11. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” And here again is the singing.

♪All my hope is in You♪

Verses 12-13, “In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me.” That’s what I’m doing. Earnestly seeking You. Asking You to help me please Blessed God.

All my hope is in You. I love You. I thank You. I trust You. I need You. I want You. Help me please oh Lord. Thank You. Amen.

(365 words ~ 8:06 a.m.)

strength of Spirit

Monday, August 20, 2018 (5:17 a.m.)

Awesome, Blessed, Holy God,

I am here, even before the sun is shining, asking Your help. I have a project I’m working on. One with a due date that is quickly approaching.

I actually shared the words aloud last night. I’m scared. I don’t want to look foolish. I want to succeed. Not be afraid.

So I’m here. With You. Asking for courage. Strength of spirit. Your Spirit. Mm, yes Father. I am seeking the fellowship of Your Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 13:14).

(7:32 a.m.)

Mm Father, my mind is swirling. I search Your Word. Become excited with hope and expectation. All the while going back and forth between singing and a sense of dread.

How is this possible? There’s a sense of fear. Then faith. A deep exhalation. And hope. Thank You Father. You make us so aware that there is much more to each of us than meets the eye.

Here I have the memory of two grade schoolers playfully clapping, snapping and joyfully keeping time while singing out, ♪Every time I feel the Spirit moving in my heart I will pray Yes, every time I feel the Spirit…♪

Oh yes Blessed Father, that is the strength of Spirit I long to regularly experience. Fellowship. Friendship. Precious communion. The sharing of life.

Mm, this last description from New International Reader’s Version: “May the grace shown by the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. May the love that God has given us be with you. And may the sharing of life brought about by the Holy Spirit be with you all.” Yes. Please!

And now this… 2 Timothy 1:7, “God gave us His Spirit. And the Spirit doesn’t make us weak and fearful. Instead, the Spirit gives us power and love. He helps us control ourselves.” Yes, please. Yes!

I love You Father. I trust You. I need You. I want You. Work in, with, by, through and for me that I would accomplish that which You would have for me. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(347 words ~ 8:15 a.m.)

consciously looking for joy

Sunday, August 19, 2018 (12:34 p.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You for teaching me to consciously look for joy. Yes, Father.

I confess. I was disappointed earlier. Tears were even involved. Plans did NOT work out as expected. I looked for someone to blame. I wanted it to be somebody else’s fault. 

I finally admitted how much I hate being wrong. Then I realized I felt embarrassed for making a mistake.

Through it all I remembered You have called me to joy. Thank You Father.

The first awareness I had in the midst of my frustration was when I noticed a “Y” shaped tree branch. I consciously started looking for something resembling a “J”, finding instead a large light globe that looked like an “O”.

Thank You Father. While I continued even longer in my disappointment and irksomeness, I did keep looking for reminders of things in which to find joy. Finally, there it was. Heart settled. Irritation gone.

First I noticed the peace. Then the smile. And there it was. Joy. Thank You Father. You tell us to forgive. And when we do we are blessed.

Here in the New Living Translation again I am grateful. James 1:2. “Faith and Endurance Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.”

Thank You for reminding me Father. I always have choices. Stay mad. Or be glad. Thank You that earlier I consciously chose to look for joy.

I love You Father. And I thank You. Use me as You know is best. Thank You. Amen.

(267 words ~ 2:54 p.m.)

the smile of morning

Saturday, August 18, 2018 (6:51 a.m.)

(7:03 a.m.)

Holy Father God,

Thank You. Thank You that joy truly does come in the morning (Psalm 30:5d).

Oh! Would You just look at this from The Voice!

“His [God’s] wrath, you see, is fleeting, but His grace lasts a lifetime. The deepest pain may linger through the night, but joy greets the soul with the smile of morning.”

And The Passion Translation. “I’ve learned that His anger lasts for a moment, but His loving favor lasts a lifetime! We may weep through the night, but at daybreak it will turn into shouts of ecstatic joy.”

Shouts of ecstatic joy? Yes please! Sign me up for that. AND the smile of morning.

Oh yes Father. I love You so much. Continue the wonderful work You are doing in, with, by, through and for me. Your loving joy is truly what I long to share with others. Make it so, Oh Lord. Make it so.

Thank You. I love You. Amen!

(172 words ~ 7:37 a.m.)

more learning

Thursday, August 16, 2018 (10:49 a.m.)

Oh Most Dear and Holy God,

Thank You!

Earlier I came before You with my spirit scattered and disheveled. Thank You Father that You took what I had to offer and blessed me in so many different ways.

First there were the lyrics of the love songs. Then a little bit of wait and see. And finally an unexpected learning experience that still excites.

Thank You Father. Yes. Thank You that I do get to keep learning. You are so good. So gracious.

Friday, August 17, 2018 (8:49 a.m.)

Anaheim kitchen

Mm, yes Father. Thank You for even more learning.

I’m here in a very familiar environment. With completely different responsibilities. Thank You for the opportunity, the inclination and the ability to rise to the occasion.

Extremely easy things like student drop off can seem especially daunting when one doesn’t know the rules. Or the area. Thank You for map drawing, discussion and the most sincere desire to understand what was being explained by a five year old.

Thank You for the couple of hiccups that led to some fairly tense moments. And then Your reminder that my current goal in life is to “Be Joyful!”

Yes Father. Those two words have changed a lot of things for me these past two weeks. One of the biggest is hearing our still six year old ask how I can be so nice. Wow Father! That’s You at work.

Thank You. I have more learning to take care of right now. I’m asking You to go before, behind, above, beneath, beside and within me as I undertake learning to better communicate a method used in reducing excess muscle tension.

Father I love You. And yes, I want desperately to become a better communicator. YOU can make that happen for me (2 Corinthians 9:8). I know You can. Thank You Father. I love You. Use me as You wish. Amen.

(327 words ~ 9:24 a.m.)

love song lyrics

Thursday, August 16, 2018 (5:45 a.m.)

Holy God,

The day is off to a questionable start. Things are not currently to my liking. Forgive me I pray. I am being inconvenienced. That’s all.

(6:20 a.m.)

(6:29 a.m.)

Hmm… That’s all?

Blessed God, thank You that I get to bring You all my thoughts. The growls and grumbles.

Yep. I was inconvenienced. Nothing more than minor frustrations. My own plans not working out in my time frame.

Thank You that You are bigger. Better. Thank You for taking what I have to offer and setting it to music again and again.

(6:52 a.m.)

Thank You for loving me so much more than my behavior and emotions warrant. Mm, yes Father. Thank You that Your love surpasses all. The epitome of unconditional.

Fresh air seeping deeply into my being allows me to once again rest in Your presence. Saying over and over, “I love You Father.”

Thank You for the ability and inclination to look up the lyrics to love songs as they come to mind. Thank You for being able to breathe deeply and imagine You singing them to me, as well as me singing them back to You.

First was ♪That’s All♪ and the peace that came as I considered myself truly being loved by You as this song describes. Then ♪After the Lovin’♪ popped in as I thanked You for taking me as I am.

You never cease to amaze me Father. The phrase ♪And thanks for turning me Into a someone♪ brings chills to me as I realize more and more just what Your love for each of us cost. Your Son! Wow.

Thank You Father. Thank You that I get to mope and whine and be surly and still You love me. Minor irritations are nothing to You. You will set me straight every single time I come to You. And I am grateful. So incredibly grateful.

Thank You Father. Thank You for doing all You must in turning me into the someone You would have me be. Yours! Fully, completely, absolutely Yours.

I love You Father. Thank You for the love songs You sing to us regularly. Tune my ears that I will hear them clearly. Readily.

I love You. I thank You. I need You. I want You. Use me I pray, to Your good and to Your glory. Thank You. Amen.

(403 words ~ 7:15 a.m.)

"right and just and fair"

Wednesday, August 15, 2018 (7:29 a.m.)

Mm, Blessed God,

Thank You Father.

I left here yesterday with the desire of of acquiring “a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair” (Illustrated Bible Handbook The purpose of Proverbs: 1:1-7).

Oh yes most Blessed God, this section in The Message falls under the headings, “Wise Says of Solomon A Manual for Living”. Thank You Father for providing us Your manual for living.

Oh Your goodness, God! The more I read, the more I want. The Life Recovery Bible RECOVERY THEMES: The Importance of Common Sense, The Power of Priorities, The Role of Boundaries, Building Healthy Relationships.

You are so incredibly good, Father. This particular book of Your Word was written “To offer God-given wisdom for protection against dysfunctional behaviors and ungodly practices” (THE BOTTOM LINE TLRB).

And now this from The Message, “These are the wise sayings of Solomon, David’s son, Israel’s king - Written down so we’ll know how to live well and right, to understand what life means and where it’s going; A manual for living, for learning what’s right and just and fair” (vs. 1-3).

As this chapter continues pointing to the importance of wisdom, it ends with a promise. “Start with GOD - the first step in learning is bowing down to GOD; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning (v. 7)... First pay attention to me, and then relax. Now you can take it easy - you’re in good hands” (33).

Oh yes Blessed God. Continue Your work in developing our ability to “acquire a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair.”

Yes. Yes. Oh yes! Bless us. Keep us. Make Your face shine on us and be gracious to us; turn Your face toward us and give us Your peace (Numbers 6:24-26) that we would truly come to do what is right and just and fair.

Thank You Father. We love You. We want You. We need You. And we ask You (Matthew 7:7) "make it so Blessed God". In Your Son’s most holy name. Thank You. I love You. Amen

(363 words ~ 9:06 a.m.)

learning

Tuesday, August 14, 2018 (6:23 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You for learning Father. Oh, yes. Yes. Yes! Thank You for the ability and desire to learn.

(7:17 a.m.)

Sitting. Reading. Hoping. Absorbing. Head nodding. Learning. Wanting so much not to be a fool!

Proverbs 1:7, “Start with GOD - the first step in learning is bowing down to GOD; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning” (The Message).

Mm. Start with GOD. The Living Bible says, “How does a man become wise? The first step is to trust and reverence the Lord! Only fools refuse to be taught.”

Mm, yes Father. Continue Your work in me. The more I become aware of other things, it’s learning to trust and reverence You that is absolutely paramount.

Reading back to verses two and three, “The purpose of these proverbs is to teach people wisdom and discipline, and to help them understand wise sayings. Through these proverbs, people will receive instruction in discipline, good conduct, and doing what is right, just, and fair.”

(12:23 p.m.)

So I didn’t finish this earlier and now I am plagued by a false sense of failure. The key word here being false.

A method I am attempting to learn didn’t turn out as I had hoped. Now I am sitting on a mound of unpleasant feelings. Thank You Father that I can bring even this to You.

Going back up to what I had wanted to finish with You before, I quote this from Illustrated Bible Handbook. “Chapters 1-9. In Praise of Wisdom The purpose of Proverbs: 1:1-7… to help the reader ‘acquire a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair’ v. 3”.

Oh yes Father. A disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair.

good and loving

Monday, August 13, 2018 (6:04 a.m.)

Blessed, Holy God,

I pouted yesterday. Pure and simple. Things weren’t to my liking and I just gave up. Withdrew. Mumbled. Grumbled. Groused.

Oh. Now here’s the kicker. Looking up the meanings to those words, I found the one on which I worked at helping someone overcome that very morning. Complaining.

Forgive me Father. Once again I fell right back into my old habits.

(6:35 a.m.)

Thank You Blessed God. I sit here reading Your Word. Nodding my head. Knowing You to be good and loving.

There was very little of me that appeared good and loving last night. Nope. I stuck to my guns. Closed off. Protected and fed my “right” to feel out of sorts.

Again I say, “Forgive me Father.” I didn’t come to You first. Or second. I did not reverence nor esteem Your holiness. Forgive me Father.

(7:16 a.m.)

(7:32 a.m.)

I keep reading. Learning. And thanking You.

Yes, Father. Thank You. I continue coming back to Deuteronomy. And smiling. There is so much hope to be found when we look to You.

Thank You Father. As I read descriptions of this power packed book of history, again I smile with hopefulness. “Deuteronomy is a handbook for rebuilders” (The Life Recovery Bible).

And this from Distinctives of Deuteronomy in Illustrated Bible Handbook, “Here we see a strong emphasis on personal relationship, as Israel is urged to love God, to hear Him when He speaks, and to keep or do His words.”

I did NOT do these things last night. Thank You that today is a brand new day and You are always good and loving.

Work in, with, by, through and for me that I would truly esteem and revere Your holiness this day. You deserve so very much more than the surliness with which I ignored You yesterday.

Thank You for Your good and loving ways. Ways that lead me to Your Word. Your Truth. And the hope we have in You. 

Use me Father. Exactly as You know is best. Thank You God. I love You. Amen.

(360 words ~ 8:01 a.m.)

goodness and mercy

Sunday, August 12, 2018 (6:19 a.m.)

Holy, Holy God,

Thank You. Thank You. Thank You. Several times I woke up during my sleep. Each was greeted with either a Bible Truth or a song of praise. Thank You Father.

Psalm 23:6 is getting the bulk of my attention this morning. The various translations. So many different ways of saying the same Truth.

“Surely [truly, certainly, doubtless, yes, I know, only, indeed, for sure, I am sure]…” All that for the very first word. Thank You Father.

Thank You that as I read the many variations of this one verse I am experiencing an entirely different way of looking at it this morning. Having learned it as, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” I am amazed at what I have missed through the years.

The Message tells us, “Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life.” Goodness and mercy translate to Your beauty and love? I’ve never considered that before.

Nor have I ever pondered them chasing after me. Following? Yes. Chasing after, never.

Finishing the verse [as well as the chapter] again I have an unfamiliar take. “I’m back home in the house of GOD for the rest of my life” feels quite different than “I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”

Oh Blessed Father, for some reason the idea of being ‘back home in Your house for the rest of my life’ seems more appealing to me than “dwell[ing] in the house of the LORD forever.” Thank You for new ways to look at Your absolute, unchanging Truth.

And here is an even deeper thought. The Passion Translation. And not just verse 6. Oh Blessed God, thank You. Thank You. Thank You for the life giving, life saving Truth of Your Word.

Decades ago I was introduced to The Living Bible’s paraphrasing of verse one. “Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need!” TRUTH! Absolute, amazing Truth!

And here again The Passion Translation (Psalm 23:1-6). “The Good Shepherd David’s poetic praise to God The Lord is my best friend and my shepherd. I always have more than enough… So why would I fear the future? For Your goodness and love pursue me all the days of my life. Then afterward, when my life is through, I’ll return to Your glorious presence to be forever with You!”

Mm. Father. Thank You. Praise You. Use me as You know is best. Sharing Your goodness and mercy with those I encounter. I love You. I need You. I want You. I ask You. Thank You. Amen.

(456 words ~ 8:04 a.m.)

God's unfailing love

Saturday, August 11, 2018 (6:36 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You for Your love.

(6:58 a.m.)

Mm, yes. Thank You for Your unfailing love (Psalm 147:11; New Living Translation).

I like when I come here with You, not having a clue where in Your Word we will go. A thought comes to mind and oftentimes leads me to verses I’ve never considered before. Like this morning.

Just look at the treasure found in these translations:

“The LORD is pleased with [takes pleasure in] those who respect [fear] Him [Prov. 1:7], with those who trust [wait for; hope in] His love [loyalty]” (Expanded Bible).

“But His joy is in those who reverence Him, those who expect Him to be loving and kind” (The Living Bible).

Your love never fails. Even know. Those four words led me to search the Jesus Culture worship song with those same words. ♪Your love never fails♪ Thank You Father. It’s such a huge Truth I can hardly wrap my mind around it.

Reaching up into verse ten, and then all the way to verse one and back I sit here amazed at the thought You would be delighted in me. The strength of a horse doesn’t impress You.

“Rather, the LORD’s delight is in those who honor Him, those who put their hope in His unfailing love.”

It’s time for me to get started with this day, Lord. Please go before, behind, above, below, beside and within me. I love You Father. I thank You. My hope and trust are in You. Work in, with, by, through and for me as You know is best. Thank You. Praise You. Amen.

(279 words ~ 7:37 a.m.)

about kindness

Friday, August 10, 2018 (7:11 a.m.)

Oh Most Holy God,

There’s so much meanness in the world.

(8:00 a.m.)

Thank You that Your Word has so much to say about kindness.

Father, I love You. Thank You for Your love. And Your kindness. Thank You for Your mercy. The Holy Spirit. Your generosity. Jesus Christ, our Savior. Your justifying grace. And the hope of eternal life (Titus 3:4-7).

Oh yes Most Holy God, teach us to live as Your Word repeatedly tells us. Here from Colossians 3:12, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

Mm, yes Father. Please.

I have tears as Jason Mraz music plays in the background while I’m reading from Illustrated Bible Handbook. “COLOSSIANS Chapter 3. Christ, The Pattern for a Fulfilling Life The Glory of Love; 3:5-14.”

Use us Father. “What is a truly spiritual life like? It is simply a daily walk in which we forgive others as the Lord forgave us; in which we are compassionate, kind, humble, gentle and patient (12-14). It is simply living with others the kind of life that Jesus lived when He walked on earth, and thus to reveal the loving and holy character of our God. Fulfillment and spiritual reality are not found in the exciting and the spectacular. What counts with God is a life of love lived in the real world. This is the life that Jesus yearns to live within us.

9:56 a.m.)

Oh yes Most Blessed God. Live in, with, by, through and for us that we would truly become the people You created us to be.

I love You Father. Continue Your teaching about kindness. Thank You. Amen.

(298 words ~ 9:58 a.m.)

"SEE ALSO"

Thursday, August 9, 2018 (6:25 a.m.)

Most Holy God,

Thank You.

(6:55 a.m.)

Mm, yes. Thank You.

My first thought of thanks was “for fun”. Then I wondered if that was even biblical.

I know we are to ♪Rejoice in the Lord always And again I say, “Rejoice”♪ (Philippians 4:4). But does that equate to having fun? Evidently it does.

Thank You Father. Thank You for what Your Word has to say about having fun.

Life Recovery TOPICAL INDEX says, “FUN (see enjoyment)”. When I follow the trail I read, “ENJOYMENT (see also Happiness, Joy)”. Just look at how it all circles around to what You and I have been talking about for over a week now. Joy.

As I “see also Happiness” and read “HAPPINESS see also Contentment, Enjoyment, Joy)” I wonder. What would it actually be like if I could truly “SEE ALSO…” these things?

This I ask of You today Most Blessed God. Empower me in seeking not only fun, enjoyment, happiness, joy and contentment, but most importantly You and Your loving mercy and grace.

Yes! A HUGE sigh of contentment as I follow my heart and thoughts all the way back over to Matthew 6:33. Singing ♪Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, And all these things shall be added unto you - Allelu, alleluia!♪

Yes Most Holy God and Father, this morning as I “see also” all the other important things of which You would have me be aware, even here in The Celebration Hymnal I smile broadly. Subsections where the two joyful hymns sung above are found are: “WALKING WITH GOD Provision and Deliverance” and “WALKING WITH GOD Peace and Joy”.

A Serenity Prayer Devotional for Matthew 6:25-34 in The Life Recovery Bible spells this out as well. “Each day there is something to find joy in, and there is strength promised for the troubles of that day.” Yep. Walking with You, I find provision and deliverance, as well as peace and joy. Thank You Father.

You have my back! My front. My heart, soul, mind and strength. Use me as You absolutely know is best. I love You. I need You. I want You. I praise and worship You. Thank You Father. Use me well I pray. Thank You. Amen.

(387 words ~ 8:05 a.m.)

accepting joy

Wednesday, August 8, 2018 (8:34 a.m.)

Most Holy God,

Thank You! A detailed dream at 4 a.m. reminded me of the importance of acceptance. And then joy. As I considered these two powerful words, I combined them yielding “accepting joy”.

Mm, yes please. Yes Father, I long to accept the joy You provide for us. Taking even the simplicity of all the eights I noticed above: 8 something on 8/8/18, I smiled.

Another, “Mm, yes please”! A bigger smile as I consider the oft used movie [“Up”] quote, “Adventure is out there”. Changing it quite simply to, “JOY is out there.”

It is. Oh, how I long to experience Your joy Blessed Father. Even as I did this morning at 4 a.m.

Awakening from a fairly dreadful dream, filled with suspense and horror. As I lie there thinking of all the twists and turns it had taken, I came to realize all I had to do was accept it as it was and move on.

Thank You Father. Thank You. I get to practice accepting joy. Yes. I have choices. Continue in my habit? Or change what I can.

Today I choose change. Because of Your love. Your Word. Your presence. I can release grudges. Or hold them tightly. Thank You that I actually feel lighter as I loosen my grip on perceived injustices.

You, Dear God, are good and holy. And I thank You for YOUR way.

(10:00 a.m.)

The Message Bible has one passage including the two words; accepting and joy. Ecclesiastes 5:18-20, “[Make the Most of What God Gives] After looking at the way things are on this earth, here’s what I’ve decided is the best way to live: Tale care of yourself, have a good time, and make the most of whatever job you have for as long as God gives you life. And that’s about it. That’s the human lot. Yes, we should make the most of what God gives, both the bounty and the capacity to enjoy it, accepting what’s given and delighting in the work. It’s God gift! God deals out joy in the present, the now. It’s useless to brood over how long we might live.”

Huge sigh. Deep breath. Release in tension. Joy. Yes. A genuine sense of joy. Thank You Father.

This comment in The Life Recovery Bible, “5:18-20 … Celebrate the beauty of God’s gift of life and its simple pleasures. Being healthy and content with what we have are gifts from God… We need to take the time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures to gain strength for the battles we face.”

Yes please. This is my prayer Most Holy God, continue Your work in teaching me the importance of recognizing and accepting joy. Thank You Father. I love You. Use me as You know is best. Thank You. Amen.

(479 words ~ 10: 14 a.m.)

God's call to joy

Sunday, August 5, 2018 (6:44 a.m.)

Blessed God,

Thank You for Your love. Your call to joy.

(7:57 a.m.)

Mm, yes. Your call to joy. Thank You Father.

Thank You for the places I can turn to learn more of Your call to joy.

This, from gotquestions.org/joy-Christian.html: “The first thing is to realize that joy is a gift from God… both a gift of God as well as a response to the gifts of God. Joy comes when we are aware of God’s grace and relish His favor.”

Oh yes Most Blessed God, how I ask You to keep working in, with, by, through and for me. The more I read the more I want You to produce in me the true fruit of Your Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23a).

(8:16 a.m.)

Yes, yes Dearest God!

The more I read and study, the more desperate I am to live the life to which I am called by You.

Before I rush out into what appears to be a seemingly fun-filled day with family and friends I am asking You to go ahead, behind, above, beneath, beside and completely within me.

Looking deeply into Your Word, Psalm 19:8 says so much. “The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commandments of the LORD are clear, giving insight to life” (New Living Translation). Yes please!

And this version from The Message. “The revelation of GOD is whole and pulls our lives together. The signposts of GOD are clear and point out the right road. The life-maps of GOD are right, showing the way to joy. The directions of GOD are plain and easy on the eyes. GOD’s reputation is twenty-four-carat gold, with a lifetime guarantee. The decisions of GOD are accurate down to the nth degree” (vs. 7-9).

Holiest, Most Awesome God, it is absolutely in You I trust. Do all You must in making me into the woman You created me to be. Obedient to You. And joyful.

I love You. Use me this day as only You know is best. Thank You, Father. I love You. Amen.

(369 words ~ 8:31 a.m.)

"one focus only"

Saturday, August 4, 2018 (6:31 a.m.)

Holy God,

Good morning.

It’s scheduled to be a very busy day. I turn to You, after the fact. Asking, seeking, knocking (Matthew 7:7) in absolute need of Your presence.

Thank You Father. Thank You that even when I may have over committed myself, I can still turn to You and find peace.

You never cease to amaze me. I sit. Wondering. Considering all You are. And do. I find myself so very grateful.

Just in reading various chapter titles for Colossians 3:1-4, my heart smiles with the hope of power and strength:

Chapter 3. Christ, the Pattern for a Fulfilling Life

One Focus Only; 3:1-4.

Living the New Life

He Is Your Life

One with Christ in Glory

Live a new life by the power of the risen Christ

Your New Life

The titles continue igniting excitement within. Stopping at verse two, I find myself fully embracing The Living Bible’s rendering. “Let heaven fill your thoughts; don’t spend your time worrying about things down here.”

Yes Father. Let this truly be my approach to this very full day.

I love You so much. I love Your Word. I love Your promises. These things I ask in Your Son’s most holy name. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(221 words ~ 7:32 a.m.)

"all things new"

Friday, August 3, 2018 (5:48 a.m.)

Blessed, Holy God,

Thank You. We are home again. Safe from our travels. Refreshed. Renewed. And ready to 

(6:56 a.m.)

What a great thought to interrupt. Ready to… what?

I left here searching “all things new”. Reading Matthew 19:28; 2 Corinthian 5:17 and Revelation 21:5. Now I ask You to guide my thinking and study.

And here is my heartfelt, “Hallelujah!” Thank You Father. Thank You Jesus.

Revelation 21:5, “And the One sitting on the throne said, ‘Look, I am making all things new!’ And then He said to me, ‘Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.’”

How blessed are we to be able to have our hope and trust in You. Thank You that we get to read of Your promises of healing.

The Life Recovery Bible Serenity Prayer Devotional for REVELATION 21:3-6 ends with this heartening Truth, “There is hope for all of us, no matter how terrible our past or the problems we face today. Someday all our defects will be gone; all things will be made new; the thirst of our soul will be quenched by the Water of Life.”

How poetic is that! Having just returned from our visit to the Land of Enchantment and learning of the political disputes connected to water rights and usage truly stirs my thinking. Imagine our souls actually being “quenched by the Water of Life”. Mm!

Continuing to read, I come to “22:1-5 The book of Revelation climaxes here, portraying the eternal state as a new and better Garden of Eden. God will re-create His broken creation.” Just think… all things made new!

“And the angel showed me a pure river with the water of life, clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb coursing down the center of the main street. On each side of the river grew a tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, with a fresh crop each month. The leaves were used for medicine to heal the nations” (Revelation 22:1-2).

Newness. Healing. “A pure river with the water of life.” Yes. Please Father. We need You to do in, with, by, through and for us ALL we are unable to do ourselves.

Thank You Father. We love You. Use us as You know is best. Amen.

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

with confidence and joy

Thursday, August 2, 2018 (6:15 a.m. MDT)

Albuquerque, NM

Blessed, Holy God,

Praise You. Honor You. Look to You.

(7:23 a.m. MDT)

Study You. And Your Word.

This morning I am again seeking to learn more about being joyful. In You.

Searching Your Word. Scouring Your passages. Stopping at the subheading of Psalm 40. “[A Joyful Salvation]” (The Passion Translation). Oh yes Father! How I long to experience a joyful salvation!

Comments for this psalm in The Life Recovery Bible speak to Your timing. Your help. Rescue from destruction and despair.

And this… “He [God] will also bring stability  to our life so we can move forward again with confidence and joy. If we are to experience God’s best for our life (which far exceeds anything we can imagine), we need to rely on Him alone and avoid entanglements with those who could lead us away from God and His plan for us.”

Yes! Oh yes Dearest Lord. Continue Your work in and for me. I resemble the verses of this psalm in so many ways.

“I waited patiently for the LORD to help me, and He turned to me and heard my cry (v. 1)… As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord is thinking about me right now. You are my helper and my savior. Do not delay, O my God” (17).

I look to You Blessed God. And I am absolutely filled with YOUR confidence and joy. Thank You for being such a good and loving, perfect Father.

How we need You. Want You. Thank You. Praise You. Be in and with us this day most Joyous, Blessed God. Thank You. We love You. Amen.

(288 words ~ 7:53 a.m. MDT)