Thou art good, and doest good; teach me Thy statutes.
Psalm 119:68
Dear Father, help me to be open to Your purpose for my life and please give me the desire to fulfill that purpose – starting today. Amen.
<><
Psalm 119
X Teth
65 Do good to your servant
according to your word, O LORD.
66 Teach me knowledge and good judgment,
for I believe in your commands.
67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I obey your word.
68 You are good, and what you do is good;
teach me your decrees.
69 Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies,
I keep your precepts with all my heart.
70 Their hearts are callous and unfeeling,
but I delight in your law.
71 It was good for me to be afflicted
so that I might learn your decrees.
72 The law from your mouth is more precious to me
than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Power of Words
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
James 3:17
Dear Lord, help me to be courteous and loving towards others today. Amen.
<><
This whole chapter is a lovely reminder – me especially – lately God is revealing all the times I have said something that just didn’t come out the way I intended. And the last thing I want to do is offend my family, friends or spectators. I have become focused on developing relationships, and not balancing the rest of my life very well. Granted, this is something that I have always struggled with. I am “task oriented” which is why projects are usually accomplished quickly, because I can narrow my sights to just this task, the daily stuff gets pushed aside to be dealt with later. During this process I see my boys vying for my attention, and as a result I am irritated by them because they interrupt a fascinating conversation, Bible study, prayer time, or house work, or I get upset that the task is not progressing on schedule. [(God’s timing is perfect, and I know this, I have seen that God is faithful, and the results are so much better if I just wait on Him!!) OK – that is another Morning Truth!!]
Abba, You are the One I turn to, the One I trust, please help me to build and cultivate my relationship with those beautiful boys You have blessed me with. God I know that I have not been doing a very good job of loving them well, treating them like You treat me, or speaking with them in love. I have stumbled and fallen short of building them up. God, help me and teach me to balance this life better, I want to bring You honor and glory with everything I say and do. In Jesus Holy Name. Amen.
James 3
Taming the Tongue
1Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.
3When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
7All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, 8but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. 10Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 11Can both fresh water and salt[a] water flow from the same spring? 12My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
Two Kinds of Wisdom
13Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
James 3:17
Dear Lord, help me to be courteous and loving towards others today. Amen.
<><
This whole chapter is a lovely reminder – me especially – lately God is revealing all the times I have said something that just didn’t come out the way I intended. And the last thing I want to do is offend my family, friends or spectators. I have become focused on developing relationships, and not balancing the rest of my life very well. Granted, this is something that I have always struggled with. I am “task oriented” which is why projects are usually accomplished quickly, because I can narrow my sights to just this task, the daily stuff gets pushed aside to be dealt with later. During this process I see my boys vying for my attention, and as a result I am irritated by them because they interrupt a fascinating conversation, Bible study, prayer time, or house work, or I get upset that the task is not progressing on schedule. [(God’s timing is perfect, and I know this, I have seen that God is faithful, and the results are so much better if I just wait on Him!!) OK – that is another Morning Truth!!]
Abba, You are the One I turn to, the One I trust, please help me to build and cultivate my relationship with those beautiful boys You have blessed me with. God I know that I have not been doing a very good job of loving them well, treating them like You treat me, or speaking with them in love. I have stumbled and fallen short of building them up. God, help me and teach me to balance this life better, I want to bring You honor and glory with everything I say and do. In Jesus Holy Name. Amen.
James 3
Taming the Tongue
1Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.
3When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
7All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, 8but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. 10Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 11Can both fresh water and salt[a] water flow from the same spring? 12My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
Two Kinds of Wisdom
13Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
Love on another
Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us.
Ephesians 5:1-2
Lord, make me aware of someone today who could use my encouragement or helping hand. Help me to take the time to be Your messenger. Amen.
<><
O Father, Your Ways are just so Amazing!!! Lord, You touch my heart so effortlessly and I am in Awe of You and Your Majesty!! Abba, please continue to keep me alert to those who are in need!! God, help me to heed Your call, listen to Your voice, feel Your presence, and realize when the Holy Spirit wants me to move please give me the courage to MOVE!! In Your Son’s Holy and Precious Name. Amen.
Ephesians 5:1-2
Lord, make me aware of someone today who could use my encouragement or helping hand. Help me to take the time to be Your messenger. Amen.
<><
O Father, Your Ways are just so Amazing!!! Lord, You touch my heart so effortlessly and I am in Awe of You and Your Majesty!! Abba, please continue to keep me alert to those who are in need!! God, help me to heed Your call, listen to Your voice, feel Your presence, and realize when the Holy Spirit wants me to move please give me the courage to MOVE!! In Your Son’s Holy and Precious Name. Amen.
Refuge
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.
Psalm 46: 1-2
Lord, we know that You are always with us and that we don’t have to be afraid. Help us to keep our eyes on You. Amen.
<><
O Heavenly Father, You are so Amazing and Loving. Thank You for loving me so well and so much!! You sustain me in so many ways, and I am grateful for all that You do. Abba, my Father, thank You for being there for me this morning and helping me through the last few days. I can not do anything good or right without You!! God I do not want to do anything without You!! Lord, please continue to provide opportunities to further Your kingdom and bring You honor and glory!!! In Your Son’s Precious and Holy Name!! Amen!
Psalm 46: 1-2
Lord, we know that You are always with us and that we don’t have to be afraid. Help us to keep our eyes on You. Amen.
<><
O Heavenly Father, You are so Amazing and Loving. Thank You for loving me so well and so much!! You sustain me in so many ways, and I am grateful for all that You do. Abba, my Father, thank You for being there for me this morning and helping me through the last few days. I can not do anything good or right without You!! God I do not want to do anything without You!! Lord, please continue to provide opportunities to further Your kingdom and bring You honor and glory!!! In Your Son’s Precious and Holy Name!! Amen!
Spiritual Blessings
Praise ye the Lord. Praise the Lord, O my soul. While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God.
Psalm 146: 1-2
When morning gilds the skies, My heart awakening cries, May Jesus Christ be praised. – Tr. Edward Caswall
<><
OK – I am suggesting that we dive into the word “praise”. There are 351 times the word praise is used in the NIV. I am going to challenge you to find the one that you enjoy the most. Then write it on a card and place it somewhere around you so that you may have it as a constant reminder to “Praise God” in rain or shine.
I have to write it several times, and place it in several places!!
Deuteronomy 10
Fear the LORD
12 And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, 13 and to observe the LORD's commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?
14 To the LORD your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. 15 Yet the LORD set his affection on your forefathers and loved them, and he chose you, their descendants, above all the nations, as it is today. 16 Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and do not be stiff-necked any longer. 17 For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. 18 He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the alien, giving him food and clothing. 19 And you are to love those who are aliens, for you yourselves were aliens in Egypt. 20 Fear the LORD your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name. 21 He is your praise; he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes. 22 Your forefathers who went down into Egypt were seventy in all, and now the LORD your God has made you as numerous as the stars in the sky.
2 Samuel 22
47 "The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock!
Exalted be God, the Rock, my Savior!
Ephesians 1
Spiritual Blessings in Christ
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5he[c] predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— 6to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9And he[d] made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ.
11In him we were also chosen,[e] having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, 12in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. 13And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory.
Psalm 146: 1-2
When morning gilds the skies, My heart awakening cries, May Jesus Christ be praised. – Tr. Edward Caswall
<><
OK – I am suggesting that we dive into the word “praise”. There are 351 times the word praise is used in the NIV. I am going to challenge you to find the one that you enjoy the most. Then write it on a card and place it somewhere around you so that you may have it as a constant reminder to “Praise God” in rain or shine.
I have to write it several times, and place it in several places!!
Deuteronomy 10
Fear the LORD
12 And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, 13 and to observe the LORD's commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?
14 To the LORD your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. 15 Yet the LORD set his affection on your forefathers and loved them, and he chose you, their descendants, above all the nations, as it is today. 16 Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and do not be stiff-necked any longer. 17 For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. 18 He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the alien, giving him food and clothing. 19 And you are to love those who are aliens, for you yourselves were aliens in Egypt. 20 Fear the LORD your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name. 21 He is your praise; he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes. 22 Your forefathers who went down into Egypt were seventy in all, and now the LORD your God has made you as numerous as the stars in the sky.
2 Samuel 22
47 "The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock!
Exalted be God, the Rock, my Savior!
Ephesians 1
Spiritual Blessings in Christ
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5he[c] predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— 6to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9And he[d] made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ.
11In him we were also chosen,[e] having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, 12in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. 13And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory.
Kindness
Blessed be the Lord: for He hath shown me His marvelous kindness.
Psalm 31:21
Lord, enlighten me with Your goodness, so that in the secrets of my heart, no dark desires may abide. Amen.
<><.
Psalm 31 - NIV
21 Praise be to the LORD,
for he showed his wonderful love to me
when I was in a besieged city.
Psalm 31 - NASB
21(A)Blessed be the LORD,
For He has made (B)marvelous His lovingkindness to me in a besieged (C)city.
Psalm 31 – Amplified
21Blessed be the Lord! For He has shown me His marvelous loving favor when I was beset as in a besieged city.
Oh Father, help me show the wonderful love to others, as You have shown me. God I am imperfect but I want others to know You – and whatever way I can help further Your kingdom, please Lord, let me help. In Jesus Holy Name. Amen.
Psalm 31:21
Lord, enlighten me with Your goodness, so that in the secrets of my heart, no dark desires may abide. Amen.
<><.
Psalm 31 - NIV
21 Praise be to the LORD,
for he showed his wonderful love to me
when I was in a besieged city.
Psalm 31 - NASB
21(A)Blessed be the LORD,
For He has made (B)marvelous His lovingkindness to me in a besieged (C)city.
Psalm 31 – Amplified
21Blessed be the Lord! For He has shown me His marvelous loving favor when I was beset as in a besieged city.
Oh Father, help me show the wonderful love to others, as You have shown me. God I am imperfect but I want others to know You – and whatever way I can help further Your kingdom, please Lord, let me help. In Jesus Holy Name. Amen.
Mercy
Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me and answer me.
Psalm 27:7
Lord, I don’t pray for tranquility, or that my problems may cease; I pray that Your Spirit and love would give me the strength to abide in You during adversity. Amen.
<><
How true is this? I remember being in the midst of a storm, crying out to God, and I wasn’t asking for the storm to stop – I was crying out for help to get through the storm. Then as I felt the Holy Spirit moving within me, and as I grew stronger, I was able to ask for the tools to further His kingdom. What was the last storm you were in – maybe you are in it right now – what are you praying for? He is my Refuge, my Rock, and my Savior!! I don’t need anything else; I would not want anything that does not come of Him.
Psalm 27:7
Lord, I don’t pray for tranquility, or that my problems may cease; I pray that Your Spirit and love would give me the strength to abide in You during adversity. Amen.
<><
How true is this? I remember being in the midst of a storm, crying out to God, and I wasn’t asking for the storm to stop – I was crying out for help to get through the storm. Then as I felt the Holy Spirit moving within me, and as I grew stronger, I was able to ask for the tools to further His kingdom. What was the last storm you were in – maybe you are in it right now – what are you praying for? He is my Refuge, my Rock, and my Savior!! I don’t need anything else; I would not want anything that does not come of Him.
Forgiveness
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Psalm 32:1
Thank You for giving me relief that my sins are forgiven and remembered no more. Amen.
<><
There are 2 very distinct points God has laid on my heart – I hope this makes sense!
I remember taking a long time to forgive those who have hurt me the deepest. Those wounds have taken a lot to heal – and some God and I are still dealing with – but at least they are dressed and under proper medical supervision. Sometimes people don’t even realize that they have hurt another, and if they do realize it may not register how deeply the injury may be. From a broken perspective, I know how angry, vengeful and resentful I was. And it took a lot to not guard myself from risk of another injury when I had to deal with that individual. I have to pray that my heart would not grow cold, and to forget the transgression and begin with a fresh slate. My mind likes to keep bringing up the past, especially when I am in an emotional state. Having an open like with God, resting in His wisdom, has helped me get through some rough situations.
I know that I probably hurt my kids more than anyone else on the planet. This is sad, because I love them more than anyone else on the planet. God has revealed a lot to me lately – and it is not necessarily a pretty picture. How often do we forgive and forget our friend’s transgressions, and not our spouses or children? God knows that we have some work to do – so I have invited Him in to help me to work these out His way!
Nothing like diving right into a heart issue! Try to be honest with yourself.
Psalm 32:1
Thank You for giving me relief that my sins are forgiven and remembered no more. Amen.
<><
There are 2 very distinct points God has laid on my heart – I hope this makes sense!
I remember taking a long time to forgive those who have hurt me the deepest. Those wounds have taken a lot to heal – and some God and I are still dealing with – but at least they are dressed and under proper medical supervision. Sometimes people don’t even realize that they have hurt another, and if they do realize it may not register how deeply the injury may be. From a broken perspective, I know how angry, vengeful and resentful I was. And it took a lot to not guard myself from risk of another injury when I had to deal with that individual. I have to pray that my heart would not grow cold, and to forget the transgression and begin with a fresh slate. My mind likes to keep bringing up the past, especially when I am in an emotional state. Having an open like with God, resting in His wisdom, has helped me get through some rough situations.
I know that I probably hurt my kids more than anyone else on the planet. This is sad, because I love them more than anyone else on the planet. God has revealed a lot to me lately – and it is not necessarily a pretty picture. How often do we forgive and forget our friend’s transgressions, and not our spouses or children? God knows that we have some work to do – so I have invited Him in to help me to work these out His way!
Nothing like diving right into a heart issue! Try to be honest with yourself.
God's Presence
The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and His ears are open unto their cry.
Psalm 34:15
How comforting it is, Father, to know that You watch over me. May I live confidently in a sense of Your presence. Amen.
<><
You read how Moses would not budge and inch without God, if He was not coming, then Moses wasn’t going. I struggle with keeping my eyes, mind, heart fixed on God through out my day. I am so human, I am easily distracted with the fast paced world around me, the noise just gets louder and louder, and I feel like I am in a whirl pool getting twisted around going down the drain. I only cry to God, when I think of it, and then He pulls me out of the vortex and plants me on a rock to dry off and catch my breath. Only to do it again, what a vicious cycle I seem to get myself into. Do you think God gets tired of saving me? I know that He doesn’t but you would think that I would recognize the writing on the wall by now.
Little by little – I know that God is placing my priorities on my heart – I know that He is having me re-evaluate our family activities. This summer is going to be a great time for us to renew our family bonds and dry off and catch our breath. What does God have you evaluating?
Psalm 34:15
How comforting it is, Father, to know that You watch over me. May I live confidently in a sense of Your presence. Amen.
<><
You read how Moses would not budge and inch without God, if He was not coming, then Moses wasn’t going. I struggle with keeping my eyes, mind, heart fixed on God through out my day. I am so human, I am easily distracted with the fast paced world around me, the noise just gets louder and louder, and I feel like I am in a whirl pool getting twisted around going down the drain. I only cry to God, when I think of it, and then He pulls me out of the vortex and plants me on a rock to dry off and catch my breath. Only to do it again, what a vicious cycle I seem to get myself into. Do you think God gets tired of saving me? I know that He doesn’t but you would think that I would recognize the writing on the wall by now.
Little by little – I know that God is placing my priorities on my heart – I know that He is having me re-evaluate our family activities. This summer is going to be a great time for us to renew our family bonds and dry off and catch our breath. What does God have you evaluating?
Nurishment
Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation.
Psalm 68:19
God won’t send us where He is unable to sustain us!
<><
Genesis 22
Abraham Tested
1 Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, "Abraham!"
"Here I am," he replied.
2 Then God said, "Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about."
3 Early the next morning Abraham got up and saddled his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about. 4 On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place in the distance. 5 He said to his servants, "Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you."
6 Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, 7 Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, "Father?"
"Yes, my son?" Abraham replied.
"The fire and wood are here," Isaac said, "but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?"
8 Abraham answered, "God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son." And the two of them went on together.
9 When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it. He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. 10 Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. 11 But the angel of the LORD called out to him from heaven, "Abraham! Abraham!"
"Here I am," he replied.
12 "Do not lay a hand on the boy," he said. "Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son."
13 Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram [a] caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. 14 So Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide. And to this day it is said, "On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided."
15 The angel of the LORD called to Abraham from heaven a second time 16 and said, "I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, 17 I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, 18 and through your offspring [b] all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me."
19 Then Abraham returned to his servants, and they set off together for Beersheba. And Abraham stayed in Beersheba.
My God is faithful and mighty, He is the only One capable of providing everything I could possibly need. I have learned in the recent months how to be an obedient child. What blessings God has given me, for just being obedient. What has God blessed you with lately?
Psalm 68:19
God won’t send us where He is unable to sustain us!
<><
Genesis 22
Abraham Tested
1 Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, "Abraham!"
"Here I am," he replied.
2 Then God said, "Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about."
3 Early the next morning Abraham got up and saddled his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about. 4 On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place in the distance. 5 He said to his servants, "Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you."
6 Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, 7 Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, "Father?"
"Yes, my son?" Abraham replied.
"The fire and wood are here," Isaac said, "but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?"
8 Abraham answered, "God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son." And the two of them went on together.
9 When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it. He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. 10 Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. 11 But the angel of the LORD called out to him from heaven, "Abraham! Abraham!"
"Here I am," he replied.
12 "Do not lay a hand on the boy," he said. "Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son."
13 Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram [a] caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. 14 So Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide. And to this day it is said, "On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided."
15 The angel of the LORD called to Abraham from heaven a second time 16 and said, "I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, 17 I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, 18 and through your offspring [b] all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me."
19 Then Abraham returned to his servants, and they set off together for Beersheba. And Abraham stayed in Beersheba.
My God is faithful and mighty, He is the only One capable of providing everything I could possibly need. I have learned in the recent months how to be an obedient child. What blessings God has given me, for just being obedient. What has God blessed you with lately?
God's Ways
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
2 Peter 1:3
We are called to live in the presence of God, under the authority of God and to the glory of God. – R. C. Sproul
2 Peter 1:3
We are called to live in the presence of God, under the authority of God and to the glory of God. – R. C. Sproul
Power of words
The lips of the righteous feed many.
Proverbs 10:21
Father, what power is available in a few simple words of encouragement. Remind me to be an encourager in the lives of others. Amen.
<><
Do you know what your Spiritual gift is? Are you cultivating these gifts with the Master Farmer? Are you bearing fruit for His kingdom? There are so many different ways to be an encouragement to God’s children, please don’t limit your encouragement to just words. Have a wonderful time displaying God’s love to those around you.
Proverbs 10:21
Father, what power is available in a few simple words of encouragement. Remind me to be an encourager in the lives of others. Amen.
<><
Do you know what your Spiritual gift is? Are you cultivating these gifts with the Master Farmer? Are you bearing fruit for His kingdom? There are so many different ways to be an encouragement to God’s children, please don’t limit your encouragement to just words. Have a wonderful time displaying God’s love to those around you.
Only One God
For I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.
Psalm 135:5
Dear Lord, help me to recognize Your working in my life and to give You thanks for whatever comes my way. Amen.
<><
Dear Heavenly Father, please help me to balance my life. Help me to determine which activities You wish for me to keep and which ones You want placed on the back burner. You are so very gracious and wise; help me to get my priorities straight. I want to bring You honor and glory in all that I say and do. You have brought me so far from where You found me, help me to serve You and Your children. Lord, I can’t do this alone, I need Your love and guidance. Lord, bless me with Your Holy presence. In Jesus Precious Name. Amen.
Psalm 135:5
Dear Lord, help me to recognize Your working in my life and to give You thanks for whatever comes my way. Amen.
<><
Dear Heavenly Father, please help me to balance my life. Help me to determine which activities You wish for me to keep and which ones You want placed on the back burner. You are so very gracious and wise; help me to get my priorities straight. I want to bring You honor and glory in all that I say and do. You have brought me so far from where You found me, help me to serve You and Your children. Lord, I can’t do this alone, I need Your love and guidance. Lord, bless me with Your Holy presence. In Jesus Precious Name. Amen.
Power of our Words
He that refraineth his lips is wise.
Proverbs 10:19
Dear Lord, take control of my tongue so that I may speak only words of wisdom when necessary. Amen.
<><
Also Lord, help me not to laugh inappropriately too. Love You God!!!
Proverbs 10:19
Dear Lord, take control of my tongue so that I may speak only words of wisdom when necessary. Amen.
<><
Also Lord, help me not to laugh inappropriately too. Love You God!!!
Peace
I just wanted to share this.
May the God of peace, that great Shepherd, equip you with everything good for His will.
Hebrews 13:20-21
Every day, seek to lose yourself more in Christ, to live more completely in Him, by Him, for Him, with Him.
-Charles H Spurgeon
May the God of peace, that great Shepherd, equip you with everything good for His will.
Hebrews 13:20-21
Every day, seek to lose yourself more in Christ, to live more completely in Him, by Him, for Him, with Him.
-Charles H Spurgeon
Waiting on our LORD
I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in His Word do I hope.
Psalm 130:5
Lord, help me to learn to wait in confidence for You. I give You my impatience this day. May I rest in Your love. Amen.
<><
Isaiah 40
28 Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
Psalm 130:5
Lord, help me to learn to wait in confidence for You. I give You my impatience this day. May I rest in Your love. Amen.
<><
Isaiah 40
28 Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
God's Light
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
Lord, I pray that I can shine brightly with good deeds today so that someone may see You in me. Amen.
<><
I am so very thankful to be cracked that You have an opportunity to strengthen me and shine through me. God I pray to bring You honor and glory in everything that I do. God You are wondrous and magnificent!! I long to be in Your presence and I seek Your face. I hunger for Your Word. God, thank You for all Your children that You have blessed me with – I learn and grow in You with them. I am so very grateful!!! In Jesus’ Holy and Precious Name! Amen.
Matthew 5:16
Lord, I pray that I can shine brightly with good deeds today so that someone may see You in me. Amen.
<><
I am so very thankful to be cracked that You have an opportunity to strengthen me and shine through me. God I pray to bring You honor and glory in everything that I do. God You are wondrous and magnificent!! I long to be in Your presence and I seek Your face. I hunger for Your Word. God, thank You for all Your children that You have blessed me with – I learn and grow in You with them. I am so very grateful!!! In Jesus’ Holy and Precious Name! Amen.
Eyes on God
So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
Psalm 90:12
O Lord, You know how busy I get every day; often I lose sight of what is really important. Help me spend the day according to Your plan. Amen.
<><
Oh God, help me to keep my eyes, heart and mind fixed on You. There are so many distractions, and compromises that I make through out the day. God please help me to stand for You, in all that I do, to bring me closer to You. Keep me hungry, I want to stay thirsty, keep me close to You!! God, I want to seek You always!! I Jesus Precious Name. Amen.
Psalm 90:12
O Lord, You know how busy I get every day; often I lose sight of what is really important. Help me spend the day according to Your plan. Amen.
<><
Oh God, help me to keep my eyes, heart and mind fixed on You. There are so many distractions, and compromises that I make through out the day. God please help me to stand for You, in all that I do, to bring me closer to You. Keep me hungry, I want to stay thirsty, keep me close to You!! God, I want to seek You always!! I Jesus Precious Name. Amen.
Negative thinking
Do all things without murmurings and disputings.
Philippians 2:14
Treat arguments like weeds…nip them in the bud.
<><
I am not quite sure what the “nip in the bud” means; only because if a plant is budding or blooming then the roots are pretty deep already. Shouldn’t it say “as it sprouts”? That way it has just broken the surface so you are able to recognize it. Also you won’t have to dig so deep to get all the roots, plus there won’t be so much scaring after everything is said and done.
As that negative thought pops into your brain – get rid of it – that way the thought doesn’t float around your mind on its way to your mouth!!
Philippians 2:14
Treat arguments like weeds…nip them in the bud.
<><
I am not quite sure what the “nip in the bud” means; only because if a plant is budding or blooming then the roots are pretty deep already. Shouldn’t it say “as it sprouts”? That way it has just broken the surface so you are able to recognize it. Also you won’t have to dig so deep to get all the roots, plus there won’t be so much scaring after everything is said and done.
As that negative thought pops into your brain – get rid of it – that way the thought doesn’t float around your mind on its way to your mouth!!
Wisdom
Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed Thy commandments.
Psalm 119:66
Dear Lord, please give me good judgment in my words and deeds today, so that I may please You. Amen.
<><
Psalm 119
b Beth
9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By living according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
12 Praise be to you, O LORD;
teach me your decrees.
13 With my lips I recount
all the laws that come from your mouth.
14 I rejoice in following your statutes
as one rejoices in great riches.
15 I meditate on your precepts
and consider your ways.
16 I delight in your decrees;
I will not neglect your word.
X Teth
65 Do good to your servant
according to your word, O LORD.
66 Teach me knowledge and good judgment,
for I believe in your commands.
67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I obey your word.
68 You are good, and what you do is good;
teach me your decrees.
69 Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies,
I keep your precepts with all my heart.
70 Their hearts are callous and unfeeling,
but I delight in your law.
71 It was good for me to be afflicted
so that I might learn your decrees.
72 The law from your mouth is more precious to me
than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.
Psalm 119:66
Dear Lord, please give me good judgment in my words and deeds today, so that I may please You. Amen.
<><
Psalm 119
b Beth
9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By living according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
12 Praise be to you, O LORD;
teach me your decrees.
13 With my lips I recount
all the laws that come from your mouth.
14 I rejoice in following your statutes
as one rejoices in great riches.
15 I meditate on your precepts
and consider your ways.
16 I delight in your decrees;
I will not neglect your word.
X Teth
65 Do good to your servant
according to your word, O LORD.
66 Teach me knowledge and good judgment,
for I believe in your commands.
67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I obey your word.
68 You are good, and what you do is good;
teach me your decrees.
69 Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies,
I keep your precepts with all my heart.
70 Their hearts are callous and unfeeling,
but I delight in your law.
71 It was good for me to be afflicted
so that I might learn your decrees.
72 The law from your mouth is more precious to me
than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.
June 2, 2008 – Monday
And there is hope in thine end, saith the Lord.
Jeremiah 31:17
Father, help me to glean Your benefits from the past and move forward with confidence. Amen.
<><
Jeremiah 31
1 "At that time," declares the LORD, "I will be the God of all the clans of Israel, and they will be my people."
2 This is what the LORD says:
"The people who survive the sword
will find favor in the desert;
I will come to give rest to Israel."
3 The LORD appeared to us in the past, [a] saying:
"I have loved you with an everlasting love;
I have drawn you with loving-kindness.
4 I will build you up again
and you will be rebuilt, O Virgin Israel.
Again you will take up your tambourines
and go out to dance with the joyful.
5 Again you will plant vineyards
on the hills of Samaria;
the farmers will plant them
and enjoy their fruit.
6 There will be a day when watchmen cry out
on the hills of Ephraim,
'Come, let us go up to Zion,
to the LORD our God.' "
7 This is what the LORD says:
"Sing with joy for Jacob;
shout for the foremost of the nations.
Make your praises heard, and say,
'O LORD, save your people,
the remnant of Israel.'
8 See, I will bring them from the land of the north
and gather them from the ends of the earth.
Among them will be the blind and the lame,
expectant mothers and women in labor;
a great throng will return.
9 They will come with weeping;
they will pray as I bring them back.
I will lead them beside streams of water
on a level path where they will not stumble,
because I am Israel's father,
and Ephraim is my firstborn son.
10 "Hear the word of the LORD, O nations;
proclaim it in distant coastlands:
'He who scattered Israel will gather them
and will watch over his flock like a shepherd.'
11 For the LORD will ransom Jacob
and redeem them from the hand of those stronger than they.
12 They will come and shout for joy on the heights of Zion;
they will rejoice in the bounty of the LORD—
the grain, the new wine and the oil,
the young of the flocks and herds.
They will be like a well-watered garden,
and they will sorrow no more.
13 Then maidens will dance and be glad,
young men and old as well.
I will turn their mourning into gladness;
I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.
14 I will satisfy the priests with abundance,
and my people will be filled with my bounty,"
declares the LORD.
15 This is what the LORD says:
"A voice is heard in Ramah,
mourning and great weeping,
Rachel weeping for her children
and refusing to be comforted,
because her children are no more."
16 This is what the LORD says:
"Restrain your voice from weeping
and your eyes from tears,
for your work will be rewarded,"
declares the LORD.
"They will return from the land of the enemy.
17 So there is hope for your future,"
declares the LORD.
"Your children will return to their own land.
18 "I have surely heard Ephraim's moaning:
'You disciplined me like an unruly calf,
and I have been disciplined.
Restore me, and I will return,
because you are the LORD my God.
19 After I strayed,
I repented;
after I came to understand,
I beat my breast.
I was ashamed and humiliated
because I bore the disgrace of my youth.'
20 Is not Ephraim my dear son,
the child in whom I delight?
Though I often speak against him,
I still remember him.
Therefore my heart yearns for him;
I have great compassion for him,"
declares the LORD.
21 "Set up road signs;
put up guideposts.
Take note of the highway,
the road that you take.
Return, O Virgin Israel,
return to your towns.
22 How long will you wander,
O unfaithful daughter?
The LORD will create a new thing on earth—
a woman will surround [b] a man."
23 This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: "When I bring them back from captivity, [c] the people in the land of Judah and in its towns will once again use these words: 'The LORD bless you, O righteous dwelling, O sacred mountain.' 24 People will live together in Judah and all its towns—farmers and those who move about with their flocks. 25 I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint."
26 At this I awoke and looked around. My sleep had been pleasant to me.
27 "The days are coming," declares the LORD, "when I will plant the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the offspring of men and of animals. 28 Just as I watched over them to uproot and tear down, and to overthrow, destroy and bring disaster, so I will watch over them to build and to plant," declares the LORD. 29 "In those days people will no longer say,
'The fathers have eaten sour grapes,
and the children's teeth are set on edge.'
30 Instead, everyone will die for his own sin; whoever eats sour grapes—his own teeth will be set on edge.
31 "The time is coming," declares the LORD,
"when I will make a new covenant
with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah.
32 It will not be like the covenant
I made with their forefathers
when I took them by the hand
to lead them out of Egypt,
because they broke my covenant,
though I was a husband to [d] them, [e] "
declares the LORD.
33 "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel
after that time," declares the LORD.
"I will put my law in their minds
and write it on their hearts.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
34 No longer will a man teach his neighbor,
or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,'
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,"
declares the LORD.
"For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more."
35 This is what the LORD says,
he who appoints the sun
to shine by day,
who decrees the moon and stars
to shine by night,
who stirs up the sea
so that its waves roar—
the LORD Almighty is his name:
36 "Only if these decrees vanish from my sight,"
declares the LORD,
"will the descendants of Israel ever cease
to be a nation before me."
37 This is what the LORD says:
"Only if the heavens above can be measured
and the foundations of the earth below be searched out
will I reject all the descendants of Israel
because of all they have done,"
declares the LORD.
38 "The days are coming," declares the LORD, "when this city will be rebuilt for me from the Tower of Hananel to the Corner Gate. 39 The measuring line will stretch from there straight to the hill of Gareb and then turn to Goah. 40 The whole valley where dead bodies and ashes are thrown, and all the terraces out to the Kidron Valley on the east as far as the corner of the Horse Gate, will be holy to the LORD. The city will never again be uprooted or demolished."
And there is hope in thine end, saith the Lord.
Jeremiah 31:17
Father, help me to glean Your benefits from the past and move forward with confidence. Amen.
<><
Jeremiah 31
1 "At that time," declares the LORD, "I will be the God of all the clans of Israel, and they will be my people."
2 This is what the LORD says:
"The people who survive the sword
will find favor in the desert;
I will come to give rest to Israel."
3 The LORD appeared to us in the past, [a] saying:
"I have loved you with an everlasting love;
I have drawn you with loving-kindness.
4 I will build you up again
and you will be rebuilt, O Virgin Israel.
Again you will take up your tambourines
and go out to dance with the joyful.
5 Again you will plant vineyards
on the hills of Samaria;
the farmers will plant them
and enjoy their fruit.
6 There will be a day when watchmen cry out
on the hills of Ephraim,
'Come, let us go up to Zion,
to the LORD our God.' "
7 This is what the LORD says:
"Sing with joy for Jacob;
shout for the foremost of the nations.
Make your praises heard, and say,
'O LORD, save your people,
the remnant of Israel.'
8 See, I will bring them from the land of the north
and gather them from the ends of the earth.
Among them will be the blind and the lame,
expectant mothers and women in labor;
a great throng will return.
9 They will come with weeping;
they will pray as I bring them back.
I will lead them beside streams of water
on a level path where they will not stumble,
because I am Israel's father,
and Ephraim is my firstborn son.
10 "Hear the word of the LORD, O nations;
proclaim it in distant coastlands:
'He who scattered Israel will gather them
and will watch over his flock like a shepherd.'
11 For the LORD will ransom Jacob
and redeem them from the hand of those stronger than they.
12 They will come and shout for joy on the heights of Zion;
they will rejoice in the bounty of the LORD—
the grain, the new wine and the oil,
the young of the flocks and herds.
They will be like a well-watered garden,
and they will sorrow no more.
13 Then maidens will dance and be glad,
young men and old as well.
I will turn their mourning into gladness;
I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.
14 I will satisfy the priests with abundance,
and my people will be filled with my bounty,"
declares the LORD.
15 This is what the LORD says:
"A voice is heard in Ramah,
mourning and great weeping,
Rachel weeping for her children
and refusing to be comforted,
because her children are no more."
16 This is what the LORD says:
"Restrain your voice from weeping
and your eyes from tears,
for your work will be rewarded,"
declares the LORD.
"They will return from the land of the enemy.
17 So there is hope for your future,"
declares the LORD.
"Your children will return to their own land.
18 "I have surely heard Ephraim's moaning:
'You disciplined me like an unruly calf,
and I have been disciplined.
Restore me, and I will return,
because you are the LORD my God.
19 After I strayed,
I repented;
after I came to understand,
I beat my breast.
I was ashamed and humiliated
because I bore the disgrace of my youth.'
20 Is not Ephraim my dear son,
the child in whom I delight?
Though I often speak against him,
I still remember him.
Therefore my heart yearns for him;
I have great compassion for him,"
declares the LORD.
21 "Set up road signs;
put up guideposts.
Take note of the highway,
the road that you take.
Return, O Virgin Israel,
return to your towns.
22 How long will you wander,
O unfaithful daughter?
The LORD will create a new thing on earth—
a woman will surround [b] a man."
23 This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: "When I bring them back from captivity, [c] the people in the land of Judah and in its towns will once again use these words: 'The LORD bless you, O righteous dwelling, O sacred mountain.' 24 People will live together in Judah and all its towns—farmers and those who move about with their flocks. 25 I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint."
26 At this I awoke and looked around. My sleep had been pleasant to me.
27 "The days are coming," declares the LORD, "when I will plant the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the offspring of men and of animals. 28 Just as I watched over them to uproot and tear down, and to overthrow, destroy and bring disaster, so I will watch over them to build and to plant," declares the LORD. 29 "In those days people will no longer say,
'The fathers have eaten sour grapes,
and the children's teeth are set on edge.'
30 Instead, everyone will die for his own sin; whoever eats sour grapes—his own teeth will be set on edge.
31 "The time is coming," declares the LORD,
"when I will make a new covenant
with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah.
32 It will not be like the covenant
I made with their forefathers
when I took them by the hand
to lead them out of Egypt,
because they broke my covenant,
though I was a husband to [d] them, [e] "
declares the LORD.
33 "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel
after that time," declares the LORD.
"I will put my law in their minds
and write it on their hearts.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
34 No longer will a man teach his neighbor,
or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,'
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,"
declares the LORD.
"For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more."
35 This is what the LORD says,
he who appoints the sun
to shine by day,
who decrees the moon and stars
to shine by night,
who stirs up the sea
so that its waves roar—
the LORD Almighty is his name:
36 "Only if these decrees vanish from my sight,"
declares the LORD,
"will the descendants of Israel ever cease
to be a nation before me."
37 This is what the LORD says:
"Only if the heavens above can be measured
and the foundations of the earth below be searched out
will I reject all the descendants of Israel
because of all they have done,"
declares the LORD.
38 "The days are coming," declares the LORD, "when this city will be rebuilt for me from the Tower of Hananel to the Corner Gate. 39 The measuring line will stretch from there straight to the hill of Gareb and then turn to Goah. 40 The whole valley where dead bodies and ashes are thrown, and all the terraces out to the Kidron Valley on the east as far as the corner of the Horse Gate, will be holy to the LORD. The city will never again be uprooted or demolished."
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