I recently reviewed a book by Dann Stadler called "Angels in the Fire". I was interested to read this because it is the true story of a family who has been through countless trials in their life.
The story begins with the dramatic story of Dann and his wife, Tracey, who are in an automobile accident. A deadly one, really. The twist here is that Tracey, and witnesses to the accident, believe she was rescued by an angel. The book tells the road to recovery that her and Dann had to travel. It was several months and several physical issues that they had to overcome in order to fully recover.
A large part of the book focuses on their recovery from that accident. But the rest of the book highlights stories from the rest of their lives where there were obvious divine interventions. Dann and Tracey have an amazing story which is intriguing. As the back of the book says, if you are struggling with doubts or hard times, this story will help assure you that God still uses angels in people's lives today.
I highly recommend this book. It's easy to read, well-written, and interesting enough to hold your attention throughout the book.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Teaching Redemptively
I am reading a great book right now, called "Teaching Redemptively: Bringing Grace and Truth into Your Classroom". I think it brings up some great points that I don't want to forget, particularly when working with the youth group at church. If anyone reading this works with the youth or is an educator, this may be relevant to you. I think it's interesting, anyway.
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We need to realize that true Christian educating immerses students in the grace of the gospel. In attempting to provide a Christian education, we tend to think that if we can keep the law well enough (living up to moral standards), we are doing things the way God wants them done. We simply ignore what may or may not be happening to students internally. (Been guilty of this in the past, unfortunately!)
We assume, by virtue of students' outward conformity to our expectations, that internally they have an identity rooted in Christ, and that their good works arise from true spiritual maturity and strength. However, unhealthy persons can act in a positive way if the payoff looks good enough.
Unfortunately, we may not really concern ourselves with the fact that the fall has left everyone internally empty and suffering a sense of loss and lack of value. We readily focus on the outward effects of the fall and believe our duty is to do all we can to control and eliminate sinful outward behaviors. But if we are continually focusing on the outward behaviors by affirming the positive and punishing the negative, we may never attend to the internal emptiness of the fallen, broken sinner.
We may never introduce our students to what living the gospel is all about. Instead, we teach them to talk about the gospel while living under the curse of the law.
Whoa.
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Any thoughts? This just really hit me for some reason.
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We need to realize that true Christian educating immerses students in the grace of the gospel. In attempting to provide a Christian education, we tend to think that if we can keep the law well enough (living up to moral standards), we are doing things the way God wants them done. We simply ignore what may or may not be happening to students internally. (Been guilty of this in the past, unfortunately!)
We assume, by virtue of students' outward conformity to our expectations, that internally they have an identity rooted in Christ, and that their good works arise from true spiritual maturity and strength. However, unhealthy persons can act in a positive way if the payoff looks good enough.
Unfortunately, we may not really concern ourselves with the fact that the fall has left everyone internally empty and suffering a sense of loss and lack of value. We readily focus on the outward effects of the fall and believe our duty is to do all we can to control and eliminate sinful outward behaviors. But if we are continually focusing on the outward behaviors by affirming the positive and punishing the negative, we may never attend to the internal emptiness of the fallen, broken sinner.
We may never introduce our students to what living the gospel is all about. Instead, we teach them to talk about the gospel while living under the curse of the law.
Whoa.
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Any thoughts? This just really hit me for some reason.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
The Quarryman's Bride Blog Tour
I recently hopped on a blog tour for Tracie Peterson's new book, "The Quarryman's Bride". I have read several of Peterson's books in the past and I was excited to read this one. I have never been disappointed with her as an author. When I began this book, I'll admit I was a little nervous. I really am not a huge fan of historical fiction and didn't realize that's what I was getting into. I should have known better - Tracie Peterson can make anything intriguing!
The story follows a young woman and man whose engagement was abruptly broken, and they accidentally reunite eleven years later. Obviously there is a lot of pain, hurt, and awkwardness between them. The story shows how they repair their relationship, but Peterson intertwines a mystery in the story, as well as some great examples of how Christ would have us forgive and love each other. She isn't over-the-top or corny, as many romance novels can be.
I did enjoy this book. I see now that it is the second book in a series. I never would have guessed that, but I'd be willing to read the first one now. If you love a good historical Christian romance, this is a book for you!
Thank you to Bethany House and Litfuse Publicity Group for the chance to review this book.
The story follows a young woman and man whose engagement was abruptly broken, and they accidentally reunite eleven years later. Obviously there is a lot of pain, hurt, and awkwardness between them. The story shows how they repair their relationship, but Peterson intertwines a mystery in the story, as well as some great examples of how Christ would have us forgive and love each other. She isn't over-the-top or corny, as many romance novels can be.
I did enjoy this book. I see now that it is the second book in a series. I never would have guessed that, but I'd be willing to read the first one now. If you love a good historical Christian romance, this is a book for you!
Thank you to Bethany House and Litfuse Publicity Group for the chance to review this book.
Monday, June 17, 2013
Psalm 61
Today's scripture is Psalm 61. Go here to read it in your preferred version.
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.
2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
3 For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.
4 I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.
5 For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name.
6 Thou wilt prolong the king's life: and his years as many generations.
7 He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve him.
8 So will I sing praise unto thy name for ever, that I may daily perform my vows.
Starting in verse 2, I love this promise that we have from God. No matter where we are - in a crowd, alone in a prison cell, in Africa, in the jungle - we have access to God. We can always cry out to Him. Jesus Christ is the rock and is so much higher than us. We could not get to this rock and cling to it without God.
Verse 3 - Past experiences with God providing for us and taking care of us should strengthen our faith. We should be more likely to look to God in times of trouble because He has proven to be there for us.
Verse 4 - With salvation comes the promise of living with God forever one day. But while we are here we will need protection at times, and He will give us that as well.
Verse 5 - God knows all our promises, all our good purposes, and our promise of new obedience or "I'm going to do better..." He knows them and doesn't forget them, so we must remember them too and own up to them.
Verse 6 - I know I want God to prolong my life. I mess up so much, all I want is the opportunity to do better and do more. It is our least requirement to praise God daily and fulfill the vows we've made to Him. Our least reasonable obligation. But as we sing praises we will remember to keep our vows, and as we keep our vows we will sing praises because we will see how worthy God is.
Any comments about this scripture? Something to add?
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.
2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
3 For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.
4 I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah.
5 For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name.
6 Thou wilt prolong the king's life: and his years as many generations.
7 He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve him.
8 So will I sing praise unto thy name for ever, that I may daily perform my vows.
Starting in verse 2, I love this promise that we have from God. No matter where we are - in a crowd, alone in a prison cell, in Africa, in the jungle - we have access to God. We can always cry out to Him. Jesus Christ is the rock and is so much higher than us. We could not get to this rock and cling to it without God.
Verse 3 - Past experiences with God providing for us and taking care of us should strengthen our faith. We should be more likely to look to God in times of trouble because He has proven to be there for us.
Verse 4 - With salvation comes the promise of living with God forever one day. But while we are here we will need protection at times, and He will give us that as well.
Verse 5 - God knows all our promises, all our good purposes, and our promise of new obedience or "I'm going to do better..." He knows them and doesn't forget them, so we must remember them too and own up to them.
Verse 6 - I know I want God to prolong my life. I mess up so much, all I want is the opportunity to do better and do more. It is our least requirement to praise God daily and fulfill the vows we've made to Him. Our least reasonable obligation. But as we sing praises we will remember to keep our vows, and as we keep our vows we will sing praises because we will see how worthy God is.
Any comments about this scripture? Something to add?
Monday, June 10, 2013
Psalm 4
Today's scripture is Psalm 4. Go here to read it in your preferred version.
This may be my newest favorite chapter in the Bible... for now anyway :)
Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.
2 O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing? Selah.
3 But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the Lord will hear when I call unto him.
4 Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord.
6 There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.
7 Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.
8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.
So many of these psalms show David crying out to God in desperate need. I believe he does this because he 100% believes that God is hearing him when he cries out. In times past, he says, God has relieved him when he was in distress... why shouldn't He relieve David this time? In verse 2 David speaks to the men who are uprising against him. In my study of the psalms I am starting to believe that David was one of the most persecuted people who ever lived! He basically says a prayer and then says to these guys - How long is this going to go on? How long are you going to come after me? You're loving lies and sharing these wicked fabrications... Yet nothing is knocking David off his throne. He wonders, how long will this continue?
God is watching over us - Christians; godly people. If I need something from God, He wants me to take the action to call out to Him. Admit my need. Admit my dependence on Him. And when I humble myself and do that, He certainly hears me. David tells these people to do this - humble yourselves. Stand in awe of God. Tremble before Him out of respect. I think David is saying here - take some time to be still. When you lay down at night and it's just you, your heart, your thoughts, and God (even if you don't believe in God), think about the sin you've done. Did it accomplish anything? Did it do good for someone? I can't think of a sin that doesn't cause some kind of harm in some way. We just don't like to think of it.
Yesterday, something was irritating me and I snapped at Stephen even though he wasn't part of my irritation. My sin of anger harmed him - he was innocent - it harmed our relationship even if only for that split second - I didn't have respect for him (fortunately he is good-natured and it didn't turn into a full-out battle!) - and it harmed my children because they heard me disrespect my husband and their father. Not a good example. So no, I didn't kill anyone yesterday or beat my kids or rob a bank. But sin does harm and it does have consequences.
David says when you have the fear of God in you, you won't want to sin. You will think of that sin and you will determine to "sin not" - I will not do that again! So we are not perfect, and we know this, but strive to be Christ-like every single day. And yes, sometimes it's moment to moment!
David tells them this relationship with God is open to ALL. Offer your sacrifices to God. Now, these sacrifices are not physical animals, but ourselves. Say, I am laying down my life to You, God. My wants. The things I think I need and deserve. I'm sacrificing this and putting all my trust in God because I know He's got control of this.
In verse 6 we see there are still people who just can't believe without seeing. Or even worse, they believe everything they hear. And when those things inevitably fail, they quit believing in anything. When God shines His light on us and in us, it makes all the difference. That is different from any "fad" or cult you will find. It is unspeakable joy and incomparable feelings.
Verse 7 tells of this joy - there is more gladness in our hearts with God's presence than being fully fed and having a full wine cellar. In other words - how happy are we when our job/career is multiplying and being fruitful? Our construction business is booming. Our restaurant had to extend hours. We're seeing children learn at our hands or people being healed. Our business is being fruitful and we are benefiting from it. Our house is full of food and we have no want for anything. In those scenarios, we are HAPPY, right??
But no matter what joy this brings, it doesn't compare to the joy of salvation.
We can sleep well knowing that God is our safety. I have nothing to fear.
This may be my newest favorite chapter in the Bible... for now anyway :)
Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.
2 O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing? Selah.
3 But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the Lord will hear when I call unto him.
4 Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord.
6 There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us.
7 Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.
8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.
So many of these psalms show David crying out to God in desperate need. I believe he does this because he 100% believes that God is hearing him when he cries out. In times past, he says, God has relieved him when he was in distress... why shouldn't He relieve David this time? In verse 2 David speaks to the men who are uprising against him. In my study of the psalms I am starting to believe that David was one of the most persecuted people who ever lived! He basically says a prayer and then says to these guys - How long is this going to go on? How long are you going to come after me? You're loving lies and sharing these wicked fabrications... Yet nothing is knocking David off his throne. He wonders, how long will this continue?
God is watching over us - Christians; godly people. If I need something from God, He wants me to take the action to call out to Him. Admit my need. Admit my dependence on Him. And when I humble myself and do that, He certainly hears me. David tells these people to do this - humble yourselves. Stand in awe of God. Tremble before Him out of respect. I think David is saying here - take some time to be still. When you lay down at night and it's just you, your heart, your thoughts, and God (even if you don't believe in God), think about the sin you've done. Did it accomplish anything? Did it do good for someone? I can't think of a sin that doesn't cause some kind of harm in some way. We just don't like to think of it.
Yesterday, something was irritating me and I snapped at Stephen even though he wasn't part of my irritation. My sin of anger harmed him - he was innocent - it harmed our relationship even if only for that split second - I didn't have respect for him (fortunately he is good-natured and it didn't turn into a full-out battle!) - and it harmed my children because they heard me disrespect my husband and their father. Not a good example. So no, I didn't kill anyone yesterday or beat my kids or rob a bank. But sin does harm and it does have consequences.
David says when you have the fear of God in you, you won't want to sin. You will think of that sin and you will determine to "sin not" - I will not do that again! So we are not perfect, and we know this, but strive to be Christ-like every single day. And yes, sometimes it's moment to moment!
David tells them this relationship with God is open to ALL. Offer your sacrifices to God. Now, these sacrifices are not physical animals, but ourselves. Say, I am laying down my life to You, God. My wants. The things I think I need and deserve. I'm sacrificing this and putting all my trust in God because I know He's got control of this.
In verse 6 we see there are still people who just can't believe without seeing. Or even worse, they believe everything they hear. And when those things inevitably fail, they quit believing in anything. When God shines His light on us and in us, it makes all the difference. That is different from any "fad" or cult you will find. It is unspeakable joy and incomparable feelings.
Verse 7 tells of this joy - there is more gladness in our hearts with God's presence than being fully fed and having a full wine cellar. In other words - how happy are we when our job/career is multiplying and being fruitful? Our construction business is booming. Our restaurant had to extend hours. We're seeing children learn at our hands or people being healed. Our business is being fruitful and we are benefiting from it. Our house is full of food and we have no want for anything. In those scenarios, we are HAPPY, right??
But no matter what joy this brings, it doesn't compare to the joy of salvation.
We can sleep well knowing that God is our safety. I have nothing to fear.
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Sweet Mercy Review
I am so pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this recent book I read, I may seem like I'm gushing over it. Forgive me in advance. I got a copy of "Sweet Mercy", a novel by Ann Tatlock, from Bethany House Publishers. I can't remember why I even asked for this book - I think I considered it light reading and needed something in that category at the moment. When I got it and realized it was a "coming-of-age" drama set in the Great Depression I felt very let down. I'm not a huge fan of historical novels and thought this would be just another cheesy Christian fiction novel.
I read 24 chapters the first night. The last 13 chapters the next night.
I didn't want to put it down the first night, but my eyes wouldn't stay open any longer without duct tape.
I seriously loved this book. I loved the style with which the author wrote. I loved the characters. There wasn't anyone aggravating or cliche throughout the entire book. The main character Eve, is a bit of a goody-two-shoes character but you love her so much for her goodness and naivety... you can't fault her for some of the things she says. She learns some incredible life lessons along the way too. I loved the story line, which focused on Prohibition and how Eve and her family got mixed up in all that.
I don't want to talk about the book too much and give it away. Just know this - I don't keep a lot of fiction books after I've read them. This is one I'll pass on to several others, but I just might put my name in the front cover to make sure it gets back to me one day.
Oh, and I'll be searching out more Ann Tatlock books, you can count on that.
Thank you to Bethany House, for the book in exchange for my honest review.
I read 24 chapters the first night. The last 13 chapters the next night.
I didn't want to put it down the first night, but my eyes wouldn't stay open any longer without duct tape.
I seriously loved this book. I loved the style with which the author wrote. I loved the characters. There wasn't anyone aggravating or cliche throughout the entire book. The main character Eve, is a bit of a goody-two-shoes character but you love her so much for her goodness and naivety... you can't fault her for some of the things she says. She learns some incredible life lessons along the way too. I loved the story line, which focused on Prohibition and how Eve and her family got mixed up in all that.
I don't want to talk about the book too much and give it away. Just know this - I don't keep a lot of fiction books after I've read them. This is one I'll pass on to several others, but I just might put my name in the front cover to make sure it gets back to me one day.
Oh, and I'll be searching out more Ann Tatlock books, you can count on that.
Thank you to Bethany House, for the book in exchange for my honest review.
Psalm 41
Today's scripture is Psalm 41. Go here to read it in your preferred version.
Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.
2 The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies.
3 The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.
4 I said, Lord, be merciful unto me: heal my soul; for I have sinned against thee.
5 Mine enemies speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his name perish?
6 And if he come to see me, he speaketh vanity: his heart gathereth iniquity to itself; when he goeth abroad, he telleth it.
7 All that hate me whisper together against me: against me do they devise my hurt.
8 An evil disease, say they, cleaveth fast unto him: and now that he lieth he shall rise up no more.
9 Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.
10 But thou, O Lord, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them.
11 By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me.
12 And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever.
13 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen.
Blessed is the person who looks out for the poor or helpless - God will deliver this person in their time of trouble. God will PRESERVE me. And BLESS me. When people persecute me God will bring me out of it! God will give me strength, something I pray for often! When I feel exhausted, when I am run ragged, God will strength me. I must ask for this.
I have got to confess and repent every day. Beg God for mercy.
If people gossip or spread rumors or say bad stuff about me - even close friends - I have to turn to God in these situations. He will help me rise above those situations because of His love for me.
Blessed be God forever and ever.
Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.
2 The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies.
3 The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.
4 I said, Lord, be merciful unto me: heal my soul; for I have sinned against thee.
5 Mine enemies speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his name perish?
6 And if he come to see me, he speaketh vanity: his heart gathereth iniquity to itself; when he goeth abroad, he telleth it.
7 All that hate me whisper together against me: against me do they devise my hurt.
8 An evil disease, say they, cleaveth fast unto him: and now that he lieth he shall rise up no more.
9 Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.
10 But thou, O Lord, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them.
11 By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me.
12 And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever.
13 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen.
Blessed is the person who looks out for the poor or helpless - God will deliver this person in their time of trouble. God will PRESERVE me. And BLESS me. When people persecute me God will bring me out of it! God will give me strength, something I pray for often! When I feel exhausted, when I am run ragged, God will strength me. I must ask for this.
I have got to confess and repent every day. Beg God for mercy.
If people gossip or spread rumors or say bad stuff about me - even close friends - I have to turn to God in these situations. He will help me rise above those situations because of His love for me.
Blessed be God forever and ever.
Saturday, June 8, 2013
Kids Bowl Free!
Yes, we got free bowling passes for ALL SUMMER LONG, through September 30! We ended up paying $22 to get 2 free games every day for our whole family plus Jennifer and Seth when they are in town! Woohoo! We could have just gotten the free bowling passes for the kids but we love to bowl too, so this is something we'll hopefully be doing several times this summer! Today was our first time going to the bowling alley and we had a blast. Brianna is already asking for a bowling party for her birthday next year, in fact! My pictures are super blurry because the kids were not still at all (imagine that!) but you'll get the idea from looking at these!
So glad that Stephen finally had a weekend off that we could do some family time! We'll hopefully get to do a lot more bowling this summer!
Seeing a 2-year old wearing bowling shoes is too precious!!
Hunter spent most of his time perfecting his roll and figuring out which way of bowling he preferred. Here he is kicking while Daddy helps the ball along!
And here's the ole sit-down-and-push!
After just a few minutes Brianna was a professional at loading and pushing her ball by herself... both a 6-lb and 9-lb ball!
Hunter after a spare!
Game one! (We're a little rusty)
Waiting for our turns:
Game two (much improvement!)
An example of Hunter bowling:
An example of Brianna bowling:
So glad that Stephen finally had a weekend off that we could do some family time! We'll hopefully get to do a lot more bowling this summer!
Psalm 32
Today's scripture is Psalm 32. Go here to read it in your preferred version.
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
2 Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.
3 When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long.
4 For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah.
5 I acknowledge my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
6 For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him.
7 Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.
8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
9 Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.
10 Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.
11 Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
I am so blessed because my sins are forgiven - all my wrongs are covered by the blood of Jesus.
Psalm 85:2 - Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast covered all their sin.
Psalm 103:2-3 - Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
I am blessed because in God's eyes I am innocent of my sins, thanks to the sacrifice of Jesus and by God's grace. We should strive to have no guile found in our mouths, because this was a characteristic of Jesus. We should want that.
When I keep silent and try to hide my sin from God, I just make life harder on myself. It distracts me. It exhausts me. It makes me feel guilty. It sets me apart from God.
But here is the good news. When I acknowledge that sin and quit hiding it, God forgives me readily!
Proverbs 28:13 - He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.
God, You are my hiding place. You are my refuge. You surround me. God will instruct me and teach me and guide me with His eye - His eye which is perfect, and all-seeing, and is in the future. But I've got to be careful to pay attention to Him. If I don't listen to God's instructions, I'm just like an old stubborn mule. And that doesn't do me any good.
People who choose to live against God will not have true joy. Ever. But for those of us who entrust our lives to Jesus, we will have joy and mercy in our lives. Therefore we must be GLAD! And REJOICE! And SHOUT to the world that we have joy and why we are so joyous!
Thoughts or comments on this scripture?
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
2 Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.
3 When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long.
4 For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah.
5 I acknowledge my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
6 For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him.
7 Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.
8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
9 Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.
10 Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.
11 Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
I am so blessed because my sins are forgiven - all my wrongs are covered by the blood of Jesus.
Psalm 85:2 - Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast covered all their sin.
Psalm 103:2-3 - Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
I am blessed because in God's eyes I am innocent of my sins, thanks to the sacrifice of Jesus and by God's grace. We should strive to have no guile found in our mouths, because this was a characteristic of Jesus. We should want that.
When I keep silent and try to hide my sin from God, I just make life harder on myself. It distracts me. It exhausts me. It makes me feel guilty. It sets me apart from God.
But here is the good news. When I acknowledge that sin and quit hiding it, God forgives me readily!
Proverbs 28:13 - He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.
God, You are my hiding place. You are my refuge. You surround me. God will instruct me and teach me and guide me with His eye - His eye which is perfect, and all-seeing, and is in the future. But I've got to be careful to pay attention to Him. If I don't listen to God's instructions, I'm just like an old stubborn mule. And that doesn't do me any good.
People who choose to live against God will not have true joy. Ever. But for those of us who entrust our lives to Jesus, we will have joy and mercy in our lives. Therefore we must be GLAD! And REJOICE! And SHOUT to the world that we have joy and why we are so joyous!
Thoughts or comments on this scripture?
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Psalm 21
Today's scripture is Psalm 21. Go here to read it in your preferred version.
The king shall joy in thy strength, O Lord; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!
2 Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and hast not withholden the request of his lips. Selah.
3 For thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness: thou settest a crown of pure gold on his head.
4 He asked life of thee, and thou gavest it him, even length of days for ever and ever.
5 His glory is great in thy salvation: honour and majesty hast thou laid upon him.
6 For thou hast made him most blessed for ever: thou hast made him exceeding glad with thy countenance.
7 For the king trusteth in the Lord, and through the mercy of the most High he shall not be moved.
8 Thine hand shall find out all thine enemies: thy right hand shall find out those that hate thee.
9 Thou shalt make them as a fiery oven in the time of thine anger: the Lord shall swallow them up in his wrath, and the fire shall devour them.
10 Their fruit shalt thou destroy from the earth, and their seed from among the children of men.
11 For they intended evil against thee: they imagined a mischievous device, which they are not able to perform.
12 Therefore shalt thou make them turn their back, when thou shalt make ready thine arrows upon thy strings against the face of them.
13 Be thou exalted, Lord, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power.
A psalm written by David, praising God.
David praises God for the things he has done in his life: answered his prayers (v. 2), gave him long life (v. 4), has blessed him and made him glad (v. 6)
God will give us all these things if we ask him - long life, happiness, protection, etc. (Please note: this is not a blanket statement that all Christians will live to 90 years old being safe and happy every single day just as long as we ask. These are things we should not take for granted and should constantly be praying for God to bless us with. He may have another path chosen for us. That path may include hurt feelings, bad health, or even death. Ultimately God knows the plan He has for our individual life and although we can't see it at times, sometimes that "bad stuff" does bring about good which stretches far beyond ourselves.)
We can look in our past and find things to praise God about, we must also look to our future with faith and hope and praise on our lips!
In return, David will: have joy in God's strength and rejoice in salvation (v. 1), receive blessings and a crown (v. 3), trust in God and stand firm in Him (v. 7), exalt God with songs and praises (v. 13). We should do all these things too!
Verses 8-12 show God's anger toward those who are wicked. In David's case he was even having to deal with this issue with his sons... one who raped his half-sister... the other who tried to kill that brother, and then tried to kill David himself.. I know we all have problems but mine sure aren't that bad.
God ultimately has all the strength and power to overcome our enemies. Even when we are weak in ourselves and are feeling desperate, or that we're fighting a losing battle, He is willing to step in for us. We just have to call out to Him and trust in these things.
The king shall joy in thy strength, O Lord; and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!
2 Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and hast not withholden the request of his lips. Selah.
3 For thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness: thou settest a crown of pure gold on his head.
4 He asked life of thee, and thou gavest it him, even length of days for ever and ever.
5 His glory is great in thy salvation: honour and majesty hast thou laid upon him.
6 For thou hast made him most blessed for ever: thou hast made him exceeding glad with thy countenance.
7 For the king trusteth in the Lord, and through the mercy of the most High he shall not be moved.
8 Thine hand shall find out all thine enemies: thy right hand shall find out those that hate thee.
9 Thou shalt make them as a fiery oven in the time of thine anger: the Lord shall swallow them up in his wrath, and the fire shall devour them.
10 Their fruit shalt thou destroy from the earth, and their seed from among the children of men.
11 For they intended evil against thee: they imagined a mischievous device, which they are not able to perform.
12 Therefore shalt thou make them turn their back, when thou shalt make ready thine arrows upon thy strings against the face of them.
13 Be thou exalted, Lord, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power.
A psalm written by David, praising God.
David praises God for the things he has done in his life: answered his prayers (v. 2), gave him long life (v. 4), has blessed him and made him glad (v. 6)
God will give us all these things if we ask him - long life, happiness, protection, etc. (Please note: this is not a blanket statement that all Christians will live to 90 years old being safe and happy every single day just as long as we ask. These are things we should not take for granted and should constantly be praying for God to bless us with. He may have another path chosen for us. That path may include hurt feelings, bad health, or even death. Ultimately God knows the plan He has for our individual life and although we can't see it at times, sometimes that "bad stuff" does bring about good which stretches far beyond ourselves.)
We can look in our past and find things to praise God about, we must also look to our future with faith and hope and praise on our lips!
In return, David will: have joy in God's strength and rejoice in salvation (v. 1), receive blessings and a crown (v. 3), trust in God and stand firm in Him (v. 7), exalt God with songs and praises (v. 13). We should do all these things too!
Verses 8-12 show God's anger toward those who are wicked. In David's case he was even having to deal with this issue with his sons... one who raped his half-sister... the other who tried to kill that brother, and then tried to kill David himself.. I know we all have problems but mine sure aren't that bad.
God ultimately has all the strength and power to overcome our enemies. Even when we are weak in ourselves and are feeling desperate, or that we're fighting a losing battle, He is willing to step in for us. We just have to call out to Him and trust in these things.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Psalm 67
Today's scripture is Psalm 67. Go here to read it in your preferred version.
God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; Selah.
2 That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.
3 Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee.
4 O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.
5 Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee.
6 Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us.
7 God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear him.
Actions of God:
He is merciful to us and blesses us. He shows us favor and blessings. He judges us righteously and governs all the nations. He blesses us particularly when we praise Him.
Made me think of the song "Blessed be the Name" which says, "Every blessing you pour out I'll turn back to praise... Blessed be the name of the Lord!"
Our actions:
We need to praise God, be glad and sing due to our joy. One day we will all fear Him.
Characteristics of God:
He is the one true way in this world. He gives us saving health (a way to salvation). He shows us His will and if we walk in it we will receive salvation.
We should pray for God's increase on our family, our finances, and our literal and figurative harvests. God wants to bless us. Sometimes we are so concerned with praying to increase for the wrong reasons (increase my $ so I can be rich and get a new car) that we forget that God does want to bless us if we'll use those things for the right reasons. God wants to bless us with good health. But there are times that He'll give you a trial of bad health (or someone close to you) to bring you closer to Him. God wants to bless us with secure finances. But there are times that He'll give you a trial of making it week to week in order to bring you to your knees and realize how much He is needed. God wants to bless us with harmonious relationships. But sometimes people even in our family turn against us and we have to be examples of how God would treat them. We will have trials, yes. That doesn't mean God has stopped wanting to bless you. It doesn't mean He's no longer there for you. Keep your faith. Keep praying. Keep believing. Ask what He wants you to learn through this trial. He'll bring you through it, stronger on the other side, and more blessed!
God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; Selah.
2 That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.
3 Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee.
4 O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.
5 Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee.
6 Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us.
7 God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear him.
Actions of God:
He is merciful to us and blesses us. He shows us favor and blessings. He judges us righteously and governs all the nations. He blesses us particularly when we praise Him.
Made me think of the song "Blessed be the Name" which says, "Every blessing you pour out I'll turn back to praise... Blessed be the name of the Lord!"
Our actions:
We need to praise God, be glad and sing due to our joy. One day we will all fear Him.
Characteristics of God:
He is the one true way in this world. He gives us saving health (a way to salvation). He shows us His will and if we walk in it we will receive salvation.
We should pray for God's increase on our family, our finances, and our literal and figurative harvests. God wants to bless us. Sometimes we are so concerned with praying to increase for the wrong reasons (increase my $ so I can be rich and get a new car) that we forget that God does want to bless us if we'll use those things for the right reasons. God wants to bless us with good health. But there are times that He'll give you a trial of bad health (or someone close to you) to bring you closer to Him. God wants to bless us with secure finances. But there are times that He'll give you a trial of making it week to week in order to bring you to your knees and realize how much He is needed. God wants to bless us with harmonious relationships. But sometimes people even in our family turn against us and we have to be examples of how God would treat them. We will have trials, yes. That doesn't mean God has stopped wanting to bless you. It doesn't mean He's no longer there for you. Keep your faith. Keep praying. Keep believing. Ask what He wants you to learn through this trial. He'll bring you through it, stronger on the other side, and more blessed!
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Psalm 70
Today's scripture is Psalm 70. Go here to read it in your preferred version.
Make haste, o God, to deliver me; make haste to help me, O Lord.
2 Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after my soul: let them be turned backward, and put to confusion, that desire my hurt.
3 Let them be turned back for a reward of their shame that say, Aha, aha.
4 Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: and let such as love thy salvation say continually, Let God be magnified.
5 But I am poor and needy: make haste unto me, O God: thou art my help and my deliverer; O Lord, make no tarrying.
God's actions:
He will deliver me and help me, and He will do it quickly.
Commands to me:
Rejoice and be glad in God, say continually that God will be magnified.
If God is for me, who can be against me? As long as I love God He will always be my helpmate.
I haven't studied Psalm 40 on the blog yet, but these five verses are almost exactly the same as the last five verses of Psalm 40. I read in a commentary by Matthew Henry that some people think it is titled "A psalm to bring to remembrance" because it's a good outline to use when we are praying old prayers with new intentions. We may go through seasons where we are free from trouble, but when trouble comes we need to remember who is there for us and who our Comforter is. We may even pray the same prayer over and over at times.
Here we can see that David was in distress. He is begging God to quickly deliver him and help him. He says this in both the beginning of the prayer and the end of the prayer. People were seeking to destroy his mind, his reputation, his faith, and even his life. He was begging God to bring those people to shame and make them realize what they were doing and feel guilt for it, and then in effect turn away from what they were doing to him. David then goes on to pray for those who are not his enemies - he prays for them to have joy and that they'll continually be praising God. Those that seek God will certainly rejoice in Him and find blessings. David points out that he is poor and needy, as we all are at times. But it is these times that we cry out for help because we realize how needy we are. And this does draw us closer to God.
One name for God is Elohim. This means "God who is able." Another name is Jehovah which means "God who acts on behalf of His own people". If you are a Christian, you never have to worry that your God is unable to handle something. And you never have to wonder if God is going to be there for you. Sometimes we have to do some searching to find Him, but that's because of our failings as humans.
Comments, questions, thoughts about this scripture?
Make haste, o God, to deliver me; make haste to help me, O Lord.
2 Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after my soul: let them be turned backward, and put to confusion, that desire my hurt.
3 Let them be turned back for a reward of their shame that say, Aha, aha.
4 Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: and let such as love thy salvation say continually, Let God be magnified.
5 But I am poor and needy: make haste unto me, O God: thou art my help and my deliverer; O Lord, make no tarrying.
God's actions:
He will deliver me and help me, and He will do it quickly.
Commands to me:
Rejoice and be glad in God, say continually that God will be magnified.
If God is for me, who can be against me? As long as I love God He will always be my helpmate.
I haven't studied Psalm 40 on the blog yet, but these five verses are almost exactly the same as the last five verses of Psalm 40. I read in a commentary by Matthew Henry that some people think it is titled "A psalm to bring to remembrance" because it's a good outline to use when we are praying old prayers with new intentions. We may go through seasons where we are free from trouble, but when trouble comes we need to remember who is there for us and who our Comforter is. We may even pray the same prayer over and over at times.
Here we can see that David was in distress. He is begging God to quickly deliver him and help him. He says this in both the beginning of the prayer and the end of the prayer. People were seeking to destroy his mind, his reputation, his faith, and even his life. He was begging God to bring those people to shame and make them realize what they were doing and feel guilt for it, and then in effect turn away from what they were doing to him. David then goes on to pray for those who are not his enemies - he prays for them to have joy and that they'll continually be praising God. Those that seek God will certainly rejoice in Him and find blessings. David points out that he is poor and needy, as we all are at times. But it is these times that we cry out for help because we realize how needy we are. And this does draw us closer to God.
One name for God is Elohim. This means "God who is able." Another name is Jehovah which means "God who acts on behalf of His own people". If you are a Christian, you never have to worry that your God is unable to handle something. And you never have to wonder if God is going to be there for you. Sometimes we have to do some searching to find Him, but that's because of our failings as humans.
Comments, questions, thoughts about this scripture?
Catch a Falling Star Blog Tour
I recently reviewed Beth Vogt's new book, Catch a Falling Star. The main character of her book is Kendall Haynes who is a 36-year old successful doctor who struggles with the fact that she has not yet found her Prince Charming. Then there's Griffin Walker, who is a pilot with a lot of baggage (I just made that up!). He is grounded from flying for health reasons and is not happy about it. He's also just gained custody of his brother who he barely knows. Both Kendall and Griffin have faith, but they wrestle with what God's plan is for them. The book has a happy ending, of course, but it does end with both characters having to let go of their fairy tale dreams to have a happy reality.
I felt that this book was good as a Christian romance fiction book. I liked the character of Kendall and her spunky attitude. I also felt for Griffin as he came to grips with caring for his brother that he knew nothing about. I feel like if Vogt had stuck with the story line being just about this couple, she would have had a winner on her hands. But in the beginning of the book, another storyline takes off - about Kendall's friend Rachel who is getting married. This storyline lasts about halfway through the book and then slowly, you don't hear about Kendall's friends anymore. That story just kind of disappears. To me, that felt awkward, and almost forgotten by the author. It makes me wonder if there is a sequel on the horizon that is going to finish this part of the story. There were a couple of other storylines in this book that I also felt were a little rushed to be completed by the end of the story.
While I enjoyed this book, I did feel like there were a few loose ends at the end of the book. I would have enjoyed having some questions answered when I finished reading.
Check out my sidebar - there is a chance to win a $200 Visa cash card for a romantic weekend getaway! That's something most of us probably need and want!!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Litfuse Publicity.
Readers can connect with Beth Vogt at her Catch a Falling Star Facebook party on June 6 at 8:00 PM EDT where she will chat with readers, answer questions and give away books. Watch for details on her Facebook page.
Visit Beth Vogt’s website at www.bethvogt.com to learn more about her books, sign-up for her newsletter, and read her blog. Readers can also follow her adventures on Facebook (AuthorBethKVogt) and Twitter (@bethvogt).
Purchase a copy here.
I felt that this book was good as a Christian romance fiction book. I liked the character of Kendall and her spunky attitude. I also felt for Griffin as he came to grips with caring for his brother that he knew nothing about. I feel like if Vogt had stuck with the story line being just about this couple, she would have had a winner on her hands. But in the beginning of the book, another storyline takes off - about Kendall's friend Rachel who is getting married. This storyline lasts about halfway through the book and then slowly, you don't hear about Kendall's friends anymore. That story just kind of disappears. To me, that felt awkward, and almost forgotten by the author. It makes me wonder if there is a sequel on the horizon that is going to finish this part of the story. There were a couple of other storylines in this book that I also felt were a little rushed to be completed by the end of the story.
While I enjoyed this book, I did feel like there were a few loose ends at the end of the book. I would have enjoyed having some questions answered when I finished reading.
Check out my sidebar - there is a chance to win a $200 Visa cash card for a romantic weekend getaway! That's something most of us probably need and want!!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Litfuse Publicity.
Readers can connect with Beth Vogt at her Catch a Falling Star Facebook party on June 6 at 8:00 PM EDT where she will chat with readers, answer questions and give away books. Watch for details on her Facebook page.
Visit Beth Vogt’s website at www.bethvogt.com to learn more about her books, sign-up for her newsletter, and read her blog. Readers can also follow her adventures on Facebook (AuthorBethKVogt) and Twitter (@bethvogt).
Purchase a copy here.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Superhero Spring Fling!
May 18, we spent the morning at New Covenant church in Carthage. They were having a Superhero Spring Fling, and although I wasn't sure it was really geared toward our kids (because of their ages) we thought it sounded pretty cute. Well I am SO glad we went! It was perfect for our kids and they both had a blast! I can't thank the folks at NCF enough for this event. I can't even imagine the amount of time they put into all of this.
Hunter didn't even hesitate to go through the first "event" - a superhero training course! Brianna was more skeptical but after Hunter raced through it the first time, they both went through multiple times!
Next was jumping over city buildings! Both of our kids could do it in a single bound... with Daddy's help!
Actually, Brianna didn't need his help after all!
Oops. Hunter flew right out of my camera view!
Next up: Walking across the Red Sea!
Hunter's best superhero skill: knocking over tall towers! (And also cleaning up tall towers after knocking them over)
We learned about Noah, who was a real-life superhero because he obeyed God!
"Red Sea Bowling"
Then we learned about Samson, who was also a real-life hero.
When he trusted in God, he had massive strength!
But when he strayed from God, he lost that strength.
Slinging stones at Goliath!
Daniel in the Lions Den:
Caleb's target practice:
Fishing with Peter:
And of course, the "Lack of Faith" dunking booth!! This is Pastor Lee from NCF:
By the time it was Brianna's turn, Pastor Danny from NCF was taking his turn in the dunking booth. And she got him - on her FIRST THROW!
Sticky wall like Spiderman!
Pictures with Captain America and Spiderman! Hunter was into it but Bri was NOT loving the costumes!
They put on a really cute skit about the best superhero of all - Jesus!
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