What a Feast

O. T. #1200  "What a Feast"
April 30, 2018
Psalms 23-Part 5
Thou prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.  Psalms 23:5

LET IT GLOW

When I grew up, Mom could put on a spread now. There would be abundance of meat, whether a turkey or ham or a roast; a half dozen vegetables, salads, homemade rolls, all sorts of pies and cakes for dessert. It was like eating at a buffet. She would spend all morning in the kitchen preparing a feast. Noting was made in haste or hurry; all was from scratch, not a quick mix. Usually, we had it during holidays or family get-togethers. Mmm! No one left hungry either. Guests felt special, too, being invited to partake of such a meal.

Today's verse speaks of a table, spread out; a meal. 
Preparest refers set in a row, arrange, set in order. 

The Lord has arranged a prepared meal spread out on a table and in the presence of our enemies. Is this spiritual food for our soul, spread out in the Bible?
Are we feasting daily on the Word?


LET IT GROW

The shepherd would carry a small flask of oil to anoint the scratched faces of sheep that had to find their food among the thorns and thistles. The anointing oil of a Christian's head today means the filling of the Holy Spirit. (Falwell)

Samuel anointed David with oil, symbolizing God's Spirit, favor, and blessings were upon him.
A well-set table, the festive oil, and a brimming cup moves us beyond surviving trials as in verse 4; it gives us joy, victory, and abundance.

Jesus celebrated the Passover with His disciples the last time before His death and resurrection. One day His believers will celebrate with Jesus at the marriage table as His bride, the church.
Are we living the abundant life?

LET IT GO

Daily feast at God's table, His Word.
Ask the Holy Spirit to anoint me for doing His will.

Walking Through Valleys

O. T. #1199  "
April 27, 2018
Psalms 23-Part 4
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. Psalms 23:4


LET IT GLOW

In verses 1-3, we saw the shepherd as a guide scouting the landscape to lead his flock to food, water, and rest. The landscape in Israel was mountainous with valleys between them. In order for the sheep to get to green grass and cool, still water, the sheep would sometimes have to pass through a dark valley, where the sun was hidden by the mountains. When his sheep faced a dark valley, the shepherd was by their side, reassuring them with a gentle pat from his rod and staff. The shepherd's presence was comforting to his sheep as they traveled along this dangerous path where fierce animals, such as wolves, lay in wait to devour them for their next dinner.

The rod was a short, club-like stick worn on the belt and used against animals and thieves. The staff could serve as a walking stick as well as an instrument keeping the sheep from straying off the path.

I have always heard this verse taught that the "valley of the shadow of death" was the grave. So I looked up the meaning of the Hebrew word for shadow, which refers to the grave; calamity.

Life Application Study Bible enlightens us:

Death can cast a frightening shadow over us because we are entirely helpless in its presence. We can struggle with other enemies-pain, suffering, disease, injury-but strength and courage cannot overcome death. It has the final word. Only one person can walk with us through death's dark valley and bring us safely to the other side-the God of life, our Shepherd. Because life is uncertain, we should follow this Shepherd who offers us eternal comfort.

Are we ready to make that walk today with Jesus? We may be leaving behind a diseased body, but our soul with transform into another dimension of eternity. Jesus told us that He is the way, the truth, and the life. By trusting our Savior, we leave a dark valley where the grave covers our body and enter the heavenly and glorious new home forever with Jesus. He is with us all the way.

LET IT GROW

In the meantime, we may encounter valleys of calamity in our life here on earth. So many situations may overwhelm us-financial, vocational, relational, health, trauma, accidents, betrayal, death. Our calamity can be a crisis for us. We may not know what to do, feel powerless to fix or change it and feel we have no one who can do it for us.

Tony Evans suggests we position our self to hear from God as we seek Him. No matter the crisis, God is in control. Your crisis isn't the final word. Not every knock down is a knock out. Pray, recognizing God's person, God's history, and God's Word. Search for a specific Word from God that applies to our crisis. The battle is not ours, but it is God's.

[Glorify God as a loving, merciful God; remind Him that He gave victory to people in the Bible (Abraham, David, Paul, Jesus) and He can do it for us; Quote the promises of God, which are true and a living word. Let God have the battle and watch Him work to bring victory.]

Stacy wrote on (in)courage, devotional website:
Jesus is with us in our darkest place, in the middle of our mess, when crying behind the locked bathroom door when the doctor says the words we have been praying against for months. Are you in a valley today, friend?

When Jesus comes to lead us through a valley of calamity, it will be a gently, pleasant walk through a deep, dark, and dirty valley with evil shadows of the serpent who desires to sting us or kill us. Give Jesus our hand, life to lead us.

LET IT GO

Let Jesus be my Good Shepherd who leads me through dark valleys in my life.
Follow, trust, obey, glorify Him.

Bring Back Home Again

O. T. #1198  "Bring Back Home Again"
April 26, 2018
Psalms 23-Part 3
He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.  Psalms 23:3

LET IT GLOW

My two cats, they are something else. They are brothers, who remind me of the Prodigal son story. The orange one (Mr. T), tends to go astray from our farm. I really think he has another family, and we  are only his weekend family now. That seems to be when he shows up to eat here, anyway. Now the white one (Snowball), he is good to stay here, most of the time. So whenever I go out to feed and water them in the mornings, I'm not sure who will be there. Of course, he or they enjoy my petting and talking to them as they eat. I don't scold them for their wanderings, just welcome them back home again. And so it is at our house.
Sheep are wanderers, too. They may stray away from the herd and their shepherd as they eat, stray on the wrong path, or just go their own way. Sound familiar? Even the best saints have similar tendencies. We wander along on a side path off of God's path for us. We yield to sin and skip our prayer time and even walk by the Bible without opening it.

God knows where we are, though. The first part of our verse reassures us that He restores our soul.
Restores (shuwb, shoob)has several meanings: to turn back; to retreat; bring back home again; fetch home again; recover, refresh, render, rescue, retrieve, return, reverse, reward.

The shepherd know his sheep so intimately that he realizes when one or more have gone astray from the fold. So the shepherd goes through whatever terrain to fetch his sheep and bring them back again. If they are injured, he may carry them upon his shoulders. Now that is compassion.
Our Good Shepherd is the same way. He keeps up with His children, knows when we stray away from Him and His way, when we are down in trouble, need rescuing, need help and even carried.
Jesus' love never fail, it never gives up, never runs out on me, as the song goes. When burdens, persecution, trials exhaust our soul, or people discourage us,  He is there to restores. What a Wonderful Savior!

When part of the definition of restore do we need the Lord to supply for us today? He is everything that we need.

LET IT GROW

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.

The sheep may travel through dark valleys, yet they need not fear the danger as long as they remain near the shepherd.

Leadeth in the Hebrew language is the word nahal, naw-hal'; it refers to run with a sparkle, to flow, to protect, sustain-carry, feed, guide, lead gently, lead on.

The amazing grace of God does all these things for His beloved ones. Sometimes we need reminding that wherever we may go, and in every circumstance, we are near our Shepherd's watchful care. Our Savior wants to lead us, not just point the way, on the straight and narrow path for our life. So let us turn from our way to His way.

It is for His name's sake that he leads me in the paths of righteousness after Jesus restores my soul.

The Good Shepherd will never lead His sheep in paths that would prove harmful or destructive because it is contrary to His character. God only does that which brings honor to His name. (LifeWay's Bible Studies For Life)

LET IT GO

Keep praying for those who need to be brought back home to Jesus.
He is forever mine, so when I stray, Jesus fetches me home to His side.
Refresh and rejuvenate my soul when it is need.

Green Grass to Eat

O. T. #1197 "Green Grass to Eat"
April 25, 2018
Psalms 23-Part 2
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.  Psalms 23:2

LET IT GLOW

I recall whenever a kid, I would lie down in the green grass of the back yard, in the summer mind you, and looking up into the sky, using my imagination as to what animal shapes the white fluffy clouds made. Now that was a peaceful time. There were no jet planes going over, no semi trucks roaring on the highway every 5 minutes, no train whistle was loudly sounding like it was in the front yard, no hurried neighbors zooming by to get to their destinations, as it is nowadays. Except for Sundays, life on our country road has become anything but peaceful. Everyone is in a hurry. What a piety.
Has anyone ever eaten green grass? Can't say I have. But when animals, like cats and dogs, are sick, they often eat it so they throw up, clearing their stomach. Well, we know green grass is food for cows, sheep, goats. Just not for people, for we don't have stomachs that digest it.

Previously, in verse 1 of this chapter, we learned that when the LORD is our Shepherd, we shall not want, lack. When we follow and trust Him, our needs will be met at the right time. He will give us the best of His which is best for us. Our Good Shepherd cares for His sheep and laid down His life for them. (John 10:11)

Look at the first part of today's key verse. What is significant about green pastures for sheep? One thing is that it is the sufficient, substantial food that sheep need in order to survive and grow. In Palestine, green pastures are far and few between, so the sheep must be lead from pasture to pasture. Another thing, once a pasture is found, it is there they rest before moving on to the next pasture. The shepherd knows where the food is.

We can't skip over the word maketh. You mean to say that Jesus makes us lie down in green pastures? Who wants to lie in itchy green staining grass? Hold on friend.

The word maketh means to level, yield, behaves, adjust.

Putting this into proper perspective, does the Lord have to level us flat in bed before we look to Him for direction and peace in our life? Yes, many times I have been sick in bed, forced to spend time alone, which results in my taking advantage of quiet time for prayer. That is when I yield to listening to Him speak.
You know what, if we will make the adjustments in our time schedule to spend time with Him in Bible study and prayer, then we will find food for our hungry soul. Will we yield to Jesus before He has to level us? Maybe He has a different direction for us to go and we are not listening to hear His directions. Maybe we are feeling empty inside-let Jesus fill us with His Holy Spirit and a purpose for our life.


LET IT GROW

The second part of this verse says our Shepherd leads us beside the still waters. We know that sheep need water in order to live. It is a necessity for life. However, if the stream is swift, then it might knock down the sheep, fill its wool with water, and take it under. That is why the stream needed to be still instead of swiftly flowing.

Leadeth means to protect, sustain, lead gently on.

The Hebrew word for still refers to a place of rest.

In my area of the state, there are shade trees along the banks of our creeks and rivers. The shade of the trees and a cool breeze blowing off the water provide a wonderful place to rest during the heat of a summer's day.

So we can conclude that our Good Shepherd protects us and gently leads us on to a place of rest for our soul. The more time we spend with Him, the deeper our experience with the Shepherd is. We find peace and contentment in minds as we rest in His will. Jesus becomes our Living Water for our thirsty soul. We find joy and love from Him. When our life becomes like a turmoil troubled sea or rapid rolling flood of problems sweep us off our feet, we can roll with the flow with Jesus in our boat. He once commanded the wind and the sea to be still when the disciples' boat was rocking and filling with waves.

LET IT GO

Come to Jesus for food of His Word to fill my hungry soul and water for my thirsty spirit as the Holy Spirit swishes in.
Ask Jesus to wash my sins away.
Let Him adjust my life so there is rest for my weary soul.

What do You Want?

O. T. #1196  "What do You Want?"
April 24, 2018
Psalms 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.  Psalms 23:1

LET IT GLOW

What do we want, lack, need? If Jesus is our Good Shepherd, then we will not want, lack, anything that is necessary and good for us. Notice, the want is not an extra desire on our wish list. Throughout the years, I have experienced God's provisions of jobs, cars, money for tuition, forgiveness, love, strength, healing, etc.

David grew up taking care of his father's sheep. He learned to lead them, care for them, provide for them and protect them. It is no wonder that he used the metaphor of God being our Great Shepherd that takes care of us His sheep. So let us take this familiar chapter a verse at a time in order to soak in a deeper meaning.

The Hebrew word for LORD Shepherd is Jehovah-Raah, which means to tend a flock, pasture it,  herdman, to associate with as a friend, pastor.

Here are some things I have learned about sheep and shepherds. The shepherd of sheep went before them, making sure they are not walking into danger. If the sheep followed him, they were provided for and protected. Sheep are actually dumb animals, grazing and wandering off on its own into danger. Not looking where they are going while grazing, they can fall off a cliff, stray away from the flock, become prey for a lion or bear, and even fall into a stream, having their wool soak up the water, thus drowning the sheep. The shepherd is greatly need by the sheep, they just don't know it. And when a sheep got stuck in a thicket, the shepherd would use the crook of his staff to deliver it. He would apply ointment to sores the sheep got. If a sheep became crippled, he would tenderly carry it upon his shoulders. At the end of the day, the shepherd would lead his sheep back into the corral, inspecting each one for cuts or sores. If needed, he would apply soothing oil for healing. Then, the shepherd would lie down at the doorway so nothing could enter to harm the sheep. He knows his sheep, perhaps by name, and knows if any are missing from the fold.
If David was out on the hillside at night watching over his sheep, he would play his little harp, singing songs (psalms) unto his God. Such a practice continued in his adult life.

Jesus spoke in John 10:11, I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
in verse 14, He says, I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.

Likewise, Jesus, our Good Shepherd, takes care of His children, sheep if you may refer to us as such. There are times we wander away from Him, so He calls us by name, graciously bringing us back into the fold. When we get hurt, He tenderly soothes us and heals our wounds. Jesus leads us on a path that is right for us. He watches over us and protects us.
What a marvelous Shepherd we have! Are we obediently following Him today?

LET IT GROW

The second part of that first verse says, I shall not want.

The word want means to lack, to fail, bereave.

The shepherd knows what his sheep need-nourishing grass and cool water, protection from harm, love and care.

Jesus is called Jehovah-Jireh, The LORD will provide. This term is first mentioned in Genesis 22:123-14. Abraham was tested of his love for the LORD, if it was greater than love for his son Isaac. Abraham was told to offer his son on an altar as a sacrifice unto God, killing him. Abraham was obedient, believing God would provide, which He did. Before killing Isaac, God provided a ram in the thicket to be the substitute sacrifice.

Concerning this verse, Matthew Henry says," I shall be provided with whatever I need; and, if I have not every thing I desire, I may conclude it is either not fit for me or not good for me, or I shall have it in due time. "
God's loving, protective care is perfect; His sheep need nothing else. (David Jeremiah)

But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)

If we need it, He will give it. Do we believe it?


LET IT GO

Follow my Good Shepherd.
Ask and trust Him to provide for my needs.
Thank Him for meeting those needs.

A Meek Servant

O. T. #1195  "A Meek Servant"
April 23, 2018
Psalms 22-Part 2
The meek shall eat and be satisfied. Psalms 22:26a

LET IT GLOW

Nowadays, we pay people to serve us. Think about it-the waitress brings our food and keeps our glass full, the motel lady cleans and straightens up our room, keeping our towels supplied, the mechanic services our car, keeping it running smoothly and the tires in top shape. Yet, when we have an opportunity to serve people, do we? Do we serve others without being paid to do it? Jesus serves us salvation by the price He paid with His life. Are we willing to serve Him by giving of our life?

Psalms 22, 23, and 24 present Christ as the Shepherd, with each emphasizing a different aspect. In the 22nd , He is the Good Shepherd dying for the sheep. In the 23rd, He is the Great Shepherd caring for the sheep. In the 24th, He is the Chief Shepherd coming for the sheep. In other words, Christ died for us, lives for us, and will come for us. (Wiersbe)

Since the Jews knew nothing of crucifixion in David's time, we can conclude that the description of Christ's death on the cross was inspired by the Spirit of God.

Christ felt forsaken by God His Father, but only because He could not look upon sin. Christ was bearing our sins upon Him as He hung upon the cross. He was the perfect Lamb-sacrifice as required in the Old Testament; the perfect blood-sacrifice required.

Jump down to verses 26-28 and we read about the meek.
Meek refers to gentle in the mind or circumstances; needy, especially saintly; humble; lowly, in the Hebrew language.

What is said about the meek?

• They shall eat and be satisfied. Those who are famished and who had no spiritual sustenance may now eat of the finished work of Christ until they are full. (Falwell) Eat of the bread of life, feed with an appetite upon the doctrine of Christ's mediation, which is meat and drink to the soul that knows its own nature and case. Those that hunger and thirst after righteousness in Christ shall have all they can desire to satisfy them and make them easy. (Matthew Henry)
• All who seek the Lord shall praise Him, for their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy. We will be happy with Him forever. (verse 26)
• The whole earth will acknowledge the LORD and return to Him. Families of nations will bow down before Him. Gentiles will turn to Jesus for salvation and will be included in the church. (verse 27)
• Their kingdom belongs to Jesus, for He will be their governor. Isaiah 9:6 tells us that the government shall be upon the Messiah's shoulders. He will be recognized as the King of Kings when He comes to reign upon this earth during His millennial reign.

Will we be meek and humble in mind?

Peter describes the wife as an ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. (1 Peter 3:4b)

So, can we conclude that a gentle and quiet spirit is of great worth in God's sight? Being meek is not being weak, but is having self control.
It is something that I have to constantly work on, ladies.

LET IT GROW

Until the Kingdom Age, how is the message of salvation to be kept alive?
Verse 30 tells us that a seed shall serve Him. God always has a remnant. Generations will continue to come to Christ through the grace of God. The message of the cross will never grow old, nor can it.

Do we continue to kneel at the cross to find grace and mercy there? The love of Jesus knows no boundaries. It is available to the great or small, wealthy or pauper, young or old. It never grows old.

LET IT GO

Seek to have a gentle and quiet spirit.
Be a seed that serves Jesus.
Look for opportunities to serve others in Jesus' name.

Forsaken

O. T. #1194  "Forsaken"
April 20, 2018
Psalms 22
For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21

LET IT GLOW

Have you been made fun of because of your faith in Christ? Has it ever seemed like you were surrounded by a herd of bulls, roaring lions? Were your enemies attacking you so fierce that your heart melted like wax? Christ and David did. David writes a description of himself as well as that of Christ on the cross coming later.

Many of the psalms describe in detail events of the life and death of Christ, the Promised Messiah of Israel. Jesus quoted from the Psalms. Almost everything that happened at the Crucifixion and final hours were prophesied in Psalms. As references were made hundreds of years earlier before it actually occurred, we can read of the fulfillment in the New Testament.
We read this in:

• Jesus feeling that His Father God had forsaken Him (verse 1); 
• and was far away when He groaned for help. (Matthew 27:46)
• Relief does not come as desired. (verse 2)
• He considers himself a worm, not a man, but a reproach and despised by all. (verses 6-7)
• People laugh Christ to scorn shaking their head.
• He relies on the LORD, then let Him save this One; if He loves this One so much, then let Him be rescued, proving it. (verse 8)
• You have been my God from the moment of birth. (verse 10) God the Son and God the Father were not separated until Calvary.
• His enemies are surrounding Christ like a herd of bulls, roaring lions. (verses 12-13)

Christ could not comprehend all of that happened to Him as He hung on the cross. God did not forsake His Son in those moments, but Christ, who knew no sin, became sin for us. (2 Corinthians 5:21) God turned His back on the sin He hated, not the Son He loved. (Falwell)

God hears the cries of His children. He has the power to deliver, yet there are times He chooses not to do so. He always remains faithful. It would do us good if we remember that during our times of trouble.

LET IT GROW

How did Christ consider His life during His time on the cross, in verses 14-18?
His detailed descriptions were:

• Life poured out like water.
• Heart like melting wax.
• Strength as dry clay.
• Tongue sticks to the roof of the mouth.
• Laid in dust left for dead.
• Hands and feet are pierced.
• Bones can be counted.
• Garments are divided among the enemies.
• Dice is thrown for clothing.

As for me, it is difficult to imagine such agony that Christ endured on the cross. He did it for us, because He loved us that much. He who knew no sin became our sin so we did not have to pay for our sins. Grace and mercy! He spared us that agony eternally. He did this so we could be made right with God and experience forgiveness and love.

LET IT GO

May God receive glory for my suffering for Christ.
Thanks be to God for enduring all of that for me.
Remind myself that He has been watching over me with a shield of love from my birth.

Unshakable Faith

O. T. #1193  "Unshakable Faith"
April 19, 2018
Psalms 21
For the king relies on the LORD; through the faithful love of the Most High he is not shaken.
  Psalms 21:7 HCSB


LET IT GLOW

Can anything shake you up? Is there anything that can cause you to walk away from your faith in Jesus? I pray not, dear one. Oh, winds of life, like hateful words, may blow us down for a time, but we get back up because great is His faithfulness. When the waters become too deep as grief comes and wave after wave knocks our feet out from under us, He comes to calm the storm. God's promises remain true. Nothing can overtake us since our King Jesus goes before us, never leaves our side, nor forsakes us. He is our hope as He was king David's too.

In the previous chapter, David's people were praying for their king as he prepared for battle. Now that victory came, David is giving praise to God for it. In the first six verse, he describes all that he had as gifts from God:

• his heart's desire, (verse 2)
• rich blessings, (verse 3)
• a crown of pure gold, (verse 3)
• long life, (verse 4)
• majesty and splendor, (verse 5)
• joy. (verse 6)

In a similar way, David's king, King Jesus Christ, exchanged his crown of thorns for a crown of pure gold, because He is the victor. He will be victorious in the Battle of Armageddon. He has already been victorious over death.

So, my friends, if He can give David victory over mighty Syrian armies in battle, can't He give us victory over our enemies and battles we fight everyday? Oh, yes indeed! We must trust in God instead of our chariots and horses, (money, prestige) so to speak.

Are we looking upon all that we have-position, family, wealth, talent-as gifts from God, using them for His glory?

LET IT GROW

Do we consider a good leader as one who trusts the Lord and depends upon His unfailing love? Too often leaders trust in their own cleverness, popular support, or military power. God's power is above all of this. If we are in leadership, are we keeping the Lord at the center of our life and depending on Him? His love will keep us from stumbling.

God did not allow David to be shaken, removed from his position on the throne of Israel. We cannot be shaken from God's favor when we trust in Him. Although we may loose jobs, family, material possessions, we will not be moved or removed either. When God is our rock, the foundation on which we build our life, will remain solid, firm, and unshakable. His love will keep us from stumbling.


LET IT GO

Stand on the solid Rock, Jesus.
Look for blessings that are not visible.

An Intense Time

O. T. #1192  "An Intense Time"
April 18, 2018
Psalms 20
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.  Psalms 20:7

LET IT GLOW

Have you ever had a situation in which you prayed intensely day and night? As I prayed for the healing of my sister in law a year ago, before, during, and after surgery, she was on my mind and heart. God heard my prayers and restored her health. However, there were hours of touch and go for her. Doctors did not know what to do at one point. I didn't give up on God. He was so merciful. Praise the Lord Jesus! She is still with us, leading a somewhat normal life.
David was facing an intense time, battle against the strong army of Syria.

Psalms 20 and 21 are twin warfare events. This psalm is mostly ceremony before a battle and the next is mostly celebration after a battle. (MacArthur)

As their king prepares for battle, prayers are offered for him by God's people. In the days of distress, they ask:

• for the LORD to hear in the day of trouble (adversity, affliction, anguish, distress, tribulation);
• for the God of Jacob to defend (keep safe, strong) him;
• send help from the sanctuary;
• strengthen him from Jerusalem;
• remember all of David's offerings;
• accept all his burnt offerings;
• grant his desires of the heart (courage, understanding);
• fulfill all his counsel (advice, plan, purpose).

What a prayer by the people. As believers, we should be praying for our military leaders and president as they make decisions concerning our nation's defense.

LET IT GROW

The congregation has been praising the Lord and petitioning Him for the safety of king David. Then either he or the high priest takes the lead in the prayer, in verses 6-7:

• I know the LORD rescues His anointed.
• He will answer him from His holy heaven.
• God will rescue him by His great power.
• We will remember, boast in the name of the LORD our God, not in chariots or horses. 

The Syrians were noted for their fierceness of driving armed with scythes that mowed down their enemy like grass. David's trust lay not in the power of horses but in the power of his God. No war machines would bring Israel victory, but Jehovah would.

Is our praise and trust directed to God or objects, things?

Does God hear their prayers and give His people victory? The next chapter gives the answer.

LET IT GO

Keep praying, believing, and trusting God for answers.
Share what all He has done for His glory.

Display of Our Thoughts

O. T. #1191  "Display of Our Thoughts"
April 17, 2018
Psalms 19-Part 2
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.  Psalms 19:14

LET IT GLOW

If our thoughts were on display on a big screen, would we be ashamed or proud? David realized that God sees them first. Are they pleasing to Him?

What is David saying that we should value more than gold, even the finest gold? What should be sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb to us? The Word of God is.

Gold is of the earth, earthly. It is only for the body and the concerns of time. It is too bad that most men desire gold more than God and His Word. having lots of gold makes them think they can buy their way into heaven or with it they can do good works which will merit them a place in heaven, yet it will not. It is by faith that we are saved, through belief in Jesus Christ. It is the grace of God that allows us entrance into the eternal city, not gold of the greatest quality.

As for honey, we know that it is sweet to the taste, but honey out of the comb is even sweeter, richer, and more flavorful. When I was a child, our neighbor, who had bee hives, would bring us a jar of honey with some of its comb. Mmm, how luscious it was on a hot homemade biscuit or just to suck it out of the comb. There is no comparison with that bought in the store.

Life Application Study Bible describes the Word:

God's laws renew us, make us wise, bring joy to the heart, give light to the eyes, warn us, and reward us. That's because God's laws are guidelines and lights for our path, rather than chains on our hands and feet. They point at danger and warn us, and then point toward success and guide us.

As we have been reading through the Psalms, I for one have found some gold nuggets for my soul, valuable truths for my life. Sweet encouraging words have been words of delight to my soul. They are promises giving hope for whatever situation I am experiencing.

Do we seek a Word from God to be more valuable than gold? Where are we spending most of our time? On what are our thoughts-money or Scripture?

LET IT GROW

David closes this inspiring psalm with a sweet prayer. He asks that his words and thoughts be equal. Words of the mouth are a sham if they are not backed up by meditation of the heart. (Falwell)

Are we putting walk to our talk? If our actions and words the result of our thoughts, what are we thinking? Are they honoring to God? He reads them, after all. Ouch!

David's greatest concern as a servant of the Lord is his own acceptability to his Master, strength, and Redeemer. His heart's desire to honor God with his words and service.
Would we change the way we live if we realized that every word and thought was examined by God?

David asks that God approve his words and reflections as though they were offerings brought to the altar. As you begin each day, determine that God's love will guide what you say and how you think. (Life Application Study Bible)

As we know, David went on to be the richest man in the world at his time. God blessed his faithfulness with material riches. Yet they did not hinder his relationship with his God. He was a man of character. What an example for us. Also, he was a man of weak flesh like us. David repented of his sins and remained a man after God's own heart.

LET IT GO

May Your Words be more important to me than gold, money.
May Your Scriptures be sweet words to my soul.
May my words and thoughts be pleasing to You, O Lord Jesus.
Please forgive me for this not being so in my life.

A Sure Thing

O. T. #1190  "A Sure Thing"
April 16, 2018
Psalms 19
LORD, Your Word is forever; it is firmly fixed in heaven.  Psalms 119:89 HCSB

LET IT GLOW

We all like a sure thing, right? But where can we get one? Life has so many uncertainties. The stock market varies each day. Immunizations help, but do not always prevent illnesses or diseases. The economy has its ups and downs. People fail.
Ben Franklin said, Nothing is certain but death and taxes."
Yes, taxes are due today. We don't know if we will be alive tonight or the next hour.
Yet, through all of that, there is one guarantee for me-everlasting life after death. David found a sure thing. do you want one, too?

Where are the two places that God's glory is evident? David tells us it is seen through His creation and in His Word.

The glory of God is the sum of all of God's perfections.(Falwell)
In the Hebrew language, the word glory, kabod (kaw-bode'), refers to splendor, honor.

David emphasizes the creation of God-the solar heavens, heavens of clouds, deep space, the throne of God, etc.

Here the word of God is El Elyon, Creator.

We see His handiwork in the firmament. the universe. The heavens continue to speak in the day and make Him known in the night. They don't speak verbally, yet their message is heard throughout the earth and worlds. They glorify God. No one else has, nor could, create such magnificent things as the sun, moon, stars, planets with their moons. How incredible He is, our Creator. Who, in all of that, chooses to love us meager, sinful people. Descriptive words fail me.

Shall we take a moment and go look outside or out a window and glorify God for being Creator of the heavenlys?

People are without excuse for not believing in God as Creator of all things, according to Romans 1:20.  Nature reveals Him.


LET IT GROW

The second evidence of God's glory is found in His Word.

(Take note that the word LORD, Jehovah, means self-existent or eternal, is used here.)

In verses 7-9, we read of 6 names for God's Word with the characteristics and achievements of each:

1. The law (His teaching, a direction, instruction) is perfect, converting the soul.
2. The testimony (to bear witness) is sure, making wise the simple. It bears testimony of its divine authority.
3. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart. God's Word is our orders, charges, precepts for living.
4. The commandment (to command or to order) of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. It is divine orders to us.
5. The fear (reverence) of the LORD is clean (pure in a physical, moral, ceremonial sense), enduring forever. Scripture is a manual for worship of God.
6. The judgments (verdict, sentence) of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. It conveys His judicial decisions. (MacArthur)

To summarize this, God's Word is perfect, sure, right, pure, clean, and true. It converts the soul, is divine authority, gives us precepts for life, endures forever, and reveals God's judgment. What else can we find to be a sure thing, a true way that is right for us to base our life on, perfect for clean living?

What will we do with God's Word? Is it living in our heart and mind, or is it sitting upon the shelf collecting dust? I doubt that the latter is true, for you are a faithful student of the Scriptures with us.
May it be a blessing to each of us today. We all have different needs, living in different situations, at various stages of spiritual growth, yet the same verses can speak to us meeting those various needs. Although it was written so long ago, it is relevant today. How amazing! How precious!

The Word holds the secret to eternal life-Jesus Christ. He laid down His life so we can live eternally in heaven with Him, live free from the chains of sin that have us bound here, and gives us strength to carry on until we are called home.

LET IT GO

What a friend we have in Jesus!
Take comfort, strength, encouragement in God's Word.
It is Truth, so trusting in Jesus as my personal Savior guarantees heaven as my home.

Who do we Exalt?

O. T. 1189 "Who do we Exalt?
April 13,2018
Psalms 18-Part 5
The LORD liveth: and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.     Psalms 18:46

LET IT GLOW 

What a victory cry by David. He recognized that his victories were not due to his own doing or power. In a time of crisis, people seek a higher power.
Our God is alive and working today. The question is, "Do we see Him working?"

We can look around and see evidence of His mighty existence. Hearing the sweet songs of the birds, feeling the blowing wind upon my face, petting the soft fur of my cats, smelling the lovely flowers, watching the cute baby calves prancing in the field, the green hills and valleys, and in my granddaughter-yes my God is everywhere.

Not only is there physical evidence, but His Spirit is living within my soul. I am redeemed! So let us praise and exult Him together this day. Such grace!

LET IT GROW 

He is the God who pays back those who harm me.  (verse 47)

David saw the results of this verse when king Saul and later Absalom die. God was going to bless the Israelites through David. We can read where he conquered their enemies and gained control of the land. He established the worship of God in His sacrificial system, in the temple.

Being His beloved children, we can trust God to make things right for us.
We cannot leave out verse 50:
God gives victory, shows unfailing love to His announced, to David and all his descendants forever.
Jesus is the seed of David, who will ultimately defeat Satan.

LET IT GO

Bless and exalt the God of my salvation.
Give thanks and sing His praises today.

Promises

O. T. #1188  "Promises"
April 12, 2018
Psalms 18-Part 4
God's way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true.  Psalm 18:30 NLT

LET IT GLOW

Being a word nerd that I am, some words just seem to jump out at me off the page. Here we go.
In our key verse, David is describing his God:

• His way, in the Hebrew language, is  a road (as trodden); a course of life or mode of action; a journey; a manner; a pathway;
• is perfect, refers to integrity, truth, without spot, undefiled.

When we think of that sentence, God's way is perfect, we can consider whether it is God's path for us to walk is a path of truth; the course of life He has for us to follow is unspotted; His actions are showing integrity; His manner of being is undefiled.
Should we follow God on the path He has for our life, we will live a life of integrity. Are we on that path?

In the King James Version of the Bible, the second sentence reads, the word of the LORD is tried: He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him.

Recall that a buckler is a shield, protector. God's Word has been tried and it proved itself to be true. He is our protector.
Are we trusting God with our soul, life, family, reputation, business, job? Are we trusting His promises to be true?

Jesus said in John 8:32, And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Is there anything from which you need to be set free? How abut the devil's lies, our insecurities, the stronghold that has us down?

Forever the Lord our God is faithful. Great is the Lord Jesus. May we praise You today.

LET IT GROW

According to Matthew Henry's Commentary, David looked back with thankfulness upon the great things which God had given to him:

1. all his skill and understanding in military affairs; (verse 34)
2. bodily strength for war; (verses 32, 39)
3. great swiftness to fly upon his enemies, not flee from them; (verse 36, 37)
4. very boldness and daringness in his enterprises; (verses 29, 33)
5. protection and safety amidst perils; (verse 43, 48)
6. prosperity in his designs; (verse 35)
7. victory over his enemies-Saul, the Philistines, Moabites, Ammonites, and others; (verses 40, 42, 48)
8. raised David to the throne as king of Israel.

Since David is a type of Christ, then we can count on our Savior to provide these things for us, His children. Are we lacking in any of the above? God will supply if we ask Him. We serve a mighty King-Jesus.

LET IT GO

Declare God's majesty to others.
Share His promises that I have experience to be true.
Have faith in God today, watching Him work in my life and circumstances.

A Candle

O. T. #1187  "A Candle"
April 11, 2018
Psalms 18-Part 3
For Thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.  Psalms 18:28

LET IT GLOW

A few years ago, we were without electricity for a week. We would use candles for our light until the generator was hooked up. I would carry one with me whenever I went into another room. David is saying in this section of chapter 18 that God is our light for our life. His Word lights up our path for us to travel, showing us how to live in our situation, which way to turn as we make decisions. When God is there, darkness leaves.

God is going to light David's candle. He will be the psalmist's light in his darkest hour. David has this full assurance since he has lived uprightly. We can have that same promise as we live righteously in Christ Jesus. When we feel that we are walking in dark discouragement, we can turn to Jesus, the Light of the World.

There are eighteen other verses in which David uses the word light as he wrote the Psalms. Here are a couple of familiar ones:
Psalms 27:1a, The LORD is my light and my salvation: whom shall I fear?
Psalms 119:105, Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

In Matthew 5:16, we are told to Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Is God's light on display in our life so others will Christ working and living in our life?

In John 8:12, Jesus said, I am the light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Does Jesus light up our life? Is He the source of our joy?

LET IT GROW

We do not want to skip over verse 25-27 where God gives to everyone according to their  measure of giving:

• mercy to the merciful; (verse 25)
• uprightness to those who are upright, without spot, undefiled, integrity, truth; 
• purity to those who are pure; (verse 26)
• forward to him who shows himself forward, distorted, false, crooked, perverse;
• rescue the humble, and humiliate the proud. (verse 27)

If we want mercy, then we need to show mercy to others. If we don 't want to be humiliated, then we should be humble.

LET IT GO
                     ...and let Jesus be the light of my life.
                                ... and show mercy, be upright, and humble.
                             

When Prayer Shakes up Things

O. T. #1186  "When Prayer Shakes up Things"
April 10, 2018
Psalm 18-Part 2
In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: He heard my voice out of His Temple, and my cry came before Him, even into His ears. Psalms 18:6

LET IT GLOW

When David was in distress, he did the only thing he could do-call upon the LORD, cry unto his God. What was the reaction to Jehovah's hearing David's prayer?

• the earth shook and trembled; (verse 7)
• the hills moved;
• smoke went out of His nostrils; (verse 8)
• fierce flames leaped out of His nostrils;
• glowing coals blazed forth from Him;
• He opened the heavens and came down; (verse 9)
• dark storm clouds were beneath His feet;
• He rode upon the wings of a cherub angel, flying upon the wings of the wind; (verse 10)
• He was surrounded by darkness, dark rain clouds; (verse 11)
• thick clouds shielded the brightness around him, raining down hail and lightning; (verse 12)
• The LORD thundered from heaven, the voice of the Most High resounded; (verse 13)
• He shot arrows and scattered His enemies, with lightning flashing, causing great confusion; (verse 14)
• at His command, the bottom of the sea could be seen and earth's foundation laid bare;(verse 15)

Yes sir, I'd say David's prayer shook up things all right.
Does this sound familiar? What about the events which took place at the crucifixion of our Lord Jesus? The veil of the Temple tore from top to bottom, allowing us direct access to God through Jesus, the earth quaked and rocks rent, as well as graves were opened. (Matthew 27:51-52)

God frustrated Saul at Gilboa (1 Samuel 31:1-4) as He frustrated the designs of Satan at Calvary (Luke 24:1-7) Falwell

Does our prayer life shake up things? Does the Lord come down to give His answer to us as David? Well, He may not be as dramatic towards us, but God hears the requests of His children. He would move heaven and earth for us, friends. Are we calling upon this loving God? Great is His faithfulness.

LET IT GROW

David sang this song on the day the LORD rescued him from all his enemies and from Soul. Jesus personally rescued David by:

• reaching down from heaven,
• rescuing him from powerful enemies,
• supporting him in David's distress,
• leading him to safety,
• rescuing David because God delighted in him,
• rewarding him for doing right. (verses 16-20)

Can we see the grace of God here? Since God had a plan for David's life, in being king over Israel, He was not going allow Saul and his army to kill this shepherd.

Do we see how great our God is? He revealed Himself to David in such magnificent ways. Can't He do the same for us? As we trust Him with little things, and He comes through for us, then our faith grows, and we realize that God can be trusted with big things in our life.
Our God is in control. We must trust His wisdom and deliverance in His timing. Who could use some of the above in our life? God's power and love has not changed. Shall we pray for God to shake up things in our life, our family, our church, our nation? Then watch and see Him work. give glory to our God on High.

LET IT GO

Cry out to the Lord Jesus.
Call upon His name.
Thank You Heavenly Father for hearing my prayers.
I am trusting in You today.

When in Need

O. T. #1185  "When in Need"
April 9, 2018
Psalms 18
I will love Thee, O Lord, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust: my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. Psalms 18:1-3

LET IT GLOW

In David's song of praise and thanksgiving, he reflects on the goodness of his God. He spoke these words, which are found in 2 Samuel 22, after God had delivered him from his enemies and Saul.  How does he describe his God?
*The Hebrew word is in the parenthesis, along with its pronunciation.

God is David's:

• strength (chezeq, pronounced khay'zeh), which refers to help;
• rock (cela, seh'lah) means to be lofty; a craggy (rough and ragged) rock or fortress; a stone, a stronghold;
• fortress (metsudah, mets-oo-daw') is a castle, defence, fort, strong place;
• deliverer (palat, paw-lat') means to slip out; escape; carry away safe;
• my God-the personal divine being who holds our future; 
• buckler (meginnah, meg-in-naw') refers to a shield, a protector;
• horn of salvation-horn (qeren, keh'ren), which is a cornet;
• high tower (misgab, mis-gawb') is a cliff; a lofty or inaccessible place; refuge. 

Did you pick up on a common thread going through these descriptive words? Help, stronghold, strong place, safety, future, protector, salvation, refuge. David's faith is seen here as he depended upon God for his very life as he ran for his very life.

God starts out being our rock beneath our feet when we are slipping and falling in our life. Then He ends up being our high tower above our heads. So when we trust in Jesus, He equips us with His provisions from head to toe. Can't get any better than that.

Do we run to God for our protection, our safe place, help when we are in need? When we do, then we will find Him being our strength and rock.

LET IT GROW

Read verse 3.
Do we call upon the Lord? Do we wait to call upon Him whenever we are in trouble, need?
Do we give Him praise because He is worthy?
Are we trusting God to keep us safe from our enemy, Satan?

LET IT GO

Jesus, You are my rock, so I shall not be moved, though my enemies persecute me.

Eyes and Eagles

O. T. #1184  "Eyes and Eagles"
April 6, 2018
Psalm 17
Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings.  Psalm 17:8

LET IT GLOW

Would you consider the eye as the most precious organ in your body? The eye is surrounded by projecting bones. The eye is hedged about with the eyebrows, fenced in by eyelashes, and given the curtain of the eyelids. The pupil is the black center of the iris, which is the colored and larger circle. The pupil would be the most precious point within the eye. The pupil allows light rays to enter the pupil as it contracts and dilates. Light hits the lens and then the retina, which is in back of the eye, where an image is transmitted to the brain. Then we recognize what we see. What a complex organ that God created.

As a person protects the pupil of their eyes, so God protects His people. Just because we have troubles, it does not mean we have missed His protection.

God's protection has far greater purposes than helping us avoid pain; it makes us better servants for Him. (Falwell)

What is the center of our spiritual eye? Is God the center? Or is our focus on things, people, positions, activities?

He kept him as the apple of His eye. (Deut. 32:10b) Moses wrote about God's people being found in the wilderness by Him.

Do we desire to be the apple of God's eye? then we must make Him the center of our life.

God will hide us under the shadow of His wings.

LET IT GROW

In the last part of our key verse, David desires to be hid under the shadow of God's wings. One time I was in the backyard when this huge shadow came over me. It was an eagle flying above me. I stood there amazed at that bird making such a large shadow over me. Immediately, I thought of this verse.

Again, we have a symbol of God's protection. Actually, we do not know if God has wings, nor do we know how big they are if He does. Would they be as big as the earth, a car, an eagle? Doesn't matter anyway. The thing is, as a mother bird protects her babies by covering them with her wings, so does God for His children. When her baby birds learn are learning to fly, the mother flies close so she can swoop under them in order to catch them as they fall.

There is no one like our God. He knows when to swoop under us or hover over us to protect us. Are our eyes open to see His protection?

LET IT GO

Keep me as the apple of Your eye, Father.
Hide me under the shadow of Your wings.
Thank God for His protection.

Path of Life

O. T. #1183  "Path of Life"
April 5, 2018
Psalms 16

LET IT GLOW

This path of life on which I am traveling leads me to come in contact with many diverse people. Some are Christians and some are not. Am I showing them a life with Christ is a joyful one so they want to come to Christ? Join me as we see what David has to say about this.

This Psalm is known as a Michtam of David, the Golden Psalm, which is one of six he wrote that are of this type. It is a Messianic Psalm that reveals the mystery of the resurrection of Christ. Also, it is described as a doctrinal and spiritual truth that is a mystery, thus called the Golden Mystery.

There are three different names of God, according to David Jeremiah:
Elohim (the powerful creator God), Yahweh (the covenant giving God),and Adonai (the Lord and Master of life). David saw in all these names the personal presence of God in his life.

Jerry Falwell said David appealed to God, like body-guards surround a king and shepherds protect their flocks, whose name is El (the Omnipotent One), the Preserver of Men (Job 7:20), and our Mediator (the Lord Jesus Christ).   We are promised preservation in Isaiah 49:7-8. David is trusting in this God.

What else has David said about God?

• David puts his trust in God. (verse 1)
• My goodness (happiness) extendeth (besides or beyond) not to Thee. In other words, God is his Master, so every good thing David has comes from God. David's well-being is entirely dependent on God.(verse 2)
• The godly people in the land are true heroes. David takes pleasure in them. As this psalm is a reflection of Christ, then His happiness would be as Christ fellowshipped with His people on earth. (verse 3)
• Also, to the excellent (powerful, glorious, mighty) God, in whom is all his delight. (verse 3b)
• God is his inheritance and cup of blessing. (verse 5)
• Thou maintains my lot (circumstances, or the place God has put a person). (verse 5)
• The land You have given me is pleasant and a wonderful inheritance. (verse 6)
• David blesses the Lord who guides him and instructs him. (verse 7)
• God is always set before me. You are always with me, so David says he will not be shaken, moved, for God is right beside me. (verse 8)
• You make my heart glad, I rejoice, and my body rests in safety. (verse 9)
• God will not leave my soul in the grave. Jesus resurrected after his death, providing for our soul to join Him in heaven. (verse 10)

Are we happy where God has placed us? Does our happiness come from God? Do we recognize our blessings and thank God for them?
God will bring us to life again to live with Him forever. Our soul does not stay in the grave. Later on, our body will be resurrected to join our soul. It will fly in the sky.

In John 14:19b, Jesus tells us, because I live, ye shall live also.

LET IT GROW

Look at verse 11: Thou wilt show me the path of life: in Thy presence is fullness of joy: for at Thy right hand there are pleasures forevermore.

Is God showing us the way of life? Are we traveling on the path He has for us? If we have stayed, He will get us back on the right path, if we only ask. So many times I have strayed off that path, but He continues to love me and show mercy. You too can experience a second chance, third chance...
Is there joy in His presence?
Are we looking forward to living with Him forever?
Can I get a shout "Hallelujah!"?

LET IT GO

Jesus, You are worth all the honor and praise.
Thank You for the salvation You provided for me.
Your presence overwhelms my soul.
Help me to be content where I am and with my life situation, honoring You.
Lead me along Your path for my life.

Abiding and Dwelling

O. T. #1182  "Abiding and Dwelling"
April 4, 2018
Psalms 15
LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? Psalms 15:1

LET IT GLOW

Are you abiding with God while here on earth? Are you ready to dwell with Him forever in heaven?
As I read today's Psalm, I thought of my sister in law, Wanda. She was abiding with her Lord Jesus here as she lived 67 years here. Now she is dwelling with Him in her eternal, glorious home in heaven. I don't wish her back to live a life of pain and suffering. So I can be happy for her on one hand, but miss her on the other hand. Greater things are to come for those who believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

In our key verse, the terms tabernacle and holy hill are interchangeable terms which indicate the dwelling place of God and descriptively express intimate fellowship with God. (Jeremiah)

Did you notice the two verbs David used in the two questions?
Abide refers to a sojourner, guest, while dwell means to reside or permanently stay.

We see a progression from a guest to full-time resident in the presence of God. So those questions speak no only of being at home with God on earth but also in heaven. Preparations must be made here in order to live in heaven.

LET IT GROW

God calls His people to live morally upright. In this song by David, God gives us 10 standards to determine how we are doing in His standard of living for us. Who can abide and dwell with God?

1. The one who walks uprightly, lives honestly. Uprightly (integrity) refers to being whole, or wholehearted, and sound.
2. They work or practices righteousness. It shows one is right standing with God and fellow humans.
3. They speak the truth in their heart, from a sincere heart.
4. He does not backbite or slander with his tongue. Slandering means to wonder about on the tongue. This pictures on who walks about, pouring out verbal venom, poisoning others behind their backs.
5. He does not harm his friend.
6. He does not discredit his neighbor nor do them harm.
7. This one does not despise a vile person. The vile person is literally a worthless reprobate, totally disinterested in spiritual things.
8. He honors those who fear the LORD, who are faithful followers of Jesus.
9. He keeps his word, no matter the cost.
10. He does not take a bribe against the innocent.

The one who does these will never be moved.(verse 5)
Such people will stand forever, those who live this way.
Oh my, do I fall short in practicing the items in this list. I have some homework laid out for me to do.

Brother Jerry Falwell said, "When a man lives righteously, there is no storm that can uproot him from the soil of God's service."

LET IT GO

Help me Jesus to love You wholeheartedly and love my neighbor as myself.
Help me to stand strong in faith, abiding with You.
Thank You Jesus for providing me with an eternal home where I can dwell with You forever.

The Foolish

O. T. #1181 "The Foolish"
April 3, 2018
Psalms 14
They will be filled with terror, for God is with those who are righteous. Psalms 14:5

LET IT GLOW

Good morning everyone. It seems like a month since we met for Bible study. Thank you for your prayers for my family as we went through the death of my sister in law. She had an early Easter, going to be with the Lord Jesus. Though we miss her greatly, is not suffering as she was here. Her healing was ultimately. One day we will be with here in heaven.

LET IT GLOW

God is with the generation of the righteous. So those who attack God's followers may be attacking God Himself. To attack God is absolutely futile (Ps. 2:4-5, 10-12) (Life Application Study Bible)
Do you feel like you are loosing the battle? We can be absolutely sure that our ultimate victory is in God. He has promised to be a present refuge for the righteousness. When evil presses in, God is our secure place, our hope.

In verse 7, Zion was the place on earth where God was pleased to reveal His presence, protection, and power. (Psalms 3:4; 20:2; 128:5; 132:13; 134:3) MacArthur

Jesus will return to earth at Mt. Zion, Jerusalem. What a day that will be! All will see Him. Are your loved ones ready?


LET IT GROW

Reading this short chapter, we find that David shows a distinction between those who worship God and those who refuse to worship God. David worshiped God, and under his leadership, Israel obeyed God and prospered. However, several hundred years later, Israel forgot God. It became difficult to distinguish between idol worshipers and God's followers. In Isaiah53:6, the prophet spoke of people (the Israelites) who had gone astray, as David did here. In Romans3:10-12, Paul quoted this chapter. He referred to the straying sheep as all people. the whole human race, Jews and Gentiles, had turned away from God.

David refers to the fool in this chapter. In the Hebrew language, fool is one who is morally deficient,
David describes the fool as:

• saying in their hearts, "There is no God;" (verse 1)
• being corrupt and does no good:
• eating people like bread;
• wouldn't think of praying to the LORD;
• frustrating the plans of the oppressed;

There is no one who does good not even one. (verse 3b)
No one is perfect, but Christ. We stand guilty of sin, in need of forgiveness. God wants us to love Him with all our heart and obey His laws. since we fail in obedience, falling short, we must turn to Christ to save us.

The true atheist is either foolish or wicked. He is foolish when he ignores the existence of God. he is wicked because he refuses to love by God's truth.

Jehovah is the One in which we trust our soul. What a wonderful Savior is Jesus!

LET IT GO

Repent of my sins.
Trust God to be my refuge.