Hey Ya'll, God is Good

O. T. #1214  "Hey Ya'll, God is Good"
May 31, 2018
Psalms 34-Part 3
O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.  Psalm 34:8

LET IT GLOW

Don't you just love these psalms? David's writing seem to speak to us no matter what we are going through, no matter where we are in our Christian walk, no matter what serious thing we are facing.
We have heard it said that we are either in a trial, come through a trial, or are going into a trial. I say, "The Christian life is full of challenges. It is how we deal with them that counts."
Now I couldn't skip over this verse. I have heard the first part quoted, not knowing that there was a second part to it. Oops.

O taste and see that the LORD is good.

Who is David talking about? Well, in the Hebrew language, taste refers to an original formation; product (created thing); creature.

Okay, is David talking to us creatures? Where I come from, I think we would say, "Hey ya'll, see, the LORD is good! I told ya that!"

How has God been good to you lately? Can you make a list of unique and personal ways He has been so good in the wildest sense?
Pardon me, friends, but I will be the first to do so.

• As you read this, I will be spoiling my 6 grandchildren, which I have not seen for a year and a half. (Right now, I am still home writing this ahead of time.) Woohoo! Here I come Rhode Island! It is a blessing to be able to afford a plane ticket.
• What joy it was to watch my granddaughter hit the soft ball in a game, and then score a run. with four grandparents cheering her on, how could she do less?
• Friday, I went to the doctor with an ear infection. Through the avenue of medication, I am getting well so I can enjoy going places with the family. Yes, the Lord is good.
• Speaking of family, how blessed I am. I have to brag on my two children and their spouses. They are in church and serving the Lord Jesus. They take their children to worship, not send them. I realize this when around me are families divided with problems beyond my thoughts.
• I lost my pet cat last week. Snowball was the faithful cat who stayed home, while his brother was the prodigal son, returning on weekends. So I miss him every time I step out on the front porch. He was always there waiting to be petted. Well, the Lord blessed me with a stray cat before this happened. She is so sweet and becoming friendly. At first, I wasn't sure it was a blessing, but I know it was now.

Okay, your turn. Won't you take a few minutes to share with us how God has blessed you lately?

Plead His promises, He will fulfill them; and you shall know in consequences, that the Lord is good.(Clarke)

LET IT GROW

Blessed is the man that trusteth in Him. KJV
Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him! NLT
Happy is the man who takes refuge in Him! HCS
Happy are those who find safety with Him. GNT

The Message says, Open your mouth and taste, open you eyes and see-how good God is. Blessed are you who run to Him.

Some experiences must be enjoyed to be understood. There are not words adequate to tell of them. (Meyer's Commentary)

Let us therefore be so convinced of God's goodness as thereby to be encouraged in the worst of times. to trust in Him. (Matthew Henry's Commentary)

Do we run to our God with the little things and the big things in our life?
Is our safety found in Him?

Great is His faithfulness. We are in His hands. This is my confidence. You have never failed me yet.
He can move mountains, erupt volcanoes.
Are we happy and full of joy in Him? David could say this as he ran for his life, as he found refuge from Saul in the enemy's camp.

LET IT GO

Jesus
Others
Yourself

Our God is good! Amen!

The Right Mindset

O. T. #1213  "The Right Mindset"
May 30, 2018
Psalms 34-Part 2
O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together. Psalm 34:3

LET IT GLOW

When we magnify (lift up, make great) the Lord Jesus, it puts us in the right mind set, doesn't it? Our thoughts turn from the to-do-list, schedule ahead of us, duties, and worldly things for a short while. Come along with me today, friends, as we exalt (to raise, hold up) Him together. Thank you for joining me, so I not alone. Feasting with others makes it much more enjoyable. Grab a glass of iced tea and sit with me on the front porch this morning. Birds are singing praises to their Creator, so let us join them.

Oh, magnify the Lord, for He is worthy to be praised. So shall I be safe from mine enemies, I will magnify the Lord. the Lord liveth, and blessed be the Rock, let the God of my salvation be exalted.

Life Application Study Bible has some good things to say:
God promises are great blessings to His people, but many of these blessings require active participation. He will

• set us free from fear (verses 4 and 6),
• guard and defend us (verse 7),
• show us goodness (good in the wildest sense) (verse8),
• supply our needs (verse 9),
• listen when we talk to Him (verse 15),
• and redeem us (verse 22).

Did you notice that it was when David sought the Lord that He answered David?
Do we want to be happy? Then take refuge in God.
Want to lack nothing, any good thing? Fear, reverence God.
Which in the above list are you lacking, desiring? Shall we find out how to receive it?

LET IT GROW

Do you desire to live a long and prosperous life? LASB continues to say:
We can appropriate God's blessings when we:

• trust Him (verse 4 and 10),
• fear Him (verses 7 and 9),
• cry out to Him (verses 6 and 17),
• take refuge in Him (verse 8),
• refrain from lying (verse 13),
• turn from evil, do good, and seek peace (verse 14),
• are brokenhearted and humble (verse 18), and
• serve God (verse 22).

In 1 Peter 2:1-3 NLT, Peter gives us a list of what we are to lay aside and not do-deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech. We are to crave the pure spiritual milk like newborn babies. That is so we will grow in full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment now that we have had a taste of the Lord's kindness.

I have felt sorry for David in all he went through, yet we would not have such grandeur words had he not endured to praise God through it all. Truly he was a man after God's own heart. While blessing God, David has on the other hand blessed us in the process. Makes me want to cheer him on during the tough times-go David go! You will reign as king over Israel, in spite of your enemies, for it is the will of God for your life.
Go, dear one, go! God has a plan for your life.
Shall we, too, strive to be a woman or man after God's own heart!

LET IT GO

Lord Jesus, will You set me free from the fear of the unknown future as I trust in You?
Will You guard and defend me as I respect, praise, and magnify You?
Today, will You show me good in the wildest sense, beyond my imagination?
Supply my needs as I cry out to you, sweet Jesus.
Won't You listen to my prayers as I am brokenhearted and humble before You.
Please keep me always serving You with my life. Keep me from straying away.
Praise Jesus, my Savior, Redeemer, my Provider, my King and Lord!!!!

Rantin' and Ravin'

O. T. #1212  "Rantin' and Ravin'"
May29, 2018
Psalms 34
I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalms 34:1

LET IT GLOW

We need a little background of what is happening in David's life as he writes this Psalm. We find it recorded in 1 Samuel 21:10-15. Priest Ahimelech had given David the holy bread offered to the Lord, which priests were allowed to eat afterwards. Also given was the sword of Goliath, the Philistine, whose head David cut off. David took it as he ran from Saul again. Then David went to Achish, the king of Gath. Problem is, this king knew who David was and what he had done, so David acted like a mad man in order to get permission to dwell in their land. Saul was afraid of the Philistines and the giants. So David was safe for a while.

Threats and danger were regular occurrences in David's life, yet in each one he sought the Lord, prayed for rescue, and experienced deliverance.  (Lydia Brownback)

Now let's, proceed looking into the song David wrote during this time. God's grace is what David is proclaiming. Read this first verse. What is David saying he will do at all times? Bless the LORD.

Bless means to kneel down; praise; solute; thank.

Is David determined to kneel before the Lord in worship, giving Him praise and thanks? Sounds that way. When will he praise the Lord? In every situation and under every circumstance. Thank You Jesus for all the blessing You pour out on Your children.

Secondly, David says his praise will continually be in his mouth.

Praise refers to laudation (act of praising, eulogy) and a hymn.

A song of praise to God is continually in his mouth. It helps me to sing His praises too when I listen to Christian music on the radio instead of secular music. Not only the old hymns, but modern praise songs encourage me while revering Jesus.

Third, in verse 2, David says his soul will boast in the Lord.

Boast means to rave; to celebrate; praise.

So it is okay to rant and rave, just so it is about Jesus. Hmm. I need to change my subject of raving on about things or situations or people. I tend to rant on when things aren't going my way?
David is raving about God. Are there things God has done in your life that you can rave about, celebrate, and praise Him for? Life, breath, salvation, love, family, grandbabies to hug and kiss, etc.
I'm sure that I will be raving about them whenever I return home.


LET IT GROW

In verse 3, David extends a call for Israel to come and praise Jehovah with him. (Falwell)

Let us exalt, magnify His name together.

Magnify means to make great; excellent; to be large in mind; lift up.

Shall we lift up Jesus, making Him great?

LET IT GO

Bless, praise, magnify, and boast in Jesus Christ today.
Lift Him up by telling of His wonder deeds.
Share His grace and mercy with others.
Let me love the Savior more than the saving,
Let me love the Giver more than the giving. (a song on the radio)

Hey ya'll,
Have a great Memorial Day. Let us remember to pray for our military men and women, along with our military leaders as they make decisions today. I know we are all so grateful for their service and sacrifice. Also, remember to pray for their families.

Today, I will be packing for our trip up northeast. Tuesday, we are off to Rhode Island to visit those 6 grandchildren, daughter and husband. Woohoo! I can't wait. It's been 2 years since seeing them. However, I have been trying to write posts ahead of time, so keep checking here this week. I can use my phone to post if necessary.

So have a restful day and a good time with your family.
Thanks for studying Psalms with me, friend. We've been learning a lot together.
In the meantime, wait on the Lord Jesus. He is our hope and our shield. (Ps. 33:21)

In Christ,
Linda

Keep Walking by Faith

O. T. #1211  "Keep Walking by Faith"
May 25, 2018
Psalms 33-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Have you been singing praises unto the Lord our God? David continued on singing through all sorts of situations.
What else does David reveal to us about our God?

• The earth is full of His goodness (good in the wildest sense). (verse 5)
• His counsel (plan, purpose) stands forever. (verse 11)
• His intentions can never be shaken.  (verse 11b)
• Blessed (happy) is the nation whose God is the Lord.  (verse 12)
• He made our hearts and He understands everything we do. (verse 15)
• His eye is upon those who fear Him and hope in His mercy.  (verse 18)
• He rescues them from death and keeps them alive in times of famine. (verse 19)

God never changes His purposes as we have read. His decrees are not frustrated. His designs are always accomplished. since the plans of the Lord are settled and sure in heaven, they are carried out. We may not understand the why's of harsh treatment or death of saints, but we believe He can deliver them. However, for purposes known only to Him, He chooses not to do so. Our trust is in His best plans. He has the final word, not us.

Whatever the Lord's eye can observe, His sovereign hand can preserve. (Falwell)

LET IT GROW

Finishing the chapter, in verses 20-22, we read:
Our soul waiteth for the LORD: He is our help and our shield.
For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name.
Let Thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us, according as we hope in Thee.

Are we waiting upon the Lord our God to change things? Great is His faithfulness.
Is He our help and shield? Stay in His hands, dear one. He has never failed us yet.
Is your heart broken, let your head for it ain't over yet. He can restore broken hearts. Keep walking by faith in Jesus.
Keep hoping in Jesus. He is up to something, so let us look around for Him.
Do we rejoice in Him in spite of whatever? He will get us through this. The Lord is not finished yet.
...According to you faith be it unto you. Matthew 9:29

LET IT GO

Wait and keep walking by faith.
Hope and keep walking by faith.
Trust and keep walking by faith.
Rejoice and keep walking by faith.

Rejoice and Praise

O. T. #1210  "Rejoice and Praise"
May 24, 2018
Psalms 33
Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.  Psalms 33:1

LET IT GLOW

It is highly possible that this psalm was written by David. However, there is no support for it, only characteristic of his songs. It could have been joined with the previous chapter.The word praise is used in the first two verses, so they merited checking out the different definitions in the Hebrew language.

In verse 1, praise refers to a hymn, laudation; in verse 2, praise refers to revere, worship, confess, give thanks.

What are we godly, righteous believers in God challenged to do?

• Rejoice in the Lord.
• Sing for joy to the Lord, for it is fitting for the pure to praise Him. (verse 1)
• Praise Him with the harp, a small, simple instrument of triangular framework, made of wood crossed by 7 strings. (Falwell)
• Sing unto Him with the psaltry or lyre, an instrument of 10 strings.
• Sing unto Him a new song.
• Play skillfully with a loud noise.

We have a Christian radio station at our local Christian university. That is the only station upon which my radio is set. So I praise the Lord before, during, and after writing these lessons. Sometimes I even make up different words to songs as they are played, as a praise to Jesus. What a joy and encouragement it has been throughout the almost 21 years we have lived here.
Sounds to me that it is acceptable to play hymns and praise songs on instruments in worship during our church service.
Do we praise God throughout the day? Are we an example to our children and grandchildren?
A lot of our praise choruses are taken from the psalms.

Paul told the church at Philippi to Rejoice in the Lord always: again I say rejoice. (4:4)


LET IT GROW

Falwell noted it as being a call to lively and joyous to praise to God for His glorious attributes and work.

What are the attributes and works of God which the psalmist mentions here? (NLT)

• The Word of the Lord holds true and we can trust everything He does. (verse 4)
• All His works are done in truth.
• He loves whatever is just and good; HIs unfailing love fills the earth. (verse 5)
• As Creator, He merely spoke and the heavens were made; by His breath the stars were born. (verse 6)
• He assigned the seas its boundaries and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs. (verse 7)
• He spoke and it was done; He commanded and it stood fast. (verse 9)
• He frustrates the plans of the nations and thwarts all their schemes. (verse 10)
• But the Lord's plans stand firm forever; His intentions can never be shaken. (verse 11)

LET IT GO

May I always rejoice in You, my awesome Savior.
I am trusting in my King whose plans will be forever and carried out His way.
May Your creation praise You, Creator.

Giving "The Eye"

O. T. #1209  "Giving 'The Eye'"
May 23, 2018
Psalms 32
I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye. Psalms 32:8

LET IT GLOW

This is a song of thanksgiving which David composed for the forgiveness of his sins. Blessings come when we experience God's forgiveness of our sin. In fact, in the first couple of verses he speaks of being happy when our sin is forgiven and the Lord does not hold it against us.

Sin cannot be hidden; it must be faced, confessed, and openly dealt with. (Falwell)

Paul quoted these two verses in Romans 4:7 and 8. He says that the man whom God imputed righteousness (treated as if it were theirs) without works is blessed. Also, faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. (verses 6 and 9)

David confessed his sins of adultery with Bathsheba and murder of her husband after the prophet Nathan confronted him.

Do we have the joy of a clean slate? Are we making it a habit of confessing our sins daily? Are we agreeing with God about our sin? That is confession.


LET IT GROW

Lydia Brownback says in her book, sing a New Song, A Woman's Guide To The Psalms:

Repentance restores us to God's paths, and it humbles our hearts to follow His ways. God is faithful to keep His covenant promise never to let us go, and for that reason He doesn't leave us to ourselves. He is faithful to stop His straying people in their fleeing tracks.

Read our key verse. Are we listening to God's instructions? Are we looking for His teachings in the way we should go? Is God guiding us with His eye?
Like a parent who gives our child "the eye," and he obeys, do we as children of God?
We need not speak a word and our child understands our intentions with "the eye." Sometimes it means for them to stop what they are doing. Staring long enough can bring submission. Other times it may be an approval eye.
God will give us the best counsel. Then He observes whether we take it or not. Should we ask for God to reveal His will to us when we do not intend to follow it if it is not to our liking? If only we ask and obey.

LET IT GROW

Ask forgiveness of my sins, naming them.
Receive the joy it brings to be forgiven.
Listen and learn the way to go.
Watch for His eye.

Showering with Praise

O. T. #1208  "Showering with Praise"
May 22, 2018
Psalms 31-Part 3
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of Thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.  Psalms 31:20

LET IT GLOW

Our ten year old granddaughter is finishing up playing softball this season. Our son is the team's coach. He showers each girl with praise whether they struck out or made a home run. I am so proud of him. (One opponent's coach continuously yelled at his girls batting, if they failed to swing or had a strike out. How sad for the girls on his team. They took a fun game much too seriously.)

Again, David is acknowledging the goodness of God. Is it possible to thank God for His goodness  too much or shower Him with too much praise? I think not. His marvelous lovingkindness lasts throughout eternity for us.
David had experienced God's preservation from the sword of Goliath, Saul, and Absalom. He  had encountered the provisions of God in the caves, woods, fields, and palace. David was protected from the hand of Saul and sin. What about us? Have we undergone the preservation, provisions, and protection of God in our short lifetime?

Those believers who have fear, reverence, for God and trust in Him can experience the goodness of God personally. Remember, His goodness means good in the wildest sense. It is beyond all we could think of in our wildest dreams. Let us be careful and not get caught up into thinking this goodness is only evident in material or financial ways. It includes spiritual blessings, His presence, forgiveness, love, hope, grace, mercy. Do I hear an amen?

Now, shall we look at the rest of this chapter, beginning with verse 19? David's prayer turns to praise and the great goodness of God.

• God will hide us in the secret of His presence from the pride of man. (verse 20) We shall be so hidden with Christ in God, that our enemies shall not be able to find us out. To such a hiding-place Satan himself dare not approach. There the pride of man cannot come. (Clarke Commentary)

God will keep us secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues. Pavilion is a hut, tabernacle, tent. God will keep us in the innermost part of His tent, where we will have communion and union with God. Is this the Holy of Hollies in the Old Testament Temple for David?

• God as shown us His marvelous kindness in a strong city. (verse 21) We find His protection.
• God hears our cries and supplications. (verse 22)

Do we desire to be in the secret of God's presence, to be secretly in His pavilion, encountering His marvelous kindness? This morning I stopped and thought how humbling it is to think our Holy and Almighty God will allow us to come into His presence. I asked to be covered with the righteous blood of Jesus, for I am a sinner, needing to commune with Him.

LET IT GROW

Looking at the last two verses, what does David tell us saints to do?

• Love the LORD, for He protects those who are loyal, faithful to Him.
• Beware, He harshly punishes the arrogant.
• Be strong and courageous, all of you who put your trust in the LORD!

Ya'll, it is narrowed down to loving God, be strong in faith, and have courage to continue on until we at last see Him in all His glory. We will stand in awe, saying, "Great is the Lord Jesus!" (as the song goes) However, I tend to think that I will be on my knees or face worshiping Jesus when we meet face to face. Until then...

LET IT GO

Love God with all my heart.
Dwell in His secret place in prayer.
Listen as I converse with the King of kings and Lord of lords-Jesus.
Thank Him for His marvelous kindness.
Shower my god with praise.
Shower others with praise.

A Broken Vessel

O. T. #1207  "A Broken Vessel"
May21, 2018
Psalms 31-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Desperate times call for desperate measures. Urgent troubles bring urgent prayer. David pours out his heart to God, the rock and fortress of his life.
In continuation of some phrases David said:
Thou hast redeemed me. (verse 5)
Oh LORD, God of Truth.
I trust in the LORD. (verse 6)
I will be glad and rejoice in Thy mercy. (verse 7)
Thou art my God. (verse 14)
My times are in Thine hand. (verse 15)
Make Thy face to shine upon Thy servant. (verse 16)

God rescued David, not because he deserved it, but through the grace of God. Non of us are worthy of His love. We cannot do anything to earn it, but it is the fact that God is love and that is His character. Aren't we glad? We can rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.

LET IT GROW

After Mom passed away, I was the one to sort through the house. I had put some odds and ends of cups and saucers in a box on the porch, before taking them to storage. I left them there too long. Little did I know a storm would come the next week, blow them off the porch, and break them into pieces, scattering them in the yard. That caused me to be heart broken. They could have been given to the granddaughters. It was too late, though. One bad decision and a precious thing was destroyed. David felt like that, too.
So many things can break us-broken marriage, broken relationships, a diseased child, loss of job, loss of house. Will we look up for the answer? Will we turn to Jesus or to things for comfort?

In his prayer, David sounds like he is really down, feeling hopeless, doesn't he? In verse 12, he admits, I am like a broken vessel, referring to something only to be thrown away. Now look in verse 13 at what he has been facing: slander, rumors of many; fear on every side; enemies conspired against him;. David has been waiting to get his respect back as the king of Israel.  Do you feel his hopelessness and helplessness as he feels hated and rejected? Can we feel his struggle, pain that is real?
 It often takes situations to bring us down, break our strong will, before we look up in desperation to God. If we stop to think about it, our enemies do not have the upper hand, our God does. He will have the last word, folks.

We know God cares for us and has our circumstances under His control, yet we need the encouragement of others as they feel our pain. Are we alert to those going through hurtful times? Will we take a moment to listen, hug and be their arms of love God wants to wrap around them.

LET IT GO

Trust, be glad and rejoice in God's love and mercy.
Bring my brokenness to Jesus.

Deliver Speedily

O. T. #1206  "Deliver Speedily "
May 18, 2018
Psalms 31


LET IT GLOW

Either this psalm was written by David during his escape from the treachery of the men of Keilah
(1 Samuel 23) or his running from Absalom his son. Even during a time of deep distress, David places his confidence in the LORD his God. We read of David's problems, prayers, and praises.
Again, he walks a road that takes him from anguish to assurance. His God is sufficient and so is ours.

David needed deliverance, not tomorrow, but this day he composed this song. He prayed for God to stop those who were unjustly causing trouble. He needed deliverance speedily. David's request was based upon what he knew about God's character:

• deliverer that is speedily (verses 1-2)
• a strong rock (verse 2)
• a house of defense
• fortress (verse 3)
• leader and guide
• Truth (verse 5)
• blessing (verse 21)
• marvelous kindness
• hears prayers of His children (verse 22)
• overrules the wicked (verses 17-18)
• great goodness (verse 19)
• rescuing His saints (verse 23)

How reassuring it is for us whenever we read that list. Each day holds something different for us, but we can call upon the name of the Lord in our time of need, which varies daily. Which are you in need of today? I am in need of a leader and guide as we make important decisions. You may be in need of  God's help in a different way. There are times we only have time to whisper a quick prayer "He me Jesus". And He hears and works it out for our good and His glory.

LET IT GROW

Here are some phrases made by David which can encourage us:
In Thee, O LORD, do I put my trust. (verse 1)
Deliver me speedily. (verse 2)
For Thy name's sake, lead me and guide me. (verse 3)
Thou art my strength. (verse 4)
Into Thine hand I commit my spirit. (verse 5)

Did you recognize that last one? Jesus said it while dying on the cross. (Luke 23:46)
Jesus simply yielded up His soul, committing it to God. Thus, He "offered Himself without spot to God." (Hebrews 9:14) MacArthur

Into whose hands do we commit our spirit-employer, bank, organizations? Or Jesus?
Before we die, even today, can we commit our spirit to God to be used for His purpose? Use us Lord to help others experience Your love and forgiveness, grace and mercy.

LET IT GO

Jesus loves me, this I know.
I will walk this road of life by faith in Jesus, committing my spirit to His use.

Joy in the Morning

O. T. #1205  "Joy in the Morning"
May 17, 2018
Psalms 30
For His anger endureth but a moment; in His favor is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.  Psalms 30:5

LET IT GLOW

This Psalm was written when David dedicate Araunah's threshing floor to be the site of the new Temple and after God stopped the great plague He had used to discipline David (1 Chronicles 211-22:6) Seven thousand Israelis died because of David's sin. The serious illness mentioned in verses 2-3 may refer to an illness David experienced or to the plague itself. (Life Application Study Bible)

As we walk along the journey of life, we all encounter various foes, trials, pain, sorrows, consequences of  sin, and Satan. David encounter those as well.  Like a bucket drawing water from a well, David was pulled from the mire of tribulation. (verses 1-3)

In reflection, David recalls upon when the Lord walked with him:

• rescue from enemies, (verse 1)
• restore health, (verse 2)
• joy-giving, (verse 5)
• restoring humility from pride, (verse 6-7)
• saving from death due to a plague in David's folly. (verses 8-11)

Have we endured such rescues, healing, joy, humiliation, and saving from the Lord Jesus as well?
Then we have reasons to sing His praises, exult Him, thank Him, and share what great things He has done for us.

LET IT GROW

Had any nights of weeping? Things press on our mind so hard that we can't sleep, and as women, we end up crying in frustration. Or we loose a loved one and sob all night at their leaving us forever while in this world. Or we don't know which way to turn and tears flow.

Here are some comforting words from Brother Jerry Falwell:

Weeping all night is common for the restless heart. But when we lay those burdens at the feet of Jesus, the Son of Righteousness, joy comes in the morning to relieve us of that burden.

1 Peter 5:7 says, Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.

Job 33:26 tells us He shall pray unto God, and he will be favorable unto Him: and he shall see His face with joy: for He will render unto man His righteousness.

 Jesus experienced being forsaken by His Father God whenever the sins of the world were laid upon Him. Because of that, we never will. After being dead 3 days, the most joyful morning in all history came whenever Jesus arose from the grave! Friends, our nights of weeping will end in morning joy. Is there a better promise?

God did a wonderful thing in David's life. His mourning was turned to dancing. Mercy and gladness came. David could not keep silent, for he had to burst out in a praise song to his God. Yes! That day will come for us. Hold on a little bit longer. Hold tight to Jesus. May we find favor and life in Jesus Christ today.

LET IT GO

Call upon Jesus when in need.
Hold tightly to the Joy-Giver Jesus.

Thurnder Storms

O. T. #1204  "Thunder Storms"
May 16, 2018
Psalms 29

LET IT GLOW

Give glory to the Lord that is due His name. Worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness. David begins this song with these two phrases. He is recognizing the supremacy of God over the heavenly beings, the forces of nature, and humanity, according to John MacArthur.

Keep in mind, the pagan neighbors of Israel worshiped false gods, who they thought controlled various parts of nature. Those idols and so called beings had no more control than I do. They just would not surrender to Jehovah. The pagans had to be in control of everything, didn't they? Don't you suppose Satan was behind it?

Did you notice David called the "mighty ones" to give homage to the Great God? Even those rulers with power, having royal blood in their veins, were to recognize the Sovereign God and give Him glory and honor. His Majesty deserves to be worshiped in the beauty of His holiness.

Do we understand that the God to whom we pray is righteous, pure, without sin, holy and sovereign? That is humbling.

LET IT GROW

During the night I was awaken by loud, rolling, booming thunder and bright lightning. It was close to the house. So I made myself get up and unplug my computer, then sleepily I returned back to bed. Praying for protection for us, my son's family, and the cows, I fell asleep. It must have been the peace of God, for I was not pacing from window to window as usual. Our God is Lord of the storm. That I have learned. However, sometimes I allow the storm to make me nervous, but then there are times it's okay. He's got it under control.

Thundereth is our English expression of the phrase the voice of Lord, qol Yahweh (long o) in Hebrew, is manifested in a deep sensitivity toward the voice of the Lord in the storm. (Falwell)

Job 37:13 says, He causeth it to come, whether for correction, or for His land, or for mercy.

Shall we take a look at the many things that are effected by the Lord's voice? These things result due to His speaking. The reasons may be to correct us in our sin and bring us back to Him, for His land's benefit, such as burning the forests, or to show us mercy in our storms.

What does David say about the voice of the Lord?

• It is upon many waters. These waters are stored up in the clouds high in the air, echoes over the seas.
• It is powerful and full of majesty. When we hear thunder, we should adore and honor God in His omnipotence.
• It breaks cedars. Lightning can strike trees, split them, and break them down.
• It makes the mountains tremble like a calf skipping. thunder vibrates among the mountains.
• It divides the flames of fire. It strikes like lightning bolts.
• It shakes the wilderness. The barren wilderness quakes.
• It makes the hinds to calf. Birth of animals result.

The LORD reigns as king forever. He gives His people strength. He blesses them with peace.

Amen! Glory to Almighty God, El Shaddah!

Jesus quieted a storm in Mark 4. He can walk on the storm or sleep in it, too.  When our storm is raging, and we cry out to Jesus, He is there to see us through, whether He stops it or not. What if His blessings come through raindrops and His healing comes through tears? What if trials of this life are His mercies in discuise?

LET IT GO

Listen for the voice of God in my life and surroundings.
Hold onto the Master of the wind and the rain and storms of life.

Who is Your Strength?

O. T. #1203  "Who is Your Strength?"
May 15, 2018
Psalms 28

LET IT GLOW

Jerusalem is recognized as Israel's capital by its allies, some 70 years after becoming a state. We watched the historical event of the opening of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem. (I'm writing this on Monday.) Throughout Israel's history, it has been the chosen city of the Lord God. As the Israeli  President mentioned in his speech, it is the place where Abraham came, David set up the Tabernacle of worship, and Solomon built the Temple. He mentioned words found in Zechariah 8:3, ...and Jerusalem shall be called the city of truth.
Wow! It is an exciting time. How exciting to connect the words of a prophet who was with the first group to return from the Babylonian exile, Zechariah, with today. Please continue to pray for Israel, God's chosen people.

Getting to our chapter, it was probably another psalm written during the time of Absalom's rebellion against his father David as king of Israel.

In his prayer, David declares God to be his rock (refuge, strength). David asks God to hear his supplications while he cries out and lifts hands toward the holy oracle, inner sanctuary of the Holy Place. He asks God to deal righteously  with those who are wicked.

Look at verses 7-8 with me.
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise Him.
The LORD is my strength, and He is the saving strength of His anointed.

Is Jesus our strength, our rock, our shield? Does our heart trust in Him as David did? Will we rejoice and sing His praises? Is He our saving strength?

LET IT GROW

David prays for God to continue what He has already been doing-saving and blessing His inheritance; feed them as a shepherd; lift them up forever. Israel will experience this through Jesus Christ, the Son of David. He also asks God to deal righteously with those who are wicked.

God amazingly considers His people a most precious possession. (Deuteronomy 7:6-16; Ephesians 1:18-19)   (MacArthur)

Do we pray for our pastors as they feed us spiritually, to have wisdom and understanding as they lead our churches?
How amazing our God is! We see Him so amazing things for His people.


LET IT GO

Make Jesus my rock, shield, and strength.
Rejoice and sing His praises.

Land of the Living

O. T. #1210  "Land of the Living"
May 14, 2018
Psalms 27:Part 4
I had fainted unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. 
Psalms 27:13

LET IT GLOW

Land of the living. Are we living here? Oh sure we are walking and talking and living. But how are we living while we are living? I'm talking about living like zombies, a runner from one activity or responsibility to another without enjoying our time while there. Do we get up in the morning dreading another day of work, or do we enjoy what we are doing? Are we taking time to speak with those we meet along our journey, or even take a few moments to listen to a child, a senior, a hurting friend? Giving a smile and a hug encourages more than a dozen red roses. Are we just existing, living for the weekend or summer or retirement, letting life pass us by? May we find that plain path God has for us, His right path, and really live in the land of the living this week. That is my challenge, too, friend.

What was David asking of the Lord in verses 11-14?

• Teach me Thy way (a course of life, a trodden road, a journey) O LORD.
• Lead me in a plain (come near, to approach, consent, worship) path (a well trodden road); a right path.
• My enemies are waiting for me.
• Don't let me fall into their hands.
• They accuse me of things I have never done.
• With every breath they threaten me with violence.

David is confident that he will see the Lord's goodness while he is in the land of the living. Although he was going through a trial, David was trusting God to see him through it. Remember, goodness is good in the wildest sense. God can bless us beyond all we could desire and think.

Malachi 3:10 says, See if I will not...pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.

Are we walking on the right path-the one God wants us to be on? Are we enjoying living in the land of the living, today? Have you seen God's goodness lately?

LET IT GROW

Wait on the LORD:
be of good courage,
and He shall strengthen thine heart:
wait, I say, on the LORD.

Waiting can be one of the hardest things we do. Don't we feel better if we are doing something? However, waiting forces us to rely on God. Are you in a waiting mode. Perhaps your years of specific praying have not happened. Maybe a loved one is still living with a disease; financial problems mount up and not resolved, relationships are severed without a hope of mending. Are you hanging by a string?

David waited to be king of Israel while crazy Saul hunted him down to kill David. David tells us to wait, be brave, have courage, wait patiently on the Lord. His willingness to wait resulted in the Messiah coming as his descendant.We know God's timing is best. His way is best. His path is difficult. Through it all, we can enjoy living among the living because we believe that we will see the goodness of the Lord. It will turn out beyond our wildest dream, dear one. Believe.

LET IT GO

Wait, believe, wait on Jesus to work it out.
Stay on the plain path that He has me on.; remain faithful while on it.
Live with joy among the living.
Have courage to endure whatever.
Let Jesus strengthen my heart while waiting.

Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day weekend, Ladies!

I hope you are setting aside some time to share your love with your mother, grandmother, children. Let us remember those who have empty arms, mothers serving in our military, and missionaries in prayer.

In the Scriptures, Ruth showed her love for Naomi, her mother in law, by accompanying her back home, then gathering grain for them to eat. She listened to Naomi's advice, and ended up marrying Boaz. They had a child, Obed, who had a son named Jesse, who had several sons, one of which became king of Israel, David. Now that was a blessing of God. What joy it would bring to have such a great grandson.

Then we read of Jesus taking care of his mother, Mary, even when dying on the cross. He asked John to treat her as his mother. Love between a mother and child is precious.

A loved mother and grandmother,
Linda

Sacrifices of Joy When not Joyful

O. T. #1209 "Sacrifices of Joy When not Joyful"
May 11, 2018
Psalms 27-Part 3
And now shall mine head be lifted up above imine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in His tabernacle sacrifices of joy: I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.
Psalms 27:6

LET IT GLOW

Everyone feeling joyful today? Praise the Lord! Hmm. Maybe not. Oh, we have our days, right? Life happens and we are not so joyful. Yep, been there. That's okay. David was not always joyful and he was a man after God's own heart. He was human. Did you know he offered the sacrifices of joy when he was not joyful?

David spent about 12 years running from one enemy after another before he became king of Israel (mostly Saul). He ran from his own son who wanted to kill David and take his throne, too. David is surrounded by his enemies.  I dare say that innumerable accounts of people have found comfort and encouragement from reading his songs, the Psalms written mostly during those times. Think of how many have benefited just since the King James Bible was written in 1611. Yet, David had no idea that would happen. He was only writing songs to his God from his heart. I can see him sitting alone, playing his harp, worshiping God on a mountain or by a stream or with his sheep or in a cave.

Although David's situation was grave indeed, he has total confidence in God's ability to protect him. (M. Henry)

Here is a gold nugget I found in this chapter, in our key verse: David desires to offer the sacrifices of joy, as well as sing praises unto the Lord in His Tabernacle (back in Jerusalem).

What are the sacrifices of joy?
Sacrifices  refers to the victim or act of sacrifice; slaughter, flesh of an animal; offering.
Joy refers to clamor, acclamation of joy or a battle-cry; clangor of trumpets; alarm; jubilee; loud noise; rejoicing; shouting.

Using those definitions, are the sacrifices of joy made when we don't feel like rejoicing, but we do it anyway? Are we the one who is being sacrificed, by denying self, taking up our cross, dying to self and allowing Jesus to use us? We do things His way, not ours. When we are down, we can sing praises to our Lord for His salvation and provisions and love for us. Can we so be grateful for His sacrifice of Himself on the cross that we can shout for joy, amidst the troubles? (Maybe we can sing at least.) We have to let go of the chains that hold us down, giving it all to Jesus. It ain't easy ya'll. I struggled many a times. But that is when we find freedom to forgive and love the one who has hurt us. We can overcome failure and start again with Jesus. It is easy to praise Him when things are going great or okay and the sun is shining on us. It's when the clouds have us down in the mud that is hard. 


LET IT GROW

Since David's confidence was in God, what was he asking of Him?

• The Lord hear his prayer; (verse 7)
• God would be merciful and answer him; (verse 7)
• God invites David to talk with Him and he accepts; (verse 8)
• For God to not turn His back on David; (verse 9)
• To not reject His servant in anger, for God had always been David's helper. (verse 9)
• Don't leave or abandon him. (verse 9)
• Hold him close, even when his parents abandon him, probably die. (verse 10)

Come and talk with Me.
Lord, I am coming.

David was always in God's presence. He was the anointed king. We are in need, Jesus has His arms wide open, ready to receive us with a bear hug. It is up to us to run to Him. He does not leave us nor forsake us. Glory to God in the Highest! He is able and can do whatever. He is the Great I AM!

LET IT GO

Offer the sacrifices of joy to God, all the time.
Run to Jesus when I am in need.
Sing His praises today.

In every victory, let it be said of me, my source of hope, my source of strength, is in Christ alone.
Grace, grace, God's grace.

Confidence

O. T. #1208  "Confidence"
May 10, 2018
Psalms 27-Part 2
One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple.
Psalms 27:4

LET IT GLOW

When David took flight from his son Absalom, who desired the king's throne, David left Jerusalem and the Tabernacle. During this time, in what was David confident?

Confident means to trust, be sure, make to hope.

What is David sure of, putting his trust in, and making his hope?  Verses 2 and 3 tell us he is not going to fear when:

• evil people come to devour him;
• wicked enemies and foes come to attack him; or
• a mighty army surrounded David.

Then those will stumble and fall, David's heart will not  be afraid, and he will remain confident in God. Are we confident in God? Is our confidence in Him? Are we trusting Him to have answers to our questions? Is our hope in Him who has solutions to our problems? David's was. We know from previously reading about this situation, that Absalom did not defeat David and take his throne as king of Israel.

David feels safe, for God is his shelter and hiding place. Grace will make him easy, as well as be his stronghold and strong tower.

Matthew Henry's Commentary encourages us:

The gracious presence of God, His power, His promise, His readiness to hear prayer, the witness of His Spirit in the hearts of his people-these are the secret of His tabernacle, and in these the saints find cause for that holy security and serenity of mind in which they dwell at ease.

LET IT GROW

If there was one thing David would have asked of God, this would be it, found in verse 4.

1. That he may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of his life. It was not for the good entertainment, feasts, music or singing that were there.
2. He desired to behold the beauty of the Lord. Holiness and goodness is His beauty.
3. And to inquire in His temple-pray. Instructions from God is found through prayer and the Word.

What was the one thing needful and the good part which Mary found while sitting at Christ's feet? His Word. It was not the serving that Martha did.
Are we spending time sitting at the feet of Jesus?

LET IT GO

Be sure my confidence is in the Lord Jesus Christ and His Word.
Worship in His Temple, church.
Behold His beauty, holiness and goodness.
Pray with faith.

Balancing Ups and Downs of Life

O. T. #1207  "Balancing Ups and Downs of Life"
May 9, 2018
Psalms 27
The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?  Psalms 27:1

LET IT GLOW

How did David deal with his fear and trouble? How did he balance the ups and downs of life? Was there anyone of whom he should be afraid, whenever David's confidence and salvation was in God?
Who is David's light and salvation? Verse 1 tells us the LORD is. This is the very first thing David says in this chapter, in this song. He made it personal, too.

In the Hebrew language, LORD is Yehovah (yeh-ho-vaw'), which is the Jewish national name of God, Jehovah, the Lord; it means Self-Existent or Eternal; light means illumination, happiness;
salvation is defined as to be free, defend, deliver, rescue, be safe, save, get victory.

David is telling us that Jehovah is his light of redemption in contrast to the darkness of condemnation. The primary issue in David's life was to live in God's presence and by His purpose.
(MacArthur)

David may have written this psalm during the time of his flight from Absalom. David was not going to fear, for he had total confidence in God.
Paul reminded us, in Romans 8:31, If God is for us, who can be against us?
So when we put things in their right perspective, God is in control, we are in His hands, nothing is going to happen to us without it first toing through His hands. Right?

After Jesus did not condemn the adulterous woman, he told the Pharisees and scribes, I am the light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Are we sharing the Light of Life and the Light of the world-Jesus?


LET IT GROW


The MacArthur Bible Commentary describes this chapter:
The psalmist, in the presence of his Lord, engages in three conversations that help him balance the ups and downs of life:
1. He converses with himself about privileges (verses 1-6)
2. He converses with the Lord about problems (verses 7-12)
3. He converses with Himself about perseverance (verses 13,14).


The second part of verse 1 includes David saying the LORD is his strength of his life. Strength refers to a fortified place, a defense, a fort, rock, stronghold.

Of whom should David be afraid? Anyone we are afraid of in our life? With God as our defense, rock, then we should not be afraid of anyone, right? When we encounter trouble, do we keep worshiping God, having Him as our focus? Focusing on God's greatness can help us through the ups and downs of life. Fear does not have to conquer us, since God can conquer anything we encounter.

LET IT GO

The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Jehovah is the strength of my life.
Stop being afraid and trust my light and salvation.

Thanksgiving in May

O. T. #1206  "Thanksgiving in May"
May 8, 2018
Psalms 26-Part 2
That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all Thy wondrous works.
Psalms 26:7

LET IT GLOW

You know what? Thanksgiving does not have to be limited to November. We can thank our Creator, Good Shepherd, and Redeemer any time. So at the top of my lungs I sing hallelujah. I am not ashamed to praise Your name Jesus. I will let the world know I love You and thank You.

Throughout the years of walking through the Bible with you, I have given my testimony of  salvation. For any new comers, I will tell of God's wondrous works in my life.
I was 16 when a friend of mine died in a car wreck. That was when I realized that death can come at any age, and if I died at that moment, I was not headed to heaven. In younger years, I had attended Sunday School, so I knew who Jesus was. I didn't know all the proper words to say, but God saw my repentant heart and saved me that night in my bed. Friend, if you have not asked Jesus to forgive your sins and be your Savior, it is not too late. His loving arms are waiting for you, open wide.

Another part of my testimony includes my saying that God has extended my life twice. However, it is now my belief that it was not His will for my life to end at those times, not that He extended it. Once was after surgery, when I consumed too much morphine, causing me to stop breathing, lips turning blue. Doctors revived me. (My family doctor of internal medicine, was in the hospital at the time. It was not just a happenstance. The other time was after a colonoscopy. That afternoon, I could not keep liquids in, so they were not replenished, resulting in dehydration. Because of that,  minerals essential for the heart to continue beating were depleting. At the emergency room an IV gave me what was needed. At the time, I did not realize how close to death I was. Again, I escaped death.  God has perform His marvelous works in my life, to keep me alive. I am so thankful to Him!
Can you understand why I proclaim God's wondrous works in my life?


LET IT GROW
.
Then, last year, my doctor diagnosed me with another autoimmune disease. Medication has helped Sjogrens and  Crohns. My body is battling osteoporosis again, so I take another medication for it to strengthen my bones. My God is so awesome and wondrous are His works!

Wondrous means marvelous, to be or make great, miracles.
Works is to labor, reward.


So many things for which I am thankful. Not only physical healing, but also spiritual healing.
What has God done for you lately? Have you experienced any wondrous works of God in your life? Will you take a time to share them?

LET IT GO

Thanks be to God for His good in the wildest sense., His shield of love.
Singing His praises all the day long.
So grateful and thankful for all You have done Jesus, and for who You are.

Clean my Reins

O. T. #1205 "Clean my Reins"
May 7, 2018
Psalms 26

LET IT GLOW

I thought the thing used to turn animals like horses in the desired direction is called reins. It is. Reins consist of long straps connected to the bit in the horse's mouth. Pull back on the reins and the horse should stop; turn it left or right and the animal will go that direction. That is only one meaning of the word. However, the Bible has another meaning for the word rein. Read on to find out what it is.

Here we read of David's plea for examination and vindication by the Lord on the basis of his avowed integrity. What is integrity?

Integrity refers to completeness, innocence, perfect, upright, simplicity.

Did you know that David was a type of Christ in Scripture? Jesus Christ is referred to as the Son of David. His lineage can be found in Matthew 1. Christ was made a reproach of men, had all manner of evil said against Him.
As for David, king Saul was persuing and persecuting him. He had been falsely accused of  wanting to kill this king of Israel. both Christ and David were both innocent of charges against them.
David asks to be judged in his own integrity because he has done all God asked. He has trusted in God, walked in God's commandments, and  was free from the offense of slander of which he is being charged. David is asking the Lord, who knows his inner motives, to vindicate and protect him from his enemies.

Jump down to verse 11 and we read of David using the same word, integrity. This time, he asks God to redeem him and be merciful unto him.

In verse 2, David asks God to examine, prove, and try him.

Try my reins and my heart. ((verses 2)

Reins, in the Hebrew language, refers to two things-the kidneys (as an essential organ) or the mind (as the interior self). I tend to think David was referring to the latter, his mind. :)

Here is our challenge today: Would we ask God to try our reins, read our mind? Wow! Not me. I'm sure He would be quite displeased at times with what He would find, yet He has constant access to our mind. Oh, yeah, that is right. I don't know about you, but it is time for me to clean my reins. Be aware of what I see and think today.


LET IT GROW

Liberty Bible Commentary says David embarks on a sixfold enumeration of his integrity:

1. God's lovingkindness is before David's eyes.
2. David had walked in God's truth. This truth is God's Law. Only a person who has experienced God's grace can make such a claim.
3. He did not sit with vain people.
4. Neither would he go with dissemblers, hypocrites.
5. David hated the congregation of evildoers. Those who have experienced the grace of God in salvation must hate such gatherings and assemblies and have no part in them.
6. David will not sit with the wicked. He sits at the table of the Great King.

Can we say that David watched what he was doing, where he was going, with whom he was associating? We would be wise to do the same, huh?

LET IT GO

Strive to be a person of integrity, doing what is right in God's eyes.
Clean my reins, mind; tell the devil to leave when bad thoughts pop in.
Take notice with whom I am keeping company. Make sure it is believers with integrity.

He Chooses and Uses

O. T. #1204  "He Chooses and Uses"
May 4, 2018
Psalms 25
What man is he that feareth the LORD? Him shall He teach in the way that He shall choose.
Psalms 25:12

LET IT GLOW

What lessons have you learned lately? God uses whatever He chooses to teach us about Him. There are innumerable life lessons for us while living here on this planet. But the best ones are those from God. I have things that need correcting and changed within me. Yet, I am not to yield to the world, but to my Savior. David learned some lessons and shared them with us through the psalms.

David is not only lift his hands and eyes in prayer, but he also lifts his soul. He desires to draw closer to Jehovah. What David desires for himself he desires for those who love God.

How does David describe the Lord God?

• as his personal God, in whom he trusts (verse 2);
• the God of salvation (verse 5);
• He shows tender mercies (compassion) (verse 6)
• and lovingkindnesses (unfasiling love, good deeds);
• He is good (good in the wildest sense) (verse 8)
• and upright (straight, just);
• All His paths are mercy and truth (stability, trustworthiness, faithful) (verse 10);
• teaches in the way He chooses (verse 12).

Verse 12 really slapped me and woke me up, friends. It spoke to me. God teaches us in the way He chooses. Did you get it? God chooses the trials, troubles, problems, and even blessings to teach us about Him and His ways. When we loose loved ones, He is our comfort. In our sickness, He is our healer and sustainer. When we are in need of a job, He is our provider. In our temptations to sin, He is our strength and overcomer. When we feel unloved, He is love overflowing our heart. When people are mean to us, He is good in the wildest sense. When we are down, He is our song (psalm). We see His mercies as we realize things could be worse. When we are overwhelmed by life, He is our salvation and way to heaven, our future.

God is so wonderful. He teaches me new things every day. Even at my age, I still have lessons to learn. More about Jesus would I know. I need more grace to others show. More of His loving will obey.

LET IT GROW

In this psalm, David cries out to God for forgiveness of sin and help in the face of affliction.
What does he ask of God?

• Show me Thy ways.
• Teach me Thy paths (a well trodden road).
• Lead me in Thy truth.
• On Thee do I wait all the day long.
• Forget my rebellious sins of youth.
• Forgive my transgressions and many sins.
• Show those who fear the Lord the path that should be chosen.
• Feel my pain, see my trouble, forgive all my sins.
• Protect and rescue me from my many enemies.
• Don't let me be disgraced.
• May integrity and honesty protect me.
• Ransom Israel from all its troubles.

The paths which God has for us varies from person to person. Notice, those paths are a well trodden road. Saints have walked on them before us. They survived. We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses; they were victorious. So let us dust off the dust and wash out the mud from our clothes when we fall down on this road of faith. Let us ask for a lending hand from our friends and Lord Jesus to pull us out of the ruts and chug holes whenever we get stuck in sin. Let us encourage others as they go through the hard stuff that we have gone through.

Surrender, not fight against the hard things. Let them teach us what we need to know about God. After all, He can move mountains, is mighty to save, conquered the grave, gives us the wildest good in every sense, has His best available to us. We can do this, come out of the fire as pure as gold. Don't fight the fire. Praise Him while we are in it. It is good that I was afflicted.

LET IT GO

Trust and follow Jesus along the path He chooses to use for my life.
Give Him the glory along the way.
Allow my life to change from ordinary to extraordinary.

Clean Hands and Pure Hearts

O. T. #1203  "Clean Hands and Pure Hearts"
May 3, 2018
Psalms 24

LET IT GLOW

David wrote this psalm. It may have been during the time the Ark of the Covenant was returned to Jerusalem after being at the house of Obed-edom following the conquer of the Philistines. When the priests arrived at the city gates, they may have sang the questions and the following worshipers sang the answers:
1. Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD?
2. Who shall stand in His holy place?
3. Who is this King of glory?

Here are the answers to the questions above:
1. The Tabernacle was the place of worship during David's day. He placed the Ark there, which
     symbolized God's presence. Later, his son Solomon built the Temple upon Mt. Zion in Jerusalem.

2. David is speaking of standing in the Tabernacle, in God's presence. He that has clean hands, a pure
    heart, does not worship idols,  and never tells a lie. Clean hands symbolize pure activities. Our
    thoughts, motives, and deeds should be pure, without habitual sins. Folks, God values
    honesty. Without honesty, a relationship with God is impossible. (He knows all, anyway, so why
     not be real?)
     Clean means innocent, blameless, clear, free, guiltless.
      Pure means to run on errands; an attendant; a waiter (at table or other menial duties); a teacher
      or pastor; a deacon; servant.

3. The King of Glory is the LORD, strong and mighty; the LORD mighty in battle; the LORD of
     Hosts, He is the King of Glory. God's presence in the Tabernacle and Temple was His Shekinah
     glory.

That should bring us to our knees of repentance.
Romans 14:11 says, Every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
Paul is talking about everyone will say Jesus Christ is LORD.


LET IT GROW

Henry and Richard Blackaby, in their devotional book, Experiencing God Day-By-Day, explain:

The priests washed their hands before serving in the Temple to symbolize that only those who were cleansed could worship Holy God. Our sins are cleansed with the blood of Jesus when we ask His forgiveness of them. Our level of intimacy with God depends on our sin separates us from Him or not. When we adjust our life to God's standards and respond to His prompting, we can have a deeper fellowship with Him.

          The closer we get to God, the more obvious even our smallest sins become. We realize
          that we need clean hands and a pure heart before we can get close to Him.

Will we begin our prayers with repentance? Are we trying to resist temptations to sin?
Are our thoughts, words, and deeds pure ? That is when we receive the blessing of God.

LET IT GO

Watch my thoughts, words, and deeds so they are pure and clean.

Ba, I Hear my Shepherd Calling

O. T. #1202  "Ba, I hear my Shepherd Calling"
May 2, 2018
Psalms 23-Part 7

LET IT GLOW

The sheep know their shepherd's voice. My son can walk into another field where he wants his cows to move, call them, and they stop eating, look up, and walk toward him. He doesn't have to blast a horn, yell at them, use a truck behind them to get them to run.. No, they trust his voice, for he has taken care of them many years now. He calls them to greener pastures and beside the water tank. Likewise, when sheep hear their shepherd's voice, they get going to him.

In this chapter, David referred to us as sheep of the Good Shepherd. Living like sheep can bring us peace of mind as we follow the leading of Jesus in our life. The shepherd is unwaveringly devoted to his sheep because they lack everything. They are totally helpless and defenseless animals who cannot care for themselves. They are fearful, easily panicked, who when they are scared, sheep will not lie down to rest. Also, sheep lack a sense of direction and can be easily lost. The helplessness of sheep resembles the helpless state of believers. We, too, need the constant care of our Shepherd, Jesus.

 Now, before moving onto chapter 24, I want to review this chapter using the Hebrew meaning of words which David used. I think it will give us a better perspective. Insert your name, making it personal.

1. When Jesus is my personal Shepherd, Jehovah Rhoi, then I will not want (lack) anything.
2. He maketh (Linda yields) as she lies down in green pasture after eating her fill. God's Word fills my inner soul with Jesus, the Bread of Life.
3. He leadeth (sustains) Linda beside the still waters. Spending time resting in Jesus as He sustains me with Living Water, gives me peace through trials in a hostile world.
4. Jesus restores Linda's soul from sorrow, fear, and straying spiritually.
5. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. These are paths of pleasantness and peace with grace, making me right with God, for His glory. They may not be smooth paths, but it is His will for Linda.
6. I may even walk through the valley of the shadow of death (grave or calamity) while on that path. Loved ones eventually die, leaving me in a valley surrounded by sorrow and despondence. Troubles can overshadow me, sending me deeply in despair.
7. The good news is God is with Linda. His rod and staff comfort, direct, and protect me while I am there.
8. He prepares a table (in HIs Word) before Linda in the presence of her enemies. It is filled with grace, love, forgiveness, peace, even joy and patience, topped with faith and peace.
9. Jesus anoints Linda's head with oil, symbolizing the Holy Spirit filling her. Thus, my cup runs over, as it is filled to the brim overflowing with His blessings.
10. Surely (certainly) goodness (good in the wildest sense, best, loving) and mercy (kindness) shall follow Linda all the days of her life. They pursue me with graces of God to give her lovingkindness.
11. If I dwell in the house of the Lord, then I will have continued communion with Him forever, here and in eternity.

How sweet! Isn't it reassuring, to!

LET IT GROW

Falwell tells that each of us have the four freedoms that President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced:
The are freedom from want and fear; the freedom of speech and religion.

1. Our Shepherd Jesus frees us from want when we abide in His presence.
2. We find rest and freedom from fear as we trust Jesus with every part of our life.
3. As the Holy Spirit fills us, we are free to speak for Him and about Him to others, telling of His goodness.
4. Our freedom of religion signifies that the cross set us free from the sacrificial system of Israel in the Old Testament, covering us with grace in salvation of Jesus.

Just think, friend, as a friend of Jesus, we have goodness in the wildest sense, beyond our wildest dreams or imagination, to follow us forever. In addition to goodness, we have mercy, not receiving what we deserve.
Oh, goodness and mercy, stay with me forever. I want God's best for my life. How about you?


LET IT GO

Thank You, Good Shepherd, for making me Your sheep.
And for goodness and mercy all of my days.
May the Holy Spirit overflow in me.
Listen for my Shepherd's calling and follow.

Good in the Wildest Sense

O. T. #1201  "Good in the Wildest Sense"
May 1, 2018
Psalms 23-Part 6
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.  Psalms 23:6

LET IT GLOW

When we walk through dark valleys of doubt, discouragement, and difficulty, isn't it good to know God is with us? Our Good Shepherd is Sovereign God who assures us that we will not only survive, but we will thrive. Jesus came that we might have abundant life (John 10:10) Doesn't that means we can live in victory no matter what circumstances and challenges life may bring?

In our key verse today, surely is a particle of affirmation-art thou, can, do ye, have it be, there is (are.

What was David so certain that would happen? Goodness and mercy would follow him all the days of his life. What did he mean whenever David used those particular two words?

Goodness  (towb, tobe) refers to good in the wildest sense; beautiful, better, best, loving;
Mercy (checed , khch'sed) means kindness, favor, good deed, merciful.

David was certainly it will be that the loving kindness of God, the best He has to offer us, will follow us all the days of our life. This will happen when we are walking with Jesus, following His will along the path of faith that He directs us on. Goodness and mercy will not only follow us, but they will pursue us. These graces will actively seek us out as we sheep walk with the Great Shepherd. They will be with us in times of feasting and fasting. [Reference: Liberty Bible Commentary]

Now, who doesn't desire goodness and mercy following us all day long, always? Yet, are we following the One who gives them?
Is that wild or what? Today, I am going to look behind me and say" Come on goodness and mercy."

LET IT GROW

What is the last phrase that David says in this chapter? He is going to dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Where he was going to dwell did not refer to a Temple or church, but rather communion with God.  You and I are going to dwell with the Lord Jesus forever in heaven, which indicates our sonship or being His daughter. A servant never abides in the big house.

As a child of God who walks in the path of the Good Shepherd, we are always at home with God. He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us! (Hebrews 13:5)
Whether we are in green pastures, beside the still waters, going through a valley, or in the presence of our enemies, we can be assured that God is always with us.
Is that wild or what?

LET IT GO

Be assured, God is with me in the wildest sense, for my better and with His best to offer.
I need Your goodness and mercy today, Lord Jesus, Your loving kindness.