A Bottle of Tears

O. T. #1252 "A Bottle of Tears"
July 31, 2018
Psalm 56-Part 2
You keep track of all my sorrows.
You have collected all my tears in Your bottle.
You have recorded each one in Your book.
Psalm 56:8 NLT

LET IT GLOW

Haven't we all cried a bucket full of tears? Gone through a box of Kleenexes? Our tears could have filled a bottle? Sure we have. It didn't change the situation, but we sure did feel better afterwards. David must have been to that point in his life.

David is in Gath detained by the Philistines. Now is something to cause one to be afraid. In this fearful circumstance, David trusted in God, (1 Samuel 21, 27-29) In fact, he mentions the word trust three times in this chapter.

Trust means to be confident or sure; hope.

What does David tell to do whenever we are afraid?

• Trusted in God. (verse 3)
• Praise God for His promises in His Word. (verse 4)
• Do not fear what mere mortals can do to us. (verse 4)
• God is on our side. (verse 9)
• He can rescue us from death and keeps our feet from slipping. (verse13)
• Walk in God's presence, in the light of the living. (verse 13)

Doesn't this psalm sound like David trusts God's promise to free him from every hindrance to his walk of faith? David's assurance can be our assurance.

Romans 8:31-31 answers Paul's question, If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things?

Is God our anchor when the storms toss us to and fro, when our sails are torn, as the song goes.
When there is nothing we can do, we can trust God. His love surrounds us.

LET IT GROW

Shed any tears lately? God is so concerned about our pain, that He keeps our tears in a bottle.

Bottle refers to a skin or leather bag for fluids.

He cares intimately for every detail of our life, dear one. He is aware of our sorrows, too. Pour our heart before this Loving God. Cry. God is faithful forever. Let faith arise. Make Him our refuge and strength to carry on. This situation in which we are in will not last forever.

Revelation 21:4 tells us:
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.

This God who snatched David from the jaws of death also preserved him on the path of life. Can He not do the same for us?

LET IT GO
                               ... and cling to God.
                                ... keep believing that God is on my side.
                                ... stay faithful on this path of life that I am walking.

Difficulties and Doves

O. T. #1251  "Difficulties and Doves"
July 30, 2018
Psalm 56

LET IT GLOW

Let me warn you, today's lesson gets deep spiritually, but it teaches us a great truth. Yes, indeed, David's words are like arrows to my heart. I fail and fall short so often, but God's grace is there to pick me up. While in my difficulties, I fail to be as silent as a dove.

Matthew Henry's Commentary has a lot to say about this chapter:

It seems by this, and many other psalms, that even in times of greatest troubles and distress, David never hung his harp upon the willow-trees, never unstrung it or laid it by; but that when his dangers and fears were greatest he was still in tune for singing God's praises. He was in imminent peril when he penned this psalm, at least when he meditated it; yet even then his meditation of God was sweet. There is something peculiar in the title; it is upon Jonath-elem-rechokim, which signifies the silent dove afar off. David was driven from his nest, from the sanctuary, and forced to wander afar off seeking shelter in distant countries; he was like the doves of the valleys, mourning and melancholy; but silent, neither murmuring against God nor railing at the instruments of his trouble; herein a type of Christ, who was as a sheep, dumb before the shearers and a pattern to Christians, who, wherever they are and whatever injuries are done them, ought to be as silent doves.

There is a special title given to six specific psalms-16, 56, 58, 59, 60. They are entitles "A Michtam of David."   This is called a Mitcham means a golden psalm. Also, they are called a Golden Secret, a Golden Mystery, a Messianic Psalm. The mystery is that of Christ, the Messiah to come. David's sufferings are as those which Christ would suffer, yet endure.

Falwell explains: A golden Psalm is derived from the word signifying to hide, indicating the depth of a doctrinal and spiritual truth that is a mystery.

Are we as silent doves among the strangers, enemies, prosecutors?
Let me tell you, friends, this psalm really hit home. After some persecution, I have stopped singing praises to God, my Deliverer, in public. I thought that I was an overcomer, while only taking baby steps walking in this trial. It is time to get up, dust myself off, and get back on the horse, so to speak. When we stay in tune to God, He will give us the song of grace. Keep spreading happiness.

LET IT GROW

The Philistines oppressed David, yet he was like a captive dove in a strange land surrounded by fear and faith. David pleas for God's mercy, for his enemies are about to swallow him up, hounding him, slandering him.

The mercy of God is what we may flee to and trust to, and in faith pray for, when we are surrounded on all sides with difficulties and dangers. (M. Henry)

Verses 3 and 4, in NLT, says, But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. I praise God for what He has promised, I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me?

God always keeps His promises, so what are we afraid of right now? Economic, medical issues, relationships?
Don't skip over this: David called God O Thou Most High.
Our God is above problems, enemies, difficulties, and poopy words.
Are we looking up to Him?

Everything will be ok-if not today, eventually.

LET IT GO

Sing praises to God.
Trust Him.
Don't be afraid.
No more murmurings and railings.

Casting out the Line

O. T. #1250  "Casting Out the Line"
July 27, 2018
Psalm 55
Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and He shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22

LET IT GLOW


It has been years since I have been fishing. Dad taught me how to cast the line out into the water so I could catch a fish. I would release the button that stopped the line from being released, rared back with the pole over my shoulder, and flung it as hard as I could. Sometimes it would plop down in front of me in the water. But, as I got better at the casting, the hook and sinker would go farther out into the water. That was where the fish usually were located.
David learned to cast. It wasn't a fishing pole, but something else which he cast upon the Lord. Read on to see what it was.

Again, it is thought that this chapter is written by David during the rebellion of his son Absalom, which is found in 2 Samuel 15. Also, it is similar to the sufferings of Christ.

In verses 16 and 17, we read of David praying and crying morning, noon, and night unto the Lord God. He trusts in God to rescue him. What else did David do? Our key verse tells us that David:

• Gave his burden to the Lord.
• Believed God would take care of him.
• He trusted that God would not allow His godly children to slip and fall.

Falwell said, "The burden, literally portion, has been assigned to us by the Lord; and He will sustain us in what He assigns,."

Whenever our burdens are too heavy for us to bear, we are to remember that they are not too heavy for the Great Burden Bearer.
1 Peter 5:7 tells us Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.

This burden is a mental thing. I looked up the meaning. Cast refers to throw out, down, away, off, or out.

Folks, we got to get rid of this thing that is weighing us down in our mind. We need to throw it down at the foot of the feet of Jesus. Ask Him to take care of it, for you can't. Then we will have peace of mind. May we always remember that God cares for us. So much that He suffered physically for us, taking our punishment of our sins.
Bless Your holy name, Jesus.


LET IT GROW

Have you noticed a pattern here? I mean, it seems to me that David has sang a lot of these psalms which deal with this subject. Or is just me? Well, it is justifiable since he ran for his life from Saul  about 12 years before Saul died. Aren't we like David? We have things weighing down our mind, perhaps a result of our doings, or someone else's doings.
Will we learn to do as David did-caste our burdens upon the Lord? Talk to Him about it now. He loves us very much.

LET IT GO

Please Jesus, set me free from this burden that has been plaguing me for years.
I cast it upon You.
Thank You for Your lovingkindness.

Betrayed

O. T. #1249  "Betrayed"
July 26, 2018
Psalm 54
But God is my helper; The LORD keeps me alive!  Psalm 54:4 NLT

LET IT GLOW

Betrayal hurts. Trust is broken. We turn away from the person and put up a wall. They aren't going to hurt me again, we think. That is when we need to go to God and pour out our heart and hurts. He loves us and knows about betrayal. David felt betrayed, also. What did he do?

Liberty Bible Commentary has some background for us concerning this chapter:

David was being persecuted by Saul. He had taken refuge with 600 men at Keliah; but, warned by Abiathar the son of Ahinelech that the men of Keliah were not to be trusted, he escaped into the wilderness of Ziph. so David writes this song of assured deliverance because of divine aid. (1 Samuel 23)

David has been betrayed and has a threat on his life, which bring him grief. With a heavy, David turns directly to God for help. He praises God for He is good, for God had previously rescued David from his troubles and enemies.

In our key verse, helper means to surround, to protect, to aid.

This reminds me of Psalm 46:1, God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

When we feel surrounded by the enemy, we can turn to God, who is presently there to protect and aid us in our situation. Deliverance may seen distant, we can be as confident as David, trusting that it will surely come. God's deliverance may not be swift, so we must continue to trust Him. Just recall how He has rescued us previously.


LET IT GROW

God is always keeping me alive, as our key verse says.

"What we set our hearts on always determines what we do," Lydia Brownback proclaims in her book, Singing a New Song.

David's betrayers did not set God before themselves. Strangers were attacking him. Violent people were trying to kill him. They cared nothing for God. (verse 3)
Betrayal leads to hurt and anger, which are natural responses. So we must let go of our anger and leave vindication in the hands of God. (verse 7)
We can have peace when we are anchored in Christ Jesus. Jesus was betrayed by one of His friends, Judas Iscariot, as well as His people the Jews.

LET IT GO

Go to my Helper.
As I work through it, forgive the betrayer.
Let Him take revenge.

Where Are We Looking?

O. T, #1248  "Where Are We Looking?"
July 25, 2018
Psalm 53
God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, that did seek God. Psalm 53:2

LET IT GLOW

Whenever we travel in unfamiliar places, I pull out the map, either the atlas or the Google Map. I need directions for the right path to take in order to get to our destination. Christians are the same. Fools are the same, but they may not know they need God. Will we share the right way for them?

There are similarities between this chapter and chapter 14. In fact, the first 3 verses are almost the same words. It is a revision sung by the same author under different circumstances. Israel was at the hands of the Assyrians during Hezekiah and Isaiah's days (2 Kings 18:9).

I find it interesting in that God looks down from heaven on all human race to see if anyone is wise and seeks God (verse 2).
In this chapter, Elohim is used 7 times, and 3 times in chapter 14. Elohim refers to the holiness of God. God is witness to everything as He looks down from His place of holiness upon the children of men.
What would He see today? What does He see in our heart today? What does He see us involved in?
Will He find us looking up to Him? Are we looking to the world for answers instead of to God?

LET IT GROW

What did God see in David's time?

• Fools that reject God by claiming He does not exist; (verse 1
• None having an understanding of God; (verse 2)
• Corrupted hearts; (verse 3)
• harden consciences; (verse 4)
• souls terrorized. (verse 5)

Along the way, those fools do all they can to crush God's people, but will not succeed. (verse 6)
No one pursues God unless He first draws us to Himself. God will ultimately be victorious and will reign from His beloved city of Jerusalem. Jesus is the salvation that He offers. When it all comes to pass, there will be rejoicing and gladness.
All we can do is pray for those fools and witness to them of the Truth. We can point them to Scriptures.
I want to be found faithfully seeking and looking to God whenever He looks upon me. My heart's desire to please Him.

LET IT GO

Look to God for answers.
Search Scriptures.
Stand firm on faith in God.
Believe His Word is Truth and share it.

Are You Like a Flourishing Olive Tree?

O. T. #1247  "Are You Like a Flourishing Olive Tree?
July 24, 2018
Psalm 52
But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. I will always trust in God's unfailing love. I will praise You forever, O God, for what You have done. I will trust in Your good name in the presence of Your faithful people.  (Psalm 52:8-9)

LET IT GLOW

Folks, let us pray for the families of the 17 who died in the duck boat accident at Branson and the 14 who survived. Especially the lady and her nephew who were the only ones in their family to live, with 9 family members dying. What a tragedy.

Who likes to eat olives, green or black? Did you know the oldest living olive tree in on the island of Crete in the Mediterranean? It is estimated to be close to 3,000 years old. Wow! In our chapter, David compares himself to an olive tree. Although the tree is not tall, it produces much fruit.

Today, we go back in time to 1 Samuel 21-22 when David was running from King Saul. David visited the Priest Ahimelech, who gave them the showbread to eat and Goliath's sword. Doeg the Edomite was present. Then he told Saul that David and his men (400) were going to fight to take over Saul's kingdom, which was a lie. As a result of all of this, Saul had 85 priests and Ahimelech killed.

David wrote this psalm to show we are safe in God's care, no matter the threats. We may get rattled, but God doesn't. Doeg was about to be plucked up and rooted out of the land of the living.

David describes himself as a green flourishing tree in a healthy state, which has leaves all the time and can live for a very long time. David was planted, rooted, fixed, and flourishing. God did it.
Not only is an olive tree one of the longest-living tree, but a flourishing tree too.
God gives eternal protection of His faithful servants.

Are we like a flourishing olive tree? Is our nourishment from the Word of God? Are we prepared for eternal life?

LET IT GROW

Doeg was Saul's chief herdsman, looking after the king's cattle. He schemed to kill David, being one of David's main adversaries.

David described Doeg as a:

• boastful and treacherous man (verse 1),
• a liar and slanderer (verse 2),
• a deceiver for personal gain, a lover of evil more than good, and a lover of lies more than truth (verse 4),
• a lover of seeing others hurt.

The contrast between Doeg and David is vivid: the former is like a dead tree dug out and the latter is like a green olive tree. Doeg trusted in riches-David trusted in the mercy of God. David would be blessed for ever-Doeg would be cursed for ever. David will praise God for His help-Doeg will live in remorse. David waited upon God's Name-Doeg did not know it.

The wicked shall be torn up by the roots, but those who wait upon the Lord will be planted and flourish forever.

Do we allow difficulties and opposition from others shake our confidence in God? Actually, the things we suffer are a sign of His favor and we can be sure He is at work in them to increase our capacity for joy and hope. (Lydia Brownback)

Romans 5:3-5 tells us that affliction produces endurance, which gives us hope because God's love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given us.

LET IT GO

Be an olive tree, flourishing with the Heavenly Father.
Trust His unfailing love.
Praise God for what He has done in my life.

Rich, Whipped Crean

O. T. #1246 "Rich, Whipped Cream"
July 23, 2018
Psalm 51-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

When mom wanted fresh, rich whipped cream, she didn't go to the freezer section of the local grocery store. She had dad skim over the top of the milk bucket for it. When I was little, dad used to milk cows for a living on our farm. So you might say, we had the cream of the crop to enjoy on top of fresh strawberries. He would bring it into the house, then mom would beat it with the old mixer for a while. I still remember the rich flavor it had. Nothing like it. Mm good.  Certainly not that which comes in the white and blue container. 

Well, I said all of that to say, we still have some cream of the Word to enjoy today. Although this chapter was written as a result of David's sinning and repentance, we can scrape some rich encouragement from it. So out of the 20 verses, I am going to pick a few that will stick to our ribs.

Have mercy on me, O God, according to Thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of Thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. (verse 1)

David had been confronted by the Prophet Nathan about his sins of adultery and murder. He had been caught. What could he do but admit and confess them? David was pleading for God's mercy, which he felt so unworthy to receive. Yet he quickly asked God to blot his sins out of God's record book.
We know it is the blood of Jesus which He shed on the cross that can do so.

Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight... (verse 4a)

There is no private sin, for God sees all. Regardless of who we hurt with our sin, God is hurt worse.

...wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. (verse 7b)
Create in me a clean heart, O God: and renew a right spirit within me. (verse 10)

Although we live about 3 miles as the crow flies from a coal power plant, snow (when we get it that is) falls and accumulates on the ground white and clean. David is not speaking of being clean from a bath or his clothing being washed, but his soul being cleansed from it sins.

Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation; and uphold me with Thy free spirit. (verse 12)

David's heart desired to walk hand in hand with his Creator again. He needed to obtain the favor of his God.

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise. (verse 17)

The Mosaic law allows no reconciliation or sacrifice for the sins of adultery and murder. David correctly recognizes that the only acceptable sacrifices are a broken spirit and a contrite heart. (Falwell)

Contrite means to collapse (physically or mentally).

When we come to God confessing our sins, it should be with a broken spirit, one that is collapsed. We agree with Him, naming our sins, seeking His forgiveness in desperation. God does not despise broken things, even though people do. 1 John 1:9 reassures us of His faithfulness to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (when we confess our sins).
Praise the Lord Jesus!

LET IT GROW

The shame and embarrassment of our sins can beat us, like the cream, but we can turn into something sweet and rich in faith like the whipped cream.

Then will I teach transgressors thy ways, and sinners shall be converted unto thee. (verse 13)

David was ready to teach transgressors the ways of God. He desired to help them to learn from his mistakes so they would not go through all he had. After receiving the joy of God's salvation, David was ready to sing praises to his merciful God.

... and my tongue shall sing aloud of Thy righteousness. (verse 14c)

When we've blown it, God can still restore us and help us move on in His will. He gives us hope and healing, puts back together the broken heart. He can still use us after we have disobeyed. God still blesses after disobedience. He gave David another son, Solomon who became the wisest man and king of Israel.

Are we reaching out to those in need of God's forgiveness and restoration?
When they hit bottom, it is time to look up, to God in repentance. Then we can be an overcomer.

LET IT GO

Break me, cleanse me, restore me, a sinner, O Righteous God, my Savior and King Jesus.
Help me to overcome temptations to sin.
Direct me as I teach others Your Word.
Accept my praises to Your name.

A Renewed Right Spirit

O. T. #1245  "A Renewed Right Spirit"
July 20. 2018
Psalm 51
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Psalm 51:10

LET IT GLOW

As I have grown older, I have found it a more difficult, this thing called a special diet. I knew there were certain foods, much less the sodas, that would make me sick. But I indulged anyway. So there were consequences to endure. It caught up with me, for sure, my not taking care of my body-sinning against my body. My esophagus reaped the results with some damage. The pain brought me to repentance, a restricted diet, and a renew spirit to be faithful to my body and to God. David was in a similar boat, but with different sins.

We have read of David's tragic sins he committed concerning Bathsheba and Uriah in 2 Samuel 11-12. Prophet Nathan confronted the king and he repented. Here David pleads for God's mercy and forgiveness.
David pours out his heart to a God that:

• shows lovingkindness, tender mercies, and blots out transgressions (verse 1);
• is justified when He judges sin and is grieved most of all whenever we sin against others (verse 4);
• desires truth from us and makes us know wisdom (verse 6);
• cleanses the sinner's heart (verse 7);
• gives joy and gladness (verse 8);
• blots out iniquities (verse 9);
• renews a right spirit within us (verse 10);
• desires a broken and contrite heart more than burnt offerings (verse 17).

David admits to God that he sinned against Him whenever he committed adultery and murder.
Our Great God is that and more which David described. When we sin, we can be comforted in the assurance of His forgiveness. People need to hear that. Which one are we and they needing today?

LET IT GROW

What is David desiring from God?

• his sinful heart to be washed as clean as white snow (verse 7);
• joy and gladness restored (verse 8);
• a renewed right spirit and relationship with God (verse 10);
• renewed joy of God's salvation (verse 12);

Do we hear the sincerity of David's repentance?

No sin is too great to be forgiven! While God forgives us, He does not always erase the natural consequences of our sin. David's life and family were never the same as a result of what he had done (2 Samuel 12:1-23). Life Application Study Bible

I needed this lesson today. After a sincere repentance of this sin, I have a renewed right spirit within me from my Merciful Father. I will use the word "no" more often when faced with the temptation of those foods and drinks. I will be prepared with alternatives so I can maintain a right attitude about it all. The challenge is on again. I can do this, with God's help.
What is challenging you today?
Is there a "little" sin that you need to repent of and turn away from right now?

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  (Ps. 46:1)

I delight to do Thy will, O my God; yea, Thy law is within my heart. (Ps. 40:8)

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.  (Colossian 3:17)

LET IT GO

Repent.
Turn away from those things which cause me to sin.
Seek God's help when I am weak.
Delight to do what is right.
Give thanks for what I can eat and drink, not focusing on what I can't.

Dark Clouds Hovering Over

O. T. #1244  "Dark Clouds Hovering Over"
July 19, 2018
Psalm 50-Part 2
Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, and keep the vows you made to the Most High. Then call on Me when you are in trouble, and  I will rescue you, and will give Me glorify.
Psalm 50:14-15 NLT

LET IT GLOW

What can we thank God for today? For me, I am so very grateful for the much needed rain showers we received last night and early this morning. Our yard was yellow with crunchy grass in places. God answered my prayers, and probably others, too. The thing is, dark clouds hovered over us, then passed by earlier this week, giving rain to areas around us, just not our farm and town. Was it a testing of faith?
Do you have dark clouds hovering over you today? Continue reading and find out what we can do on our part.

When we reach a point of need, where do we turn? God allows us to get to that point for a reason. He is ready and able to rescue us. When we call upon our God and trust Him deliver us, we are showing a watching world how He makes a difference in the lives of His children. If we don't turn to God, then we prevent people the opportunity of seeing God's provision in a Christian's life.

So why do we not turn to God during our distress? It can be due to our pride, self-sufficient attitude, thinking we can handle it our self by using our own resources, wisdom, and hard work. Friends, pride robs God from being given glory and seeks to give it to us. We are taking what rightfully belongs to God-glory. I had not thought of it that way before now. Shall we call upon our Lord and wait exclusively upon God to rescue us. So the next time we find that we are in distress, turn to God first. He promises to rescue us. (Give Him thanks and keep our vows.)
[These thoughts were taken from Henry and Richard Blackaby's devotional book, Experiencing God Day-by-Day.

LET IT GROW

Verse 23 KJV says, Whoso offereth praise glorifieth  Me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I show the salvation of God.

In the Hebrew language, the word conversation refers to a road (as trodden); a course of life or mode of action; journey; manner; path; way.

Giving thanks to God is a sacrifice that truly honors Him. If we stay on God's path for our life, He will bless us with God's salvation, which means liberty, deliverance, prosperity, safety, saving.

Did you notice the giving of thanks occurred before the deliverance or prosperity? Before we receive anything, we are instructed to thank God.
Can we thank Him for what He is doing or going to do?
Can we glorify Him in our circumstance? What about if He choses to come through in a different way than we prefer? Or what if God ultimately heals by taking our loved one home to heaven? Will we still thank Him?

LET IT GO

Give God thanks now before He does it and afterwards.
Trust Him always.
Jesus, Your grace is sufficient for me.

Going Through the Motion of Devotion

O. T. #1243  "Going Through the Motion of Devotion"
July 18, 2018
Psalm 50
Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the Most High. And call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.  Psalm 50:14-15

LET IT GLOW

Is this your day of trouble? Anyone need delivering in your day of trouble? We can have it. god tells us how in this chapter. Read on, friend.

Asaph was a musician appointed by David to preside over the sacred choral services of Israel (1 Chron. 16:5). He was a poet and wrote 12 psalms, this being the first. (His descendants probably wrote some after his death.) Falwell

First of all, Asaph describes God as:

• Mighty God-el in the Hebrew language means strength, power, goodly, great, Almighty God is El Shaddai, the God who is Self-sufficient and supplies my need; Self-existent One;
• speaking, He summons all humanity;
• perfection of beauty; (verse 2)
• shining in glorious radiance;
• approaches and is not silent; (verse 3)
• being surrounded by flames and hurricanes, His attendants;
• Judge who pronounces sentence; (verse 4)
• Righteousness, the right, just; (verse 6)
• speaking and testifying that I am God, even thy God; (verse 7)

Are we praising God for who He is? Reading the list is why we can be still and know He is God. He would not be God if He were anything less, would He?
Along with His mightiness, god is loving, compassionate, merciful to us sinners. What an Amazing God and Awesome God we serve!

LET IT GROW

The penalty of sin is death. Sin must be paid for. During the OT times, a sacrificial animal which met the requirements of purity were acceptable to God, being a substitute for the person. It symbolized faith in God to forgive and show mercy. However, those sacrifices became a ritual. Their hearts were not in it. Israel was going through the motions of devotion. They were not obediently following God's laws and living righteously.

Have you ever asked what is pleasing and acceptable to God? We can find the answer here:

1. It is the sacrifice of a heart devoted to God. Instead of the outward sacrifices, God wants us, our love and devotion.
2. It is the sacrifice of thanksgiving that He desires from us. (verse 14) 
3. He wants us to keep the vows we made to Him.
4. He desires praise that glorifies Him.

We must put our sacrifice of praise in the hands of our High Priest, Jesus Christ, who presents it to God. Jesus is our Sacrificial Lamb of God that takes away our sins.
Did you notice what happens in our key verse whenever we give thanksgiving unto God as a sacrifice, as well as keep our vows to Him? He will deliver us in our day of trouble as we call upon Him. Wow!

Are we surrendered to God, to do His will, His way?
Are we thankful for what God does for us?
Does God have our heart, our whole heart?
Is He our first love?
Do we thank and praise Him through out the day?
Ouch.

LET IT GO

Almighty God, You are so loving and kind. Thank You for Your mercy toward this sinner. Thank You for all You give and do for me. I praise You sweet Jesus, for Your sacrifice for me. Help me to keep my vows made to You. Help me to stop going through the motion of devotion. In Jesus' name, amen.

Wealth or Wisdom

O. T. #1242  "Wealth or Wisdom"
July 17, 2018
Psalm 49

LET IT GLOW

This is one of the Wisdom Psalms. If we want to be wise, we should seek God's wisdom and ask for it, then we will receive it. We recognize the book of Proverbs as having wisdom for us, but what wisdom does this chapter have to share with us?

1. Money buys lots of things, but it cannot buy an extension on life or eternal life.
2. Our faith should be placed in God and not riches, so we do not fear evil.
3. The wealthy cannot redeem themselves, for God has provided redemption through the blood of Jesus Christ. A ransom paid can never be large enough of a sufficient amount. (verses 7-9)
4. Everyone will eventually die, both the rich and poor of this world.
5. We leave it all behind when we leave this world. We brought nothing in and we take nothing out, materially speaking.
6. Our investments in earthly riches made here will only be left to those inheriting them. When Death summons the wealthy, they must leave behind stocks, shares, gold, jewels, and material possessions. However, our investments made in kingdom work, obedience, and resources used, faith in God and loving Him will be our treasures in heaven. Those will be lasting.

Without faith, it is impossible to please God. His Word has a wealth of wisdom available for us to obtain. Just seek it.

LET IT GROW

Is our goal to be admired? Do we need the best and most of things to be admired by others? Or are we striving to please God? Is it wisdom or wealth that we seek? Does our happiness come from trusting in our money or in our God?

Paul gave Timothy some wisdom, found in 1 Timothy 6:9-11,
But those who would be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains.
But you, man of God, run from these things, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.

We may not be a wealthy millionaire in this world, but we can be one in heaven.
Here are some verses concerning treasures: Matthew chapter 6, 12:35; 13:44 and Colossians 2:2-3.

LET IT GO

Spend my time and efforts seeking God's wisdom instead of the world's wealth.
Be thankful for what I have materially and spiritually.
Seek God's admiration and not the admiration of people.

Unfailing Love

O. T. #1241  "Unfailing Love"
July 16, 2018
Psalm 48


LET IT GLOW

Where can we go for unfailing live?  People fail us and we fail people. But there is One who will always love us. That is good news.

Mt. Zion is in reference to the city of Jerusalem, which was located upon one of the hills of Judea. In that city God was worshiped and praised. The author, whether King David or another, says in verses 9-10:
O God, we meditate on Your unfailing love as we worship in Your Temple. As Your name deserves, O God, You will be praised to the ends of the earth. Your strong right hand filled with victory.

Jerusalem,. and the Temple, were considered to be the place of God's presence in the world. Revelation 21 speaks of the New Jerusalem. Instead of going up to the Temple to meet with God, He will come down to be among us. God became a man, Jesus Christ, and came down to live among us (John 1:14). Wherever God reigns, there is peace, security, and love. His presence, protection, and love to His people was in Jerusalem.

Do we meditate on God's unfailing love? It is always there ready to fill us.

LET IT GROW

In verses 13 and 14, Israel was told to pass on this blessing to future generations.
For God is our God forever. He will be our guide even unto death. Guide is lead, carry away, to drive away. 

LET IT GO

Thank You Lord for Your unfailing love.
Guide me today Jesus.
Help me share Your love with others that I meet today.

Clapping and Shouting

O. T. #1240  "Clapping and Shouting"
Psalm 47
July 12, 2018
Clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with a voice of triumph.  Psalm 47:1

LET IT GLOW

This week I have been teaching the first and second graders in Vacation Bible School. We have had around 9 and less in my class. Last night, I was blessed. One of the girls asked Jesus to forgive her sins and be her Savior. It was after I demonstrated a prayer. I knew it was the Lord's timing and His doing, for what children would immediately say she wanted to say it? Now that causes me to want to shout to the Lord and clap for His working! (She is one who attends our church.)

Again, this is a song that the sons of Korah, Levitical musicians of Israel, sang for the congregation. It is thought to have been written on the occasion of the removal of the ark to Mount Zion in 2 Samuel 6,. Also, the prophecy of the ascension of Christ, His kingly rule, and His majestic place on the right hand of the Father. (Falwell)

What is happening in this short chapter?

• Honor God by joyfully praising Him by clapping hands and shouting about His victory.
• The Lord Most High is described as terrible, which means to revere; reverence. Our victorious God is so awesome. 
• He is King over all the earth, not just over Israel.
• He chose the Promised Land for His beloved people, Israel. One day we will join together in songs of praise in our Promised Land called heaven.
• God is highly honored everywhere.

How awesome and glorious is our God! He heals us, forgives us our sins, changes hearts, and provides for us. He is to be praised above all.

LET IT GROW

Five times the whole earth is called upon to sing praises to God. He is our song, our hope of eternal life, the one in whom we can count on, our trust, and our God of mercy and lovingkindness. 
Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. Holy is He. Sing a new song, to Him who sits on heavens mercy seat, as the song goes. Praise to the King of kings. And I well adore You. He was, is, and is to come. Is Jesus our everything? With all creation, will we sing His praises? The birds do, the cows moo.

LET IT GO

Show my reverence to God with songs of praise.
Clap and shout His praises.
Give Jesus glory.

Be Still

O. T. #1239  "Be Still"
July 11, 2018
Psalm 46-Part 3
Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.  Psalm 46:10-11

LET IT GLOW

Rules, performance, expectations, pressures, deadlines-they will eventually wear us down. In our world, we find acceptance when we fit in, look and act like those on top. Eventually, we fall short, can't keep up, can't keep going on this fast pace spinning us around. What do we do when we drop the ball? How can we help others when our own world is falling apart?

Sure our mind tells us God is in control, yet our heart has us dangling from a shoestring of faith. The answers we need is found in our key verse:

1. Be still.
Who has 20 minutes to be still in this fast pace life? I know, dear one, I have been there. I finally decided before getting into the rat race, I would be still in Bible study. (Thank you friends for joining me.) However, others are not on this road of faith. Now, there is a difference in the "meditation" that is popular. Theirs opens up the mind to blankness, allowing the devil access. That is not what I am talking about. Find a quiet place in your house, assign it to be your quiet place, for however long you can remain there. Come away, alone with God.
I pray before I get out of bed. Then I listen to praise music before Bible study. However you do it is fine, just do it.

2. Know that He is God.
 Now that we have physically come away, let us do so spiritually. Reverently honor God, exalting Him as your Creator, Savior, King and Lord, the One in charge, all wise, all powerful, merciful and gracious, loving and faithful, and peace and comfort. We can sing praises, quote scriptures, sit quietly, or cry pouring out our heart to Him.
(That takes our focus off us and our problems and puts it on God.) Know Him in our heart, not just our mind.
I like the song that says, In Christ along our hope is found."  Folks, He is our refuge and strength to go on and meet today's challenges.

Will we be still and know He is God? Jesus loves you and me. Be calm and pray, as my pillow says..

LET IT GROW

What is God telling us in the rest of verse 10 and 11?
1. He will be exalted among the heathen.
Heathen can be a foreign nation, a Gentile, people.
Although people set themselves up, have their own will and way, God will ultimately have His will and way, receiving glory for it.

2. He will be exalted in the earth.
God will receive glory, exalted above all. Creation honors Him.

3. The LORD of Hosts is with us.
He is on our side. No need to fear. We are not alone in this.

4. The God of Jacob is our refuge.
He is the answer. Jesus is the Way, Truth, and Life. We can trust in Him, as well as put our hope in Him. May it be said of us, "Through it all they trusted Jesus." Is it will with our soul?


LET IT GO

Be still and know He is God.
Exalt Jesus.
Place my hope and trust in Jesus today.
Through it all...

He Has This

O. T. #1238  "He Has This"
July 10, 2018
Psalm 46-Part 2
Therefore, we will not fear...    Psalm 46:2

LET IT GLOW

Worry, worry, worry. It can drive us crazy. We can become fearful. What happened when Israel faced 185,000 armed enemies? What about us? What can we do in our time of trouble? Are we fearing the future?

To be honest, I had forgotten verse 1 in our chapter, so I wrote it on a green index card and have it visible on my desk now. Like King Hezekiah back in 701 B.C., there are times that I need God to be my shelter, hope, trust (refuge) when the enemy comes on strong against me (Jesus killed 185,000 Assyrians for Israel). And when I am weak, Jesus is my strength-security, majesty, boldness, power.

Look at verse 2. Regardless of the situation around Israel, whatever violent disturbances Israel may encounter, God was in her midst. With that reassurance, Israel would not fear:

• earthquakes,
• crumbling mountains into the sea,
• roaring and foaming seas.

Although people experience those things in our nation, we may experience personally similar results. Our world my be shaken up with disease, divorce, death. We may feel like our world is crumbling and falling apart around us. We may loose our job, have a rebellious child, an aging parent. Then again, we may feel like we are drowning in the see of life. Responsibilities, relationships, and finances could be over our head. Despair. Where do we turn? Turn to Jesus, pray, forgive one more time.

LET IT GROW

How was Israel able to have those reassurances without fear? Verses 2-9 tell us:

• A river brings joy to the city of our God (Jerusalem), the sacred home of the Most High.
• God dwells in that city.
• It cannot be destroyed.
• God will protect it.
• The Lord of Heaven's Armies is here among us.
• The God of Israel is our fortress (refuge).
• He brings destruction upon the world.
• See His glorious works.
• He causes war to end by breaking the bows, snapping the spears, and burning the shields.

So God fights our battles. There is power in the name of Jesus. Since God is for us, who can be against us? Keep walking by faith in the One who created those mountains and seas.
What is our lesson for today?  Let God be our strength and refuge and help. He is our present help. Jesus never leaves us nor forsakes us.

LET IT GO

Do not fear, Almighty God has this.
Lay down my burdens at the feet of Jesus.
Trust Him to work it out.

Whenever and Wherever

O. T. #1237  "Whenever and Wherever"
July 9, 2018
Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Psalm 46:1

LET IT GLOW

Help me Jesus! I don't know how many times I have whispered that desperate, short prayer. Guess what. He hears me whenever I am in dires straight. He hears me wherever I am-standing in need of an immediate fix. god did so for His beloved Israel, too. God is our refuge and strength.

Here is another song written by the chief musician of the sons of Korah. Perhaps it was written during the days of King Hezekiah when Sennacherib's forces were miraculously smitten by the angel of the Lord and the 185,000 Assyrians lay dead on the ground in 2 Kings 19:20-37.  (Falwell)

That gives us a better understanding of the situation. Even though this chapter is only 11 verses, it has deep spiritual insight for us:

 1. God is our refuge.
    While other nations boasted of the cliffs, iron gates, and mighty armies, Israel boasted in her
     refuge and strength being God.
     Refuge refers to a shelter; hope; trust.
     No matter our fear, whether it be a world-wide war or a petty personal problem, we can trust in 
     our God who controls all things. He works through them on our behalf. We live in a time that
     nuclear war threats are a reality. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are real in our own nation.
     Even in the face of total destruction of this earth, we can have a quiet confidence in God's ability
     to save us. Yet, our God is not so big that He doesn't see the happenings in our little situation. We
     can flee to Him and be safe, finding a shelter from problems.

Where do you hide when the enemy is attacking?

 2. God is our strength.
     He can help us bear our burdens, as we stand strong  and not crumble.
     Strength has various applications (force, security, majesty, praise); boldness, loud, power.
     God can fit us for service and suffering, being our strength.

LET IT GROW

3.  God is a very present help in trouble. 
     He is present to help us when we are in trouble. Whenever and whatever our need is, God is all-
     sufficient to aid us right then and there. We don't have to look for help or work for it to be
     deserved. Grace and mercy are following us to rescue us. Who is better than God to help us?

LET IT GO

... of my cares and worries.
... lay down  my burdens at Jesus' feet.
... be still and rest in His shelter and strength.

The Beautiful Bride

O. T. #1236  "The Beautiful Bride"
July 6, 2018
Psalm 45-Part 3

With gladness and rejoicing shall they be brought; they shall enter into the king's palace.
 Psalm 45:15


LET IT GLOW

All weddings are happy occasions, yet the one we read about in this psalm has special significance, especially for those attending and the beautiful bride.
As mentioned earlier, this is a wedding hymn, sung at a royal wedding. Spiritually speaking, it describes the Bridegroom Jesus Christ and his bride, the church. Also, it is a messianic hymn of praise to the marriage of the Lamb. (If you missed the description of the Bridegroom, check out the previous post.)

Now we read of the splendor of the ladies of the court (princess bride, the church), beginning with verse 9:

• The King's daughters are among the noble women, and at their right side stands the queen. All born-again believers are children of the King of kings. The church is considered the queen here.
• The bride (Lamb's wife), whose graces of ornaments are compared to fine linen, clean and white (Rev. 19:8) and pure gold. We will owe our adorning, which will not be with corruptible things, to the precious blood of the Son of God.
• She is to break off all relationships, clinging to her husband. We are to love and worship only Jesus.

[Reference: Liberty Bible Commentary]

Are we prepared for the marriage of the Lamb of God, Jesus?

LET IT GROW

What else do we read about the bride?

• Others will shower her with gifts.
• The wealthy will beg her favor.
• The bride, princess, will look glorious in her golden gown.
• She will be part of a joyful and enthusiastic procession as she and her attendants enter the king's palace.
• Her sons will become kings, ruling over many lands.

The line of Christ will in all generations, and the people will praise Him forever. The Lord Jesus Christ is a name which is above all names. Before Him, every knee shall bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord. When an opportunity is given to us while we are here on earth, we should do the same.

LET IT GO

Help others to prepare for the marriage of the Lamb and be a part of the wedding through the church.
Love Jesus will all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Oil of Gladness

O. T. #1236  "Oil of Gladness"
July 5, 2018
Psalm 45-Part 2

Thou loves righteousness, and harvest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath annointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.   Psalm 45:7

LET IT GLOW

Anyone need some gladness today? Among the mundane moments, insults, harsh words, being ignored, low on love, I am certainly needy. As a child of the King, I know where to go to be filled with gladness once again. Join me to find the place.

Here we read of the details of a royal wedding-first the husband-to-be, who is the king, and then the bride, as well as her bridal party. This marriage song is representative of Christ as the adored bridegroom.
In Revelation, the church is described as the bride of Christ and He is the bridegroom in the marriage of the King, which is to take place in heaven.

How does the writer describe his king, our King Jesus, the Bridegroom?

• He is the most handsome of all. (verse 2)
• Speaks graciously.
• God has blessed him forever.
• He is a mighty warrior. (verse 3)
• He is glorious and majestic.
• He rides with the virtues of truth, meekness, and righteousness. (verse 4)
• He performs awe-inspiring deeds. (verse 4)
• His arrows are sharp and heart piercing. (verse 5)
• Nations fall beneath his feet.
• Your throne endures forever. 

Israel's earthly kings had faults. Jesus is our king with no faults, perfect in all His ways. He is meek and gentle, drawing us sinners to Him. He touches the hearts of people, changing them into His purpose. Also, Jesus is our bridge (Mediator) to the Heavenly Father God.
What a Savior!

Jesus, we fall down before You, our King of kings and Lord of lords to worship You as our Savior. How awesome You are and Your deeds are! You alone are worthy of praise and worship.

LET IT GROW

The description of the king continues in 6-8:

• He rules with a septet of justice  
• He loves justice and hates evil.
• God announted him with the oil of gladness.
• His garments smell of  precious and rare spices.
• Music entertains him in his palace.

At oriental feasts, it was a custom to pour oil over the head of distinguished guests. The Messiah was anointed by God Himself, exalting Him above all others. It followed His voluntary humiliation and condescension. (Heb. 2:9, 12:2) Falwell

As I recall, Samuel anointed Saul and David with special and blessed oil as Israel's kings.  Jesus anoints us with the Holy Spirit. 

Jesus awaits to give us an oil of gladness when we humble ourself before Him. As a child of the King, we can get our needs met. e makes us a daughter or son of the King. Then gladness will run down us as the oil. Are we glad to be a child of the King?
His grace and comfort flow as Jesus strengthens us. His Spirit fills our heart with joy. Need some joy today?

LET IT GO

Keep me humbled before You Jesus. 
Help me love justice and hate evil.

O. T. #1235  "We got a Wedding to Attend"
July 3, 2018
Psalm 45

LET IT GLOW

How many people watched the weddings of Queen Elizabeth's grandsons? They were so elaborate and like a fairytale wedding. How many of us got a special invitation to them? They compare to nothing like the one coming in heaven, when we are invited to the marriage of the King Jesus and His church. I can only imagine.

Well, today's song was sung by the Levitical musicians and written by the sons of Korah. It is entitled
"The Marriage of the King."
Falwell described it as "a heavenly wedding song rejoicing in the union of Christ the Bridegroom and His bride the church.
Since we believers are invited and will be present, shall we see what takes place?

First, in verse 1a, the word inditing means to bubble up; bring forth.

This writer's heart is bubbling up with excitement, so much that he cannot contain himself as he speaks good things of his king. He considers himself merely as an instrument of the mind of God, as his tongue is the pen of a ready writer. (verse 1b)

This psalm was a wedding hymn, which would ordinarily be sung at a royal wedding. Spiritually speaking, we see the marriage of the  Lord Jesus Christ as the Bridegroom to His bride, the church. How exciting it will be when we are an honored guest in heaven, a daughter or son of the King. Our excitement just imagining it should cause some bubbling up within us right now.

LET IT GROW

Are you ready? The requirement is a white robe. That's all.We obtain it by being washed in the blood of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, as Revelation 7:13-14 tells us.
Have you ever taken a moment, sat down, confessed your sins, asking Jesus to forgive you, believe He is the Savior who died for you to give you eternal life? He took our place so we don't have to pay for our sins, What love! If not, you can do it now.


LET IT GO

Jesus, You are such a loving and awesome King.

Faith in Defeat

O. T. #1234  "Faith in Defeat"
July 2, 2018
Psalm 44


LET IT GLOW

The chief musician of Israel, who is the author of this song, sang it to his countrymen that experienced a setback in their military. Also, it may have been sung on an occasion like the one in 2 Chronicles 20:18-19, where the faithful Jehoshaphat was surrounded by enemies and the Levites sang to the Lord before the battle.
When Israel felt attacked, they remembered what God had done for them. In conquering Canaan, God had told Israel to drive out the wicked and those who opposed God. They were to be a witness to the world of His power and love.
What had God done for them in the past? God's right hand, strong arm, and blinding light from His face gave their ancestors victory. It wasn't the strength of their swords or bows that did it.

What is the writer admitting?
You are my King and my God. You command victories for Israel. (verse 4)
O God, we give glory to you all day long and constantly praise Your name. (verse 8)

Are we giving God glory today? Will we constantly praise His name? In whom or what do we trust? Only Good is trustworthy. He will not let us down.

LET IT GROW

Despite their faith and obedience, Israel had been defeated in battle. The psalmist felt their suffering was not deserved. They were not following after a foreign god. God knows the secrets of the heart.The writer calls on God to redeem His people because of His faithful love. (verse 26)

Our suffering may not be a punishment, but a trial that proves and reveals our loyalty. God is still in control. He is ready to help, but He may first want to build faith in His followers.
Paul assured us that nothing can separate us from this love in Romans 8.

LET IT GO

Keep walking by faith, even after defeat.
God is my King, always in control.
Give Him glory and praise.