Who Knows?

O. T. #1397  "Who Knows?"
Feb. 28, 2019
Psalm 139
 Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising Thou understandest my thought afar off.
Psalm 139:2



LET IT GLOW

We all have things we wish we never said, thought we had never thought, done things we wish we could change. We may try to keep secrets of our past from folks, but there is one who knows all about it-God. Do you believe that He knows all things, everything? We find out David did as we read his psalm today.

Be prepared folks, we are going to camp out the next few days in this chapter for 24 verses. David has a lot to teach us, needless to say. It will be worth it. It is good, friend, so continue on with me.

In The MacArthur Bible Commentary, John MacArthur gives us an outline of God's character in this chapter which is fitting:

1. God's Omniscience (verses 1-6)
2. God's Omnipresence (verses 7-12)
3. God's Omnipotence (verses 13-18)
4. David's Obeisance (verses 19-24)

Now, let's look at the first six verses.
Webster's Dictionary defines omniscient as having infinite awareness, understanding, and insight;  possessed of universal or complete knowledge.

In layman's terms, God knows everything, is all-knowing.
Hannah said so in her prayer of praise and dedication of Samuel because God earlier answered her prayer for a son, whom she would give to the Lord as long as he lived to serve God.
In 1 Samuel 2:3c she says... for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by Him actions are weighed.

I could spend hours researching the scriptures which state all that God knows, such as the hearts of people, but I am not going to do so.
Just take a minute to consider all that God knows-the strength of the sun, the position of the planets, how many stars are shining, how much the earth weighs, how the bodies of animals, insects, and humans function, what is in the depths of the seas, our thoughts and intents of the hearts, who is going to heaven, when Jesus is returning, secret things. He knows everything that happened down through the ages, what is going on today, and all about the future. and it will happen as He has planned.Whew! Those are only a few to consider about the knowledge of God.

Will we seek His will for our lives, trust Him will everything? Do we desire to serve this all-knowing God?

LET IT GROW 

God desires to have a relationship with His creation of people. Here are some thoughts from Liberty Bible Commentary and Jerry Falwell.
What is David acknowledging about God as he communes with his God?

• He has searched me and known me. (verse 1) Searched originally meant to dig, as for precious metals. We search for God in His Word, but He already knows us.
• He knows every move David made, us too. (verse 2)
• He compassest (sift, winnow) David's path, lying down, and his ways. (verse 3) God is intimately aware of all our ways, that he has sifted our seconds to insure our well-being.
• He knows every word we speak and our thoughts before we verbalize them. (verse 4)
• He is behind us recording our sins and before us with grace blotting out the remembrance of them. We can't turn back and escape Him, for He is behind us.(Spurgeon) (verse 5)
• The fact that God knows everything about David and us surpasses his comprehension, and even his imagination. (verse 6)

LET IT GO

Thank You Father that you know all things and knew I would sin and need a Savior.
Thank You Jesus for enduring all things so You could provide me with salvation that is free to me.
You are so gracious and merciful!
I am trusting You with my future, for You hold all things in Your hands.
You are good, so very good to me and my family.
Praise be to God, Jesus the Son, and Holy Spirit.
                                                                                                            

Future Plans

O. T. 1396  "Future Plans" 
Feb. 27, 2019 
Psalm 138
The LORD will work out His plans for my life...  Psalm 138:8a

LET IT GLOW

What plans do you have for this year? For the next 5 or even 10 years? Are you making plans for retirement? Seek God's plans first, then they will work out and be fulfilling. We made plans for this year, but God seems to be changing some of them. So now we are watching Him and are open to changing them. It will be interesting in the direction that God directs us.

Life Application Study Bible says the theme of this psalm is thanksgiving for answered prayer. God works out His plans for our lives and will bring us through the difficulties we face.

Our God gives spiritual and material blessings, and answered prayers to us. so we should give Him thanks for those things and praise Him for Who He is. As we read this small chapter, we are reminded of what God gives:

• love and truth, unfailing loving and faithfulness (verse 2)
• His promises (verse 2)
• answered prayers and strength (verse 3)
• protection (verse 7)
• works out His plans for my life (verse 8).

God's faithful love endures forever, according to verse 8b. Let us not take for granted His love, provisions, and answered prayers. Will you join me right now and thank God for something right now?
His glory is very great. Let us give Him glory throughout our day.

LET IT GROW

What is David telling us to do in this psalm?

• Give thanks to God with my whole heart. (verse 1a)
• Sing His praises. (verse 1b)
• Bow before Him in worship. (verse 2a)
• Praise the name of Jesus. (verse 2b)
• Pray. (verse 3)
• Share God's Word, even with kings. (verse 4)
• Sing about the Lord's ways. (verse 5)
• Be humble. (verse 6)
• When surrounded by troubles, trust God's protection from my enemies. (verse 7)
• Believe that God is working out His plans for our life; place my hope in Him. (verse 8a)
• Trust Him to not abandon us, for He made us. (verse 8b)  

Oh, this is good, so I must share what Life Application Study Bible has to say about verse 8:

Every person dreams and makes plans for the future. Then they work hard to see those dreams and plans come true. But to make the most of life, we must align our plans with God's plan. He alone knows what is best for us; He alone can fulfill His purpose for us. As you make plans and dream dreams, talk with God about them.

Will we ask God to direct our dreams and plans for our future?

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)


LET IT GO 

Seek God's plans for my future.
Follow Him day by day.
Trust His Word and leading.
Give Him thanks and sing His praises.
Pray.                                                      

Singing in the Rain

O. T.#1395  "Singing in the Rain"
Feb. 26, 2019
Psalm 137
How can we sing the LORD's song on foreign soil? Psalm 137:4

LET IT GLOW

When it rains it pours. Troubles seem to pile up. How do we live while under it all? Can we sing God's praises while it is raining troubles in our life?

This psalmist was a person weeping over the bitterness of captivity while in exile. Israel was captive in Babylon. Jerusalem and the Temple were destroyed. It was not a good time for the Israelites. It was a long period of grief, 70 years. There was no song in their heart and rightfully so. Judah and Israel had split as well as both had bad kings who were unfaithful to God. Didn't they realize that their forsaking God and turning to idols is what got them in a foreign land?
So that is the setting for this psalm.
Friends, God knows where we are. He sees the condition of our heart. He knows when we are a long way from Him, from home, so to speak. doesn't He also know what to do to bring us to repentance and back to Him? For sure.


LET IT GROW

Were their captors requiring the children of God to sing songs of Zion? Nope, they refused to do it. If they could not play and sing praises to Jehovah with those who worshiped God, but before heathen idolaters, then they would not do it at all.
On the other hand, aren't we supposed to praise God in all our circumstances-easy and hard?

Well, we know how it turned out for the Israelites. The Medes and Persians destroyed Babylon. Many of those who experienced the oppression lived to see the victory.
Verse 9 seems harsh, but that is what happened. Treat the Babylonians the way they treated us.
No mercy there between the lines, is there?

Concerning our enemies, do we pray for God's wrath or for His mercy and their repentance? What a scary thing to be in the hands of an angry God.
We want mercy so we should pray for them. In fact the Bible tells us to do so.

Do we have hope in our God that is so strong that we can sing His praises during the trials of our life?
Can we sing in the rain?

LET IT GO

Jesus, You are my reason to sing.
Everything is in Your control.
I trust You to take care of this problem for me, for my good and Your glory.

The Holy Land Trip
Day 4
March 8, 2019

Hi there everyone from Israel! (Well it will be by the time you are reading this.)
We have a busy agenda ahead of us today, much less packing up and changing hotels.

Today, we will end up at Jerusalem (Matthew 20:18). Do you recall our study of the Psalms of the Ascent, Ps. 120-134?                                                                          

When Low, Depressed, or Humiliated, Remember This

O. T. #1394  "When Low, Depressed, or Humiliated, Remember This"
Feb. 25, 2019
Psalm 136


LET IT GLOW


What is the phrase that is repeated 26 times in this psalm? For His mercy endureth forever. (Be sure to not skip over it while reading this chapter.)

The Hebrew word for mercy is checed, which means kindness, favor, good deed, lovingkindness, pity.

While some translations substitute the word love for mercy, we can trust God's mercy, kindness, and love lasts forever. He said it, that settles it.We don't have to worry about it running out because it flows from a deep well that never runs dry. Its source is God. We can count on it, after all, His mercies are new every morning.
Why do we need mercy? So we don't get what we deserve for our sinning.
Isn't that one of the reasons we continue to love God-His mercy continues to flow on us?
Let's give thanks unto the LORD, for He is a good, good Father; that is who He is. And we are loved by Him. Let us offer the sacrifice of praise unto our God today.
I have to ask this: are we showing mercy to others? People need lovingkindness as they live in this mean world.

LET IT GROW

God did great things for His chosen people, Israel through their history. The psalmist mentions some of them here. He did it using infinite wisdom and power. How did He do it?
With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm. (verse 12a)

According to verse 23, God remembered Israel while they were in their low estate. Low refers to depress or sink; to humiliate.

Israel was humiliated by several enemies, such as Egypt and Babylon. He redeemed them for their enemies, verse 24 states.

Dear one, when we get low or depressed or humiliated, remember that God can deliver and redeem us, too, for we know that His mercy endureth forever.

LET IT GO

O give thanks unto the LORD; for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever.

Becoming What I Think

O. T. #1393  "Becoming What I Think"
Feb. 21, 2019
Psalm 135-Part 2
They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them. Psalm 135:18

LET IT GLOW

This psalm began with a triple call to praise Jehovah, so it is fitting that it ends with a quadruple call to bless Jehovah. (Falwell's observation, not mine) It isn't limited to only the ministers to praise the Lord, but laity are included, also. Since God blesses His children, it is only fitting for His children to bless Him.
How has God blessed you today?
Our second grandson is 14 today. It is hard to take in how fast time is flying. He is a blessing to us.

LET IT GROW

Our key verse is speaking of those that make idols. They can be made into a small statue of worship or they can be a material object that take our attention away from God.

Life Application Study Bible has this to say:

Those who worshiped idols were as blind and insensitive as the idols themselves. They couldn't see or hear what God had to say. In subtle, imperceptible ways we become like the idols we worship. If the true God is your God, you will become more like Him as you worship Him. What are your goals? What takes priority in your life? Choose carefully because you will take on the characteristics of whatever you worship.

The images were the work of men's hands, mock-deities. Let our worshipping a God that is a Spirit make us spiritual and wise. (Matthew Henry)

Wow! I never thought about becoming what I think about. Time to watch what I think about.
His love never fails, it never gives us, and never runs out. On and on it goes, as the song says.


LET IT GO

Praise and glory to the LORD on High.
Bless Your holy name.
Almighty God, You alone are worthy of worship and praise.

Praise the LORD

O. T. #1392  "Praise the LORD!"
Feb. 21, 2019
Psalm 135
Whatsoever the LORD pleased, that did He in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places. Psalm 135:6

LET IT GLOW

Praise the Lord! This is a Hallelujah psalm, which is likely to have been composed during various periods of Israel's history. Probably it was from Hezekiah to the days after the Exile. We can assume they were written for Temple worship of God. (Falwell)

How is God's character described?

• good (verse3)
• a pleasant name (verse 3)
• great (verse 5)
• above all gods (verse 5)
• Sovereign ruler over creation (verses 6-7)
• worked in  lives of Israeli kings and Pharaoh and nations  (verses 8-12)

We see in our key verse that Jehovah is the King of the earth. Is He King of our life? Is He ruling in our heart or is something else on the throne of our heart?

LET IT GROW

Praise the LORD.

Five times we read that phrase in just the first three verses. It is not meant for only our spiritual leaders, but for all to praise our Lord Jesus. We can do it standing in the House of God, within its courts, and anywhere. His glorious name is worthy of our praise, for it is pleasant and He is good.
We can sing His praises, shout out His praises, speak of how Great our God is. May our eyes be opened today so we see how great our God is.

That is our challenge for today-praise ye the LORD.

LET IT GO

Heavenly Father, You are so awesome, gracious, merciful, mighty to save, live-giver, forgiver, glorious, and beautiful. And I praise You
Hallelujah!

Blessings

O. T. #1391  "Blessings"
Feb. 20, 2019
Psalm 134
Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD.  Psalm 134:2

LET IT GLOW

Step 15: The Lord blesses and wants praise.

This is the last of the Psalms of the Ascent. Folks, we are here because God has blessed us. Look around and see His blessings. It is fitting that we should bless the Lord as the psalmist called us to do. So take a minute to bless the Lord, for He desires and deserves our praise. Truly, He is amazing God!

Verse 1 is an invitation as well as a command to bless the Lord. Whether we feel like it or not, bless the Lord.

Beth Moore wrote in her study book, Stepping Up:

A true psalmist praises his way to victory, knowing it will come because the praise itself renders the first  blow to the enemy's brow. God's faithfulness then calls for man's gratefulness. Inherent in the call to "bless Yahweh" is the cry to thank Him.

If you have not done the study of these psalms with Beth, I recommend it. What a blessing.

One day we will gather together at a glorious wedding and our clothes will be changed into immortal ones. What a day that will be! Jesus will accept the church, His bride. The One who is faithful and true will welcome us into His kingdom where we will dwell forever.

Are we doing what we came to do-bless and worship our Lord Jesus?

LET IT GROW

In your climb of 15 steps of ascent, is there a specific area in which God was calling you to take the next step? Mine was Ps. 124-The Lord is on my side; Ps. 125-The Lord surrounds His people; and Ps. 129-The Lord frees me from my enemies and oppressors. What is yours?

Are we ready to surrender everything to Him so room is made for what He wants to give us, blessings?

We are on a spiritual journey with Jesus. I know we can feel heavy-laden, over loaded, and stressed along the way, but there is a cloud of witnesses cheering us on. There is a Savior who endured the cross that wants to carry our load along the way. Let go of the loads God wants to loosen for us. So watch the road signs and warnings that God gives us. Let us help others along their journey, sharing the faithfulness of our Jesus. Pilgrims, let us sing praises to Jesus, for He is singing over us. Let us find strength for our next step in the One who is our strength. Our destination will be worth the trip.

As my trip to the Holy Land is quickly approaching, I am considering posting our agenda ahead of time, since I will not be able to post the parts of two weeks, March 5-12. Our focus will be on Jesus, where He walked, ministered, gave His life, and arose from the tomb. Time will also be spent in the Garden of Gethsemane, a solemn place of His preparation for the cross. I never even though that I could be blessed with being able to go on such a trip. We are going with a group of 5 other preachers and wives besides my husband. Also, a deacon from our church and his wife will be with us. So please pray for our safety and strength during that time. It will be a 27 hour journey coming and going. I'll be sharing highlights when we return.

LET IT GO

Jesus, You are the Living Savior. Help me share the blessings that You have given to me along my journey in this world. Bless that wonderful name of Jesus!
I let go and let You do whatever.

Dwelling in Unity

O. T. #1390 "Dwelling in Unity"
Feb. 19, 2019
Psalm 133
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! Psalm 133:1

LET IT GLOW

Step 14: The Lord leads us to dwell together in unity.

With David as the author of this tiny chapter, song, of only 3 verses, it could have been composed after the civil war between he and Saul or after Absalom's rebellion. This is the consensus of Bro. Jerry Falwell.

So you know I had to break down this wonderful key first verse of recommendation for us in the Hebrew:
Good refers to beautiful; fine; loving; merry; pleasant; precious;
Pleasant means delightful; sweet;
Brethren is a brother or kindred;
Dwell is to sit down as judge in quiet; marry; remain; bring again to place, return, seat;
Unity means a unit; unitedly; together; alike.

Now, let's plug in those meanings for a deeper look:
Behold, how good (beautiful, precious) and pleasant (delightful, sweet) it is for brethren (kindred)
to dwell (remain, return) together in unity (a unit, alike) !

Here is they way I like to read this verse using those definitions, that perhaps David meant for verse 1 to mean:
How precious and sweet it is for Christian brethren and kin folks to remain and return together in unity, with like mindedness.

Keep in mind that whenever these Psalms of Ascent were sung as the Israelites traveled up to Jerusalem to worship God in the Temple, a step at a time and psalm at time.

Now listen, traveling with family or good folks, no matter how sweet they are and how much you love them, can eventually get on your nerves, right? We don't get to choose our blood relatives. No matter how good, bad, ugly, rich, or poor, we still have to love them in spite of our differences. Yep.
With that said, God chooses us and places us in the family of God. When Jesus saves us, we should become part of a specific church body where we can serve Him. Experiences have taught me that even though we love God and each other, there are gong to be differences and hurt feelings.

That is where forgiveness and love abound. We can only do it through the Holy Spirit indwelling us, not our living in the flesh. Keep on lovin' them, for Jesus keeps on lovin' us.

LET IT GROW

What is it like when a church or a family dwells in unity?

• It is like the fragrant anointing oil that was poured extravagantly and abundantly over Aaron's head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Aaron was the first High Priest.
• Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mt. Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. (NLT)

The dew changed into rain as it came down the mountains, covering it like a blanket.

Unity is to blanket  the brotherhood of believers from north to south, east to west. (Falwell)

Read what John Calvin had to say about this verse:

God commands His blessing where peace is cultivated; by which is meant, that He testifies how much He is pleased with concord amongst men, by showering blessings upon them.

Isn't it a blessing when we are dwelling in unity? Peace with each other and love is shown as a result.

LET IT GO
     Teach and remind me to dwell in unity and harmony with my brethren, Jesus.

Clothed With Shame

O.T.#1389  "Clothed with Shame"
Feb. 18, 2019
Psalm 132-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Step 13: The Lord is my help. (verses 11-18)

God is always a promise keeper. He made a covenant with David which was conditional. There would always be a one of David's line sitting upon the throne of Israel, ruling. Jesus was one of those of the lineage of David. One day, He will sit upon the throne of David as He rules for a thousand years in Jerusalem. God has fulfilled His vow to David, since Christ will reign forever.

Now this covenant was conditional according to verse 12-they must keep God's covenant and decrees. God's grace was shone many times when Israeli kings went astray and worshiped foreign gods, but there was a remnant that stayed true and were covenant-keepers.

In speaking of Jerusalem, the city of David, Zion, what does God say He will do in verses 15 and 16:

• He will abundantly bless the inhabitants of Jerusalem.
• He will satisfy the hungry.
• He will clothe with salvation.
• Godly people will shout for joy.

What more could we need? Spiritually speaking, we are children of Abraham and David, when we become saved.  Are we teaching our lineage to worship only Jesus?

Are we promise keepers?
Are we obedient to God's Word?
Do we sing our hearts out, praising our Savior?

LET IT GROW

Got any enemies? Look at verse 18a, His enemies will I clothe with shame...

They are going to be dressed in dirty rags of shame. Their sins will not be covered with the blood of Jesus because they did not believe in Him. Thus, they will be clothed with shame. What a contrast with the robes of white for the priests to be clothes.
Let us be faithful servants of the King Jesus and not be ashamed with this life is over.

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for providing a way for me to be a part of Your family.
May I and my lineage always worship and serve You.

Shout for Joy

O.T. #1388  "Shout for Joy"
Feb. 15, 2019
Psalm 132
Let priests be clothed with righteousness; and let Thy saints shout for joy. Psalm 132:9

LET IT GLOW

Step 13: The Lord is my help.

Had any restless nights? I like to pray and read God's Word whenever that happens to me. David had a restless night in our chapter today.

This psalm is not counted as one which David wrote. MacArthur considers it to have been written when Solomon dedicated the Temple (2 Chron. 6:41). Solomon quoted his father David in verses 8-10. We will not get ahead of our self and look at verses 1-7 first:

• In his prayer, David asked the Lord to remember him and his hardships that he endured. (verse 1)
• Even in his affliction, David made a vow unto the Lord, which is not recorded. (verse 2)
• He desired a resting place that was permanent for the Ark. (verse 3)

When David became king over Israel, he built a beautiful palace in which he resided, but there was no elaborate Temple in which God resided at that time. We read of the building of the Tent where the Ark of the Covenant was built back in the book of Exodus. When its presence was with Israel, then it was a symbol of God's presence with Israel. It bothered David so much (He lived in a better dwelling than God.) that he couldn't sleep, so he began to lay out plans for the Temple to house the Ark. (His son, Solomon, actually built the Temple, although he used David's plans and materials accumulated.) (verse 4)

Are we restless until God's will in done in our life?
Is there something that God has put on our heart and we can't rest until is completed?

LET IT GROW

Now look at verses 8-10. We know that the Ark was placed within the Holy of Holies. The priests attended to the Tabernacle. The Levites wore their white robes, symbolizing righteousness. A select choir of Levites sang praises to God in worship.

Psalm 32:11 says, Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.

Happiness is not only our privilege; it is our duty as well. (Falwell)

Hmm. Something to chew on, huh?
Are we clothed in the righteousness by the blood of Jesus Christ?
Are we shouting for joy when we consider all that Jesus saved us from and our eternal home His is building?

LET IT GO

Lord, in my restlessness, speak to my heart.
As Isaiah said, "Here am I, Lord, send me."
Change my heart to one that shouts and sings for joy because of You.

What is Love?

Feb. 14, 2019
What is Love?

Valentines Day is a day we set aside to show people that we love them.  So let's do something different here today.
God describes love for us in so many Scriptures. First, He reassures us of His love for us, His children. Then we are told to love others as Christ loves us. Friend, you are loved by God and by me.
Take a look at the two kinds of love.

LET THE LOVE OF GOD GLOW

1. First, there is agape love, which is the highest form of love, God's love.

• Jesus tells us in John 15:9, As the Father hath love Me, so have I loved you: continue ye in My love.
• But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Rom. 5:8)
• Paul declares this: I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of god, which is Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom. 8:38-39)
• The Disciple John tells us: Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God; therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not. (1 John 3:2)
• And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God is him.  (1 John 4:16) 

LET THE LOVE OF GOD GROW

2. The second form of love is phileo, which is brotherly love. We are reminded to love others as ourself:

• For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.  (Galatians 5:13)
• With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love. (Eph. 4:2)
• Jesus told us in Matthew 5:44, But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.
• Jesus declared His love demonstrated in John 15:12-13, This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have love you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

One more verse that describes our love is found in 1 Corinthians 13:7: Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Does love put limits or restrictions on it? Nope. All things means everything is include. It forgives unconditionally. It never looses hope in the one you love.

LET THE LOVE OF GOD GO

... to others, loving them unconditionally without expecting love in return.

May God bless you with an over flow of His love today, sweet friends.

Humility

O. T. #1387  "Humility"
Feb. 13, 2019
Psalm 131
LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me. Psalm 131:1

LET IT GLOW

Step 12: The Lord gives peace to the humble.



You know, when we take our eyes off of people and put them upon the LORD, we become like David, not haughty, which means to soar; be lofty; exalt; higher; lift up; be proud.

And when we do get prideful, He has a way of humbling us. David's heart is not exalted, lifted high with pride. Look up, child of God. So let not our eyes look down on others.

Humility is the truest sign of intimacy with God. I think our pride is a strobe light flashing how ignorant we are about God, despite our lengthy quiet times and in-depth studies. Above all things besides love, humility is the truest sign of intimacy with God. Like little else, a humble spirit says we really do "get it." (Beth Moore)

Don't seek things that will make us prideful is our lesson from David today. I may have mentioned it before, but both our car and truck are over 10 years old. Sure, we have had to spend money on the things on them that wear out over time, but at least we don't have a car payment. Younger folks just don't understand why we don't get one of those $50,000 trucks. My answer is that they still run. We choose to spend our money on kingdom work and mission trips, instead. It has become a status symbol, don't you think? Beside, I know it would puff us up with pride to drive such a beauty.

LET IT GROW

From what has David weaned himself? Makes us wonder when reading verse 2.

William Jay (1769-1853) answers,

Self-sufficiency, self-will, self-seeking. From creatures and things of the world-not, indeed, to their use, but as to any dependence upon them for his happiness and portion.

Do we depend on something to bring us happiness other than the Lord Jesus?
If we are weaned from self, then we will think of others.

LET IT GO

Lord, when I look to You, I am humbled. You humbled Yourself and died on the cross for me.
Use me today for Your glory.
Open my eyes to see the needs of others.
Help me to have a gentle and quiet spirit, which You count of great worth in Your sight. (1 Peter 3:4)

Wait and Hope

O. T. #1385  "Wait and Hope"
Feb. 12, 2019
Psalm 130
I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in His Word do I hope. Psalm 130:5

LET IT GLOW

Step 11: The Lord gives us hope.

Is there any thing that you are waiting for God to give, a prayer for Him to answer, a deliverance for despair? David did also.

Did you notice how many times David called upon the name of the LORD/Lord?
While in the depths of despair, David is crying out to the LORD, some 8 times in this song. His focus is on sin, not the consequences of sin.

There are three different Hebrew words and meanings for LORD/Lord:

1. Lord in verses 1, 3(second), and 6, is Adonay or Adoni, which refers to master, controller, sovereign;
2. LORD found in verse 2, is Yahh (pronounced yaw). spelled Jah, is the sacred name;
3. LORD, used in verses 5 and 7, is Yehovah (Jehovah), which is Self-Existent or Eternal.

How does David recognize his LORD?

• He cries out to Him from the depths of his heart. (verse 1)
• He brings supplications, asking God to hear him. (verse 2)
• He is forgiving and to be feared. (verse 4)
• He gives us hope, mercy, and plenteous redemption. (verse 7)

God has plans for us, as Jeremiah says in 29:11. His plans are for welfare, a future and a hope, not disaster.

None of us could stand before a Holy God if it were not for He forgiveness and our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. It is His unfailing love that keeps on forgiving us as we miss the mark and sin. Wow! such mercy!

LET IT GROW

I skipped verses 5 and 6 in the list above.

Hoping and waiting are inseparably united. All who would hope must wait. The psalmist firmly believed that God was gracious and forgiving, and out of that confident faith sprang the wellspring of hope. (Falwell)

Are we waiting for the Lord more than a watchman waits for morning to relieve his watch? Is Jesus your expected Deliverer? Do we find hope in God's Word? He throws our sins as far as the east is from the west and remembers them no more, Psalm 103:12 tells us.

LET IT GO

O Linda, put your hope in Jesus, the Self-Existent and Eternal LORD, for with Him is unfailing love and full redemption. My sins make me hopeless without Your hope of forgiveness. Believe in Jesus today.

Cut Free

O. T. #1385  "Cut Free"
Feb. 11, 2019
Psalm 129
The LORD is righteous; He has cut me free from the cords of the wicked. Psalm 129:4 NIV

LET IT GLOW

Step 10: The Lord frees me from enemies and oppressors.

Can't face today much less tomorrow? Are you bound by an enemy? Learn how to be cut free from the cords that have you bound. Read on, dear one.

What do we read about the LORD our God when it comes to our enemies and oppressors?

• He is righteous. (verse 4a) That never changes, for God always does what is right.
• He frees us from the cords of the wicked that bind us. (verse 4b)
• He gives me victory. (verse 2)

Who do we know that is bound by cords to fear, financial difficulties, a bad habit, to self?
God says that He will free us. I have paraphrased some scriptures:
He rescues us because He delights in us. (Ps.18:19)
He won't forsake you and me, and gives us self-confidence. (Ps. 71:17-18)
He will rescue His children and will contend with the one who contends with us. (Isaiah 49:25)
However, let us be cautious:
Don't rejoice when our enemy falls or stumbles, lest the Lord sees it and turns His anger from him. (Prov. 24:17-18)

Fear is a liar, as well as the devil.  They cannot hold us, for we read that God will free us. Ask God to free you today, dear one. Forgive our oppressors and enemies. Press on with faith and love of Jesus in our hearts. It will get better. After all, the worse may be behind us.

LET IT GROW

Let us shift from the one that is oppressed to the one doing the oppression:

• Haters will be driven back in disgrace. (verses 5, HCSB)
• They will wither like grass. (verse 6)
• They will be empty handed. (verse 7)
• They will not be blessed. (verse 8)

Our oppressors may win some battles, but they won't win this war. (Beth Moore)

Hold them guilty by God the Judge; let them fall by their own devices; thrust them out for they are rebellious against You God. (Psalm 5:8-12)

Paraphrasing:
Be careful, friends, to not slander your people or neighbor, but love them. (Leviticus 19:16-18)
When an enemy looses something, return it to him when you find it; help him with a heavy load.
(Exodus 23:4-5)
Vengeance is God's right alone. so let Him repay for us, not us repaying evil.

Let our hearts and mouths be in tuned to God.

Jesus was bound by chords on the cross by love for you and me, not by the evil ones. Our sins put Him there. He was set free after enduring the pain and death in our place. We deserve paying for our sins, not Him. Then Jesus arose three days later to live forever. He is seated at the right hand of God, interceding for you and me as we pray and ask forgiveness of our sins. Such love!!

Do you know my Jesus? You can by simply praying and asking Him to forgive your sins and be your Savior.

LET IT GO

My oppressors from my youth have not gained victory over me nor prevailed against me.
My God has freed me from their cords.
Lord, You are righteous and do what is right.
I trust You, for I am a child of the Living God!

How to be Blessed

O. T. #1384  "How to be Blessed"
Feb. 8, 2019
Psalm 128
Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in His ways. Psalm 128:1

LET IT GLOW

Step 9: The Lord blesses those faithful.

Now before we dive into today's chapter, let me say up front that I do not support  a prosperity gospel that health, wealth, and prosperity come to those who have enough faith. Although, I think that God does respond to our obedience with blessings.

Here are some verses that show we are blessed when we obey:
In Luke 11:27-28, Jesus says we are blessed whenever we hear the Word of God and keep it.
In John 13:14-17, Jesus explains that we will be happy when we serve another.

So I looked up the meaning of blessed. There are two Hebrew words for it, esher and barak.
Esher (eh'sher) refers to happiness; how happy!
Barak means to bless God (as an act of adoration); kneel down; praise; thank.

Do you see the difference in the two? The first one is what God does and the second meaning is the action we do.
Who does God bless in verse 1? Everyone that feareth the Lord and follows Him in obedience.
If we are walking in God's ways, we are going to love our enemies, be a giving person, live faithful to our spouse, and love our family. Are we doing those things?

I like what is said in Life Application Study Bible:

A good family life is a reward fro following God. The values outlined in God's Word include love, service, honesty, integrity, and prayer. Those help all relationships, and they are especially vital to home life. Is your home life heavenly or hectic? Rewarding and obeying God's Word is a good place to start to make your family all that it should be.

LET IT GROW

The MacArthur Bible Commentary gives 4 blessings mentions in this chapter:

1. provisions
2. prosperity
3. reproducing partner
4. flourishing progeny.

Two realms of blessings are mentioned: personal blessing and national blessing.

We will be happy and it will go well with us when we respect and obey God. We will have food from our labor, children around the table, and see our grandchildren. Does it get any better?

LET IT GO

Insert your name:
Linda will be happy when she fears the Lord and walks in His ways.
She will eat from her labor blessed.
She will have children around the table.
She will be blessed when she fears and stands in awe of God.
Linda will enjoy life and prosper, so enjoy your grandchildren.

Children-A Blessing or a Curse

O. T. #1383  "Children-A Blessing or a Curse"
Feb. 7, 2019
Psalm 127
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD; and the fruit of the womb is His reward. 
Psalm 127:3

LET IT GLOW

Step 8: The Lord builds our life and family.

How fitting that this chapter comes right now when our states are allowing the murder of unborn babies, known as abortion. Even right before it is born at full term, it can legally be killed and dissected in the state of New York. God have mercy! Awaken the rest of our nation to love the innocent babies, God. Convict mothers that the precious unborn life has a soul and a purpose in Your kingdom work. Let the babies be a blessing, not a curse. Christians, pray for our nation to change the laws and to make it illegal to have and perform an abortion. Our state legislators are proposing a new law that will make it illegal in our state if the nation passes it also. (I am sure by now you can tell which side I am on concerning this issue.)

This particular psalm was written by Solomon.

Read verse 1. Except the LORD build the house, they labor in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.

It doesn't matter whether you live in a mansion or in a cabin. We can spend boo coos of money and the best materials to build any type of house, but our labor is in vain (uselessness) unless the Lord builds that house, that home, that family inside it.

The house can either be built upon sand or rock. Jesus described the one built on sand-when the winds blow, it falls. So when the storms of life come, that house, family, built on anything other than Jesus Christ will not last. However, the house built upon the Rock, Jesus the Savior, will stand firm in faith and no storms can destroy that house, family, home. It is the Word of God that needs to be the foundation of our home. Then we let Jesus build our faith and love and obedience. A bond so strong that nothing can break it or separate it.

The watchman would be a lookout protecting the city, alerting it to approaching enemies. Unless the Lord builds the city, it's effort are in vain, useless. All that labor spent on anything (house, city, nation) other than God is good for nothing.

Are we building our family, home, house, kingdom, or life with God or without Him?
Is Jesus building our character to be more like Him?


LET IT GROW

Now that we got our house build correctly, let's fill it with children. I like to pick apart verses, you know. Here we go. In the Hebrew language of the Old Testament, here are the meanings of words in our key verse:
Heritage is something inherited; an heirloom;
Fruit refers to a reward; first-fruit;
Womb is as they be born;
Reward means payment of contract; benefit; compensation; wages; worth.

Now plugging in the meanings to the verse makes it read this way:
Children are our heirloom, an inheritance from the Lord, and the fruit or reward is that they are born to us as a reward, payment of contract, or benefit from Him.

Do you have any rewards in your house, family? Are we treating our children as a benefit or reward from God? Is unconditional love present, along with prayer and Bible study? Are we helping them hide God's Word in their heart so they do not sin against Him?
Choose this day whom ye shall serve.

LET IT GO

May my life and family and home be built upon the love of Jesus Christ.
God, please stop all abortions in our nation and forgive us of this murderings.
Help us Christians to take a stand for the unborn in our state.

Tears of Sadness Turned Into Joy

O. T. #1382  "Tears of Sadness Turned Into Joy"
Feb. 6, 2019
Psalm 125
They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.  Psalm 125:5

LET IT GLOW

Step 7: The Lord gives joy.

Israel had spent 70 years in Babylonian captivity. Most of the Jews had turned away from God, but a remnant remained faithful, such as Daniel and his 3 friends. Jerusalem and the Temple's destruction had been predicted by Jeremiah and Ezekiel. Now the Jews were sent back home by King Cyrus, to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple. They sang this song of an unknown author.

Instead of sorrow, the Jews were experiencing:

• Deliverance by God which had only been a dream for so many years. (verse 1)
• Restoration of fortunes; (verses 1 and 4)
• Laughter and singing with joy; (verse 2)
• Great things the LORD had done for them; (verse 3)
• Tears sown were turned into shouts of joy; (verse 5)
• Armloads of blessings, laughing, returning home after leaving home with heavy hearts and tears. (verse 6)

Did you count the number of times the Lord's name was mentioned in this chapter? I counted four.
god did it, folks. He delivered the Jews from captivity when it was time, in  His timing and in His way. Their dreams were turned into reality. Laughter filled their mouths and joy filled their hearts. They were carrying armloads of blessings-materials needed to rebuild everything in Jerusalem, which the king sent with them.

Now, what does this lesson say to you and me? God will turn our sorrow into singing, our tears into joy.

I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. Psalm 27:13-14 NIV

Are you in a deep valley, whether a valley of sorrow or despair, be confident that God is with you and will act. He will one day turn your tears of sadness into tears of joy.

Oh how I needed this verse today. Our family is in a valley, going through a tough valley, but my God is going to turn my tears of sadness into tears of joy, one day. It may take a while for His will to be done, but it will be done. I have faith that He is working things out. And when He does, you will hear my shouts of joy, all the way to your house. Meanwhile, I continue thank my Heavenly Father for what He is going to do and give Him praise in the valley.
In the meantime, let us keep growing in God's grace and in faith in Him.

LET IT GROW

So until that day when joy comes, let me share a little bit of joy and laughter that God has sent my way while I wait.
It was one cold Sunday night when we returned home from a church service that we saw him at our truck door. I was a little afraid to open my door and go to the house. But my husband got out and protected me as we walked in the dark. Then our visitor started jumping on me, showing he was friendly. Have you guessed what it was? Someone had dropped off a dog. Now, this dog is sort of still in a puppy stage. He is part hound dog, but with short ears and short legs. That is what makes me laugh, seeing him so short. He is the happiest dog I have ever seen. He loves running around the yard.

Finally, I had to feed him and name him. One problem the dog had was his habit of chasing cars down the dirt road. So guess what I named him-Chase. (He didn't seem like a Joy.) He is getting better at not chasing them, since I go outside and call him back, yet, he does chase us. Well, this funny looking dog has captured my heart. (One bad thing is he chases my cats, who barely come out from under the house to eat.)

Chase has lightened my load while I am waiting on God to answer my prayers. We play kick ball, run around the yard, and share love.

LET IT GO and Let God Handle It

Are You Feeling Surrounded?

O. T. #1381  "Are Feeling You Surrounded?"
Feb. 4, 2019
Psalm 125
They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion which cannot be removed, but abideth forever.
As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about His people from henceforth even forever.  Psalm 125:1-2

LET IT GLOW


Step 6: The Lord surrounds His people.

I recall being surrounded by fear when I looked out the bus window and saw soldiers with automatic guns on their shoulders looking inside the bus. We were at a check point in a foreign country and they were looking for illegals in their country. Whew! Talk about a time to trust the Lord! Of course, we were ok and free to go after showing our passports. We were there to do God's work and He was surround us, keeping us safe.

How does verse 1 describe the people who trust in the Lord?
They are like a mountain that will not be shaken, that lasts forever.

The Hebrew meaning for the word trust is to be hie (to go quickly, hasten) for refuge; be confident or sure; secure.

Beth Moore asks three questions concerning these definitions:

1. How would you describe confidence in the Lord? He will do what is right and just for me.
2. How would you describe security in the Lord? He will protect me, not allow my faith to be shaken, and keep me strong spiritually while depending upon Him, loving me through whatever comes my way.
3. How would you describe being sure abut the Lord? He is positively in control of everything in my life.

(The answers are mine.) How would you answer those questions today?
Are we finding every bit of our security in the Lord, although He is unseen?

Look up Psalm 30:6-7. replacing the "I" with your name as I did:
In Linda's prosperity, she said, "I shall not be moved."
LORD, by Thy favor Thou hast made Linda's mountain to stand strong: Thou didst hide Thy face, and Linda was troubled.

Self-security and over confidence is not going to get it, folks. It will crumble every time. But when our trust and security, is in God, we will stand strong on top of a mountain that will not be shaken.
Also, our sure thing will crumble like dry clay when our trust is not in God. However, when we are walking by faith and not by sight on our journey, we will not walk alone and will be blessed.


LET IT GROW

Where is God's position concerning His people?
When things around us look impossible, He surrounds us, now and forever. Now that is security, isn't it?

Psalm 34:7 says, The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear Him and delivereth them.

Psalm 139:5 tells us, Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid Thine hand upon me.

Even when David was enduring overwhelming anguish, how did he describe God in Psalm 116:5-6?
God is gracious, righteous, merciful, and compassionate.
Are you in need of God's encircling protection.


LET IT GO

Jesus, surround me with Your love and protection today.

If He Had Not Been on My Side

O. T. #1380  "If He Had Not Been on My Side"
Feb. 4, 2019
Psalm 124
If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us... Psalm 124:2

LET IT GLOW

Step 5: The Lord is on my side.

I wonder how may times Israel said our key verse. David was recognizing God's protection in the first 5 verses and God's provision in the last 3 verses. How many times did men (enemies) rise up against God's beloved Israel and protect them as Israel's Almighty God? How many times did they experience a dependable, willing and able merciful God when they knew not how they would survive?
Remember the two great body of waters they crossed? The Red Sea they crossed when pursued by Pharaoh's mighty army and the Jordan River when they were in pursue of the Promised Land. Yep, God parted those waters that could have drown the two million chosen people of Israel.
Also, He knew what was before them, behind them, and causing fear and doubt on that day of crossing. What about us or our loved ones? This same God can do the same for them-part the waters of doubt or fear that floods their soul.

Did God come through or what?! As His children, our Heavenly Father goes to great lengths to meet our needs. Now it may not be in the way we think or ask for Him to do it. Never the less, He does His purpose. His will is accomplished.

When overwhelming odds are against us, with God there is always a way out because He is the Creator of all that exists. No problem is beyond His ability to solve; no circumstance is too difficult for Him. We can turn to the Creator for help in our time of need, for He is on our side. God will provide a way out; we need only trust Him and look for it. (Life Application Study Bible)

LET IT GROW

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

It is the willing and cheerful attitude of the sacrificer that pleases God. The one acceptable sacrifice to God is praise and thanksgiving out of a pure heart. (Falwell)

Do we ever think of what might have happened had God not intervened for us?
As for me, I would have grown up with a crippled heart valve after rheumatic fever not allowing me to be active; dead without His breath of life after surgery; again, dead without His keeping my heart beating after a colonoscopy depleted potassium and sodium from my body; and a basket case in depression after I was insulted about the way I acted that was supposedly so unbecoming of a Christian.
Yes, if the Lord had not been on my side, where would I be today?!!

So I daily pour out my thanks and praise upon Jesus for being there for and with me through it all. What a story of His mercy and grace He has written upon my heart and life! That is why I write this blog, to encourage folks like me, by sharing what He has done for me, showing that He can do for you.

How about you, friend?

LET IT GO

My help is in the name of the Lord God, Maker of heaven and earth.
Thank You Father for choosing me as Your child.
Thank You that You are working all things out for my good and Your glory.
Thank You for being for me.
Your love is amazing, steady and unchanging; Your love carries me.
Hallelujah! To Thine be the glory for ever and ever!

Disrespected and Despised

O. T. #1379  "Disrespected and Despised"
Feb. 2, 2019
Psalm 123
Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the proud. Psalm 123:4


LET IT GLOW

Step 4: The Lord changes disrespect.

Who is the psalmist looking to for help? Verse 1 says he looks to God, Jehovah. He is in the heavens, not on a journey like Baal, who was the false god of the heathens. Day or night our Heavenly Father can be approached through prayer.
Are we calling on God, day and night? He loves us so much that He wants us to call upon Him. He is ready to show us great and mighty things, to do exceedingly above and beyond what we can imagine.

David is looking for mercy from God, too. He can't take it anymore. He has been treated with exceedingly (abundantly, greatly) contempt (disrespect, shamed, despised) by the proud. They are disrespecting David. They are despising him.

Ever felt like that? What did you do? David looked to the Lord. He will change disrespect.



LET IT GROW

When was the last time you felt like someone or something was going to eat you alive? Or a situation was honestly going to drown you? How about words that rip you to shreds? Or raging waters of circumstances were taking us under to drown us?
Notice, I didn't ask if you ever had that happen. I am fairly sure we have all had that happen to us.
Broken hearts, disappointments, trials with no solution, prayers without an answer, no respect. Hold on sweet one. The Lord isn't finished yet. Look up, pray on your knees, keep walking in the grace He gives for each step. It is coming, for God's glory.

The psalmist was experiencing disrespect and being despised by the proud. His eyes were waiting upon the Lord until He had mercy upon him. What more can we do? That is our answer.

Jesus was despised and rejected, but He continued to do His Father's will.


LET IT GO

Lord Jesus, You are on Your throne on high.
I am Your servant, You are my Master.
I look to You for answers and mercy.
Be gracious to me when others disrespect me.
There are scorners and scoffers around me.
Guard my soul. Surround me with Your love.