Day 3 - Week 94 - Luke 2:11 "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."

Jesus came to us over 2,000 years ago in the city of David (Bethlehem) and brought with Him good news that would be great joy to all the people --- because He came as Christ the Lord.

Christ, Christos in Greek, meaning "anointed."
Lord, Kurious in Greek, meaning "a title of honor expressive of respect and reverence, with which servants greet their master."

The angels knew just who Jesus the baby was --- they had seen Him just moments before in heaven with His Father.  They knew that the Father had anointed Him for the special purpose of redemption of mankind.  But they also knew Him as their Lord.  They were very aware of their servanthood to Him, and they held Him in great respect and reverence...because they really knew Him and the glory from which He had come.

Along with His mission of redemption and salvation, Jesus also came to show us who God is. I have been studying, along with some of my family, "Behold your God", a study written by John Snyder, with the intense purpose of "rethinking God biblically."  It is probably one of the most unusual studies that I have ever encountered because it forces you to start really looking at what the Bible tells us about who God is, and doesn't allow you to stay comfortable in the things you've been told about God.

From this past week's study, I can't seem to get Psalm 50:21 out of my head.  In God's rebuke to Israel, He says, "You thought that I was altogether like you."  I have been so guilty of bringing God down to my level.
No matter how hard we try to make Him like us, God isn't like us at all.  Unless we get a correct view of God, we will never have a correct view of ourselves.  He is high and holy --- we most certainly are not.  He is God, and we need to start taking Him seriously.

The angels knew who Jesus was, and they called Him, "Christ the Lord."

While I may call Him "Lord", what does my life say?  How often do I reverse the role and expect God to serve me?  How often do my prayers center on my needs, rather than seeking ways to glorify my Master?

"You thought I was altogether like you."  Oh God, forgive me.  

Day 2 - Week 94 - Luke 2:11, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."

We especially celebrate Christ's first coming ever year at Christmas time.  It is a time of remembering that night, long ago, when angels heralded the Savior's arrival...the long-awaited gift that would reconcile humanity to their Creator.  He came as a baby, entering into the world that He had created, and yet the arrival of the Creator went relatively unnoticed by His creation.

Robert J. Morgan writes these words comparing Christ's first coming with His second...I think they are well worth pondering.  For just as certainly as Christ came the first time as a baby, He will come the second time as a King!

When Jesus came the first time, He came wrapped in swaddling clothes.  When He comes again, He'll be dressed in the vestments of victory.

When He came the first time, there was no room in the inn.  When He comes again, the whole world will be His domain.

He came the first time as King of the Jews.  He will come again as King of kings and Lord of lords.

He came the first time to be crucified.  He will come again to be glorified.

He came the first time as the Author of our salvation.  He will come again as the Finisher of our faith.

He came the first time with a baby's cry.  When He comes again, it will be with the roar of the lion of the tribe of Judah.

His first coming was known only to a few shepherds, a handful of wise men, and a few residents of Bethlehem.  When He comes again, it'll be as lightning flashing east to west, He will come in the clouds of glory, and the entire universe will hear the news.

When He came at Bethlehem, the angels sang, "Glory to God in the highest."  When He comes again, they will sing, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever." 

Our Lord came --- Our Lord is coming again!  And upon His second arrival, there will be no heralding of angels in the night sky to a few obscure shepherds... no, this time all of His Creation will acknowledge Him for who He is....King of kings and Lord of lords, worthy of all honor, praise and glory, forever and ever!

 

 

 

 

 

Day 1 - Week 94 - Jesus has arrived!

We are in the series of verses regarding our Savior's first and second comings.  The first five verses have to do with His first advent...the next three will herald His second!  The earth received great news over 2,000 years ago, but when Christ returns and this world comes to its destined end, then the good news of that silent night in Bethlehem will be completed.

So far in this series we have learned:

Isaiah 9:6  "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be on His shoulders.  And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor,The mighty God, The eternal Father, The Prince of Peace."

Luke 2:10   "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for I bring you good news of great joy, which will be for all the people.' "

Now we add to Luke 2:10 with Luke 2:11, the next words coming from the angels to the shepherds in the fields close to Bethlehem,

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."

According to Old Testament prophecy, the Messiah would come from Bethlehem...the angels made sure their pronouncement included the affirming testimony that Christ's birthplace was right on target to fulfill the prophetical pronouncements made centuries before.

Micah 5:2  "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times."

God's pronouncements are always completed just as He has proclaimed...Christ did come out of Bethlehem.  He came on the exact day that God had known from the beginning of time would be the day...and He will coe again on the day that God has always known He would send Him to redeem those who know Him.

The prophets of old were correct --- and yet many people missed Christ's arrival, many missed His ministry, and many missed His death and resurrection.  Sometimes we wonder how they could have been there and missed it.  Yet we have been given God's written Word, we have access to everything we need to know His message and His voice calling to us, and there are still so many who are missing Him and so many others who are satisfied in keeping their knowledge of Him on a very minimal level.

He came, He lived, He died, He rose again and He lives now!  He is knowable through God's Word and through His Spirit, available to all those who believe.  He wants to know us deeply and intimately.   I pray for the desire to know Him on an increasingly intense level.

Christ came to a manger in Bethlehem - angels announced His coming.  I believe deep within each of us His Spirit announces His readiness to come into our individual hearts, to be born within us just as He was born in that manger.  Listen to the angels' words as if they were addressed to you personally...

"To YOU, this day, is ready to be born in your heart, a SAVIOR, which is CHRIST THE LORD."

Day 3 - Week 93 - Luke 2:10 'But the angel said to them, ' Do not be afraid, for I bring you good news of great joy, which will be for all the people."

Robert J. Morgan takes this one small verse and unpacks it to show just how powerful the proclamation found in Luke 2:10-12 actually is.

Just in our verse of this week, Luke 2:10, Morgan details six different "types" of news the angels brought:

1.  LIBERATING NEWS - Don't be afraid.  The coming of Christ banishes fear from human hearts.

2.  SUPERNATURAL NEWS - It was given by an angel from heaven!

3.  PERSONAL NEWS - "I bring you.."

4.  GOOD NEWS - "I bring you good news..."

5.  HAPPY NEWS - "I bring you good news of great joy..."

6.  GLOBAL NEWS - "I bring you good news of great joy, which will be for all the people."

Christ's first coming was earth-shattering news...and yet, that first night, it only shattered the world of a few humble shepherds.  The rest of the earth slumbered, while "shepherds watched their flocks by night."  God chose to proclaim the coming of His Son to earth to the lowly and unnoticed.  They would be His first messengers of the good news.

Later, Christ would choose twelve humble disciples to carry His message of forgiveness and salvation to the rest of the world.  Fishermen, tax collectors...no one of any real earthly note.  But what a difference they made through their wholehearted faithfulness to the task that Christ assigned to them.  A commitment that they held fast, up to and including martyrs' deaths.

I pray for that kind of faithfulness and commitment to Christ's call on my life.  I pray that I will always proclaim the love of God as exhibited through Jesus....it is such good, good news.  We cannot keep it to ourselves!

Makes you want to stand on a street corner shouting like the newsboys of a few generations ago, "Extra, Extra, read all about it!"  For of all the headlines of all of the world's cataclysmic events, none produced an effect as to compare to that of the birth of one very special child on that quiet night in Bethlehem!

Day 2 - Week 93 - Luke 2:10 "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people."

Christ's first coming...that's what we're focused on right now.  When our Savior came the first time, He came as a helpless infant, born in a manger...with angels announcing His arrival.

His arrival was heralded as an event of "good news" and "great joy."  Does Jesus bring that to your life?  What is His good news?

In this world of ours in 2013 we are bombarded with bad news...think about the news we have experienced in just the last twelve months.

Globally:  North Korea launched war missiles; gunmen stormed our Embassy in Benghazi, Libya and killed four Americans; Civil War in Syria spilling over into Lebanon with ongoing killing.
Nationally:  Superstorm Sandy plummeted the east coast; shooting at Newtown, Connecticut, took the lives of 20 first-graders plus teachers; multiple bombs exploded during the Boston Marathon.
Locally:  Over 40 Texans died from West Nile virus; a mile-wide Category 4 tornado hit Oklahoma and claimed over 24 lives; a fertilizer plant exploded in West, Texas, resulting in 12 deaths and over 200 injuries.

Our lives, here on earth, never seem to have a shortage of bad news.  It just doesn't seem to ever stop...and here's an encouraging note, it never will!  While we remain on this earth, we will have troubles.  Jesus told us that much...remember when He said, "In this world, you will have trouble...."  But He gave us a tremendous second half to that proclamation, "....but take heart, I have overcome the world."  

There's the good news that the angels sang of!  Jesus' coming brought the very, very good news that we can be assured that no matter what happens in this world, He has overcome the world and brings with Him the promise of more...more than this world that we see and touch, which can be tremendously wonderful, but which can also inflict fears and sorrows.  For unless the headlines listed above affected you or your family personally, you probably got through them with little anguish.  But when this world's bad news comes into our personal worlds, then we need to know that there is something more.  We need some really, really GOOD NEWS that overcomes.

That's what Jesus' coming brings to us personally...HE is the good news.  He lived on earth to show us God's love, He died to give us redemption, He rose to give us assurance of eternal life, He lives on high to be our advocate and intercessor, and He is coming again to claim His role as eternal King.  There is more ---- oh yes, so much more!

Good news .... for all people... and for each of us individually.  Open your heart to His coming!

Day 1 - Week 93 - What is my problem?

I just realized that it has been 3 weeks since my last post!  How different than when I started...I was reminded by my sweet friend Paula that I was posting five times a week initially.  If you have been traveling this journey with me, you know I have had tragedy to work through in these last months, but while the dark days of that time created delays and gaps, I have come to realize that this most recent lull cannot be attributed to that...I realize that I am dragging my feet at this time because we are at week 93, and that means if I keep at this on a regular basis, in seven short weeks, we're through!  While I'm acting like I'm ready for that, I'm not!  I still know that this...whatever this is..is always waiting for me to return.  "This" has become my companion for over two years, a very faithful companion, always there when I sit down to hear God's Word and share it with "you."  (Whoever "you" are...you have also become my journey mate along this road of Scripture.)  So forgive me, again, for another lull...but this time it is a lull of apprehension as to what happens when "this" is over and "you" are no longer traveling by my side.  Then I am reminded of John 14:27...remember that one?  Peace I leave with you.  My peace I give to you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Your heart must not be troubled or fearful.   So, even though "this" will not be an ongoing project, God will provide another source of ministry to me and for me.  No need to fear!

So, let's get this thing done!  Let's do Weeks 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99 and 100!!  Reviewing our last few sections first...

The Alpha and Omega (8)
Isaiah 9:6  "For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given, and the government shall be on His shoulders.  And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, The mighty God, The eternal Father, The Prince of Peace."

The Lord is My Shepherd (6)
Psalm 23:1  "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want."
Psalm 23:2  "He maketh me lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters."
Psalm 23:3  "He restoreth my soul.  He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake."
Psalm 23:4  "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me."
Psalm 23:5  "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over."
Psalm 23:6  "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

Faith: Trusting God and Resting in His Word (12)
Ephesians 2:8 "For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift."
Ephesians 2:9 "Not by works, so that no one can boast."
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
Colossians 3:15 "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."
Colossians 3:16 "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God."
Colossians 3:17 "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God's power for salvation to everyone who believe, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."
Romans 1:17 "For in it God's righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith."
Psalm 56:3 "When I am afraid, I will trust in You."
2 Chronicles 16:9 "The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him."
Hebrews 11:6 "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

And adding another verse reminding us of Christ's first advent to our earthly world....

Luke 2:10  "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. ' "

Christ's coming...don't miss some of the descriptions...good news...great joy...for ALL the people!

Day 3 - Week 92 - Isaiah 9:6 "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be on His shoulders. And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor,The mighty God, The eternal Father, The Prince of Peace."

"Wonderful Counselor, the mighty God, the eternal Father, the Prince of Peace."

Which of these names speaks to you the loudest regarding our Savior and Lord?  Has He been a "Wonderful Counselor" to you?  Do you think of Jesus as "the mighty God"?  Do you see Him as "the eternal Father"?  Is He your "Prince of Peace"?

It occurred to me when reading this verse tonight how the descriptions given are another testimony to the Holy Trinity.  Most often we think of the Holy Spirit as the Counselor that Jesus promised to us.  We tend to think of God the Father as the mighty power, and Jesus as our Prince of Peace.  But Isaiah, in his inspired wisdom, proclaims all of these attributes on the child to be born.  Jesus came as the Son of God, but in the mystery of the trinity, He proclaimed all the aspects of God.  At His baptism, all three personalities of God were evidenced.  Jesus brought God to us...ALL of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Without the birth of the child in the manger, God in His entirety could never have been truly known by humanity.  Jesus brought God to the world, to be known by all nations.

When those who do not accept Jesus' divinity proclaim Him as a good man, an inspired teacher, a great prophet, they are missing what Isaiah saw many centuries before...this child, this son given to the world, would bring God to us...just as Isaiah had named Him in a couple of chapters before, "And a virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call His name Immanuel."

Wonderful Counselor, the mighty God, the eternal Father, the Prince of Peace....Immanuel...God with us.

God --- all of God, Father, Son and Spirit --- with us.  Praises!

Just as I finished, the loudest clap of thunder exploded in our back yard and I was reminded of the power of God revealed through nature.  My mind went to those in Oklahoma who have suffered through this week in the aftermath of tornadoes in Shawnee and Moore, as well as those in Granbury, Texas, who are still recovering from their tornado of a couple weeks ago.  Why, we ask?  Why did God allow nature, over which He obviously has control, destroy homes and take lives?  Jesus calmed the storm when His disciples were frightened, why didn't He do the same for those facing such fear last week?  "And," we say, "especially those sweet little children!"

Do I have that answer?  Nope.  All I know is that some storms are calmed, and some are not.  God is the decider.   And each of us have to decide if He is trustworthy to place our lives into His sovereign hands.  If so, we enter into a covenant of trust with Him, knowing that He truly is working all things together for good in our lives.  (Romans 8:28)  Even when we don't get immediate answers, even when life doesn't make sense to us, we can trust.  And we can know that one day, we will see clearly. (1 Corinthians 13:12)

Day 2 - Week 92 - Isaiah 9:6 "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be on His shoulders. And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor,The mighty God, The eternal Father, The Prince of Peace."

Seven hundred years before Christ's birth, Isaiah wrote these words of promise given by God.  The whole ninth chapter of Isaiah is full of prophecy regarding the Savior to come.  God gave Isaiah four names that would describe our Messiah.

The first title given is "Wonderful Counselor."

Wow - what an appropriate title for the One who comes to save mankind.  What do we need more through most of our life than a wonderful counselor.  What have I and the rest of my family needed especially over these last months than a wonderful counselor.  When troubles come, we need good, godly counsel.  But you know what, when good times abound we may be even more in need of that counsel---we may just not be as desperate for it, or even aware of our need.  But as humans, whatever our current situation, we should always be well aware that we certainly are in constant need of a wonderful counselor.

As Robert J. Morgan states, "...we can study the Gospels to see how unfailingly He [Jesus] counseled all who came to Him.  As He prepared to return to heaven, He told His disciples, 'I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you...the Holy Spirit.' (John 14:16, 26)."

Prior to Jesus coming to earth, people had to depend on the judges and then the prophets for their counsel from God.  But Jesus came and shared God's wisdom with His disciples.  "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business.  Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you."  John 15:15

The disciples then were commissioned to share all of this wisdom with everyone - no select group, no secret society - Jesus' words from His Father were sent out to the whole world.

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."  Matthew 28:19-20.
And don't miss Jesus' promise at the end of His instructions.   He is still with us...His counsel is available to us...He is still the Wonderful Counselor for 2013!  Through His Holy Spirit within us, we have access to His counsel; through God's written word, we can hear His instruction.  
How silly of us to rely on our own hearts, other people's advice, or any other form of worldly counsel when we have access to the source of all truth...eternal truth.  Seek Him --- He will counsel you, wonderfully!

Day 1 - Week 92 - It's a glorious May day!

God is allowing me to be back on my patio this beautiful morning - cup of coffee by my side - and I am feeling  His presence all around me.  The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and there is that underlying hint of coolness in the morning breeze that seems to say, "I am here."  While life is certainly not always good, this side of heaven, there are certainly moments of exhilaration.  And they can be very simple moments when we allow God to open our eyes, ears and hearts to the affirmations of His love for us.

His love for us --- it is truly an amazing thing, isn't it?  One that I will never fully comprehend, but something that I think I have come to have a fuller understanding of over these past months.  His love for me is not something I have earned, not something I am able to keep by my goodness, it is His love for me, prompted by Him and undeserved by me.  Now my love for Him is definitely shown by my obedience and a life of gratitude, but His love for me...well, "nothing can separate me from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus my Lord."

I know it is has been a few days since we looked at Psalms 23, but let's recite it to make sure it is secure in our memory:

Psalm 23"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.  He maketh me lie down in green pastures, He leadeth me beside the still waters.  He restoreth my soul.  He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not fear, for Thou art with me, Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.  Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemeies.  Thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over.  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

Don't miss that last word, I like to linger on it.  FOREVER.  Forever.  Forever.  Forever is a word in contrast to the world we live in.  The word for this world is temporary.  But our real life...it is FOREVER.  Look forward to it, and remind yourself not to get too entrenched in the temporary when you have forever waiting for you!

We are starting our LAST section of verses, can you believe it?  This section is called, "The Alpha and Omega: The First and Second Comings of Christ."  We will see the promises of Christ's first appearance which took place nearly 2000 years ago, and those of His second coming, which I believe could be very soon!  Exciting, isn't it?  We may be the generation to see Christ come in His glory to redeem His children, all those who believe in His name!

Here is our first verse of promise:

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a child is born , unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulders: and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor , The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 

This is a promise that has been delivered in the person of Jesus Christ.  Hallelujah!  He fulfills all the descriptions Isaiah pronounced, and we will look at these four titles this week.

Thank you again for journeying with me.  Thank you for your graciousness and your support.  I have felt your prayers and they have been so appreciated.  Love to each of you!

A slight change of pace...

I just realized that it has been 3 weeks since my last post!  How different than when I started...I was reminded by my sweet friend Paula that I was posting five times a week initially.  If you have been traveling this journey with me, you know I have had tragedy to work through in these last months, but while the dark days of that time created delays and gaps, I have come to realize that this most recent lull cannot be attributed to that...I realize that I am dragging my feet at this time because we are at week 93, and that means if I keep at this on a regular basis, in seven short weeks, we're through!  While I'm acting like I'm ready for that, I'm not!  I still know that this...whatever this is..is always waiting for me to return.  "This" has become my companion for over two years, a very faithful companion, always there when I sit down to hear God's Word and share it with "you."  (Whoever "you" are...you have also become my journey mate along this road of Scripture.)  So forgive me, again, for another lull...but this time it is a lull of apprehension as to what happens when "this" is over and "you" are no longer traveling by my side.  Then I am reminded of John 14:27...remember that one?  Peace I leave with you.  My peace I give to you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Your heart must not be troubled or fearful.   So, even though "this" will not be an ongoing project, God will provide another source of ministry to me and for me.  No need to fear!

So, let's get this thing done!  Let's do Weeks 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99 and 100!!  Reviewing our last few sections first...

The Good Shepherd
Psalm 23:1  The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want
Psalm 23:2  He maketh me lie down in green pastures, He leadeth me beside the still waters.  He restoreth my soul.
Psalm 23:3  He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Psalm 23:4  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 23:5  Thou preparest a table for me in the presence of mine enemies, Thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over.
Psalm 23:6  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever!

Faith: Trusting God and Resting in His Word (12)
Ephesians 2:8 "For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift."
Ephesians 2:9 "Not by works, so that no one can boast."
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
Colossians 3:15 "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."
Colossians 3:16 "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns
and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God."
Colossians 3:17 "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God's power for salvation to everyone who believe, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."
Romans 1:17 "For in it God's righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith."
Psalm 56:3 "When I am afraid, I will trust in You."
2 Chronicles 16:9 "The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him."
Hebrews 11:6 "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

Day 3 - Week 91 - Psalm 23:6 "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever."

I love what John Gill has to say about this verse, 

"Surely goodness and mercy..."

Either the free grace, love, favor and mercy of God in Christ, which endures continually, and is always the same from everlasting to everlasting; or the effects of it...which flow from the goodness and mercy of God, and not the merits of men; 

and which are in great mercy and loving kindness bestowed on his people, and which follow them: they do not anxiously seek after them; but seeking the kingdom of God and his righteousness, these are added to them, they trusting in the Lord, and he caring for them:

or spiritual good things, which arise from the mere grace and mercy of God; such as the blessings of the covenant, the sure mercies of David, the discoveries and instances of the love of God, and the provisions of his house, which follow them, being undeserving of them;

and even when they have backslidden from the Lord, and in times of distress, when his grace is sufficient for them;

and of all this the psalmist had a comfortable assurance, depending upon the promise of God, arguing from the blessings he had already bestowed, and from the constant care he takes of his people, having in view his unchangeableness and faithfulness, the firmness of his covenant, and the irreversibleness of the blessings of it:

the words may be rendered "only goodness and mercy", nothing but mere mercy and kindness; for though afflictions do attend the children of God, yet these are in mercy and love; there is no fury in the Lord against them; there is nothing comes in wrath to them, throughout the whole course of their lives.

Do John Gill's words give you a greater sense of the goodness and mercy that follows God's children?  

No, life is not all bluebirds and rainbows, but His grace is sufficient for all of our times of distress.  His goodness and mercy truly do follow us all the days of our lives. 

I am thankful for all of God's provisions...but right now, I am very thankful for His goodness and His mercy.  

Day 2 - Week 91 - Psalm 23:6, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

We're on the last verse of this most treasured chapter of Psalms.  Let's recite the chapter so far,

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.  He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside the still waters.  He restoreth my soul.  He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me, Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.  Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies, Thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over.

And now,

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

It's easy to see why this chapter is one of everyone's favorites.  It is packed with comfort and assurance of who our God is...our loving Shepherd....guiding us along our entire pathway of life.  And then ending up with this sentence of ultimate assurance, with God as our Shepherd...

1.  Our days on earth are filled with goodness and mercy.  We are not promised lives without trouble, but when troubles come ---our days in the valley of the shadow of death--- we are promised that God always provides sufficient goodness and mercy to see us through those hard days.  Those are the days when His rod and staff are hemming us in and keeping us close and safe, staving off the enemy who may be trying to steal us away.  Our Shepherd is always with us.  His goodness and His mercies are always surrounding us and offered to us.

2.  We will dwell in His house forever.  That's the best part, isn't it?  No matter what our earthly path entails, we can look forward to forever in His house!  And what a glorious home that will be..."no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has known what God has prepared for those who love Him."  I think we aren't told any more about heaven because it is beyond what our words can describe.  We just cannot fathom what is in store for us when we live with our Father forever.  If the Bible did describe it to us, I don't think it would make sense to our human minds.  We will be in a place where there is no time, where our bodies will be in a new and glorified state allowing us unlimited abilities, things that we just can't get our earthly minds to perceive.  But what we are told let's us know that this is the place that God has prepared for us and this is the place that our souls long for and for which we were created.  This is the place that God desires all of us to reside for eternity.

Do you want to live there?
God has made a way....His name is Jesus!  He is the Way!  Accept Him - God is already preparing a place for you!

Day 1 - Week 91 - The last stretch is always the longest, isn't it?

Here we are...the last 10 weeks of our 100 week journey!  (Even though I fully realize that these have not been consecutive weeks these past months...but nevertheless, 100 weeks of travel!)

Remember the Appalachian Trail?  We've compared our Biblical journey to the trek made along the eastern United States by determined hikers.  Well, the southern trail head of the Appalachian Trail is in southern Georgia...and where would we find ourselves today?  We would be approximately 80 miles into the last state of the journey...Maine.  Have you ever been there?  What a beautiful place!  Picturesque coast lands, lighthouses, and inland lakes and mountains.

But along the Appalachian Trail in southern Maine, hikers must pass through the Mahoosuc Notch. According to Wikipedia, 

"The notch is a deep gap in the Mahoosuc Range of western Maine, traversed by the Appalachian Trail.  The boulders on this mile-long section of trail present obstacles that must be climbed over and sometimes under, creating a unique hiking experience.  There are occasional ten-foot drops, and places where packs must be removed to squeeze beneath a boulder.  Many thru-hikers call this stretch one of the slowest on the 2,179-mile trail.  This so-called "killer mile" or the "Toughest Mile" is a very tough section that can cause even the most experienced hikers to slow down."  

It is really amazing that I decided tonight to pick back up on the Appalachian Trail analogy, and then that I was pulled into reading about the Mahoosuc Notch (of which I had never heard before!).  I really couldn't believe it when I read the description of this section of the trail.  It describes almost perfectly the very same section of trail that I have been covering in my spiritual trek over the past few miles.  In my on-going "hike" of faith, this most recent section has proved to be particularly tough.  There have been obstacles that have either had to be climbed over or crawled under, creating a most "unique hiking experience!"  This hike has been unlike any other for me.  There have been "occasional ten-foot drops", days that the bottom just seemed to fall out from under me...days full of anxiety, worries, mind-wrestling.  Some days, I just had to take the pack off my back and squeeze through!  And, as you have obviously noticed, this section has forced me to slow down...even though I felt that I was a fairly experienced "faith hiker."  

What encourages me about reading this description is that the hikers continue!  They get through the Notch, and once through I have no doubt that they have a fairly significant feeling of accomplishment.  Just as we, as God's children, as the Shepherd's lambs, do when we come through the trials of faith, hanging on, squeezing through the notch, and "doing it!"  Doesn't the expression on this hiker's face convey that spirit of achievement?

I have no doubt that God allowed me to see this description tonight as encouragement to keep up the hike...to move forward...not to let this "Toughest Mile" keep me from seeing the beauty ahead.  

So, the backpack is back on --- the hike continues.  Thanks for taking this tough mile slow with me, but now let's pick up the pace and move forward and complete the journey set before us!  

We've got some beautiful places yet to see!

Day 3 - Week 90 - Psalm 23:5 "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies; thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over."

From Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible - 

"Thou preparest a table before me;
 thou hast provided for me all things pertaining both to life and godliness, all things requisite both for body and soul, for time and eternity:’’ such a bountiful benefactor is God to all his people; and it becomes them abundantly to utter his great goodness, as David here, who acknowledges, 
(1.) That he had food convenient, a table spread, a cup filled, meat for his hunger, drink for his thirst. (2.) That he had it carefully and readily provided for him. His table was not spread with any thing that came next to hand, but prepared, and prepared before him. 
(3.) That he was not stinted, was not straitened, but had abundance: "My cup runs over, enough for myself and my friends too.’’ 
(4.) That he had not only for necessity, but for ornament and delight: Thou anointest my head with oil. Samuel anointed him king, which was a certain pledge of further favor; but this is rather an instance of the plenty with which God had blessed him, or an allusion to the extraordinary entertainment of special friends, whose heads they anointed with oil, Luke 7:46.....not only thus nobly, but thus tenderly, are the children of God looked after. Plentiful provision is made for their bodies, for their souls, for the life that now is and for that which is to come. If Providence do not bestow upon us thus plentifully for our natural life, it is our own fault if it be not made up to us in spiritual blessings."


I love reading Matthew Henry's writings of long ago.  Even though he wrote in the early 1700s, his words often express my thoughts, but in much more eloquent verbiage.  

In the above, do you pick up on the abundance of God's provision for us...not just for this earthly life, but for all eternity.  And, as he says, if our "natural life" does not contain an abundance of earthly goods, we are still plentifully provided for due to the spiritual blessings that we have due to His beautiful, saving grace.

I also love the thought that he expresses in that God does not just provide for us with any old thing that happens to be handy to throw at us, no PBJ sandwiches for our banquet, He prepares our provision...he lays it out before us a carefully prepared table of goods.  And he does this in front of our enemies, so that they can see just how profusely our Father loves His children.  

Sometimes I fail to see just how abundantly my Father God takes care of me, but at other times that beautiful table is made so clear to me.  That beautiful table that includes so many earthly blessings that I have enjoyed, but more importantly displays those platters of overflowing grace, mercy and life everlasting.  What a table it is..come join me there...all are invited!

(As I write this, I'm listening to Travis Cottrell sing, "In Christ Alone"...what a chorus to dine by!)

Day 2 - Psalm 23:5 "Thou preparest a table for me in the presence of my enemies; thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over."

In the Psalms there are many references to "enemies."  David was usually writing about real, true-to-life, enemies...people who were pursuing him, threatening his life, or challenging his leadership.  

But when I read the Psalms and apply them to my life, I view their references to "my enemies" as the forces that are attempting to separate me from relationship with God...Satan and his demons, his schemes, his deception.  

When we have gone through a trial or tribulation and know that Satan has been at play in our lives, and are now through the valley, high on the tableland, seeing the banquet table set before us, we can certainly take delight in knowing that Satan is getting to watch us as we are comforted and blessed by our Father.  

I don't know about you, but it really makes me smile knowing that Satan gets to watch us as we dine in abundance at our Father's table, that he watches as we are anointed knowing that we are certainly out of his reach, sealed for eternity.  (Ephesians 4:30)

Satan loses...we win....God saves.  Blessings overflow.

Day 1 - Week 90 - Out of the valley!

Psalm 23:5  "Thou preparest a table for me in the presence of my enemies; thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over." (KJV)

"As the geography of Psalm 23 progresses, we have now reached the high plateaus and tablelands where the shepherd's muscles are put to the test.  There are rocks to disgorge, briars to clear, pastures to cultivate for the flocks, water to be channeled, and mountain lions to be driven away.  Our Shepherd provides for us even in remote places, even in the presence of predatory foes.

"Sometimes we encounter human enemies scheming coworkers, unpleasant neighbors, or hostile family members.  Worse enemies lurk within us---selfish thoughts, filthy minds, jealous attitudes, or bitter spirits.  Most dangerous of all are satanic spiritual forces prowling around like roaring lions looking for sheep to devour.

"Our Shepherd delivers us from all foes.  Jesus said, 'My sheep hear My voice, I know them and they follow Me.  I give them eternal life, and they will never perish---ever!  No one will snatch them out of My hand. (John 10:27-28)"  ~ Robert J. Morgan, 100 Bible Verses Everyone Should Know by Heart, [Holman Christian Standard Version of the Bible]

This is good for me to ponder on tonight, knowing that no matter the enemy, my Shepherd is fighting for me and preparing a table for me in their presence.  While the enemy may think they have us, my Shepherd is saying, "not so fast --- this one is Mine."  The table is being spread for the victory feast...the victory that comes after the struggle.  

After the struggle, the feast is the sweetest, the anointing the most meaningful, and the blessing most appreciated....then, in recognition of our Shepherd's provision, we can most sincerely say, "My cup runneth over."

OK - I can't honestly say what day, or what week we're in, but I know where I am!

Excuse me, again, for taking a "time out" from blogging.  It is hard to write about what I have been going through.  I think when I last wrote on Psalm 23:4, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil", I was stopped.  For I knew that's exactly where I was.  I have been in the dark valley of fear and doubt, the valley where Satan loves to try to convince us that we are alone.  But through the use of Scripture, prayer and battling in my mind as to what I know to be true, even when my feelings told me otherwise, I am coming through this valley, and I am coming through knowing that my God has walked beside me every step, every moment.  I am walking up out of the valley, feeling God's right hand grasping mine, pulling me up to the next step.  I'm becoming excited about what God is getting ready to show to me, asking Him to not let me stay where I have been, or even where I was before, to pull me up to a new place, a new vista, to see things that He is now ready to share with me that I was not ready for before.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me, Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.

When you are gripped by fear, remember that you are not alone.  Remember the true words of our Father...go back and see His words of love throughout the Bible.  Read how many times He was ready to forgive...Abraham, Jacob, David, and so many subsequent kings of Israel & Judah, kings who did evil in His sight, but turned and repented and were forgiven, because of His mercy and love.  Read of Jesus' compassion for all people and know that, through the blood of Jesus, you are His beloved.

We are living in exciting, but yet troubling times.  Our world is facing unusual threats from multiple fronts---conflict, the economy, weather phenomena, and now asteroids!  It is time to get serious about our faith!  If you have thought before, "some day I will dig in and give all my life to Christ", I would urge you to make today that day.  Our world needs committed Christians, looking to God for every decision; allowing Him to lead us and to keep us from evil.  We need to ask for stronger faiths, for more resilience to temptation, for wholehearted devotion to His purpose, and for the ability to see where He is asking us to serve.  I am asking for those things.  Pray with me - turn with me - repent with me - and serve Him with me.  

Day 2 - Week 89 - Psalm 23:4 "Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."

"With this verse we've reached the halfway point in Psalm 23, a comforting thought.  It means the valley doesn't last forever.  In the next verses we'll discover highland tables, overflowing cups, unfailing goodness and mercy, and an eternal home."  ~ Robert J. Morgan, 100 Bible Verses Everyone Should Know by Heart

When we are in the middle of the valley of the shadow of death, it is sometimes hard to see that there is anything but a continuous journey of darkness laid out ahead of us.  But the Psalmist reminds us through the rest of the chapter that beyond the dark valley there are places of blessing still to be reached.

Robert J. Morgan also writes, "God leads us in the right paths, even when our circumstances appear dark and difficult.  Sometimes our route threads through dark valleys as we face stress and strain, grief and sadness.  During such times we 'fear no danger, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff---they comfort me.'"

The Shepherd is always leading His sheep---in the green pastures, by the still waters, and in the dark valleys.   The sheep follow their Shepherd, they hear His voice, and they follow.  And when they are afraid of the dark, He comforts them with a prod of His rod, a nudge of His staff, reminding them that they are cared for, and that they are never alone.

 

Day 1 - Week 89 - Psalm 23:4 "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."

Are there any more beautiful words to hear when you are in a place of darkness, a place of dread, a place of despair?

No matter how strong our faith, this life still brings with it places that are literally in the valley of the shadow of death.  And they are scary places.  But it is in these places that God wants us to remember that we do not have to be afraid...even when the place is frightening in and of itself.  When we remember that He is with us, that He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us, then our fears can start to subside, our hearts begin to beat a little slower, and we can begin to breathe normally.  We feel the comfort of His rod and His staff, keeping us on His path of safety.  There is such comfort in knowing that we are being guided along the way, especially when that way is swallowed up in darkness.

Sometimes, I have found, you just have to give up making sense out of the darkness, and just trust Him to walk you through it.  I have tried to worry my way out of it, but that is when I feel it's sense of terror and foreboding, and that is when the darkness starts to feel impenetrable.  But when I call upon the Name of the Lord, He hears me, and He comes to me without fail, to guide me through the darkness into His light that is always ahead. 

I want this to be a note of encouragement, even though it could sound discouraging.  In this life, I believe that we will all travel through our own valley of the shadow of death.  No one looks forward to that journey.  But as dark as it is, there is also a blessing when you travel through it.  The blessing of knowing that there is no where where God is not also there...that He is faithful, that He is always by our side. 

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.  He maketh me lie down in green pastures, He leadeth me beside the still waters.  He restoreth my soul; He leadeth me along the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Day 3 - Week 88 - Psalm 23:3 "He restoreth my soul; He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake."

Sometimes you read something that is just stated so perfectly, you know you just have to share it...here is such a reading from Charles Spurgeon's,  The Treasury of David.  I hope it speaks to you as well:
(Emphasis added)

He restoreth my soul. When the soul grows sorrowful he revives it; when it is sinful he sanctifies it; when it is weak he strengthens it. "He" does it. His ministers could not do it if he did not. His Word would not avail by itself. "He restoreth my soul." Are any of us low in grace? Do we feel that our spirituality is at its lowest ebb? He who turns the ebb into the flood can soon restore our soul. Pray to him, then, for the blessing -- "Restore thou me, thou Shepherd of my soul!"

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. The Christian delights to be obedient, but it is the obedience of love, to which he is constrained by the example of his Master. "He leadeth me." The Christian is not obedient to some commandments and neglectful of others; he does not pick and choose, but yields to all. Observe, that the plural is used -- "the paths of righteousness." Whatever God may give us to do we would do it, led by his love. Some Christians overlook the blessing of sanctification, and yet to a thoroughly renewed heart this is one of the sweetest gifts of the covenant. If we could be saved from wrath, and yet remain unregenerate, impenitent sinners, we should not be saved as we desire, for we mainly and chiefly pant to be saved from sin and led in the way of holiness. All this is done out of pure free grace; "for his name's sake." It is to the honour of our great Shepherd that we should be a holy people, walking in the narrow way of righteousness. If we be so led and guided we must not fail to adore our heavenly Shepherd's care.

Day 2 - Week 88 - Psalm 23:3 "He restoreth my soul; he leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake."

Our Shepherd...what do we know of Him so far? 

• He fulfills all our needs
• He brings us to places of comfort
• He restores our souls

And now we are told that He leads us in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.  Up to this statement, our Shepherd's actions on our behalf have been easy to understand.  But what does this statement mean to you?

When I ponder on these words, it makes me so thankful for my Good Shepherd and His good leading.  My Shepherd will lead me in paths that are pleasing to Him...paths of good works, paths of showing love and compassion to others, paths of selflessness, paths of worship and praise to Him, paths of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  These are the paths where He leads me.  If I find myself on any path of opposite characteristics, I can be assured that I did not get there by His guidance, but by way of my leaving His leading.

And when I walk along paths of righteousness, He will receive all the glory, for I have no credit for being there...it has always been because of Him.  HE is the reason for any good in my life, for He has led me there. 

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

 

Day 1 - Week 88 - Psalm 23:3

Here we are - another week - Week 88 in fact!

Before going any further, we must review.  I'm afraid I haven't reviewed for a few weeks, so we probably really need it!

Faith: Trusting God and Resting in His Word (12)
Ephesians 2:8 "For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift."
Ephesians 2:9 "Not by works, so that no one can boast."
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
Colossians 3:15 "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."
Colossians 3:16 "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns
and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God."
Colossians 3:17 "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God's power for salvation to everyone who believe, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."
Romans 1:17 "For in it God's righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith."
Psalm 56:3 "When I am afraid, I will trust in You."
2 Chronicles 16:9 "The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him."
Hebrews 11:6 "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

The Great Commission (4)
Matthew 28:18 "Then Jesus came near and said to them, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth."
Matthew 28:19 "Go, therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
Matthew 28:20 "Teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Psalm 23
Psalm 23:1  "The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want."
Psalm 23:2  "He maketh me lie down in green pastures, He leadeth me beside the still waters."

Can you say the next verse?  It maybe my favorite verse of the chapter.

"He restoreth my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His Name's sake."

I don't know about you, but I need to know that my Shepherd can restore my soul, for there have been times when I have need of soul restoration.  The Hebrew word used in our verse is "shuwb" and it means "to bring back, refresh, restore."  My Shepherd knows me, and knows my soul, and truly knows what my soul needs.  And when it needs restoring, He is the One, and the only One, that is able to do just that.

He brings me back, He refreshes my inner being and He restores my soul to the sense of peace that only His presence brings.  Apart from my Shepherd, I am lost and troubled.  But in His care, I am truly restored and absolutely at peace.

He restoreth my soul.

Day 3 - Week 87 - Psalms 23:2 "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures, He leadeth me beside the still waters."

From The Presbyterian Psalter:

My faithful Shepherd is the Lord, supplying all my needs; In pastures green He makes me rest, by quiet waters leads.

And quoting from William Evans:

It is generally recognized as being a very difficult thing to get God's people to thus lie down.  They will run, walk, fight, sing, teach, preach, work, in a word do almost anything and everything except seek seasons of quiet and periods of retirement for secret communion with God and quiet soul nurture...We do not like pauses...from the rush into the hush (to which) Jesus calls us.
 

It's true, isn't it?  I'm experiencing a time when God is forcing me to stop...to just stop...and seek Him.  There is nothing else that I can do right now except...stop.  And you know what, when we do stop and allow ourselves to be stilled, God always provides the place to do just that.   A place of provision and a place of peacefulness. 

I know my Shepherd will soon ask me to get up and get moving, but today I am trying to pay attention to His hushing and to hear His quiet voice of assurance.

 

Day 2 - Week 87 - Psalms 23:2 "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters."

These are beautiful places --- green pastures, beside the still waters.  But what about when our lives are not in such pretty sites, when the grass isn't so green and the waters seem anything but still.  What then?

Then we hold on to these verses...we hold on to the fact that the Lord IS our Shepherd.  That He will bring us again to green pastures and still waters.  That He IS faithful and that He IS good.  Sheep sometimes have to go through rocky places to get to the place of rest...and as they go through those mountain passes, through the crags and tors, their Shepherd is guiding them, always protecting them and ever loving them. 

When we're not in green pastures, we look forward to them, knowing they will come again...and knowing that we have the greenest pastures, the stillest waters waiting for us in a place that He is preparing for us now, a place that is promised to be more than our little sheep-brains can begin to imagine!

However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him"-- 1 Corinthians 2:9
 

Day 1 - Week 87 - Psalm 23:2 "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters."

"Sheep eat standing up.  We once had a small flock, and the only time I saw them eat lying down was when sick.  Sheep eat on all fours, then find a shady spot to lie down and chew their cud.  When the psalmist said, 'He lets me lie down in green pastures,' he meant, 'I'm well satisfied.  I've had plenty to eat.  My needs have been met.  Now I'm going to settle down in contentment.'

"What about the still waters?  Sheep are frightened by rushing streams, for they wear heavy wooden coats that can become waterlogged and result in drowning.  Our sheep wouldn't come near the water trough while I was filling it with the hose.  The sound and sight of the splashing bothered them.  But when the water was stilled, they'd come and drink all they wanted.

"If we're under the Shepherd's ownership and care, He'll see to it that every need in our lives is met in one way or another---our external needs, our internal needs, and our eternal needs."

                                   Robert J. Morgan, One Hundred Bible Verses Everyone Should Know by Heart

Right on the heels of "I shall not want", stating that with God as our Shepherd we find ourselves without any unmet needs or desires, we are told that He makes us lie down in green pastures and leads us to still waters.  We are made to lie down, because our stomachs are full...we are content, and well satisfied, and the only natural thing for a sheep to do at that point is to lie down in the clover and rest.  Rest --- that is what the leadership of God brings to us --- He brings us to rest, because if we are truly in Him and trusting in His provision, we have no other option.  He is our rest.  Just as Jesus invites us in Matthew 11:28, "Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

Along with great rest, our faithful Shepherd brings us to the still waters...nothing that will upset us, but peaceful, still waters that give us life.  He is the living water, and His Spirit brings His eternal spring into our souls to keep us hydrated eternally. 

John 7:37-39   "Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, 'If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink.  Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.'  By this He meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were later to receive."

Green Pastures - Still Waters

. 

Contentment and Rest - His Spirit within Us

I'm a silly sheep, but I am so thankful for my Good, Good, Shepherd who provides everything for my complete well being. 

Day 3 - Week 86 - Psalm 23:1 "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want."

I just finished reading the nativity account in Luke and was reminded once again that the first to hear of the Savior's birth were shepherds, watching their flocks by night.

It gave me comfort to remember that my Shepherd also watches His flock by night.  He stands guard in the darkness, in our darkness, and protects each of His sheep.  He cares for us so wonderfully and so gently.

I'm also reminded by this week's verse that with God as my Good Shepherd, I shall have no wants.  I am to remember that He provides for me in all His wisdom and with the exactly right provision that I need. 

Whenever I am fearful of tomorrow, I just need to remember Who it is that is caring for me.  He is my Shepherd, He is my Savior, and He has promised to care for me.

Day 2 - Week 86 - Psalms 23:1 "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want."

"Unlike many animals, sheep can't make it on their own.  They can't fight with their hoofs or teeth.  They can't track down food.  They can't run very easily, or dig holes, or climb trees to escape predators.  They can't kick or bit.  They need a shepherd to care for them, just as we do."
     Robert J. Morgan, 100 Bible Verses Everyone Should Know by Heart

I'm certainly a sheep!  I cannot make it on my own...I need a shepherd.  And I have one.  The Lord is my Shepherd.  And because He is, I have no wants.  He is my all.  He completes whatever I lack.  He fills every gap in me, and I can rest because He has promised to be with me. 

Lord, when I whine or complain, remind me that You are giving me everything I need...because of You, I lack nothing.  Thank You Lord Jesus for shepherding me and for coming to seek and rescue me when I have been the one that lost its way.

Day 1 - Week 86 - Back...again....

So we begin Week 86 in our 100 week journey. Never would I have dreamed when starting out 86 weeks ago where this journey would take me. Seventeen weeks ago, this journey took a sharp turn and the weeks that have followed have been some of the darkest of my life.  Death brings mortality to you as a stark reality, and I believe God calls us, through our tears, to look at our own lives deeply.

I have found myself much more introspective than usual and with that introspection I have spent much time evaluating my faith, my commitment and my hypocrisy.  It is hard to look at yourself very squarely and see yourself for who you really are.  What I have seen is that while in my life I have greatly proclaimed my faith and my love of Jesus, throughout my life my level of obedience has often been very poor and at times been defiantly rebellious.  I have had to ask, "Why?" And I have not had many good answers to that question, other than my incredible weakness and willfulness.  I have repeated to myself in the middle of the night, "I am still a sinner in need of a Savior.  I have a Savior.  His name is Jesus."  And that is where I stand, and that is where I will stand the rest of my life.  But I pray that in the days to follow in my life that my greater realization of the sinner that I really am, will result in a greater level of gratitude for God's saving grace, and will be manifested in a greater obedience to His directives in my life.

I have been an abuser of grace. I thank God that He forgives, but please Lord, let me always accept your Lordship over my life in the most serious of manner.  Please do not let me think I can decide which days fall under your authority and which days I get to control.  Please let me give myself totally to You, so that in the days to come I will not look back with regret, but with joy over how You have redeemed my life to serve You.

One of the things that I have had to confront is my need for affirmation.  I feel that God is now asking me to allow Him to work through me without any recognition to myself.  While I am committed to completing this blog, I want to make it very, very clear that I do not want any praise for it, or any honor for doing it.  God's Word is wonderful --- He is the One who deserves all praise.  From here on out, my comments on His inspired words will be very minimal, and yet, hopefully, meaningful.

Coincidentally, today is my 57th birthday.  I am so thankful that I have lived most of these 57 years knowing Jesus as my Savior, but I am sad that I have wasted so many of these years not living a life completely "sold out" to His glory. I hate to think of the missed opportunities to bring Him honor or to share Him with someone else. 

Let's go back and review where we left off (after all, it has been a while!), and bring these verses back into our hearts to guide us....

Faith: Trusting God and Resting in His Word (12)
Ephesians 2:8 "For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift."
Ephesians 2:9 "Not by works, so that no one can boast."
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."
Colossians 3:15 "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."
Colossians 3:16 "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God."
Colossians 3:17 "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God's power for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."
Romans 1:17 "For in it God's righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith."
Psalm 56:3 "When I am afraid, I will trust in You."
2 Chronicles 16:9 "The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him."
Hebrews 11:6 "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

The Great Commission (4)
Matthew 28:18 "Then Jesus came near and said to them, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth."
Matthew 28:19 "Go, therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
Matthew 28:20 "Teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
Acts 1:8 "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesseses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Our next section is going to be one that many probably already have memorized, but what great verses of comfort...the 23rd Psalm...and this is one that I just have to recite in the King James Version.

Psalm 23:1  "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want."

With God leading us, what more do we want, let alone need.  Lord, help me to remember that You are my everything...there is nothing else that I could ever need beside You.  I never want to be where You are not, and as long as You are there, then I am satisfied.

Thank You Lord for your miraculous, redeeming love.