Banquet With The King

Friday, June 25, 2021

Protect My Life as You Promised

Meditate. What is love?

ר‎ [Resh] Look upon my suffering and rescue me, for I have not forgotten your instructions. Argue my case; take my side! Protect my life as you promised. The wicked are far from rescue, for they do not bother with your decrees. LORD, how great is your mercy; let me be revived by following your regulations. Many persecute and trouble me, yet I have not swerved from your laws. Seeing these traitors makes me sick at heart, because they care nothing for your word. See how I love your commandments, LORD. Give back my life because of your unfailing love. The very essence of your words is truth; all your just regulations will stand forever. Psalm 119:153-160

Protect my life as you promised. I cling to the promises that the Lord has made. Promises are important. As I’ve mentioned recently, my favorite promise is that the Lord will never leave me or forsake me. Somehow that is really significant to me—not that I’ve ever felt abandoned or rejected. My folks really wanted a son, and the doctor told them that I was going to be a boy…but I wasn’t, so I always thought I was a disappointment to them. They didn’t reject me, and they had two sons after I was born, but still I just felt not totally loved. I wasn’t their favorite. But I learned early in life by the song, Jesus love me. And I always felt that my Grandmothers loved me. I was named after one and the other one put up with me visiting after club meetings once a week for several years. I was a noisy kid—but I was always welcome. That is love.

Yesterday I was working in my yard for a couple of hours in the morning…before it got really hot. As I worked I contemplated what love really is. We know that God is love from 1 John 4:8. The classic description of love in the Bible tells us that love is…

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! ... Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, 13

But on my anniversary I was deep in thought about love…how it starts and continues…and sometimes stops. I think there is a romantic element—sometimes even lustful that sparks that love…or is sparked by love, yet I recall asking my sister just before she was getting married, “How do you know if you really love someone?” She said that it was when you knew you cared more about that other person than yourself. Hmmm. We are supposed to love our neighbor…those around us, not necessarily next door…as ourselves. Well—what about people who don’t love themselves, those with low self-esteem? What about people who have arranged marriages…or marry out of some way of escape. I was thinking of my paternal grandparents. My grandmother came over to the US alone on a boat from Odessa, Russia at the age of fourteen. Her money was stolen as she slept and she became an endured servant to the family who helped her when she arrived in New York and traveled across the country to Washington State where her sister already lived. As the story goes, a young man saw her working so hard for those people and he offered to marry her. Her knight in shining armor! Then she worked for him. My grandparents were married for over 50 years and had six children. Grandma was always busy…working…in her kitchen, house, garden…cleaning, cooking, baking, canning, sewing, crocheting, planting or weeding. It was Grandma who taught me what weeds are…the curse of the ground. So as I weeded my yard, I thought of her…and love. Her life was protected by God…mine is, too.

Prayer ~ LORD, don't hold back your tender mercies from me. Let your unfailing love and faithfulness always protect me. Psalm 40:11

Verse of Salvation ~ This is what the LORD says: "At just the right time, I will respond to you. On the day of salvation I will help you. I will protect you and give you to the people as my covenant with them. Through you I will reestablish the land of Israel and assign it to its own people again. Isaiah 49:8

Friday’s Feasting at the King’s Table

Near the headwater of the Jordan River.
Israel

We must have water.

We can’t live on bread alone. We must have water. Be sure to drink enough water to stay hydrated during this HOT time of the summer. Keep your water pure and uncontaminated. We need to drink at least eight glasses of water…more when it is hot and we’ve been outdoors. Don’t get dehydrated. If you are outside and feel hot, drink more water, seek shade or go indoors. Place a cool washcloth on your forehead, or take a cool shower to cool your body down if you have gotten overheated. Take care of your body…it is the Temple of the Holy Spirit. Take care of your heart and your head…as well as your body.

Spiritually, seek the Living Water that Jesus offers. Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, 'Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.' John 7:38

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188.

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Thursday, June 24, 2021

Do You Rise Early?

Meditate. Rise early and hear God's voice in His word.

ק‎ [Qoph] I pray with all my heart; answer me, LORD! I will obey your decrees. I cry out to you; rescue me, that I may obey your laws. I rise early, before the sun is up; I cry out for help and put my hope in your words. I stay awake through the night, thinking about your promise. In your faithful love, O LORD, hear my cry; let me be revived by following your regulations. Lawless people are coming to attack me; they live far from your instructions. Psalm 119:145-152

Jesus rose early to pray…to connect with His Father. He put His hope and trust in the guidance that God gave Him. Remember all the times He said that He didn’t speak for himself…but for His Father.

I don't speak on my own authority. The Father who sent me has commanded me what to say and how to say it. And I know his commands lead to eternal life; so I say whatever the Father tells me to say. John 12:49-50

Don't you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words I speak are not my own, but my Father who lives in me does his work through me. John 14:10

What great examples Jesus and Ezra were for us. What time do you get up to spend with the Father before you start your day? I get up usually when I wake up—but rarely before the sun is up. Starting my day blogging gets me into God’s word…I live for His instruction, too, like Ezra. There is so much to study in God’s word. My husband and I follow a couple of Bible teachers on YouTube that talk about Bible prophesy and just the Bible in general. Our Small Group is doing a chronological study of Ezra and Nehemiah that just makes it come alive in our discussions. Why is it that some retired people are bored? I have so much to do that there just isn’t time to do everything I want to do! I’m also in the midst of writing and illustrating a children’s Bible storybook. Such fun. I guess I need to rise early and cry out for help from the Lord on that so I can get it finished this summer!

Ballon Rally at Prosser, Washington
Rise up early.

Do you rise early, before the sun is up, and spend time in prayer with the Lord? It would be great for your relationship with Him. I know I need to do more of that…get up early and pray. I do put my hope in His word.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus…I trust You and the Father God who sent You. For when I see You, I am seeing the one who sent You. You came as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in You will no longer remain in the dark. From John 12:44-46. Thank You for being a light in the darkness of this world—and for guiding us to the Father. I trust and love You with all of my heart, soul and mind. Please continue to guide and direct me with Your instructions…that came from the Father.

Verse of Salvation ~ LORD, give me your unfailing love, the salvation that you promised me. Psalm 119:41

Happy Anniversary to my Hunny! Forty-nine…and counting.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Wednesday, June 23, 2021

Is Your God Stone or a Risen Being?

Meditate. Think about the attributes of God.

Tsadhe - O LORD, you are righteous, and your regulations are fair. Your laws are perfect and completely trustworthy. I am overwhelmed with indignation, for my enemies have disregarded your words. Your promises have been thoroughly tested; that is why I love them so much. I am insignificant and despised, but I don't forget your commandments. Your justice is eternal, and your instructions are perfectly true. As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands. Your laws are always right; help me to understand them so I may live. Psalm 119:137-144

Do you worship a god with a golden dome?

Do you worship a God whose tomb is empty?

This Psalm expresses some great values of God and His word. He is righteous, fair, perfect, trustworthy, eternal, just, true, right and honest (keeping promises). Jesus has been called the Word of God…and thus all of these qualities also apply to Him. Our God…Father, Son and Holy Spirit…is an awesome God. People that worship other gods may think that their god is great…but only our God, Jesus, was actually raised from the dead and is still living. That sets our God apart from others. They are merely images now in stone or metal that are venerated by those who have been taught to believe in that tradition. Taught. That is the key. Everyone needs to be taught about their god…or God. We need to be discipled…or need to disciple others. I think that it is rare that anyone truly learns about God on their own. Sure, once we have been introduced to God, we read and study His word and develop our relationship with Him, but someone initiates that awareness of our Creator, our sustainer, our Savior…our God.

Remember that Jesus told His disciples…and us…to go and make disciples of all the nations (see Matthew 28:19). How do you introduce someone to God? Do you say…I’d like you to meet a friend of mine? Have you noticed the variety of flora (plants) and fauna (animals) in our world (neighborhood)—let me tell you about the Creator? Where will you be going when you die?

There are lots of options that you can use to “introduce” others to our God.

…you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. 1 Peter 3:15-16 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, help me to live a life worthy of You…that whether someone asks me or not they can see that my hope is in You. May my life be a reflection of You.

Verses of Salvation ~ All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see. 1 Peter 1:3-5

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Do You Want to be Taugtht?

Meditate. Focus on God's word.

פ‎ [Pe] Your laws are wonderful. No wonder I obey them! The teaching of your word gives light, so even the simple can understand. I pant with expectation, longing for your commands. Come and show me your mercy, as you do for all who love your name. Guide my steps by your word, so I will not be overcome by evil. Ransom me from the oppression of evil people; then I can obey your commandments. Look upon me with love; teach me your decrees. Rivers of tears gush from my eyes because people disobey your instructions. Psalm 119:129-136

Ezra was so focused on God’s word as he wrote this Psalm. God’s word is precious to me…and I presume that it is important to you or you wouldn’t even be reading this. It is good to have some comradery around the world. Did you know that this blog is read daily by people in several different countries? Last month I noted that there were 459 page views from individuals in eighteen various countries. This month we are nearing those figures and we still have more than a week before the end of the month. It is so encouraging to know that people are searching for the Lord and hopefully finding Him in the scripture passages in this blog.

I agree with Ezra…God’s laws, commands, decrees and instructions are wonderful. As humans we need His guidance in our lives as we live to please Him. What child doesn’t need some direction from their parent? God is our parent…our Heavenly Father. He gives us as much instruction as we want…as we search for Him. Without training we flounder hopelessly—like the rebellious Hebrew children in the Exodus from Egypt…and at other times that drove them away from God and into exile. Consider the verse that encourages parents as they prepare their children for life. The right path…the right way to live.

Kim and Amelia...hiking Badger Mt.
Direct them..take them by the hand
on the right path.
Lead them in the paths...
of righteousness.

Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. Proverbs 22:6

Without that training or direction the child not only is disobedient their parents, but to God as well. Their life may seem wonderful at times, but is hopeless in the end. Think about children or teens that you’ve known whose babysitter was the TV; left to fend for themselves while their parent(s) worked or partied; not encouraged to choose good friends, have hobbies, play sports, or go to church. Disobedient parents generally have disobedient children. Do you want to be taught...and to teach others?

Like Ezra…ask God to look on you with love and instruct you mercifully in His ways.

Prayer ~ Lord God, train me as Your child and look on me with Your love that everything I think, say and do would be pleasing to You. Please pour out Your wisdom on me that I would not only understand Your guidance, but apply it to my life as I seek to serve others for You.

Lord, I continue to pray for a healing touch for those who are in our thoughts and concerns. May You in Your mercy answer our prayers—for we, like the centurion, have faith that You can and will provide restored health (Matthew 8:5-13).

Verses of Salvation ~ Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation. I listen carefully to what God the LORD is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways. Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, so our land will be filled with his glory. Psalm 85:7-9

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Monday, June 21, 2021

Are You Blessed with Discernment?

Meditate. Do you love God's word?

ע‎ [Ayin] Don't leave me to the mercy of my enemies, for I have done what is just and right. Please guarantee a blessing for me. Don't let the arrogant oppress me! My eyes strain to see your rescue, to see the truth of your promise fulfilled. I am your servant; deal with me in unfailing love, and teach me your decrees. Give discernment to me, your servant; then I will understand your laws. LORD, it is time for you to act, for these evil people have violated your instructions. Truly, I love your commands more than gold, even the finest gold. Each of your commandments is right. That is why I hate every false way. Psalm 119:121-128 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Are you blessed with discernment? Do you understand God’s laws, commands, and guidance in such a way that you can judge issues and apply God’s word? It is a discerning person who can wisely see God’s truth when others cannot. It is a true gift of the Spirit.

I do love God’s word…His commands more than gold, even the finest gold. I’m not much of a jewelry wearer…but I do have some favorite rings and earrings that I cherish. One ring that I got in Israel has scripture on it…a favorite one to which I often cling. “I will never leave you or forsake you.” It is found in several places in the Bible, including Deuteronomy 31:8 and Hebrews 13:5. The New Living Translation uses “abandon” instead of “forsake”…but it is still the same assurance. God won’t neglect us.

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you." Deuteronomy 31:8

That gives me such a feeling of hope and encouragement. The Almighty One…our powerful God…the creator…the resurrected Savior…the ultimate Judge…cares about me!

I feel the same way about God…and my husband. After I got my scripture ring, I felt convicted that I needed to tell God that I would “never leave” Him or “forsake” Him…and then I felt the need to express the same thing to my husband. My pledge to him…“I will never leave you or forsake you.” We’ve spent nearly forty-nine years together—that is a great milestone! I’ve lots of friends who have had fifty years together…or soon will have that. Other friends and associates just didn't make it in their marriages. With the divorce rate statistics of 40% in 1972 and only 27% now (according to the CDC vital statistics of the Public Health Service), many of us have done well with our commitment to each other. In my family I feel blessed. It could have turned out very disappointing…but faithful, wise discernment on our parts has kept God in our marriage…and in our family. That is the key.

Prayer ~ Lord God, thank you for blessing us and for Your promise to never leave us or forsake us. You are an awesome God…always worthy of our praise and adoration. I confess to You that life hasn’t always been easy…and I’ve made some poor choices along the way…but You’ve blessed me anyway. As David wrote… “The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving." Psalm 28:7

Verse of Salvation ~ The LORD gives his people strength. He is a safe fortress for his anointed king. Save your people! Bless Israel, your special possession. Lead them like a shepherd, and carry them in your arms forever. Psalm 28:8-9

Save all your followers, Lord…and bless Israel in this time of distress…and always.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Sunday, June 20, 2021

Honor Your Father

Meditate. How will you honor your father…or his memory?

[Samekh] I hate those with divided loyalties, but I love your instructions. You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope. Get out of my life, you evil-minded people, for I intend to obey the commands of my God. LORD, sustain me as you promised, that I may live! Do not let my hope be crushed. Sustain me, and I will be rescued; then I will meditate continually on your decrees. But you have rejected all who stray from your decrees. They are only fooling themselves. You skim off the wicked of the earth like scum; no wonder I love to obey your laws! I tremble in fear of you; I stand in awe of your regulations. Psalm 119:113-120

Divided loyalties is something that God truly does not like especially if it is associated with mixing idol and God worship.

Oregon Pacific Coast
Are you tossed about like these waves?

But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. James 1:6

You must never set up a wooden Asherah pole beside the altar you build for the LORD your God. And never set up sacred pillars for worship, for the LORD your God hates them. Deuteronomy 16:21-22

It’s easy to get caught up in a form of idol worship…like putting a TV program before “God” time. What matters most to you in life…food, sports, YouTube, Netflix, Prime or some other TV program, electronics, travel, your appearance, clothes, shoes, cars, motorcycles, toys, books, comics, or God? How we spend our time generally shows our devotion and what is really important to us. Today, Father’s Day, the important thing should be to honor our fathers. That can begin with honoring our Heavenly Father, too. Solomon reminds us of what is import to God and family in these passages in Proverbs.

There are six things the LORD hates—no, seven things he detests: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family. Proverbs 6:16-19

My son, obey your father’s commands, and don’t neglect your mother’s instruction. Keep their words always in your heart. Tie them around your neck. When you walk, their counsel will lead you. When you sleep, they will protect you. When you wake up, they will advise you. For their command is a lamp and their instruction a light; their corrective discipline is the way to life. Proverbs 6:20-23

God instructed Moses to have the Israelites honor their parents. It is the first commandment after how we are to honor God first in our lives…and it is the only commandment with a promise. Additionally, there were strict…death…results if a person didn’t honor their parents.

Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the LORD your God is giving you. Exodus 20:12

For instance, God says, 'Honor your father and mother,' and 'Anyone who speaks disrespectfully of father or mother must be put to death.' Matthew 15:4

How are you showing respect and honor to your father today?

Prayer ~ Lord, help me to honor my father…and my mother…today.

Verse of Salvation ~ Help us, O God of our salvation! Help us for the glory of your name. Save us and forgive our sins for the honor of your name. Psalm 79:9

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Saturday, June 19, 2021

Is Your Path Well Lighted?

Meditate. ‎Are you trying to walk in the dark...or searching for the light?

נ [Nun] Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. I've promised it once, and I'll promise it again: I will obey your righteous regulations. I have suffered much, O LORD; restore my life again as you promised. LORD, accept my offering of praise, and teach me your regulations. My life constantly hangs in the balance, but I will not stop obeying your instructions. The wicked have set their traps for me, but I will not turn from your commandments. Your laws are my treasure; they are my heart's delight. I am determined to keep your decrees to the very end. Psalm 119:105-112

Clay lamp like those used in Biblical times.
Light my way, Lord!

God’s word instructs us in the path to go…illuminated by Him. Jesus is called The Word in John 1:1. Additionally, Jesus said He was the Light of the World. He is that lamp to guide my feet…as well as my heart, soul and mind, giving me strength to press on. Giving me strength to obey.

Prayer ~ LORD, accept my offering of praise. You are an awesome God—knowing everything. I praise You for Your wisdom and gracious sharing of even just a little glimmer of that wisdom, giving me understanding of Your word…and of You. I treasure You…as well as Your laws. I want to continually and intentionally obey what You have taught me based on Your Commandments and application of Your laws through Your teachings in the New Testament. Your grace is sufficient for me.

Verses of Salvation ~ I praise God for what he has promised; yes, I praise the LORD for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me? I will fulfill my vows to you, O God, and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help. For you have rescued me from death; you have kept my feet from slipping. So now I can walk in your presence, O God, in your life-giving light. Psalm 56:10-13

Rescued from death…into eternal life.

Bible Trivia Answer to the Question ~ Who will see Jesus when He comes again? Who will bow down to Him?

Look! He (Jesus) comes with the clouds of heaven. And everyone will see him--even those who pierced him. And all the nations of the world will mourn for him. Yes! Amen! Revelation 1:7

Let all the world look to me for salvation! For I am God; there is no other. I have sworn by my own name; I have spoken the truth, and I will never go back on my word: Every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will confess allegiance to me." The people will declare, "The LORD is the source of all my righteousness and strength." And all who were angry with him will come to him and be ashamed. Isaiah 45:22-24

Bible Trivia Question for next week ~ What was the attitude of Christ?

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Friday, June 18, 2021

Sweet Words – Sweet Fragrance

Meditate. Are you sweet smelling to those around you?

מ‎ [Mem] Oh, how I love your instructions! I think about them all day long. Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are my constant guide. Yes, I have more insight than my teachers, for I am always thinking of your laws. I am even wiser than my elders, for I have kept your commandments. I have refused to walk on any evil path, so that I may remain obedient to your word. I haven't turned away from your regulations, for you have taught me well. How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey. Your commandments give me understanding; no wonder I hate every false way of life. Psalm 119:97-104

Sweet words. Have you ever tasted sweet words…or bitter words? Compare and contrast these scriptures about sweet and bitter words. Have either of those ever come from your mouth?

Kind words are like honey--sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. Proverbs 16:24

O God, listen to my complaint. Protect my life from my enemies' threats. Hide me from the plots of this evil mob, from this gang of wrongdoers. They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows. They shoot from ambush at the innocent, attacking suddenly and fearlessly. They encourage each other to do evil and plan how to set their traps in secret. "Who will ever notice?" they ask. Psalm 64:1-5

What can you do to make sure that your words are the kind, sweet words that honor God and yourself?

Pray? Think before you speak? Look at some scripture about controling your mouth (example James 1:26). Bridle your tongue.

Prayer ~ Lord God, help me to think before I speak…and to honor You in all that I think, say and do. As Paul prayed for the Colossians, I pray for my family, friends and those reading this blog…

So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better. We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. Colossians 1:9-12

Verse of Salvation ~ But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ's triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this? 2 Corinthians 2:14-16

Are you a sweet-smelling fragrance to those around you?

Friday’s Feasting at the King’s Table

We can’t live on bread alone.

What is your favorite meal of the day…and what do you like to eat? I’ve been trying to do the 16/8 Food Limiting Times (FTL) to restrict my food intake and thus loose weight. One of my brothers has been very successful with this fasting food routine and has lost 70—that’s right seventy—pounds. He looks and feels great. For both of us breakfast is an important meal of the day and we’ve found that just eating it four to ten hours later than usual is still good. Now mind you, I am NOT eating my favorite blueberry pancakes with peanut butter! Eggs are healthy and one of those when I am breaking my fast time is tasty whether it is fried, scrambled or in an omelet. Omelets are great when they include bacon, asparagus, spinach, mushrooms and cheese, even goat cheese. Add a little pesto on top and I’ve got such a wonderful meal that just thinking about it makes my mouth water. So what is on your plate as you begin breaking your fast—whether 8 or 18 hours? What do your scales tell you that you need to do today? Eat hearty or push yourself away from the table? Maybe my arms will get stronger as I push myself away from the table more often!?

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Thursday, June 17, 2021

Are You a Spiritual Person?

Meditate. Don’t be deceived. Know what the scriptures say.

But people who aren't spiritual can't receive these truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can't understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. 1 Corinthians 2:14 NLT

Do you consider yourself a “spiritual” person? Are you filled with the Holy Spirit? That is the spirituality that Paul is referring to here when he writes to the people in the church at Corinth. Spirituality may sound foolish still to people—but there are different types of spirituality out there. Be careful with which spirituality you get involved. If it is not the Holy Spirit that is teaching you, then it may likely be an evil spirit that is trying to fool you…to get your attention away from the true Spirit. As John wrote…Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. 1 John 4:1 NLT.

The Holy Spirit...like a Dove

Those who don’t have the Holy Spirit in them don’t understand God’s Word—His teachings, unless He reveals it to them. Where would we be without that? I’m convinced that God reveals Himself to us…but not everyone sees. They are too caught up in their own world or just don’t consider themselves worthy enough to know God. God doesn’t see it that way. He wants a relationship with everyone. One of the most known verses in the Bible is John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” It doesn’t say that God loved only Americans or only Jews…or only…. It says God so loved THE WORLD. But not everyone in the world responds to God’s love for them. Maybe they just haven’t heard it yet. I missed telling at least four or five people today that God loves them. May God have mercy on them—and send someone tomorrow to introduce them to Jesus if they don’t already know Him. When it comes to the end of the day…I look back and see where I missed opportunities. But God doesn’t want us to “look back.” But Jesus said to him, "No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62. Look ahead and be ready. As Peter wrote…sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence….1 Peter 3:15. Being ready is important. Remember…You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect. Luke 12:40. Be spiritual—seeking the Holy Spirit and be ready.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help all my family, friends, and neighbors see how worthy they are of God’s love. We all are spiritual beings…created in God’s image to have a relationship with Him. He is holy—let us be holy, too.

Verse of Salvation ~ For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Wednesday, June 16, 2021

You Give Me Life

Meditate. Who gives you life? Who will rescue you?

ל‎ [Lamedh] Your eternal word, O LORD, stands firm in heaven. Your faithfulness extends to every generation, as enduring as the earth you created. Your regulations remain true to this day, for everything serves your plans. If your instructions hadn't sustained me with joy, I would have died in my misery. I will never forget your commandments, for by them you give me life. I am yours; rescue me! For I have worked hard at obeying your commandments. Though the wicked hide along the way to kill me, I will quietly keep my mind on your laws. Even perfection has its limits, but your commands have no limit. Psalm 119:89-96

God and His words are so precious to me—for His instructions give me life. I truly feel that God has rescued me…from sin, of course, and from depression and my own bad attitude, some days. I am my own worst enemy. Ezra had an exceptional outlook on keeping God’s commandments. Under God’s grace, this side of the cross, we are not under the law…but personally I think that, like Ezra, I will quietly keep my mind on God’s laws—His commands have no limit. God hears me when I call out to Him. I am confident that He hears my prayers.

Turn your ear to listen to me; rescue me quickly. Be my rock of protection, a fortress where I will be safe. Psalm 31:2

Now may the LORD value my life, even as I have valued yours today. May he rescue me from all my troubles. 1 Samuel 26:24 (Spoken by David to Saul, after sparing his life.)

With Mt. Hermon in the distance, a warning....
Danger. Mines.
Wars. Rumors of wars.

God will rescue you. He has a plan.

God has spared my life. I look forward to a joyous homecoming and an eternal reward of life in Heaven—after spending a thousand years reigning with Christ. God has a plan…and He has promised an eternal life with Jesus our Savior, but look closely at the things that are foretold. Wars and battles. Gratefully, Jesus will be leading the battle and His angels will be fighting. His eternal word stands firm in heaven and we can count on God to fulfill His promises.

I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed: "O Lord, you are a great and awesome God! You always fulfill your covenant and keep your promises of unfailing love to those who love you and obey your commands. Daniel 9:4

Are you finding joy in your relationship with the Lord? Do you see His plan unfolding for the world?

Prayer ~ Lord God…"O Lord, you are a great and awesome God! You always fulfill your covenant and keep your promises of unfailing love to those who love you and obey your commands. From Daniel 9:4. Thank You for revealing Yourself to me and for the precious relationship we have together…forever. Thank You for Your promises.

Verses of Salvation ~ There were many priests under the old system, for death prevented them from remaining in office. But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf. Hebrews 7:23-25

Read that passage again and note that Jesus is able to save those people who come through Him to get to our Heavenly Father. Not works…not your folks or your best friend. Only through Jesus. If you never have asked Him to be your Savior, do it today.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Tuesday, June 15, 2021

I Put My Hope in God’s Word

Meditate. Where is your hope?

כ‎ [Kaph] I am worn out waiting for your rescue, but I have put my hope in your word. My eyes are straining to see your promises come true. When will you comfort me? I am shriveled like a wineskin in the smoke, but I have not forgotten to obey your decrees. How long must I wait? When will you punish those who persecute me? These arrogant people who hate your instructions have dug deep pits to trap me. All your commands are trustworthy. Protect me from those who hunt me down without cause. They almost finished me off, but I refused to abandon your commandments. In your unfailing love, spare my life; then I can continue to obey your laws. Psalm 119:81-88

I put my hope in God’s word. God gives us hope in knowing His gospel—the good news that Jesus is God’s son, that He is God, He died for our sins and amazingly He was resurrected from the dead. Glory be to God for the hope and salvation that Jesus offers us. It is only with the grace of God that we know His word…and that we are saved from the evil that is in the world today. That same evil was in the world when this Psalm and all of the Old and New Testaments were written. Jesus saves us from the corruption, deceit, and just plain basic sin which encompasses the world. We can’t escape it—but Jesus can protect us from it…and take it away. My hope is in Him…and I learn about Him through God’s word. In His grace and mercy God doesn’t expect us to keep all the laws that the Israelites had to keep in the Old Testament times, but it is because of God’s mercy that I won’t abandon His commandments and I will obey them.

Whoever pursues righteousness and unfailing love will find life, righteousness, and honor. Proverbs 21:21

Prayer ~ Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17. May the Lord be with your spirit. And may his grace be with all of you. 2 Timothy 4:22

Verses of Salvation ~ "For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay. And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away." But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved. Hebrews 10:37-39

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Monday, June 14, 2021

Can You See Joy?

Meditate. Can you see joy in distress or delight?

י‎ [Yodh] You made me; you created me. Now give me the sense to follow your commands. May all who fear you find in me a cause for joy, for I have put my hope in your word. I know, O LORD, that your regulations are fair; you disciplined me because I needed it. Now let your unfailing love comfort me, just as you promised me, your servant. Surround me with your tender mercies so I may live, for your instructions are my delight. Bring disgrace upon the arrogant people who lied about me; meanwhile, I will concentrate on your commandments. Let me be united with all who fear you, with those who know your laws. May I be blameless in keeping your decrees; then I will never be ashamed. Psalm 119:73-80

Yoda. Sound like that wise character in the Star Wars movie. Or it could sound like Yadah…used in the Bible to express praise, give thanks or confess. At any rate Yodh produces the Y sound as in English words: yes, you, yours, pay and maya. Are there words that you can think of that begin with Y with which you can use to describe God or your relationship to Him? Consider: Yesterday - He was in your yesterdays…just like He’ll be in your tomorrows. Yield – we must yield our lives to Him. You – You are nothing without the Lord. Yeast – yeast represents sin and in Christ there is no sin.

I have a cause for joy. My sins are forgiven and Jesus is Lord of my life. Just like in the song Joyful, Joyful. I adore You, Lord.

Joyful, joyful we adore You / God of glory and Lord of love / Hearts unfold like flowers before You / opening to the sun above.

Not all days are filled with joy, that is when I seek God’s unfailing love for comfort, mercy and strength. I find that in the word of God. It is there I have learned that He is worthy of praise. My hope is to be blameless and unashamed as I continue to seek and serve the Lord. He fills me with joy—regardless of my circumstances. I don’t have to “be happy” to have joy. Joy can come even with tears, sadness or difficulties.

But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress. Psalm 59:16

Prayer ~ O my Strength, to you I sing praises, for you, O God, are my refuge, the God who shows me unfailing love. Psalm 59:17. Give me sense to follow Your commands.

Verses of Salvation ~ For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes--the Jew first and also the Gentile. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a righteous person has life." Romans 1:16-17

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Sunday, June 13, 2021

What Good Things Have Happened in Your Life?

Meditate.

ט‎ [Teth] You have done many good things for me, LORD, just as you promised. I believe in your commands; now teach me good judgment and knowledge. I used to wander off until you disciplined me; but now I closely follow your word. You are good and do only good; teach me your decrees. Arrogant people smear me with lies, but in truth I obey your commandments with all my heart. Their hearts are dull and stupid, but I delight in your instructions. My suffering was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees. Your instructions are more valuable to me than millions in gold and silver. Psalm 119:65-72

You have done many good things for me, LORD, just as you promised.

What has God promised that He would do for you?

My favorite promise is that God will never leave me or forsake me. I’ve held onto this promise through struggles of grief and depression…and even through joyous times. I know that God is always with me.

What good things has the Lord done for you?

Choose which direction you will walk.
Will you follow God or Satan?

It is a good thing to look at our lives and realize that the good things didn’t just happen—nor did we “make” them happen. We’ve made good decisions that result in good things happening to us. Being honest with family and friends; in school, work, and shopping situations; and even in traffic conditions makes a difference in the outcome of circumstances. God is in those times, too, with the Holy Spirit guiding us. For me, I think it is times that I don’t follow that guidance that get me into trouble. I pray frequently…sometimes more than once a day for my grandchildren to make good decisions. It is every little decision along that way that mold our character and direct our paths. One little misstep can lead to disaster. Whether we follow God’s direction or Satan’s influence makes a difference. Whom do you choose to follow this day? If your relationship with the Lord is strong, you’ll choose His guidance and not be influenced by the satanic pressures of society. When you look at yourself at the end of the day you will be able to see what good things have happened to you today and why.

Prayer ~ Lord God…just as the people responded to Joshua when they were about to enter the Promised Land…"We will serve the LORD our God. We will obey him alone." Joshua 24:24. Whether good or not so good things happen in my life…I will still obey and serve You—for You are my Lord, my God and my Savior. I praise You with all of my heart, soul, mind and strength.

Verses of Salvation ~ God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:8-10 (Underlined for emphasis.)

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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