How long will we wander, before returning to Him?

Posts tagged ‘prayer’

135) Let God out of the box you’re keeping Him in

mount of olives

But David continued up the Mount of Olives, weeping as he went; his head was covered and he was barefoot. (2 Samuel 15:30)

Day 135 reading: 2 Samuel, chapters 13-15

Between today’s scripture reading and another book I am reading by Mark Batterson, “The Circle Maker,” I am all about God’s testing and our response of ultimate faith in our very BIG God! Here, David was trusting the Lord for direction through uncertainty, just as you and I have to do every day, too.

It is too easy to put God into this neat little box that fits just exactly where we think He should be. We bring Him out when we think we need to, but leave Him boxed on our shelves, or in our purse, or our pocket when we’ve got everything under control. Some days we forget how powerful He is, yet how simple our prayers need to be to be heard an answered.

I don’t know how much this book corresponds with today’s scripture reading, but with recent events in the news of child abductions and recovery, and this biblical history of Tamar’s rape by her own half-brother, I believe we all need to step up and surround ourselves in a prayerful wall. Trusting God as we circle around our children, our marriages, and career paths, our parents and in-laws, our friends, and all those we love. When we circle around them in deep devotion to God and in faith that He will keep His promises, we will see His love and grace unfolding in front of us, our faith will be further strengthened, and our walk with Him more steady with each step.

These are the road signs we are looking for, but we can’t see them when we don’t look for Him through opened eyes. I believe David had his eyes closed for a moment when all of these things were going on in his kingdom. Right under his own nose, his own son Amnon used David as a puppet in his desire for Tamar. And David’s own brother acted as an accomplice.

I’m here to give every person I love to the Lord for His ultimate protection, and trust that He is much more powerful than my human mind can fathom.

Make it a great day,
Marilyn

Tomorrow’s scripture reading: Psalms, chapters 3-4, 12-13, 28 & 55

Category:

2 Samuel, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Children, Faith, Prayer, Seeing God, Trust

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133) David was Only Human

Day 133 reading: 2 Samuel, chapters 11-12

David was only human. I have to remind myself of this fact now and then while reading through the scriptures. So many of the great biblical heroes we read about still have very human weaknesses, just like you and I have them. Just when I find myself shaking my head in frustration with David, I get the gentle reminder that I have made my own share of decisions that I purposefully didn’t consult God in. Granted, those decisions don’t ever go well, yet we still forget from time to time that He is God and we are not. There’s only been one perfect human and we aren’t Him, either. So where does that leave us?

search“One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace.” (11:2, NIV) This is the first time I’ve caught that this was nighttime, and that David had to get up from bed in the night to walk around on his palace roof. Every other time I have read the story or heard it told in Sunday School or sermons, I have pictured him taking a daily afternoon or even morning stroll, but this “got up from bed and walked,” detail adds something to my understanding.

The story of David on his rooftop in the night, spying on the city he ruled reminds me of a Zig Ziglar quote that says, in essence, that “Hypocrites are those who complain about the filth on their own VCRs.” I picture David’s rooftop stroll kind of like the person who sneaks out of bed at night to dig in the cookies, or look at unsavory things on the internet. He was looking all around his city, and from the roof of his palace, David could see everything. Nothing was censored  and  just like the person online looking at porn doesn’t accidentally click on the stuff, and just like no one forces us to eat too much or get up in the night for fatty snacks, David got exactly what he was looking for. He found a beautiful woman, bathing, thinking she was safe from view.

After all the blessings the Lord had bestowed on David, and all that He gives us each and every day, we all make these human errors in judgement.  And when we make these errors, as when David did, it displeased the Lord. (11:27)

Then, the Lord sent a messenger from God to remind David that He sees and knows all. The Lord sent Nathan to David. (12:1, NIV) If I think back on times when I know I have made human errors that have displeased the Lord, I can also remember people of reminders that I know the Lord has sent to me, reminders of my errors in judgement, so that I could not just brush these mistakes under the rug and pretend they never happened. “Why did you despise the word of the Lord by doing what was evil in His eyes?” Nathan asked of David. (12:9, NIV) Just as He still does for us, the Lord reminded David of this sin. He sent Nathan, He allowed a baby to be conceived by David and Bathsheba, and then He took that baby away. The Lord sent reminders and David got the message and the punishment.

After all of the punishment David endured, he persevered through his ultimate faith in God, and he was redeemed in being blessed by his next son to Bathsheba, Solomon, whom we will certainly be studying soon. But let’s always allow ourselves to remember that even the mightiest fall and we must always guard our hearts and our eyes from things the Lord doesn’t want us to see.

Make it a great day,
Marilyn

Day 134 reading: Psalms, chapters 32, 51, 86, and 122

Dear Lord, thank you for all of the blessings we already enjoy and recognize to be all from you. Lord, speak to us through your living Word, that we may learn from the mistakes and trappings of those humans who have gone before us so that we can exercise more control and keep you at the forefront of everything, especially when sin and temptation seeks after us. Lord, protect and guide us. It is in your name we pray. Amen.

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2 Samuel, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Children, Faith, Forgiveness, Perseverance, Prayer, Seeing God, Trust

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131) We’re in this for the long haul!

David dancing worshipDay 131 reading: 2 Samuel, chapter 10; 1 Chronicles, chapter 19; Psalm 20

Today, my friends is a joyous day for all. We were given life eternal and today marks another day that we are able to live life and share His love with the world.

David thought, “I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, just as his father showed kindness to me.” (2 Sam. 10:2, 1 Chronicles 19:2, NIV)

We ought to show kindness to our brothers and sisters in Him, just as He has shown kindness to each of us. The kindness will not always be well-received, but you and I only have control over our outward expression of love, and no control over other’s response.

In the case of David and his armies, they lost a small battle in the initial humiliation of his men whom he had sent to offer condolences; but they certainly won the war. As Joab said, “Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The Lord will do what is good in His sight.” (2 Samuel 10:12, 1 Chronicles 19:13, NIV)

It’s not simply cliche to say that God helps us win the wars we fight every day, even if we must lose some smaller battles along the way. It is Truth. “Some trust in chariots and some trust in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” (Psalm 20:7, NIV) I believe that verse could be restated any number of ways to apply to each of our lives daily.

  • Some trust in guns and some trust in knives, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
  • Some trust in their own human understanding and some trust in their pride, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
  • Some trust in __________ and some trust in __________, bu we trust in the name of the Lord our God. (What does YOUR version of this statement say?)

Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven with the saving strength of His right hand. (Psalms 20:6, NASB)

Have the faith and trust to serve Him and know that sometimes in our human eyes we lose some battles but through trusting Him and His guidance, we will each win the war! Amen!!!

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 132 reading: Psalms, chapters 65-67, 69-70

Dear Lord, Please give us all the desires of our hearts and make all of Your plans succeed through us. (from Psalms 20:4, NIV) Thank you for Your blessings, Your mercy and Your ever-flowing love. Please protect and guide each of us as we go through our daily lives, serving You and doing all You have sent us to do. Amen.

Category:

1 Chronicles, 2 Samuel, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Eternity, Faith, Perseverance, Psalms, Seeing God, Service, Trust

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130) Offer Ourselves Unto the Lord

Day 130 reading: Psalms, chapters 50, 53, 60 & 75

Psalm 50 opens with a reminder that all already belongs to the Lord. He needs nothing. But when we offer ourselves and our material riches up to Him, its not out of His need to receive but our need to give.

Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High: And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and this shalt glorify me. (50:14-15, KJV)

And the line that stands out above all. The line that punches me right in the gut:

“You thought that I was just like you.” (50:21, NASB)

It is so easy to make God, the Lord of Heavens and Earth, Creator of all, just another pal. There’s a comic strip that I’ve seen circulating lately aptly called, “Coffee With Jesus.” I love it because so much of it focuses on remembering that He was man, but also God…Here’s the link  just in case you need a reminder in the form of a giggle: http://radiofreebabylon.com/Comics/CoffeeWithJesus.php

USA flag

My King James Bible titles Psalms 60 “Prayer for National Deliverance” which strikes me more today than it likely would have even five or ten years ago. Now, more than ever, we are in need of national and world-wide deliverance. He is able. He is the only one who is able.

Make it a great day,
Marilyn

Day 131 reading: 2 Samuel, chapter 10; 1 Chronicles, chapter 19; Psalms, chapter 20

Dear Lord, Please look down from heaven and see all those who adore you. You seek our understanding and our longing, (from 53:2, NASB) Lord, and I pray you see that in each of us. Lord, please bless our studies with understanding and our actions with your purpose. It is in your holy have I pray. Amen.

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Creation, Prayer, Psalms, Seeing God

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127) For God is with You

The Lord is with you. (2 Sam. 7:3, NIV)prayer

Day 127 reading: 2 Samuel, chapter 7; 1 Chronicles, chapter 17

And He is with you and I every day, too. Isn’t the freedom that comes with knowing our Lord on a personal level amazing? I often feel sad for people who prescribe to religious notions that lock them into rules over faith and grace. Yes, He expects much from us, but the truth is that He gives much in return. When we give our lives over to Him, we hand Him the keys to our hearts and follow the path He lays before our feet. Then, just as the prophet Nathan said to David:

“Do all that is in your heart, for God is with you.” (1 Chronicles 17:2, NASB)

When He leads us, the notions of our hearts are all for Him and for His purpose. Together, let us follow our hearts directly to our Lord God Almighty!

In closing, I wanted to share this One Minute Sermon that I was led to and wanted to share with you friends. It’s one minute well spent! Praise God!

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Tomorrow’s scripture reading: Psalms, chapters 25, 29, 33, 36, and 39

Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house, that You have brought me this far? For the sake of Your word, and according to Your own heart, You have done all this greatness to let your servant know. For this reason You are great, O Lord God; for there is none like You, and there is no God besides You, according to all that we have heard with our ears. Now, O Lord God, You are God, and Your words are truth, and You have promised this good thing to Your servant. Now therefore, may it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue forever before You. For You, O Lord God, have spoken; and with Your blessing may the house of Your servant be blessed forever. Amen. (from 2 Samuel 7: 18, 21-22, 28-29, NASB)

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1 Chronicles, 2 Samuel, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Faith, Hope, Praise, Video Posts

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125) Let God Arise!

For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. (Psalms 1:6, KJV)

Day 125 reading: Psalms, chapters 1-2, 15, 22-24, 47, and 68Psalm 1 2

Lately, I have been thinking of my guardian angels quite a bit. Today’s reading doesn’t cover them, but it still brings my thoughts to light.

He said to me, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father.” (2:7, NIV) 

My personal walk has been quite unscathed. I look around me and see pain and destruction, and I thank the Lord for the troops of guardian angels that must be guarding my every step, keeping my family and I safe, preventing harm and stopping me from walking in the path of despair. That thought comforted me as I went to sleep last night, and I hope similar thoughts comfort you in the dark of night and the light of day as they do me.

Friends, we serve the Lord, the God of all, our Father, who loves us each enough to call us Son or Daughter, His Children. We walk in His light and he directs our path, because He loves us.

Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?
He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous,
Who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue,
Who does high neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman,
Who despiese a vile man but honors those who fear the Lord,
Who keeps his oath even when it hurts,
Who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things will never be shaken. (15:1-5, NIV)

I find that the more time I spend in earnest prayer, the easier my path becomes, or maybe the more clearly I see the way. It’s not that there are never human obstacle and challenges, but they don’t ruffle my feathers, so to speak, when I pray without ceasing.

Isn’t today’s reading a beautiful testimony to the Spirit of the Lord, who dwells within each of us? The Lord lived with and in King David. He gave David words to speak and write and sing. Chapter 22′s foretelling of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion is nothing less than the inspired word of God, spoken through David. David was in constant prayer and communion with the Lord. He can work through each of us just as powerfully as He worked through David then, but we must open our hearts to Him and listen when He speaks.

I fear no evil, for You are with me. (23:4, NASB)

This is the generation of those who seek Him. (24:6, NASB)

O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph. (47:1, KJV)

In all the gloom and doom that twirls constantly around us, isn’t it refreshing to open up the Psalms and read these words which are so uplifting and full of images of a such a gracious heavenly Father.

God is [already] beginning to arise, and His enemies to scatter. (68:1, Amplified) God places the solitary in families and gives the desolate a home in which to dwell; He leads the prisoners out to prosperity; but the rebellious dwell in a parched land. (68:6, Amplified)

That is so powerful! God places those who call on him where they will more completely feel His love. He surrounds the lonely with loving people;  He frees us from the chains of brokenness. When we feel alone, we must remember this verse and be filled.

Friends, I pray for you every day and want your every moment to be filled to the brim with His Spirit, in ways that you know with every breath and every step.

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 126 reading: Psalms, chapters 89, 96, 100, 101, 105, & 132

Dear Lord, Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help. (22:11, NIV)

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Children, Eternity, Faith, Hope, Perseverance, Praise, Prayer, Psalms, Seeing God, Trust

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123) His Love Endures FOREVER

Day 123 reading: Psalms, chapters 106-107

His love endures forever! (106:1, NIV)

prayerRemember me, O Lord, when you show favor to your people, come to my aid when you save them, that I may enjoy the prosperity of your chosen ones, that I may share in the joy of your nation and join your inheritance in giving praise. (106:4-5, NIV)

He saved them from the hand of the foe; from the hand of the enemy he redeemed them. The waters covered their adversaries; not one of them survived. Then they believed his promises and sang his praise. But they soon forgot what he had done and did not wait for his counsel. (106:10-13, NIV)

They yoked themselves to the Baal of Peor and ate sacrifices offered to lifeless gods. (106:28, NIV)

Nevertheless he looked upon their distress when He heard their cry; and He remembered His covenant for their sake, and relented according to the greatness of His lovingkindness. He also made them objects of compassion in the presence of all their captors. (106:44-46, NASB)

Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He sent forth his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave. (107:19-20, NIV)

Whoever is wise, let him heed these things and consider the great love of the Lord. (107:43, NIV)

Friends, these are the words of our forefathers’ lives, but they are also our own personal stories. How often do we seem to be flying high with His Most High one day and crash land on a desert island the next? God didn’t promise that every day would be easy; that’s not what following Him is about. He didn’t say there wouldn’t be struggles. But He does assure us again and again through His Word remind us that He loves us beyond all measure and that the best way for you and I to show Him we love him back is to have faith in Him.

Make it a great day,
Marilyn

Day 124 reading: 2 Samuel 5:11-25; 2 Samuel 6:1-23; 1 Chronicles, chapters 13-16

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Eternity, Faith, Perseverance, Prayer, Quiet time, Seeing God, Trust

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120) Let My Cry for Help Come to You, O Lord!

Day 120 reading: Psalms, chapters 102-104praise 2

Hear my prayer, O Lord; let my cry for help come to you. (102:1, NIV)

Sometimes, don’t we just need some validation that He truly hears the prayers of our hearts?

My heart is blighted and withered like grass; I forget to eat my food. (102:4, NIV)

The Bread of Life is food for our spirit and keeps us in better alignment with our Lord.

My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like grass. (102:11, NIV)

When we are separated from Him, doesn’t every day feel hollow, like we are just going through the motions of living without true purpose, no matter how “busy” we make ourselves?

But you remain the same, and your years will never end. The children of your servants will live in your presence; their descendants will be established before you. (102:27-28, NIV)

His world endures forever, but our lives come and go. But as we bring more life into this world, it is our duty to bring more Life to each life as we lead our children to Him.

Bless the Lord. O my soul,
And forget none of His benefits;
Who pardons all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases;
Who redeems your life from the pit,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion;
Who satisfies your years with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle. (103:2-5, NASB)

He gives all and we have the audacity to think we have anything to do with any of our accomplishments.

The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. (103:8-10, NIV)

It makes a chill run up my spine to think of how my life would be if He treated me as I deserved based on all the sins of my lifetime.

How many are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. (104:24, NIV)

I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my god as long as I live. May my meditation be pleasing to him, as I rejoice in the Lord. But may sinners vanish from the earth and the wicked be no more. Praise Lord, O my soul. Praise the Lord. (104:33-35, NIV)

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 121 reading: 2 Samuel 5:1-10 and 1 Chronicles, chapters 11-12

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Eternity, Healing, Perseverance, Prayer, Psalms, Seeing God, Trust

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118) I Will Triumph in the Works of Thy Hands

Sing aloud unto God  our strength: make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob. (Psalms 81:1, KJV)

Day 118 reading: Psalms, chapters 81, 88, 92-93

praiseBeautiful visions of praise like this bring up in me a great thankfulness for my church home, my church family, and for the nation in which I live that still (albeit with a fight, at times) allows me to worship God when I want to and how I want to.

More and more as the days progress, the downward slope of outward faith and praise seems to be dwindling in the United States as a whole. I hope this is an untruth. I know in my own church home the praise is still loud and proud! But what about the people outside of our church walls and our own personal reach?

At what point to do we each reach beyond our reach and reach out to others? I throw this out there knowing full well that outreach is the furthest thing from my comfort zone when it comes to my Christian walk. I love to write and talk about my faith and reach out through my words, but the verbal is certainly limited to those who already share a strong faith. I’m not comfortable in the missions or doing outreach projects, and I am actually ashamed to share that with you, but feel compelled to just the same.

I have felt for some time that my mission is for those who know the way but have slipped. Those who were once on their path to righteousness, but who have lost their way among the wolves. This is my comfort zone as I was there. I lived with the wolves, I drank with the wolves, and I took on their ways.

Thou has laid me in the lowest it, in darkness, in the deeps. Thy wrath lieth hard upon me, and thou hast afflicted me with all thy waves. (88:6-7, KJV)

I knew better, but I did the opposite of what I knew. Now, I sing aloud to Him; He is my Strength and my Redeemer.

O Lord God of my salvation, I have cried day and night before thee: Let my prayer come before thee: incline thine ear unto my cry; for my soul is full of troubles: and my life draweth nigh unto the grave. (88:1-3, KJV)

For thou, Lord, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands. O Lord, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep. (92:4-5, KJV)

Doing the works of the Lord serves well and pleases my heart as it also pleased Him. When He leads us to serve, we will triumph. With Him leading the way, we cannot fail. And the key that I personally have to keep in mind is that failure by human standards is quite different that it is by His standards. Our timeline is not always His timeline. Things we may see as failures may actually be a part of His grand plan. It’s wonderful to know that when we put our faith in God, and our works in action, His Will will be done.

More than the sounds of many waters;
Than the mighty breakers of the sea,
The Lord on high is mighty.
Your testimonies are fully confirmed;
Holiness befits Your house,
O Lord, forevermore. (93:4-5, NASB)

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 119 reading: 1 Chronicles, chapters 7-10

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Faith, Forgiveness, Healing, Hope, Perseverance, Prayer, Psalms, Seeing God, Service, Trust

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115) Because the Battle was God’s

Day 115 reading: 1 Chronicles, chapters 3-5summer morning path

God handed the Hagrites and all their allies over to them, because they cried out to him during battle. He answered their prayers, because they trusted in him. (5:20, NIV)

Whether on a small or large scale, we wage wars daily. The Word gives up so many examples of calling out to Him and winning the battles of life. We have the greatest ally there is in Him and His army of angels fighting for us and protecting us every moment. That is nothing short of phenomenal.

On my personal walk with God, I am reminded daily that on my own I cannot live up to the standards I feel are worthy of our Lord, or our Savior’s sacrifice. I stumble–some days a little and some days a lot. Some days I stumble over my own self and pride that I fall flat on my face. In those days I am especially grateful that as much as the falls hurt, Jesus Christ bore all of the pain I should be feeling on Himself, because He knew I could not handle it all.

When I fall, I remember the battle was God’s (5:22, NIV) and that allows me to brush myself off and get back to my feet. I am not walking alone.

When we are truly humbled in the face of God, we cry out as Jabez did in his now infamous prayer that is still very much worth repeating daily:

“Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hands be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” AND GOD GRANTED HIS REQUEST. (4:10, NIV)

Praise be to the Lord God Almighty.

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 116 reading: Psalms, chapters 73, 77-78

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1 Chronicles, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Forgiveness, Healing, Hope, Perseverance, Prayer, Seeing God, Trust

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114) Better is ONE DAY in Your Courts

Now that we’re really sinking our teeth into the meat of the Old Testament, I am even more pleased with the way the Word is opening up to me.  This is why I chose to read the Bible chronologically instead of straight through cover-to-cover as I had done before; by reading chronologically everything is put into context.

For instance, I have really enjoyed reading David’s psalms, which are like his own personal journal entries, written approximately the same time as we are reading the history of what was happening in his life. This has already been such a fascinating journey for me and I hope you have enjoyed it, as well.

Day 114 reading: Psalms, chapters 43-45, 49, 84-85, 87

In today’s reading, I was particularly drawn to the King James translation of these psalms. They were beautifully written and, for me, encompassed the essence of what the Psalmist was most wanting to convey.

O send out thy light and they truth; let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles. (43:3, KJV)

Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them. (84:5, KJV)

Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness; therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. (45:7, KJV)

Man that is in honour, and understandeth not, is like the beasts that perish. (49:20, KJV)

Those scriptures are absolutely beautiful and so packed with meaning. Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee. Send out they light and they truth and let them lead me. Please, Lord, give me honour and understanding. It’s like a cleansing rain falling down on me as I read these scriptures and know that even the Lord’s anointed sometimes felt alone, that even they sometimes begged Him for vindication, and that even they prayed for guidance as they walked along the path.

Rise up and help us; redeem us because of your unfailing love. (45:26, NIV)

My mother did something so neat for me after reading Day 113′s article; she brought me over an envelope of genealogy for her father’s side of the family. The Lord will count when He registers the peoples, “This one was born there.” (87:6, NASB) It has been so much fun pouring over the names and birth years and all that was revealed just through the most basic information. Some names popped out from the pages that I had heard for years from my grandparents but had never really put into context, and some friendly heart stirrings of people that I miss.

Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. (84:10-11, NIV)

Why should I fear when evil days come, when wicked deceivers surround me–those who trust in their wealth and boast of their great riches? No man can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for him–the ransom for any life is costly, no payment is ever enough–that he should live on forever and not decay. (49:5-9, NIV)

But God will redeem me from the power of Sheol (the place of the dead); for He will receive me. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! (49:15, Amplified)

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 105 reading: 1 Chronicles, chapters 3-5

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Eternity, Faith, Forgiveness, Prayer, Psalms, Trust

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113) Family Lines & Biblical Times

Today’s scripture passage: 1 Chronicles, chapters 1-2

 

…and more begats and chiefs and lists…

Morgans 14th Birthday 2013 (12) RFE

And this is where our Living Word becomes a little more difficult for me to relate. The fact of the matter is that in today’s culture, roots and lineage and family lines and history are no longer at the forefront. Today, it seems, “family” is more defined by friends and the closest of relatives and relationships rather than the generations that shared our bloodline. Personally, I don’t think I can name the history of my family in full beyond the preceding two generations. I have a hard enough time keeping up with my own parents, husband, and five children from day to day. I am ashamed of this fact as I read through my Bible in a Year–or 365 days, whichever the case may be–because the Lord obviously holds our lineage more highly than many of us do in present times. How do we keep the bloodline and the stories and the history of “our people” strong even through all of the dilutions of divorce and preoccupation? How do I ensure that my children know at least as much about my parents and grandparents as I know, while encouraging them to also learn what they can beyond what I can teach them?

My friends, as much as the family listings are difficult for me to read, this fact of my lack of knowledge is even more difficult. Is there anyone else who feels the same or similar? And, are there any others who have found that balance between the past and present? I love to hear from all!

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 114 reading: Psalms, chapters 43-45, 49, 84-85, 87

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1 Chronicles, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Children

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112) My Prayer through the Psalms

Day 112 reading: Psalms, chapters 6, 8-10, 14, 16, 19, & 21

My prayer through David’s words:

BibleO Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth, who have displayed Your splendor alive the heavens! (8:1, NASB) When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained; what is bad that You take thought of him, and the son of man that You care for him? (8:3-4, NASB) I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will show forth all thy marvelous works. I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High. (9:1-2, KJV) I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. (16:8, Amplified) Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. (16:5, NIV) Away from me, all you who do evil, for the Lord has heard my weeping. The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer. (6:8-9, NIV) The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. (9:9, KJV) The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. (19:7-8, NASB) O Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble; You will strengthen their heart, You will incline Your ear. (10:17, NASB) I will bless the Lord who has counseled me; indeed, my mind instructs me in the night. (16:7, NASB) Will evildoers never learn–those who devour my people as men eat bread and who do not call on the Lord? There they are, overwhelmed with dread, for God is present in the company of the righteous. (14:4-5, NIV) For You, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You. (9:10, NASB) Who can discern his errors? Forgive my hidden faults. Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then I will be blameless, innocent of great transgression. (19:12-13, NIV) Preserve me, O God; for in thee do I put my trust. (16:1, KJV) For I trust in the Lord; through the unfailing love of the Most High I will not be shaken. (21:7, NIV) Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. (19:14, KJV) AMEN!

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 113 reading: 1 Chronicles, chapters 1-2

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Faith, Forgiveness, Hope, Perseverance, Prayer, Psalms, Trust

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110) Tangible Hope

Stepping Up Beth MooreAhhhh, the Psalms of the Ascents. I know I reference Beth Moore time and again, but the studies the Lord creates through her are amazing and so relate-able.

I have previously studied the Psalms of the Ascents (Psalms 120-134) in the Beth Moore study, Stepping Up, and her insight into them is so wonderfully in-depth.

Today, we are going to study some of those Psalms and it’s going to be like going home for me. I hope you each enjoy today’s scripture reading as much as I do, or MOORE! ;-)

Today’s scripture passage: Psalms, chapters 121, 123-125, 128-130

I lift up my eyes to the hills– where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. (121:1-2, NIV)

In the Stepping Up study, Beth (yes, I pretend that we are on a first-name basis) gives a ton of historical background information, which is not only exciting but really opens up these scriptures in a whole new way. I’m not even going to venture into an attempt to retell all of the information she shared, because I know I would not do it justice, except to say that these Psalms were written as songs that were sung by these groups of people on the road to or from pilgrimages. They are prayers for protection, they are songs of revival and rejoicing, they are songs for inner peace and inner strength through He who leads us all. These are powerful Psalms!

He will not let your foot slip–he who watches over you will not slumber. (121:3, NIV)

Does anyone else out there ever fall asleep while trying to pray? I don’t know how many of my bedtime prayers I actually get finished with “Amen” before I fall into a peaceful slumber, but let me admit right here and now that the odds aren’t good. Maybe there is just something that comes over me, such a peace that sleep is really the only natural thing to do…even if it does come in the middle of prayer. I console myself with the knowledge that I pray several more times each day, both formally in quiet time and informally more in conversation mode with my best friend, but still, falling asleep during prayer isn’t something to brag about.

Our Lord never sleeps, though! He watches over us, lives with us, dwells within us every moment of every day, without fail. Isn’t that an amazing, wonderful, overwhelmingly cool thing to let sink in? It’s like sometimes I know that and sometimes I know it. Sometimes, His Presence hits me and I can’t do a thing but smile and kind of hug myself, and in hugging myself, I am hugging Him. It’s just cool.

The Lord will keep you from all harm–he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. (121:7-8, NIV)

I realize that people in this world view what I am about to say from so many different angles that I can hardly even fathom all the reasoning, but I believe this is a great scripture to share this belief with you. I believe that the Lord does not cause bad things to happen to those of us who believe in Him, but He is not going to allow something bad happen without using it to further His kingdom in some way. Death happens all around us, every day, and each of us are effected by it. We’ve all lost loved ones to sickness and death, we’ve all known tragedy, but it’s how we react to those times and grow from it that makes all the difference in His world. There are people I have lost, dear wonderful loved ones, and just when I get sad and down in the dumps because they’re not here to share this life with me any more, I take solace in the fact that 1)They’re in heaven, and 2)I got to know them when they walked the earth. My life was better from knowing them, and hopefully my life can be a better influence on someone else, as well.

Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He is gracious to us. (123:2, NASB)

God does not clock in and out by human standards. Our time is not His time, so we must look to Him always with patience. We know not His plan. We know not His timeline. We look to Him and as we do, in His time, He reveals His plan for each of our lives one step at a time.

Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth. (124:8, NASB)

Isn’t it a wonderfully beautiful thing, this timeless gift of the Living Word of God? As relevant today as it was in the time of David.

Those who trust in the Lord as as Mount Zion, which cannot be moved by abides forever. (125:1, NASB)

mt fugiDon’t you just love that imagery? My faith in the Lord makes me like a mighty mountain, unmovable and under His protection.

Do good, O Lord, to those who are good and to those who are upright in their hearts. (125:4, NASB)

I wish sometimes that people could see more of what’s in my heart than what I wear on my sleeve. Sometimes, my natural human response is so much harder and colder than my inner heart response is to a person or situation. Can anyone relate? My heart overflows with love and compassion, but my logical mind takes over oftentimes before my generous heart can over-ride it. I want to live upright in heart, but I also want to show more of that uprightness (I’m just making up all kinds of words today) in my outward self, as well. I’ll have to really work on that one; the “softer side” of Marilyn.

Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways. (128:1, KJV)

YOU are blessed, my friends! I am blessed. We have a healthy fear of the Lord that keeps us in His Word, that keeps us in prayerful conversation with Him, and that keeps each of us on the straight-and-narrow looking to Him for guidance and protection. We look to Him with faithful expectation, and for that we are blessed.

I would like to close today’s thoughts with rereading the final Psalm in the King James translation. Psalms 130:

Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O lord.

Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.

If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?

But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.

I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.

My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.

Let Israel hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption.

And he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.

We cry out to Him and He hears our every word. Without Him, there is no hope. With Him, we have everything. We have hope!

Although I am not really an evangelical person, scriptures like today’s passages make me want to get out and help others find hope who may not know Him otherwise. There are so many who do not know how tangible hope truly is, but in knowing the Lord, we know all that can be and is through Him who gives hope and mercy all the days of our lives.

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Tomorrow’s scripture reading: 2 Samuel, chapters 1-4

The blessing of the Lord be upon you; we bless you in the name of the Lord. (129:8, KJV)

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Faith, Hope, Perseverance, Prayer, Psalms, Trust

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109) Satan Wants You to FEEL alone!

wpid-imag0851The Lord has rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands He has recompensed me. For I have kept the ways of the Lord, and have not wickedly departed from my God. (Psalms 18:20-21, NASB)

Day 109 reading: 1 Samuel, chapters 28-31 & Psalms, chapter 18

When Saul was distressed, he called on the Lord and got nothing. Maybe a cricket hummed in the distance. But when David called, in his humble way, the Lord answered and led.

When Saul saw the Philistine army, he was afraid; terror filled his heart. He inquired of the Lord, but the Lord did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets. (1 Samuel 28:5-6, NIV)

What a difference that is from David’s calling upon the Lord:

In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried to my God for help; He heard my voice out of His temple, and my cry for help before Him came into His ears. (Psalms 18:6, NASB)

When we walk upright in the Lord and hold Him close in our hearts, He knows and He responds to us, as well. There are times when it is easier to act holy than actually have a heart for the holiness of our Lord, but we must continually call upon Him to keep our hearts right and our eyes looking to Him for our guidance. It is when we feel the most alone that we are the most likely to look to other sources for our fulfillment.

He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from those who hated me, for they were too mighty for me. They confronted me in the day of my calamity, but the Lord was my stay. (Psalms 18:17-18, NASB)

Satan wants us to feel alone, to be on the outskirts, to be easy to reach; the Lord wants us to be together, living with other Christians and being held up in our times of need, never feeling alone or abandoned by Him or our brothers and sisters in Him.

When David and his men returned home to find their wives and children abducted and all the town destroyed, they wept aloud until they had no strength left to weep…But David found strength in the Lord his God. (1 Samuel 30:4 & 6, NIV)

Like Job and so many great men of our biblical history before him, David found strength in the Lord, even in his darkest hour, even when all seemed lost to the human eye. Oh, my friends, we have so much to glean from this Living Word.

The Lord has rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands He has recompensed me. For I have kept the ways of the Lord, and have not wickedly departed from my God. (Psalms 18:20-21, NASB)

Dear friends, my prayer is that each of us reading along on this journey or stumbling over this posting in a seemingly random happenstance, allow our Bibles to open up to us each in a whole new way, with fresh eyes and a completely fresh understanding. Every day that I read, I want to read and catch something I’ve never noticed before or understand some point or passage deeper than any previous time. Through Him, we can do just that! Through prayer and communion and faithfulness, He will continue to reveal so much “newness” to us through these pages and this study that at the end of our 365 day journey, we will have a completely new and exciting view of the inspired Word of God and my prayer is that each of us will be better equipped to go out into the world and share the Word with others. The Lord doesn’t want even one sheep to go astray, and each day He is making shepherds of each of us.

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Tomorrow’s scripture reading: Psalms, chapters 121, 123-125, & 128-130

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1 Samuel, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Children, Faith, Gifts & Talents, Healing, Prayer, Psalms, Trust

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107) We are each under His care and guidance–Glory!

Day 108 reading: 1 Samuel, chapters 25-27

Don’t you just love the study of David? It’s awesome reading of the Lord’s works through this man.

Do you ever feel like you’re so surrounded by bad that you truly need a miracle for the good to shine through? Oh yeah, we’ve all been there at some point; maybe some are there now and today’s passage is just what you needed to read to help you out of that rut.

Now think it over and see what you can do, because disaster is hanging over our master and his whole household. He is such a wicked man that no one can talk to him. (25:17, NIV)

It stinks to feel as David did, like you are being paid back evil for good. (25:21, NIV)

I love how David first takes the fully human approach of taking up his swords and troops and heading toward battle, but then is stopped dead in his tracks by the Lord’s control over the situation. God worked through Abigail to keep David from sinning and taking matters into his own human hands.

When David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, “Praise be to the Lord, who has upheld my cause against Nabal for treating me with contempt. He has kept his servant from doing wrong and has brought Nabal’s wrongdoing down on his own head.” (25:39, NIV)

As a woman, I also have to giggle that the wife was the rational, faithful servant in this scenario, and David tells her, “May you be blessed for your good judgement” and then soon blesses her with a marriage proposal (25:33, NIV)

BibleNow, we move on to more of the ongoing struggle between David and King Saul, and it strikes me that the Bible really is better than the finest piece of English literature or the most highly acclaimed Hollywood blockbuster. Again, David has ample opportunity to end Saul and again he spares him.

But David said to Abishai, “Don’t destroy him! Who can lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed and be guiltless? As surely as the Lord lives,” he said, “the Lord himself will strike him; either his time will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. But the Lord forbid that I should lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed. Now get the spear and water jug that are near his head, and let’s go.” (26:9-11, NIV)

David never forgot that Saul was appointed king by a higher power. But he still did a little something to point out to Saul what he could have done. I would have been interested to see the king’s face when he awoke the next morning and noticed what was missing.

The Lord rewards every man for his righteousness and faithfulness. (26:23, NIV)

I feel so blessed to be a child of God; to be under His care and guidance.

Make it a great day,
Marilyn

Day 108 reading: Psalms, chapters 17, 35, 54, & 63

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1 Samuel, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Faith, Forgiveness, Perseverance, Rules worth LIVING by, Seeing God, Trust

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106) My Prayer for Our Day

Day 106 reading: Psalms, chapters 56, 120, & 140-142

When I am afraid, I will trust in you.Prayer path (2)
In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
What can mortal man do to me? (56:3-4, NIV)

In my trouble I cried to the Lord, and He answered me.
Too long has my soul had its dwelling with those who hate peace.
I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war. (120:1, 6-7, NASB)

Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked,
Protect me from men of violence who plan to trip my feet. (140:4, NIV)

May my prayer be set before you like incense, may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice. (142:2, NIV)

When my spirit is faint within me, it is you who know my way. (142:3, NIV)

Amen, my friends.

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 107 reading: 1 Samuel, chapters 25-27

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Faith, Perseverance, Prayer, Psalms, Quiet time, Trust

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105) The Eye of God is Upon Us

Day 105 reading: Psalms, chapters 7, 27, 31, 34, & 52

PSALMS 7–Quite honestly, this song is scary enough that I’m even hesitant in my reading. David is brutally honest and laying it all on the line and that can be terrifying.

O Lord my God, in You I take refuge and put my trust; save me from all those who pursue and persecute me, and deliver me,
Lest my foe tear my life [from my body] like a lion, dragging me away while there is none to deliver.
O Lord my God, if I have done this, if there is wrong in my hands,
If I have paid back with evil him who was at peace with me or without cause have robbed him who was my enemy,
Let the enemy pursue my life and take it; yes, let him trample my life to the ground and lay my honor in the dust. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! (7:1-5, Amplified)

He is essentially saying to God, ‘Lord, if I have ever done wrong against another, strike me down here and now; repay me for all that I have sinned.’

Vindicate me, O Lord, according to my righteousness and my integrity that is in me. (7:8, NASB)

I think of all the sins I have committed that I am aware of, much less all those I don’t even realize and it’s terrifying to invite the Lord in for examination. He knows it all anyway, but as humans the difficulties come with actually facing it and laying our humility on the line.

If a man does not repent, He will sharpen His sword (7:12, NASB)

He has dug a pit and hollowed it out, And has fallen into the hole which he has made. (7:15, NASB)

PSALMS 27–I believe this psalm should be read daily. Period. It is gorgeous as a prayer, as a meditative time, as a gentle tap on the shoulder, or as a swift kick to the rumpus. It’s an amazing passage. Of the four versions I have at my fingertips, here is my favorite version. And, although I know you have already read it in your own bible, I believe it is well worth the reread. Enjoy (again):

eye of GodThe Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.
Though a host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple.
For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion; in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hid me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea. I will sing praises unto the Lord.
Here, O Lord, when I cry with my voice; have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thee face, Lord, will I seek.
Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger; thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.
Teach me thy way, O LOrd, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies; for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. (Psalms 27, KJV)

PSALMS 31–Friends, I have been struggling lately, not with my faith, but with my humanity and the world around me. I have been feeling overwhelmed at times, but still have endured absolutely nothing in comparison to David while Saul was pursuing him with every army of warriors he could muster up. We only think we have trouble! But because of my own personal struggles, this particular psalm really struck me at the heart.

Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. (31:4, NIV)

Be merciful to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and body with grief. (31:9, NIV)

But I trust in you, O Lord. (31:14, NIV)

Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord. (31:24, NIV)

I have a lot to learn about strength and faith from David. I feel blessed to even be studying him right now, as my own struggles threaten my walls.

PSALMS 34–And on the heels of that…

I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. (34:1, NASB)

I sought the Lord, and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears. (34:4, NASB)

The righteous cry, and the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (34:17-18, NASB)

My friends, as we draw closer to Him, we open the door which allows Him to draw closer to us. He is where our protection lies and without His guidance and love we are nothing. That alone is enough to bring a great big smile on my heart.

PSALMS 52–Ahh, the response to Doeg the Edomite tattle telling to Saul as to David’s whereabouts. I only wish I could be this eloquent in my insults or this well versed when going against the enemies in my life. I can absolutely see and understand why so much of the Bible is devoted to telling about David’s life, and why so many Bible studies have been written about him; he is an inspiration to us all, that even in his human errors he truly was a man with a heart for God.

Friends, may people say the same of each of us long after we are gone. Like that Amy Grant song, My Father’s Eyes, may those around us see Him reflected when they look at us.

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 106 reading: Psalms, chapters 56, 120, & 140-142

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Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Blessings, Eternity, Faith, Forgiveness, Healing, Perseverance, Prayer, Psalms, Seeing God

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104) Our Own Holy Path

Day 104 reading: 1 Samuel, chapters 21-24

“The men’s things are holy even on missions that are not holy.” (21:5, NIV)

Wouldn’t it be awesome to know that what you are doing is holy even in the midst of the unholy. The footnote on my bible says that another word for things is bodies. Don’t you love that?

“The men’s bodies are holy even on missions that are not holy.”

David and his men were on a holy path and the Lord had them protected. We are protected, as well, my friends. David acted wisely in all his ways and succeeded, and the Lord was with him. (18:14, Amplified) He is with us, as well. The Living Presence of the Lord is with you and I every step of our journey and we are so blessed to have such a Protector who loves and cherishes us more than we can even begin to fathom.

Then Saul, who was placed in his kingship by the Lord our God (per the people’s request), has prophesied and seen great works of the Lord with his own eyes, acts against the Lord in a passage that absolutely put a knot in my stomach.

Then the king ordered the guards at his side: “Turn and kill the priests of the Lord, because they too have sided with David. They knew he was fleeing, yet they did not tell me.”

But the king’s officials were not willing to raise a hand to strike the priests of the Lord.

The king then ordered Doeg, “You turn and strike down the priests.” So Doeg the Edomite turned and struck them down. That day he killed eighty-five men who wore the linen ephod. (22:17-18, NIV)

How heartbreaking it is when sinful pride gets in the way of what could be a great and wonderful journey with the Lord. Saul consulted only his own human desires for direction, but David consulted the Lord.

When David was told, Look, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and are looting the threshing floors,” he inquired of the Lord, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?”

The Lord answered him, “Go, attack the Philistines and save Keilah.” (23:1-2, NIV)

Day after day Saul searched for him, but God did not give David into his hands. (23:14, NIV)

The last passage of today’s scripture reading is so powerful that I am going to close this post with it, as well. May we all have the God-given self-control to stand upright even in the midst of evil.

The men said, “This is the day the Lord spoke of when he said to you, ‘I will give your enemy into your hands for you to deal with as you wish.’” Then David crept up unnoticed and cut off a corner of Saul’s robe.

Afterward, David was conscience-stricken for having cut off a corner of his robe. He said to his men. “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, or lift my hand against him; for he is the anointed of the Lord.” With these words David rebuked his men and did not allow them to attack Saul. And Saul left the cave and went his way.

Then David went out of the cave and called out to Saul, “My lord the king!” When Saul looked behind him, David bowed down and prostrated himself with his face to the ground. He said to Saul, “Why do you listen when men say, ‘David is bent on harming you’? This day you have seen with your own eyes how the Lord delivered you into my hands in the cave. Some urged me to kill you, but I spared you; I said, ‘I will not lift my hand against my master, because he is the Lord’s anointed.’ See, my father, look at this piece of your robe in my hand! I cut off the corner of your robe but did not kill you. Now understand and recognize that I am not guilty of wrongdoing or rebellion. I have not wronged you, but you are hunting me down to take my life. May the Lord judge between you and me. And may the Lord avenge the wrongs you have done to me, but my hand will not touch you. As the old saying goes, ‘From evildoers come evil deeds,’ so my hand will not touch you.

“Against whom has the king of Israel come out? Whom are you pursuing? A dead dog? A flea? May the Lord be our judge and decide between us. May he consider my cause and uphold it; may he vindicate me by delivering me from your hand.”

God is the ultimate artist; His work is showcased every day in the big and small things.

God is the ultimate artist; His work is showcased every day in the big and small things.

When David finished saying this, Saul asked, “Is that your voice, David my son?” And he wept aloud. “You are more righteous than I,” he said. “You have treated me well, but I have treated you badly. You have just now told me of the good you did to me; the Lord delivered me into your hands, but you did not kill me. When a man finds his enemy, does he let him get away unharmed? May the Lord reward you well for the way you treated me today. I know that you will surely be king and that the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hands. Now swear to me by the Lord that you will not cut off my descendants or wipe out my name form my father’s family.”

So David gave his oath to Saul. Then Saul returned home, but David and his men went up to the strongholds. (24:4-22, NIV)

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 105 reading: Psalms 7, 27, 31, 34, & 52

Category:

1 Samuel, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Perseverance, Prayer, Rules worth LIVING by, Trust

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102) Without Him, I Am Nothing

My friends, I have to admit something to you: I am writing right now to avoid watching a doomsday movie with my man. Steve is watching 2012. I tried to sit through it, but just couldn’t. I’m a little Pollyannaish, I suppose, but that’s mighty fine with me. I know the world as we know it will come to an end in the Lord’s time, but I do not want to plan for it or fear it. Period. I don’t want to watch movies about it. I don’t want to hear news speculations or sermons on the subject. I want to do my human best to live as God teaches us to live and know that when the time comes to call me home, I will be ready.

I just had to get that off my chest…because I can still hear the crashing and screams of the TV screen from five rooms away and it kind of makes me want to crawl out of my skin.

Day 102  reading: 1 Samuel, chapters 15-17

kings crownThen the word of the Lord came to Samuel, saying, “I regret that I made Saul king, for he has turned back from following Me and has not carried out My commands.” And Samuel was distressed and cried out to the Lord all night. (15:10-11, NASB)

I always find it interesting when our Lord and Creator goes the human route. He knows all, foresees all, and has since before any of us were even created, yet He says He regrets making Saul the leader of His people. They asked for a king because He wasn’t enough in their eyes, and they got what they asked for. He knew all along how things were going to turn out, yet He allowed it to happen.

So many times I have thought, ‘Lord, you won’t regret freeing me. I’m going to do all you want me to do and then some.’ Then what happens? I slip. I slip and slip again and every time I get back up with the Lord’s grace and often times I make more promises. How many times can we slip up and be rescued by Him before we actually make a difference in our own lives to truly serve Him and not slip any more? Is it possible to live a slip-free existence from this day forward? Jesus Christ was the only perfect human; all the rest of us are severely flawed. Thank God for His grace that covers us, but can’t we really start to put forth an effort right now, right this second? YES! I do not want the Lord to regret putting me in the position He has, and I don’t want that for any of you, either. Let Him use you, and put everything you have into fulfilling the job He has given you.

Samuel said, “Although you were once small in your own eyes, did you not become the head of the tribes of Israel? The Lord anointed you king over Israel. And he sent you on a mission, saying, ‘Go and completely destroy those wicked people, the Amalekites; make war on them until you have wiped them out.’ Why did you not obey the Lord? Why did you pounce on the plunder and do evil in the eyes of the Lord?”

“But I did obey the Lord,” Saul said. “I went on the mission the Lord assigned me. I completely destroyed the Amalekites and brought back Agag their king. The soldiers took sheep and cattle from the plunder, the best of what was devoted to God, in order to sacrifice them to the Lord your God at Gilgal.” (15:17-21, NIV)

How often do we do what we think God wants us to do, but end up really fulfilling our human versions of the Lord’s wishes for our lives? How often do we follow the path He has laid before us so clearly, but as we reach the end, we begin to stray a little bit for our own human gain? How often do we keep the choice plunder instead of fully destroying it all, like we are told? How like Saul are we, really?

The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. (16:7, NIV)

I DO NOT WANT MY CHRISTIAN WALK TO BE ONE OF SHOW, BUT OF HEART.

I DO NOT STUDY AND CONTEMPLATE AND WRITE AND CORRESPOND WITH YOU FOR APPEARANCES, BUT WITH PRAYERS TO REACH YOU IN ANY WAY I CAN.

I AM NOT A GREAT SPEAKER, BUT I HAVE A GOD-GIVEN PASSION FOR WRITING AND FOR STUDY, SO THIS IS THE WAY I GET MY PASSION OUT TO YOU.

I LOVE THE LORD AND I PRAY HE SEES IN MY HEART AND IN YOUR HEART A REFLECTION OF HIS LOVE.

WITHOUT HIM, I AM NOTHING.

Part of me hates to close this posting without discussing David and Goliath, but we all know it and I feel it best for each of us to contemplate His love for each of us and the ways we are each living today. Is it reflecting Him all of the time, some of the time, only when other’s are present, or absolutely never? I cannot be satisfied with my human life if I am not fulfilling the most important of my duties to Him, which is to reflect His love for the world.

Make it a great day,

Marilyn

Day 103 reading: 1 Samuel, chapters 18-20 & Psalms, chapters 11 and 59

Category:

1 Samuel, Bible in a Year-Chronological Study, Creation, Eternity, Faith, Forgiveness, Healing, Quiet time, Rules worth LIVING by, Seeing God, Service, Trust

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