We had our Christmas program last night, and it was beautiful with lots of music. Our church is fairly small, but the Lord has greatly blessed us with musical talent.
Pastor Dan preached on how God ordained Jesus to be born in a manger to show the accessibility of His salvation. Shepherds were pretty low on the social landscape back then, but they felt no awkwardness about coming to a manger. It came to my mind what Jesus said about the rich having a hard time entering the kingdom of God. Whether the wise men were at the manger is not an argument that needs to be made here, but if they were, it was probably more "difficult" for them to enter a stable than for the shepherds.
No one is too low to enter God's kingdom, but one may be too high.
Our singles sang a song together:
Joy Has Dawned
Joy has dawned upon the world, promised from creation:
God's salvation now unfurled, hope for every nation.
Not with fanfares from above, not with scenes of glory,
But a humble gift of live: Jesus, born of Mary.
Sounds of wonder fill the sky with the songs of angels,
As the mighty Prince of Life shelters in a stable.
Hands that set each star in place, shaped the earth in darkness,
Cling now to a mother's breast, vuln'rable and helpless.
Shepherds bow before the Lamb, gazing at the glory;
Gifts of men from distant lands prophesy a story.
Gold, a King is born today; Incense, God is with us;
Myrrh, His death will make a way and by His blood He'll win us.
Son of Adam, Son of Heav'n, given as a ransom;
Reconciling God and man--Christ our mighty Champion!
What a Saviour, what a Friend, what a glorious myst'ry:
Once a babe in Bethlehem, now the Lord of hist'ry.
by Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
Showing posts with label Sunday Nuggets. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sunday Nuggets. Show all posts
Monday, December 21, 2009
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Sunday Nuggets 8/2
Just last night I was complaining to Steven about something in our lives that just doesn't seem "fair." The Lord could change it, but He has chosen not to. Most of the time I'm okay with it, but other times it just jumps out of the closet and yells, "Boo!" I guess we all wrestle with this issue in different areas. And sometimes there seems to be no reasonable answer to why God does what He does. We live by faith, not by sight.
This morning Stephanie sang "God Makes no Mistakes":
My life I give to You, O Lord.
Use me, I pray.
May I glorify Your precious name
In all I do and say.
Let me trust You in the valley dark
As well as in the light,
Knowing You will always lead me;
Your will is always right!
I know God makes no mistakes.
He leads in ev’ry path I take
Along the way that’s leading me to Home.
Though at times my heart would break,
There’s a purpose in ev’ry change He makes:
That others would see my life
And know that God makes no mistakes.
And when someday in Heav’n above
I see His dear face,
May I then be counted faithful
As a runner in this race.
But now I’m trusting in the Savior
To show me the way.
In His righteousness He guides me,
As I seek to please Him day by day.
I know God makes no mistakes.
He leads in ev’ry path I take
Along the way that’s leading me to Home.
Though at times my heart would break,
There’s a purpose in ev’ry change He makes:
That others would see my life and know that God...
Our God makes no mistakes.
Kim Moore
Rachel played "I'd Rather Have Jesus" for an offertory--I always think of Dad singing this song. My flesh is so weak! How I desire this to be true of me. So many other things clamor for my affection.
I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold;
I’d rather be His than have riches untold;
I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands;
I’d rather be led by His nail-pierced hand
Refrain:
Than to be the king of a vast domain,
Or be held in sin’s dread sway;
I’d rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today.
I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause;
I’d rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I’d rather have Jesus than worldwide fame;
I’d rather be true to His holy name
He’s fairer than lilies of rarest bloom;
He’s sweeter than honey from out the comb;
He’s all that my hungering spirit needs;
I’d rather have Jesus and let Him lead
Rhea F. Miller, 1922
PS Steven's luggage arrived safe and sound. :o)
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Sunday Nuggets 7/26
Navigating by What Sticks out of the WaterThe Tanana River is like chocolate milk, and navigating one's boat by what sticks up out of the water will surely result in being stuck on a sandbar.
Pastor Dan preached this morning from Judges 14. Samson lived his life according to what seemed good to him, without considering what would please the Lord.
In life, as in boating, it's easier to just go by what is visible. But in both instances we MUST know what's under the surface.
In our lives God is working behind the scenes, and only by knowing Him and seeking to please Him can we avoid the sandbars that come unawares upon those who live by natural sense alone.
We look not to the things which are seen
but to the things which are unseen.
For the things that are seen are transient,
but the things that are not seen are eternal.
2 Corinthians 4:18 ESV
(also God Moves in a Mysterious Way)
Rock of Ages, Let me hide myself in Thee!
Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to Thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress;
Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Saviour, or I die.
Augustus M. Toplady, 1740-1778
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Sunday Nuggets 8/10
First, a children's song that the Lord has used to speak to me regarding waiting for Steven's orders.
God's Clock
I set my life by God's great clock--
His time is always right.
He times the wind, the rain, the snow;
He times the day and night.
Chorus
God's time is right!
There's none so wise as He.
His hand upholds the whole wide world--
He knows what's best for me.
I set my life by God's great clock,
He's never fast or slow.
He plans a perfect day for those
Who seek His will to know.
And in light of the uncertainty of our lives right now, this song was a blessing this morning. It says over and over "I know not. . . but I know Whom I have believed." I thought about writing another verse that starts with "I know not when Steven's orders may come. . ." but I think you get the picture. I'm including verses one and four. (The chorus is a direct quote from 2 Timothy 1:12 KJV.)
I Know Whom I Have Believed
I know not why God's wondrous grace
To me He hath made known,
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own.
Refrain
But I know Whom I have believed,
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I've committed
Unto Him against that day.
I know not what of good or ill
May be in reserved for me--
Of weary ways or golden days
Before His face I see.
But I know Whom I have believed. . .
PS No word on orders yet, although we've been told that it will probably be soon.
God's Clock
I set my life by God's great clock--
His time is always right.
He times the wind, the rain, the snow;
He times the day and night.
Chorus
God's time is right!
There's none so wise as He.
His hand upholds the whole wide world--
He knows what's best for me.
I set my life by God's great clock,
He's never fast or slow.
He plans a perfect day for those
Who seek His will to know.
And in light of the uncertainty of our lives right now, this song was a blessing this morning. It says over and over "I know not. . . but I know Whom I have believed." I thought about writing another verse that starts with "I know not when Steven's orders may come. . ." but I think you get the picture. I'm including verses one and four. (The chorus is a direct quote from 2 Timothy 1:12 KJV.)
I Know Whom I Have Believed
I know not why God's wondrous grace
To me He hath made known,
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own.
Refrain
But I know Whom I have believed,
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I've committed
Unto Him against that day.
I know not what of good or ill
May be in reserved for me--
Of weary ways or golden days
Before His face I see.
But I know Whom I have believed. . .
PS No word on orders yet, although we've been told that it will probably be soon.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Sunday Nuggets 7/27
What a Friend We Have in Jesus
What a Friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Ev'rything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Ev'rything to God in prayer!
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere:
We should never be discouraged:
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful,
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our ev'ry weakness:
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Are we weak and heavy-laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Saviour, still our refuge--
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer;
In His arms He'll take and shield thee,
Thou wilt find a solace there.
Joseph Scriven, 1819-1886
Dr. D mentioned in the review of his trip to Cameroon that camels are obstreperous.
obstreperous adj. noisy, boisterous, or unruly, especially in resisting or opposing.
Anyway, I liked that word.
What a Friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Ev'rything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Ev'rything to God in prayer!
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere:
We should never be discouraged:
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful,
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our ev'ry weakness:
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Are we weak and heavy-laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Saviour, still our refuge--
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer;
In His arms He'll take and shield thee,
Thou wilt find a solace there.
Joseph Scriven, 1819-1886
Dr. D mentioned in the review of his trip to Cameroon that camels are obstreperous.
obstreperous adj. noisy, boisterous, or unruly, especially in resisting or opposing.
Anyway, I liked that word.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Sunday Nuggets 6/29
What a great Lord's Day! In Sunday School Daniel T taught on Christian warfare on a global level: evangelism. There is no doubt that this topic is dear to his heart. We must look beyond ourselves and our personal spiritual struggles to the great war that is the advancing of God's kingdom. One of the things he mentioned that holds us back is our attachment to "stuff."
Pastor M is out of town, so Pastor T preached. He spoke from Luke twelve about greed and covetousness. The man in the parable had "many goods." His trouble was that his trust was in those "things" and not in God. Once again this emphasis on material possessions, and the proper view of them.
This evening Pastor V spoke from Matthew twelve on Christ being "greater than" other things. Greater than the shadows and types meant to point to Him (v 6), greater than the prophets (v 41), and greater than the wisest king (v 42). At salvation we acknowledge Jesus' greatness, and throughout our Christian lives we should be glorying in this more and more as we grow to know Him better.
The music was so wonderful today. I'll put just a few verses here.
Jesus, Lover of My Soul (v 2)
Other refuge have I none;
Hangs my helpless soul on Thee;
Leave, ah! leave me not alone,
Still support and comfort me.
All my trust on Thee is stayed,
All my help from Thee I bring;
Cover my defenseless head
With the shadow of Thy wing.
Charles Wesley, 1707-1788
Jesus Calls Us! O'er the Tumult
Jesus calls us oe'r the tumult
Of our life's wild, restless sea,
Day by day His sweet voice soundeth,
Saying, "Christian, follow Me."
Jesus calls us from the worship
Of the vain world's golden store,
From each idol that would keep us,
Saying, "Christan, love Me more."
In our joys and in our sorrows,
Days of toil and hours of ease,
Still He calls in cares and pleasures,
"Christian, love Me more than these."
Jesus calls us: by Thy mercies,
Savior, may we hear Thy call,
Give our hearts to Thine obedience,
Serve and love Thee best of all.
Cecil F. Alexander, 1818-1895
Pastor M is out of town, so Pastor T preached. He spoke from Luke twelve about greed and covetousness. The man in the parable had "many goods." His trouble was that his trust was in those "things" and not in God. Once again this emphasis on material possessions, and the proper view of them.
This evening Pastor V spoke from Matthew twelve on Christ being "greater than" other things. Greater than the shadows and types meant to point to Him (v 6), greater than the prophets (v 41), and greater than the wisest king (v 42). At salvation we acknowledge Jesus' greatness, and throughout our Christian lives we should be glorying in this more and more as we grow to know Him better.
The music was so wonderful today. I'll put just a few verses here.
Jesus, Lover of My Soul (v 2)
Other refuge have I none;
Hangs my helpless soul on Thee;
Leave, ah! leave me not alone,
Still support and comfort me.
All my trust on Thee is stayed,
All my help from Thee I bring;
Cover my defenseless head
With the shadow of Thy wing.
Charles Wesley, 1707-1788
Jesus Calls Us! O'er the Tumult
Jesus calls us oe'r the tumult
Of our life's wild, restless sea,
Day by day His sweet voice soundeth,
Saying, "Christian, follow Me."
Jesus calls us from the worship
Of the vain world's golden store,
From each idol that would keep us,
Saying, "Christan, love Me more."
In our joys and in our sorrows,
Days of toil and hours of ease,
Still He calls in cares and pleasures,
"Christian, love Me more than these."
Jesus calls us: by Thy mercies,
Savior, may we hear Thy call,
Give our hearts to Thine obedience,
Serve and love Thee best of all.
Cecil F. Alexander, 1818-1895
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Sunday Nuggets 4-13
Sometimes I'm tempted to be discontented. It's good to be reminded that my circumstances are ordained by God. He chose this for me. Would I really want it any other way? Would I really want to choose for myself?
Thy Way, Not Mine, O Lord
Thy way, not mine, O Lord,
However dark it be;
Lead me by Thine own hand;
Choose out the path for me.
Smooth let it be or rough,
It will be still the best;
Winding or straight, it leads
Right onward to Thy rest.
I dare not choose my lot;
I would not if I might;
Choose Thou for me, my God,
So I shall walk aright.
Take Thou my cup,
And it with joy or sorrow fill,
As best to Thee may seem
Choose Thou my good and ill.
Choose Thou for me my friends,
My sickness or my health;
Choose Thou my cares for me,
My poverty or wealth.
No mine, not mine the choice
In things both great and small;
Be Thou my guide, my strength,
My wisdom, and my all.
Horatius Bonar, 1808-1889
The refrain of this just rings in my mind. What a prayer to pray daily, hourly when facing temptation.
Oh, to Be Like Thee
Oh, to be like Thee! blessed Redeemer,
This is my constant longing and prayer.
Gladly I'll forfeit all of earth's treasures,
Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear.
Refrain:
Oh, to be like Thee!
Oh, to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art!
Come in They sweetness, come in Thy fullness;
Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart.
Thomas O. Chisholm, 1866-1960
Thy Way, Not Mine, O Lord
Thy way, not mine, O Lord,
However dark it be;
Lead me by Thine own hand;
Choose out the path for me.
Smooth let it be or rough,
It will be still the best;
Winding or straight, it leads
Right onward to Thy rest.
I dare not choose my lot;
I would not if I might;
Choose Thou for me, my God,
So I shall walk aright.
Take Thou my cup,
And it with joy or sorrow fill,
As best to Thee may seem
Choose Thou my good and ill.
Choose Thou for me my friends,
My sickness or my health;
Choose Thou my cares for me,
My poverty or wealth.
No mine, not mine the choice
In things both great and small;
Be Thou my guide, my strength,
My wisdom, and my all.
Horatius Bonar, 1808-1889
The refrain of this just rings in my mind. What a prayer to pray daily, hourly when facing temptation.
Oh, to Be Like Thee
Oh, to be like Thee! blessed Redeemer,
This is my constant longing and prayer.
Gladly I'll forfeit all of earth's treasures,
Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear.
Refrain:
Oh, to be like Thee!
Oh, to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art!
Come in They sweetness, come in Thy fullness;
Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart.
Thomas O. Chisholm, 1866-1960
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Sunday Nuggets 2/24
I've chosen only one or two verses from each poem since there are quite a few.
Trust and Obey
But we never can prove
The delights of His love,
Until all on the altar we lay;
For the favor He shows,
And the joy He bestows,
Are for those who will trust and obey.
Refrain:
Trust and obey!
For there's no other way To be happy in Jesus,
But to trust and obey.
John H. Sammis, 1846-1919
God Leads Us Along
Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright,
God leads His dear children along;
Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night,
God leads His dear children along.
Refrain:
Some thro' the waters, Some thro' the flood,
Some thro' the fire, but all thro' the blood;
Some thro' great sorrow, but God gives a song,
In the night season and all the day long.
G. A. Young, 19th C.
This is a bittersweet song. I can't help but think of certain people whom God has certainly led through the flood, the fire, the valley and the dark night. But I know they all would testify that the Lord was there with them during these times. I know I can say that the darkest, most difficult times of my life were also times that the Lord's presence was very real to me.
Great God of Wonders
Great God of wonders! all Thy ways
Are matchless, God-like, and divine;
But the bright glories of Thy grace
Above thine other wonders shine,
Above thine other wonders shine.
Refrain:
Who is a pard'ning God like Thee?
Or who has grace so rich and free?
Or who has grace so rich and free?
Such deep transgressions to forgive!
Such guilty sinners thus to spare!
This is Thy grand prerogative,
And in this honor none shall share;
And in this honor none shall share.
Samuel Davies, 1723-1761
This evening's message was from Isaiah 12. It is a psalm of praise. It is joyful, exuberantly thanking God for what He has done. Pastor challenged us to purposely limit even legitimate pleasures so that we get our ultimate joy and thrill from the Lord. I'll just include the chorus of our closing song since I've put so much here today (besides it is the part of the song that really resonates and expresses my desire).
All That Thrills My Soul Is Jesus
Refrain:
All that thrills my soul is Jesus;
He is more than life to me;
And the fairest of ten thousand
In my blessed Lord I see.
Thoro Harris, 1874-1956
If this were true in my life, imagine the joy, the unshakable peace that would result!
At lunchtime we were examining the fistful of "weeds" that Elizabeth brought to me yesterday. Mom says they are a member of the orchid family.
The light pink orchid-shaped part is a quarter of an inch high. Marvelous!
Trust and Obey
But we never can prove
The delights of His love,
Until all on the altar we lay;
For the favor He shows,
And the joy He bestows,
Are for those who will trust and obey.
Refrain:
Trust and obey!
For there's no other way To be happy in Jesus,
But to trust and obey.
John H. Sammis, 1846-1919
God Leads Us Along
Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright,
God leads His dear children along;
Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night,
God leads His dear children along.
Refrain:
Some thro' the waters, Some thro' the flood,
Some thro' the fire, but all thro' the blood;
Some thro' great sorrow, but God gives a song,
In the night season and all the day long.
G. A. Young, 19th C.
This is a bittersweet song. I can't help but think of certain people whom God has certainly led through the flood, the fire, the valley and the dark night. But I know they all would testify that the Lord was there with them during these times. I know I can say that the darkest, most difficult times of my life were also times that the Lord's presence was very real to me.
Great God of Wonders
Great God of wonders! all Thy ways
Are matchless, God-like, and divine;
But the bright glories of Thy grace
Above thine other wonders shine,
Above thine other wonders shine.
Refrain:
Who is a pard'ning God like Thee?
Or who has grace so rich and free?
Or who has grace so rich and free?
Such deep transgressions to forgive!
Such guilty sinners thus to spare!
This is Thy grand prerogative,
And in this honor none shall share;
And in this honor none shall share.
Samuel Davies, 1723-1761
This evening's message was from Isaiah 12. It is a psalm of praise. It is joyful, exuberantly thanking God for what He has done. Pastor challenged us to purposely limit even legitimate pleasures so that we get our ultimate joy and thrill from the Lord. I'll just include the chorus of our closing song since I've put so much here today (besides it is the part of the song that really resonates and expresses my desire).
All That Thrills My Soul Is Jesus
Refrain:
All that thrills my soul is Jesus;
He is more than life to me;
And the fairest of ten thousand
In my blessed Lord I see.
Thoro Harris, 1874-1956
If this were true in my life, imagine the joy, the unshakable peace that would result!
At lunchtime we were examining the fistful of "weeds" that Elizabeth brought to me yesterday. Mom says they are a member of the orchid family.
The light pink orchid-shaped part is a quarter of an inch high. Marvelous!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Sunday Nuggets 1/20
Elizabeth and I stayed home sick this morning. We both have coughs. Hers sounds so dreadful, but she acts fine. I've been feeling pretty cruddy, with frequent headaches. But Steven stayed with the girlie this evening so I could go to church. I tried not to cough on anyone. We sang this wonderful hymn.
O Thou in Whose Presence
O Thou in whose presence my soul takes delight,
On whom in affliction I call,
My comfort by day and my song in the night,
My hope, my salvation, my all!
Where dost Thou, dear Shepherd, resort with Thy sheep,
To feed them in pastures of love?
Say, why in the valley of death should I weep,
Or alone in this wilderness rove?
O why should I wander, an alien from Thee,
Or cry in the desert for bread?
Thy foes will rejoice when my sorrows they see,
And smile at the tears I have shed.
He looks! and ten thousands of angels rejoice,
And myriads wait for His word;
He speaks! and eternity, filled with His voice,
Re-echoes the praise of the Lord.
Dear Shepherd! I hear, and will follow Thy call;
I know the sweet sound of Thy voice;
Restore and defend me, for Thou art my all,
And in Thee I will ever rejoice.
Joseph Swain, 1762-1796
A few quotes from Jim Elliot in Shadow of the Almighty:
I lack the fervency, vitality, life in prayer which I long for. I know that many consider it fanaticism when they hear anything which does not conform to the conventional, sleep-inducing eulogies so often rising from Laodicean lips; but I know too that these same people can acquiescently tolerate sin in their lives and in the church without so much as tilting one hair of their eyebrows. Cold prayers, like cold suitors, are seldom effective in their aims.
God, I pray Thee, light these idle sticks of my life and may I burn up for Thee. Consume my life, my God, for it is Thine. I seek not a long life but a full one, like you, Lord Jesus.
O God, save me from a life of barrenness, following a formal pattern of ethics, and give instead that vital contact of soul with Thy divine life that fruit may be produced, and Life--abundant living--may be known again as the final proof for Christ's message and work.
O Thou in Whose Presence
O Thou in whose presence my soul takes delight,
On whom in affliction I call,
My comfort by day and my song in the night,
My hope, my salvation, my all!
Where dost Thou, dear Shepherd, resort with Thy sheep,
To feed them in pastures of love?
Say, why in the valley of death should I weep,
Or alone in this wilderness rove?
O why should I wander, an alien from Thee,
Or cry in the desert for bread?
Thy foes will rejoice when my sorrows they see,
And smile at the tears I have shed.
He looks! and ten thousands of angels rejoice,
And myriads wait for His word;
He speaks! and eternity, filled with His voice,
Re-echoes the praise of the Lord.
Dear Shepherd! I hear, and will follow Thy call;
I know the sweet sound of Thy voice;
Restore and defend me, for Thou art my all,
And in Thee I will ever rejoice.
Joseph Swain, 1762-1796
A few quotes from Jim Elliot in Shadow of the Almighty:
I lack the fervency, vitality, life in prayer which I long for. I know that many consider it fanaticism when they hear anything which does not conform to the conventional, sleep-inducing eulogies so often rising from Laodicean lips; but I know too that these same people can acquiescently tolerate sin in their lives and in the church without so much as tilting one hair of their eyebrows. Cold prayers, like cold suitors, are seldom effective in their aims.
God, I pray Thee, light these idle sticks of my life and may I burn up for Thee. Consume my life, my God, for it is Thine. I seek not a long life but a full one, like you, Lord Jesus.
O God, save me from a life of barrenness, following a formal pattern of ethics, and give instead that vital contact of soul with Thy divine life that fruit may be produced, and Life--abundant living--may be known again as the final proof for Christ's message and work.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Sunday Nuggets 12/30
A couple verses from the hymn Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart:
Spirit of God, descend upon my heart;
Wean it from earth, through all its pulses move;
Stoop to my weakness, mighty as Thou art,
And make me love Thee as I ought to love.
I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies,
No sudden rending of the veil of clay,
No angel visitant, no opening skies;
But take the dimness of my soul away.
Teach me to feel that Thou art always nigh;
Teach me the struggles of the soul to bear,
To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh;
Teach me the patience of unanswered prayer.
For Christmas I asked for and received "Shadow of the Almighty: the Life and Testament of Jim Elliot." I read this book in high school, I believe, maybe in college. It impacted me greatly. This man was sold out to God. Here was a prayer of his when he was twenty: "Lord, make my way prosperous, not that I achieve high station, but that my life may be an exhibit to the value of knowing God." May it be so.
This week I will have another birthday, Lord willing. Last year I was half of "three score and ten." That was a sobering thought. My life may be half over. And now another year (almost) has slipped by. What have I accomplished for the Lord? for the benefit of my family? I so desire that this be a year of growth in grace and in the knowlege of the Lord.
Spirit of God, descend upon my heart;
Wean it from earth, through all its pulses move;
Stoop to my weakness, mighty as Thou art,
And make me love Thee as I ought to love.
I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies,
No sudden rending of the veil of clay,
No angel visitant, no opening skies;
But take the dimness of my soul away.
Teach me to feel that Thou art always nigh;
Teach me the struggles of the soul to bear,
To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh;
Teach me the patience of unanswered prayer.
For Christmas I asked for and received "Shadow of the Almighty: the Life and Testament of Jim Elliot." I read this book in high school, I believe, maybe in college. It impacted me greatly. This man was sold out to God. Here was a prayer of his when he was twenty: "Lord, make my way prosperous, not that I achieve high station, but that my life may be an exhibit to the value of knowing God." May it be so.
This week I will have another birthday, Lord willing. Last year I was half of "three score and ten." That was a sobering thought. My life may be half over. And now another year (almost) has slipped by. What have I accomplished for the Lord? for the benefit of my family? I so desire that this be a year of growth in grace and in the knowlege of the Lord.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Sunday Nuggets and Other Stuff
This morning's Bible reading took me to Psalm 27. Verses four through six are my "life verses:"
4 One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: 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 meditate in His temple.
5 For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock.
6 And now my head will be lifted up above my enemies around me, And I will offer in His tent sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the LORD.
The Lord has certainly hidden me in His secret place during my time of trouble. May He help me now to sacrifice with shouts of joy and sing praises to Him. (Oh, and look at this post from one year ago.)
The latest update from Steve (my brother):
A quick telling of our time with Steven at Fort Benning: (stop chortling about my ability to tell it "quick")
(added after writing: This is not quick. Also, I didn't proofread it due to its length, so be forewarned.)
Saturday morning we went to a birthday party at the park downtown. It was lots of fun, and afterward the kids and I walked all around enjoying the beauty of the falls. It was hot! We finally returned home after noon, and about 1:30 Steven called to say that his welcome home ceremony was that evening at 6:00 (he had been trying to call all morning). We packed up and were out the door in an hour. The trip was uneventful until we got to Columbus.
I turned the wrong way on Victory Drive, driving away from the fort. . . There were signs for Fort Benning, though, it's not just me. We got turned around, got directions to the address Steven had given me and went to the barracks. (These were really apartments where active duty single soldiers stay, but the unit that usually lives at Kelley Hill is in Iraq.) By the time we got there, it was 8:00. We found a helpful soldier who helped us look for Steven, but to no avail. Finally I asked him if it was conceivable that Steven was still at the welcome home ceremony. Yes. So he gave me directions to Freedom Hall, but said that if I saw buses coming back this way, it was Steven's group and to turn right around and come back.
So we drove probably 20 minutes over to Freedom Hall (it had become dark now). Just as we were turning into the driveway, Samuel shouted, "There are the buses, Mommy!" Sure enough, the buses were just headed down the road back to Kelley Hill. Crying and groaning inwardly, I turned around and followed the buses back to the barracks. As I was pulling into the driveway, my cell phone rang.
Steven: Where are you?
Carrie: (happily) Just pulling into the driveway!
S: Which one?
C: The barracks.
S: I'm at Freedom Hall.
C: Waaah!
etc.
So within a few minutes, during which time both kids managed to get bitten by fire ants, we were reunited. Since we were planning to stay in a hotel, we left everything in the van and headed up to Steven's room to plan our next move. The kids and I were hungry, having waited to eat supper. Steven got us some "boxed lunches," but by this time the kids were so tired and wound up that they weren't much for eating. Besides, canned barbecue beef and cold canned lasagna (required a microwave safe container) isn't real tempting anytime! So dinner consisted mainly of Pringles and red juice poured down one's front. About this time Steven informed me that we could stay with him, and asked for the car keys so he could bring up our stuff.
Okay, you know that feeling you get when you've had a long day, perhaps filled with things like not being able to take a shower after wandering around the park in near-100 degree heat, frantic packing, five hours of driving, wrong turns, going to the wrong place, your kids getting bitten by fire ants, and all of this taking place in high heat and humidity? Okay, now try to conjure up this feeling, no, don't, but try to imagine me feeling this way. Then imagine discovering that you have locked your only set of keys in the van.
At 10:15 at night.
On a military post.
After being away from your husband for fifteen months. (You know, "Oh, Sweetie, it's so good to see you! And as a welcome-back-to-America-and-our-family present I'll lock the keys in the car!")
There is no such thing as a phone book in the barracks. Anywhere. So Steven found someone to drive up to the (wherever) to find phone numbers for a locksmith. They return with the numbers. Steven calls. Half an hour later they show up and open the van door (breaking it in the process, which we didn't discover until the next day). Meanwhile, I have put the kids to bed on the twin bed in the room.
Steven returns with our stuff. Samuel sleeps in the closet on a sleeping bag. Elizabeth sleeps on the couch/loveseat. Steven and I get the twin bed. Let's just say I have rarely been so glad to be in my own bed with my own pillows!
The rest of our time went more smoothly than this, thankfully. We headed for home around supper time on Tuesday.
Steven is getting settled back in, chipping away at his long list of (self-imposed) things to do. He is so motivated, working hard even before he "goes back to work." He has next week off, then back to work. We're making the happy adjustment to being together as a family.
Now that Steven is home, my blog updates will probably be fewer and farther between. Also with homeschooling, my focus needs to be there. Thank you for your faithful prayers during our time of separation.
Love,
4 One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: 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 meditate in His temple.
5 For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock.
6 And now my head will be lifted up above my enemies around me, And I will offer in His tent sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the LORD.
The Lord has certainly hidden me in His secret place during my time of trouble. May He help me now to sacrifice with shouts of joy and sing praises to Him. (Oh, and look at this post from one year ago.)
The latest update from Steve (my brother):
Hay everyone,
Thanks for your prayers when I was sick. I am back to 100%. I was only on my back for 24 hours but my temperature got up to 102.5 in that time. Then it just went away!
A lot has happened since then. If you haven't heard, I got a promotion of sorts. I was transferred to another team to become their senior 18C. My rank stays the same, and so does the pay but I am now a senior member of an SF ODA! I was on a team with 3 of us "Charlies" and now there will be only me! It is a little scary but as always, with your prayer and the LORD's support and comfort, I should do well. I'm sure there was a time in Joseph's life when he was promoted to the different positions he held, that he had a little apprehension too (please don't think I'm comparing myself to Joseph). Please pray for me as I face this new challenge.
We have been very busy down with our soldiers with different projects to improve their living standards down there. Many of the Phil soldiers also know other trades that allow us to keep all the projects in house. The roof on both barracks needs attention, they need a better kitchen area, the barracks both need rewiring (it looks like they cut up extension cords and twisted the wires together to connect them), they need a good area to dry their laundry (50 guys do their laundry by hand), and they also need a more permanent multi purpose structure (its a canvas tent right now). Between missions, the guys are chipping away at these projects.
Well, 45 more days till I leave for the States and I am aching for a Pizza Hut pizza! I can't wait to be back to my life at home. I miss church and my wife so much it hurts! Thanks so much for all your prayers. Please keep them coming!
Steve
A quick telling of our time with Steven at Fort Benning: (stop chortling about my ability to tell it "quick")
(added after writing: This is not quick. Also, I didn't proofread it due to its length, so be forewarned.)
Saturday morning we went to a birthday party at the park downtown. It was lots of fun, and afterward the kids and I walked all around enjoying the beauty of the falls. It was hot! We finally returned home after noon, and about 1:30 Steven called to say that his welcome home ceremony was that evening at 6:00 (he had been trying to call all morning). We packed up and were out the door in an hour. The trip was uneventful until we got to Columbus.
I turned the wrong way on Victory Drive, driving away from the fort. . . There were signs for Fort Benning, though, it's not just me. We got turned around, got directions to the address Steven had given me and went to the barracks. (These were really apartments where active duty single soldiers stay, but the unit that usually lives at Kelley Hill is in Iraq.) By the time we got there, it was 8:00. We found a helpful soldier who helped us look for Steven, but to no avail. Finally I asked him if it was conceivable that Steven was still at the welcome home ceremony. Yes. So he gave me directions to Freedom Hall, but said that if I saw buses coming back this way, it was Steven's group and to turn right around and come back.
So we drove probably 20 minutes over to Freedom Hall (it had become dark now). Just as we were turning into the driveway, Samuel shouted, "There are the buses, Mommy!" Sure enough, the buses were just headed down the road back to Kelley Hill. Crying and groaning inwardly, I turned around and followed the buses back to the barracks. As I was pulling into the driveway, my cell phone rang.
Steven: Where are you?
Carrie: (happily) Just pulling into the driveway!
S: Which one?
C: The barracks.
S: I'm at Freedom Hall.
C: Waaah!
etc.
So within a few minutes, during which time both kids managed to get bitten by fire ants, we were reunited. Since we were planning to stay in a hotel, we left everything in the van and headed up to Steven's room to plan our next move. The kids and I were hungry, having waited to eat supper. Steven got us some "boxed lunches," but by this time the kids were so tired and wound up that they weren't much for eating. Besides, canned barbecue beef and cold canned lasagna (required a microwave safe container) isn't real tempting anytime! So dinner consisted mainly of Pringles and red juice poured down one's front. About this time Steven informed me that we could stay with him, and asked for the car keys so he could bring up our stuff.
Okay, you know that feeling you get when you've had a long day, perhaps filled with things like not being able to take a shower after wandering around the park in near-100 degree heat, frantic packing, five hours of driving, wrong turns, going to the wrong place, your kids getting bitten by fire ants, and all of this taking place in high heat and humidity? Okay, now try to conjure up this feeling, no, don't, but try to imagine me feeling this way. Then imagine discovering that you have locked your only set of keys in the van.
At 10:15 at night.
On a military post.
After being away from your husband for fifteen months. (You know, "Oh, Sweetie, it's so good to see you! And as a welcome-back-to-America-and-our-family present I'll lock the keys in the car!")
There is no such thing as a phone book in the barracks. Anywhere. So Steven found someone to drive up to the (wherever) to find phone numbers for a locksmith. They return with the numbers. Steven calls. Half an hour later they show up and open the van door (breaking it in the process, which we didn't discover until the next day). Meanwhile, I have put the kids to bed on the twin bed in the room.
Steven returns with our stuff. Samuel sleeps in the closet on a sleeping bag. Elizabeth sleeps on the couch/loveseat. Steven and I get the twin bed. Let's just say I have rarely been so glad to be in my own bed with my own pillows!
The rest of our time went more smoothly than this, thankfully. We headed for home around supper time on Tuesday.
Steven is getting settled back in, chipping away at his long list of (self-imposed) things to do. He is so motivated, working hard even before he "goes back to work." He has next week off, then back to work. We're making the happy adjustment to being together as a family.
Now that Steven is home, my blog updates will probably be fewer and farther between. Also with homeschooling, my focus needs to be there. Thank you for your faithful prayers during our time of separation.
Love,
Monday, August 13, 2007
Sunday Nuggets 8/12
Such wonderful music today. I'll limit myself to only three verses of
How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds
How sweet the name of Jesus sounds
In a believer's ear!
It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds,
And drives away his fear.
Jesus! my Shepherd, Saviour, Friend,
My Prophet, Priest, and King,
My Lord, my Life, my Way, my End,
Accept the praise I bring.
Weak is the effort of my heart,
And cold my warmest thought;
But when I see Thee as Thou art,
I'll praise Thee as I ought.
John Newton, 1725-1807
And what seems to me like The Parent's Hymn:
Lord, Speak to Me
Lord, speak to me, that I may speak
In living echoes of Thy tone;
As Thou has sought, so let me seek
Thy erring children lost and lone.
O lead me, Lord, that I may lead
The wand'ring and wav'ring feet;
O feed me, Lord, that I may feed
Thy hung'ring ones with manna sweet.
O teach me, Lord, that I may teach
The precious things Thou dost impart;
And wing my words, that they may reach
The hidden depths of many a heart.
O fill me with Thy fullness, Lord,
Until my very heart o'erflow
In kindling thought and glowing word,
Thy love to tell, Thy praise to show.
O use me, Lord, use even me,
Just as Thou wilt, and when, and where,
Until Thy blessed face I see,
Thy rest, Thy joy, Thy glory share.
Frances R. Havergal, 1836-1879
How can a proper job of parenting be done apart from all these mercies from God? I'll tell you it will never happen in my own strength!
Tonight we had a family session. Pastor exhorted us to feed on God's Word. Daily. Eagerly, seeking God Himself in the words of Scripture. My heart longs for this! He urged us to get down on our knees with our Bibles, to pray for God to illuminate His words to us. When we delight in something, we end up thinking about it (meditating) a lot. I must delight in God's Word and I will begin to meditate on it.
I am reading A Chance to Die, Elisabeth Elliot's biography of Amy Carmichael. This woman was sold out to God! She was a trifle headstrong, no, not a trifle. . . but she was wholly God's. Her mind was saturated with Scripture, her speech and writing is full of scriptural language. Her poetry cuts so straight. Here is one of her poems from her book Toward Jerusalem:
One Thing Have I Desired
One thing have I desired, my God, of Thee,
That will I seek, Thine house be home to me.
I would not breathe an alien, other air,
I would be with Thee, O Thou fairest Fair.
For I would see the beauty of my Lord,
And hear Him speak, who is my heart's Adored.
O Love of loves, and can such wonder dwell
In Thy great Name of names, Immanuel?
Thou with Thy child, Thy child at home with Thee,
O Love of loves, I love, I worship Thee.
I heartily recommend both the biography (I've read it before) and her books of poetry. Oh, and anything else by Elisabeth Elliot, especially Shadow of the Almighty, which is her first husband's story, as told from his journals. This book was very influential in my life as a teenager.
How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds
How sweet the name of Jesus sounds
In a believer's ear!
It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds,
And drives away his fear.
Jesus! my Shepherd, Saviour, Friend,
My Prophet, Priest, and King,
My Lord, my Life, my Way, my End,
Accept the praise I bring.
Weak is the effort of my heart,
And cold my warmest thought;
But when I see Thee as Thou art,
I'll praise Thee as I ought.
John Newton, 1725-1807
And what seems to me like The Parent's Hymn:
Lord, Speak to Me
Lord, speak to me, that I may speak
In living echoes of Thy tone;
As Thou has sought, so let me seek
Thy erring children lost and lone.
O lead me, Lord, that I may lead
The wand'ring and wav'ring feet;
O feed me, Lord, that I may feed
Thy hung'ring ones with manna sweet.
O teach me, Lord, that I may teach
The precious things Thou dost impart;
And wing my words, that they may reach
The hidden depths of many a heart.
O fill me with Thy fullness, Lord,
Until my very heart o'erflow
In kindling thought and glowing word,
Thy love to tell, Thy praise to show.
O use me, Lord, use even me,
Just as Thou wilt, and when, and where,
Until Thy blessed face I see,
Thy rest, Thy joy, Thy glory share.
Frances R. Havergal, 1836-1879
How can a proper job of parenting be done apart from all these mercies from God? I'll tell you it will never happen in my own strength!
Tonight we had a family session. Pastor exhorted us to feed on God's Word. Daily. Eagerly, seeking God Himself in the words of Scripture. My heart longs for this! He urged us to get down on our knees with our Bibles, to pray for God to illuminate His words to us. When we delight in something, we end up thinking about it (meditating) a lot. I must delight in God's Word and I will begin to meditate on it.
I am reading A Chance to Die, Elisabeth Elliot's biography of Amy Carmichael. This woman was sold out to God! She was a trifle headstrong, no, not a trifle. . . but she was wholly God's. Her mind was saturated with Scripture, her speech and writing is full of scriptural language. Her poetry cuts so straight. Here is one of her poems from her book Toward Jerusalem:
One Thing Have I Desired
One thing have I desired, my God, of Thee,
That will I seek, Thine house be home to me.
I would not breathe an alien, other air,
I would be with Thee, O Thou fairest Fair.
For I would see the beauty of my Lord,
And hear Him speak, who is my heart's Adored.
O Love of loves, and can such wonder dwell
In Thy great Name of names, Immanuel?
Thou with Thy child, Thy child at home with Thee,
O Love of loves, I love, I worship Thee.
I heartily recommend both the biography (I've read it before) and her books of poetry. Oh, and anything else by Elisabeth Elliot, especially Shadow of the Almighty, which is her first husband's story, as told from his journals. This book was very influential in my life as a teenager.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Sunday Nuggets 6/24
Well, it's 11:00 and I just got the kids to bed after a lovely evening with Marlin and Helen and Helen's sister and kids and Helen, a missionary to Zambia, and of course, Marly and Rachel. But I see I have been rather negligent lately with my Sunday Nuggets. . .
Pastor preached his second sermon about the parable of the four soils today.
Last week Pastor covered the seed that fell on the road: a person who does not understand, and Satan snatches the seed away.
The seed that fell on rocky places represents a person who receives the word with joy--an emotional response, but not whole-hearted and will not withstand persecution.
The seed that fell among thorns represents a person who allows things to distract him from the Word of God and the response it demands:
> "worries of the world" or "anxieties of the age": other things that need our attention
> "deceitfulness of wealth": this person has plenty and feels that he doesn't need God
> "pleasures of life" (listed in Luke 8:14, a parallel account): entertainments, seemingly harmless, hobbies, etc. Anything diverting that takes my attention away from the Word.
Then the good soil. This person is truly converted, unlike any of the others. He has fruit, or the works that accompany true salvation.
I have spent time thinking about this parable in conjunction with my Released Time ministry. It has been an encouragement for me to sow the seed (give out the truth of God's word) and leave the results with God.
This evening was a wonderful program by our teenagers. They did a play showing the conversion of John Newton (author of Amazing Grace). What a great job they did! I noticed that Samuel's hero Chip, as the elder Mr. Newton, was holding his quill pen with his left hand. Samuel is left handed, and we were just discussing how I didn't know anyone in our family that is, but either Jessica or Jillian is, and I wasn't sure who else was. As we were talking to Chip afterward Ben W piped up that he is too! So Samuel is in good company. :o)
They sang several songs within the program, all written by John Newton. The music was beautiful, and the teens did such a lovely job. Here is my favorite:
The Mercy Seat
Approach, my soul, the mercy seat,
Where Jesus answers prayer.
There humbly fall before His feet,
For none can perish there.
Thy promise is my only plea;
With this I venture nigh;
Thou callest burdened souls to Thee;
And such, O Lord, am I.
Bowed down beneath a load of sin,
By Satan sorely pressed,
By war without and fears within,
I come to Thee for rest.
Be Thou my Shield and Hiding Place,
That, sheltered near Thy side,
I may my fierce accuser face,
And tell him Thou hast died.
O wondrous love! to bleed and die,
To bear the Cross and shame,
That guilty sinners such as I,
Might plead Thy gracious Name!
Approach, my soul, the mercy seat,
Where Jesus answers prayer,
There humbly fall before His feet,
For none can perish there.
by John Newton, 1725-1807
Pastor preached his second sermon about the parable of the four soils today.
Matthew 13:3 And He spoke many things to them in parables, saying, "Behold, the sower went out to sow; 4 and as he sowed, some seeds fell beside the road, and the birds came and ate them up."
5 "Others fell on the rocky places, where they did not have much soil; and immediately they sprang up, because they had no depth of soil. 6 But when the sun had risen, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away."
7 "Others fell among the thorns, and the thorns came up and choked them out."
8 "And others fell on the good soil and yielded a crop, some a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty.
Later Jesus explained to His disciples:
18 "Hear then the parable of the sower. 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is the one on whom seed was sown beside the road."
20 "The one on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, this is the man who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; 21 yet he has no firm root in himself, but is only temporary, and when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he falls away."
22 "And the one on whom seed was sown among the thorns, this is the man who hears the word, and the worry of the world and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful."
23 "And the one on whom seed was sown on the good soil, this is the man who hears the word and understands it; who indeed bears fruit and brings forth, some a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty."
Last week Pastor covered the seed that fell on the road: a person who does not understand, and Satan snatches the seed away.
The seed that fell on rocky places represents a person who receives the word with joy--an emotional response, but not whole-hearted and will not withstand persecution.
The seed that fell among thorns represents a person who allows things to distract him from the Word of God and the response it demands:
> "worries of the world" or "anxieties of the age": other things that need our attention
> "deceitfulness of wealth": this person has plenty and feels that he doesn't need God
> "pleasures of life" (listed in Luke 8:14, a parallel account): entertainments, seemingly harmless, hobbies, etc. Anything diverting that takes my attention away from the Word.
Then the good soil. This person is truly converted, unlike any of the others. He has fruit, or the works that accompany true salvation.
I have spent time thinking about this parable in conjunction with my Released Time ministry. It has been an encouragement for me to sow the seed (give out the truth of God's word) and leave the results with God.
This evening was a wonderful program by our teenagers. They did a play showing the conversion of John Newton (author of Amazing Grace). What a great job they did! I noticed that Samuel's hero Chip, as the elder Mr. Newton, was holding his quill pen with his left hand. Samuel is left handed, and we were just discussing how I didn't know anyone in our family that is, but either Jessica or Jillian is, and I wasn't sure who else was. As we were talking to Chip afterward Ben W piped up that he is too! So Samuel is in good company. :o)
They sang several songs within the program, all written by John Newton. The music was beautiful, and the teens did such a lovely job. Here is my favorite:
The Mercy Seat
Approach, my soul, the mercy seat,
Where Jesus answers prayer.
There humbly fall before His feet,
For none can perish there.
Thy promise is my only plea;
With this I venture nigh;
Thou callest burdened souls to Thee;
And such, O Lord, am I.
Bowed down beneath a load of sin,
By Satan sorely pressed,
By war without and fears within,
I come to Thee for rest.
Be Thou my Shield and Hiding Place,
That, sheltered near Thy side,
I may my fierce accuser face,
And tell him Thou hast died.
O wondrous love! to bleed and die,
To bear the Cross and shame,
That guilty sinners such as I,
Might plead Thy gracious Name!
Approach, my soul, the mercy seat,
Where Jesus answers prayer,
There humbly fall before His feet,
For none can perish there.
by John Newton, 1725-1807
Monday, June 04, 2007
Sunday Nuggets 6/3
What a wonderful Sunday! I will highlight our Sunday School today. We began a series called A Primer on the Psalms.
Why do we love the Psalms? The Psalms represent the response of the believing heart to the full range of human experience.
The theme of the Psalms is worship. Worship (“worth”-ship) is not just at formal gatherings or even times of personal communion. It is whole life—my response to every circumstance reveals my view of God’s worth.
Today was an introduction and brief survey of the Wisdom category of Psalms.
The theme of the Wisdom Psalms: We worship God by 1) acknowledging that He alone knows what blessedness is and 2) by following His pattern to attain blessedness.
The extent to which I follow His way shows how much I value His wisdom.
How does this flesh itself out? Consider the following, contrasted with our society’s view.
Wealth and success
(Psalm 49, 73) all men perish and leave their money behind
Family/children
(Psalm 127, 128) children are blessings from God
Blessedness
(Psalm 32:1-2) forgiveness of sins
I would very much desire to embrace the sentiment of this verse:
Psalm 119:128 I esteem right all Your precepts concerning everything
I show my belief in the rightness of God’s precepts by acting on them in my everyday life. May it be so by God’s grace!
Why do we love the Psalms? The Psalms represent the response of the believing heart to the full range of human experience.
The theme of the Psalms is worship. Worship (“worth”-ship) is not just at formal gatherings or even times of personal communion. It is whole life—my response to every circumstance reveals my view of God’s worth.
Today was an introduction and brief survey of the Wisdom category of Psalms.
The theme of the Wisdom Psalms: We worship God by 1) acknowledging that He alone knows what blessedness is and 2) by following His pattern to attain blessedness.
The extent to which I follow His way shows how much I value His wisdom.
How does this flesh itself out? Consider the following, contrasted with our society’s view.
Wealth and success
(Psalm 49, 73) all men perish and leave their money behind
Family/children
(Psalm 127, 128) children are blessings from God
Blessedness
(Psalm 32:1-2) forgiveness of sins
I would very much desire to embrace the sentiment of this verse:
Psalm 119:128 I esteem right all Your precepts concerning everything
I show my belief in the rightness of God’s precepts by acting on them in my everyday life. May it be so by God’s grace!
Monday, May 07, 2007
Sunday Nuggets 5/6
First, a word from Steven:
We were without power for about a day and a half. It made for a miserable night sleep. 99 degrees in the day time with nowhere for the heat to go. Our trailers turned into sweat boxes. I opened the window at night to try and let in some of the cool weather (70 degrees) outside at night. Power is back on today (Sunday morning).
This morning: The Indecisiveness of an Evil Generation, Matthew 12:38-45.
This group with whom Jesus conversed was indecisive about Him. They respectfully called Him "Teacher" and asked Him to give them a sign (as opposed to attributing His power to Satan, as the previous group had done, vv 24-36). They were not satisfied with the miracles of healing He had done. They wanted a "sign from heaven," on par with Old Testament prophets (fire from heaven, the plagues, etc.). In 1 Corinthians 1:22 we see that the Jews were still seeking a sign, and still today they are. Pastor cited some websites where Jewish people stated this very desire.
In essence this is saying, "God has not given me enough evidence."
> God has given us the four gospels, full of evidences of Jesus' deity and Messiahship.
> Church history is full of changed lives and the evidence of God's work.
> We should examine these things and see the light God has given. God does not demand "blind faith."
A person in this category is not willing to accept the evidence God has given, but demands MORE.
How does Jesus respond?
* v 39-40 He states that the only further authentication will be the sign of Jonah: "just as JONAH WAS THREE DAYS AND THREE NIGHTS IN THE BELLY OF THE SEA MONSTER, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." This is the Resurrection. (BTW, they did take this to heart, demanding soldiers to guard His tomb for the first three days.)
The RESURRECTION is still the difinitive sign today! Romans 1:4 says that Jesus "was declared the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead."
It is the Holy Spirit's work to convince people's hearts of this truth (John 16). Without His working, no man can believe. BUT we must yield. If a person continues to question, unwilling to accept the resurrection of Jesus, there will come a time when God will not call him anymore.
* v 41-2 Jesus points back to people in previous generations who believed God's revelation. Both the people of Ninevah and the Queen of the South responded in faith to God's revelation to them. They had much less information than the Jews of Jesus' day (and less than we do!). The Ninevites and the Queen will rise up in agreement at the condemnation of Christ-rejecters.
* v 43-5 Jesus gives a fearful present consequence also. He gives an illustration:
Now when the unclean spirit goes out of a man, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and does not find it. Then it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came'; and when it comes, it finds it unoccupied, swept, and put in order. Then it goes and takes along with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first. That is the way it will also be with this evil generation.
A warning that a person who attempts to "clean up his act" without coming to Christ will find himself in a worse state later.
The gospel is release and relief! If you find yourself continuing to question Jesus' claims, His resurrection, His deity, etc.--STOP! Believe Him! Trust His atoning work on the cross as the payment for your sins! Yield to His rule in your life!
Pastor specifically addressed the young people who have grown up in church, pleading with them to yield to Christ if they hadn't already. He indicated that two or three young people raised their hands to indicate that they would now trust the Lord. What joy that brought to my heart.
We were without power for about a day and a half. It made for a miserable night sleep. 99 degrees in the day time with nowhere for the heat to go. Our trailers turned into sweat boxes. I opened the window at night to try and let in some of the cool weather (70 degrees) outside at night. Power is back on today (Sunday morning).
This morning: The Indecisiveness of an Evil Generation, Matthew 12:38-45.
This group with whom Jesus conversed was indecisive about Him. They respectfully called Him "Teacher" and asked Him to give them a sign (as opposed to attributing His power to Satan, as the previous group had done, vv 24-36). They were not satisfied with the miracles of healing He had done. They wanted a "sign from heaven," on par with Old Testament prophets (fire from heaven, the plagues, etc.). In 1 Corinthians 1:22 we see that the Jews were still seeking a sign, and still today they are. Pastor cited some websites where Jewish people stated this very desire.
In essence this is saying, "God has not given me enough evidence."
> God has given us the four gospels, full of evidences of Jesus' deity and Messiahship.
> Church history is full of changed lives and the evidence of God's work.
> We should examine these things and see the light God has given. God does not demand "blind faith."
A person in this category is not willing to accept the evidence God has given, but demands MORE.
How does Jesus respond?
* v 39-40 He states that the only further authentication will be the sign of Jonah: "just as JONAH WAS THREE DAYS AND THREE NIGHTS IN THE BELLY OF THE SEA MONSTER, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." This is the Resurrection. (BTW, they did take this to heart, demanding soldiers to guard His tomb for the first three days.)
The RESURRECTION is still the difinitive sign today! Romans 1:4 says that Jesus "was declared the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead."
It is the Holy Spirit's work to convince people's hearts of this truth (John 16). Without His working, no man can believe. BUT we must yield. If a person continues to question, unwilling to accept the resurrection of Jesus, there will come a time when God will not call him anymore.
* v 41-2 Jesus points back to people in previous generations who believed God's revelation. Both the people of Ninevah and the Queen of the South responded in faith to God's revelation to them. They had much less information than the Jews of Jesus' day (and less than we do!). The Ninevites and the Queen will rise up in agreement at the condemnation of Christ-rejecters.
* v 43-5 Jesus gives a fearful present consequence also. He gives an illustration:
Now when the unclean spirit goes out of a man, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and does not find it. Then it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came'; and when it comes, it finds it unoccupied, swept, and put in order. Then it goes and takes along with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first. That is the way it will also be with this evil generation.
A warning that a person who attempts to "clean up his act" without coming to Christ will find himself in a worse state later.
The gospel is release and relief! If you find yourself continuing to question Jesus' claims, His resurrection, His deity, etc.--STOP! Believe Him! Trust His atoning work on the cross as the payment for your sins! Yield to His rule in your life!
Pastor specifically addressed the young people who have grown up in church, pleading with them to yield to Christ if they hadn't already. He indicated that two or three young people raised their hands to indicate that they would now trust the Lord. What joy that brought to my heart.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Sunday Nuggets 4/22
(posted 4/22)
No news from Steven yet, maybe tomorrow. Today was great. It's always good to be with fellow believers in the Lord Jesus, singing, listening to preaching and fellowshiping afterward. We had supper at Wendy's with Laura, a gal we sat next to in church. Such a sweet young lady. A sister in Christ.
Pastor preached this morning on Jesus defending the source of His power from Matthew 12:22-32. The Pharisees had accused Jesus of receiving His power (to cast out demons) from Satan. Jesus replied that
> If this was so, Satan's kingdom, being divided against itself, would self-destruct.
> This reasoning was inconsistent, since their sons also cast out demons, but they didn't make this accusation of them.
> His power was from the Holy Spirit, and that God's kingdom was near. The scope of His ministry far outstripped any other of that kind.
> He was plundering Satan's kingdom, having bound the strongman.
> A decision must be made regarding Jesus and who He is. Neutrality is not a choice in this case.
> Attributing Jesus' Spirit-empowered works to Satan was unforgivable. Can a person commit this sin today, since Jesus is not here on Earth doing these works? Hebrews 6:4-6 and Hebrews 10:26-29 seem to be parallel passages to this. It is very sobering and is meant to be!
I also love the message of this hymn, especially in light of our situation:
More Secure is No One Ever
More secure is no one ever
Than the loved ones of the Saviour,
Not yon star on high abiding
Nor the bird in home nest hiding.
God His own doth tend and nourish;
In His holy courts they flourish.
From all evil things He spares them;
In His loving arms He bears them.
Neither life nor death shall ever
From the Lord His children sever;
Unto them His grace He showeth,
And their sorrows all He knoweth.
Little flock, to joy then yield thee!
Jacob's God will ever shield thee;
Rest secure with this Defender--
At His will all foes surrender.
Tho' He giveth or He taketh,
God His children ne'er forsaketh;
His the loving purpose solely
To preserve them pure and holy.
Carolina V. Sandell-Berg, 1832-1903
Then the duet before the message:
May the Mind of Christ my Saviour
May the mind of Christ my Saviour,
Live in me from day to day,
By His love and pow'r controlling
All I do and say.
May the Word of God dwell richly
In my heart from hour to hour,
So that all may see I triumph
Only through His pow'r.
May the love of Jesus fill me,
As the waters fill the sea;
Him exalting, self abasing,
This is victory.
May His beauty rest upon me
As I seek the lost to win,
And may they forget the channel,
Seeing only Him.
Katie B. Wilkinson, 1859-1928
This sentiment has been very much on my mind lately. As I live in my home, I am so burdened to live in such a way as to lead my children to Christ, but also to be an example that they can follow! How can I train my children to be people of godly character when I so often am not displaying the very traits that I am trying to teach them to have?! The older my children get, the more aware I am of my need in this area. I MUST be Christ-like. I want to be able to say to them, as Paul did, "Follow me as I follow Christ." The mind of Christ, the Word of God, the love of Jesus, His beauty! Lord, grant me these evidences of Your blessing! Friends who pray for us, please pray in this way.
We have been doing fine these past few days. I guess it's a little sad, but also good in a way, we have been living without Steven for ten months now, so we have pretty much fallen back into our routine. We often mention that we miss Steven, but it hasn't been as hard as it could be. I very much attribute this to your prayers. So many people told me at church today that they have really been holding us up to the Lord since Friday. He is helping us!
No news from Steven yet, maybe tomorrow. Today was great. It's always good to be with fellow believers in the Lord Jesus, singing, listening to preaching and fellowshiping afterward. We had supper at Wendy's with Laura, a gal we sat next to in church. Such a sweet young lady. A sister in Christ.
Pastor preached this morning on Jesus defending the source of His power from Matthew 12:22-32. The Pharisees had accused Jesus of receiving His power (to cast out demons) from Satan. Jesus replied that
> If this was so, Satan's kingdom, being divided against itself, would self-destruct.
> This reasoning was inconsistent, since their sons also cast out demons, but they didn't make this accusation of them.
> His power was from the Holy Spirit, and that God's kingdom was near. The scope of His ministry far outstripped any other of that kind.
> He was plundering Satan's kingdom, having bound the strongman.
> A decision must be made regarding Jesus and who He is. Neutrality is not a choice in this case.
> Attributing Jesus' Spirit-empowered works to Satan was unforgivable. Can a person commit this sin today, since Jesus is not here on Earth doing these works? Hebrews 6:4-6 and Hebrews 10:26-29 seem to be parallel passages to this. It is very sobering and is meant to be!
I also love the message of this hymn, especially in light of our situation:
More Secure is No One Ever
More secure is no one ever
Than the loved ones of the Saviour,
Not yon star on high abiding
Nor the bird in home nest hiding.
God His own doth tend and nourish;
In His holy courts they flourish.
From all evil things He spares them;
In His loving arms He bears them.
Neither life nor death shall ever
From the Lord His children sever;
Unto them His grace He showeth,
And their sorrows all He knoweth.
Little flock, to joy then yield thee!
Jacob's God will ever shield thee;
Rest secure with this Defender--
At His will all foes surrender.
Tho' He giveth or He taketh,
God His children ne'er forsaketh;
His the loving purpose solely
To preserve them pure and holy.
Carolina V. Sandell-Berg, 1832-1903
Then the duet before the message:
May the Mind of Christ my Saviour
May the mind of Christ my Saviour,
Live in me from day to day,
By His love and pow'r controlling
All I do and say.
May the Word of God dwell richly
In my heart from hour to hour,
So that all may see I triumph
Only through His pow'r.
May the love of Jesus fill me,
As the waters fill the sea;
Him exalting, self abasing,
This is victory.
May His beauty rest upon me
As I seek the lost to win,
And may they forget the channel,
Seeing only Him.
Katie B. Wilkinson, 1859-1928
This sentiment has been very much on my mind lately. As I live in my home, I am so burdened to live in such a way as to lead my children to Christ, but also to be an example that they can follow! How can I train my children to be people of godly character when I so often am not displaying the very traits that I am trying to teach them to have?! The older my children get, the more aware I am of my need in this area. I MUST be Christ-like. I want to be able to say to them, as Paul did, "Follow me as I follow Christ." The mind of Christ, the Word of God, the love of Jesus, His beauty! Lord, grant me these evidences of Your blessing! Friends who pray for us, please pray in this way.
We have been doing fine these past few days. I guess it's a little sad, but also good in a way, we have been living without Steven for ten months now, so we have pretty much fallen back into our routine. We often mention that we miss Steven, but it hasn't been as hard as it could be. I very much attribute this to your prayers. So many people told me at church today that they have really been holding us up to the Lord since Friday. He is helping us!
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Sunday Nuggets 4/15
Elizabeth was sick in the night, so I stayed home with her this morning. Steven stayed with her this evening. She did still feel a bit feverish this evening, and took two naps during the day. Here is the first one:
Pastor preached about Women Ministering in the Assembled Church this evening. He had a very detailed handout, and an outline just wouldn't say much. . .
The choir sang a favorite song of mine:
Thy Way, Not Mine, O Lord
Thy way, not mine, O Lord,
However dark it be;
Lead me by Thine own hand;
Choose out the path for me.
Smooth let it be or rough,
It will be still the best;
Winding or straight, it leads
Right onward to Thy rest.
I dare not choose my lot;
I would not if I might;
Choose Thou for me, my God,
So I shall walk aright.
Take Thou my cup,
And it with joy or sorrow fill,
As best to Thee may seem,
Choose Thou my good and ill.
Choose Thou for me my friends,
My sickness or my health;
Choose Thou my cares for me,
My poverty or wealth.
Not mine, not mine the choice
In things both great and small;
Be Thou my guide, my strength,
My wisdom, and my all.
Horatius Bonar, 1808-1889
Wouldn't it be wonderful to be able to put this into practice every day!
On the way home this evening, Samuel spotted a pizza delivery car. "Hey," he exclaimed, "It's like the song: I've got the pizza passes understanding down in my heart!"
Pastor preached about Women Ministering in the Assembled Church this evening. He had a very detailed handout, and an outline just wouldn't say much. . .The choir sang a favorite song of mine:
Thy Way, Not Mine, O Lord
Thy way, not mine, O Lord,
However dark it be;
Lead me by Thine own hand;
Choose out the path for me.
Smooth let it be or rough,
It will be still the best;
Winding or straight, it leads
Right onward to Thy rest.
I dare not choose my lot;
I would not if I might;
Choose Thou for me, my God,
So I shall walk aright.
Take Thou my cup,
And it with joy or sorrow fill,
As best to Thee may seem,
Choose Thou my good and ill.
Choose Thou for me my friends,
My sickness or my health;
Choose Thou my cares for me,
My poverty or wealth.
Not mine, not mine the choice
In things both great and small;
Be Thou my guide, my strength,
My wisdom, and my all.
Horatius Bonar, 1808-1889
Wouldn't it be wonderful to be able to put this into practice every day!
On the way home this evening, Samuel spotted a pizza delivery car. "Hey," he exclaimed, "It's like the song: I've got the pizza passes understanding down in my heart!"
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Sunday Nuggets 4/1
First, I should say that we are very excited here!!! We had just sat down to breakfast when Samuel gasped and jumped up--the last link of our paper chain came down today! It was Elizabeth's turn to take one off, and she was just ecstatic. I heard her say to one person tonight, "My daddy is coming home this week!" and to another, "I took the last link off our chain this morning!" That about sums up how we all feel. :o) Steven will call us to let us know when he will be at the airport.
I would appreciate your prayers that I would be able to get the wallpaper up before he arrives. I know, I should have just left it until later, but now it's too far underway to turn back. It looks pretty yukky right now. So.
Pastor is out of town today, so we heard from Pastor V this morning. After the Easter cantata this evening Pastor R preached and served the Lord's Supper. Pastor R preached from Colossians, which is probably my favorite book. His text was chapter two, verses thirteen and fourteen:
When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions,having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.
Think about that!
Pastor V preached from Philippians 1:9-11, Advancing Fruitfulness in Love.
9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment,
10 so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ;
11 having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
A few observations about prayer:
> Scripturally informed prayers are a demonstration of and a means of increasing maturity.
> This kind of prayer is part of ministry to others.
> There is value in telling someone that you are praying for them, and in telling them what you are praying.
> Prayer is a means of enlarging the scope of your ministry.
Paul's prayer was. . .
~ rooted in God's interests.
~ rooted in God's character.
What Paul prayed:
* That your love may abound still more and more. . .
God loves in all He does. Love is the hinge upon which all Christian virtues swing. We must be characterized by it!
* . . . in real knowledge. . .
This, along with discernment, are guidelines for our practice.
This knowledge is that of experience. We are to have an increasing knowledge of God, by fresh experiences of communion with Him. This is something to pursue.
* . . . and all discernment
Discernment is the skillful use of knowledge.
What will be the result of God's answer to this prayer in my life?
1. I will choose excellent things.
2. I will be sincere and blameless before God at the judgment.
3. I will be filled with the fruit of righteousness.
Hallelujah! What a Saviour!
Man of Sorrows! what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood;
Sealed my pardon with His blood:
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
Guilty, vile and helpless, we;
Spotless Lamb of God was He:
Full atonement!--can it be?
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
Lifted up was He to die,
"It is finished!" was His cry;
Now in heav'n exalted high:
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
When He comes, our glorious King,
All His ransomed home to bring,
Then anew this song we'll sing:
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
by Philip P. Bliss, 1838-1876
I kept both children with me in the service tonight so they could hear the music. During one of the congregational songs, Elizabeth stood on the pew with her little pink Bible open and sang with all her might. It was so cute. She held the last note of the first verse a little longer than the rest of us. . .
Have a blessed week!
I would appreciate your prayers that I would be able to get the wallpaper up before he arrives. I know, I should have just left it until later, but now it's too far underway to turn back. It looks pretty yukky right now. So.
Pastor is out of town today, so we heard from Pastor V this morning. After the Easter cantata this evening Pastor R preached and served the Lord's Supper. Pastor R preached from Colossians, which is probably my favorite book. His text was chapter two, verses thirteen and fourteen:
When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions,having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.
Think about that!
Pastor V preached from Philippians 1:9-11, Advancing Fruitfulness in Love.
9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment,
10 so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ;
11 having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
A few observations about prayer:
> Scripturally informed prayers are a demonstration of and a means of increasing maturity.
> This kind of prayer is part of ministry to others.
> There is value in telling someone that you are praying for them, and in telling them what you are praying.
> Prayer is a means of enlarging the scope of your ministry.
Paul's prayer was. . .
~ rooted in God's interests.
~ rooted in God's character.
What Paul prayed:
* That your love may abound still more and more. . .
God loves in all He does. Love is the hinge upon which all Christian virtues swing. We must be characterized by it!
* . . . in real knowledge. . .
This, along with discernment, are guidelines for our practice.
This knowledge is that of experience. We are to have an increasing knowledge of God, by fresh experiences of communion with Him. This is something to pursue.
* . . . and all discernment
Discernment is the skillful use of knowledge.
What will be the result of God's answer to this prayer in my life?
1. I will choose excellent things.
2. I will be sincere and blameless before God at the judgment.
3. I will be filled with the fruit of righteousness.
Hallelujah! What a Saviour!
Man of Sorrows! what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood;
Sealed my pardon with His blood:
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
Guilty, vile and helpless, we;
Spotless Lamb of God was He:
Full atonement!--can it be?
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
Lifted up was He to die,
"It is finished!" was His cry;
Now in heav'n exalted high:
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
When He comes, our glorious King,
All His ransomed home to bring,
Then anew this song we'll sing:
Hallelujah! what a Saviour!
by Philip P. Bliss, 1838-1876
I kept both children with me in the service tonight so they could hear the music. During one of the congregational songs, Elizabeth stood on the pew with her little pink Bible open and sang with all her might. It was so cute. She held the last note of the first verse a little longer than the rest of us. . .
Have a blessed week!
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Sunday Nuggets 3/25
I would appreciate your prayers this week as I prepare for Steven's visit. I have a lot scheduled--I want everything to be just right for him. He will fly out soon, then he will find out when his flight comes back to the States.
Two highlights from today: the sermon from this morning and a poem. I wrote down the titles of four songs from this morning, so I don't know which I will choose. . .
Why Determined to Destroy?
Matthew 12:14 But the Pharisees went out and conspired against Him, how to destroy Him.
Has this reaction ever stricken you as extreme? He was so gracious, going about doing good works. How could anyone hate Him so much?!
1. The backdrop of the rejection of Jesus:
> mankind's rebellion against God
> man's voluntary rule by demons, master-minded by a prince
1 John 5:19 . . . the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.
This is Satan's kingdom, his domain!
> Jesus invaded this realm
Matthew 4:16-17 (speaking of Jesus, quoting from Isaiah 42) The people who were sitting in darkness saw a great light, and those who were sitting in the land and shadow of death, upon them a light dawned.
From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
It really struck me that even in Israel they were sitting in darkness! The only people on earth that really had access to the truth, and they were sitting in darkness and the shadow of death. Satan had his grasp, even here.
1 John 3:8 The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.
What does this destruction mean to people? Liberation! Freedom from the fear of death:
Hebrews 2:14-15 that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.
2. How would I expect Satan to respond to this invasion? Complacently seeing his kingdom threatened? (No!)
> The tempter came to Jesus soon after the beginning of His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-11)--personal confrontation.
> He incited men to destroy Jesus.
Beginning with Herod. (This was Satanically inspired, see Revelation 12.)
> The Pharisees attempted to discredit Jesus' ministry with the accusation that He cast out demons by the prince of the demons. Jesus answers that they are the ones working under Satan's influences. (see John 7:20, Matthew 12:24)
Only one side of this conflict can win--the other will be destroyed (Matthew 12:14, 11:21ff)
If I take Jesus seriously, I must either:
--accept His condemnation of me or
--seek to destroy Him
I am so thankful that God has extended His mercy to me, that I would accept His condemnation of me, and also His gracious offer of free salvation through Jesus.
Grace! 'Tis a Charming Sound
Grace! 'tis a charming sound,
Harmonious to the ear;
Heav'n with the echo shall resound,
And all the earth shall hear.
Refrain:
Saved by grace alone! this is all my plea:
Jesus died for all mankind, and Jesus died for me.
O let Thy grace inspire
My soul with strength divine!
May all my pow'rs to Thee aspire,
And all my days be Thine.
Philip Doddridge, 1702-1751
Ira Sankey, 1840-1908
Okay, two poems.
Look, Ye Saints
Look, ye saints, the sight is glorious;
See the Man of Sorrows now
From the fight returned victorious,
Ev'ry knee to Him shall bow;
Crown Him! Crown Him!
Crowns become the Victor's brow,
Crown the Savior! angels, crown Him!
Rich the trophies Jesus brings:
In the seat of power enthrone Him,
While the vault of heaven rings:
Crown Him! Crown Him!
Crown the Savior King of Kings.
Sinners in derision crowned Him,
Mocking thus the Saviour's claim;
Saints and angels crowd around Him,
Own His title, praise His Name:
Crown Him! Crown Him!
Spread abroad the Victor's fame.
Hark, those bursts of acclamation!
Hark, those loud triumphant chords!
Jesus takes the highest station:
O what joy the sight affords!
Crown Him! Crown Him!
King of kings and Lord of lords!
Thomas Kelly, 1769-1854
Okay, I hope this doesn't ruin this post for anyone, but I had to stifle my giggles at one point during the song service. We sang a song to a tune that I know, but the words I know to this tune are, "Drink to me only with thine eyes and I will drink with my nose. . ." Danny Kaye? Anyway, every time we came to that part of the tune I had trouble. . .
Two highlights from today: the sermon from this morning and a poem. I wrote down the titles of four songs from this morning, so I don't know which I will choose. . .
Why Determined to Destroy?
Matthew 12:14 But the Pharisees went out and conspired against Him, how to destroy Him.
Has this reaction ever stricken you as extreme? He was so gracious, going about doing good works. How could anyone hate Him so much?!
1. The backdrop of the rejection of Jesus:
> mankind's rebellion against God
> man's voluntary rule by demons, master-minded by a prince
1 John 5:19 . . . the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.
This is Satan's kingdom, his domain!
> Jesus invaded this realm
Matthew 4:16-17 (speaking of Jesus, quoting from Isaiah 42) The people who were sitting in darkness saw a great light, and those who were sitting in the land and shadow of death, upon them a light dawned.
From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
It really struck me that even in Israel they were sitting in darkness! The only people on earth that really had access to the truth, and they were sitting in darkness and the shadow of death. Satan had his grasp, even here.
1 John 3:8 The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.
What does this destruction mean to people? Liberation! Freedom from the fear of death:
Hebrews 2:14-15 that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.
2. How would I expect Satan to respond to this invasion? Complacently seeing his kingdom threatened? (No!)
> The tempter came to Jesus soon after the beginning of His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-11)--personal confrontation.
> He incited men to destroy Jesus.
Beginning with Herod. (This was Satanically inspired, see Revelation 12.)
> The Pharisees attempted to discredit Jesus' ministry with the accusation that He cast out demons by the prince of the demons. Jesus answers that they are the ones working under Satan's influences. (see John 7:20, Matthew 12:24)
Only one side of this conflict can win--the other will be destroyed (Matthew 12:14, 11:21ff)
If I take Jesus seriously, I must either:
--accept His condemnation of me or
--seek to destroy Him
I am so thankful that God has extended His mercy to me, that I would accept His condemnation of me, and also His gracious offer of free salvation through Jesus.
Grace! 'Tis a Charming Sound
Grace! 'tis a charming sound,
Harmonious to the ear;
Heav'n with the echo shall resound,
And all the earth shall hear.
Refrain:
Saved by grace alone! this is all my plea:
Jesus died for all mankind, and Jesus died for me.
O let Thy grace inspire
My soul with strength divine!
May all my pow'rs to Thee aspire,
And all my days be Thine.
Philip Doddridge, 1702-1751
Ira Sankey, 1840-1908
Okay, two poems.
Look, Ye Saints
Look, ye saints, the sight is glorious;
See the Man of Sorrows now
From the fight returned victorious,
Ev'ry knee to Him shall bow;
Crown Him! Crown Him!
Crowns become the Victor's brow,
Crown the Savior! angels, crown Him!
Rich the trophies Jesus brings:
In the seat of power enthrone Him,
While the vault of heaven rings:
Crown Him! Crown Him!
Crown the Savior King of Kings.
Sinners in derision crowned Him,
Mocking thus the Saviour's claim;
Saints and angels crowd around Him,
Own His title, praise His Name:
Crown Him! Crown Him!
Spread abroad the Victor's fame.
Hark, those bursts of acclamation!
Hark, those loud triumphant chords!
Jesus takes the highest station:
O what joy the sight affords!
Crown Him! Crown Him!
King of kings and Lord of lords!
Thomas Kelly, 1769-1854
Okay, I hope this doesn't ruin this post for anyone, but I had to stifle my giggles at one point during the song service. We sang a song to a tune that I know, but the words I know to this tune are, "Drink to me only with thine eyes and I will drink with my nose. . ." Danny Kaye? Anyway, every time we came to that part of the tune I had trouble. . .
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Sunday Nugget 3/11: Pilgrim's Progress
We are studying Pilgrim's Progress in Sunday School. I just loved this part, which represents people in the Church talking together.
Answers in Genesis has a great selection of Pilgrim's Progress books, study guides, CDs, etc. I have the audio drama and it is very good!
After listening to Samuel cough through the morning service, I decided to stay home in the evening. Oh, he was so sad! A rousing game of hide and seek helped somewhat.
Now I saw in my dream, that thus they sat talking together until supper was ready. So when they had made ready, they sat down to meat. Now the table was furnished with fat things, and with wine that was well refined: and all their talk at the table was about the Lord of the hill; as, namely, about what he had done, and wherefore he did what he did, and why he had builded that house. And by what they said, I perceived that he had been a great warrior, and had fought with and slain him that had the power of death, but not without great danger to himself, which made me love him the more.
For as they said, and as I believe (said Christian), he did it with the loss of much blood; but that which put glory of grace into all he did, was, that he did it out of pure love to his country. And besides, there were some of them of the household that said they had been and spoke with him since he did die on the cross; and they have
attested that they had it from his own lips, that he is such a lover of poor pilgrims, that the like is not to be found from the east to the west.
They, moreover, gave an instance of what they affirmed, and that was, he had stripped himself of his glory, that he might do this for the poor; and that they heard him say and affirm, `that he would not dwell in the mountain of Zion alone.' They said, moreover, that he had made many pilgrims princes, though by nature they were beggars born, and their original had been the dunghill.
Thus they discoursed together till late at night; and after they had committed themselves to their Lord for protection, they betook themselves to rest: the Pilgrim they laid in a large upper chamber, whose window opened towards the sun-rising: the name of the chamber was Peace; where he slept till break of day and then he awoke and sang—
Where am I now? Is this the
love and care
Of Jesus for the men that pilgrims are?
Thus to provide
that I should be forgiven!
And dwell already the next door to heaven!
Answers in Genesis has a great selection of Pilgrim's Progress books, study guides, CDs, etc. I have the audio drama and it is very good!
After listening to Samuel cough through the morning service, I decided to stay home in the evening. Oh, he was so sad! A rousing game of hide and seek helped somewhat.
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