Day 243 - I Have Found Him whom my Soul Loveth!

Today's Reading: Song. 3-4 and 1 Tim. 4

More beautiful reading from Song of Solomon. I have found Him whom my soul loveth! Have you found Him?? HE truly is amazing... A well of water springing up into everlasting life, a well that never fails to quench my thirst!

I love Song. 4:15, "A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon."

Commenting on this verse, Ellen White writes:

"Give, and it shall be given unto you” (Luke 6:38); for the word of God is “a fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams of Lebanon” (Song of Solomon 4:15). The heart that has once tasted the love of Christ, cries out continually for a deeper draft, and as you impart you will receive in richer and more abundant measure. Every revelation of God to the soul increases the capacity to know and to love. The continual cry of the heart is, “More of Thee,” and ever the Spirit’s answer is, “Much more.” Romans 5:9, 10. For our God delights to do “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20.

Of course, Song of Solomon was not just designed to be a beautiful metaphor of love drawing us to Christ, but an actual illustration of the beautiful love that could be between a man and a woman... But why was marriage given? It was given to show the Father's love and to give a representation of the sacred and tender union that exists between Christ and His people.

I think the main beauty of this book is the picture of what Christ longs to be to His church.

Here's more from Inspiration that I'm appreciating as I read through these beautiful passages:

Like every other one of God’s good gifts entrusted to the keeping of humanity, marriage has been perverted by sin; but it is the purpose of the gospel to restore its purity and beauty. In both the Old and the New Testament the marriage relation is employed to represent the tender and sacred union that exists between Christ and His people, the redeemed ones whom He has purchased at the cost of Calvary. “Fear not,” He says; “thy Maker is thine husband; the Lord of hosts is His name; and thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.” “Turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you.” Isaiah 54:4, 5; Jeremiah 3:14. In the “Song of Songs” we hear the bride’s voice saying, “My Beloved is mine, and I am His.” And He who is to her “the chiefest among ten thousand,” speaks to His chosen one, “Thou art all fair, My love; there is no spot in thee.” Song of Solomon 2:16; 5:10; 4:7. (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessings, p. 64)

Unfortunately much of modern day Christianity and worship, it seems, is built around US... around our love, around our perspectives and feelings of God, rather than around God Himself and who He really is. Devotion has turned into a very subjective experience and that’s why I think people walk away so easily when storms arise. But I believe if we really TRULY come to KNOW God personally on a deep level, if we truly come to taste and see that He is good (even when life isn’t always good), we won’t just be singing and thinking about ourselves anymore.... we will be exalting His name and all the magnificence that HE is. And like the bride of Solomon we will cry out: “I found him whom my soul loveth: I held him, and would not let him go...” (Song 3:4) And I will NEVER let Him go!!

Christ’ love for His bride (that’s you and me) is difficult to comprehend, for when He chose us, we were not fair. He chose us and died for us WHILE we were yet sinners..... Yet, difficult as it is to understand, WE are the ones whom His soul loves. And He saw past our sins, past the hurt we would bring Him, and He saw what His rescued and ransomed bride could become thru the power of the Holy Spirit. He gave all His love for us... won’t we give all our love to Him?

Tomorrow's Reading: Song 5-6 and 1 Tim 5

Day 242 - His Name is Wonderful

Today's Reading: Song 1-2 and Ps. 97-98

Well, it's time to begin the Song of Solomon! The book that all the love-birds love, and all the others try to stay away from... (Well... not quite, but anyway!) Personally, I admit that I haven't read this book for a long time. But wow, I've already been blessed... so much beauty here, even if you don't fit into the former "love-bird" category.

This passage immediately jumped out at me as I read today:

  "Thy name as ointment poured forth..." (Song. 1:3)

You know, when you care about someone, no matter how plain and ordinary their name may have once been, now their name becomes magical... Whenever you hear it spoken, whenever you hear it mentioned in conversation, your heart skips a few beats, and you smile inside... as a gentle glow of warmth fills your thoughts and heart. It's a beautiful part of love. Names I normally would not be attracted to or have ever thought of picking for my children (if I had children) suddenly become the most beautiful names in the world. And it's not just between lovers. I remember how one particular girls name I never really liked. But then I met a girl with that name and she became one of my best friends, and now I think that name is one of the most beautiful in the world. It's not plain and ordinary anymore because it reminds me of HER... and the characteristics that make her beautiful.

You know as I read this passage "Thy name as ointment poured forth," I think of the song, "His name is Wonderful..." Jesus name is wonderful and there's so many names that He has... they are as ointment poured forth...

Here's just a few of His names:

The Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16), Emanuel, God with us (Matthew 1:23), The Almighty, which is, and which was, and which is to come (Revelation 1:8), The Creator of all things (Colossians 1:16), The Alpha and the Omega (Revelation 1:8), The Word (John 1:1), The Word that was with God (John 1:1), The Word that was God (John 1:1), The Savior of the World (1 John 4:14), Messiah (John 4:25), Anointed (Psalm 2:2; Acts 4:27), The Lamb of God (John 1:29), The Way (John 14:6), The Door of the Sheep (John 10:7), The Shepherd of the Sheep (Hebrews 13:20), The Good Shepherd - that laid down his life (John 10:11), The Vine (John 15:5), The Tree of Life (Revelation 2:7), The Corn of Wheat (John 12:24), The Bread of Life (John 6:35), The Hidden Manna (Revelation 2:17), The Light of the world (John 8:12), The Bright and Morning Star (Revelation 22:16), A Refuge from the Storm (Isaiah 25:4), A Covert from the Tempest (Isaiah 32:2), The Rock of Ages (Isaiah 26:4), The Rock that is higher than I (Psalm 61:2), My Rock and my Fortress (Psalm 31:3), A Sure Foundation (Isaiah 28:16), A Living Stone (1 Peter 2:4), Faithful and True (Revelation 19:11), The Truth (John 14:6), Lord of Lords (Revelation 17:14), The Messiah, the Prince (Daniel 9:25), The Prince of Life (Acts 3:15), The King of Kings (Revelation 19:16), My Portion, My Maker, My Husband (Isaiah 54:5), My Well-beloved (Song of Solomon 1:13), My Savior (2 Peter 3:18), My Hope (1 Timothy 1:1), My Brother (Mark 3:35), My Helper (Hebrews 13:6), My Physician (Jeremiah 8:22), My Healer (Luke 9:11), My Refiner (Malachi 3:3), My Purifier (Malachi 3:3), My Lord, Master (John 13:13), My Servant (Luke 12:37), My Example (John 13:15), My Teacher (John 3:2), My Shepherd (Psalm 23:1), My Keeper (John 17:12), My Feeder (Ezekiel 34:23), My Leader (Isaiah 40:11), My Restorer (Psalm 23:3), My Resting-place (Jeremiah 50:6), My Meat(John 6:55), My Drink (John 6:55), My Passover (1 Corinthians 5:7), My Peace (Ephesians 2:14), My Wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:30), My Righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30), My Sanctification (1 Corinthians 1:30), My Redemption (1 Corinthians 1:30), My All in All (Colossians 3:11), The Bridegroom (Matthew 9:15; Revelation 21:9), The Rose of Sharon (Song of Solomon 2:1), The Lily of the Valley (Song of Solomon 2:1), A Bundle of Myrrh (Song of Solomon 1:13), A Cluster of Henna Blooms (Song of Solomon 1:14)

Truly, His name is as ointment poured forth, a healing balm for our wounded hearts and broken world! His name is wonderful!

*Thanks to Eric and Leslie Ludy for compiling this beautiful list of the Names of Christ... and the list is much more extensive then this! These are just a few...

Tomorrow's Reading: Song. 3-4 and 1 Tim. 4

Day 241 - Here is the Conclusion of the Matter

Today's Reading: Ecl. 12 and 1 Tim. 3

Today's reading has a number of interesting things... one of the highlights being all the qualifications for church leadership in 1 Timothy 3. Now if that advice were still followed today... hmmm... But anyway, I'm not going to go down this road right now...

Today I will focus on Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil."

In Inspiration we read the following:

Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the covenant was made that all who were obedient, all who should through the abundant grace provided, become holy in character, and without blame before God, by appropriating that grace, should be children of God. This covenant, made from eternity, was given to Abraham hundreds of years before Christ came. With what interest and what intensity did Christ in humanity study the human race to see if they would avail themselves of the provision offered.  

In His teachings, Christ showed how far-reaching are the principles of the law spoken from Sinai. He made a living application of that law whose principles remain forever the great standard of righteousness—the standard by which all shall be judged in that great day when the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened. He came to fulfill all righteousness, and, as the head of humanity, to show man that he can do the same work, meeting every specification of the requirements of God. Through the measure of His grace furnished to the human agent, not one need miss heaven.  

God’s law is the transcript of His character. It embodies the principles of His kingdom. He who refuses to accept these principles is placing himself outside the channel where God’s blessings flow.  

The glorious possibilities set before Israel could be realized only through obedience to God’s commandments. The same elevation of character, the same fulness of blessing—blessing on mind and soul and body, blessing on house and field, blessing for this life and for the life to come—is possible for us only through obedience.  

Let us not lower the standard, but keep it lifted high, looking to Him who is the Author and the Finisher of our faith. (Amazing Grace, p. 141)

Thankful that the God who has called us, will enable us! Through the measure of His abundant grace...

Tomorrow's Reading: Song 1-2 and Ps. 97-98 

Day 240 - Cast Thy Bread upon the Waters

Today's Reading: Ecl. 10-11 and 1 Tim. 2

So many practical thoughts in today's reading....  I especially appreciate the exhortation of 1 Timothy 2:2 to pray for kings and those in authority. That's why I do what I do in ministry today... because I believe in the power of intercessory prayer for our church and leaders.

However, for today's gold nugget reading, I'm going to focus on Ecl. 11:1, "Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days."

As Solomon learned so well, each one of us have an influence and what we send out will always eventually come back. If we live carelessly and send out ill with our words or actions, those things will return. And the same if we give and send out that which is good.

In Prophets and Kings we read the following:

"Among the many lessons taught by Solomon’s life, none is more strongly emphasized than the power of influence for good or for ill. However contracted may be our sphere, we still exert an influence for weal or woe. Beyond our knowledge or control, it tells upon others in blessing or cursing. It may be heavy with the gloom of discontent and selfishness, or poisonous with the deadly taint of some cherished sin; or it may be charged with the life-giving power of faith, courage, and hope, and sweet with the fragrance of love. But potent for good or for ill it will surely be. 

As the seed sown produces a harvest, and this in turn is sown, the harvest is multiplied. In our relation to others, this law holds true. Every act, every word, is a seed that will bear fruit. Every deed of thoughtful kindness, of obedience, of self-denial, will reproduce itself in others, and through them in still others. So every act of envy, malice, or dissension is a seed that will spring up in a “root of bitterness” whereby many shall be defiled. Hebrews 12:15. And how much larger number will the “many” poison! Thus the sowing of good and evil goes on for time and for eternity." (pp. 85-85)

Ecl. 11:6 goes on to say, "In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knows not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good."

Ellen White writes further: "In our lifework we know now which shall prosper, this or that. This is not a question for us to settle. We are to do our work, and leave the results with God." (Christ Object Lessons, p. 65)

Our influence counts! We may not be famous or well known, but everything we do makes a difference for the kingdom. So with the Lord before us, leading us and guiding us, let us strive to sow good seed. Let us seek to cast good bread upon the waters.... bread that will feed others for the Kingdom and will bring back a harvest of souls. 

Tomorrow's Reading: Ecl. 12 and 1 Timothy 3

Day 239 - Where the Word of a King is, there is Power!

Today's Reading: Ecl. 8-9 and 1 Tim. 1

You already know what I'm going to comment on today! I love love love this verse. So encouraging, so inspiring, and so reminds me of the God that I serve.

"Where the word of a king is, there is power!" (Ecl. 8:4)

Do we realize that we have a book full of the Words of a King! And in this book there is power! It's not the pages, it's not the book, but it's WHO the words came from... from the God of all creation, from our Savior and King, and inspired through the power of the Holy Spirit.

What God has said, He will do. His Word does NOT return unto Him void. He is faithful and true! And His Words bring power to mind and strength to our soul.

"There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God’s word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose that is rarely seen in these times." (Christian Education, p. 58)

When a king speaks, people listen... there is power in his words, people leap to obey his commands.
We have a King and He has spoken.... will we listen to His words?

Tomorrow's Reading: Ecl. 10-11 and 1 Tim. 2

Day 238 - Vanity of Wisdom apart from God

Today's Reading: Ecl. 6-7 and Ps. 95-96

Today's reading Solomon talks a lot more about the vanities of life, and the vanities of riches. He should know, for he had it all.

He also makes many surprising statements, things that are backwards from what we would consider normal. He says the day of one's death is better than their birth, sorrow is better than laughter, the end of something is better than the beginning, the just man perisheth in his righteousness and the wicked man's life is prolonged, then he says, there is not a just man that doeth good upon the earth and sinneth not...

There's wisdom in these statements and there's truth... but there's also the cry of one who has squandered the blessings given and is looking back in remorse and sadness.

As if off-setting the previous laments, Solomon shares the following statement of affirmation of God and His power: "Wisdom gives life to them that have it. Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight, which He hath made crooked?" (Ecl. 7:12-13)

Where is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom? It comes alone from God. Just read this interesting passage in EGW materials on the topic of wisdom and humility:

"God chooses men of a humble and contrite spirit through whom he can work, and imparts to them his wisdom. They are little in their own eyes, and will not interpret success as the result of their own smartness, but will glorify God. “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord.” If men are entrusted with great responsibilities, this is no assurance of their fitness for their position. The assurance comes after test and trial. If they evidence that they sense their own weakness, if they make God their trust, the Lord will supply them with his wisdom. If they ask in faith, they will increase in knowledge and ability. If they depend upon God day by day, the stages of development will show a symmetrical growth heavenward. If they walk day by day in humility and contrition and wholeheartedness, in the strictest integrity doing justice to their fellow-men, showing reverence and honor to God by being obedient and true to him, keeping the living principles of righteousness, God will honor them." (Ellen G. White, 1888 Materials, p. 1820)

You see, Solomon was humble and contrite in the beginning... and because of that God could work in a great way through him... but what happens when that greatness loses it's humility, and loses sight of God? All is vanity, all is vanity... this is the result... and I believe Solomon saw that at the end...

Let's learn from Solomon and not repeat his mistakes.

Tomorrow's Reading: Ecl. 8-9 and 1 Timothy 1

Day 237 - Do we Sometimes give the Sacrifice of Fools?

Today's Reading: Ecl. 4-5 and 2 Thes. 3

Now if I were to comment on my favorite verse in today's reading, it would be Ecl. 4:9-10.

"Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up." (Ecl. 4:9-10)

I love that verse... the power of two working together! :-)

But... I'm not going to comment on these verses... Something new that jumped out to me in today's reading was Ecl. 5:1. It reads as follows: "Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil."

As I read this, I thought to myself, "What is the sacrifice of fools?"

A cross-reference that I have in my Bible leads me to Exodus 3:5 which reads: "And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou staidest is holy ground." 

So here we are at the burning bush and Moses is told, "Don't come close unless you remove your shoes." What does removing the shoes symbolize? Putting away sin and defilement. Ellen White writes: "Moses at the burning bush was directed to put off his sandals, for the ground whereon he stood was holy.... Thus was constantly taught the lesson that all defilement must be put away from those who would approach into the presence of God." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 350)

Back to today's reading in Ecclesiastes, when the Bible speaks of giving the sacrifice of fools, I think that the correlation is, "Don't presumptuously come to worship God while holding on to your known and cherished sins. This would be the sacrifice of fools. For they come to sacrifice not considering that they are doing evil against God..." Wow! 

Do we sometimes give God the sacrifice of fools? We come to worship at church or even in our own private time out of habit, forgetting that we are on holy ground and all known sin must be put aside... not just once in awhile, but daily... Sobering thoughts to consider on this Sabbath day! 

Tomorrow's Reading: Ecl 6-7 and Ps. 95-96

Day 236 - He Makes all things Beautiful

Today's Reading: Ecl. 1-3 and 2 Thes. 2

As we begin the book of Ecclesiastes we see Solomon recognizing the fragility and the fleetingness of life. "All is vanity, all is vanity.... what has been done now was already done before and it will be done again... it all fades as the leafs... it will be forgotten."

It's like he finally is recognizing the futility of life apart from God. There's no meaning, no purpose, nothing to hold on to, all is at a loss if we spend our life focusing on the earthly... It's kinda a discouraging view to be honest, and that's what Solomon experienced later in his life when his eyes went off Christ to his prosperity and to his pagan gods.

Thankfully when we have Christ, thankfully all is not lost... we are laying up treasures in heaven as we obey and follow God, we are winning souls for the kingdom that we can spend eternity with. All that has pained us and brought confusion in this life will eventually make sense, for God says that "all things work together for good to them that love God and are called according to His purpose." (Rom. 8:28) That's a promise we can cling to. All is not vanity when it is done for the Lord!

Another favorite promise of mine is Ecl. 3:11, "He makes all things beautiful in His time."

Yes, even the painful experiences of life that we've walked through... He is turning those to beauty. Our tears of suffering, of question, of hurt will become crystals of diamonds that will soon turn to joy. He's laid them all up in a bottle. And He will make all things new. Not one painful experience we've walked through in this life will be in vain... someday He will turn our mourning into dancing... and we will say, "Truly, He has made all things beautiful in HIS time!"

I love this promise... things may not be the beautiful picture that you want now... but in His time... He will make all things beautiful...  That's God's promise and He can't go back on His Word.

Tomorrow's Reading: Ecl 4-5 and 2 Thes. 3

Day 235 - The Bride of Christ!

Today's Reading is Proverbs 31 and Psalm 94

Of course you know what I'm going to comment on today, right? How could I possibly pass over Proverbs 31:10-31 and the call to be virtuous women? However... this morning I'm going to consider things a little differently than usual. Rather than thinking about the qualities that we as women of God should cultivate or strive for, I'm thinking about the church...

I see this chapter as a call to the bride of Christ... a call to the church that we should be, especially in these last days.

Who can find a faithful church, a faithful bride? I see the Lord looking down from heaven asking, can I trust her with My heart? Will she do me good and not evil? Will she be faithful? Will she work for me? Will she work even in the night seasons when all seems dark and discouraging? Will she go to distant lands for me? Will she plant seeds for My kingdom? Will she keep oil in her lamp so that her candle does not go out at night when everyone else is slumbering? Will she have a heart for the poor and those that don't know me? Will strength and honor truly be her clothing?

I see the Lord saying...

This is my church, my bride. This is the woman whose price is far above rubies. This is the woman whose children (spiritual children) arise up and call her blessed, and I (the Lord) will also praise her and bless her. For her beauty is not just an outward adorning. Outward beauty is vain. But it is the woman who loves and fears me that is truly beautiful, and she shall truly be honored and praised... Just see the fruit of her hands (the fruit that she bears through me). Her fruit testifies of her love for me. Let her works praise her! Blessed is such a woman! This is my bride, this is my love, this is my church!

Isn't that beautiful. I'm sure we could go so much deeper in this picture of the bride of Christ, but even this overview inspires me so much. I also see in the story of the Proverbs 31 woman many of Christ parables put together. The man who buys the field, the sewer who sows good seed, the woman who looks for the lost coin, the parable of the wise (not the foolish) virgins, the one who does not hide their candle under a bushel, and the illustrations go on.

Let us (both men and women... I know this seems strange) strive to be such a bride to Christ. Let us be His virtuous church!

Tomorrow's Reading: Eccl. 1-3 and 2 Thes. 2

Day 234 - The Importance of the Vision

Today's Reading: Prov. 29-30 and 2 Thes. 1 

In Proverbs 29:18 we see the sobering reminder, "Where there is no vision the people perish." 

In Last Days Events, we read the following:

"The very last deception of Satan will be to make of none effect the testimony of the Spirit of God. “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18). Satan will work ingeniously, in different ways and through different agencies, to unsettle the confidence of God’s remnant people in the true testimony. 

The enemy has made his masterly efforts to unsettle the faith of our own people in the Testimonies.... This is just as Satan designed it should be, and those who have been preparing the way for the people to pay no heed to the warnings and reproofs of the Testimonies of the Spirit of God will see that a tide of errors of all kinds will spring into life. 

It is Satan’s plan to weaken the faith of God’s people in the Testimonies. Next follows skepticism in regard to the vital points of our faith, the pillars of our position, then doubt as to the Holy Scriptures, and then the downward march to perdition. When the Testimonies, which were once believed, are doubted and given up, Satan knows the deceived ones will not stop at this; and he redoubles his efforts till he launches them into open rebellion, which becomes incurable and ends in destruction." (Last Days Events, p. 178)

What serious times we are living in... and how it breaks my heart, because this is already true for many that I know. Let us continue to hold fast to God's Word, let's us pay attention to the "vision" that He has given this church... Let us prove all things according to His Word. Deception is sweeping the land and if possible, even the very elect will be deceived.

Tomorrow's Reading: Proverbs 31 and Psalm 94

Day 233 - Confess and Forsake

Today's Reading: Prov. 27-28 and 1 Thes. 5

Today I'm going to focus on Prov. 28:13: "He that covereth his sins shall not prosper, but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy."

It's one thing to confess that we've done something wrong. It's one thing to confess that our actions have been wrong. Many people make confession... but that's where they stop. They continue to do those same things... they continue to live in sin, they continue to confess and then do it all again. But we need to ask God to help us to turn, to forsake our sins, to walk a new direction...

In the Great Controversy, we find these solemn statements, reminding us why it's so important that we turn away from sin... not just in action, but in heart...

"If those who hide and excuse their faults could see how Satan exults over them, how he taunts Christ and holy angels with their course, they would make haste to confess their sins and to put them away. Through defects in the character, Satan works to gain control of the whole mind, and he knows that if these defects are cherished, he will succeed. Therefore he is constantly seeking to deceive the followers of Christ with his fatal sophistry that it is impossible for them to overcome. But Jesus pleads in their behalf His wounded hands, His bruised body; and He declares to all who would follow Him: “My grace is sufficient for thee.” 2 Corinthians 12:9. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them. 

Why is it so significant that we do this now?? That we turn away from sin now?

"We are now living in the great day of atonement. In the typical service, while the high priest was making the atonement for Israel, all were required to afflict their souls by repentance of sin and humiliation before the Lord, lest they be cut off from among the people. In like manner, all who would have their names retained in the book of life should now, in the few remaining days of their probation, afflict their souls before God by sorrow for sin and true repentance. There must be deep, faithful searching of heart. The light, frivolous spirit indulged by so many professed Christians must be put away. There is earnest warfare before all who would subdue the evil tendencies that strive for the mastery. The work of preparation is an individual work. We are not saved in groups. The purity and devotion of one will not offset the want of these qualities in another. Though all nations are to pass in judgment before God, yet He will examine the case of each individual with as close and searching scrutiny as if there were not another being upon the earth. Everyone must be tested and found without spot or wrinkle or any such thing." (The Great Controversy, p. 489)

Let's ask God to search our heart (Ps. 139:23-24) and show us the blindspots in our character or mind, the things that perhaps that we've not yet surrendered to Him... Let's confess and FORSAKE our sins! Time is running out, probation is short... we don't know how short.

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 29-30 and 2 Thes. 1 

Day 232 - Lack of self-control Leads to a Broken down City!

Today's Reading:  Prov. 25-26 and 1 Thes. 4

So many gold nuggets, but this morning I'm going to focus on Prov. 25:28, "He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls."

In other words, when we don't allow the Holy Spirit to control our thoughts/emotions/tongue/expressions etc, we are like a city full of breaches. Our walls are broken down and the enemy can come in on every side as he wishes... It's deadly! We have no spiritual fortification! 

Ellen White writes in the book Education, "In one moment, by the hasty passionate, careless tongue, may be wrought evil that a whole lifetimes repentance cannot undo. Oh, the hearts that are broken, the friends estranged, the lives wrecked, by the harsh, hasty words of those who might have brought help and healing." (Education, p. 236, 237)

Instead of giving loose reign to our every impulse, our every emotion, our every thought, let us seek to bind up the corner of our hearts and the corner of our mouths in the fear of the Lord. Instead of cursing, let our words be full of grace. Then we can fulfill the calling of Proverbs 25:11, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver." 

What a beautiful illustration of what our words should be... 

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 27-28 and 1 Thes. 5

Day 231 - As You Think, so You are!

Today's Reading: Prov. 23-24 and Ps. 92-93

The Bible says, "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he!"(Prov. 23:7)

That's why it's so important that we fix our mind on Christ, that we develop faith, that we continually look upward and seek to count the roses, and not the thorns of life. But we can't develop the heart/and mind that we need in our own will-power... we have to continually be pleading and asking the Lord to give us HIS mind. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus."

I remember my mom always telling me when I was a kid, "Life is what you make it and you will find what you are looking for. If you are looking for the negative, it will always be there. But if you look for the positive, you will find it." I thought she came up with that profound wisdom, then one day I discovered the same thought in Spirit of Prophecy.

Inspiration tells us, "Do not allow the perplexities and worries of everyday life to fret your mind and cloud your brow. If you do, you will always have something to vex and annoy. Life is what we make it, and we shall find what we look for. If we look for sadness and trouble, if we are in a frame of mind to magnify little difficulties, we shall find plenty of them to engross our thoughts and our conversation. But if we look on the bright side of things, we shall find enough to make us cheerful and happy. If we give smiles, they will be returned to us; if we speak pleasant, cheerful words, they will be spoken to us again." (Adventist Home, p. 430)

So this is my nugget of encouragement today for all those reading this blog! Let's keep our eyes upward, let's develop hearts of gratitude for the good things God has done. Let's look for the best in every situation!

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 25-26 and 1 Thes. 4

Day 230 - The Lord can Change Hearts!

Today's Reading: Prov. 21-22 and 1 Thes. 3

I love this verse in Prov. 21:1. "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, as rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will."

We saw how the Lord turned Pharaoh's heart during the children of Israel's time in Egypt. He actually hardened the king's heart that He might more fully show His glory.

But this verse also gives me encouragement... if the Lord can turn the hearts of kings, He can also turn the hearts of those that I pray for... of my loved ones, of those that don't know Him. I claim this passage often in my prayers.

Inspiration tells us: "We need the vitalizing power of the Spirit. The strong cry of a church travailing to bring souls. There is need of more earnest wrestling with God for the impartation of the Holy Spirit. Eager, earnest, importunate prayer is needed. There is efficiency in prayer. In answer to fervent prayer, God can turn the thoughts and hearts of men as he turns the waters of the sea." (Review and Herald, Dec. 30, 1902)

Here's another encouraging quote:

"The Lord will hear our prayers for the conversion of souls..." (Messages to Young People, p. 315)

So.... the moral of the story! Let us not fight with kings or men in trying to change minds (not that good discussions are wrong), but let's put our main energy fighting on our knees, for the Lord alone can change hearts! And prayer makes a difference...

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 23-24 and Ps. 92-93

Day 229 - Why we should Have Pity on the Poor!

Today's Reading: Prov. 19-20 and 1 Thes. 2

Prov. 19:17 says, "He that hath pity upon the poor lends unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again."

Almost daily I pass beggars on the street... They line the intersections around Silver Spring, MD and Washington DC asking for handouts, asking for sympathy... And my heart struggles how to relate. Some carry signs saying they are homeless, some carry signs saying they are hungry. Sometimes I give them food and sometimes I buy them a meal, but I rarely give money. But I feel overwhelmed by the great need and my own lack of resources or ability.

But as I read this passage today I am reminded of this quote from Desire of Ages:

By all that has given us advantage over another,—be it education and refinement, nobility of character, Christian training, religious experience,—we are in debt to those less favored; and, so far as lies in our power, we are to minister unto them. If we are strong, we are to stay up the hands of the weak. Angels of glory, that do always behold the face of the Father in heaven, joy in ministering to His little ones. Trembling souls, who have many objectionable traits of character, are their special charge. Angels are ever present where they are most needed, with those who have the hardest battle with self to fight, and whose surroundings are the most discouraging. And in this ministry Christ’s true followers will co-operate. (Desire of Ages, p. 440)

In Proverbs 21:13 we are told, "Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall not be heard." Hmmm.... very sobering!

We can't help everyone necessarily, but let us pray that God would help us to be more soft-hearted and open to that one, or those that come to us personally asking for a blessing. Let us have hearts of pity upon the poor... for we are poor too and God has pity on us!

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 21-22 and 1 Thes. 3

Day 228 - The Mind Body Connection

Today's Reading: Prov. 17-18 and Ps. 91

These blogs seem to be getting more difficult for me to do.... simply because I'm taking so many notes and there are so many inspiring thoughts and so many things that I would love to comment on or go deeper on.

Proverbs is so rich.... and then there's Psalm 91... one of my favorite Psalms. But this isn't a Bible commentary... it's just a place for me to share a few thoughts from each day, so....

I'm going to comment on Prov. 17:22 - "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine!"

How true this is! I know that I've literally seen this true in my own life, when I'm going through a time of discouragement, or I'm feeling down, it is then that I have the tendency to get sick, to start fighting a sore-throat, or something else... but when I'm doing well, and my heart is at peace, I stay well. I very rarely get sick. But if I'm upset or emotionally hurting.... yep... that's when I start to feel the edges of a cold or something coming on. There is such a mind/body connection....

I read the following in the margin of my Bible from the book Ministry of Healing.

The relation that exists between the mind and the body is very intimate. When one is affected, the other sympathizes. The condition of the mind affects the health to a far greater degree than many realize. Many of the diseases from which men suffer are the result of mental depression. Grief, anxiety, discontent, remorse, guilt, distrust, all tend to break down the life forces and to invite decay and death. 

Disease is sometimes produced, and is often greatly aggravated, by the imagination. Many are lifelong invalids who might be well if they only thought so. Many imagine that every slight exposure will cause illness, and the evil effect is produced because it is expected. Many die from disease the cause of which is wholly imaginary.  

Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote health and prolong life. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and strength to the soul. “A merry [rejoicing] heart doeth good like a medicine.” Proverbs 17:22.  

In the treatment of the sick the effect of mental influence should not be overlooked. Rightly used, this influence affords one of the most effective agencies for combating disease. (Ministry of Healing, p. 241)

So today's thought: Let us cultivate cheerful minds and hearts of gratitude. Let's guard our words -- for as I was also just reading in this chapter in Proverbs, "death and life are in the power of the tongue." When we speak words of faith and hope and love, those words react in our minds on our bodies. They not only bring healing to the mind but healing to others. And the reverse is also true.

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 19-20 and 1 Thes. 1

Day 227 - Before Honor is Humility

Today's Reading: Prov. 15-16 and 1 Thes. 1

You know, in the last few chapters, I've noticed a lot mentioned about pride and the dangers of pride.

Back in Proverbs 13:10, from yesterday's reading, this really stands out to me: "Only by pride cometh contention."

Hmmm.... consider the contention going on in your relationships today, or perhaps in our church.... Could pride and our lack of willingness to humble ourselves be the root of the some of the struggles we are facing?

I don't think we realize how dangerous and deadly is the sin of pride, especially spiritual pride!

In today's reading I see sobering passages like the following:

"The fear of the Lord is instruction of wisdom; and before honor is humility." (Prov. 15:33)

"Everyone that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord..." (Prov. 16:5)

"Pride goes before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud." (Prov. 16:18-19)

Why is pride so deadly in our lives today? Why is pride so deadly spiritually?

I'm reminded of a quote that I share often in my messages when I talk about my own struggles with spiritual pride. Consider the following:

"Man’s judgment is partial, imperfect, but God estimates all things as they really are. The drunkard is despised and is told that his sin will exclude him from heaven; while pride, selfishness, and covetousness too often go unrebuked. But these are sins that are especially offensive to God, for they are contrary to the benevolence of His character, to that unselfish love which is the very atmosphere of the unfallen universe. He who falls into some of the grosser sins may feel a sense of his shame and poverty and his need of the grace of Christ; but pride feels no need, and so it closes the heart against Christ and the infinite blessings He came to give." (Steps to Christ, p. 30) 

"God does not always choose for His work men of the greatest talents, but He selects those whom He can best use. “Before honor is humility.” Proverbs 15:33. The Lord can work most effectually through those who are most sensible of their own insufficiency, and who will rely upon Him as their leader and source of strength. He will make them strong by uniting their weakness to His might, and wise by connecting their ignorance with His wisdom. If they would cherish true humility, the Lord could do much more for His people..." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 553)

Let us humble ourselves before the Lord today and ask Him to take away our pride. Let us humble ourselves before our fellow man. There is no limit to the usefulness of one, who putting self aside, makes room for the Holy Spirit. And this is what we desperately need, to put self aside...

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 17-18 and Ps. 91

Day 226 - The Way Seems Right

Today's Reading: Prov. 13-14 and Col. 4

Some spend their lives trying to get rich, but in reality they have nothing. Others make themselves poor, but have great riches. How true of those who dedicate their lives to serving for God's glory!

I also think it's interesting how in Proverbs we are told, the wealth of the sinner is being laid up for the righteous.

I remember hearing a preacher talk about the storehouses of heaven, storehouses of unclaimed blessings. There is enough for all, but many of them are unclaimed. The sinners don't realize the reward waiting for the faithful... In the end, the faithful will inherit all.

This passage strikes me afresh today though: "There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end there of are the ays of death." (Prov. 14:12)

There is a way that seemeth right....

You know, from human standpoint, many ways seems right.... with human wisdom, many ways seem logical and the best way to take... but God knows the end of the story. "In deciding upon any course of action we are not to ask whether we can see that harm will result from it, but whether it is in keeping with the will of God." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 634)

Let us not follow the path that seemeth right, but follow God by faith, even when we are walking a path that does NOT seem right... Remember the just walk by faith and not by sight.

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 15-16 and 1 Thes. 1

Day 225 - A Crown to our Husband

Today's Reading: Provbers. 11-12 and Col. 3

Again, so much awesome wisdom in these chapters in Proverbs, and Colossians as well.

Here's some of the highlights:

• A wise person knows how to keep their mouth shut
• In many counselors there is safety
• A gracious woman does not lose her honor
• A giving person receives much more than he gives
• Those who win souls are wise
• The ROOT of the righteous shall not be moved - because our root is JESUS! (Prov. 12:3)
• The ROOT of the righteous yieldeth much fruit - because our root is JESUS! (Prov. 12:12)

This is so profound, because we would bear no fruit except for our ROOT, which is Jesus. "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me." (John 15:4-5)



But here's my favorite: 

• A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband! (Prov. 12:4)

I think this is a beautiful illustration of what a godly woman should be to her earthly husband. But even beyond this, do we recognize the fact that we are Christ' bride, and when we are faithful, we are actually a CROWN to JESUS!

Listen to this corresponding Bible passage: "Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God..." (Isa. 62:3) Wow! Too beautiful for words...

I want to be a crown in the hand of my Lord! How about you?

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 13-14 and Col. 4

Day 224 - Infinite Possibilities

Today's Reading: Proverbs 9-10 and Ps. 90

Many beautiful thoughts in today's reading...

Especially meaningful to me is, "The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich and he added no sorrow to it." (Prov. 10:22)

In the past, I remember thinking about certain things, "I don't understand....If this is of the Lord, why does it cause so much wounding and pain?"

However, a little further down the road I realized it was NOT of the Lord, I just thought it was of the Lord. The reality is, when it is of the Lord, it will not cause needless pain and wounding. Pain of growth, pain of death to self, YES, but not torturous wounding pain... So this promise is a real comfort to me as I look to the future waiting upon the Lord for His best plans...

In Psalm 90:17 we are told, "And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it."

Ellen White writes regarding this passage: "In every human being He discerned infinite possibilities. He saw men as they might be, transfigured by His grace—in “the beauty of the Lord our God.” Psalm 90:17. Looking upon them with hope, He inspired hope. Meeting them with confidence, He inspired trust. Revealing in Himself man’s true ideal, He awakened, for its attainment, both desire and faith. In His presence souls despised and fallen realized that they still were men, and they longed to prove themselves worthy of His regard. In many a heart that seemed dead to all things holy, were awakened new impulses. To many a despairing one there opened the possibility of a new life." (Education, p. 80)

When He sees infinite possibilities, let's not settle for less! Our God is good and He knows what He's doing in our lives. He knows where He is leading...

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 11-12 and Col. 3

Day 223 - As You have Received, so Walk

Today's Bible Reading: Prov. 7-8 and Col. 2

"As you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him." So how did we receive Christ Jesus in our life? We received Him by faith... We confessed our sins, we surrendered control of our life to Him, and we accepted by faith that He has forgiven us and that He is walking with us. So it is logical to conclude then, that this is how the Christian walk continues.

We continue to stay repentant at the foot of the cross... when/if we knowingly commit sin, we immediately confess. We continue to surrender afresh to God each day. And we continue to walk by faith trusting in His strength. We don't have what we need to be strong. We don't have what we need to be saved. We didn't in the beginning and we don't now... but in Him we have all things!

I love Colossians 2:9-13: "For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses."

Ellen White writes: "We can receive of heaven’s light only as we are willing to be emptied of self. We cannot discern the character of God, or accept Christ by faith, unless we consent to the bringing into captivity of every thought to the obedience of Christ. To all who do this the Holy Spirit is given without measure." (Desire of Ages, p. 181)

So let us stay emptied of self that He can fill us, that He can live through us, that our lives will truly be for His honor and glory!

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 9-10 and Ps. 90

Day 222 - Ravished by His Love!

Today's Reading: Prov. 5-6 and Col. 1

I find it interesting that right after Proverbs 4:23, "Keep the heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life," we have a chapter on avoiding adultery! But how fitting because adultery, infidelity, and all that comes with these roads of destruction always start in the mind. That's why it's so important that we "keep our heart" that we guard our mind, that we protect the avenues of the soul. Because God knows if our heart wanders, soon our body will wander after our heart...

In Proverbs 6:27 the question is asked, "Can a man take fire into his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?" In other words, what a dangerous path to walk in lusts...

But I love the encouragement back in chapter 5 - Be satisfied with the wife of your youth, be always ravished with her love. Being a romantic at heart, I think the term "ravished" is awesome. When you look it up in the dictionary it means:

- to fill (someone) with intense delight; enrapture. "ravished by a sunny afternoon, she had agreed without even thinking" 

synonyms: enrapture, enchant, delight, charm, entrance, enthrall, captivate

And isn't this the way true love should be? If we are ravished in love (with our spouse), why would we desire fake superficial lovers? Why would we go looking for short-term thrills in the arms of another when our heart has been captivated by our one true love!

While this is speaking of marriage, I believe this is the way it should be in our walk with God and with our Savior Jesus Christ! When He has captured our heart... we have no desire to have adultery with the lovers of the world. In fact, our mind/thoughts don’t even go there. Our heart belongs to Him and Him alone!

I love the parallel of Song 4:9, "Thou hast ravished my heart with one look of thy eyes..."

I am also reminded of the verse in Jeremiah 15:16, "Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts."

In Proverbs 15:15 we are told, "He who is of a merry heart has a continual feast." And I think this is so awesome because if we have fallen in love with Christ, HE is our CONTINUAL FEAST. (John 6:51, Ps. 34:8, Song 2:4).

So let our hearts be RAVISHED by His love today!

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 7-8 and Col. 2

Day 221 - Let God Plan for You!

Today’s Reading: Prov. 3-4 and Ps. 89

These chapters are pure gold… I could read them again and again!

So many beautiful lessons in the book of Proverbs and Psalms.

It’s difficult to decide what I want to comment on…

I think I’m going to mention two verses that speak afresh to me today….

First… Prov. 3:5,6 – This is one of the first verses I remember memorizing!

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy path.”

EGW comments… "Many are unable to make definite plans for the future. Their life is unsettled. They cannot discern the outcome of affairs, and this often fills them with anxiety and unrest. Let us remember that the life of God’s children in this world is a pilgrim life. We have not wisdom to plan our own lives. It is not for us to shape our future. “By faith Abraham, when he was called togo out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.” Hebrews 11:8. Christ in His life on earth made no plans for Himself. He accepted God’s plans for Him, and day by day the Father unfolded His plans. So should we depend upon God, that our lives may be the simple outworking of His will. As we commit our ways to Him, He will direct our steps. Too many, in planning for a brilliant future, make an utter failure. Let God plan for you. As a little child, trust to the guidance of Him who will “keep the feet of His saints.” 1 Samuel 2:9. God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him." (Ministry of Healing, p. 478-479)

Second verse: Ps. 89:15, "Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance."

When we walk closely with the Lord, this verse will be our experience! And it will be natural to turn to Him for every step and every move.... When He directs our path, it truly is beautiful!

Let's allow God to plan for us just as He planned for Christ...

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 5-6 and Col. 1

Day 220 - The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Knowledge

Today's Reading Prov. 1-2 and Phil. 4

I really can’t make adequate additional commentary... these verses in Proverbs are so profound and speak so deeply all by themselves. Basically... fearing the Lord, seeking the Lord, crying after the Lord is where all true knowledge and wisdom come from.

Prov. 1:5,7 - “A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels... The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

Prov. 2:1-6, “My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”

If we want to be truly wise, it starts with the Lord! Let us not settle for a superficial relationship, a superficial filling, a superficial walk… Let us dare to go deeper… to seek after the Lord with all our hearts, like searching for hidden silver. Imagine if we prized the Lord as much as we prize the earthly glitter... where would we be?

Ellen White writes the following sobering statement!

"Most professed Christians have no sense of the spiritual strength they might obtain were they as ambitious, zealous, and persevering to gain a knowledge of divine things as they are to obtain the paltry, perishable things of this life. The masses professing to be Christians have been satisfied to be spiritual dwarfs. They have no disposition to make it their object to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; hence godliness is ahidden mystery to them, they cannot understand it. They know not Christ by experimental knowledge." (Counsels for the Church, p. 186)

Let's not be content to be spiritual dwarfs... let's seek after Him as hid treasure... He is the Treasure! And He tells us, "If you seek me, you will find me, when you search for me with all your heart!"

How can I skip over Philippians 4? So many practical tips for godly Christianity... In fact, Phil. 4:8 has become a mainstay verse to evaluate different things that come across my path... if it doesn't measure up to these principles, what part should it have in our life?

Anyway, before I close these notes, let me just look at Phil 4:19.... "But my God shall supply all your NEED according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." (This is a very popular quoted verse...)

But do our hearts recognize our great need? If we aren't in NEED, what can God supply? Nothing, because we don't feel our need....

Ellen White writes, regarding this passage: "Let your heart break for the longing it has for God, for the living God. The life of Christ has shown what humanity can do by being partaker of the divine nature. All that Christ received from God we too may have. Then ask and receive. With the persevering faith of Jacob, with the unyielding persistence of Elijah, claim for yourself all that God has promised." (Christ Object Lessons, p. 149)

Tomorrow's Reading: Prov. 3-4 and Ps. 89

Day 219 - Job passed the Test!

Todays reading: Job 41-42 and Phil. 3

There’s a few interesting thoughts that stood out to me in today’s reading...

I loved the following verses especially:

God says: “Whatsoever is under the whole heaven is mine.” (Job 41:11)

That’s a good thing to remember when we start feeling possessive of personal property...

“He is king over all the children of pride...” (Job 41:34) Hmmm... Interesting... The proud tend to think they are the best... they tend to think that they are “king.” But God knows how to keep the proud in their place...

So in today’s reading we see that God has made His case clear and Job repents in dust and ashes. Then God calls Job to pray on behalf of his friends .... and while Job prays for his friends, God begins to turn the captivity of Job. (Good lesson for us today… instead of whining and complaining about our present circumstances, what if we prayed for others… and went to work serving others…)

Job looked above his circumstances and prayed for his friends... it's not easy to pray for others when you are in the dumps yourself and when your own life seems like it's falling or fallen apart... but Job didn't focus on his feelings but on God's word... What profound lessons for us today!

Ellen White writes the following encouraging statement: “Are you tempted to give way to feelings of anxious foreboding or utter despondency? In the darkest days, when appearances seem most forbidding, fear not. Have faith in God. He knows your need. He has all power. His infinite love and compassion never weary. Fear not that He will fail of fulfilling His promise. He is eternal truth. Never will He change the covenant He has made with those who love Him. And He will bestow upon His faithful servants the measure of efficiency that their need demands." Prophets and Kings, p. 165

“So the Lord blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning...” (Job 42:12)

What a testimony.

Tomorrow's Reading Prov. 1-2 and Phil. 4 

Day 218 - Who can Instruct God?

Today’s Reading: Job 39-40 Phil 2.

[Greetings en route from Montana back to Maryland! What a fabulous last several days of reading that I’ve had. I’ve been enjoying it so much, even though I haven’t been able to get online and post, what a blessing just reflecting afresh on the beautiful Word of God. Now that I’m back in the land of the Internet world, I’m going to copy and paste over notes that I took on my phone these last several days.]

In today’s reading of Job, God puts Job in his place as He speaks more about His amazing creation and majesty... and Job is completely humbled. When God finally gives Job a chance to speak, his first words are, “I am vile! What more can I answer thee...”

I expect that’s probably what all of our responses would be if we truly confronted the majesty of God face to face.... For when we truly recognize who God is, and when we truly see his glory... all we can do is fall in the dust and cry... “Woa is me!”

Job’s response reminds me of Isaiah’s response when he beheld the glory of God. “Woa is me! I’m a man of unclean lips.”

However, it is at the point of recognition of our great utter deprivation and need that Jesus can bend closest, for our greatest argument for His great mercy is our great need. And Job recognizes that at last… it’s not that he’s lived a perfect and upright life… apart from Christ that is still nothing. All our righteousness is still as filthy rags….

Tomorrow's Reading: Job 41-42 and Phil. 3

Day 217 - God Answers Job out of the Whirlwind!

Today's Reading: Job 37-38 and Ps. 88

For the past 6 chapters (including today's reading) Elihu has continued to rebuke Job for judging God. I love his final words today.

"Hearken unto this, O Job: stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God. Dost thou know when God disposed them, and caused the light of his cloud to shine? Dost thou know the balancing of the clouds, the wondrous works of him which is perfect in knowledge? How thy garments are warm, when he quieteth the earth by the south wind? Hast thou with him spread out the sky, which is strong, and as a molten looking glass? Teach us what we shall say unto him; for we cannot order our speech by reason of darkness. Shall it be told him that I speak? if a man speak, surely he shall be swallowed up.... Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent in power, and in judgment, and in plenty of justice: he will not afflict." (Job 37:14-20,23)

Finally.... after much silence, the Lord speaks. It is as if HE is agreeing with Elihu's rebuke to Job.

"Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me. Where wast though when I laid the foundation of the earth? Declare, if thou hast understanding." (Job 38:1-4)

And God continues to question Job... 

"Where you there when the morning stars sang together? Have you entered into the treasures of the snow? Did you bind the sweet influence of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion? Can you number the clouds in your wisdom?"

And God continues to ask many questions that Job has no answer for...

I expect Job was left speechless after this... what could he say? How could he question God? And yet... isn't it interest that today we still try to instruct God, we think we are wiser than He...

[ASI is over and I'm headed back to Montana to spend several days of vacation with my family. What a blessing though this past week has been! God has worked in many beautiful ways!]

Tomorrow's Reading: Job 39-40 and Philippians 2

Day 216 - He Giveth Songs in the Night

Today's Reading: Job 35-36 and Philippians 1

Today a couple things really encourage my heart. First, I love Job 35:10, "Where is God my maker, who giveth songs in the night."

Yes, even in the dark night seasons, God can continue to put songs of joy in our hearts. He has done it for me and I know He is doing it for many others. Actually, to be honest, I have found that singing, especially when I'm afraid or discouraged, is great at helping me feel calm and that He is near.

"When the enemy comes with his darkness, sing faith and talk faith, and you will find that you have sung and talked yourself into the light."  (Mind, Character and Personality, vol. 2, p. 650)

Secondly, I also enjoyed starting Philippians 1 today: And being reminded that the work God has started in us, He will be faithful to complete. 

Paul also reminds us, "For me to live is Christ and to die is gain." I actually gain when I die... 

As long as we are in Christ, we lose nothing in those night seasons, or in the valley of death. And the songs we sing reminds us of the morning that is coming. For to die, truly is gain. To die to self is gain, to die in Christ is gain... 

Tomorrow's Reading: Job 37-38 and Ps. 88