Thankful Thursday

 

 

As the few remaining minutes of 2015 wind down, I want to take a few moments to express my gratitude for the many blessings God has poured out in my life over this past year.

 

a steady job

 

committed friends

 

my loving family

 

growing relationships

 

God's word--instruction for living

 

opportunities to serve

 

struggles that have brought new strength

 

a new roof over our heads

 

a new driveway

 

a "new to us" vehicle

 

the gift of forgiveness

 

God's mercies that are new every morning

 

GRACE

 

As I look ahead, I don't know where the path of my life will lead, but I am grateful that I know the God who determines that path.

 

 

Thankful Thursday

 

 

It's Friday morning, and I'm late writing my Thankful Thursday post.  It's a reminder to me how easy it is to get caught up in everything that is going on, and neglect expressing appreciation for all the blessings I have received.  Does this happen to you too?  I know that God delights in my praise, and I do make it a practice to communicate gratitude, but in reality, I could be offering unending thanksgiving for who God is and what I have received from Him.  The apostle Peter reminds me that God "has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness,"  I am thankful for:

 

eternal life

 

physical health

 

a job I enjoy

 

friends who support and encourage me

 

food

 

a loving family

 

pictures

 

a roof over my head

 

a newer family vehicle

 

joy

 

peace

 

the power of prayer

 

God's indwelling Spirit

 

GRACE!

Thankful Thursday

 

 

I have so much to be grateful for.  When I take the time to stop and consider the direction my life was headed, the chains that bound me to sin, and the hopelessness I woke to every day, I marvel at the grace God has shown me.  The bible is very clear: all have sinned.  And because of that sin, I deserved death.  But God "made Him who knew no sin to be sin on [my] behalf, that [I] might become the righteousness of God in Him." 2 Cor. 5:21

 

I thank God that though I once lived in the darkness and depravity of sin, He rescued me and adopted me into His family.  He sent His Son to redeem me!  And to give me new life.

 

As we celebrate Christmas this year, I want to meditate on the incredible gift God gave.

 

So thankful that JESUS is:

 

Wonderful Counselor

 

Mighty God

 

Prince of Peace

 

Eternal Father

 

King of kings

 

Lord of lords

 

Alpha and Omega

 

Sacrificial Lamb

 

Author of Salvation

 

Resting in His grace tonight.  Rejoicing in His goodness!

Thankful Thursday

 

 

As I take a few minutes to reflect this evening, I'm thankful for

 

good conversations

 

compassion

 

sight

 

opportunities to serve

 

family

 

answered prayer

 

heat

 

Carl

 

God's word

 

friends

 

creation

 

beauty

 

music

 

work

 

learning

 

Grace

Thankful Thursday

 

 

In everything give thanks

 

Don't worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving...

 

My brethren, count it all joy when you encounter various trials

 

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts...and be thankful

 

 

GRATITUDE,

 

It's an attitude of my heart

 

Only God can discern that condition

 

Over and over in His word, He invites me to clothe myself with thankfulness

 

Unfortunately,

 

too often I'm so self-focused that I lose sight of His goodness

 

Things don't go as planned

 

Expectations aren't met

 

I don't get my way

 

Struggles surround me and temptations overwhelm

 

But I have found that no matter how bad a situation may seem, how difficult the path in front of me, how frustrating my circumstances; there is always something for which to be thankful.  If I can look beyond myself, let go of my pride and my selfishness, and take hold of God's goodness; perspective changes and my spirit is lifted.  And I can praise Him!

 

God is faithful

forgiving

merciful

unchanging

mighty to save

a shelter from the storm

life

light

living water

creator

sustainer

healer

tender

helpful

shepherd

protective

and always full of

GRACE

 

Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise.  Give thanks to Him; bless His name.  For the Lord is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting, and His faithfulness to all generations.  Ps. 100:4,5

 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

Thankful Thursday

 

 

Tonight as I pause to give thanks I'm reminded that I serve a God who is unlimited

 

I'm grateful that He is:

 

All powerful

 

All knowing

 

Present everywhere

 

The Light that overcomes every darkness

 

The Creator of heaven and earth

 

The Way, the Truth, and the Life

 

My rock and my salvation

 

My Shepherd

 

The bread of life

 

The living water

 

My Redeemer

 

My Savior

 

I'm also grateful for:

 

rain

 

the power of prayer

 

the timeless truths of God's word

 

family

 

a warm and dry house

 

GRACE

Thankful Thursday

 

 

From a thankful heart let praises rise

 

To the One whose glory fills the skies

 

His love and patience always astound

 

His attentive Spirit can always be found

 

Whispering words of comfort and cheer

 

Words He knows I need to hear

 

So tonight my thanks to Him I give

 

He's taught me how to truly live

 

 

This week I've definitely seen the hand of God moving in my life and the lives of others.  I've seen the fulfillment of His promise to respond to prayer on many fronts.  He has poured out grace and offered forgiveness over and over.  I'm so thankful that His word is faithful and true.  He never fails!  In a world that is constantly changing, He remains the rock to which I can anchor my life, the light that never is shadowed, the Shepherd who never abandons.  He is my strength and my song.  I have no need to fear.

 

PRAISE HIM!

Thankful Thursday

 

 

As I sit on my couch in my warm house with my family this evening, and consider some recent conversations, I realize how much I have to be thankful for.  I just heard today about a couple who have chosen to call it quits after 37 years of marriage.  How grateful I am for my wife of 31 years (as of December 29) and the life God has blessed us with.  I know one of the keys to the success of our relationship is the time we spend praying with and for each other.  I'm thankful for the avenue of communication God has provided for us and for the power available to us when we pray.  The same power that raised Christ Jesus from the dead works in me, bringing new life and transformation.

 

I'm also thankful this evening for:

 

my job

 

new grass

 

my servant hearted son

 

music

 

God's peace that guards my heart and mind

 

freedom

 

friends

 

God's word

 

love that sent Christ to the cross

 

Grace 

Thankful Thursday

 

Sharing with an old friend yesterday who I hadn't seen in many years.  As we caught up on the twists and turns of our lives, I was reminded of how much I have to be thankful for.

 

God's timing and orchestration in my life.

 

God's amazing love for each one of us.

 

His provision.

 

The promise of eternity spent with Jesus.

 

God's patience with me.

 

The blessing of family.

 

 

On another note, some of the homes I get into make me very thankful for:

 

A wife who is neat and orderly.

 

The fact that I don't have any pets.

 

A clean and comfortable place to come home to.

 

People who are glad to see me at the end of the day.

 

Kind words.

 

 

And of course this list would not be complete without--

 

GRACE!

Thankful Thursday

 

 

The list of things I have to be thankful for is endless.  Just sitting down and taking some time to think about it lifts my spirits.  The few things I mention here only scratch the surface of all the blessings I've received from the good hand of my God.  Tonight I praise Him for:

 

His faithfulness

 

His holiness and purity

 

His incredible patience

 

Our new driveway

 

Strength for working and playing

 

Joy

 

Living water

 

My family

 

Chats with my kids

 

Opportunities to serve

 

Challenging messages

 

Grace

Thankful Thursday

 

 

Thinking about a verse from Isaiah 42 recently.

 

And I will lead the blind by a way they do not know, in paths they do not know I will guide them.  I will make darkness into light before them and rugged places into plains.  These are the things I will do, and I will not leave them undone.

Is. 42:16

 

I am so grateful God gave sight to this blind man.

 

I praise Him for being my Guide, leading me even when I don't know the path I'm on.

 

I'm thankful He smooths the way in front of me.

 

I know His word is true, and He will not leave these things undone.

 

In addition, I'm thankful for:

 

God's faithfulness

 

His everlasting love

 

Rain!

 

A boss who is a brother and a friend

 

Challenging conversations

 

Growth--even though the process is painful at times

 

Family

 

Grace!

Thankful Thursday

 

 

I experience the goodness of God every day.  He is faithful in all circumstances.  Even when my faith wavers, He remains the same.  He cannot change.  I'm so grateful for that consistent care that He offers me.

 

When I am weary, He invites me to find rest in Him

 

When my burdens seem to heavy to bear, He tells me to cast them at His feet

 

When I stumble and fall, He offers forgiveness and a helping hand to get back on my feet

 

When I wonder where I'm headed, His word lights the path in front of me

 

He puts a song in my heart and on my lips

 

He provides grace in responding to trying people

 

He has blessed me with a wife and 3 special kids

 

And tonight he provided meat for the freezer

 

I could go on, but you get the idea.  I have a God who is trustworthy and worthy of all honor.

Thankful Thursday

 

 

Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

So thankful that God is eternal--He is the same yesterday, today, and forever!

 

Very grateful that He is immortal--Death has no power over my God.

 

Mixed feelings about His invisibility--Sometimes I think it would be wonderful to see God, but I know a day is coming when I will see His face, and most likely end up flat on my face!

 

He is the only God--there is no one like my God.  He surpasses all.

 

He deserves all honor and glory--God is the only One who should receive my praise.

 

And His praise will be proclaimed long after this world has disintegrated.  Forever we will sing of God's glory.

 

I'm thankful on this Thursday evening for my God

 

He is holy, righteous, and pure

 

He is compassionate and gracious, and slow to anger

 

He is patient

 

He is my Rock and my Fortress

 

He loves me with an everlasting love

 

He has poured out grace in my life far beyond what I can even imagine.

 

Have you taken any time today to just say thanks to Him who sits on the throne?  I hope so!

Thankful Thursday

 

The theme of thanksgiving runs deep in God's word.  Over and over God tells us to show gratitude and appreciation for the many gifts we receive.  If I fail to express thanks to God and others, I'm actually practicing disobedience.  So, wanting to avoid falling into that trap, I share with you yet again a very much abridged version of the blessings God has poured out in my life.

 

Rain!! We sure needed it.

 

Eyesight--limited as it is, I can't begin to express how much I appreciate having it

 

A comfortable home

 

Food--I sure love to eat.  And I've rarely been truly hungry

 

Friends--opportunities to support and encourage them

 

Marriage

 

Children

 

Grace

 

 

Thankful Thursday

 

 

It's been an unusual week.  The adventures and challenges of life give me much to be thankful for.  As I pause on this Thursday evening, I'm grateful that I serve a God who is never surprised, always faithful, and constantly present in my life.  I'm also thankful for:

 

A reliable vehicle(put another 1,000 miles on it this past week)

 

Time spent with all four of my siblings and their families over the weekend

 

Another chance to help my brother and his family move toward getting back in their house

 

The skills God has allowed me to acquire

 

The sanctity of marriage and the celebration of my niece's wedding

 

Laughter(it really is good medicine)

 

Quiet evenings at home

 

A backyard with an incredible view of God's splendor

 

Opportunities to invest in those around me

 

Forgiveness and grace

Thankful Thursday

 

It's Thursday, and that means I take a few moments to pause and give credit to God for His many good gifts in my life.  James tells us that every good thing and every perfect gift comes from our Father in heaven.  So I acknowledge His generosity to me.  Some of the things I'm grateful for are:

 

Changing seasons-physical and spiritual

 

a job I enjoy

 

Friends who pray

 

my FAMILY

 

challenging conversations

 

opportunities to serve

 

adoption-I'm a child of the King

 

early morning prayer time with my wife

 

laughter

 

learning lessons

 

grace

Wisdom in our work

Do you see a man skilled in his work?  He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.  Prov. 22:29

As I studied through Proverbs on the subject of work, a number of principles rose to the surface.  This verse from chapter 22 gives a picture of the value of being good at what I do.  Who will benefit from my work, kings or just ordinary people?  My efforts in getting better at what I do determine how that question will be answered.  10:4 also promotes this idea.  "Poor is he who works with a negligent hand, but the hand of the diligent makes rich."

Many other verses in this book also warn against laziness:
       10:26-Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the lazy one to those who send him.
       12:11-He who tills his land will have plenty of bread, but he who pursues vain things lacks sense.
       12:24-The hand of the diligent will rule, but the slack hand will be put to forced labor.
       19:15-Laziness casts into a deep sleep, and an idle man will suffer hunger.
       19:24-The sluggard buries his hand in the dish, and will not even bring it back to his mouth.
       20:4-The sluggard does not plow after the autumn, so he begs during the harvest and has nothing.
       22:13-The sluggard says, "There is a lion outside; I shall be slain in the streets!"
Do I practice diligence or laziness in my work?  Putting forth the effort needed to perform required tasks comes with reward, but the opposite is also true.  When I just stumble along, or make excuses for not doing my best, it indicates my lack of intelligence and prevents me from prospering.  Which will I choose?

6:6-8-Go to the ant, O sluggard, observe her ways and be wise, which, having no chief, officer or ruler, prepares her food in the summer, and gathers her provision in the harvest.
These verses speak to the need to be forward thinking in my work.  I shouldn't always depend on others to give me direction before starting a task.  When I see a need, I should do my part to meet it.

Another wisdom practice in my work centers around faithfulness.  Part of this has to do with not just looking out for myself, but rather contributing to those I work for.
     13:17-A wicked messenger falls into adversity, but a faithful envoy brings healing.
     25:13-Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest is a faithful messenger to those who send him, for he refreshes the soul of his masters.
Do I look for opportunities to bring refreshment and blessing to my boss?  Faithfulness will do that.

20:10-Differing weights and differing measures, both of them are abominable to the Lord.
20:23-Differing weights are an abomination to the Lord, and a false scale is not good.
These two verses bring out another principle for wisdom.  Fairness and justice in my business practices are a necessity.  Anything else meets with God's disapproval.  In fact, receiving less income by doing right is better than using questionable practices to make more.  16:8-Better is a little with righteousness than great income with injustice.

So I have choices in front of me.  If I plan to walk in the way of wisdom as a worker, I need to exercise diligence, self-motivation, faithfulness, and justice.  I know I need God's help in living these thing out.
       

Wisdom in Relationships

 

 

He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.

Prov. 13:20

Proverbs gives us much instruction about relationships, most of it in the form of warnings.  This verse says it in a nutshell.  We have choices to make when it comes to friendships.  Motivation drives those decisions.  Do I want to gain wisdom?--I need to start hanging out with wise people.  This verse tells us the flip side of becoming wise actually involves experiencing harm rather than just being foolish.  Seems like an easy decision to make.  Unfortunately, too often I find myself hanging out with the wrong kind of people.

 

Prov. 1:10-16 spells it out for us this way:  My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.  If they say, "Come with us, let us lie in wait for blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause; let us swallow them alive like Sheol, even whole as those who go down to the pit; we shall find all kinds of precious wealth, we shall fill our houses with spoil; throw in your lot with s, we shall all have one purse."  My son, do not walk in the way with them.  Keep your feet from their path, for their feet run to evil, and they hasten to she blood.  Now, when I read those verses, it seems like the description of the invitation makes this choice an easy one.  Why would I respond to anyone affirmatively who asked me to help them harm others?  Usually though, temptation doesn't come in a nice neat package like this.  Subtlety is one of our enemy's greatest weapons.  And too often I miss the warning signs and plunge into harmful situations heedlessly. 

 

An example of this comes in 11:12:  He who despises his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding keep silent.  I have to admit my guilt in this area.  I struggle in responding correctly to a neighbor, and often find myself despising them.  I don't think of it as wishing harm on them, but at times I mention something about them to others hoping they will see the situation the same way I do.  According to this verse, when I react in this way, I lack sense!  I've been praying for God to change my heart in this area, but it seems like an uphill battle.

 

A few other warnings about the kind of people not to hang out with:

     14:7--Leave the presence of a fool, or you will not discern words of knowledge.

     22:24,25--Do not associate with a man given to anger; or go with a hot-tempered man, lest you learn his ways, and find a snare for yourself.

     23:20,21--Do not be with heavy drinkers of wine, or with gluttonous eaters of meat; for the heavy drinker and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe a man with rags.

 

Another area Proverbs addresses is family relationships:

     17:17--A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

     18:24--A man of many friends comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

     27:10--Do not forsake your own friend or your father's friend, and do not go to your brother's house in the day of your calamity; better is a neighbor who is near than a brother far away.

There appears to be some conflicting advice here.  One verse says brothers are born for adversity, while another claims that I would be better off going to my neighbor rather than my brother when trouble comes.  I believe the bottom line in this principle looks something like this:  I need to be building relationships and engaging with a community of people which may or may not include my immediate family.  These people make up my support system when life takes a left turn.  I can call on them.  They will stand with me and help me through those tough times.

 

I know I haven't covered all of the principles found in Proverbs on this subject.  I'll leave room for you to dive in and study some yourself.  I'd love to hear what you find.  I want to leave this time with one final piece of advice from 25:17--Let your foot rarely be in your neighbor's house, lest he become wear of you and hate you.  Don't become a pest!  Don't make your neighbor feel like he needs an exterminator to get rid of you.

 

Thankful Thursday

 

 

So let us know, let us press on to know the Lord,

His going forth is as certain as the dawn;

and He will come to us like the rain,

like the spring rain watering the earth.

Hos. 6:3

 

I came across this verse in my studying of the word this week.  What an invitation and promise!

And as I pause on this Thursday to reflect on the things I have to be grateful for, God's investment in me as His son tops the list.

For today, I thank God for:

 

His certainty and faithfulness

 

His refreshing presence

 

His patience and forgiveness

 

His incredible gift of salvation and eternal life

 

His power

 

His creativity

 

His expression of favor--my loving wife

 

His abundant blessing--my three children

 

His Spirit--my comforter, helper, and teacher

 

laughter

 

friends

 

answers to prayer

 

His grace

Thankful Thursday

I spent the day at a leadership summit.  Sitting all day was a bit of a challenge for me, but I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow.  I went into the day asking God to give me a humble heart and a teachable spirit so that I could hear what He wanted me to.  I was reflecting on Phil. 2 to start my day.  I have so much to be thankful for:

I'm an adopted child of the King of kings

I have a wonderful Savior who has exemplified humility 

I'm surrounded by brothers and sisters who love me warts and all

New friends

God's word--TRUTH

laughter

conversations around the backyard fire pit

safety--the unseen warriors who shield me from dangers I'm not even aware of

God's miraculous power

rest and renewal 

Grace

I could go on, but my time is up.  I hope you will join me in reflecting and rejoicing and expressing gratitude to the One who is deserving of all praise

And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat upon it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war.  Rev. 19:11

Thankful Thursday

It's Thursday again, so for a few minutes I'm pausing to reflect on the many blessings God has poured out in my life and say thank you for:

Forgiveness

His everlasting love

Endurance

Safety

Children, my own biological ones and others He allows me to invest in

The beauty that surrounds me in creation

Rest

Birthdays

Victory through the blood of Christ

Air conditioning--it helps my wife survive these hot summer days!

Grace

Thankful Thursday

 

 

Two words that frequently get overlooked in our everyday mad rush to "get er done" but are essential to healthy relationships:  Thank You!

 

So tonight I pause and express my gratitude to God for:

 

Family

 

Safe traveling

 

Not running out of gas on the NYS Thruway

 

Work accomplished

 

Nephews and Nieces

 

Morning prayer times with my wife

 

Cell phones

 

His faithfulness

 

beautiful sunrises and sunsets--God really is an awesome artist

 

opportunities to serve others

 

Kind words

 

Grace

Thankful Thursday

 

It's that day of the week when I take a few moments to pause and reflect on the many blessings that have been poured into my life by a gracious and loving God.  He continues to invest Himself through His Spirit, molding me and conforming me to the image of His Son Jesus.  Tonight I praise Him for:

 

His righteousness and holiness

 

His wisdom

 

His creative nature

 

His patience

 

His delight in reconciling people to Himself

 

His invitation to be a part of serving others

 

His joy and peace

 

His protection

 

His discipline

 

His strength

 

His grace

 

All praise, honor, and devotion belong to Him who was and is and is to come.  The Almighty!

wisdom for husbands

 

He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord.  Prov.  18:22

 

     This verse gives me a principle around which a solid marriage relationship revolves.  I still remember the process God took me through quite a few years ago to bring me to the point of embracing this truth.  You see, in reading this chapter one day, I realized I didn't really believe this verse.  But I quickly figured out that if I wanted my marriage to endure and grow, I needed God to do a work in my heart.  I began to pray that day, first of all confessing to God my lack of belief, and then asking Him to bring me to a point of seeing my wife as an expression of His favor.  For a number of months I continued to make that request daily, affirming what God said and asking Him to help me accept it as true.  Because I lean toward being a bit hard headed, it took some time for transformation to occur, but God is faithful and He changed my heart.  As I looked back, one fact stood out to me.  Nothing had changed about my wife.  She continued to love me and encourage me; her actions and attitudes remained the same.  But my responses to her took a turn and my life has benefitted from that change.

 

     As I studied through Proverbs, searching for wisdom principles, a number of things stood out to me.  At first glance, they may not appear to address a husband's behavior, but I think God uses direct and indirect means of communication in pushing me toward truth.

 

     I need to promote an atmosphere of peace in my marriage.

          "He who troubles his own house will inherit the wind...11:29a

          "Better is a little with the fear of the Lord, than great treasure and turmoil with it. 15:16

          "Better is a dish of vegetables where love is, than a fattened ox and hatred with it. 15:17

          "Better is a dry morsel and quietness with it than a house full of feasting with strife. 17:1

Do I contribute a fear of the Lord, quietness, and love through my words and actions or do the things I say and the actions I take bring strife, turmoil, and trouble on my relationship with my wife.  These verses give a picture of God's desire for my home.  Does it line up with reality? If not, I have some work in front of me.

 

     Two verses out of chapter 21 refer to a contentious woman and the unpleasantness of living with her.  Although each of us bears responsibility for our actions and attitude, I believe as a husband I have an ability to impact my wife and keep her from moving in the direction of becoming contentious.  I have a calling to build trust in my relationship with my wife.  When I do that, she will be less likely to be combative and disagreeable.  How well I fill my role as a husband can be seen on my wife's countenance.

 

     Chapter 31 describes an excellent wife.  Two places in this chapter talk about the husband's role in promoting his wife's virtue.

          "An excellent wife, who can fine?  For her worth is far above jewels.  The heart of her husband trusts in her...vv. 10,11a

          "Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her, saying: 'Many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all.' " vv. 28,29

One of the most important things for me to remember is that my wife needs to hear words of affirmation and praise from me.  She wants to know that I trust her and appreciate all that she contributes to the health of our relationship.  If I want a wife who demonstrates virtue and excellence, I must treat her as a valuable jewel.

 

The last nugget of wisdom I find for husbands in Proverbs centers around faithfulness.  I must honor my commitment to my wife, and guard my eyes and my heart from other women.  This comes out strongly in chapters 5&6.  Temptation toward unfaithfulness surrounds us.  It abounds in our culture, in the media, in entertainment and advertisement.  But 4:23 says, "Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life."  Guarding my heart shows my wife that my commitment to faithfulness has not wavered, and contributes to the trust factor tremendously.

 

I want to grow as a husband.  Heeding these wisdom truths will help me along that path.

         

       

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thankful Thursday

 

It's been a full week.  Many responsibilities, frequent changes in planning, unforeseen opportunities.  In the midst of it all, I have a God who remains the same; ever faithful, trustworthy, powerful, and loving.  He alone deserves my praise and devotion.  He inhabits the praises of His people.  I offer Him my gratitude today for:

 

prayer

 

storms

 

night

 

quiet

 

friends

 

conversations

 

health

 

His word

 

time

 

strolling and talking with my wife

 

patience

 

completed jobs

 

grace



Wisdom in Parenting

 

Behold, children are a gift of the Lord; the fruit of the womb is a reward. Ps. 127:3

 

 

At the start of this discussion on parenting, I need to embrace the truth of this verse.  Do I accept my children as a gift from the Lord?  Do I see them as His blessing in my life?  In the everydayness of life with kids, this truth must remain in the forefront of my mind.  There will be times when my kids test my patience, frustrate me, and even make decisions I may wish they wouldn't.  These times will accompany times when they bring joy and encourage me.  But no matter which circumstance I find myself in, the truth doesn't change.  Regardless of their actions or attitudes, children come from God as a reward.

 

Many verses in Proverbs address my role as a father.  I want to share four principles that caught my attention in my study. 

     1) I need to give instruction to my children.
This comes through in a number of ways.
Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and do not forsake your mother's teaching.  Indeed they are a graceful wreath to your head, and ornaments about your neck.  1:8,9
For whom the Lord loves He reproves, even as a father, the son in whom he delights.  3:12
Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.  22:6
The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child who gets his own way brings shame to his mother.  Correct your son, and he will give you comfort, he will also delight your soul.  29:15,17
These verses show the importance of speaking truth into the lives of my children.  This benefits both them and me.

     2) I need to practice what I preach and lead by example.
I have directed you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in upright paths.  4:11
A righteous man who walks in his integrity--how blessed are his sons after him.  20:7
My children benefit from me investing time in them; walking through life with them, and demonstrating how to walk in right paths.  It blesses them when I live by the principles I teach them.

     3) I have a responsibility to provide for my family.
A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children...13:22a
House and wealth are an inheritance from fathers...19:14a
Know well the condition of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds; for riches are not forever, nor does a crown endure to all generations.  When the grass disappears, the new growth is seen, and the herbs of the mountains are gathered in, the lambs will be for your clothing, and the goats will bring the price of a field, and there will be goats' milk enough for your food, for the food of your household, and sustenance for your maidens.  27:23-27
These verses challenge me.  How do I balance caring for my family, meeting their needs, and responding to other needs around the world?  Can I build up my bank account so that I have money to leave behind when there are people around me starving?  The verses in chapter 27 tell me the importance of keeping track of my financial condition.  In this way I measure the resources available for my family's day to day provision.

     4) I must speak positive words to my children.
The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, and he who begets a wise son will be glad in him.  23:24
Not only do my kids need to hear instruction from me, but they need to know I notice when they make right choices and hear my words of approval.

The challenges of parenting come in many forms.  I rejoice that God invites me to ask for wisdom, and promises to give it generously.

Thankful Thursday

 

 

It's not quite Thursday anymore, but this practice of intentionally expressing gratitude to God isn't limited to a specific time, and the conversations that kept me from posting before the clock struck midnight are one of the things I am thankful for.

 

Friends and family

 

Truth

 

God's mercies that are new every morning

 

His patience with me as I seek to obey and stumble at times

 

Campfires

 

the beauty of the night sky

 

Work that I can enjoy

 

Sweat

 

safety on the road (something I often take for granted)

 

The cross of Christ

 

Music

 

Sleep--the refreshment it brings

 

Grace

Wisdom in our Speech--part 2

 

Death and life are in the power of the tongue...Prov. 18:21a

 

Last time I gave you a glimpse into what I learned about how and when to speak as I studied through Proverbs.  Today I want to share with you my observations about the importance of the content of my words when it comes to exercising wisdom and righteousness.

 

These verses capture the scope of this study and emphasize two significant factors.

     The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. 16:1

     He who guards his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from troubles. 21:23

First, God desires to shape my speech.  If I allow Him to, He will put His words in my mouths.  This insures that what I say will be correct.  Secondly, the words I speak carry such importance, choosing them requires diligence.  This guarding of my words not only benefits those who hear them, but it also protects my own soul.

 

I see two contrasts given throughout the book concerning what flows from my mouth.  Life vs. death, and truth vs. lies.  Prov. 18:21a, which I've chosen as the keystone verse for the study brings out the contrast of life vs. death, and throughout the book it is developed.

     10:11,21a--The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence...The lips of the righteous feed many...

     11:9,11--With his mouth the godless man destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous will be delivered.  By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is torn down.

     12:6,18--The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the mouth of the upright will deliver them.  There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

     13:3--The one who guards his mouth preserves his life; the one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.

     15:7--A soothing tongue is a tree of life, but perversion in it crushes the spirit.

     25:13--Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest is a faithful messenger to those who send him, for he refreshes the soul of his masters.

 

Consider these verses in the contrast between truth and lies:

     4:24a--Put away from you a deceitful mouth...

     8:6,7--Listen, for I will speak noble things; and the opening of my lips will reveal right things.  For my mouth will utter truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.

     12:17--He who speaks truth tells what is right, but a false witness, deceit.

     13:5a--A righteous man hates falsehood...

     17:7--Excellent speech is not fitting for a fool, much less are lying lips to a prince.

     25:14--Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of his gifts falsely

 

I want wisdom to mark my speech.  If it does, my words will bring life and healing; they will proclaim truth to those who hear. 

 

Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.  Ps. 141:3 

Thankful Thursday

Sometimes the simple activity of slowing down and reflecting helps put things back in perspective.  There are countless things for which gratitude should flow from my heart and lips.  Included in my list this week are:

The everlasting love of God

 

Prayer--the open door to communication with God

 

Water

 

My Redeemer

 

Friends

 

Our home--a place of refuge for our family and for others God allows us to share it with

 

Allison, Abigail, and Adam--three of God's richest blessings in my life

 

Renewed strength

 

The Cross

 

Time--every moment is a gift from God--am I using it wisely?

 

Grace

Belated Thankful Thursday

Sometimes the distractions of life keep me from doing the important things.  I don't know about anyone else, but I can easily get caught up in unimportant and useless activity at times.  So for today I'm very thankful for

 

God's patience with me

 

His mercies that are new every morning and are the basis of my salvation

 

God's faithfulness--He never changes

 

His word--a lamp for my feet and a light for my path

 

Rain

 

new growth

 

my wife--the expression of God's favor on me

 

music--an avenue for worship

 

forgiveness

 

grace

Wisdom in Our Speech

 

Death and life are in the power of the tongue

Prov.18:21a

 

 

That's a strong statement.  It has far reaching implications.  It means I must decide what I will use my words for.  I have two options.  Either I speak words that build others up and better their lives, or I use my words to tear them down and bring death to relationships.

 

As I studied through the book of Proverbs, I noticed three things relating to my speech.  I saw that what I say indicates whether I prove myself foolish or wise.  But along with that, I observed that when I speak and how I communicate also factor into the equation. 

 

In regard to how I speak, words like gently, soothing, soft, pleasant, and sweet were used to describe wisdom in communication.

     15:1 "A gentle answer turns away wrath..."

     15:4 "A soothing tongue is a tree of life..."

     16:21 "...sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness."

     16:24 "Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."

     25:15 "...a soft tongue breaks the bone."

These verses emphasize the benefit of making a conscious choice about how I use my words, the tone of what I say carries as much weight as the actual words.

 

As for when to speak, Proverbs also gives some clear instruction.

     15:28 "The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer..."

     17:27,28 "He who restrains his words has knowledge...Even a fool when he keeps silent, is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is considered prudent."

     18:13 "He who gives an answer before he hears, it is folly and shame to him."

     23:9 "Do not speak in the hearing of a fool..."

     25:11 "Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a word spoken in right circumstances."

     29:20 "Do you see a man who is hasty in his words?  There is more hope for a fool than for him."

     31:8 "Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all the unfortunate."

I see that when I open my mouth and when I don't say anything both communicate something about my level of wisdom.  These verses contain a call to caution in speaking.  I need to take time to respond rather than hastily blurting out words.  They instruct me to consider the people around me as a determination of whether to speak or not.  And they communicate that I must speak up when I see those less fortunate than me suffering.

 

Next time I will get into the dynamics of what I am instructed to say.

    



Thankful Thursday

Gratitude is sadly missing in our culture today.  Everybody wants something, expects something, but expressing appreciation for what we do receive has become more and more the exception rather than the rule.  God instructs us to always give thanks.  In every situation we find ourselves thanksgiving is possible.  What's keeping me from saying those two words--Thank You?

For today, I want to take a few moments to reflect on the gifts from above for which God deserves praise.

God's peace and abiding presence

 

His renewing of strength as I wait on Him

 

Warm weather

 

A new roof on our house, and the 16 or so people who helped make it possible

 

A challenging job

 

An encouraging boss

 

Opportunities to share God's truth

 

Yoyo

 

Growing relationships

 

Music

 

Time to hang out with my family

 

Grace

Thankful Thursday

 

 

Prayer

 

A steady job

 

God's faithfulness

 

Rest

 

Music

 

Challenging conversations

 

Smiles

 

God's word-truth for all times

 

Anticipation

 

Family

 

Seeing God conducting the symphony of our lives

 

Food

 

Neighbors

 

Grace

The Value of Wisdom

     What price do I put on wisdom?  Will I make sacrifices to obtain it?  How do I view its impact on my life?
     "How blessed is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding.  For its profit is better than the profit of silver, and its gain than fine gold.  She is more precious than jewels; and nothing you desire compares with her."  Prov. 3:13-15
     Do I agree with this statement?  Does my life reflect this kind of devotion to obtaining wisdom?  The last line of this passage hits me hard.  Nothing I desire compares with wisdom!  In another passage it says that nothing that is desirable can compare with wisdom.  That doesn't leave much room for argument.  Wisdom trumps everything.  It meets my needs more than money ever could.
     Why?  What gives wisdom its value?  I find four things as I read through Proverbs that result from pursuing wisdom.  I'll call them benefits.  First, if I seek after wisdom, it brings security.  I can walk confidently and without fear if I have wisdom as my companion.  (1:33a; 3:23; 14:3)  Also, having wisdom brings me favor with others. I receive honor when I act wisely.  (4:8,9; 14:35; 17:2)  Another benefit of wisdom shows itself in increasing the quality of my life.  When I walk in the way of wisdom, I truly live.  (8:35; 15:24)  Lastly, even though wisdom is more valuable than gold or silver, scripture indicates that wisdom has the potential to bring riches.  I would tend to think the wealth spoken of goes beyond mere monetary gain, but I can't deny that it does involve financial betterment.  (8:17-21)
     So I have a choice.  Will I agree with God and embrace the value of wisdom, or will I continue to lean on my own understanding?  Knowing the truth, why do I struggle with this decision?  I may have more foolishness in me than I care to admit.

Thankful Thursday

 

 

Praising God today for:

 

Answered prayer

 

Warm weather

 

Growing relationships

 

Beautiful view of sunsets from our back yard

 

His direction when I'm totally confused (which some say is most of the time)

 

Two eyes

 

Water

 

Peace that only He can bring

 

His word--the guide book for living

 

Trustworthy friends

 

Grace

The Source of Wisdom

    How would you respond to the question, "If you wanted to increase in wisdom, where would you look, and what steps would you take?"
     We read in James 3:13-18 about two types of wisdom: earthly, natural, demonic wisdom vs. wisdom from above.  I won't type out these verses here, but you can look them up to see the contrast given.  Any discussion about wisdom's source requires first of all an identification of which wisdom one is looking for.  Searching for wisdom may take different forms, but at the heart of the matter I must define where I want my quest to lead me.  These verses begin with the question, "Who among you is wise and understanding?"  Would I place myself in that category?  If so, why?  What identifies me as either a wise or foolish person?
     We see this contrast between wisdom and foolishness in Paul's first letter to the Corinthians.  In chapter 1 he gives a discourse in verses 18-25 starting out with this proclamation, "For the word of the cross is to those who are perishing foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."  And he follows this up in chapter 3:18-21 with additional comments regarding this contrast.  Part of this passage says, "For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God."  So I face this decision:  Will I pursue the wisdom of man and become foolish in God's eyes, or will I choose to embrace God's wisdom and in the process risk looking foolish to family and friends and others within my sphere of influence?
     We read multiple places in scripture, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom..." (Ps. 111:10, Prov. 1:7;9:10, Job 28:28)  On the flip side, the psalmist says, "The fool has said in his heart, 'There is no God.' "  Ps. 14:1a  I recognize the tension here.  I either see God and give Him the reverence He deserves, or I discount Him.  One path leads to wisdom, the other to folly.
     God invites us through His apostle James, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him."  I willingly acknowledge my lack of wisdom on many levels.  God does not look down on me for this admission, but responds out of His generosity with provision.  "in [Christ] are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."  Col. 2:3  "And [God] shall be the stability of your times, a wealth of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is his treasure."  Is. 33:6 
     I conclude with this thought.  God is the source of wisdom.  When I give Him the reverence He deserves, my own lack of wisdom reveals itself.  And taking Him at His word gives me confidence to ask for Him to fill that void from His infinite storehouse. 
    

Thankful Thursday

 

 

Friends who pray...and a God who responds

 

Challenging situations that provide opportunities for growth

 

Smiles

 

A loving wife

 

The cross of Christ

 

Forgiveness

 

Campfires in the backyard

 

The gifts and abilities God has given and open doors to use them to serve others

 

Time

 

My Shepherd

 

Faithfulness

 

Grace