Tag: psalms

His Incorruptible Counsel and His Comfort. “I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; and in the night also my heart instructs me.” Psalm 16:7-8

Psalm 16:7-8 Authorized (King James) Version

7 I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel:
my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.
8 I have set the Lord always before me:
because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

Where is your focus? 

Psalm 16:7-11 Easy-to-Read Version

7 I praise the Lord because he taught me well.
    Even at night he put his instructions deep inside my mind.[a]

8 I always remember that the Lord is with me.[b]
    He is here, close by my side,
    so nothing can defeat me.
9 So my heart and soul will be very happy.
    Even my body will live in safety,
10 because you will not leave me in the place of death.
    You will not let your faithful one rot in the grave.
11 You will teach me the right way to live.
    Just being with you will bring complete happiness.
    Being at your right side will make me happy forever.

I absolutely love how this verse starts: “I keep my eyes always on the Lord.”

Must we ask why?

Why does this verse start with these words?

As we read deeper, further in the passage we see the result of keeping our eyes on the Lord. Let’s take a moment or two look at what happens when we do this.

He is our strength.  “With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.”

The Word tells us in Psalm 61:3,

“For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe.”

Also we see his strength in our lives in Psalm 28:7 

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.”

When we keep our eyes focused on the Lord, He is always with us.

Regardless of the  battles we may be facing, He is our strength.

With Him by our side, we will not be shaken.

We can rest in complete assurance that He is with us in all situations.

Even in our thought life.

Even at night while I am sleeping.

Have you ever had something come rushing into your mind that gave you fear, frustration, anxiety, or anger?

These things are not from the Lord.

These are things the enemy uses as a strategy to shake us up.

You see, Satan knows that if we take our eyes off the things of the Lord, then our eyes will be focused on what he has distracted us to see.

The Lord says that we should focus on,

“whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9)

When we remember to direct our focus our eyes, think of Him, we have peace.

We have joy. We will not be shaken.

He gives us joy and He is faithful. 

Verse 9 states, 

“Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.”

As we just read in Philippians, we will have joy and peace, and we can rest when our eyes are focused on God. 

He takes delight in us and views us as His perfect and most beautiful creation.

He is faithful to the maximum (As God knows the word) to us, is always with us.

We see His goodness in Zephaniah 3:17

“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” 

This beautiful time with the Lord is what the enemy wants to steal from you.

How can you stay in this place of perfect peace?

A place where you have lasting joy, no matter your situation?

The answer is simply by moving your eyes, putting your focus on Him always. 

He gives us direction and all eternal pleasures! 

“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence,  with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

What a way to end this passage!

By keeping our eyes on the Lord, we can know the path of life, we are filled with joy and His eternal pleasures!

No wonder the enemy would love for us to take our eyes off the Lord. 

My prayer for you today is that you turn your eyes and your focus to Jesus.

That you combat anything that the enemy of this world tries to use to distract you. I pray that you can truly remember the Lord’s protection and love for you. 

As you finish reading this blog entry, I would ask you to focus on the words in this next passage.

Psalm 121 Easy-to-Read Version

A song for going up to the Temple.

121 I look up to the hills,
    but where will my help really come from?
2 My help will come from the Lord,
    the Creator of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let you fall.
    Your Protector will not fall asleep.
4 Israel’s Protector does not get tired.
    He never sleeps.
5 The Lord is your Protector.
    The Lord stands by your side, shading and protecting you.
6 The sun cannot harm you during the day,
    and the moon cannot harm you at night.
7 The Lord will protect you from every danger.
    He will protect your soul.
8 The Lord will protect you as you come and go,[a]
    both now and forever!

This is His promise to you today.

He will absolutely see you 100% of the time!

He will absolutely give you 100% of His attention.

This is what He will give you when your eyes are on Him. 

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Psalm 27 Easy-to-Read Version

A song of David.

27 Lord, you are my Light and my Savior,
    so why should I be afraid of anyone?
The Lord is where my life is safe,
    so I will be afraid of no one!
2 Evil people might attack me.
    They might try to destroy my body.
Yes, my enemies might attack me and try to destroy me,
    but they will stumble and fall.
3 Even if an army surrounds me, I will not be afraid.
    Even if people attack me in war, I will trust in the Lord.

4 I ask only one thing from the Lord.
    This is what I want most:
Let me live in the Lord’s house all my life,
    enjoying the Lord’s beauty
    and spending time in his palace.[a]

5 He will protect me when I am in danger.
    He will hide me in his tent.[b]
    He will take me up to his place of safety.
6 If he will help me defeat the enemies around me,
    I will offer sacrifices in his tent with shouts of joy.
    I will sing and play songs to honor the Lord.

7 Lord, hear my voice.
    Be kind and answer me.
8 My heart told me to come to you, Lord,
    so I am coming to ask for your help.
9 Don’t turn away from me.
    Don’t be angry with your servant.
    You are the only one who can help me.
My God, don’t leave me all alone.
    You are my Savior.
10 Even if my mother and father leave me,
    the Lord will take me in.
11 I have enemies, Lord, so teach me your ways.
    Show me the right way to live.
12 My enemies have attacked me.
    They have told lies about me and have tried to hurt me.
13 But I really believe
    that I will see the Lord’s goodness before I die.[c]
14 Wait for the Lord’s help.
    Be strong and brave,
    and wait for the Lord’s help.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Anyone else feel like the only thing certain in this world is the certain uncertainty of our being changed? Isaiah 46:8-11 

Isaiah 46:8-11 New King James Version

8 “Remember this, and [a]show yourselves men;
Recall to mind, O you transgressors.
9 Remember the former things of old,
For I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like Me,
10 Declaring the end from the beginning,
And from ancient times things that are not yet done,
Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand,
And I will do all My pleasure,’
11 Calling a bird of prey from the east,
The man who executes My counsel, from a far country.
Indeed I have spoken it;
I will also bring it to pass.
I have purposed it;
I will also do it.

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

The certainty of change is unavoidable.

The certainty of our resistance to that change is likewise unavoidable.

The predictability of change almost never happens the way we expect it.

The predictability of our resistance to any unexpected change is always 1000%

Anyone else nowadays feel like the only thing certain in this world is the 100% uncertainty of change? Every time you think your feet are firmly planted with expectations and plans solidified; you suddenly find yourself in shifting sand.

It can be frustrating and downright exhausting to lose what appeared to be firm footing and, once again, trudge through the vast unknown. Especially in today’s unpredictable and constantly evolving world, we will wonder… is there no solid assurance we can cling to? Where is that predictability? Where is that security?

Proverbs 4:1-9 New King James Version

Security in Wisdom

4 Hear, my children, the instruction of a father,
And give attention to know understanding;
2 For I give you good doctrine:
Do not forsake my law.
3 When I was my father’s son,
Tender and the only one in the sight of my mother,
4 He also taught me, and said to me:
“Let your heart retain my words;
Keep my commands, and live.
5 Get wisdom! Get understanding!
Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth.
6 Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you;
Love her, and she will keep you.
7 Wisdom is the principal thing;
Therefore get wisdom.
And in all your getting, get understanding.
8 Exalt her, and she will promote you;
She will bring you honor, when you embrace her.
9 She will place on your head an ornament of grace;
A crown of glory she will deliver to you.”

Keep my Commands … and live … I am not perfect! and live? for how long? I know when I was born – my mother told me. But, date and time of my death?

Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth? Can I remember every lesson, every proverb that I was ever taught by my Mother and Father?

Therefore get wisdom … And in all your getting, get understanding. Somethings are miles beyond my ability to understand, somethings I will never understand.

I don’t know about you, for myself I long for the highest possible predictability and security – like, all the time – in my life. If I could always have it “my way,” very little would change. It’s not that I am completely opposed to the new and the next, progress has brought much good in my own life and in our world.

The issue is… change equals the unknown. And there is no guarantee of “safety” in the unknown. Perhaps change and uncertainty are too challenging for you as well. Even if you are more naturally adventurous, navigating a shift can still be difficult, especially if it feels like you are walking onward without a roadmap.

So much of what we hear or read today challenges our human ability to believe wholeheartedly in the concept of any absolute truth. Ideas and doctrines swirl around inciting doubt and mistrust of the One constant that remains immutable in the midst of all of the temporal. At times we can feel like we are stumbling and bumbling through the darkness with flailing arms outstretched grasping for light and direction. On what can we truly depend – The rising of the Sun?

While the winds of change may blow in any direction but our own, we can all remain securely tethered to our unchanging, eternal God.

He is “the Alpha and the Omega (the beginning and the end)… who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty,” (Revelation 1:8, NIV).

He “is the same yesterday and today and forever,” (Heb. 13:8, NIV). No matter what goes on in our lives or in this world, he does not change. Period.

He is not a man that he should lie. He does not change his mind (Numbers 23:19).

He, and he alone, is God. Though confusion in our world threatens to tear down any sense of certainty, we can trust that truth will prevail; truth that is outlined for us in, throughout the length and breadth and depths of the Word of God.

Through this text, we believe not only in words written on a page, but in he who penned them.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:1-5, NIV.

There is nothing in all of creation that was made without him.

He is our beacon of light that shines through the shadows.

He has been here since the beginning and he will be here through the end.

From the most ancient times to things yet to come, he will forever remain our unchanging God. With this assurance, I pray you can know while uncertainty and change will remain this side of heaven, there is One who will never change.

He is our firm foundation.

He sees you all of the time. (Psalm 139)

He cares for you all the time. (Psalm 23)

You can stand secure and upright in the most unpredictable of shifting sands. (Psalm 121)

Intersecting Faith & Life:

Do you ever find yourself struggling through unexpected changes or wildly shifting sinking quicksand?

When you feel lost and confused, where do you go for clarity, understanding?

After reading today’s devotional, can you see how often our God reveals his character to us?

Why do you think and believe there are so many statements about God’s nature and attributes in the Bible?

What is he trying to tell us?

How does understanding his promise to remain unchanging, grant you assurance of his faithfulness in this life?

Take some quality time today to write down a few scriptures that declare the truth of who God is so when unexpected transitions occur, or doubts arise, you can remember, pray over that firmly communicates He is your firm foundation.

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Psalm 46 Authorized (King James) Version

Psalm 46

To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth.

1 God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed,
and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
3 though the waters thereof roar and be troubled,
though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.
4 There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God,
the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.
5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved:
God shall help her, and that right early.
6 The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved:
he uttered his voice, the earth melted.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
what desolations he hath made in the earth.
9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth;
he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder;
he burneth the chariot in the fire.

10 Be still, and know that I am God:
I will be exalted among the heathen,
I will be exalted in the earth.
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

Trauma Unknowable; Living in and Passing through, Surviving, Grieving though the Devastation, Destruction, of the Raging Fires. Ceaseless Prayer. Psalm 91:14-16.

Psalm 91 Complete Jewish Bible

91 You who live in the shelter of ‘Elyon,
who spend your nights in the shadow of Shaddai,
2 who say to Adonai, “My refuge! My fortress!
My God, in whom I trust!” —
3 he will rescue you from the trap of the hunter
and from the plague of calamities;
4 he will cover you with his pinions,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his truth is a shield and protection.

5 You will not fear the terrors of night
or the arrow that flies by day,
6 or the plague that roams in the dark,
or the scourge that wreaks havoc at noon.
7 A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand;
but it won’t come near you.
8 Only keep your eyes open,
and you will see how the wicked are punished.

9 For you have made Adonai, the Most High,
who is my refuge, your dwelling-place.
10 No disaster will happen to you,
no calamity will come near your tent;
11 for he will order his angels to care for you
and guard you wherever you go.
12 They will carry you in their hands,
so that you won’t trip on a stone.
13 You will tread down lions and snakes,
young lions and serpents you will trample underfoot.
14 “Because he loves me, I will rescue him;
because he knows my name, I will protect him.
15 He will call on me, and I will answer him.
I will be with him when he is in trouble.
I will extricate him and bring him honor.
16 I will satisfy him with long life
and show him my salvation.”

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

The news and images emerging from the fires in California are hard to believe.

Skies have turned red, filled with hug clouds of smoke over cities and counties as Santa Anna winds 80-100 mph is fueling multiple wildfires across the state.

As the governor declares a state of emergency, families are evacuating to escape the flames, knowing they may never see their homes again. 10000 ++ structures have already burned down Livelihoods, businesses are being lost as firefighters and first responders do everything in their power to stop the spread of the fires.

At least 12 individuals have been killed with more to be accounted for as Cadaver dogs are brought in to begin their gruesome work as a dark result of these fires, while 200,000 citizens are without power and 180,000 have evacuated the area.

Approximately 35,000 acres have burned thus far and several of these fires are barely considered even “10% contained – one is not contained. These numbers will doubtless go up as these 75000 brave first responders are actively working to contain the fires and prevent them from spreading to more neighborhoods. 

As you follow the news, we can do relatively little but continually lift up these in prayers for the state of California, for the first responders with their lives on the lines, for the recovery, for the victims experiencing such trauma, sudden loss.

Suffering after a disaster can seem isolating, lonely, traumatic seeing that many, even in our own communities, may not comprehend, understand what they are experiencing there. With this feeling can come a sense of hopelessness.

While feeling distraught, Psalm 34:8 reminds us where to find hope, “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.”

Gratefully, God is very present in our situations, riding out the storms with us and being there for us afterward.

As 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 describes, we have a God who understands and is compassionate towards us in our suffering:

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

God understands our suffering beyond what we can comprehend.

He walks side by side with us through it with us and brings us out on the other side stronger. 

Psalm 23:4 Complete Jewish Bible

4 Even if I pass through death-dark ravines,
I will fear no disaster; for you are with me;
your rod and staff reassure me.

Isaiah 43:1-2 Complete Jewish Bible

43 But now this is what Adonai says,
he who created you, Ya‘akov,
he who formed you, Isra’el:
“Don’t be afraid, for I have redeemed you;
I am calling you by your name; you are mine.
2 When you pass through water, I will be with you;
when you pass through rivers, they will not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire, you will not be scorched —
the flame will not burn you.

1 Peter 5:10 further explains,

“And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”

Even more so, He loves us through each and every distress, not letting anything come between us during these hardcore difficult, traumatic times. He does not leave us in our suffering, going through it alone or figuring it out on our own. 

As the Apostle Paul spells out clearly in Romans 8:39-40, 

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Likewise, afterward, even in the worst situations,

God assures us:

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9).

For those who are presently experiencing, who have experienced disasters, the recovery time afterward can be hardcore excruciating, yet God urges in Psalm 27:14 to “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”

But waiting to see God’s goodness after a disaster can seem endless at times.

Still, He wants us to cling to the promise of His everlasting hope that He alone gives, looking for and expecting His goodness, His Shalom, again in our lives.

Isaiah 25:9 Complete Jewish Bible

9 On that day they will say,
“See! This is our God!
We waited for him to save us.
This is Adonai ; we put our hope in him.
We are full of joy, so glad he saved us!”

Although it may take us a while to tune in and hear those crickets and the birds singing and see the sun shining again, we can move ahead, even if it’s with the very tiniest of tiny baby steps, looking to see His goodness in the coming days.

After disasters, there is the hope and promise that God’s goodness will come again and follows us through this life.

As Psalm 23:6 assures, “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

For many, there will be a time of looking back after walking through the tragic events which often brings a hard fought answer to your prayers for clarity, and pleas for the Shalom of Shalom’s where they are able to see more clearly God’s faithfulness and goodness, even though at those times they may have felt there was none to be found among the great mountains of ash and burned buildings.

In these moments of everyday revelation, there will certainly, and faithfully be a divine display, miraculous abundant revelations of His divinely orchestrated “aha” moments where Psalm 116:12 rings true for them: “What shall I return to the Lord for all His goodness to me?”

Psalm 116:12-14 Complete Jewish Bible

12 How can I repay Adonai
for all his generous dealings with me?
13 I will raise the cup of salvation
and call on the name of Adonai.
14 I will pay my vows to Adonai
in the presence of all his people.

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Father, we come to You with heavy hearts as wildfires rage and devastation spreads. We know that You are sovereign over all things, and we trust in Your wisdom even in the midst of chaos. Lord, we pray for the leadership across affected areas to make the best possible decisions for the safety and welfare of communities. Guide their steps with wisdom and urgency as they navigate these challenging circumstances, and may they look to You for strength and clarity.

Father, we lift up the firefighters, first responders, and all those risking their lives to protect others. Cover them with Your protection, give them endurance, and guide their efforts. May their bravery and selflessness reflect Your love and care in the face of such terrifying destruction.

We pray for the communities impacted by these fires—families who have lost homes, businesses, and loved ones. Comfort them in their grief and provide for their immediate needs. Stir up a spirit of unity and compassion among neighbors, that they may support and uplift one another. Protect the most vulnerable and provide shelter, safety, and peace amidst the fear and uncertainty.

Lord, we ask for Your Spirit to pour out over the land, calming the winds and rains, and bringing relief to the fires. May You be recognized and trusted even in this time of tragedy. Remind us of Your goodness and faithfulness, even when it feels hard to see.

God, we pray for peace to overcome fear, and faith to rise above despair. May those nearest to the danger feel Your presence and guiding hand. Let the hope and strength that only come from Your Son, Jesus, through Your Holy Spirit, bring comfort and assurance in the face of devastation.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

Psalm 46 New American Standard Bible

God, the Refuge of His People.

For the music director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah, [a]set to Alamoth. A Song.

46 God is our refuge and strength,
A [b]very ready help in [c]trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth shakes
And the mountains slip into the heart of the [d]sea;
3 Though its waters roar and foam,
Though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah

4 There is a river whose streams make the city of God happy,
The holy dwelling places of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved;
God will help her [e]when morning dawns.
6 The [f]nations made an uproar, the kingdoms tottered;
He [g]raised His voice, the earth quaked.
7 The Lord of armies is with us;
The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
[h]Who has inflicted horrific events on the earth.
9 He makes wars to cease to the end of the earth;
He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;
He burns the chariots with fire.
10 “[i]Stop striving and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the [j]nations, I will be exalted on the earth.”
11 The Lord of armies is with us;
The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

https://translate.google.com/

God, the New Year Cometh; So please teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of truest Brevity of Life, grow in thy wisdom. Psalm 90:12

Psalm 90 New American Standard Bible 1995

BOOK 4

God’s Eternity and Man’s Transitoriness.

A Prayer of [a]Moses, the man of God.

90 Lord, You have been our [b]dwelling place in all generations.
2 Before the mountains were born
[c]Or You gave birth to the earth and the world,
Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.

3 You turn man back into dust
And say, “Return, O children of men.”
4 For a thousand years in Your sight
Are like yesterday when it passes by,
[d]Or as a watch in the night.
5 You have [e]swept them away like a flood, they [f]fall asleep;
In the morning they are like grass which [g]sprouts anew.
6 In the morning it flourishes and [h]sprouts anew;
Toward evening it fades and withers away.

7 For we have been consumed by Your anger
And by Your wrath we have been [i]dismayed.
8 You have placed our iniquities before You,
Our secret sins in the light of Your presence.
9 For all our days have declined in Your fury;
We have finished our years like a [j]sigh.
10 As for the days of our [k]life, [l]they contain seventy years,
Or if due to strength, eighty years,
Yet their pride is but labor and sorrow;
For soon it is gone and we fly away.
11 Who [m]understands the power of Your anger
And Your fury, according to the fear [n]that is due You?
12 So teach us to number our days,
That we may [o]present to You a heart of wisdom.

13 Do return, O Lord; how long will it be?
And [p]be sorry for Your servants.
14 O satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness,
That we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
15 Make us glad [q]according to the days You have afflicted us,
And the years we have seen [r]evil.
16 Let Your work appear to Your servants
And Your majesty [s]to their children.
17 Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us;
And [t]confirm for us the work of our hands;
Yes, [u]confirm the work of our hands.

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

What does brevity mean?

: shortness of duration. especially : shortness or conciseness of expression.

What is brevity of a person?

the brevity of human life. the quality of expressing much in few words; terseness: Ironically, it is long-winded Polonius in Shakespeare’s Hamlet who famously says that brevity is the soul of wit.

Is brevity a good thing?

Maybe that’s why William Shakespeare said, “Brevity is the soul of wit.” One thing I know is brevity is powerful. People who can speak or write concisely and to the point are more successful.

Is brevity positive or negative?

Brevity rails against the non-essential, against filling time, against boredom, against self- indulgent long-windedness and against agonizing repetition.

Brevity guards against overconsumption and waste as brevity can be applied to space and things, as well as time. Brevity is economy.

Is brevity a skill?

Brevity is rare because it takes both skill and effort to simplify the complex.

It’s easier to remain ethereal, vague, and ambiguous than it is to communicate with purpose and clarity.

Or, I would have written a shorter sermon if God had given me the time.

Life is filled with “once in a lifetime” opportunities, but the big question is what we do with them when they present themselves? Do we so casually let them slip by, saying, “Maybe next time (if there is one). There is always another day”? Or, do we a John 3:16 moment seize them? Love them like God loved us, have a few more “come to Jesus” moments as we may not have as much time as we think?

Theologian Dr. Leslie Weatherhead calculated the average length of a life using the hours of 1 day to illustrate the importance of recognizing the value of time.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leslie_Weatherhead

He concluded that if your age is 15, the time is 10:25 a.m. If your age is 20, the time is 11:34. If your age is 25, the time is 12:42 p.m. If you’re 30, the time is 1:51. If you’re 35, the time is 3:00. If you’re 40 the time is 4:08. At age 45, the time is 5:15. If you’re 50, the time is 6:25. By age 55, the time is 7:24. If you’re 60, the time is 8:42. If you’re 65, the time is 9:51. And if you’re 70 the time is 11 p.m.

Psalm 90:12 reminds us, “Teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts to wisdom” (NKJV). Or as the Living Bible puts it, “Teach us to number our days and recognize how few they are; help us to spend them as we should.”

Ephesians 5:15 says, “So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise” (NLT).

Paul wrote, “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must fully honor God with your body” (1 Corinthians 6:19–20 NLT).

Jesus said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23 NLT).

This doesn’t mean that we must take a vow of poverty. It simply means we that we ultimately recognize that it 100% all belongs to God. Our lives belong to God. Our families belong to God. All our possessions belong to God. Everything is his.

So, in the coming year of 2025, make your chief New Years resolution to take what God has given to you and do the most that you can with it for his glory.

Remind yourself; God can do a lot with a little. If you don’t believe me, just ask the boy with the five loaves and two fish who gave everything he had to Jesus. It didn’t seem like a lot, but Jesus used them to feed a hungry thousands. Jesus can take a little, bless it and multiply it. He can use it beyond our wildest dreams.

Seizing upon our God Opportunity: “God, Do teach me to “Number My Days”” 

Psalm 139:23-24 Amplified Bible

23 
Search me [thoroughly], O God, and know my heart;
Test me and know my anxious thoughts;
24 
And see if there is any wicked or hurtful way in me,
And lead me in the everlasting way.

If we will earnestly and fervently pray, humble ourselves, take what we have and offer it to God, if we will be willing to do what He has placed before us and be faithful in the little things, then we can trust He will give us more to do.

I would rather try and fail than never try at all.

Any time you take a chance, you can fail. But it’s better to try than to never take chances and never have anything happen in your life.

So seize the day. Seize the moment. Seize the opportunities before you.

Don’t put it off too long, because you may not have as much time as you think.

Be motivated, be productive, be resolute with your life. Resolve to be productive with your time, talents, ministries. Seize the opportunities God has given you.

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 The Message

There’s a Right Time for Everything

3 There’s an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything on the earth:

2-8 A right time for birth and another for death,
A right time to plant and another to reap,
A right time to kill and another to heal,
A right time to destroy and another to construct,
A right time to cry and another to laugh,
A right time to lament and another to cheer,
A right time to make love and another to abstain,
A right time to embrace and another to part,
A right time to search and another to count your losses,
A right time to hold on and another to let go,
A right time to rip out and another to mend,
A right time to shut up and another to speak up,
A right time to love and another to hate,
A right time to wage war and another to make peace.

9-13 But in the end, does it really make a difference what anyone does? I’ve had a good look at what God has given us to do—busywork, mostly. True, God made everything beautiful in itself and in its time—but he’s left us in the dark, so we can never know what God is up to, whether he’s coming or going. I’ve decided that there’s nothing better to do than go ahead and have a good time and get the most we can out of life. That’s it—eat, drink, and make the most of your job. It’s God’s gift.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

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How Well do we grasp Struggling and Surrendering unto God is the hardest part of the Christian faith? Psalm 57

Psalm 57 Complete Jewish Bible

57 (0) For the leader. Set to “Do Not Destroy.” By David, a mikhtam, when he fled from Sha’ul into the cave:

2 (1) Show me favor, God, show me favor;
for in you I have taken refuge.
Yes, I will find refuge in the shadow of your wings
until the storms have passed.
3 (2) I call to God, the Most High,
to God, who is accomplishing his purpose for me.

4 (3) He will send from heaven and save me
when those who would trample me down mock me. (Selah)
God will send his grace and his truth.

5 (4) I am surrounded by lions,
I am lying down among people breathing fire,
men whose teeth are spears and arrows
and their tongues sharp-edged swords.

6 (5) Be exalted, God, above heaven!
May your glory be over all the earth!
7 (6) They prepared a snare for my feet,
but I am bending over [to avoid it].
They dug a pit ahead of me,
but they fell into it themselves. (Selah)

8 (7) My heart is steadfast, God, steadfast.
I will sing and make music.
9 (8) Awake, my glory! Awake, lyre and lute!
I will awaken the dawn.

10 (9) I will thank you, Adonai, among the peoples;
I will make music to you among the nations.
11 (10) For your grace is great, all the way to heaven,
and your truth, all the way to the skies.

12 (11) Be exalted, God, above heaven!
May your glory be over all the earth!

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

continually surrender to God when a blank canvas is before you. 

2 (1) Show me favor, God, show me favor;
for in you I have taken refuge.
Yes, I will find refuge in the shadow of your wings
until the storms have passed.
3 (2) I call to God, the Most High,
to God, who is accomplishing his purpose for me.

Surrendering to God is an indelible, unavoidable part of the Christian faith.

We know because countless times Scripture reminds us of our need to repent, turn from sin, crucify selfish desires, so we may be attuned to the will of God.

Surrender isn’t just a “one and done” common struggle people face when fully engaged in their trusting of God in the beginning of their faith, but as they grow and experience the most diverse trials, and develop in their walk with Him too. 

While many of us would like the apparent ease of “raising their arms or falling to their knees” surrendering to be a one-and-done phenomenon, it just isn’t.

Surrender is something required day after day.

It’s a continual, progressive, and life-long sacrificial pursuit of chipping away at our hyper graffitied self until all that’s left is Christ and His desires for us. 

To understand surrender, we have to biblically define the task itself: Letting go of our over active self control, yielding to God’s purposes—no matter the cost.

Understanding Surrender to God 

In Mere Christianity, writer, scholar, and theologian C.S. Lewis pens these words:

“Christ says ‘Give me All. I don’t want so much of your time, and so much of your money and so much of your work: I want You. I have not come to torment your natural self, but to kill it. No half-measures are any good. . . Hand over the whole natural self, all the desires which you think innocent as well as the ones you think wicked–the whole outfit. I will give you a new self instead. In fact, I will give you Myself: my own will shall become yours.’”

In Psalms 57:2, the King James Version reads:

“I will cry unto God most high; unto God that performeth all things for me.”

This verse, attributed to David as the author, is a heartfelt plea to God for help and protection. In this verse, David acknowledges the sovereignty and power of God, expresses his ‘white flag’ trust and dependence on Him in times of trouble.

The theme of trust and reliance on God is central to this verse.

David, who often found himself in perilous situations throughout his life, regularly turned to God for guidance and protection.

In this verse, he affirms his faith in God as the “most high” and the one who “performeth all things” for him.

This demonstrates David’s unwavering confidence in God’s ability to intervene, work His healing on his behalf, no matter what circumstances he may be facing.

The context of this verse is crucial to understanding its significance. David composed this psalm while fleeing from King Saul, who was seeking to kill him.

Despite being in a perilous situation, David’s focus remains on God and his unwavering faith in His ability to save and deliver him.

This psalm serves as a reminder that even in the midst of adversity, we can find comfort, strength, in turning to God’s wisdom versus our own, asking for help.

The symbolism of God as the “most high” conveys his supreme authority and power. This title highlights the transcendence of God and serves as a reminder of His ability to rule over all things.

By addressing God as the “most high,” David acknowledges his subordination to Him and affirms his abiding belief in God’s capacity to intervene in his life.

Additionally, the phrase “God that performeth all things for me” emphasizes God’s role as the ultimate provider and sustainer.

This recognition of God’s sovereignty and control over all things reflects David’s unwavering trust in God’s ability to orchestrate events in his favor.

David’s acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty serves as an inspiration for today’s generation of believers, all generations yet to be, to wave their ‘white flag’ trust in God’s providence and faithfulness, even in the face of adversity.

This verse also carries a universal message about the nature of God and His willingness to respond to the prayers of those who seek Him. It serves as a comfort to believers, reminding them they can confidently bring their concerns and needs before God, knowing that He is able and willing to act on their behalf.

Psalms 57:2 is the Psalmist’s powerful declaration of ‘waving his white flag’ trust and reliance on God, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.

David’s unwavering faith and trust in God’s ability to intervene and provide for him serves as a model for believers of all generations to struggle to emulate.

This verse serves as a reminder of the sovereignty and faithfulness of God and encourages believers to turn to Him in times of trouble. Through its themes of struggle, surrender, faith, trust, dependence, and the sovereignty of God, this verse offers that fortress of comfort, strength to those who seek refuge in Him.

While there are numerous examples of surrender in the Scriptures, Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane and Abraham’s willingness to leave his homeland for a promised land of “milk and honey” sacrifice Isaac are 2 of the most profound.

In Matthew 26:36-46, Jesus’ desires matched God’s.

We often have a misconception that surrender means God will make you do things you hate. I spent years wrestling with the idea of getting out of nursing because I was fearful it was my life’s purpose, God’s will, and I am being selfish.

But friends, the wholehearted desires God’s given us should, can, bring us joy.

If we believe in Jesus and fully trust Him with our lives, our hearts and desires should align with His. Yes, He may ask us to do impossible, scary and confusing things, but never without true reason or cause. Just look at Jesus and Abraham.

Jesus died on the cross for our sins because He loved us and trusted that God must have something better for Him. It wasn’t painless, pretty, enjoyable, or fun for Him to endure. But He surrendered His life to the point of death for us.

Meanwhile, Abraham had been promised a son.

And not just any son, but a son through which his descendants would be named.

When God commanded him to put his promised Isaac on the altar as a sacrifice, he surrendered to God, he didn’t falter. Abraham knew what God had promised but also trusted if this was God’s plan He must have something better in store.

In both of these biblical examples of surrender, we learn that faith plays a role.

Surrender isn’t just about blind obedience but steadfast trust and unwavering respect. It’s our struggle; trusting God’s goodness and sovereignty that as we grow in our relationship with Him, the desires of our hearts will match His.

1. Realize that surrender doesn’t mean throwing your dreams out the window. 

2. Know that God asks us to surrender for our good. 

3. Focus squarely on the Word of God and God’s indelibly faithful promises. 

4. Acknowledge and confess the absolute sovereignty of God in all things.

5. No one is more righteous than God, is smarter or more wiser than God.

6. We can never be perfect, or more perfect or more powerful than God.

7. God’s purpose for us will always be better than any purpose we “design.”

8. God is always going to have His “way” His “truth” and His “life” with us.

9. We can never overpower God nor can we ever outlive him, out create Him.

10. Therefore, cease striving, know that only God is, can be, will be, GOD!

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Psalm 29 Complete Jewish Bible

29 (0) A psalm of David:

(1) Give Adonai his due, you who are godly;
give Adonai his due of glory and strength;
2 give Adonai the glory due his name;
worship Adonai in holy splendor.

3 The voice of Adonai is over the waters;
the God of glory thunders,
Adonai over rushing waters,
4 the voice of Adonai in power,
the voice of Adonai in splendor.

5 The voice of Adonai cracks the cedars;
Adonai splinters the cedars of the L’vanon
6 and makes the L’vanon skip like a calf,
Siryon like a young wild ox.

7 The voice of Adonai flashes fiery flames;
8 the voice of Adonai rocks the desert,
Adonai convulses the Kadesh Desert.
9 The voice of Adonai causes deer to give birth
and strips the forests bare —
while in his temple, all cry, “Glory!”
10 Adonai sits enthroned above the flood!
Adonai sits enthroned as king forever!
11 May Adonai give strength to his people!
May Adonai bless his people with shalom!

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

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Our Walking through our Valley, Our Walking through the Fires; Finishing our struggle, Surrendering unto God. Psalm 51:10-17

Psalm 51:10-17 Common English Bible

10 Create a clean heart for me, God;
    put a new, faithful spirit deep inside me!
11 Please don’t throw me out of your presence;
    please don’t take your holy spirit away from me.
12 Return the joy of your salvation to me
    and sustain me with a willing spirit.
13 Then I will teach wrongdoers your ways,
    and sinners will come back to you.

14 Deliver me from violence, God, God of my salvation,
    so that my tongue can sing of your righteousness.
15 Lord, open my lips,
    and my mouth will proclaim your praise.
16 You don’t want sacrifices.
    If I gave an entirely burned offering,
    you wouldn’t be pleased.
17 A broken spirit is my sacrifice, God.[a]
    You won’t despise a heart, God, that is broken and crushed.

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

Our Continually Struggling to Surrender to God

Psalm 51 was written by King David after he committed the sin of adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband killed to cover his sin (2 Samuel 11).

It has been said of David that he sinned big, but repented bigger.

But only after he was ‘publicly’ caught by Nathan in David’s throne room. One has to wonder how this scripture would read if Nathan never confronts David.

But God, who sees everything no matter how hard or deep we try to hide our actions, was not blind to David’s severest of transgression – his Capital Crime.

God sent Nathan to David’s throne room and fortunately so – lest the wrath of God be meted out without any scriptural announcements – a bolt of lightning strikes David on his throne with no witnesses to testify or witness the event.

David is consigned to a violent death and we probably do not have a lineage that would have been steadfastly honorable, or noteworthy to proclaim as Psalm 51.

Let us shout “Thanks Be to God” for sending Nathan with God’s message of life!

Because now generations of men, women and children are blessed by Psalm 51.

David became for us an inspiring, empowering model to us of what real heart felt repentance looks like. He mightily struggled with his sin, so much so that he took off his crown and regal regalia, and surrendered his throne which God granted to him and walked sullenly to the tabernacle to take a lonely seat before God His Judge for his righteous Judgment – keep the throne or be publicly tried.

He had no promises that God would permit his return to the throne, he might well have done the same as he first did to Saul, to remove His Spirit from Him, essentially permanently remove His support, from which Saul never recovered.

David understood the gravity of his crime against God and understood that God could do the same to his as Saul, and nothing short of absolute surrender would be acceptable sacrifice. Psalm 51 is David’s agonized cry to God for forgiveness.

Psalm 51:17 says, “My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.”

The meaning of this is connected with Verse 16 says, “You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.”

David is stating that there is nothing we can offer God to appease Him when we have sinned. When we have strived more mightily to stay in control. More not superficial but well intentioned animal sacrifices were not what God was going to be looking for nor even .00001% accept as our God desires true repentance.

Many people miss this truth. Rather than repent, they try to rush in with their superficial “clean up their act,” give more, pray more, or busy themselves in other religious activity in hopes God will finally “get over” being mad at them.

In Psalm 51, David is saying he knows that God wants none of that. External religious activity cannot replace internal, heartfelt contrition (1 Samuel 16:7).

Psalm 51:17 points out the one and only thing God desires more than any other: brokenness over our own sin. When we agree with God about how bad our sin is, we take the first baby steps toward a sincere heartfelt reconciliation with Him.

As long as we try to “pseudo-surrender” justify, excuse, or rationalize the evil of our own sin bent hearts, we will never find our way back into God’s presence.

Something Jesus Himself made a point of declaring at the start of His Ministry;

Mark 1:14-15 Amplified Bible

Jesus Preaches in Galilee

14 Now after John [the Baptist] was arrested and [a]taken into custody, Jesus went to Galilee, preaching the good news of [the kingdom of] God, 15 and saying, “The  [appointed period of] time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins, live your life in a way that proves repentance; seek God’s purpose for your life] and believe [with a deep, abiding trust] in the good news [regarding salvation].”

Nothing less than 100% surrender and repentance is our doorway to freedom.

Satan knows this better than us, does everything he can to detract us from it.

He suggests things that our selfish nature likes to hear:

“Your sin wasn’t that bad.” “Compared to others, you’re okay.” “God has forgotten it already. No need to confess it.”

When we listen to the devil’s cunning oily words, we will veer away from the doorway to freedom and remain in bondage. We may feel remorse or regret, but neither is sufficient substitute for true repentance (Genesis 3, Hebrews 12:15-17).

Hebrews 12:15-17 Amplified Bible

15 See to it that no one falls short of God’s grace; that no root of resentment springs up and causes trouble, and by it many be defiled; 16 and [see to it] that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who sold his own birthright for a single  meal. 17 For you know that later on, when he wanted [to regain title to] his inheritance of the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no opportunity for repentance [there was no way to repair what he had done, no chance to recall the choice he had made], even though he sought for it with [bitter] tears.

David reminds us in Psalm 51 that the only path to forgiveness is a broken heart and a humble spirit (cf. Matthew 5:3).

When we throw ourselves on the mercy of God, He delights to lift us up (Luke 18:13-14). When we openly acknowledge our sin against God, turn from it, and cry out for cleansing, God promises that He will hear us and forgive (1 John 1:9).

It is interesting to note that, although David sinned against Bathsheba and her murdered husband, Uriah, David surrenders this stunning confession to God:

“Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight” (Psalm 51:4).

David gets straight to the heart of why God so hates sin. It is an abomination, a hardcore heart hardened willful malicious pre-meditated violation of His very nature. We are each created in that image, but our sin mars it (Genesis 3), like a giant smudge of blackest tar on a mirror. Our broken spirit, our contrite heart, invite God to clean that smudge and restore us to right relationship with Him.

Now, Ponder long and hard the 100% authentic state of your “contrite” heart!

Now, Ponder long and hard the words “utter surrender.” then “Before God!”

Then … “prepare ye, prepare ye the way of the Lord, make your paths straight.”

OMG … Stand still, Quit striving against Him, “What will God wrought now?”

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Psalm 139:23-24 Amplified Bible

23 
Search me [thoroughly], O God, (investigate my life) and know my heart;
Test me and know my anxious thoughts;
24 
And see if there is any wicked or hurtful way in me,
And lead me in the everlasting way.

Psalm 19 Amplified Bible

The Works and the Word of God.

To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.

19 The heavens are telling of the glory of God;
And the expanse [of heaven] is declaring the work of His hands.
2 
Day after day pours forth speech,
And night after night reveals knowledge.
3 
There is no speech, nor are there [spoken] words [from the stars];
Their voice is not heard.
4 
Yet their voice [in quiet evidence] has gone out through all the earth,
Their words to the end of the world.
In them and in the heavens He has made a tent for the sun,
5 
Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber;
It rejoices as a strong man to run his course.
6 
The sun’s rising is from one end of the heavens,
And its circuit to the other end of them;
And there is nothing hidden from its heat.

7 
The law of the Lord is perfect (flawless), restoring and refreshing the soul;
The statutes of the Lord are reliable and trustworthy, making wise the simple.
8 
The precepts of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart;
The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9 
The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever;
The judgments of the Lord are true, they are righteous altogether.
10 
They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold;
Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.
11 
Moreover, by them Your servant is warned [reminded, illuminated, and instructed];
In keeping them there is great reward.
12 
Who can understand his errors or omissions? Acquit me of hidden (unconscious, unintended) faults.
13 
Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous (deliberate, willful) sins;
Let them not rule and have control over me.
Then I will be blameless (complete),
And I shall be acquitted of great transgression.
14 
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable and pleasing in Your sight,
O Lord, my [firm, immovable] rock and my Redeemer.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

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Have you personally envisioned or ever asked or has someone heard of someone asking about “entering His gates with thanksgiving, His courts with praise?” Psalm 100:4

Psalm 100 Authorized (King James) Version

Psalm 100

A Psalm of praise.

1 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
2 Serve the Lord with gladness:
come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the Lord he is God:
it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,
and into his courts with praise:
be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting;
and his truth endureth to all generations.

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

Have you ever heard someone ask about the Bible verse, “enter His gates with thanksgiving, His courts with praise?”

Have you personally made any effort to envision the Bible verse, “enter His gates with thanksgiving, His courts with praise?”

What are the gates?

How can we enter with thanksgiving if life is full of trouble and despair?

Is there a process?

As Christians, we place our hope in God.

Yes, tough times will come.

When life is filled with turmoil and when life is filled with joy, enter His gates with thanksgiving, His courts with praise.

Where Does the Bible Say “Enter His Gate with Thanksgiving”?

The book of Psalms is where Scripture shares this important statement: 

Psalm 100 Complete Jewish Bible

100 (0) A psalm of thanksgiving:

(1) Shout for joy to Adonai, all the earth!
2 Serve Adonai with gladness.
Enter his presence with joyful songs.

3 Be aware that Adonai is God;
it is he who made us; and we are his,
his people, the flock in his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
enter his courtyards with praise;
give thanks to him, and bless his name.
5 For Adonai is good, his grace continues forever,
and his faithfulness lasts through all generations.

Psalm 100 is credited to King David, although some biblical scholars believe various people wrote the book of Psalms.

The words are directed to everyone in very generation in every community.

This psalm is sometimes called a guide or hymnal for worship and prayer.

Although only five verses, this powerful message reminds us to give thanks to God. Trials and troubled times will always come into our life, but we have the opportunity to continue praising God and giving thanksgiving to God always.

What Are God’s Gates?

Biblical scholars refer to God’s gates as when we come into the presence of God.

In other words, whenever we come and seek to enter His Tabernacle to worship God, we enter His presence.

When we pray to God, we enter into a personal relationship with the Father.

Whether we enter to offer sacrifices, give thanksgiving or cry out with sadness, the gates of His presence are open to His children.

Christians acknowledge there is one God, and we are His creations.

“Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture” (Psalm 100:3 NIV).

How Do We “Enter His Gates”?

Set aside all notions you are in charge of anything in your life. (Psalm 100:3)

Be still … practice muchly the disciplines of “exalting stillness and silence.”

Psalm 46:10-11 Authorized (King James) Version

10 Be still, and know that I am God:
I will be exalted among the heathen,
I will be exalted in the earth.
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

Open yourself to the presence of God and pray.

Prayer opens the door to conversation and relationship with God.

Prayer is personal time shared with God.

When we pray, we know God hears.

Beginning prayer by focusing on God and not the self is the way to enter His gates. Enter with praise and thanksgiving.

Begin the prayer by thanking God for His steadfast love and forgiveness. 

Acknowledge the need for forgiveness.

Repent of all sins.

Praise God for His forgiveness.

Give thanks to God.

Scripture tells of the narrow gate and the wide gate.

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matthew 7:13-14 NIV).

His gates are open, and yet some people refuse to enter.

Entering through the narrow gate will take dedication and the desire to have a personal relationship with God.

Live for God.

Share His love with others.

Share His message and help others know Him. 

In the book of John chapter 14 verses 5-6, when Thomas told Jesus that the disciples didn’t know where Jesus was going and wondered how they could know the way. Jesus responded with an important statement verses 6-7.

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him’” (John 14:6-7 NIV).

How Do We Offer God Thanksgiving Today?

Thanksgiving is not something we give only on a Thursday in November or other certain days of the year.

Thanksgiving to God is an act of worship we can do every moment.

Waking in the morning, giving thanks for a glorious day can allow the day to begin with the light of God’s presence.

Sharing conversations, saying prayers throughout the day can bring comfort and peace.

Preparing for rest in the evening and giving thanks in our nightly prayers can deepen our faith. Every single moment is an opportunity to give thanks to God.

We can offer God thanksgiving through our words, actions today and every day.

Show others His love by sharing His Word.

Perhaps there is an GOD opportunity to volunteer in church or community.

Exalt God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit …

Show patience, humility, compassion, and kindness in every situation.

Whatever is happening in life, give thanks to God.

Know that in good times and bad times, God is always King, God never leaves nor forsakes. God sent His Son, He will lead, guide us through every moment. 

What to Do When Giving Thanks is Difficult

Life is hard at times.

Perhaps you are journeying through a stressful and desperate time, and giving thanks tends to be difficult.

What if you are having a hard time giving thanks to God?

First, remember God knows the heart of His children.

God loves you and understands every emotion.

If giving thanks is hard, go to God in prayer.

Share concerns, worries, and fears.

Ask God to bring the peace and comfort only He can give. 

In prayer, share with God any difficulties you may have with giving thanks.

Seek His leadership, His Direction His guidance for the situation. (Psalm 16:11)

Go to God with a servant’s heart.

Ask for His forgiveness. Rest in His promises. Release your difficulties to Him.

Just Come to the Gates and Worship, Worship, Repeat

“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.”

That’s the way I memorized Psalm 100:1 as a child (King James Version).

My young imagination pictured grand, far-off kingdoms set in golden, rolling landscapes, lifting their attention to the heavens, join in one huge happy shout.

I picture it a bit differently now—maybe because I know more about the world than I did then. I’m more aware that not all in our world is grand and golden. In fact, we all live in a world filled with wars, divisions, and inequities of all sorts.

Sometimes we’re severely tempted to believe that nothing could ever unite us.

But the psalmist believes unity is possible.

God loves every person in every land, and God’s desire for each one is to come to him with thanksgiving and praise.

The invitation, the welcome, the call to know God’s goodness goes out into all the world.

The psalmist calls every person in every time and place to offer thanksgiving, singing, grateful devotion to the God who made us and is faithful to all creation.

These few verses of Psalm 100 pushes us beyond all boundaries to embrace all peoples, and beyond every self-centered preoccupation to worship only God.

So give thanks to God today.

“For the Lord is good.”

His love forever extends to the ends of the universe and endures forever. 

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Psalm 19 Authorized (King James) Version

Psalm 19

To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.

1 The heavens declare the glory of God;
and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
2 Day unto day uttereth speech,
and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
3 There is no speech nor language,
where their voice is not heard.
4 Their line is gone out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
5 which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven,
and his circuit unto the ends of it:
and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.

7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul:
the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart:
the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever:
the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold:
sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned:
and in keeping of them there is great reward.
12 Who can understand his errors?
cleanse thou me from secret faults.
13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins;
let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright,
and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.

14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart,
be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord,
my strength, and my redeemer.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

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A Thanksgiving with a real Flourish; Enter His gates with thanksgiving, enter His courtyards with praise; give thanks to Him, bless His Holy name. Psalm 100

Psalm 100 Authorized (King James) Version

Psalm 100

A Psalm of praise.

1 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
2 Serve the Lord with gladness:
come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the Lord he is God:
it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,
and into his courts with praise:
be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting;
and his truth endureth to all generations.

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

Just a few small, exceedingly simple, uncomplicated commands …

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord.

Serve the Lord with Gladness.

Come before His Presence with singing.

Know ye that the Lord He is God.

Enter into His gates with Thanksgiving.

Enter into His Courts with Praise.

Be thankful unto Him.

Bless His Name.

WHY?

it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

 For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting;
and his truth endureth to all generations.

Do we need anymore a better reason to ….

Not just today because it is Thanksgiving and we get to get together with our families and friends, with our church communities; go into the streets, into the homeless shelters serve those who have little to nothing in God’s Kingdom with an abundance of food, clothing, shelter, donated from our own abundance, to sit with them, eat with them, drink with them, talk with them, share a feast of plenty GOD fit for egregious sinners like us, perhaps even watch some football or some other favorite sport, or plan for a calm wild black Friday shopping blitz.

To just read and share the Word of God …

To have some time of personal and group reflection … why do I say “Thanks be to God” anyway? followed by a blessed opportunity to pray with high gratitude!

To sing with whatever great cacophony of noise our thankful hearts can muster;

Give thanks with a grateful heart,
give thanks to the Holy One;
give thanks, because he’s given
Jesus Christ, his Son.
Give thanks with a grateful heart,
give thanks to the Holy One;
give thanks, because he’s given
Jesus Christ, his Son.

And now let the weak say ‘I am strong’,
let the poor say ‘I am rich’,
because of what the Lord has done for us;
and now let the weak say ‘I am strong’,
let the poor say ‘I am rich’,
because of what the Lord has done for us.
Give thanks…

Author

Henry Smith *© Copyright 1978 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music

A Call to Thanksgiving

Psalm 100 Easy-to-Read Version

A song of thanks.

100 Earth, sing to the Lord!
2 Be happy as you serve the Lord!
    Come before him with happy songs!
3 Know that the Lord is God.
    He made us, and we belong to him.
    We are his people, the sheep he takes care of.
4 Come through the gates to his Temple giving thanks to him.
    Enter his courtyards with songs of praise.
    Honor him and bless his name.
5 The Lord is good!
    There is no end to his faithful love.
    We can trust him forever and ever!

Find it from some place deep in your soul to Sing … Thanks Be to God …

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! … Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise!

Leave ‘somber’ behind…place God at the center, the forefront of your thoughts.

What do we have to lose but … sadness, tears, grief, anger, misery, loneliness?

What do we have to gain?

1 Corinthians 13 Easy-to-Read Version

Let Love Be Your Guide

13 I may speak in different languages, whether human or even of angels. But if I don’t have love, I am only a noisy bell or a ringing cymbal. 2 I may have the gift of prophecy, I may understand all secrets and know everything there is to know, and I may have faith so great that I can move mountains. But even with all this, if I don’t have love, I am nothing. 3 I may give away everything I have to help others, and I may even give my body as an offering to be burned. But I gain nothing by doing all this if I don’t have love.

4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous, it does not brag, and it is not proud. 5 Love is not rude, it is not selfish, and it cannot be made angry easily. Love does not remember wrongs done against it. 6 Love is never happy when others do wrong, but it is always happy with the truth. 7 Love never gives up on people. It never stops trusting, never loses hope, and never quits.

8 Love will never end. But all those gifts will come to an end—even the gift of prophecy, the gift of speaking in different kinds of languages, and the gift of knowledge. 9 These will all end because this knowledge and these prophecies we have are not complete. 10 But when perfection comes, the things that are not complete will end.

11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, and I made plans like a child. When I became a man, I stopped those childish ways. 12 It is the same with us. Now we see God as if we are looking at a reflection in a mirror. But then, in the future, we will see him right before our eyes. Now I know only a part, but at that time I will know fully, as God has known me. 13 So these three things continue: faith, hope, and love. And the greatest of these is love.

Loving one another isn’t a simple one to five minute matter of warm, fuzzy feelings and weak knees and pounding hearts. It’s a matter of doing the right thing because that’s what Jesus would do and did. Sometimes it can even bring unpleasant results for us. Hardcore loving often calls for doing the unexpected.

As followers of Jesus, we know that love is not something we can just opt to do or not do. It’s a command from our Master, whose life showed us how to love.

If we’re ever asked why we are show­ing love, we can answer, “Because we’re disciples of someone who loves us. We do it for Jesus’ sake.”

What’s more, we can show love only by the ­power of Holy Spirit working in us.

Then we’re able, like the twelve apostles, to witness, testify to, we’re serving Christ by loving the people we interact with and serve (Matthew 14:13-21).

Loving “one another” is often challenging.

It may call us to love the strong-willed child or an aging parent or spouse angry with dementia.

At home or church it may involve loving someone who is always negative and critical.

At work it may be the coworker claiming to be indispensable while barely doing their job.

It may mean foregoing a new coat so that someone else can have one.

The “other” in our lives could be some­one we don’t even know but who comes to love Jesus because of something we did.

To whom will you show gratitude and thankfulness of Jesus’ love today?

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Psalm 16 Authorized (King James) Version

Psalm 16

Michtam of David.

1 Preserve me, O God:
for in thee do I put my trust.
2 O my soul, thou hast said unto the Lord,
Thou art my Lord: my goodness extendeth not to thee;
3 but to the saints that are in the earth,
and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.
4 Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after another god:
their drink offerings of blood will I not offer,
nor take up their names into my lips.
5 The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup:
thou maintainest my lot.
6 The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places;
yea, I have a goodly heritage.

7 I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel:
my reins also instruct me in the night seasons.
8 I have set the Lord always before me:
because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth:
my flesh also shall rest in hope.
10 For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell;
neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life:
in thy presence is fulness of joy;
at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

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What if someone had asked us for all the ways which God’s Gentleness has the Greatest Impact on all our Lives? Psalm 18:31-42

Psalm 18:31-42 English Standard Version

31 For who is God, but the Lord?
    And who is a rock, except our God?—
32 the God who equipped me with strength
    and made my way blameless.
33 He made my feet like the feet of a deer
    and set me secure on the heights.
34 He trains my hands for war,
    so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35 You have given me the shield of your salvation,
    and your right hand supported me,
    and your gentleness made me great.
36 You gave a wide place for my steps under me,
    and my feet did not slip.
37 I pursued my enemies and overtook them,
    and did not turn back till they were consumed.
38 I thrust them through, so that they were not able to rise;
    they fell under my feet.
39 For you equipped me with strength for the battle;
    you made those who rise against me sink under me.
40 You made my enemies turn their backs to me,[a]
    and those who hated me I destroyed.
41 They cried for help, but there was none to save;
    they cried to the Lord, but he did not answer them.
42 I beat them fine as dust before the wind;
    I cast them out like the mire of the streets.

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

In the early Christian church a man named Marcion pitted the “God of the Old Testament” against Jesus, the “God of the New Testament.” He said that the Old Testament God was hard fierce and demanding and that the New Testament Jesus was merciful, loving, and gentle.

The church rightly rejected that idea as a contradiction of the Bible’s teaching.

In more recent contemporary times, the reverse has taken place. Among people who want rapid social change, the gentleness of Jesus is treated with scorn, as if he was a mere weakling, easily manipulated, used by the corrupt establishment.

However, the careful and diligent reading of the Bible teaches that God is both.

He is full of wrath against evil, unconvinced by lame excuses, demanding true justice and goodness.

At the same time he is gentle, humble, and mild toward all who become his disciples, because he empathizes “with our weaknesses” (Hebrews 4:15).

“Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted” (Hebrews 2:18).

He is the perfect Teacher for us, if we authentically, seriously take his yoke on our shoulders to sit still. to learn, understand and grow into how to be godly.

We have a lot to learn from this God we worship, for we often tend to be angry when we should be gentle, and gentle when we should be fierce enemies of evil.

What we could be learning of God’s Gentleness …

David in Psalm 18:35 wrote,

“thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.”

David had full recognition of the vast mercies provided by the Lord.

The provisions, protection, and empowerments were full contemplations and gentle manifestations of a righteous and sovereign God. As we inspect our own lives, we can see that the Lord’s gentleness has indeed made all the difference. 

1. He Is Our Sure Defense

The gentleness of our God has the attributes of love, grace, mercy as well as judgment. He can exercise each office concurrently while at the same time not neglecting any of the other attributes.

Certainly, God would have been justified in allowing the enemies of David to prevail against him as judgment for his indiscretions.

He was an adulterer, murderer, and bad father.

No doubt he was punished for the consequences of his sins, but the providence of our Lord had a greater eternal plan for the life of David.

His testimony was one of a lowly shepherd boy who was most unlikely to wear the most powerful crown in the world.

He was anointed and trained for over ten years before he was fully equipped, however, to reign over the land.

The patience of this process exhibited God’s gentleness as David was not thrusted into the position prior to the “fullness of time.”

In the first section of Psalm 18, David wrote about the strategies and ways of his enemies and Saul.

Notice in verse one that “enemies” and Saul were separated, contemplating certain respect endowed to the fellow king irrespective of his evil motives and tendencies. David painted a hopeless picture of being compassed about with “sorrows of death” and being afraid of the “floods of ungodly men.”

Even worse than death, David describes the “sorrows of hell” and the “snares of death.”

Immediate and eternal death would certainly be a more desirable position than being tortured and tormented by the prospect of hell and vices capable of death but falling short.

David called upon the Lord in his condition from the temple.

It was not in the plan of God for David to succumb to the throws of his enemies or especially Saul as he was promised as much.

Today, we have the same promise about the snares and the evils of the day. 

Isaiah 54:14-17 reminds us that “in righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror, for it shall not come near thee. No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper.”

Indeed, we give Him all the praise because “this is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.”

2. Our Prayers to Our Gentle Savior Make It “Even into His Ears”

Not only did David’s plea for help make it to the throne of Heaven, but “even into his ears” indicating the plea penetrated the being of the Lord.

The same can be said about our pleas, prayers and petitions summoning the attention from the Most High.

Until the enmity between us and the throne of heaven was removed by our mediator Jesus Christ, cries could not reach the heights necessary for action.

1 Peter 3:12 assures the New Testament saint that, “the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open until their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.”

Thus, we cannot neglect the privilege of reaching the ears of our Savior by crying out with our prayers and concerns.

3. God Is Gentle to His Children, but Powerful to Their Enemies

In verses 7-15, David reflected the sheer force and might of a covenant God when in defense of His covenant man.

The Lord God made “the earth shook and tremble” to such a degree that “the foundations also of the hills moved and were shaken.” His person blew out “smoke out of his nostrils and fire out of his mouth devoured.”

The Creator “bowed the heavens also, and came down: and darkness was under his feet.” Even though the consequences of His power reached the earth severely, “he rode upon a cherub, and did fly” “upon the wings of the wind.”

Certainly, the creator of creation and the maker of man has the power to call upon His creation in subserviency.

Jesus is quoted in Matthew 12:29, “or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his good, except he first bind the strong man?”

When we are being opposed, we view our enemies as mighty and strong.

Thanks be to our Heavenly Father, however, the believer has access to that “stronger man” who is able to bind the “powers of this dark world” and the “spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12.)

4. His Gentleness Is Our Deliverance

The strength of the enemy was so great David fully recognized it was the Lord who “delivered [him] from [his] strong enemy” because “they were too strong for [me].”

The gentleness of Lord preached messages of love, forgiveness, and a need for spiritual cleansing to the masses despite a world who hated Him.

Regardless of his unpopularity, His gentleness led Him to a cross on Calvary.

He had access to the highest throne in heaven, but His gentleness permitted our sins to be thrusted into His skin.

Even with His innocence, His gentleness died upon this cross of judgment.

Despite physical death, His gentleness fought the grave and delivered unto us our salvation.

The strength of man’s sin was too much of an enemy for our meager will power and great desires of the flesh.

It was the gentleness of our Lord and Savior who had convicted our soul of our lost and defeated condition.

5. His Gentleness Guides Us to Obedience

David understood the importance of obedience and the cleanliness.

He wrote in verse 20, “the Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands.”

Even our obedience is not glory attributable to us via our own abilities.

The cleansing and empowerment of the Holy Ghost gives us the desire and the instruction necessary for obedience.

Thus, our obedience is nothing of ourselves and is effortless from our own hands.

In Hebrews 5:8, we see that “though [Jesus Christ] were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered.”

Therefore, through Jesus’s suffering obedience we are granted with the gentleness of His guide.

6. His Gentleness Gives Us a Strong Footing

David understood the importance of a foundation for strong and agile footing when we wrote in verse 31, “who is a rock save our God?”

He gave us the strength and safe passage upon the journey because

“He maketh my feet like a [feet] hinds’ feet, and setteth me upon my high places.”

It is the position of the high places that we can fully appreciate our ascension through the power of Christ.

Just as the church, our foundation is established in the sure footing through Christ.

By the provisions of His Word and the Holy Spirit, “thou has also given [us] the shield of thy salvation.”

These armaments “teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms.”

Our feet may physically progress, but it is He that “hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip.”

When we take a position in accord with the Word of God, it is “He [who] gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.”

Thus, not only does our Lord have all power, but He has the ability and desire to bestow power.

The gentleness from both His mercy and grace culminates from the gift of “the shield of salvation.”

Our reliance is His righteousness as it is His “right hand [that] hath holden me up.”

David writes about his greatness solely because of what the Lord did throughout his life.

All of our greatness and righteousness is found from Jesus Christ and His work on the cross.

His gentleness is what “hath made me great.”

7. His Gentleness Guarantees Our Victory

The Psalmist then changes tone from being mired against prey unto a state of victorious enablement.

Such as us when we were neck-deep living in a lost sin dominated life and without hope.

Paul in Romans 8:37 declared us “more than conquerors through [Jesus Christ] that loved us.”

In Psalm 18 verse 37, David wrote that he pursued his enemies and overtook them because his “feet did not slip.”

He was not fatigued by the fight but was given persistence unto victory until the enemy was consumed.

Accordingly, the Holy Spirit seals us until the time of redemption until our ultimate realization of salvation and the glorification of our bodies.

In this ultimate victory, we will be able to declare just as Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:55, “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?”

Our daily spiritual victories upon this earth in this fleshly body will pale in the comparison to the victory over death as our “vile body” will be “fashioned like unto his glorious body.”

8. His Gentleness Is Our Praise

David concludes with verses 49 and 50 by giving “thanks unto thee, O Lord, among the heathen, and sing praises unto thy name.”

The psalm began with a desperate plea for help but ends with the singing of “praises unto thy name.” The praise is personal as David wrote, “great deliverance giveth he to his king; and sheweth mercy to his anointed.”

Indeed as our Savior, Lord, and King, Jesus is due all of our praise and adoration.

He did not forcibly enter the chamber of our heart in order to procure our salvation.

As a prerequisite to salvation, he did not place the onerous burden of abiding the law upon us by requiring its recantation and its physical manifestation adorning our clothing as a constant reminder.

God forbid.

No, it was His worldly paradoxical power of might combined with His greatest gentleness that performed the greatest miracle by the twain of two opposite forces of perfection and sin into “one new man, so making peace” as Paul wrote in Ephesians 2:15.

By this witness, we can testify that truly “thy gentleness hath made me great!”

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Psalm 5 English Standard Version

Lead Me in Your Righteousness

To the choirmaster: for the flutes. A Psalm of David.

5 Give ear to my words, O Lord;
    consider my groaning.
2 Give attention to the sound of my cry,
    my King and my God,
    for to you do I pray.
3 O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice;
    in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you[a] and watch.

4 For you are not a God who delights in wickedness;
    evil may not dwell with you.
5 The boastful shall not stand before your eyes;
    you hate all evildoers.
6 You destroy those who speak lies;
    the Lord abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man.

7 But I, through the abundance of your steadfast love,
    will enter your house.
I will bow down toward your holy temple
    in the fear of you.
8 Lead me, O Lord, in your righteousness
    because of my enemies;
    make your way straight before me.

9 For there is no truth in their mouth;
    their inmost self is destruction;
their throat is an open grave;
    they flatter with their tongue.
10 Make them bear their guilt, O God;
    let them fall by their own counsels;
because of the abundance of their transgressions cast them out,
    for they have rebelled against you.

11 But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;
    let them ever sing for joy,
and spread your protection over them,
    that those who love your name may exult in you.
12 For you bless the righteous, O Lord;
    you cover him with favor as with a shield.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

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Come, O’ faithful ones, and hear, all you who revere God; let me tell you what he has done for me. Psalm 66

Psalm 66 New American Standard Bible 1995

Praise for God’s Mighty Deeds and for His Answer to Prayer.

For the choir director. A Song. A Psalm.

66 Shout joyfully to God, all the earth;
2 Sing the glory of His name;
Make His praise glorious.
3 Say to God, “How awesome are Your works!
Because of the greatness of Your power Your enemies will [a]give feigned obedience to You.
4 “All the earth will worship You,
And will sing praises to You;
They will sing praises to Your name.” [b]Selah.

5 Come and see the works of God,
Who is awesome in His deeds toward the sons of men.
6 He turned the sea into dry land;
They passed through the river on foot;
There let us rejoice in Him!
7 He rules by His might forever;
His eyes keep watch on the nations;
Let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah.

8 Bless our God, O peoples,
And [c]sound His praise abroad,
9 Who [d]keeps us in life
And does not allow our feet to [e]slip.
10 For You have tried us, O God;
You have refined us as silver is refined.
11 You brought us into the net;
You laid an oppressive burden upon our loins.
12 You made men ride over our heads;
We went through fire and through water,
Yet You brought us out into a place of abundance.
13 I shall come into Your house with burnt offerings;
I shall pay You my vows,
14 Which my lips uttered
And my mouth spoke when I was in distress.
15 I shall offer to You burnt offerings of fat beasts,
With the smoke of rams;
I shall make an offering of [f]bulls with male goats. Selah.

16 Come and hear, all who [g]fear God,
And I will tell of what He has done for my soul.
17 I cried to Him with my mouth,
And [h]He was extolled with my tongue.
18 If I [i]regard wickedness in my heart,
The Lord [j]will not [k]hear;
19 But certainly God has heard;
He has given heed to the voice of my prayer.
20 Blessed be God,
Who has not turned away my prayer
Nor His lovingkindness from me.

The Word of God for the Children of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

We have needs which God meets. Quite often, with and in as much gratitude as we can muster we are led to give thanks after giving honor and adoration to God in our prayers for blessings received. We give thanks for all the amazing things God has done—for this world, for his people, and for us in our personal lives.

Notice how Psalm 66 moves from adoration to thanksgiving.

In the first four verses the psalmist declares how awesome and glorious God is.

Then in verse 5 we see a transition to “come and see what God has done.” From this point on, the psalm reads like an inventory of God’s gifts and amazing help.

The psalmist describes how God continually saves and never stops watching over his people, even in the context of anxiety, fear, trouble, disappointments, and psalmist shouts thanks for what God has done for him personally as well.

The ancient words of Psalm 66 teaches us the value of being specific when we give thanks to God. Many people like to keep a personal “thanks be to God” prayer journal that helps them pay attention to what God is doing in their lives.

As the Psalmist did here in Psalm 66, they keep a running list of God’s blessings and His mercy, love, for them, and they review their list in thanksgiving to God.

In our own personal prayer life (if we actually have disciplined ourselves to have one), do we even .01% acknowledge, recognize gratitude grows in many ways?

God is incredibly gracious and generous.

As we read in James 1:17, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father. . . .”

The One who gives so abundantly, so much of Himself to us, without caveats, is in my own personal belief, is truly most worthy to receive our abundant thanks.

Psalms 66:20 in the King James Version of the Bible reads: “Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me.”

This verse is a resounding declaration of the Psalmists praise and thanksgiving to God for not rejecting the psalmist’s prayers, for continuing to show mercy.

The book of Psalms is a compilation of 150 poetic songs and prayers and pleas the Psalmist’s raised, that were used in worship and praise in ancient Israel.

The psalms cover a wide range of deep emotions and themes, including praise, thanksgiving, lament, and petition. Psalms 66, in particular, is a psalm of high magnitude thanksgiving and wall shaking praise for deliverance from trouble.

The verse at hand expresses the psalmist’s gratitude for God’s faithfulness in hearing and answering prayers.

It acknowledges the mercy and compassion of God, as well as the fact that He has not and will not forsaken or turned away from the psalmist’s cries for help.

This verse reflects the psalmist’s strength of faith, deepest trust in God and his recognition of God’s constant, continual continued presence, grace in his life.

The theme of gratitude and thanksgiving is central to this verse.

It vividly highlights the psalmist’s recognition of the blessings and deliverance that have come from God alone. The act of praising God for His faithfulness in answering prayers and showing mercy serves as an empowering reminder to all believers to express gratitude for all God’s goodness and provision in their lives.

The context of this verse within the larger psalm is also significant.

In the preceding verses, the psalmist recounts a time of distress and trouble when he called out to God for help.

He describes how God has brought him through the trials and has answered his prayers setting the stage for the declaration of praise and thanksgiving in verse 20, as our psalmist reflects on the faithfulness of God in answering to petitions.

The symbolism of verse 20 lies in the essential contrast between the continual faithfulness of God and the never ending tiresome fickleness of human nature.

The psalmist juxtaposes the unwavering nature of God’s mercy and the innate tendency of humanity to forget or neglect the goodness of God. The image of God not turning away the psalmist’s prayer signifies His steadfastness and His 100% willingness to hear, to listen and to respond to the cries of His people.

In a broader theological sense, this verse also points to the character of God as being merciful and compassionate. It emphasizes the idea that God is a loving and caring deity who is attentive to the needs and pleas of His people.

This is a critical source of comfort and reassurance for believers, as it affirms the Psalmist’s belief in God’s loving-kindness and His willingness to extend, unconditionally, His grace and mercy with no boundaries, to those who seek.

In conclusion, the ancient words of Psalms 66:20 is a verse of highest gratitude and maxed out praise, expressing the psalmist’s deepest thankfulness for God’s faithfulness in answering prayers and showing mercy.

It serves readers of all ages, of all generations as a reminder to all believers of the importance of acknowledging, praising God for His goodness and provision.

The verse also highlights the symbolic contrast between God’s unwavering mercy and the fickle nature of humanity, as well as pointing to the character of God as loving and compassionate. It is an incredibly inspiring, and an incredibly powerful statement of hope, trust and reliance on God’s faithfulness and grace.

If we were the modern contemporary Psalmist and were inspired to be thankful to God for blessings given and blessings received, how would our own Psalm 66 read? How would future generations of Psalmist’s be empowered, inspired to write theirs’s? And we the readers and writers of devotionals, to just HUG GOD?

In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,

Let us Pray,

Psalm 150 Complete Jewish Bible

150 Halleluyah!

Praise God in his holy place!
Praise him in the heavenly dome of his power!
2 Praise him for his mighty deeds!
Praise him for his surpassing greatness!

3 Praise him with a blast on the shofar!
Praise him with lute and lyre!
4 Praise him with tambourines and dancing!
Praise him with flutes and strings!
5 Praise him with clanging cymbals!
Praise him with loud crashing cymbals!
6 Let everything that has breath praise Adonai!

Halleluyah!

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, amen.

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