Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 54 (Tuesday)

Encouragement Post #54 (Tuesday) - "Who would've thought that a Lamb could rescue the souls of men? Oh, You rescue the souls of men."

1 Peter 1:17-19 "If you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay on earth; knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ."

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 53 (Monday)

Encouragement Post Day #53 (Monday) - Psalm 79:8-9 "Do not remember the iniquities of our forefathers against us; Let Your compassion come quickly to meet us, For we are brought very low. Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of Your name; And deliver us and forgive our sins for Your name’s sake."

The Glory of Your Name
by Watermark

It was in the way You came
As a lowly babe
That Your glory was displayed
And it was in the sacrifice
Of the purest life
It was in Your Father's will obeyed

[Chorus]
The perfect Lamb that was slain
And there's the glory of Your name
No other one, no other way for me to see
You took my place, You are the way
And there's the glory of Your name
Yes, there's the glory of Your name

It was in Your victory, risen for the world to see
That all who would believe could enter in
And it is in the passionate price
Now demanding all my life
And beating in the chambers of my heart
[Chorus]

And there is nothing in this world
That could take the place of You
That could take the place of You my Jesus
And there is nothing in this life
That could take the place of
One life, one love
One power to save us all
One hope, one truth
And one glory in it all
One glory in it all
[Chorus]

Mother's Day - So Blessed!

I am so amazingly blessed to have been cared for, taught, nurtured, encouraged, and loved by this amazing lady for my whole life. I don't really have the words to describe how much her unconditional love has meant to me. I grieve for those who have not had that kind of a mother's love in their life. I am thankful to the Lord every day that He chose to give me a mother like her. And now we are much more than mother and daughter; we are best friends and sisters in the Lord. I love you, Mama!

Granmama and Mama

Aunt Janet, Granmama, and Mama

Mama and Me

Mama, Mary Kat, and Me

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 52 (Saturday)

Encouragement Post – Day #52 (Saturday) We know God as our Father, but He also has motherly characteristics. Here is how the prophet Isaiah (49:15-16) describes His love for us, “Can a woman forget her nursing child and have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me.” His care and love for us extend farther than a mother’s for her nursing child. Amazing! And my experience with my own mother includes buckets full of unconditional love. I am truly blessed. Which brings to mind a very mother-like characteristic of our God in this familiar scripture from Lamentations 3:21-23, “This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 51 (Friday)

Encouragement Post – Day #51 (Friday) - I can hardly believe that my song list now has over 50 songs!! We have heard an awful lot of talk about freedom lately. And while it has long been a value in our country, we get it wrong so often. What is real freedom? Is it having no boundaries at all and being allowed to do whatever you want to… any whim at any moment? If that were freedom, then the people who go around killing people would ostensibly be living in freedom. In actuality, being subject to the whims of our sinful fleshly desires is utter bondage. We see that bondage played out on a large scale daily as people give in to those desire and wreck their own lives or the lives of others.

Jesus knew what true freedom would mean to us. While here on earth, He lived in total submission to the Father, while being entirely free to do what He desired. These two were one and the same. He desired to do the Father’s will so much that He CHOSE the cross. He was free not to, but He chose it for us because He KNEW it would set us free. Now, because of the cross, as we surrender to Him we find out what true freedom really is. It is abundant life, peace that passes understanding, victory over the bondage of sin, and joy that is unspeakable.

“It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” – Galatians 5:1

“For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” – 1 Corinthians 1:18

Update – again thanks SO very much to all who prayed for me. I am significantly better, with just a little twinge of discomfort here and there… day 4 of antibiotics and VERY thankful!!

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 50 (Thursday)

Encouragement Post – Day #50 (Thursday) Today is the National Day of Prayer in our nation. In my lifetime, at least that I can recall, there has never been a more desperate time in our nation for the need of God’s hand to move. Amazingly, God has given us a formula for praying for our nation even in our current situation right in His Word. We are pointed once again to the verses in 2 Chronicles 7:13-14 “If I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or if I command the locust to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among My people, and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” As His people, these are conditions that we must meet for the healing of our land: humility, prayer, seeking His face, and turning from our wicked ways. 

Jesus echoed this by His example (Philippians 2:5-11), “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Lord, please heal our land.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 48 (Wednesday)

Encouragement Post #49 - First of all, thank you all for your prayers! I am definitely better today. I love this Psalm and it has really been on my mind today for some reason... maybe it's for you.

Psalm 63
1 O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly;
My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You,
In a dry and weary land where there is no water.
2 Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary,
To see Your power and Your glory.
3 Because Your lovingkindness is better than life,
My lips will praise You.
4 So I will bless You as long as I live;
I will lift up my hands in Your name.
5 My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness,
And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips.

6 When I remember You on my bed,
I meditate on You in the night watches,
7 For You have been my help,
And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.
8 My soul clings to You;
Your right hand upholds me.
9 But those who seek my life to destroy it,
Will go into the depths of the earth.
10 They will be delivered over to the power of the sword;
They will be a prey for foxes.
11 But the king will rejoice in God;
Everyone who swears by Him will glory,
For the mouths of those who speak lies will be stopped.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 48 (Tuesday)

My soul waits for the Lord... If you were wondering where the encouragement posts went these past few days, I have been battling a pretty nasty diverticulitis attack with a tremendous amount of pain and honestly just haven't felt much like looking at a computer. But God is faithful, whether I feel like it or not. I am so grateful for His love and His word. I am hoping to feel better soon, but He SO ministered to my heart through Psalm 130 this morning. When I opened my YouVersion Bible app, I discovered it was today's reading. It was as if He were speaking the words directly to me. And the marvelous thing about Him and His word is that He can speak to you just as personally through the same words.

Psalm 130
1 Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord.
2 Lord, hear my voice!
Let Your ears be attentive
To the voice of my supplications.
3 If You, Lord, should mark iniquities,
O Lord, who could stand?
4 But there is forgiveness with You,
That You may be feared.
5 I wait for the Lord, my soul does wait,
And in His word do I hope.
6 My soul waits for the Lord
More than the watchmen for the morning;
Indeed, more than the watchmen for the morning.
7 O Israel, hope in the Lord;
For with the Lord there is lovingkindness,
And with Him is abundant redemption.
8 And He will redeem Israel
From all his iniquities.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 47 (Friday)

2 Corinthians 4:6 "For God, who said, “Light shall shine out of darkness,” is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ."

Romans 5:1-2 "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God."

Matthew 11:28-30 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."

Captivate Us
by Watermark

Your face is beautiful
And Your eyes are like the stars
Your gentle hands have healing
There inside the scars
Your loving arms they draw me near
And Your smile it brings me peace
Draw me closer oh my Lord
Draw me closer Lord to Thee

Captivate us Lord Jesus set our eyes on You
Devastate us with your presence falling down
And rushing river draw us nearer
Holy fountain consume us with You
Captivate us Lord Jesus with You

Your voice is powerful
And Your words are radiant bright
In Your breath and shadow
I will come close and abide
You whisper love and life divine
And Your fellowship is free
Draw us closer oh my Lord
Draw me closer Lord to thee

Captivate us Lord Jesus set our eyes on You
Devastate us with Your presence falling down
And rushing river draw us nearer
Holy fountain consume us with You
Captivate us Lord Jesus with You

And let everything be lost in the shadows
Of the light of your face
And let every chain be broken from me
As I'm bound in Your grace
For Your yoke is easy Your burden is light
You're full of wisdom power and might
And every eye will see You
And captivate us Lord Jesus with You
Captivate us

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 46 (Thursday)

I am always just amazed at just HOW alive and active God's word is. It is never dull, always applicable, and always encourages me... God's promises are true and "yes" in Christ! If you love the Word, you probably already know this song by Sara Groves titled (not coincidentally) "The Word." If you don't know it, well there's no better time than right now to get acquainted.

"For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us." - 2 Corinthians 1:20

"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." - Hebrews 4:12

A very special place built by a very special man, my grandfather (dad's dad). This was his oasis from the cares of the world where he could garden, fish, cook, putter, and generally lose himself in the beauty. I spent untold hours here as a young person, and I can still hear him saying "Hey Squeege!" (his affectionate name for me) when he saw me coming around the corner. So thankful for this beautiful place and that is still being enjoyed by his family. It's hard to believe that I did this piece as a gift to my dad for Christmas over 11 years ago...

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 45 (Wednesday)

Encouragement Post #45 (Wednesday) - Let Your kingdom come...

Psalm 103:19-22
"The Lord has established His throne in the heavens,
And His sovereignty rules over all.
Bless the Lord, you His angels,
Mighty in strength, who perform His word,
Obeying the voice of His word!
Bless the Lord, all you His hosts,
You who serve Him, doing His will.
Bless the Lord, all you works of His,
In all places of His dominion;
Bless the Lord, O my soul!"

My Encouragement Music YouTube List

For anyone who might be just interested in listening to the songs I am linking here in a list, I have created a YouTube list that is growing longer each day. You can find all the songs here:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXGZcicnEddKCr4BmIj7f042lsv2kECYu

YouTube Encouragement

44 songs so far, and counting...

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 44 (Tuesday)

Encouragement Post #44 (Tuesday) - Do you know? I do...
“As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, And at the last He will take His stand on the earth." (Job 19:25)
"Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous sins; let them not rule over me; then I will be blameless, and I shall be acquitted of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:13-14)

O Lord, My Rock and My Redeemer
by Sovereign Grace Music

VERSE 1
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer
Greatest treasure of my longing soul
My God, like You there is no other
True delight is found in You alone
Your grace, a well too deep to fathom
Your love exceeds the heavens’ reach
Your truth, a fount of perfect wisdom
My highest good and my unending need

VERSE 2
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer
Strong defender of my weary heart
My sword to fight the cruel deceiver
And my shield against his hateful darts
My song when enemies surround me
My hope when tides of sorrow rise
My joy when trials are abounding
Your faithfulness, my refuge in the night

VERSE 3
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer
Gracious Savior of my ruined life
My guilt and cross laid on Your shoulders
In my place You suffered bled and died
You rose, the grave and death are conquered
You broke my bonds of sin and shame
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer
May all my days bring glory to Your Name

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 43 (Monday)

Encouragement Post #43 (Monday) - Let Your kingdom come...

Matthew 6:9-10
"Our Father in heaven, hallowed by Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."

Messiah
by Twila Paris

For all you are, All you have done
We worship you, Eternal one
Savior and Lord, Forevermore
You are Messiah

Down on our knees, Bleeding as one
Together we pray, Your kingdom will come
In Heaven and Earth, Your will be done
You are Messiah

Chorus:
Let your kingdom come (x3)
You are Messiah
Let your kingdom come (x3)
You are Messiah

Radiant hope, We long for you
Deep in our hearts, Your word is true
Be lifted up, In all we do
You are Messiah
(Chorus)

For all you are, All you have done
We worship you, Eternal one
You are the Lord, Forevermore
You are Messiah
Let your kingdom come (x7)
You are Messiah
Let your kingdom come (x3)
You are Messiah (x4)

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 42 (Sunday)

Encouragement Post – Day #42 (Sunday) Today began with worshiping our great God with our church family (via Zoom). What a wonderful blessing to see each other’s faces, to sing with one another, and to be fed from God’s word together. We walk together, by faith. We encourage each other, by faith. We trust that our God is working all things together for our good and for His glory, by faith. Without faith, we have no hope because without faith it is impossible to please God. But by faith, we believe that He holds our lives and our ultimate reward of being with Him forever in His all powerful and all loving hands.

Hebrews 11:6 “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 41 (Saturday)

Encouragement Post #41 (Saturday) After a wonderful morning at our church's Annual Conference, I am looking forward to worship with our church family tomorrow morning. Our message will be on the holiness of God. Did you know that Hebrews 12:14 says, "Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord." Holiness is pretty important to our great God, and we cannot manufacture it on our own. We have to trust Him to give it to us. Our Holy God wants to give us His holiness, and He can only do this when we accept the willing sacrifice of Jesus as payment for our unrighteousness. 

Only a Holy God
by City Alight

"Who else commands all the hosts of heaven
Who else could make every king bow down
Who else can whisper and darkness trembles
Only a Holy God

What other beauty demands such praises
What other splendour outshines the sun
What other majesty rules with justice
Only a Holy God

Come and behold Him
The One and the Only
Cry out, sing holy
Forever a Holy God
Come and worship the Holy God

What other glory consumes like fire
What other power can raise the dead
What other name remains undefeated
Only a Holy God

Who else could rescue me from my failing
Who else would offer His only Son
Who else invites me to call Him Father
Only a Holy God
Only my Holy God!"

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 40 (Friday)

Encouragement Post – Day #40 (Friday) Now more than ever, I think it is increasingly clearer that our worth does not depend on what we own. Nor does it depend on our own strength. These beautiful lyrics are in the song I linked below, "Two wonders here that I confess, My worth and my unworthiness; My value fixed - my ransom paid, At the cross." These days are teaching me over and over again that my worth is completely in Him... He is my greatest treasure and the ONLY thing in this world that can truly satisfy my soul. Have you considered the magnitude of these words from Psalm 82, "No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly"?

Psalm 82:1-2, 4-5, 11-12
“How lovely are Your dwelling places,
O Lord of hosts!
My soul longed and even yearned for the courts of the Lord;
My heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God.

How blessed are those who dwell in Your house!
They are ever praising You. Selah.
How blessed is the man whose strength is in You,
In whose heart are the highways to Zion!

For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
The Lord gives grace and glory;
No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
O Lord of hosts,
How blessed is the man who trusts in You!”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 39 (Thursday)

Encouragement Post #39 (Thursday) "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it." John 1:1-5

New Every Morning
by Audrey Assad

In the beginning You hovered over the waters:
You broke an unbroken silence: You spoke light into darkness
And there was light

In the beginning we were made in Your image
We were naked without shame til we fell for the darkness
And there was night

Your mercies are new
Your mercies are new
New every morning.

In the beginning there was the Word and he was God
And the Word was with God and He dwelt among us
And there was life

In the beginning the Lamb of God was broken
And His blood was poured out for the sins of the world
And there was life

At the cross, at the cross, where I first saw the light
At the cross, at the cross, I received my sight
At the cross, at the cross where you laid down your life

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 38 (Wednesday)

Turn your eyes upon Jesus; look full in His wonderful face…

Hebrews 12:1-3 “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 37 (Tuesday)

Do you love surprises? I thought these Tiffany hybrid tea roses had long since kicked the bucket. I haven't seen them produce in several years, and truthfully had let the foliage around them grow up over them because they weren't getting enough sun. But today I just happened to be peeking around in the shrubbery, and what to my wondering eyes should appear... two HUGE pink blossoms on the longest stems, almost over my head. These beauties were just begging to be brought inside and enjoyed... God's beautiful creation never disappoints. The lavender sweet William in the vase is a wonderful accent and smells heavenly along with the fruity fragrance of the Tiffany roses and the color is perfect with my smaller pink knockout roses!

 

 

 

Encouragement Post – Day #37 (Tuesday) All creation sings of His majesty…

Psalm 104:1-3, 10-12, 19, 31-33
“Bless the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord my God, You are very great;
You are clothed with splendor and majesty,
Covering Yourself with light as with a cloak,
Stretching out heaven like a tent curtain. 
He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters;
He makes the clouds His chariot;
He walks upon the wings of the wind…

He sends forth springs in the valleys;
They flow between the mountains;
They give drink to every beast of the field;
The wild donkeys quench their thirst.
Beside them the birds of the heavens dwell;
They lift up their voices among the branches…

He made the moon for the seasons;
The sun knows the place of its setting…

Let the glory of the Lord endure forever;
Let the Lord be glad in His works;
He looks at the earth, and it trembles;
He touches the mountains, and they smoke.
I will sing to the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 36 (Monday)

Encouragement Post – Day #36 (Monday) Let them say among the nations, "The LORD reigns…"

1 Chronicles 16:29-34
“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name;
Bring an offering, and come before Him;
Worship the Lord in holy array.
Tremble before Him, all the earth;
Indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved.
Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;
And let them say among the nations, “The Lord reigns.”
Let the sea roar, and all it contains;
Let the field exult, and all that is in it.
Then the trees of the forest will sing for joy before the Lord;
For He is coming to judge the earth.
O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 35 (Sunday)

Encouragement Post – Day #35 (Sunday) Another Sunday… the fifth Sunday with our faith community not meeting in person. It’s still so good to be able to meet through Zoom and SEE faces, have a few minutes to chat and catch up, and check in and really see how everyone is doing. And, we heard a wonderful message of the HOPE of our Savior! There is hope in no one but Jesus. This isn’t a hope that is like a wish, this is a SURE and STEADFAST hope. A LIVING hope!

Hebrews 6:16-20 “For men swear by one greater than themselves, and with them an oath given as confirmation is an end of every dispute. In the same way God, desiring even more to show to the heirs of the promise the unchangeableness of His purpose, interposed with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.”

1 Peter 1:3-5 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."

Living Hope
By Phil Wickham

How great the chasm that lay between us
How high the mountain I could not climb
In desperation, I turned to heaven
And spoke Your name into the night
Then through the darkness, Your loving-kindness
Tore through the shadows of my soul
The work is finished, the end is written
Jesus Christ, my living hope

Who could imagine so great a mercy?
What heart could fathom such boundless grace?
The God of ages stepped down from glory
To wear my sin and bear my shame
The cross has spoken, I am forgiven
The King of kings calls me His own
Beautiful Savior, I'm Yours forever
Jesus Christ, my living hope

Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free
Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me
You have broken every chain
There's salvation in Your name
Jesus Christ, my living hope

Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free
Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me
You have broken every chain
There's salvation in Your name
Jesus Christ, my living hope

Then came the morning that sealed the promise
Your buried body began to breathe
Out of the silence, the Roaring Lion
Declared the grave has no claim on me
Then came the morning that sealed the promise
Your buried body began to breathe
Out of the silence, the Roaring Lion
Declared the grave has no claim on me
Jesus, Yours is the victory, whoa!

Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free
Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me
You have broken every chain
There's salvation in Your name
Jesus Christ, my living hope

Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free
Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me
You have broken every chain
There's salvation in Your name
Jesus Christ, my living hope
Jesus Christ, my living hope
Oh God, You are my living hope

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 34 (Saturday)

Encouragement Post – Day #34 (Saturday) Here’s one from way back… I do love this man’s music. Keith Green is walking in the presence of Jesus now, but for his brief time on this earth he surely made an impact. I wanted to post something a little fun and upbeat, yet truthful to the core… so here you go. So many naysayers down through the years have tried to discourage God's people from simply obeying what God has told us to do. But, if we believe and receive, we'll find the comfort we need… and HE WILL take care of the rest.

John 1:12-13 “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.”

Ephesians 4:19-20 “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.”
This is from a live performance he gave – and wow, what energy (and even a little snarkiness at the beginning)! Makes me tired just watching him.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 33 (Friday)

Encouragement Post – Day #33 (Friday) Light at the end of the tunnel? We are hearing of businesses getting to re-open and people getting the “okay” to go out in small groups again, albeit in slow doses. This is very good news. Yet, still we are to be very cautious as we venture out there. We still need guidance, but mostly we just need to trust that God has numbered our days and that He cares about us even more than we could possibly care about ourselves.

Does your soul find itself filled with worry or care? “Take courage. Consider the stars… when it is darkest, they shine out the brightest… He Who made all of this, says you’re worth more than this and holds you in His hands.” I have called this beautiful song a lullaby for adults… it is another one that just washes over my whole being with peace, truth, and grace. Whenever I feel anxious, especially if at night, I just put it on repeat and my pulse inevitably slows as I consider that the One Who hung the stars holds me in His hand.

Consider the Stars
by Keith and Kristyn Getty, featuring John Patitucci

Consider the stars in the sky;
Look up and wonder, can you count their number?
Consider the stars in the sky;
Umbrella to hide in, a dance floor of heaven.
Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid

Consider the stars in the sky;
When it is darkest they shine out the brightest
Consider the stars in the sky
In every anguish, Oh, child take courage
Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid

He who made all of this, and who holds all of this,
Holds you in his hands
Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid

Consider the stars in the sky;
Diamond in a ring. Over the Child King.
Consider the stars in the sky;
Grace He had promised, coming to find us
Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid

He who made all of this, says "You're worth more than this,"
And holds you in his hands.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 32 (Thursday)

Encouragement Post – Day #32 (Thursday) My God is the Ancient of Days… the lyrics (listed for you below) are rich and filled with the truth of the Word about who God is, and they are really just so perfect for the moments we are living right now.

Ancient of Days
by City Alight

Though the nations rage
Kingdoms rise and fall
There is still one King
Reigning over all
So I will not fear for this truth remains:
That my God is the Ancient of Days

Chorus
None above Him, none before Him
All of time in His hands
For His throne it shall remain and ever stand
All the power, all the glory
I will trust in His name
For my God is the Ancient of Days

Though the dread of night
Overwhelms my soul
He is here with me
I am not alone
O His love is sure and He knows my name
For my God is the Ancient of Days

Chorus

Though I may not see
What the future brings
I will watch and wait
For the Saviour King
Then my joy complete standing face to face
In the presence of the Ancient of Days

Chorus

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 31 (Wednesday)

Encouragement Post – Day #31 (Wednesday) WHO is like our God?

Psalm 113

"Praise the Lord!
Praise, O servants of the Lord,
Praise the name of the Lord.
Blessed be the name of the Lord
From this time forth and forever.
From the rising of the sun to its setting
The name of the Lord is to be praised.
The Lord is high above all nations;
His glory is above the heavens.

Who is like the Lord our God,
Who is enthroned on high,
Who humbles Himself to behold
The things that are in heaven and in the earth?
He raises the poor from the dust
And lifts the needy from the ash heap,
To make them sit with princes,
With the princes of His people.
He makes the barren woman abide in the house
As a joyful mother of children.
Praise the Lord!"

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 30 (Tuesday)

Encouragement Post – Day #30 (Tuesday) Today started out with the melancholies for me. Does that ever happen to you, or is it just me? Some days I am just downcast for no particular (or at least discernible) reason. For it to have been such a sunny day, made it all the more odd for me to feel this way. Too often, I operate based on how I am feeling. But, through the years I have learned to do this less and less. God gives us emotions for a purpose, but if we are driven by them we will be like a ship tossed at sea. Instead, I have learned over time to trust His voice and His word over my feelings. It takes some training, but with the help of the Helper (the Holy Spirit) who lives in us it IS possible. He is our Fuel Source living on the inside, powering our inner engines so that we rely on Truth rather than our fickle feelings.

John 14:16-17 “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.”

John 14:26 “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.”

John 16:13-15 “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you.”

Holy Spirit, Living Breath of God
by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend

Holy Spirit, living Breath of God,
Breathe new life into my willing soul.
Bring the presence of the risen Lord
To renew my heart and make me whole.
Cause Your Word to come alive in me;
Give me faith for what I cannot see;
Give me passion for Your purity.
Holy Spirit, breathe new life in me.

Holy Spirit, come abide within;
May Your joy be seen in all I do—
Love enough to cover ev’ry sin
In each thought and deed and attitude,
Kindness to the greatest and the least,
Gentleness that sows the path of peace.
Turn my striving into works of grace.
Breath of God, show Christ in all I do.

Holy Spirit, from creation’s birth,
Giving life to all that God has made,
Show Your power once again on earth;
Cause Your church to hunger for Your ways.
Let the fragrance of our prayers arise.
Lead us on the road of sacrifice
That in unity the face of Christ
Will be clear for all the world to see.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 29 (Monday)

Encouragement Post – Day #29 (Monday) 29 days of distancing… really? It doesn’t seem possible. After such a high high on Easter Sunday where it truly felt like all the world was worshiping our risen Christ, we are back to the “everyday” things of Monday. Just like the disciples, we have gone back to the normal things (well, the new normal… whatever that is right now.) And while it may feel mundane after 29 days of doing this, still there is “wonder” in the everyday. There are babies being born, there are marriages being restored, there are hurts – both physical and emotional – being healed, there are flowers blooming and dying, there are new books being conceived, there are new songs being written, there are art pieces being created, there are computer programs being constructed, and those are the "big" things. There are also first breaths of the new day being taken, coffee and first morning light being savored, morning greetings being given to family, meals being cooked or ordered, houses being cleaned, flower arrangements being put on tables, lessons being taught to children by moms and dads, groceries being bought, birthday gifts being given, prayers being lifted… the list goes on and on. These are the “everyday miracles” that keep our hope alive and help us to survive... and joy comes from these things when we keep our eyes fixed on Him.

Everyday Miracles
by Sara Groves

It's the everyday miracles that keep my hope alive
It's the way You move in little things that help me survive
And I know You move in greater ways
But this is great enough for me
What You do with my everyday is amazing

The things that seem impossible, I lay down at Your feet
And just when I am needing most You are there for me
And I know you've made the lame to walk
And caused the blind to see
But what You do with my everyday is amazing

When I'm down on my knees
And I can't make it through
When it's up to me
It's really up to You

When I'm down on my knees
And I can't make it through
When it's up to me
It's really up to You

And I know You move in much greater ways
But this is great enough for me
What You do with my everyday is amazing
What You do with my everyday is simply amazing

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 28 (Resurrection Sunday)

Encouragement Post – Day #28 (Sunday) He is not dead… He lives! So many eyewitnesses testified to His resurrection. We have it written down in four different accounts in the gospels. But we don’t only have the testimony of those who were there at the time of His death and resurrection, but also the testimony of all those down through the years who have given their lives to Him. The power of the resurrection did not stop on that first Sunday, but it has continued to live on this earth in the lives of those who are His. On our own, we have no power over sin and over death. It is only by His power working in us that we can overcome sin and the grave. That is something for which we should worship and celebrate Him every day! There is no power – none -- that can rival His resurrection power.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 27 (Saturday)

Encouragement Post – Day #27 (Saturday) Pausing today to think… what must it have been like for the disciples after the crucifixion? They had left family, community, and livelihood to follow Jesus. They had been with Him for three years. What did His death accomplish, they must have wondered? It is clear that although He had told them what was coming, they still did not understand. Even after He took the time to explain, even after He washed their feet, even after they heard Him pray for them in the garden, even though they had seen Him perform the miracles with their own eyes, even though they had heard the prophets preached all their lives from the book of Isaiah and Psalms and Jeremiah and others… after the crucifixion, they still did not understand.

Are you in between wanting to believe and truly understanding what Jesus did for you? Are you wondering if this could really be true? If you are, you are not alone. We have all been there at one point or another. It is the place of “just before” and it requires either walking through the door of faith or leaving it behind. It is a choice. Will you choose to walk through that door to believing and receiving the greatest Gift ever given. He offers it so freely …salvation, forgiveness from sin, eternal life, resurrection, abundance, everlasting joy and more are waiting for you on the other side! Best of all, you can come as you are. He promises to accept you but not to leave you “as you are.” Instead, He will give you His robe of righteousness.

“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” – John 1:12-13

The Robe
by Wes King

Anyone whose heart is cold and lonely,
Anyone who can't believe and
Anyone whose hands are worn and empty,
Come as you are.

Anyone whose feet are tired of walking,
And even lost their will to run,
There is a place of rest for your aching soul;
Come as you are.

FOR THE ROBE IS OF GOD
THAT WILL CLOTHE YOUR NAKEDNESS.
AND THE ROBE IS HIS GRACE; IT'S ALL YOU NEED,
COME AS YOU ARE.

Anyone who feels that they're unworthy,
Anyone who's just afraid, come sinner,
Come and receive His mercy.
Come, come as you are.

CHORUS

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 26 (Friday)

Encouragement Post – Day #26 (Good Friday) I could sit and listen to Phil Keaggy play his guitar for hours.He is such a gifted musician. But as you listen, meditate on these lyrics if you will; this is a simple hymn with rich and meaningful lyrics.

"What language shall I borrow to thank Thee dearest Friend for this Thy dying sorrow, Thy pity without end. O make me Thine forever! And should I fainting be, Lord let me never, never outlive my love for Thee."

O Sacred Head
attributed to Bernard of Clairveaux

O sacred Head, now wounded,
with grief and shame weighed down;
now scornfully surrounded
with thorns, thine only crown;
O sacred Head, what glory,
what bliss 'til now was thine!
Yet, though despised and gory,
I joy to call thee mine.

What thou, my Lord, hast suffered
was all for sinners' gain:
mine, mine was the transgression,
but thine the deadly pain.
Lo, here I fall, my Savior!
'Tis I deserve thy place;
look on me with thy favor,
vouchsafe to me thy grace.

What language shall I borrow
to thank thee, dearest Friend,
for this, thy dying sorrow,
thy pity without end?
O make me thine forever;
and should I fainting be,
Lord, let me never, never
outlive my love to thee.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 25 (Thusday)

Encouragement Post – Day #25 (Thursday) Beautiful song filled with truth… perfect for this week. Glorious Day!

Romans 8:31-39 “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Who will bring a charge against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies; who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Just as it is written, 'For Your sake we are being put to death all day long; We were considered as sheep to be slaughtered.'But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 24 (Wednesday)

Encouragement Post – Day #24 (Wednesday) Our church had a meaningful and yet very unusual service of Holy Communion tonight together, while each in our own homes, commemorating what Jesus commanded us to do until He comes again. We drink. We eat. And we remember.

Luke 22:15-20 “And He said to them, “I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I say to you, I shall never again eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He said, “Take this and share it among yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine from now on until the kingdom of God comes.” And when He had taken some bread and given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” And in the same way He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood.”

This is a wonderful song about our sacrament by Keith & Kristyn Getty and Stuart Townend. The version I have attached has lyrics and is pretty easy to sing along with.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 23 (Tuesday)

Encouragement Post – Day #23 (Tuesday) This is a beautiful song of the cross, written a good number of years ago now by Babbie Mason… what a gifted artist! This song is so, so beautiful in its truth and in its art. “Whenever I resist it, I am not at rest. It hovers there inviting me to be a humble guest. I need it daily, this I know. So, with my selfish tears in tow and with my fighting fears I go to the cross.”

A perfect meditation for Holy Week…

To the Cross
by Babbie Mason

A place inside my spirit
Beckons from a hill
Sometimes I choose to visit
Sometimes against my will
I take the long and sloping road
As though I hear some rooster crow
And driven by a prayer I go
To the cross

Whenever I resist it
I am not at rest
It hovers there inviting me
To be a humble guest
I need it daily this I know
So with my selfish tears in tow
And with my fighting fears I go
To the cross

And there I lay them down
For the Savior's love
Because He gave His flawless life
I take it up

And so I will determine
This cross to be my friend
And I will bear it in my heart
Until my pride is dead
Part of me will tell it no
But Christ was there before me so
I'll follow faithfully and go
To the cross
I'll follow faithfully and go
To the cross

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 22 (Monday)

Encouragement Post – Day #22 (Monday) Knees To the Earth … I owe my life to You, my Lord. Here I am.
 
” Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints.” Ephesians 6:13-18

Knees To the Earth
by Watermark (Christy Nockels)

Wonderful Savior
My heart belongs to Thee
I will remember always the blood You shed for me
Wonderful Savior
My heart will know Your worth
So I will embrace You always as I walk this earth

Be blessed, be loved, be lifted high
Be treasured here
Be glorified
I owe my life to You my Lord
Here I am
Beautiful Jesus
How may I bless Your heart?
Knees to the earth I bow down to everything You are

Beautiful Jesus
You are my only worth
So let me embrace You always as I walk this earth
Be blessed, be loved, be lifted high
Be treasured here
Be glorified
I owe my life to You my Lord
Here I am

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 21 (Palm Sunday)

Encouragement Post - Day #21 (Sunday) This is one of my very favorite new worship songs. It tells my story. Does it tell yours?

Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me."





In our neighborhood, we wanted to display outwardly that we were celebrating Palm Sunday even though we were not gathering in our places of worship to do that.  So, we chose to put some greenery tied with a red ribbon on our front door (pretty much just stuck in the wreath).

 

Hosanna in the highest!

 

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 20 (Saturday)

Encouragement Post – Day #20 (Saturday) Why do we celebrate Palm Sunday? We know that it is not really about the palm branches, but rather it is about the One who chose to ride on the foal of a donkey over those branches knowing He was riding to His death. He is worthy of our worship because He chose to ride down the road of death for me and for you so that we could truly have a relationship with (not just knowledge about) the Most High God. Even while we were sinning and mocking Him, He chose that road. Even while we wanted nothing other than to satisfy our selfish desires, He chose that road. Even while we put our ambition before His glory, He chose that road. Even when we were choosing our own death, He chose that road to give us life. He is worthy of my every breath and all my praise. Hosanna in the highest! 

Romans 5:6-10 “For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 19 (Friday)

Encouragement Post – Day #19 (Friday) Today has been a long day, but I finally finished a project I have been working on for a long time. I am really thankful to have it finished, and I am looking forward to the next one now. Do you ever just get stuck? Like you just can’t move forward for fear of messing up? In “life” this doesn’t happen to me very often, but sometimes it does with art projects. But today I had someone tell me they were praying for me and gave me words of encouragement that I could do it. And that is exactly what happened. I am thankful for encouragement, and I want to pass that along to you. Whatever you are doing, working on, trying to accomplish… I am praying that God would show you the way, and I believe you can do it!

Ephesians 3:20-21 "Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen."

I am continuing to pray for our community, our nation, and our world. May God intervene in this process and give wisdom to those who are making decisions. HE IS able! To Him be the glory in (us) the church in Christ Jesus to ALL generations forever and ever.

Encouragement Post – Coronavirus Distancing Day 18 (Thursday)

Encouragement Post – Day #18 (Thursday) Really, really familiar words... but no less powerful because of their familiarity.

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd, (He takes responsibility for me)
I shall not want. (I have everything I need)
He makes me lie down in green pastures; (this allows me to rest in a wide open and beautiful space)
He leads me beside quiet waters. (among some of the most soothing sounds of His creation)
He restores my soul; (He makes the broken places in my heart and soul whole again)
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake. (Because He desires honor for His name, He leads His children faithfully toward right paths)

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me; (wherever I am, in whatever situation no matter how perilous or difficult, there is no need to fear because You are WITH me ...and not just *with* me but as Immanuel You are *IN* me)
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. (You are perfectly equipped with the ability to prod... a gentle nudge with the rod, to lead... with a hook around my neck if necessary, and to protect me by using the rod or staff as a weapon)
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; (because I am Yours, you feed me from the abundance of Your own table, the King's table, even when my enemies would seek to do me harm)

You have anointed my head with oil; (You cover me with gladness, with a pleasing fragrance before the Father, with salve for protection from disease and pestilence)
My cup overflows. (You freely give me abundant life beyond anything I could imagine)
Surely goodness and lovingkindness
will follow me all the days of my life, (Your goodness and lovingkindness will always, always, always be with me)
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. (I will live in Your safe and magnificent abode forever.)

Encouragement Post – Coronavirus Distancing Day 17 (Wednesday)

Encouragement Post – Day #17 (Wednesday) Let the power of these words wash over you.

Psalm 27

“The Lord is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the defense of my life;
Whom shall I dread?
When evildoers came upon me to devour my flesh,
My adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell.
Though a host encamp against me,
My heart will not fear;
Though war arise against me,
In spite of this I shall be confident.

One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the Lord
And to meditate in His temple.
For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle;
In the secret place of His tent He will hide me;
He will lift me up on a rock.
And now my head will be lifted up above my enemies around me,
And I will offer in His tent sacrifices with shouts of joy;
I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.

Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice,
And be gracious to me and answer me.
When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You,
“Your face, O Lord, I shall seek.”
Do not hide Your face from me,
Do not turn Your servant away in anger;
You have been my help;
Do not abandon me nor forsake me,
O God of my salvation!
For my father and my mother have forsaken me,
But the Lord will take me up.

Teach me Your way, O Lord,
And lead me in a level path
Because of my foes.
Do not deliver me over to the desire of my adversaries,
For false witnesses have risen against me,
And such as breathe out violence.
I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord
In the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord;
Be strong and let your heart take courage;
Yes, wait for the Lord.”

Encouragement Post – Coronavirus Distancing Day 16 (Tuesday)

Encouragement Post – Day #16 (Tuesday) Contentment can be elusive in times like this. But, in 1 Timothy 6:6-7 we are told “But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either.” We don’t really have the power to make sure that everything in our lives goes the way it should. But when we surrender our lives to the One who knows us best, loves us most, and always provides everything we need – the One who actually does have control – we can find real contentment and true peace.

Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Be anxious for nothing but in everything through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which passes all comprehension will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

So, I am to worry about NO thing, and I am to pray about EVERY thing while being thankful to the Lord for His care. And, He promises that if I do these things, He will guard my heart by giving me a peace that goes far beyond my ability to comprehend it.

Hebrews 13:5, “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” He will never, not ever, no never leave me.

Isaiah 26:3 “The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.” PERFECT peace.

I am thankful that He did not leave us without a roadmap to peace, but He has given us His beautiful Word to show us how to find peace and contentment, even in times like these.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 15 (Monday)

Encouragement Post – Day #15 (Monday) Kindness is important. It is one of the 9 manifestations of the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, KINDNESS, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control). It is something that should really come easily, yet for many it doesn’t. It doesn’t cost you anything. I am thankful for the kindness of God toward me. I didn’t deserve it, but He showed it to me anyway.

Romans 2:4 asks, “Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?”

And then Titus 3:3-5 gives us even more evidence of God’s kindness, “For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another. But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit.”

Because of His kindness to me, I now have the power – through the Holy Spirit working in my life – to be kind to others. So, I am thinking about and praying about ways to be kind and people to whom I can show the kindness of God.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 14 (Sunday)

Encouragement Post #14: (Sunday) Our time of worship this morning was wonderful and warm, and we are all settling in with the temporary new normal of church via computer. I am thankful for technology that provides a way for us to see one another’s faces while physically remaining separate. There is glory in those faces. Though it is limited for now, it is unmistakable on the faces of those who know the Lord. We were reminded of the glory of God in our message today from John chapter 11, by the fact that the reason Jesus delayed going back to Judea for three days after He found out that Lazarus was ill was so that those who believed in Him would see God’s glory.

Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” Do you want to see the power of resurrection and the glory of God? You will, if you truly believe. 2 Corinthians 3:18 “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 13 (Saturday)

Encouragement Post #13: I am excited that tomorrow our message will be on the power of resurrection. I think we all could use a reminder that there is a power that is so far beyond what we can imagine while we're here on this sin-sick, chaos driven earth. We can imagine miracles and people who are sick becoming well, whether miraculously or through a doctor's intervention. But, to really understand resurrection power -- the power to actually defeat death and cause life -- is beyond our scope. Death is NOT the end. I am thankful for the words of Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Peter, Paul, and others who risked their lives so that we would have eyewitness testimony of His power to raise Lazarus and the power of His own resurrection. He IS the resurrection and the life.... and He is worthy of our worship.

John 11:24-26 "Martha said to Him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 12 (Friday)

Encouragement Post #12: (Friday... at least for a few more minutes ;) ) It's late, and it has been a busy day. Work still has to happen, even in quarantine. So, I have been pretty hard at it for most of today. I was thinking about work and its meaning just the other day... have you ever wondered if the work you are doing really matters? I imagine if you're a teacher, doctor, nurse, firefighter, military, etc. you might not question that. But, what about other things like creating music, growing a garden, sewing your children's clothes, writing poetry, making food for a needy neighbor, taking care of an elderly parent, taking care of your grandchild(ren), teaching others "how to", praying for those you love, or even leaving an encouraging word on Facebook, etc. The list goes on and on.

Whatever the work might be, what you are doing right this minute, today, has purpose, value, and meaning. How can you be sure of this? This may sound like an oversimplification, but if that were not the case you would not be here. Until the Lord takes us home, He has a purpose for the work we do. So, during these days at home, when it seems like your days, hours, and minutes feel a bit purposeless at times, be assured they are not. You are God's poem... a unique, original, one-of-a-kind work of art. Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them." Did you know that the Greek word for "workmanship" in this verse is *poeima* ...we are His poem, His masterpiece, His one of a kind work of art. Let that sink in...

The Poem of Your Life
by Michael Card

Life is a song we must sing with our days
A poem with meaning more than words can say
A painting with colors no rainbow can tell
A lyric that rhymes either Heaven or Hell

We are living letters that doubt desecrates
We're the notes of the song of the chorus of faith
God shapes every second of our little lives
And minds every minute as the universe waits by

CHORUS:
The pain and the longing
The joy and the moments of light
Are the rhythm and rhyme
The free verse of the poem of life

So look in the mirror and pray for the grace
To tear off the mask, see the art of your face
And open your ear lids to hear the sweet song
Of each moment that passes and pray to prolong

Your time in the ball of the dance of your days
Your canvas of colors of moments ablaze
With all that is holy
With the joy and the strife
With the rhythm and rhyme of the poem of your life
With the rhythm and rhyme of the poem of your life

Chorus

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 11 (Thursday)

Encouragement Post #11: (Thursday) Today I am thankful …for sunshine! Doctors tell us that the sun has a powerful effect on ourimmune systems. I am no doctor, but I am buying into that one hook, line, and sinker. We need it, whether it’s getting out for a walk, gardening, doing some outdoor sporting activity, or just walking around our house/apartment building/dwelling a couple of times. God made us to need vitamin D, and the sun automatically replenishes it, boosts endorphins
(natural pain killers in the body), and boosts serotonin (naturally occurring substance in our body that makes us feel good) for us.

“…seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertainingto life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.” (2 Peter 1:3) This current quarantine, on the heels of what seemed like a gazillion days of rain, could be really impacting our moods and hence impacting our ability to fight off …whatever. 😉 So, getting out and getting just some sun each day is one cost-free way of doing that.

While I am writing this (having just come back inside from a little time outdoors in this brilliantly sunny and feels-like-summer day), I dropped my new tablet (purchased just after Christmas) and the screen shattered. I purchased it from Costco and am hoping it’s under warranty. I got online to chat about it, and when I started I was number 723 in the queue 😳… it’s now down to 437 after 15 minutes. :D So, I am taking this time to post here. I am also taking this time to pray for all those in places of service, answering phones with people on the other end who are frazzled, frayed, and maybe at their wit’s end. I am praying for you, too. I would love the privilege of praying for
you.... what is something I can pray for you about? “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

Above are a few happy pictures from my yard, and I also wanted to share this song with you… a fun song that puts a spring in my step and fills my spirit with hope, thankfulness, and freedom.

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 10 (Wednesday)

Encouragement Post #10: (Wednesday) Today I am encouraging us to lift up the name of Jesus. Did you know that the Bible tells us that if we lift up His name, that He will draw all men to Himself? (John 12:32) Especially when things seem out of control and people feel caught in a spiral of uncertainty, we want all people to know that the only place TRUE peace is found is in knowing the Prince of peace.

Our ability to be at peace is strongly connected to who has the authority in our lives. When we sit on the throne of our own lives and grasp every bit of control we can, we know that things can spiral out of control very quickly. It doesn't take us long to figure out we don't really have much control at all (see coronavirus, cancer, 911, infertility, death, etc.) That is distinctly NOT peace. But, when we put our lives in the hands of the King of kings, Lord of lords, and Prince of peace, we can trust that HE has the ultimate authority to guide it just where He knows it should go and to work things together for our good and for His glory. Though for now He is allowing wars, famines, trials, plagues, dangers, sicknesses, etc. to take place on earth, we know that one day those things will cease. And whether or not people choose to bow to His authority now, it is a certainty that one day EVERY knee will bow and every tongue will proclaim that He is Lord:

"For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11)

He is giving us an amazing opportunity right now to lift up His Name. Today is the time to turn over the authority of our lives to Him. There is nowhere else to go… "And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

Excerpt from the song "What a Beautiful Name" by Brook Fraser Ligertwood and Ben Fielding "You have no rival, you have no equal; now and forever God You reign. Yours is the kingdom, yours is the glory; Yours is the name above all names."

...you can read about the scriptural inspiration behind the song here: https://hillsong.com/collected/blog/2017/05/scriptural-inspiration-behind-the-lyrics-of-what-a-beautiful-name/

The official Lyric Video for "What A Beautiful Name" from our new album 'let there be light'' recorded live at Hillsong Conference in Sydney! Get your copy n...

Encouragement Post - Coronavirus Distancing Day 9 (Tuesday)

Encouragement Post #9: (Tuesday) Finding myself THANKFUL today… for music. This is not unique to this particular situation, as DAILY I find myself thankful for the music that brings me such joy. In fact, for those of you who know me well, you know that I am pretty much constantly listening to it. In high school, I was always the one bringing the “boom box” to everything so that there would be music. I am pretty sure I drove my college roommates crazy playing my faves. My kids make fun of me because I have more music on my phone than they do (and because I have a song ready with a lyric to fit nearly every life situation). Isn’t it wonderful with new technology to be able to find almost any piece of music you want right at your fingertips? (My teenage self would have been crazy over the moon about that!!)

Music truly does permeate our soul… as you probably know, it is a most effective method for learning words, phrases, and things you need to know. Try to memorize something from rote and it can be a challenge, but set it to music and it's a piece of cake after a little rehearsing (thank you, School House Rock!!) Which makes it all the more important WHAT we are basically “cementing” into our minds. I can remember nearly every lyric to all those amazing pop songs from the 70s and 80s all these years later! It’s powerful. And these past days I have seen people posting all kinds of music, not a lot of secular music really, but mostly hymns and worship songs. It’s interesting to me… I love hymns so much because they are rich in truth about our God, but I also love the new hymns and worship music being written every day. As I have grown in my walk with the Lord, though, the most important part of any song is the lyric. I want to have an arsenal in my head, so that if I should ever not have the electronic means to listen I will have them at the ready. Did you know that for most dementia and Alzheimer’s patients, when they cannot remember anything else they can remember music. Amazing!

So, that’s why on each of my encouragement posts I have been including a song. It’s a command in scripture, right? “…speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:19) Today I am sharing one that is newer, but it is SO unique (a question and answer format) and SO filled with truth straight from God’s word. I am not sure there could be a MORE fitting song for this time.


Is He worthy?
by Andrew Peterson

Do you feel the world is broken? (We do)
Do you feel the shadows deepen? (We do)
But do you know that all the dark won't stop the light from getting through? (We do)
Do you wish that you could see it all made new? (We do)

Is all creation groaning? (It is)
Is a new creation coming? (It is)
Is the glory of the Lord to be the light within our midst? (It is)
Is it good that we remind ourselves of this? (It is)

Is anyone worthy? Is anyone whole?
Is anyone able to break the seal and open the scroll?
The Lion of Judah who conquered the grave
He is David's root and the Lamb who died to ransom the slave

Is He worthy? Is He worthy
Of all blessing and honor and glory?
Is He worthy of this?
He is

Does the Father truly love us? (He does)
Does the Spirit move among us? (He does)
And does Jesus, our Messiah, hold forever those He loves? (He does)
Does our God intend to dwell again with us? (He does)

Is anyone worthy? Is anyone whole?
Is anyone able to break the seal and open the scroll?
The Lion of Judah who conquered the grave
He is David's root and the Lamb who died to ransom the slave

From every people and tribe (People and tribe)
Every nation and tongue (Every nation and tongue)
He has made us a kingdom and priests to God
To reign with the Son

Is He worthy? Is He worthy
Of all blessing and honor and glory?
Is He worthy? Is He worthy?
Is He worthy of this?

He is, He is
Is He worthy? Is He worthy?
He is, He is
He is worthy, He is worthy
He is