KINDNESS OF GOD

 THE KINDNESS OF GOD!!!

Romans 2:4 (NLT) 

4 Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? 

Nothing moves me more to humility, tears and gratitude than the kindness of God. I know what I deserve, God's righteous judgement. The overwhelming reality of my unworthiness and yet my incredible worth to God can only be see and understood by the cross and Christ's suffering for my sin, which He did not deserve, but I do!

Ephesians 1:7-8 (NLT) 

7 He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. 8 He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding. 

How well the Scriptures explain this: "God showed how much he loved us (me) by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we (I) might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we  (I) loved God, but that he loved us (me) and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our (my) sins."  1 John 4:9-10 (NLT) 

Romans 5:8 (NLT) "But God showed his great love for us (me) by sending Christ to die for us (me) while we (I was) were still sinners." 

I cannot over emphasis how much this personal kindness of God means to me. Words simply fail. The Scriptures give insight and understanding into such glorious grace, magnificent mercy and immeasurable kindness.

Titus 3:4-5 (NLT)  "4 But—When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit." 

That is why the question is asked: "4 Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? 5 But because you are stubborn and refuse to turn from your sin, you are storing up terrible punishment for yourself. For a day of anger is coming, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed." Romans 2:4-5 (NLT)   

The Apostle Peter reminds us of God's kindness: " The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)  

And John reminds us of the great reason for God's kindness. “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life."  John 3:16 (NLT)  

The following song: "He Looked Beyond My Fault and Saw My Need" expresses the emotions of why I feel so deeply grateful for the wonderful kindness of the Triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

"Amazing grace will always be my song of praise,

For it was grace that brought me Liberty,

I do not know just why He came to love me so,

He looked beyond my fault and saw my need,

I shall forever lift my eyes to Calvary,

To view the cross where Jesus died for me,

How marvelous the grace that caught my falling soul,

He looked beyond fault and saw my need."

That you Father for Your kindness revealed at the Cross of Christ and the gracious forgiveness of all my sin. And for the Holy Spirit's indwelling presence. In the kind Name of Jesus my Savior and Lord. Amen.

GOD FEARING MAN

 A God-Fearing Man

Cornelius is helpful to me because I do not prefer to be called a man of God or a godly man. I feel totally inadequate for such a description. I can never measure up to that expectation. But I can pursue a godly life enabled by the Holy Spirit. So, my desire and prayer is to be a God-fearing man.  Cornelius is a wonderful example of what it means to be a God-fearing man. His story is beautiful and inspires my life!

Acts 10:1-8 (NLT) 

1 In Caesarea there lived a Roman army officer named Cornelius, who was a captain of the Italian Regiment. 2 He was a devout, God-fearing man, as was everyone in his household. He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God. 

3 One afternoon about three o’clock, he had a vision in which he saw an angel of God coming toward him. “Cornelius!” the angel said. 

4 Cornelius stared at him in terror. “What is it, sir?” he asked the angel. And the angel replied, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by God as an offering! 5 Now send some men to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. 

6 He is staying with Simon, a tanner who lives near the seashore.” 7 As soon as the angel was gone, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier, one of his personal attendants.       8 He told them what had happened and sent them off to Joppa. 

7 Aspects of Cornelius' fearing God which resulted in him being a man of God and a godly man. He experienced the grace of God and had the approval of family, Jews. Gentiles, fellow soldiers, and servants. Most important, his family was a reflection of his humble attitude and active loving obedience to God. 

Consider this about the faith, love and obedience of Cornelius:

Faithfulness in his trust in the Sovereign God and in total awe of God.

Earnestness in his heart and devotion to God.

Accountable in his behavior to God.

Responsiveness in his loving submission to God.

Inquisitiveness in seeking to know the purpose and will of God.

Non-neglectfulness in immediately obeying God.

Generousness in his compassion for the poor to the glory of God.

Romans 14:17-18 (NLT) 

17 For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God, and others will approve of you, too. 

This is the evidence of a truly God-fearing man and the influence and effectiveness of a life lived for the honor of God. My daily prayer is that I might be that kind of man for God’s glory. Let this passage encourage us:

Psalm 103:17-18 (NLT) 

17 But the love of the LORD remains forever with those who fear him. His salvation extends to the children’s children 18 of those who are faithful to his covenant, of those who obey his commandments! 

SHUT MY MOUTH

Well,

 Shut My Mouth!!!

Proverbs 10:19 (NLT) 

19 Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut. 

One of the challenges or struggles I deal with, every day, is mouth control. My tendence is to overstate a case or issue. Such becomes a frustration to me and an affliction to family and friends. But, I am full of it, I can't help it. It's just that I enjoy studying the Bible so much I just want to share what I am learning from the Lord. 

But enough is enough and too much of a great thing becomes overwhelming because it is to much to hear it all. The question come to me: "Is there end to it? My answer is no. But there can be control so that people can listen and be encouraged. The Bible clearly tells me, Don, how to do this.

First, one of the fruits of the Spirit is "SELF-CONTROL." 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, "23 gentleness, and self-control....." Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT

When I submit to the Holy Spirt here is the result: God is pleased, Wanda's Doctor is happy, Wanda, herself is thrilled and it gives great joy to my family and friends. Well, shut my mouth, what a blessing! So now I will daily consider the following verses:

Proverbs 17:27 (NLT) 

27 A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered.

James 1:19 (NLT) 

'19 Understand this, my dear (Don) brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak,......"

To God be the Glory!!!

APPROACHING THE THRONE OF GRACE

 PRAYER - Approaching the Throne of Grace

Hebrews 4:14-16 (NLT) 14 So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us (Me) hold firmly to what we (I) believe. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 16 So let us (Me) come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will (I) receive his mercy, and we (I) will find grace to help us (Me) when we (I) need it most. 

Approaching the Throne of Grace in this way makes our prayers personal, positive and practical. 

Romans 8:28 (NLT) 28 And we (I) know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those (Don) who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. 

God never fails. He is always faithful to His promises. He will always do what is wise, best, and good for us. This is because we trust His word and seek His glory.

Deuteronomy 7:9 (NLT) 9 Understand, therefore, that the LORD your God is indeed God. He is the faithful God who keeps his covenant for a thousand generations and lavishes his unfailing love on those who love him and obey his commands. 

Deuteronomy 32:4 (NLT) 4 He is the Rock; his deeds are perfect. Everything he does is just and fair. He is a faithful God who does no wrong; how just and upright he is! 

However, for me there is a confusing aspect in praying. I do not doubt God, I trust God and know He will answer my prayer. As it says cleary in Psalms 15:35 " I trust you, Lord. You will answer, my Lord and God."

1 Thessalonians 5:24 (NLT) 24 God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful. 

Here is what I know when I approach the Throne of Grace: I know that God will give me His peace in every situation. I know that God will give me His patience through all conditions. I know that God will give me His power to overcome all challenges. It is the ultimately reality of Romans 8:28, and I Corinthians 10:13.

Peace - God, the Father - Hebrews 4:16 (NLT) 

16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.

Isaiah 26:3-4 (NLT) 

3 You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! 4 Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD GOD is the eternal Rock. 

Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT) 

6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. 

Patience - God, the Son -Romans 8:33-34 (ESV) 

33 Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. 

1 Timothy 1:16 (NLT) 

"But so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience ..." 

Revelation 1:9 (NLT) 

9I John, am your brother and your partner in suffering and in God’s Kingdom and in the patient endurance to which Jesus calls us...." 

Power - God, the Holy Spirt - Romans 8:27 (NLT) 

27 And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. 

Jude 1:20 (NLT) 

20 But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, 

Ephesians 6:18 (NLT) 

18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers..." 

Romans 15:13 (NLT) 

13 I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Here is what I do not know when I approach the Throne of Grace in prayer. I do not know the details of what God will do in anwsering prayer. I do not know how He will, in His providence, answer prayer. I do not know the means, the people or the conditions He will use in answering prayer. 

But, here is what I do know about God answering prayer. In His love, grace, mercy, wisdom, will, purpose, plan, time, and for His glory, He will answer my prayer. I know that God's glory always results in my good. How could I ask for more than that?

Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NLT) 

11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. 

Psalm 40:5 (NLT) 

5 O LORD my God, you have performed many wonders for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. You have no equal. If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds, I would never come to the end of them. 

This is how I approach the Throne of Grace. This is how I pray for myself. And this is what I pray for my family and friends. Be encouraged! Have hope. God is good and faithful in all He says and does.

Ephesians 3:20 (NLT) 

20 Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. 

AMEN!!!

A STROKE OF GENIUS

 A Stroke of Genius            

My greatest fear in life is not dying, To put it simply, bluntly and directly, it is a STROKE. The debilati1ng affects of a stroke is what I dreaded most. And then it happened. I so identify with Job.

Job 3:25 (NLT) 

25 What I always feared has happened to me. What I dreaded has come true. 

My stroke is no way near to the suffering of Job. His suffering was excruciating and beyond human comprehension, and only God can explain what and why and He did at the end of the book. 

What I learned from the Bible was God's will and wisdom in all I experience is for His glory which results in my ultimate good.

Romans 8:28 is forever true in time and eternity. Through it all, this I know, in the words of the Psalmist: "God love me."   Wow! And that is enough. 

The results of what God my heavenly Father has done so transformed my life that I see it now as a stroke of genius.

My life was transformed by the love and discipline of my gracious and merciful heavenly Father. The relationships with my wife, children, friends and even foes were totally changed. In all of my 86 years, this the is best and most meaningful time of my life. I can't even begin to express the joy of life everyday with the LORD and all those I love. "It is joy unspeakable and full of glory." I Peter 1:8  

Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) 

10 For we (I am) are God’s masterpiece. He has created us (Me) anew in Christ Jesus, so we (I) can do the good things he planned for us (Me) long ago. 

Romans 9:23-25 (HCSB) 

2And what if He did this to make known the riches of His glory on objects of mercy that He prepared beforehand for glory— 24 on us, the ones He also called......"

1 Thessalonians 5:24 (NLT) 

24 God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful. 

Paul said it so well: " So I am willing to endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen."  2 Timothy 2:10 (NLT)

Sinclair Ferguson on a covenant with the Lord.

"A new year represents an opportunity to commit ourselves to the Lord. Today, January 1, 2024, Sinclair Ferguson invites us to express our commitment afresh to God and to pray for His help in the year ahead.

John Wesley borrowed the idea of a living covenant from some of the Puritans that he had read at an earlier stage in his life. 

So, I want to begin this new year by sharing that covenant with you, and to invite you, with me, to commit yourself to the Lord and to pray for His help through this new year.

"I am no longer my own, but Yours. Put me to what You will, place me with whom You will. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be employed for You or laid aside for You, exalted for You or brought low for You. Let me be full, let me be empty. Let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely and heartily yield all things to Your pleasure and disposal. And now, O glorious and blessed God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, You are mine, and I am Yours. May it be so. And may the covenant which I have just made here on earth be confirmed in heaven." End quote.

With Jude I am thrilled to shout: "All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are his before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen."  Jude 1:25 (NLT)

It is after all, "A Stroke of Genius."

Balance

 

                          Tristan on the Beam in perfect balance

I love this little, big man. He is demonstrating one of the most important principles in living. Life is about balance. One aspect of it, and there are many, is concentration and commitment. Let alone the joy of achievement. Way to go Tristan and will done. I love you and am proud of you. Grandpa

Proverbs 28:2 (NLT)

    "... But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." (Balance)

As mentioned above, stability is one of the vital virtues that affect life, family or government. Another example is the balance between wisdom and knowledge that results in stability which brings peace and prosperity. Consider the balance of love and truth; work and rest; faith and action; trust and faithfulness. There are so many of these spoken of throughout the Bible. God gives us this stability or balance in the Gospel, the good news, of His love and sacrifice for us. How wonderful that in Christ and through our trust in Him we have an abundant life in the balance of God's purpose and plan for us.

The primary balance in life is our joy in God as our source of life and our gratitude to God for the goodness of life He so graciously gives us. That is the real balance of life, joy in God and gratitude to God.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)

"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."

Father, how grateful we are that in a world that is broken by sin, rebellion, disbelief and is totally unstable You, in grace, give us stability and balance. 

Thank You, in the name or Jesus, who is both the center and circumstance of our life, a perfect balance. Amen

A GOOD LAUGH

                                       

      "A time to laugh."  Ecclesiastes 3:4 (NLT) 

I love laughter. One of the joys of my life is to mess with people, kid them. joke with them and get then to laugh or at least smile. One of the things I do when on a doctor visit is to ask him when he enters the room "How can I help you today?  "How are you feeling?"  He usually laughs and I am sure wonders how he can help this ole man with one foot on a banana peel and the other on a grave. 

One of the many things I love about being in our family gatherings is that it is always party time. That is, a time to laugh and just enjoy each other. Laughter is a very delightful part of our sharing together. Laughter even to the point of tears. 

So, now I just want to share some verses on laughter and how important it is to our life, health and relationships with God and each other.

The healing of laughter. Stress may kill, but laughter will help heal you. It is personal, practical, physical, emotional, mental, spiritual and affects the whole person, body, soul and spirit. It is a key to good health and happy living. It is a laughing matter. No joke!

"A cheerful heart is good medicine..."  Proverbs 17:22 (NLT) 

Job 8:21 (NLT) 

21 He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.

The sharing of laughter. Such fun to enjoy the life of others in which God is doing miracles things. 

Genesis 21:6-7 (NLT) 

6 And Sarah declared, “God has brought me laughter. All who hear about this will laugh with me. 7 Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse a baby? Yet I have given Abraham a son in his old age!” 

Psalm 113:9 (NLT) 

9 He gives the childless woman a family, making her a happy mother. Praise the LORD! 

Luke 15:8-10 (NLT) 

8 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Won’t she light a lamp and sweep the entire house and search carefully until she finds it? 

9 And when she finds it, she will call in her friends and neighbors and say, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents.” 

The benefits of laughter.

Proverbs 15:13 (NLT) 

"A glad heart makes a happy face;" 

The contentment of laughter - The joy of simply being satisfied.

Ecclesiastes 2:24-26 (ESV) 

24 There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God, 25 for apart from him who can eat or who can have enjoyment? 26 For to the one who pleases him God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy...." 

Philippians 4:11 (ESV) 

11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 

The restoration of laughter. Happy days are here again in renewed relationships.

Luke 15:8-10 (NLT) 

8 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Won’t she light a lamp and sweep the entire house and search carefully until she finds it? 

9 And when she finds it, she will call in her friends and neighbors and say, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents.” 

Luke 15:32 (NLT) 

32 We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!’” 

Romans 12:15 (NLT) 

"Be happy with those who are happy....." 

The celebration of laughter. Enjoying God's gracious provision.

Psalm 126:2-3 (NLT) 

2 We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the LORD has done for them.” 3 Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us! What joy! 

The justice of laughter. The foolishness of sinful humanity in their attempt to defeat God is laughable. 

Psalm 2:1-4 (NLT) 

1 Why are the nations so angry? Why do they waste their time with futile plans? 2 The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the LORD and against his anointed one. 3 “Let us break their chains,” they cry, “and free ourselves from slavery to God.” 4 But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them. 

Psalm 37:12-13 (NLT) 

12 The wicked plot against the godly; they snarl at them in defiance. 13 But the Lord just laughs, for he sees their day of judgment coming. 

Psalm 73:20 (NLT) 

20 When you arise, O Lord, you will laugh at their silly ideas as a person laughs at dreams in the morning.

The hope of laughter. The best is yet to be based on God's promise.

Luke 6:21 (NLT) 

"....God blesses you who weep now, for in due time you will laugh." 

Jeremiah 33:11 (NLT) 

11 the sounds of joy and laughter. The joyful voices of bridegrooms and brides will be heard again, along with the joyous songs of people bringing thanksgiving offerings to the LORD....."  

The confidence of laughter - Working faith of a capable wife.

Proverbs 31:10 (NLT) 

10 Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies. 

Proverbs 31:25 (NLT) 

25 She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. 

Proverbs 31:29-31 (NLT) 

29 “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!” 30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised. 

The eternal joy of laughter. Heaven is a happy place. Yes, filled with laughter and joy!!!

1 Peter 1:8 (NLT) 

8 You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. 

Hebrews 12:22 (NLT) 

22 No, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to countless thousands of angels in a joyful gathering.

These are just a few verses on laughter and joy in living in fellowship with the Lord and each other. 

Psalm 16:11 (NLT) 

11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.

 

Isaiah 61:10 (NLT) 

10 I am overwhelmed with joy in the LORD my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels. 

It is not "let the party begin."  It is "let the party continue," daily in our life and laughter with the Lord, and all who will join us.

Psalm 23:6 (NLT) 

6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live (and laugh) in the house of the LORD forever. 

Is This Heaven?

 

John 14:2-3 (NIV) 2 In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 

1 Corinthians 2:9-10 (NIV) 9 However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him"-- 10 but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. (Not only is ours the Kingdom future, but also the Kingdom now, for Jesus is our Savior and King who rules on the throne of our hearts.)  

Luke 6:20 (NIV) 20 Looking at his disciples, he said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God, (In our heart now and in our future,)  

Luke 17:21 (NIV) 21 ......' because the kingdom of God is within you."  (Now)

Matthew 6:33 (ESV) 33 ..... seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (Now)

Matthew 6:9-10 (NIV) 9 "This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, (Future) your will be done on earth (Now)  as it is in heaven. (Now)

Psalm 16:11 (NLT) 11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence (Now) and the pleasures of living with you forever. (Future)

"HEAVEN CAME DOWN"

Oh what a wonderful, wonderful day, day I will never forget.  After I'd wandered in darkness away, Jesus my Savior I met. Oh what a tender, compassionate friend, He met the need of my heart Shadows dispelling, with joy I am telling, He made all the darkness depart

Heaven came down and glory filled my soul When at the cross the Savior made me whole My sins were washed away My night was turned to day Heaven came down and glory filled my soul yeah.

Born of the Spirit with life from above into God's family divine. Justified fully through Calvary's love Oh what a standing is mine.  And the transaction so quickly was made, when as a sinner I came. Took of the offer of grace He did proffer He saved me Oh praise His dear Name.

Heaven came down and glory filled my soul. When at the cross the Savior made me whole. My sins were washed away My night was turned to day Heaven came down and glory filled my soul.  

Songwriters: Peterson John Willard. 

"Is This Heaven?  YES!!!  The joy of His presence within us now on earth and our ultimate and eternal joy with Him in heaven.

1 Peter 1:8 (NLT) "You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy." 

Amen, Amen and Amen!!!

THE KINDNESS OF GOD

 

Romans 2:4 (NLT) 

"Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you?  

Does this mean nothing to you?  

 Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?" 

Nothing moves me more to humility, tears and gratitude than the Kindness of God. I know what I deserve, God's righteous judgement. The overwhelming reality of my unworthiness and yet the incredible worth of me to God can only be see and understood by the cross and Christ's suffering for my sin, which He did not deserve, but I do!

How well the Scriptures explain this: "God showed how much he loved us (me) by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we (I) might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we  (I) loved God, but that he loved us (me) and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our (mine) sins."   1 John 4:9-10 (NLT) 

Romans 5:8 (NLT)  "But God showed his great love for us (me) by sending Christ to die for us (me) while we (I was) were still sinners."

 

I cannot over emphasis how much this personal kindness of God means to me. Words simply fail. The following Scriptures will give insight and understanding into such glorious grace, magnificent mercy and loving kindness.

Titus 3:4-5 (NLT)  "4 But—When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit."

That is why the question is asked: 

"4 Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? 5 But because you are stubborn and refuse to turn from your sin, you are storing up terrible punishment for yourself. For a day of anger is coming, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed." Romans 2:4-5 (NLT)  

 

The Apostle Peter reminds us of God's kindness: " The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV) 

 

And John reminds us of the great reason for God's kindness. “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life."  John 3:16 (NLT)

  

The following song: "He Looked Beyond My Fault and Saw My Need" expresses the emotions of why I feel so deeply grateful for the wonderful Kindness of the Triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

"Amazing grace will always be my song of praise,

For it was grace that brought me Liberty,

I do not know just why He came to love me so,

He looked beyond my fault and saw my need,

I shall forever lift my eyes to Calvary,

To view the cross where Jesus died for me,

How marvelous the grace that caught my falling soul,

He looked beyond fault and saw my need."

That you Father for your kindness revealed at the Cross of Christ and the gracious forgiveness of all my sin. And for the Holy Spirit's indwelling presence. In the gentle Name of Jesus my Savior and Lord. Amen.

 

"I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving." 2 Corinthians 8:7 (NLT) 

Proverbs 11:25 (NLT) 

25 The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. 

Heavenly Father, help me to ponder these passages of Scripture with a sincere and humble heart willing to share Your generosity with others.

King David an example -

1 Chronicles 29:5-9 (NLT) 

5 ...... Now then, who will follow my example and give offerings to the LORD today?” 6 Then the family leaders, the leaders of the tribes of Israel, the generals and captains of the army, and the king’s administrative officers all gave willingly. 9 The people rejoiced over the offerings, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD, and King David was filled with joy. 

1 Chronicles 29:10-14 (NLT) 

10 Then David praised the LORD in the presence of the whole assembly: “O LORD, the God of our ancestor Israel, may you be praised forever and ever! 11 Yours, O LORD, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is yours, O LORD, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as the one who is over all things. 12 Wealth and honor come from you alone, for you rule over everything. Power and might are in your hand, and at your discretion people are made great and given strength. 13 “O our God, we thank you and praise your glorious name! 14 But who am I, and who are my people, that we could give anything to you? Everything we have has come from you, and we give you only what you first gave us! 

1 Chronicles 29:16-17 (NLT) 

16 “O LORD our God, even this material we have gathered to build a Temple to honor your holy name comes from you! It all belongs to you! 17 I know, my God, that you examine our hearts and rejoice when you find integrity there. You know I have done all this with good motives, and I have watched your people offer their gifts willingly and joyously. 

O heavenly Father, you are the Source of my life, the Sovereign of my Soul and the Supply of all I need. Your Word reminds me: "19 And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19 (NLT) 

Father, the Apostle Paul encourages me in giving: "7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 9 As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” 10 For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. 

12 So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. 13 As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. 14 And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. 15 Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!  2 Corinthians 9:7-15 (NLT) 

Father I pray, that you will help me to share in the joy, generosity, and grace of giving, for your honor and glory and to help others in their needs. In the name of Jesus our generous Lord and Savior. Amen.

 

Meditation on the Gift

2 Corinthians 9:15 (NLT) " Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words! "

1 Corinthians 15:1-54(NIV)  "1 Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. 2 By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, "

Acts 4:12 (NLT) "There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."

"I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile." Romans 1:16 (NIV) 

Romans 6:23 (NLT) "23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. "

Psalm 116:12-14 (NLT) "12 What can I offer the LORD for all he has done for me? 13 I will lift up the cup of salvation and praise the LORD’s name for saving me. 14 I will keep my promises to the LORD in the presence of all his people."

Father, in answer to the question above, I will lift up the cup of salvation for all to see wonders of your love for us. I will worship and praise Your Name with all of my heart, mind, soul, and strength. And I will live out my promise of trust and obedience to you as a testimony to the gift of your infinite grace. Through the Name of our and Savior Jesus. Amen.

From the Hymn "Marvelous Grace."

"Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt, yonder on Calvary's Mount Cross out poured there were the blood of the Lamb was spilt. Grace, grace, God grace, grace that will pardon and cleanse within, Grace. grace, God grace, grace that is greater than all our sin."

A TRIBUTE TO MY WIFE ON MOTHER'S DAY

 

A tribute to my wonderful wife and the amazing mother of our children.

"A wife of noble character is her husband's crown....."                      Proverbs 12:4 (NIV) 

The jewels in the Royal Crown are 2,868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, 269 pearls, and four rubies. It is a treasure of greatest value. Wanda is a treasure of greatest value and jewels in the crown.

Diamond - 

Like a diamond glistening with colors from the light refracted, Wanda's personality is reflected through her life in her joy of living, industry in working, and diligence in managing her home. In her gifts of art, decoration, and music. In consistentantly cooking and baking. In exciting adventures when the chance comes, and travel. She thrives on helping people and be a caregiver to many young and old.. She focuses on what needs to be done and consciously does it. She is both strong and venerable in of life circumstances. She embraces the fullness of life in all of her activities. She greets family, friends, neighbor and stranger with a beautiful smile and a gracious greeting.

Sapphire shines exquisite light of excellence - Wanda is  committed to the absolute conviction of and commandment to truth. of the Bible. She is loyal to the commands of God in her obedience to His Word and will. and the woman, wife, and mother God created her to be. 

Emerald - Spiritual growth.  Wanda loves the Lord with of her heart and learns each day how to trust Him more. She is devoted to the Bible, she shares her faith in every opportunity: The mall, market, Gas Station, Restaurant, laundry room. Anywhere and everywhere, always ready to tell of her relationship with the Lord.

Pearl - The priority of her values. Marriage, Children, Friends, Church, Community. She will portraited in Proverbs 31:10-31 

 Proverbs 31:10-12 (NLT) 

10 Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies. 11 Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life. 12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. 

 Proverbs 31:27-31 (NLT) 

27 She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. 

28 Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: 

29 “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!” 

30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised. 

31 Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise. 

Rubie- Service, suffering and sacrifice. Wanda in many ways ministries to others with her gifts and talents. She has experienced suffering as all people do and has learned through God's grace to give thanks in all things for what God is accomplishing through them for her. She knows the truth of Romans 8:28. There are times when sacrifice, putting others before yourself and their needs is necessary to ensure their benefit. This she does with humility and mercy.

Her influence and love is well attested to by the following statements:

She is loved and pleasing to God because she is " a woman who fears the LORD ..." . Proverbs 31:30 (NIV) 

She is loved and cherished by her husband because he trusts her completely.

She is loved and precious to her Children because of her sacrificial love and devotion to them.

She is loved and appreciated by her friends because of her loyal friendship and kindness for them.

Indeed, of Wanda it may be said : "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Proverbs 31:29 (NIV)  

She is the crown for her husband, The Queen of her home, The pride of her children, The Lady of Nobility for her friends. She is the is the quindecinnial Woman. This is all from the grace of God and to the glory of God from whom all blessings flow. And this grace is wonderfully displayed in the life of Wanda. She is the Royal Crown of my life! How true the Word of God is: "The man who finds a wife finds a treasure, and he receives favor from the LORD." Proverbs 18:22 (NLT) 

Life's Most Important Decision

 

Life's most important decision is not pollical, financial, philosophical, educational or social. It is spiritual. It is a once in a life time decision, which is renewed daily and lasts eternally. It is to choose to accept Jesus call to follow him. 

Luke 9:23 (ESV) "And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."

Father, the core of this decision is our heart, the context of this decision is our life, the circumference of this decision is the influence of our behavior and the cost of this decision may be suffering for following Him.

Father you remind us in the Scriptures: Philippians 1:29 (ESV) "For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake,"

2 Timothy 3:12 (ESV) "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,"

1 Peter 4:16 (ESV) "Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name".

Father thank you for the honor of being called to follow Jesus. Thank your for the privileges of suffering for his Name. Thank you that by your grace we are not pessimistic about persecution, nor intimated by hostility, nor frozen by fear. Thank you, not for the pain but for the One we endure the pain for.

Father may we be a humble, joyful, powerful, truthful and loving witness to all regardless of their reaction. And may we remember Jesus affirmation to his followers: “God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers." Matthew 5:11 (NLT)

In the name of Jesus the one who suffered so much for us we pray. Amen. 

Just in Time

 

Exodus 2:23-25 (NLT)

   ²³ Years passed, and the king of Egypt died. But the Israelites continued to groan under their burden of slavery. They cried out for help, and their cry rose up to God. ²⁴ God heard their groaning, and he remembered his covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. ²⁵ He looked down on the people of Israel and knew it was time to act.

Father as I think about life and the various experiences we all encounter on a daily basis, I am so glad that you hear our prayers, remember your promises, see our needs, know our concerns and intervene at the appropriate time. The great example of this is when you sent your Son: “….Christ came at just the right time….” Romans 5:6 (NLT) This principle of timing at the right moment is also mentioned: “Psalm 102:13 (ESV) “the appointed time has come.”

Our job is simple and at the same time challenging and it is this: “I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and with hope I wait for his word. Psalm 130:5 (GW)

Thank you Father for such personal, compassionate and timely care. In the Name of your beloved Son and our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Do Not Fear

 

Psalm 5:11-12 (NLT)  ¹¹ But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy. ¹² For you bless the godly, O LORD; you surround them with your shield of love.

Father, in view of the violence that we witness, there are three words in this passage that draw my attention: refuge, protection, and shield. We see so many victims and so little justice. I am reminded of what Jesus said: “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NLT)

 Father I pray for those suffering that they will find refuge in your strength, protection in your power and the shield of love in your compassion. Though at times we are dismayed and disquieted by the trials we face, we take encouragement in your word to Paul: “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT)

Therefore “We are confident of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ.” 2 Corinthians 3:4 (NLT)

Father, help us to remember that we do not need to fear, because: The LORD says, “…. I will protect those who trust in my name.” Psalm 91:14 (NLT)

 Amen.