Living Water
John 7:37 (NIV)
37 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let Him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water shall flow within Him.”
Good morning!
When I stop to reminisce about the past year, I find myself a bit overwhelmed. We’ve seen tragedy through natural disaster and the rage of war that has taken so many of our country’s men and women away from their families. I’ve been impressed with the spirit of genuine compassion of those who stepped up to share their hearts and possessions with the ones who lost loved ones and livelihood to famine, floods, tornadoes, and fires. I have said goodbye to some wonderful people who have gone on before me, who are with the Lord in heaven today. I miss them for now, but I know I will see them again one day. I cherish the gift of new life, personally experienced through the birth of my new great nieces and granddaughter Madison. I look forward to welcoming a new little life in the spring, as we await the birth of yet another grandchild. I’ve changed jobs, finished another year of school, and I’ve met and made many new friends.
I’ve spent time in prayer, lifting up the hearts of those who haven’t met Jesus yet. There are times when I sit in front of my television set, eyes glued to the news, seeing the tragedy and sorrow of many, as their lives unfold across the big screen. I worry for their souls. I wonder what their life could be like if they just knew Jesus. He can melt the hardest heart and breathe life into lifeless form. If they really knew Him, would their life’s story become a living testimony and a beacon for others to see? Is my life a true reflection of the one who set me free? When people look at me, will they see Jesus living inside my heart?
Jesus went to the temple to preach during the Feast of the Tabernacles. He wanted nothing more than to share the gift of eternal life with all people. There were those who stood and listened, and they believed. There were others who whispered and suggested that this man came to deceive and lead people astray. Some assumed Jesus was demon-possessed and could not to be trusted. Our Lord could hear the words of His accusers, and the thoughts in the hearts of all men. He wanted nothing more than for the world to see Him for who He is, and to know and love the One who sent Him.
Jesus offers living water to all who are thirsty. If they will come to Him in faith, He promises to quench their unquenchable thirst forever. Streams of living water would flow out from their hearts, pulsing through their veins, giving new life and hope for each and every tomorrow. If every person could experience Christ’s redemption and love for themselves, things on earth would change. We would care more for our brothers and sisters needs than for our own selfish desires. We would share the Good News of Jesus Christ without hesitation or fear. If you have received the gift of everlasting life, wouldn’t you want to tell everyone you knew?
Today is a day of great hope. We watch and wait for the dawn of a new year and we wonder what lies ahead. Will there be peace on earth in 2007? Are we willing to share the love of Christ with the world? Is there someone out there just waiting to meet Jesus? Will God use you to tell them? Will you tell them?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: springs of living water to quench your thirst and fill your life with love. Jesus Christ is counting on you to spread His Word to everyone. Are you willing to lead another thirsty soul to the river of life in 2007? What will the risen Christ do through you next year?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Good morning!
I'm very excited about Faith Church's initiative to read through the entire Bible in one year, 2007. I've been reading the Word from the time I was a young girl, and I am always amazed at how each day, this Book holds a special surprise just for me. It's almost like unwrapping a little gift from the Father!
We are blessed to have the Holy Scripture available to us. Many of us have Bibles located in several places; at home, at work, in our car... I cannot imagine living in a place where the Word was not accessible. My prayer is that you will take advantage of the gift God has given you. Open your scripture today and listen to what the Father has to say.
deb
I'm very excited about Faith Church's initiative to read through the entire Bible in one year, 2007. I've been reading the Word from the time I was a young girl, and I am always amazed at how each day, this Book holds a special surprise just for me. It's almost like unwrapping a little gift from the Father!
We are blessed to have the Holy Scripture available to us. Many of us have Bibles located in several places; at home, at work, in our car... I cannot imagine living in a place where the Word was not accessible. My prayer is that you will take advantage of the gift God has given you. Open your scripture today and listen to what the Father has to say.
deb
Saturday, December 30, 2006
The Best Gift Ever
Acts 2:38-39 (NIV)
38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off – for all whom the Lord our God will call.
Romans 3:22-24 (NIV)
22 This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Good morning!
I carry a small, shiny stone in my jacket pocket. I take it with me, everywhere I go. It is a tangible reminder of an incredible gift, given to me many years ago. I can feel the stone bouncing around in my jacket pocket. Occasionally, I will hold the stone in my hand, and remember with a grateful heart the best gift I have ever received.
Have you ever made a mistake – said or did something that you later regretted? Have you caused undue pain and hardship for someone else out of your own selfishness? Has anyone ever hurt you? Have you found yourself feeling resentful and defensive, afraid if you let your guard down for even a minute, you might get hurt again? These actions and consequences are the cause and effect of sin. When we sin, we miss the mark. There are times when we will make mistakes; and yet, the effect of our actions will leave a scar. There are other times when we choose to say or do something we know we shouldn’t. We do not think about how our words and our choices will affect the ones around us or how they may rip at our own heartstrings in the years to come. The Apostle Paul wrote that all of us have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. God is perfect and we are not. Our sin gets in the way of relationship with Him. What can we do to overcome our human condition?
Jesus Christ came for this very purpose. He knew our imperfections would divide us eternally from a relationship with God. Jesus willingly laid His life down for you and for me. He took the sins of the world and bore them on the cross of Calvary. His blood was shed to wash our sin away and free us from the things that bind us on earth. Through His gift of life, we can be free from the pain that sin brings. We can be free to forgive those who hurt us, and free to forgive ourselves for the mistakes we have made. The freedom that comes from confession, repentance and baptism is by far the very best gift I know. His forgiveness and love for me is overwhelming. I am free to be the child He has created me to be, and I am covered by His precious blood.
The stone in my pocket reminds me of the water that was poured over my head many years ago when I received the sacrament of Christian baptism. I took that stone from a pool of water during a worship service when I remembered my baptism and how God washed my sin away. I confessed my sin to the Lord and asked Him to forgive me. When I was baptized with water as a child, I received God’s amazing gift of His Holy Spirit. And as I continue to grow in grace, I rely more and more upon His Spirit to lead and direct my life. When I experienced the gift of salvation and the freedom that total forgiveness and grace brings, it was the most precious and tender moment of my life. Every time I touch that stone in my pocket, I remember, and His love washes over me like the baptism water that was poured over my life many years ago.
This is a very special weekend in the life of our grandchildren, Jett and Madison. They will receive the sacrament of Christian baptism tomorrow morning at Faith Church. Last summer, Jett asked Jesus to come into his heart and forgive his sin. I have watched the power of the Holy Spirit work in his young heart and I have seen him extend forgiveness for things that truly seemed unforgivable. Only the love of Christ can do something like this.
If you have never experienced the gift of salvation, Jesus holds a package in His hand with your name on it. Invite Christ to come into your life today. Confess your sin and tell Him you’re sorry for missing the mark. Ask Him to forgive you. He will do it! Then go and experience the freedom of new life through the sacrament of Christian baptism. There is new life waiting for you. Won’t you come to the water of life?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the promise to be fulfilled in your heart today. Experience the gift of rebirth through God’s salvation and the forgiveness that only Jesus Christ can give. He holds a special package with your name on the tag. Will you receive it?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Acts 2:38-39 (NIV)
38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off – for all whom the Lord our God will call.
Romans 3:22-24 (NIV)
22 This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Good morning!
I carry a small, shiny stone in my jacket pocket. I take it with me, everywhere I go. It is a tangible reminder of an incredible gift, given to me many years ago. I can feel the stone bouncing around in my jacket pocket. Occasionally, I will hold the stone in my hand, and remember with a grateful heart the best gift I have ever received.
Have you ever made a mistake – said or did something that you later regretted? Have you caused undue pain and hardship for someone else out of your own selfishness? Has anyone ever hurt you? Have you found yourself feeling resentful and defensive, afraid if you let your guard down for even a minute, you might get hurt again? These actions and consequences are the cause and effect of sin. When we sin, we miss the mark. There are times when we will make mistakes; and yet, the effect of our actions will leave a scar. There are other times when we choose to say or do something we know we shouldn’t. We do not think about how our words and our choices will affect the ones around us or how they may rip at our own heartstrings in the years to come. The Apostle Paul wrote that all of us have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. God is perfect and we are not. Our sin gets in the way of relationship with Him. What can we do to overcome our human condition?
Jesus Christ came for this very purpose. He knew our imperfections would divide us eternally from a relationship with God. Jesus willingly laid His life down for you and for me. He took the sins of the world and bore them on the cross of Calvary. His blood was shed to wash our sin away and free us from the things that bind us on earth. Through His gift of life, we can be free from the pain that sin brings. We can be free to forgive those who hurt us, and free to forgive ourselves for the mistakes we have made. The freedom that comes from confession, repentance and baptism is by far the very best gift I know. His forgiveness and love for me is overwhelming. I am free to be the child He has created me to be, and I am covered by His precious blood.
The stone in my pocket reminds me of the water that was poured over my head many years ago when I received the sacrament of Christian baptism. I took that stone from a pool of water during a worship service when I remembered my baptism and how God washed my sin away. I confessed my sin to the Lord and asked Him to forgive me. When I was baptized with water as a child, I received God’s amazing gift of His Holy Spirit. And as I continue to grow in grace, I rely more and more upon His Spirit to lead and direct my life. When I experienced the gift of salvation and the freedom that total forgiveness and grace brings, it was the most precious and tender moment of my life. Every time I touch that stone in my pocket, I remember, and His love washes over me like the baptism water that was poured over my life many years ago.
This is a very special weekend in the life of our grandchildren, Jett and Madison. They will receive the sacrament of Christian baptism tomorrow morning at Faith Church. Last summer, Jett asked Jesus to come into his heart and forgive his sin. I have watched the power of the Holy Spirit work in his young heart and I have seen him extend forgiveness for things that truly seemed unforgivable. Only the love of Christ can do something like this.
If you have never experienced the gift of salvation, Jesus holds a package in His hand with your name on it. Invite Christ to come into your life today. Confess your sin and tell Him you’re sorry for missing the mark. Ask Him to forgive you. He will do it! Then go and experience the freedom of new life through the sacrament of Christian baptism. There is new life waiting for you. Won’t you come to the water of life?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the promise to be fulfilled in your heart today. Experience the gift of rebirth through God’s salvation and the forgiveness that only Jesus Christ can give. He holds a special package with your name on the tag. Will you receive it?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Comfort and joy
Isaiah 49:13 (NIV)
13 Shout for joy, O heavens; Rejoice, O earth; Burst into song, O mountains! For the Lord comforts His people and will have compassion on His afflicted ones.
Good morning!
My grandparents lived in an old two-story farmhouse just outside of Eldon, Missouri for many years. Their farm was situated atop of a hill, surrounded by several small ponds, and green meadows covered in an array of wild flowers. The view from their back porch was incomparable. I loved visiting their farm each weekend, and I especially enjoyed the beauty of each season.
Wintertime at the farm was spectacular. Sometimes, it was a challenge just getting there. It took hours to maneuver the snow and ice-packed roads up the hill to the farm. When we would come to visit, my grandfather and uncle would have to plow a way with the tractor. It was a three-mile stretch of gravel roadway, winding up and down the Ozark hills. There were times when they would meet us at the edge of the gravel road, and we would slowly creep behind the tractor all the way up the hill to the farm. Once inside, we would sit by the pot-belied wood-burning stove to warm up. Our faces would become rudy and chapped from the dry wood crackling inside the stove. Grandma and Grandpa did not have central heating, and consequently, the upstairs bedrooms could be very chilly at night. I loved climbing up onto the large feather bed, and sinking down underneath the warm comforters my grandmother had lovingly quilted. Her comforters were some of the finest in the county. Brightly colored piece quilts, thick with warm batting, blanketed the four poster bed where I slept at night. No matter how much ice and snow covered the ground outside, I knew Grandma’s quilts would keep me safe and warm inside.
In the morning after a hearty breakfast, we would don our snow beast suits and ride sleds down the hill to the pond. We would slip and slide across the frozen water, tossing snowballs and watching the deer strolling through the woods nearby. After getting chilled through, I looked forward to wrapping up in Grandma’s colorful comforters while sitting by the fire and thawing out. Her steamy hot chocolate covered in marshmallow goo made coming inside worthwhile. The older I get, the colder my hands and feet become. I find myself longing to wrap up in the warmth and love of my Grandmother’s handmade comforters.
God’s love is like a warm, handmade comforter. He wraps us in His mercy and grace, and keeps us safe and warm through the dark, cold nights of winter. He shows compassion on the afflicted, and our hearts sing out with great joy. My grandmother knew the Lord. With every perfect stitch, she told His story time and again. She used her talent to express God’s love to each of us, and we saw Him through her handiwork. God’s comfort is extended through the hearts of those who love Him. I may never quilt a comforter as warm as my grandmother’s, but I can extend the warmth and welcome of Christ through love.
Share the warmth of God’s comfort with someone you know today. His compassion is everlasting, and His love never fails. We are safe in the shelter of His hand. Come inside and thaw out. He is waiting to warm you with the light of His love.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: His comfort to wrap you up, keeping you safe and warm, as He fills your heart with songs of joy. The Lord comforts His people and His compassion will never fail.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Isaiah 49:13 (NIV)
13 Shout for joy, O heavens; Rejoice, O earth; Burst into song, O mountains! For the Lord comforts His people and will have compassion on His afflicted ones.
Good morning!
My grandparents lived in an old two-story farmhouse just outside of Eldon, Missouri for many years. Their farm was situated atop of a hill, surrounded by several small ponds, and green meadows covered in an array of wild flowers. The view from their back porch was incomparable. I loved visiting their farm each weekend, and I especially enjoyed the beauty of each season.
Wintertime at the farm was spectacular. Sometimes, it was a challenge just getting there. It took hours to maneuver the snow and ice-packed roads up the hill to the farm. When we would come to visit, my grandfather and uncle would have to plow a way with the tractor. It was a three-mile stretch of gravel roadway, winding up and down the Ozark hills. There were times when they would meet us at the edge of the gravel road, and we would slowly creep behind the tractor all the way up the hill to the farm. Once inside, we would sit by the pot-belied wood-burning stove to warm up. Our faces would become rudy and chapped from the dry wood crackling inside the stove. Grandma and Grandpa did not have central heating, and consequently, the upstairs bedrooms could be very chilly at night. I loved climbing up onto the large feather bed, and sinking down underneath the warm comforters my grandmother had lovingly quilted. Her comforters were some of the finest in the county. Brightly colored piece quilts, thick with warm batting, blanketed the four poster bed where I slept at night. No matter how much ice and snow covered the ground outside, I knew Grandma’s quilts would keep me safe and warm inside.
In the morning after a hearty breakfast, we would don our snow beast suits and ride sleds down the hill to the pond. We would slip and slide across the frozen water, tossing snowballs and watching the deer strolling through the woods nearby. After getting chilled through, I looked forward to wrapping up in Grandma’s colorful comforters while sitting by the fire and thawing out. Her steamy hot chocolate covered in marshmallow goo made coming inside worthwhile. The older I get, the colder my hands and feet become. I find myself longing to wrap up in the warmth and love of my Grandmother’s handmade comforters.
God’s love is like a warm, handmade comforter. He wraps us in His mercy and grace, and keeps us safe and warm through the dark, cold nights of winter. He shows compassion on the afflicted, and our hearts sing out with great joy. My grandmother knew the Lord. With every perfect stitch, she told His story time and again. She used her talent to express God’s love to each of us, and we saw Him through her handiwork. God’s comfort is extended through the hearts of those who love Him. I may never quilt a comforter as warm as my grandmother’s, but I can extend the warmth and welcome of Christ through love.
Share the warmth of God’s comfort with someone you know today. His compassion is everlasting, and His love never fails. We are safe in the shelter of His hand. Come inside and thaw out. He is waiting to warm you with the light of His love.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: His comfort to wrap you up, keeping you safe and warm, as He fills your heart with songs of joy. The Lord comforts His people and His compassion will never fail.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Morning Moments
Psalm 59:16 (NIV)
But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love;
For you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.
Matthew 18:2-3 (NIV)
2 He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3 And he said: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Good morning!
Early in the morning, after I good night’s sleep, our grandchildren will tiptoe quietly down the hall and look for me in the study. They know I am there, reading, praying and writing. As they peek around the corner, a sheepish grin crawls across their sleepy faces. I hear them whisper, “Good morning Nanny.” Six year old Jett will flash a smile that melts the cobwebs from my heart. He wraps his arms around my neck and whispers, “I love you so, so much.” Our four year old Joshua will jump up on my lap and ask, “Is it morning time yet, Nanny?” And he will bury himself on my lap and sit there for the longest time. Two year old Emily, will lift her arms up signaling that she wants to be picked up and held. Sometimes, she falls asleep again in my arms. Emmy will bat her baby blue eyes, nod her head and say in a pronounced tone, “Nanny, I had a good rest!” She always asks if I will make her breakfast. Jett loves bacon, eggs and pancakes with lots of syrup. Joshua likes cold cereal and juice. Emily doesn’t care what I fix as long as I hold her while I do it. It won’t be long before our sweet baby Madison will be visiting Granny Deb and Pa for a Friday night pajama party. I look forward to those wonderful first of the morning moments with her. I can think of no better time of day than when the first ray of sunlight streaks across the morning sky and my grandchildren greet me with a sweet hug and kiss.
I awake very early each morning. Like my grandbabies, I tiptoe down the hall and greet my Lord and Savior with a sheepish grin and sleepy eyes. I feel like a little child again, crawling up into the arms of my Lord. He holds me, loves me, and talks to me through the wonder of His holy Word. I can think of no better way to start my day than to praise and worship Him. He is my strength, my fortress, my refuge and my song. The precious morning moments are the best of my entire day, and I cannot imagine living life without Him.
Jesus said that we must change and become like little children if we want to enter into the kingdom of Heaven. Every morning, I come into His holy presence in my pajamas, praising the Lord Jesus in the dark. I am His little child. Christ’s love for me rises up with the first ray of sunlight, streaming across His cotton candy creation. If I had my choice, I would sit on His lap all day long; yet He sends me out into His world with a song in my heart and a purpose to fulfill. I look for His face in the people I meet and greet. I hear His voice quietly reminding me He is with me. I share the Good News of His love with everyone I see. Jesus has made His home in my heart, and I, with childlike faith, love to live in His holy presence all day long.
Take time to enjoy a morning moment with the Lord today. Become a little child again. Experience God’s love in a fresh, new way. Let Him hold your heart and fill you with His everlasting love. He will hear you when you whisper, “I love you so, so much.”
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: childlike faith. Come into the presence of the Lord this morning and experience His amazing love. Jesus is waiting for you. Will you seek Him in the morning?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Psalm 59:16 (NIV)
But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love;
For you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.
Matthew 18:2-3 (NIV)
2 He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3 And he said: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Good morning!
Early in the morning, after I good night’s sleep, our grandchildren will tiptoe quietly down the hall and look for me in the study. They know I am there, reading, praying and writing. As they peek around the corner, a sheepish grin crawls across their sleepy faces. I hear them whisper, “Good morning Nanny.” Six year old Jett will flash a smile that melts the cobwebs from my heart. He wraps his arms around my neck and whispers, “I love you so, so much.” Our four year old Joshua will jump up on my lap and ask, “Is it morning time yet, Nanny?” And he will bury himself on my lap and sit there for the longest time. Two year old Emily, will lift her arms up signaling that she wants to be picked up and held. Sometimes, she falls asleep again in my arms. Emmy will bat her baby blue eyes, nod her head and say in a pronounced tone, “Nanny, I had a good rest!” She always asks if I will make her breakfast. Jett loves bacon, eggs and pancakes with lots of syrup. Joshua likes cold cereal and juice. Emily doesn’t care what I fix as long as I hold her while I do it. It won’t be long before our sweet baby Madison will be visiting Granny Deb and Pa for a Friday night pajama party. I look forward to those wonderful first of the morning moments with her. I can think of no better time of day than when the first ray of sunlight streaks across the morning sky and my grandchildren greet me with a sweet hug and kiss.
I awake very early each morning. Like my grandbabies, I tiptoe down the hall and greet my Lord and Savior with a sheepish grin and sleepy eyes. I feel like a little child again, crawling up into the arms of my Lord. He holds me, loves me, and talks to me through the wonder of His holy Word. I can think of no better way to start my day than to praise and worship Him. He is my strength, my fortress, my refuge and my song. The precious morning moments are the best of my entire day, and I cannot imagine living life without Him.
Jesus said that we must change and become like little children if we want to enter into the kingdom of Heaven. Every morning, I come into His holy presence in my pajamas, praising the Lord Jesus in the dark. I am His little child. Christ’s love for me rises up with the first ray of sunlight, streaming across His cotton candy creation. If I had my choice, I would sit on His lap all day long; yet He sends me out into His world with a song in my heart and a purpose to fulfill. I look for His face in the people I meet and greet. I hear His voice quietly reminding me He is with me. I share the Good News of His love with everyone I see. Jesus has made His home in my heart, and I, with childlike faith, love to live in His holy presence all day long.
Take time to enjoy a morning moment with the Lord today. Become a little child again. Experience God’s love in a fresh, new way. Let Him hold your heart and fill you with His everlasting love. He will hear you when you whisper, “I love you so, so much.”
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: childlike faith. Come into the presence of the Lord this morning and experience His amazing love. Jesus is waiting for you. Will you seek Him in the morning?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Exposing our heart
Psalm 19:14 (NIV)
14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Good morning!
I have a true confession to make. There are times when I have opened my mouth and said something that I regretted the instant it rolled off my tongue. Have you ever done this before? Sometimes I find myself holding my tongue when I should speak up. Something happens; someone says something and I really want to respond. Yet, instead of voicing what I believe to be true in my heart, I choose to remain silent. Why do I do that?
Our thoughts and words define who we are. We take a risk every time we speak up and we take a risk when we choose to remain silent. We risk being rejected, and rejection can be a painful experience. There is a desire within every human heart to understand and to be understood. Is it easier for you to be elusive or honest? Do others know who you really are, or would you prefer to keep them at arm’s length?
Communication is a necessary element to building relationships that last. God created us for relationship. He gifts us with the ability of self-expression, through art, music, intellect and language. When we choose to take a risk by sharing our hearts, we open the door to the potential for amazing and everlasting relationships. When we choose to open our heart and mind to God through prayer, He hears us and answers our cries for help. Through prayer, our love for Him grows deeper day by day. We learn to trust Him completely as we express our innermost thoughts, dreams and desires. We risk exposing our imperfections, trusting Him to help us heal and change. Do you ever wonder if God might reject you, if He really knew your heart?
What would you say if you knew God was listening to every word you spoke? What would you think about if you realized that God discerns all of your thoughts from afar? There are times when my thoughts and words are not what I want them to be. This morning, I am asking Him to take my words and my thoughts, and make them pleasing to Him. He has the power to change my life, and when I trust Him with all that I am, He makes me into the person I truly want to be - His precious child.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: relationship that lasts. Ask God to take your thoughts, your words, and your imperfections and make them pleasing in His sight. There is no greater relationship than the one He offers you through faith in Jesus Christ. Won’t you risk your heart on Him today?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Psalm 19:14 (NIV)
14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Good morning!
I have a true confession to make. There are times when I have opened my mouth and said something that I regretted the instant it rolled off my tongue. Have you ever done this before? Sometimes I find myself holding my tongue when I should speak up. Something happens; someone says something and I really want to respond. Yet, instead of voicing what I believe to be true in my heart, I choose to remain silent. Why do I do that?
Our thoughts and words define who we are. We take a risk every time we speak up and we take a risk when we choose to remain silent. We risk being rejected, and rejection can be a painful experience. There is a desire within every human heart to understand and to be understood. Is it easier for you to be elusive or honest? Do others know who you really are, or would you prefer to keep them at arm’s length?
Communication is a necessary element to building relationships that last. God created us for relationship. He gifts us with the ability of self-expression, through art, music, intellect and language. When we choose to take a risk by sharing our hearts, we open the door to the potential for amazing and everlasting relationships. When we choose to open our heart and mind to God through prayer, He hears us and answers our cries for help. Through prayer, our love for Him grows deeper day by day. We learn to trust Him completely as we express our innermost thoughts, dreams and desires. We risk exposing our imperfections, trusting Him to help us heal and change. Do you ever wonder if God might reject you, if He really knew your heart?
What would you say if you knew God was listening to every word you spoke? What would you think about if you realized that God discerns all of your thoughts from afar? There are times when my thoughts and words are not what I want them to be. This morning, I am asking Him to take my words and my thoughts, and make them pleasing to Him. He has the power to change my life, and when I trust Him with all that I am, He makes me into the person I truly want to be - His precious child.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: relationship that lasts. Ask God to take your thoughts, your words, and your imperfections and make them pleasing in His sight. There is no greater relationship than the one He offers you through faith in Jesus Christ. Won’t you risk your heart on Him today?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
The gift of life
Matthew 2:11 (NIV)
11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.
Good morning!
Part of the fun of the annual Christmas shopping excursion is seeking out the “perfect” gift for each family member. It really is a lot more fun than it looks. If any of you saw my picture plastered on the front page of the St. Louis Post Dispatch on Black Friday, please disregard the extraordinarily tired glare and the dark, black circles underneath my eyes. I really was having a great time (even though one might not guess that at first glance.) Of all the thousands of people out at 5am on Black Friday, I must have looked the most pathetic because the newspaper photographer took great delight in snapping my picture and posting it in the Saturday morning edition. Nothing says “Merry Christmas” quite like the perfect gift purchased at half price! Some things are worth getting up early for!
We spent a wonderful time with our children and grandchildren and our nieces, and their new babies yesterday. Pastor Jeff had the privilege of baptizing two of our great nieces on Christmas Eve. Little Samantha was sufficiently traumatized as she was taken from her mother’s arms by a big man in a black robe – she screamed the entire time! And on Christmas Day, every time she caught a glimpse of her great uncle, that precious baby girl started crying all over again! Sometimes, preachers can be very scary people.
We watched with delight as our grandbabies unwrapped their tiny treasures. The greatest gifts of all were not the presents wrapped in shiny Christmas paper embellished with ribbons and bows, sitting underneath the Christmas tree. Our children and grandchildren, parents and grandparents, nieces and nephews – they are our gift. Spending time with family and friends is the best present of all. There is no greater gift than the gift of life.
Wise men traveled a long way to see the newborn King. When they finally arrived at the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary. With great joy, they bowed down to worship Him. Then, they placed their very best treasure at His feet. Experiencing the gift of life always makes the journey worthwhile. Making time to worship the newborn King is time well spent. And the very best gift we can give our King is the gift of our heart. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life. Come and celebrate the gift today. Won’t you give the Christ child your greatest treasure? Won’t you give Him your heart?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: life! There is no greater gift than the gift of life that Jesus Christ offers to you. Give Him your heart, and receive the gift of everlasting life today.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Matthew 2:11 (NIV)
11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.
Good morning!
Part of the fun of the annual Christmas shopping excursion is seeking out the “perfect” gift for each family member. It really is a lot more fun than it looks. If any of you saw my picture plastered on the front page of the St. Louis Post Dispatch on Black Friday, please disregard the extraordinarily tired glare and the dark, black circles underneath my eyes. I really was having a great time (even though one might not guess that at first glance.) Of all the thousands of people out at 5am on Black Friday, I must have looked the most pathetic because the newspaper photographer took great delight in snapping my picture and posting it in the Saturday morning edition. Nothing says “Merry Christmas” quite like the perfect gift purchased at half price! Some things are worth getting up early for!
We spent a wonderful time with our children and grandchildren and our nieces, and their new babies yesterday. Pastor Jeff had the privilege of baptizing two of our great nieces on Christmas Eve. Little Samantha was sufficiently traumatized as she was taken from her mother’s arms by a big man in a black robe – she screamed the entire time! And on Christmas Day, every time she caught a glimpse of her great uncle, that precious baby girl started crying all over again! Sometimes, preachers can be very scary people.
We watched with delight as our grandbabies unwrapped their tiny treasures. The greatest gifts of all were not the presents wrapped in shiny Christmas paper embellished with ribbons and bows, sitting underneath the Christmas tree. Our children and grandchildren, parents and grandparents, nieces and nephews – they are our gift. Spending time with family and friends is the best present of all. There is no greater gift than the gift of life.
Wise men traveled a long way to see the newborn King. When they finally arrived at the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary. With great joy, they bowed down to worship Him. Then, they placed their very best treasure at His feet. Experiencing the gift of life always makes the journey worthwhile. Making time to worship the newborn King is time well spent. And the very best gift we can give our King is the gift of our heart. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life. Come and celebrate the gift today. Won’t you give the Christ child your greatest treasure? Won’t you give Him your heart?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: life! There is no greater gift than the gift of life that Jesus Christ offers to you. Give Him your heart, and receive the gift of everlasting life today.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Monday, December 25, 2006
The Shepherd's Staff
Psalm 23:4 (NIV)
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Luke 2:8; 15 (NIV)
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
Merry Christmas!
The sanctuary at Faith Church was more beautiful last night than I had ever seen it before. The building architecture lends itself to a worshipful experience. When I first stepped into this sanctuary six years ago, I was immediately drawn to the presence of the Holy Spirit hovering above. It is no coincidence that this precious congregation bears the name, “Faith Church.” It is a perfect description of the family I have come to know and love. I have witnessed many souls come to Christ at the altar of Faith. I, along with countless others, have knelt for Holy Communion, recommitting our lives to Jesus Christ, repenting of sin, and feeling His forgiveness wash over us time and again. I have sat in its pews and observed the wedding ceremonies of many precious couples. Two of my children were married at Faith church. I’ve watched in awe as their children were presented for holy baptism. I have heard the testimonies of God’s great mercy within the walls of this sanctuary. I have listened to the prayers of the people. I have stood at the altar with a choir of angels, singing praises to the one who deserves all glory and honor. There is no place I would rather be than in this very room tonight, watching and waiting for the arrival of our infant King.
As I knelt in prayer before the Lord, I saw the sun fade into darkness, and the mystery of this holy night fall across the room. I gazed at the lights beaming brightly from the beautiful Chrismon tree, and marveled at the beauty of each burning candle. The tiny flames resembled angels, dancing for joy at the birth of Lord Jesus. I held the tiny Christ from the manger bed in my hand, and my heart was filled with thanksgiving for the greatest gift of all. This is the night we remember how our Lord came into the world, bringing light and life to all people. Would we see Him for who He truly is tonight? Will we begin to understand the magnitude of His amazing gift of His salvation?
I could not help but notice the Shepherd’s staff, nestled amid a sea of flaming red poinsettias, near the pulpit where the pastor would speak. It stands as a reminder of our Father’s loving hand, protecting and guiding us every day. From the pew, the Shepherd’s staff was difficult to see; as I approached the altar, the staff took on a distinct and holy presence. I found myself drawn to its simple beauty. The Shepherds carried a staff to rescue their sheep, which may have gone astray or were caught in thorny bushes. The staff is extended to the lambs who had slipped and fallen through the cracks of the earth’s broken ground. The Shepherd’s staff provides support and balance to every weary traveler, suffering from exhaustion and despair. It is a reminder of our faithful and good Shepherd, who revives us day by day. We are never too far from His reach. His staff gently comforts and protects us as we travel toward the light.
It is my prayer that you will reach out and take hold of the Shepherd’s staff this Christmas Day. Let the wonder of the Christ child transform your life. He resides in the hearts of all who call upon His name in faith. He will never let you go. Let His staff comfort you today, tomorrow and forevermore. The Christ child was born for you and for me. He is our Good Shepherd, our Savior and King.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the Christ child to be born in your heart today. Reach out and touch the Shepherd’s staff, and be transformed by the power of His amazing grace, mercy and love.
_________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Psalm 23:4 (NIV)
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Luke 2:8; 15 (NIV)
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
Merry Christmas!
The sanctuary at Faith Church was more beautiful last night than I had ever seen it before. The building architecture lends itself to a worshipful experience. When I first stepped into this sanctuary six years ago, I was immediately drawn to the presence of the Holy Spirit hovering above. It is no coincidence that this precious congregation bears the name, “Faith Church.” It is a perfect description of the family I have come to know and love. I have witnessed many souls come to Christ at the altar of Faith. I, along with countless others, have knelt for Holy Communion, recommitting our lives to Jesus Christ, repenting of sin, and feeling His forgiveness wash over us time and again. I have sat in its pews and observed the wedding ceremonies of many precious couples. Two of my children were married at Faith church. I’ve watched in awe as their children were presented for holy baptism. I have heard the testimonies of God’s great mercy within the walls of this sanctuary. I have listened to the prayers of the people. I have stood at the altar with a choir of angels, singing praises to the one who deserves all glory and honor. There is no place I would rather be than in this very room tonight, watching and waiting for the arrival of our infant King.
As I knelt in prayer before the Lord, I saw the sun fade into darkness, and the mystery of this holy night fall across the room. I gazed at the lights beaming brightly from the beautiful Chrismon tree, and marveled at the beauty of each burning candle. The tiny flames resembled angels, dancing for joy at the birth of Lord Jesus. I held the tiny Christ from the manger bed in my hand, and my heart was filled with thanksgiving for the greatest gift of all. This is the night we remember how our Lord came into the world, bringing light and life to all people. Would we see Him for who He truly is tonight? Will we begin to understand the magnitude of His amazing gift of His salvation?
I could not help but notice the Shepherd’s staff, nestled amid a sea of flaming red poinsettias, near the pulpit where the pastor would speak. It stands as a reminder of our Father’s loving hand, protecting and guiding us every day. From the pew, the Shepherd’s staff was difficult to see; as I approached the altar, the staff took on a distinct and holy presence. I found myself drawn to its simple beauty. The Shepherds carried a staff to rescue their sheep, which may have gone astray or were caught in thorny bushes. The staff is extended to the lambs who had slipped and fallen through the cracks of the earth’s broken ground. The Shepherd’s staff provides support and balance to every weary traveler, suffering from exhaustion and despair. It is a reminder of our faithful and good Shepherd, who revives us day by day. We are never too far from His reach. His staff gently comforts and protects us as we travel toward the light.
It is my prayer that you will reach out and take hold of the Shepherd’s staff this Christmas Day. Let the wonder of the Christ child transform your life. He resides in the hearts of all who call upon His name in faith. He will never let you go. Let His staff comfort you today, tomorrow and forevermore. The Christ child was born for you and for me. He is our Good Shepherd, our Savior and King.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the Christ child to be born in your heart today. Reach out and touch the Shepherd’s staff, and be transformed by the power of His amazing grace, mercy and love.
_________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
NO VACANCY
Luke 2:7 (NIV)
7 And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
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.
Good morning!
Every year, Jeff and I try to find a few days to sneak away for a mini-vacation. Juggling school and work makes it difficult to find a suitable time to be away. There are times when we find ourselves traveling spur-of-the-moment, not having made hotel reservations in advance. Occasionally, and especially when we are traveling in inclement weather, we may choose to exit at the nearest town and begin to search for a place to stay, rather than travel on in the dark. There is nothing more agonizing than seeking out a hotel room on a cold, rainy night, only to see the red “NO VACANCY” sign lighting up the night sky.
The flashing marquee single-handedly pulls the welcome mat right out from under your feet. “There is no room for you; be on your way,” it screams at the road-weary traveler. One knows better than to stop and inquire, for it is a total waste of time. The hotel has been booked solid for weeks, and there is no room for you. Tired and anxious, we continue on in the dark, hoping to find a safe and warm place to stay just a few miles down the road.
On the night of Jesus’ birth, there were no vacancies in the tiny town of Bethlehem. People had traveled many miles to be counted in a census, as required by the Roman authorities. It was impossible to call ahead for a room reservation. Mary and Joseph found themselves with a true emergency; no one seemed to care to help them. A King was coming; yet no one made room for His arrival. The innkeeper, along with every other family in town, was too preoccupied with their own needs to extend a helping hand to Mary and Joseph. While many residents of this sleepy little town slept soundly in their beds, the Savior of the world was born that night in a cold and stinky cattle stall.
Jesus understood the importance of having a safe place to stay. He assured His disciples that in His Father’s house, there are many rooms, and He was going there to prepare a special place just for them. Isn’t it comforting to know that the Lord of life has planned and prepared a place just for you? Isn’t it amazing that Jesus Christ would go to prepare a special place just for us, when we could have cared less about Him?
Today is Christmas Eve – the long-awaited time of celebration has arrived! We gather together in worship and praise, celebrating the birthday of our infant King. Will Jesus find a “no vacancy” sign hanging around your neck when He arrives? Have you made space in your heart for His imminent return? Open up your heart today and ask the Lord to come inside and stay. He will fill your life with tender mercy and forgiveness, guiding you safely home to Him. Have you room in your life for the arrival of the Christ child?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus to live in you. He is waiting for an invitation to come inside and stay. Come home to Jesus for Christmas. I’ll see you at church!
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Luke 2:7 (NIV)
7 And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
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.
Good morning!
Every year, Jeff and I try to find a few days to sneak away for a mini-vacation. Juggling school and work makes it difficult to find a suitable time to be away. There are times when we find ourselves traveling spur-of-the-moment, not having made hotel reservations in advance. Occasionally, and especially when we are traveling in inclement weather, we may choose to exit at the nearest town and begin to search for a place to stay, rather than travel on in the dark. There is nothing more agonizing than seeking out a hotel room on a cold, rainy night, only to see the red “NO VACANCY” sign lighting up the night sky.
The flashing marquee single-handedly pulls the welcome mat right out from under your feet. “There is no room for you; be on your way,” it screams at the road-weary traveler. One knows better than to stop and inquire, for it is a total waste of time. The hotel has been booked solid for weeks, and there is no room for you. Tired and anxious, we continue on in the dark, hoping to find a safe and warm place to stay just a few miles down the road.
On the night of Jesus’ birth, there were no vacancies in the tiny town of Bethlehem. People had traveled many miles to be counted in a census, as required by the Roman authorities. It was impossible to call ahead for a room reservation. Mary and Joseph found themselves with a true emergency; no one seemed to care to help them. A King was coming; yet no one made room for His arrival. The innkeeper, along with every other family in town, was too preoccupied with their own needs to extend a helping hand to Mary and Joseph. While many residents of this sleepy little town slept soundly in their beds, the Savior of the world was born that night in a cold and stinky cattle stall.
Jesus understood the importance of having a safe place to stay. He assured His disciples that in His Father’s house, there are many rooms, and He was going there to prepare a special place just for them. Isn’t it comforting to know that the Lord of life has planned and prepared a place just for you? Isn’t it amazing that Jesus Christ would go to prepare a special place just for us, when we could have cared less about Him?
Today is Christmas Eve – the long-awaited time of celebration has arrived! We gather together in worship and praise, celebrating the birthday of our infant King. Will Jesus find a “no vacancy” sign hanging around your neck when He arrives? Have you made space in your heart for His imminent return? Open up your heart today and ask the Lord to come inside and stay. He will fill your life with tender mercy and forgiveness, guiding you safely home to Him. Have you room in your life for the arrival of the Christ child?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus to live in you. He is waiting for an invitation to come inside and stay. Come home to Jesus for Christmas. I’ll see you at church!
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
A Mother's Heart
Luke 2:19 (NIV)
19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
Good morning!
The experience of becoming a mother is a holy moment. Making a lifelong commitment to loving and nurturing a tiny human being is a tremendous responsibility most women are not completely prepared for. We could use a “how to” manual from time to time. My mom relied on Doctor Spock when I was a child. If Doctor Spock didn’t address it in his book, then it just wasn’t that important. Where do mothers go to find the answers to their most burning questions? Who will this child be when he grows up? Which is the best way to teach this child everything he needs to know so that he will be a self-sufficient and well-balanced adult? What can I possibly offer to this new little life, when I’m still trying to grow up myself? Will I have what it takes for the long haul? Will my son still love me when I’m old and gray? What if I mess up? Will this child ever forgive me?
Hormonally challenged women discover a whole new realm of emotion during pregnancy. Pregnant women worry about everything! Some of us are giddy and cheerful, happy to be having a baby, and feeling really good about it. Others of us cry at the drop of a hat. If you look at us the wrong way, we may burst into tears for no apparent reason. It is true that one does not have to be pregnant to experience this roller coaster of emotion; however, these traits seem to be much more noticeable as a woman eagerly awaits the birth of her child.
My parents waited a long time to have children. I was adopted. My mother was unable to carry a baby to term. She went through several heart-breaking miscarriages before they finally made a decision to adopt. She tells me that the day she got the phone call from the adoption agency announcing my arrival was the happiest day of her life. Immediately, she jumped into “mommy mode.” Cloth diapers were washed and hung outside to dry. The hope chest was opened, and handmade blankets she had saved for this special occasion were placed in the empty nursery, in anticipation of the child to be born. Bottles were boiled, sheets were bleached, and pink curtains were hung. It’s a girl! We are going to have a baby girl! I can still hear the quiver in my mother’s voice when she tells me about the first time she saw me. It reminds me of how I felt the first time I saw my baby girl’s sweet face. Motherhood moments are awesome!
Mary was given an overwhelming task. She willingly agreed to give birth and raise the Son of the Most High. Mary knew this child would not be like any other. She pondered all of the things that new mothers wonder and worry about. Yet, Mary felt an even deeper sense of responsibility, to help this baby boy grow up in God’s grace and wisdom. She treasured all of these things and pondered them in her heart. Mary did not know what the future held; yet she knew who held the future, and was content to give her anxiety to the Father. Mary’s faith and trust in God was enough to see her through each and every motherhood moment.
As we celebrate the birthday of our Savior, may we look through the eyes of a young teenage girl, who lived out a life of incredible faith. Young Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, put her total trust in God, and He equipped her with everything she needed to raise an amazing young man. A mother’s heart is a priceless treasure. Are you willing to give it up for the Lord? Are you willing to trust Him completely today?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to give you the faith you need to do the work He has called you to do. We may not know what the future holds, but we know who holds the future, and that is enough.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Luke 2:19 (NIV)
19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
Good morning!
The experience of becoming a mother is a holy moment. Making a lifelong commitment to loving and nurturing a tiny human being is a tremendous responsibility most women are not completely prepared for. We could use a “how to” manual from time to time. My mom relied on Doctor Spock when I was a child. If Doctor Spock didn’t address it in his book, then it just wasn’t that important. Where do mothers go to find the answers to their most burning questions? Who will this child be when he grows up? Which is the best way to teach this child everything he needs to know so that he will be a self-sufficient and well-balanced adult? What can I possibly offer to this new little life, when I’m still trying to grow up myself? Will I have what it takes for the long haul? Will my son still love me when I’m old and gray? What if I mess up? Will this child ever forgive me?
Hormonally challenged women discover a whole new realm of emotion during pregnancy. Pregnant women worry about everything! Some of us are giddy and cheerful, happy to be having a baby, and feeling really good about it. Others of us cry at the drop of a hat. If you look at us the wrong way, we may burst into tears for no apparent reason. It is true that one does not have to be pregnant to experience this roller coaster of emotion; however, these traits seem to be much more noticeable as a woman eagerly awaits the birth of her child.
My parents waited a long time to have children. I was adopted. My mother was unable to carry a baby to term. She went through several heart-breaking miscarriages before they finally made a decision to adopt. She tells me that the day she got the phone call from the adoption agency announcing my arrival was the happiest day of her life. Immediately, she jumped into “mommy mode.” Cloth diapers were washed and hung outside to dry. The hope chest was opened, and handmade blankets she had saved for this special occasion were placed in the empty nursery, in anticipation of the child to be born. Bottles were boiled, sheets were bleached, and pink curtains were hung. It’s a girl! We are going to have a baby girl! I can still hear the quiver in my mother’s voice when she tells me about the first time she saw me. It reminds me of how I felt the first time I saw my baby girl’s sweet face. Motherhood moments are awesome!
Mary was given an overwhelming task. She willingly agreed to give birth and raise the Son of the Most High. Mary knew this child would not be like any other. She pondered all of the things that new mothers wonder and worry about. Yet, Mary felt an even deeper sense of responsibility, to help this baby boy grow up in God’s grace and wisdom. She treasured all of these things and pondered them in her heart. Mary did not know what the future held; yet she knew who held the future, and was content to give her anxiety to the Father. Mary’s faith and trust in God was enough to see her through each and every motherhood moment.
As we celebrate the birthday of our Savior, may we look through the eyes of a young teenage girl, who lived out a life of incredible faith. Young Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, put her total trust in God, and He equipped her with everything she needed to raise an amazing young man. A mother’s heart is a priceless treasure. Are you willing to give it up for the Lord? Are you willing to trust Him completely today?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to give you the faith you need to do the work He has called you to do. We may not know what the future holds, but we know who holds the future, and that is enough.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Transparent Glass
Revelation 21:22 (NIV)
22 The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass.
Good morning!
Last summer, I enjoyed a stroll through the Missouri Botanical Gardens in Saint Louis with my son, daughter-in-law and grandson. We were there to see the Chihuly glass exhibit by renowned sculptor and artist, Dale Chihuly. This exhibit is impressive. He captures light and motion with his unique glass creations. In the daylight, the sun adds shimmers of rainbow, effervescent light bouncing across the glass medium. At night, many of the glass sculptures are silhouetted with spotlights, liberating its mysterious glow. There is nothing more fascinating than a piece of hand-blown glass, sparkling in the dark.
Our family likes to hang glass ornament angels on our tree at Christmas. We strategically place them in front of a tiny lit Christmas bulb, and marvel at how the sparkling reflection forms rainbow patterns across the wall, ceiling and hard-wood floor. Every Christmas Eve, Jeff and I enjoy a midnight ride from church to our home. We admire the many Christmas lights adorning the rooftops of our neighbor’s homes. Our subdivision places luminary candles outside along our driveways and sidewalks every Christmas Eve, lighting the way for the arrival of baby Jesus. We prepare to receive our newborn King.
The Apostle John was given a glimpse of the Kingdom of God while exiled on the island of Patmos. He described the great street of the city as pure gold, transparent like glass. Close your eyes and imagine what John may have seen in his vision. A great road, built upon the firm foundation of Christ, leading children to the arms of their Heavenly Father. A golden, transparent glass, shimmering in the light of His love – something so beautiful there are no words to adequately describe it.
When we worship, we invite Jesus Christ to take our ugly and sinful hearts and change them into transparent glass, personally sculpted by the Master’s hand. He has the power to illuminate your life with His love. There is no sin too big, and no person too far away that Jesus cannot reach. This Christmas as you gaze upon the lights shimmering on your tree, ask Jesus to give you a transparent heart. Ask Him to take your sin away and give you new life. He will do it because He loves you that much. And when others look at you, they will see the light of Christ shining, as transparent glass, illuminating the dark. Will you let the celebration of His birth change your heart this Christmas? Are you ready to give Jesus your life?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus to give you a transparent heart, filled with His light and love. You can be reborn today. All you have to do is ask.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Revelation 21:22 (NIV)
22 The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass.
Good morning!
Last summer, I enjoyed a stroll through the Missouri Botanical Gardens in Saint Louis with my son, daughter-in-law and grandson. We were there to see the Chihuly glass exhibit by renowned sculptor and artist, Dale Chihuly. This exhibit is impressive. He captures light and motion with his unique glass creations. In the daylight, the sun adds shimmers of rainbow, effervescent light bouncing across the glass medium. At night, many of the glass sculptures are silhouetted with spotlights, liberating its mysterious glow. There is nothing more fascinating than a piece of hand-blown glass, sparkling in the dark.
Our family likes to hang glass ornament angels on our tree at Christmas. We strategically place them in front of a tiny lit Christmas bulb, and marvel at how the sparkling reflection forms rainbow patterns across the wall, ceiling and hard-wood floor. Every Christmas Eve, Jeff and I enjoy a midnight ride from church to our home. We admire the many Christmas lights adorning the rooftops of our neighbor’s homes. Our subdivision places luminary candles outside along our driveways and sidewalks every Christmas Eve, lighting the way for the arrival of baby Jesus. We prepare to receive our newborn King.
The Apostle John was given a glimpse of the Kingdom of God while exiled on the island of Patmos. He described the great street of the city as pure gold, transparent like glass. Close your eyes and imagine what John may have seen in his vision. A great road, built upon the firm foundation of Christ, leading children to the arms of their Heavenly Father. A golden, transparent glass, shimmering in the light of His love – something so beautiful there are no words to adequately describe it.
When we worship, we invite Jesus Christ to take our ugly and sinful hearts and change them into transparent glass, personally sculpted by the Master’s hand. He has the power to illuminate your life with His love. There is no sin too big, and no person too far away that Jesus cannot reach. This Christmas as you gaze upon the lights shimmering on your tree, ask Jesus to give you a transparent heart. Ask Him to take your sin away and give you new life. He will do it because He loves you that much. And when others look at you, they will see the light of Christ shining, as transparent glass, illuminating the dark. Will you let the celebration of His birth change your heart this Christmas? Are you ready to give Jesus your life?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus to give you a transparent heart, filled with His light and love. You can be reborn today. All you have to do is ask.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Christmas Picture
Luke 2:6-7 (NIV)
6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Good morning!
Sharing family photo albums and snapping Christmas pictures is a time-honored tradition in the family Spaulding. When our children were little, they would cringe each time I grabbed the camera and said, “Look at me and smile!” “Oh mom, not another picture,” they would moan. “Don’t you have enough already?” Four rolls of film may not be quite enough to adequately document the special day. I keep an extra roll or two handy, just in case. It is a well-known fact that an avid scrapbooker will never have enough Christmas pictures to crop. Now that my children are grown and are having children of their own, it’s fun to watch how they whip out cameras and snap photographs of their children each year. My daughter, daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law to be, all have the scrapbooking bug, much to my delight. Some of our best times are spent cropping family photographs and sharing our memories together.
A photograph captures the special moments of life. As our family continues to grow, we have a visual aid reminding us of how we once looked, what we may have been up to, and even how we might be feeling at that particular moment. Some of my favorite photographs are those which were taken many years before I was born. I can enjoy pictures of my great-grandparents with their parents in some of the older photos my family passed down through the years. It gives me a point of reference to a time that I know little of. Their vision for a future and hope are captured on film. I can see it in their eyes.
If it had been possible, could you imagine what photographs might have revealed about the birth of our Lord Jesus on the night he was born? Luke paints an eloquent picture with words in his Gospel account of Christ’s birth. He said, “While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” I can see a young mother who had just given birth. She wrapped her newborn baby boy in cloths and tucked him safely into a manger bed, to keep him warm and protected in the first hours of his earthly life. There were no vacancies at the inn; no private place to give birth. Mary rested in the company of the animals in the stable that night. She was probably cold, exhausted, and scared. Who wouldn’t be in that situation? Luke’s narrative captures the moment perfectly. His picture of the infant King is mounted on the hearts of all who believe. It is a scrapbook moment, worth sharing again and again.
When you gather with your family and friends this Christmas, be sure to pull out God’s Word and take a closer look at the picture of our infant King. This is a story worth telling again and again. Take a look at that beautiful baby’s face. Can you see your salvation in His eyes?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to paint a wondrous picture in your mind and heart, as you recall the birth of Jesus Christ. He came to save you. He came to love. Can you see it?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Luke 2:6-7 (NIV)
6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Good morning!
Sharing family photo albums and snapping Christmas pictures is a time-honored tradition in the family Spaulding. When our children were little, they would cringe each time I grabbed the camera and said, “Look at me and smile!” “Oh mom, not another picture,” they would moan. “Don’t you have enough already?” Four rolls of film may not be quite enough to adequately document the special day. I keep an extra roll or two handy, just in case. It is a well-known fact that an avid scrapbooker will never have enough Christmas pictures to crop. Now that my children are grown and are having children of their own, it’s fun to watch how they whip out cameras and snap photographs of their children each year. My daughter, daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law to be, all have the scrapbooking bug, much to my delight. Some of our best times are spent cropping family photographs and sharing our memories together.
A photograph captures the special moments of life. As our family continues to grow, we have a visual aid reminding us of how we once looked, what we may have been up to, and even how we might be feeling at that particular moment. Some of my favorite photographs are those which were taken many years before I was born. I can enjoy pictures of my great-grandparents with their parents in some of the older photos my family passed down through the years. It gives me a point of reference to a time that I know little of. Their vision for a future and hope are captured on film. I can see it in their eyes.
If it had been possible, could you imagine what photographs might have revealed about the birth of our Lord Jesus on the night he was born? Luke paints an eloquent picture with words in his Gospel account of Christ’s birth. He said, “While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” I can see a young mother who had just given birth. She wrapped her newborn baby boy in cloths and tucked him safely into a manger bed, to keep him warm and protected in the first hours of his earthly life. There were no vacancies at the inn; no private place to give birth. Mary rested in the company of the animals in the stable that night. She was probably cold, exhausted, and scared. Who wouldn’t be in that situation? Luke’s narrative captures the moment perfectly. His picture of the infant King is mounted on the hearts of all who believe. It is a scrapbook moment, worth sharing again and again.
When you gather with your family and friends this Christmas, be sure to pull out God’s Word and take a closer look at the picture of our infant King. This is a story worth telling again and again. Take a look at that beautiful baby’s face. Can you see your salvation in His eyes?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to paint a wondrous picture in your mind and heart, as you recall the birth of Jesus Christ. He came to save you. He came to love. Can you see it?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Good news travels fast!
Luke 2:10-13 (NIV)
10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.
11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.
12 This will be a sign to you: You will find the baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Good morning!
It has been said that good news travels fast! When I was a child growing up in the early sixties, our family paid for party-line phone service. A party-line was inexpensive, enabling several families to share the same telephone line. It didn’t happen often, but occasionally, we would pick up the phone and hear someone else’s conversation. If we chose to eavesdrop, we could hear about the lives of our friends and neighbors down the block. Our parents told us to hang up the phone out of respect for others’ privacy, but it was tempting to listen in, and sometimes, we did just that.
With the emergence of single phone lines, elimination of the rotary dial, and the dawn of cellular and wireless service, my parents chose to continue with their rotary dial, party-line telephone. The phone company could not force folks to upgrade their service, even though most people choose the newer model telephones and increased service capabilities. My parents were very frugal. They liked paying $9 a month for their phone service. We used a rotary dial phone until my mother sold her home and moved to a retirement community. Mom was appalled that she was unable to get the same monthly phone rate in her new apartment. She thought $30 a month was way too much for phone service, and she complains periodically about the cost, even today!
Our children and grandchildren may never fully understand the delight of receiving a long-awaited letter from a loved one that arrives through the US Postal Service. Today, we communicate instantaneously through wireless internet and phone service. We have overnight delivery, same-day delivery, cab service, hand-delivery, e-mail and voice mail. When the cable goes down or we lose our satellite, we feel lost and suddenly alone! How will we ever survive?
Long ago, lowly shepherds lived in the fields with their flocks. It must have been a really quiet existence, sitting underneath a star-lit sky, with no cell phone or blackberry. The shepherds had no one to speak to except God and their sheep. It is no wonder they were terrified when angels appeared in the night sky with the greatest news ever told. The heavenly host proclaimed the good news - an infant Savior had been born for ALL the people. The angels gave detailed, step-by-step directions to find the Christ child. “Follow the star to the city of Bethlehem. Look for a baby wrapped in cloths, lying in a manger. Go and see your salvation!”
The shepherds went to Bethlehem that night and found their newborn King. Ecstatic, the shepherds spread the news to everyone who would listen to them. Today, we continue to tell of His birth, using every possible communication tool at our disposal. Good news traveled fast then, as it does today. Who will you share the Good News of Jesus Christ with today?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: courage to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with everyone you know. Go ahead - send that Christmas card, forward an e-mail message, leave a voice mail message, and smile! An infant Savior has been born for ALL of us. Good news travels fast!
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Luke 2:10-13 (NIV)
10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.
11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.
12 This will be a sign to you: You will find the baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Good morning!
It has been said that good news travels fast! When I was a child growing up in the early sixties, our family paid for party-line phone service. A party-line was inexpensive, enabling several families to share the same telephone line. It didn’t happen often, but occasionally, we would pick up the phone and hear someone else’s conversation. If we chose to eavesdrop, we could hear about the lives of our friends and neighbors down the block. Our parents told us to hang up the phone out of respect for others’ privacy, but it was tempting to listen in, and sometimes, we did just that.
With the emergence of single phone lines, elimination of the rotary dial, and the dawn of cellular and wireless service, my parents chose to continue with their rotary dial, party-line telephone. The phone company could not force folks to upgrade their service, even though most people choose the newer model telephones and increased service capabilities. My parents were very frugal. They liked paying $9 a month for their phone service. We used a rotary dial phone until my mother sold her home and moved to a retirement community. Mom was appalled that she was unable to get the same monthly phone rate in her new apartment. She thought $30 a month was way too much for phone service, and she complains periodically about the cost, even today!
Our children and grandchildren may never fully understand the delight of receiving a long-awaited letter from a loved one that arrives through the US Postal Service. Today, we communicate instantaneously through wireless internet and phone service. We have overnight delivery, same-day delivery, cab service, hand-delivery, e-mail and voice mail. When the cable goes down or we lose our satellite, we feel lost and suddenly alone! How will we ever survive?
Long ago, lowly shepherds lived in the fields with their flocks. It must have been a really quiet existence, sitting underneath a star-lit sky, with no cell phone or blackberry. The shepherds had no one to speak to except God and their sheep. It is no wonder they were terrified when angels appeared in the night sky with the greatest news ever told. The heavenly host proclaimed the good news - an infant Savior had been born for ALL the people. The angels gave detailed, step-by-step directions to find the Christ child. “Follow the star to the city of Bethlehem. Look for a baby wrapped in cloths, lying in a manger. Go and see your salvation!”
The shepherds went to Bethlehem that night and found their newborn King. Ecstatic, the shepherds spread the news to everyone who would listen to them. Today, we continue to tell of His birth, using every possible communication tool at our disposal. Good news traveled fast then, as it does today. Who will you share the Good News of Jesus Christ with today?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: courage to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with everyone you know. Go ahead - send that Christmas card, forward an e-mail message, leave a voice mail message, and smile! An infant Savior has been born for ALL of us. Good news travels fast!
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Children of God
John 1:9-13 (NIV)
9 The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.
10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him.
11 He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him.
12 Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God -
13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.
Good morning!
I love to see the faces of little children as they sing the songs of Christmas. It was pure joy to sit with my grandchildren on the stage at their Sunday school Christmas program this past weekend. Our Emily is two and half years old. She wore a velvety red Christmas dress and white ribbed leggings with “big girl” dress shoes. A halo of silver garland was pinned on top of her long curly hair. Joshua, our four year old grandson, stood behind her, looking mighty grown up in his new red Christmas sweater. He made a fine Joseph, leaving his head piece on for the entire program. Emily, like many of her young classmates, was a tad frightened of the big stage. She went up and sat on my lap for about two minutes. One of the teenage helpers caught Emily’s attention and she jumped up to sit on her lap for awhile. A sweet little angel named Cheyenne sat with me and we sang Christmas songs together.
Sixty precious children stood and sang Silent Night, Holy Night in their loudest, most unholy voices. They shouted the words with great joy! I loved how they told about the night of Christ’s birth. Their song was full of passion as they shared the story of their sweet baby Jesus. Their rendition of Away in the Manager had a strikingly similar tone. The tiny chorus finished all three verses long before the music stopped. These children couldn’t wait to tell the Good News. Their excitement and enthusiasm was contagious. How these children love the Lord!
Children and Christmas seem to go together like cookies and milk. There is nothing more invigorating than seeing the birth of Christ through the eyes of a child. Precious little ones recognize Jesus for who He truly is. To possess a childlike faith is a gift from the Father above.
Scripture teaches that if we receive Him and believe in His holy name, God gives us the right to become His children. We are born again into the family of God, given new life through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Come peek inside the manger stall and see what the children see. Sing along with the wee ones, and experience what it means to be a child of the living God today.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus to come into your heart today. You can experience the joy of becoming a child of God when you receive and believe.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
John 1:9-13 (NIV)
9 The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.
10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him.
11 He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him.
12 Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God -
13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.
Good morning!
I love to see the faces of little children as they sing the songs of Christmas. It was pure joy to sit with my grandchildren on the stage at their Sunday school Christmas program this past weekend. Our Emily is two and half years old. She wore a velvety red Christmas dress and white ribbed leggings with “big girl” dress shoes. A halo of silver garland was pinned on top of her long curly hair. Joshua, our four year old grandson, stood behind her, looking mighty grown up in his new red Christmas sweater. He made a fine Joseph, leaving his head piece on for the entire program. Emily, like many of her young classmates, was a tad frightened of the big stage. She went up and sat on my lap for about two minutes. One of the teenage helpers caught Emily’s attention and she jumped up to sit on her lap for awhile. A sweet little angel named Cheyenne sat with me and we sang Christmas songs together.
Sixty precious children stood and sang Silent Night, Holy Night in their loudest, most unholy voices. They shouted the words with great joy! I loved how they told about the night of Christ’s birth. Their song was full of passion as they shared the story of their sweet baby Jesus. Their rendition of Away in the Manager had a strikingly similar tone. The tiny chorus finished all three verses long before the music stopped. These children couldn’t wait to tell the Good News. Their excitement and enthusiasm was contagious. How these children love the Lord!
Children and Christmas seem to go together like cookies and milk. There is nothing more invigorating than seeing the birth of Christ through the eyes of a child. Precious little ones recognize Jesus for who He truly is. To possess a childlike faith is a gift from the Father above.
Scripture teaches that if we receive Him and believe in His holy name, God gives us the right to become His children. We are born again into the family of God, given new life through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Come peek inside the manger stall and see what the children see. Sing along with the wee ones, and experience what it means to be a child of the living God today.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus to come into your heart today. You can experience the joy of becoming a child of God when you receive and believe.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Monday, December 18, 2006
The light of life
John 1:1-5 (NIV)
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 He was with God in the beginning.
3 Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made.
4 In Him was life, and that life was the light of men.
5 The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
Good morning!
I am blessed every week day to be in the company of some wonderful people. I am surrounded by Jewish tradition and culture at work. Many of my co-workers are either practicing Orthodox and/or Reformed Jews. We have a kosher kitchen in our building. Special foods are prepared for meals each day to accommodate the needs of my Jewish friends. For years I have read about the many beliefs and traditions that my Jewish brothers and sisters share; yet, for the first time, I am actually experiencing the meaning of their beliefs through their teaching and daily example.
One of my co-workers took some time last week to help me understand the importance of Hanukkah, their traditional festival of lights. With every sacred holiday, the light becomes the focal point in its worship experience. The Hanukkah lights are lit for the sole purpose of noticing the light. It is not meant to be a light to read by. The sole purpose of the light is to reflect on what it means to bring light into our world and how every person contributes to that process.
The celebration of Hanukkah occurs in the shortest daylight hours of the year. Sunlight evaporates quickly into a long and dark night. For eight consecutive evenings, the celebration of Hanukkah and the lighting of the Menorah candles illuminate the darkness with the light of God. Long ago, their forefathers showed great courage and faith as they rededicated the Temple using a small flask of oil to light the Menorah candles, kindling the sparks of faith with its own generation and to all future generations. It is an amazing thing to be able to pour out faith and hope into such a small vessel, which ultimately will shine as the light of life into the world.
Christians around the world are lighting Advent candles in worship, reminding us of the light of life, who was born long ago in a Bethlehem stable. Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of all prophecy. He was here in the beginning and He will be here in the end. We join hands together in worship and praise, celebrating His glorious and unending light.
I leave you with a burning question. If the light of life shines in the darkness, illuminating our way every moment of the day and night, why is it that the darkness cannot understand it? The light of God overcomes the dark night and faith in Him dispels fear. Spend some time today reflecting on the light of your life. If you are struggling to understand, ask the Holy Spirit to enable you to see the light for what is truly is. Ask Him to open your eyes to the wonder of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to reveal Himself to you through the light of life. Ask God for faith to see through the darkness of night. If you seek Him, He will find you.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
John 1:1-5 (NIV)
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 He was with God in the beginning.
3 Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made.
4 In Him was life, and that life was the light of men.
5 The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
Good morning!
I am blessed every week day to be in the company of some wonderful people. I am surrounded by Jewish tradition and culture at work. Many of my co-workers are either practicing Orthodox and/or Reformed Jews. We have a kosher kitchen in our building. Special foods are prepared for meals each day to accommodate the needs of my Jewish friends. For years I have read about the many beliefs and traditions that my Jewish brothers and sisters share; yet, for the first time, I am actually experiencing the meaning of their beliefs through their teaching and daily example.
One of my co-workers took some time last week to help me understand the importance of Hanukkah, their traditional festival of lights. With every sacred holiday, the light becomes the focal point in its worship experience. The Hanukkah lights are lit for the sole purpose of noticing the light. It is not meant to be a light to read by. The sole purpose of the light is to reflect on what it means to bring light into our world and how every person contributes to that process.
The celebration of Hanukkah occurs in the shortest daylight hours of the year. Sunlight evaporates quickly into a long and dark night. For eight consecutive evenings, the celebration of Hanukkah and the lighting of the Menorah candles illuminate the darkness with the light of God. Long ago, their forefathers showed great courage and faith as they rededicated the Temple using a small flask of oil to light the Menorah candles, kindling the sparks of faith with its own generation and to all future generations. It is an amazing thing to be able to pour out faith and hope into such a small vessel, which ultimately will shine as the light of life into the world.
Christians around the world are lighting Advent candles in worship, reminding us of the light of life, who was born long ago in a Bethlehem stable. Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of all prophecy. He was here in the beginning and He will be here in the end. We join hands together in worship and praise, celebrating His glorious and unending light.
I leave you with a burning question. If the light of life shines in the darkness, illuminating our way every moment of the day and night, why is it that the darkness cannot understand it? The light of God overcomes the dark night and faith in Him dispels fear. Spend some time today reflecting on the light of your life. If you are struggling to understand, ask the Holy Spirit to enable you to see the light for what is truly is. Ask Him to open your eyes to the wonder of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to reveal Himself to you through the light of life. Ask God for faith to see through the darkness of night. If you seek Him, He will find you.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Morning Star
Matthew 2:10 (NIV)
10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.
2 Peter 1:19 (NIV)
19 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the Morning Star rises in your hearts.
Revelation 22:16 (NIV)
16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.”
Good morning!
Are you a stargazer? There is nothing more beautiful than sitting outside on a clear night and looking up into the sky. In parts of Texas, where you can see for miles around you, the night sky is filled with brilliant constellations, planets and stars. Through the years, Astronomers have studied the formation and position of stars and planets, seeking a greater understanding of their longevity and existence within our solar system.
Science teaches that stars form from high concentrations in interstellar gas clouds. The pull of gravity has a great effect on the size and position of a star. The biggest difference between a star and a planet is that stars emit a light from its interior caused by nuclear burning, where the planet shines only by a reflected light.
When our children were little, we bought packages of “glow-in-the-dark” star and planet stickers, strategically placing them on the ceiling above their beds. It was an awesome thing to see our children lie down on their beds at night and gaze at the brilliant stars blanketing their ceiling. Their soft hue brought great comfort to our children as they fell asleep at night.
The wise men, having traveled thousands of miles, were overcome with joy as they followed the star that led them to the Christ child and his family in Bethlehem. When they saw the baby Jesus, the wise men bowed down to worship their Savior and King. They recognized Jesus for who He is, and wanted nothing more than to witness His light in a dark and lonely world.
A morning star is a star that rises after midnight, welcoming the bright morning sun. Our Lord Jesus is the bright morning star of our faith. Christ’s light dispels the darkness of sin and death, overcoming evil and transforming our lives as we move toward the light. He will lead us back to the Father, if we are willing to seek Him.
Have you seen the light of Christ? Are you overjoyed with His amazing love? Will you choose to be wise and seek to follow the Morning Star today? Come see the Christ child with me. Let us worship the bright Morning Star together. I’ll see you at church!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: The bright Morning Star to fill your life with His light, giving you a clear sense of direction, and hope for an even brighter tomorrow. May you find His light rising up in your heart today.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Matthew 2:10 (NIV)
10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.
2 Peter 1:19 (NIV)
19 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the Morning Star rises in your hearts.
Revelation 22:16 (NIV)
16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.”
Good morning!
Are you a stargazer? There is nothing more beautiful than sitting outside on a clear night and looking up into the sky. In parts of Texas, where you can see for miles around you, the night sky is filled with brilliant constellations, planets and stars. Through the years, Astronomers have studied the formation and position of stars and planets, seeking a greater understanding of their longevity and existence within our solar system.
Science teaches that stars form from high concentrations in interstellar gas clouds. The pull of gravity has a great effect on the size and position of a star. The biggest difference between a star and a planet is that stars emit a light from its interior caused by nuclear burning, where the planet shines only by a reflected light.
When our children were little, we bought packages of “glow-in-the-dark” star and planet stickers, strategically placing them on the ceiling above their beds. It was an awesome thing to see our children lie down on their beds at night and gaze at the brilliant stars blanketing their ceiling. Their soft hue brought great comfort to our children as they fell asleep at night.
The wise men, having traveled thousands of miles, were overcome with joy as they followed the star that led them to the Christ child and his family in Bethlehem. When they saw the baby Jesus, the wise men bowed down to worship their Savior and King. They recognized Jesus for who He is, and wanted nothing more than to witness His light in a dark and lonely world.
A morning star is a star that rises after midnight, welcoming the bright morning sun. Our Lord Jesus is the bright morning star of our faith. Christ’s light dispels the darkness of sin and death, overcoming evil and transforming our lives as we move toward the light. He will lead us back to the Father, if we are willing to seek Him.
Have you seen the light of Christ? Are you overjoyed with His amazing love? Will you choose to be wise and seek to follow the Morning Star today? Come see the Christ child with me. Let us worship the bright Morning Star together. I’ll see you at church!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: The bright Morning Star to fill your life with His light, giving you a clear sense of direction, and hope for an even brighter tomorrow. May you find His light rising up in your heart today.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
The song of Simeon
Luke 2:16 27-32 (NIV)
27 Moved by the spirit, he [Simeon] went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for Him what the custom of the Law required,
28 Simeon took Him in his arms and praised God saying,
29 Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace.
30 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for the glory to your people Israel.”
Good morning!
Simeon had waited a long time to see the face of His Lord and the consolation of Israel. He was an old man, faithful and devout in prayer, worship and praise. The Holy Spirit was with Simeon on the day baby Jesus was brought the temple to receive his blessing and circumcision, as required by the law. The Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
When Simeon entered the temple courts that day, Mary and Joseph brought the baby Jesus to him. Simeon picked the child up, held Him in his arms, and began to sing a song of praise to the Lord, prophesying who this child really was and what incredible things would occur in his life. Simeon recognized that Jesus was the one he had waited for; that his people Israel were waiting for, and that Jesus would be Israel’s glory, and a light to all the Gentiles. He knew that the Christ would cause the rising and falling of many people, and the thoughts of all hearts would be revealed through Him. Simeon knew that Mary would suffer because of baby Jesus’ rejection and her soul would be pierced by the sword of grief.
Simeon’s song is often referred to in Latin as the Nunc Dimittis. The words to the Nunc Dimittis are captured in the first phrase of Simeon’s song, “Nunc Dimittis servum tuum, Domine,” meaning, “Now thou dost dismiss thy servant, O Lord.” There was no doubt that Simeon had seen God as he held the Savior of the world in his arms that day, revealed to him by the power of the Holy Spirit. This was a song of affirmation for the glory of God, and confirmed what Mary and Joseph knew to be true in the hearts. This child is the very presence of God in their midst. Their influence in His life would help shape and form Him as he grew in wisdom and in grace. His life would change their lives forever. What a powerful song sung by a faithful and loving servant of God.
While we may never hold the baby Jesus in our arms as Simeon did that day, the Holy Spirit works in our hearts to reveal Jesus, the risen Christ. We rejoice, knowing that the baby Jesus was indeed the fulfillment of all prophecy. He is the long-awaited Messiah, our Emmanuel. He is God with us, and we can worship Him for who he really is. Come to church with me this weekend, and see for yourself what God has done. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart, so that you can sing the song of Simeon as we gather to worship our Savior.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the power of the Holy Spirit to open your eyes and reveal in your heart what you know to be true – Jesus Christ is the Holy Son of the Living God! He came to give us life, today and for every tomorrow. Let us sing the song of Simeon together as we worship our Savior and Lord.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Luke 2:16 27-32 (NIV)
27 Moved by the spirit, he [Simeon] went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for Him what the custom of the Law required,
28 Simeon took Him in his arms and praised God saying,
29 Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace.
30 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for the glory to your people Israel.”
Good morning!
Simeon had waited a long time to see the face of His Lord and the consolation of Israel. He was an old man, faithful and devout in prayer, worship and praise. The Holy Spirit was with Simeon on the day baby Jesus was brought the temple to receive his blessing and circumcision, as required by the law. The Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
When Simeon entered the temple courts that day, Mary and Joseph brought the baby Jesus to him. Simeon picked the child up, held Him in his arms, and began to sing a song of praise to the Lord, prophesying who this child really was and what incredible things would occur in his life. Simeon recognized that Jesus was the one he had waited for; that his people Israel were waiting for, and that Jesus would be Israel’s glory, and a light to all the Gentiles. He knew that the Christ would cause the rising and falling of many people, and the thoughts of all hearts would be revealed through Him. Simeon knew that Mary would suffer because of baby Jesus’ rejection and her soul would be pierced by the sword of grief.
Simeon’s song is often referred to in Latin as the Nunc Dimittis. The words to the Nunc Dimittis are captured in the first phrase of Simeon’s song, “Nunc Dimittis servum tuum, Domine,” meaning, “Now thou dost dismiss thy servant, O Lord.” There was no doubt that Simeon had seen God as he held the Savior of the world in his arms that day, revealed to him by the power of the Holy Spirit. This was a song of affirmation for the glory of God, and confirmed what Mary and Joseph knew to be true in the hearts. This child is the very presence of God in their midst. Their influence in His life would help shape and form Him as he grew in wisdom and in grace. His life would change their lives forever. What a powerful song sung by a faithful and loving servant of God.
While we may never hold the baby Jesus in our arms as Simeon did that day, the Holy Spirit works in our hearts to reveal Jesus, the risen Christ. We rejoice, knowing that the baby Jesus was indeed the fulfillment of all prophecy. He is the long-awaited Messiah, our Emmanuel. He is God with us, and we can worship Him for who he really is. Come to church with me this weekend, and see for yourself what God has done. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart, so that you can sing the song of Simeon as we gather to worship our Savior.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the power of the Holy Spirit to open your eyes and reveal in your heart what you know to be true – Jesus Christ is the Holy Son of the Living God! He came to give us life, today and for every tomorrow. Let us sing the song of Simeon together as we worship our Savior and Lord.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Singing in my sleep
Isaiah 12:1-3 (NIV)
1 In that day you will say: “I will praise you, O Lord. Although you were angry with me, your anger has turned away and you have comforted me.
2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation.
3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.”
Good morning!
Isn’t this a great day to be alive! I woke up this morning singing. Do you ever wake up singing praise to God? Sometimes the words and melodies to my favorite praise songs will run through my mind and I just can’t help singing them, even in my sleep. I know I’m weird. You can pray for me!
This morning’s music is courtesy of author/composer Thomas O. Chisholm. He penned the words to one of my favorite hymns, Great Is Thy Faithfulness. William M. Runyan crafted the melody for these beautiful words, and the hymn was first published in the Songs of Salvation and Service, a collection of Runyan’s favorite praise songs. Ironically, the words that kept running through my mind while I slept were a phrase in the third verse of this hymn, “Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.” It is no coincidence that I would hear these words, especially on a day like today.
Strength is something I wish I had a little more of, especially upper body strength. After I had neck surgery, I was cautioned by my physician not to do a lot of heavy lifting and pulling. I used to be a whole lot stronger; unfortunately what little upper body muscle I once had is now mush. There was a time when I could move heavy furniture with ease. I could rearrange the living room all by myself. Not now – it is a stretch to move the sofas so I can vacuum.
I think it is natural for human beings to rely on their own strength for so many of the day-to-day things we do. It takes discipline and determination to get up every day and function. Our work ethic and desire to excel in everything we do develop from an inner strength and sense of self-worth that prompts us to always do our best and never give up. Sometimes it is not enough to be strong-willed. In my life, there have been moments of sheer success, followed by a resounding failure. Did I intend to bomb out? Was my inner strength and determination any different from the day before? No. For me, I inch forward only to take a couple of steps back. I’ve learned that relying on my own strength to accomplish the job I have to do will never be enough. I need to tap into the well of salvation, God’s unlimited power source of strength, comfort and joy.
Today, I find myself facing a little piece of the unknown. I don’t know that I have the strength I need to do what needs to be done. I do know where my strength will come from – it will come from Christ in me. His love and salvation will sustain me all day long. I may not feel very strong today, and yet, I can rely on His amazing strength to see me through. He is my song, my life and my light. His faithfulness to me is great, and the strength he gives today fills me with hope for each and every tomorrow. I will trust Him and I will not be afraid.
If you find yourself needing a little extra strength to do what God has called you to, ask Him to give you His strength today. You may find yourself singing in your sleep!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: an extra measure of God’s strength, as you sing His praises and revel in your salvation. Christ died for you! Isn’t this a great day to be alive in Him!
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Isaiah 12:1-3 (NIV)
1 In that day you will say: “I will praise you, O Lord. Although you were angry with me, your anger has turned away and you have comforted me.
2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation.
3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.”
Good morning!
Isn’t this a great day to be alive! I woke up this morning singing. Do you ever wake up singing praise to God? Sometimes the words and melodies to my favorite praise songs will run through my mind and I just can’t help singing them, even in my sleep. I know I’m weird. You can pray for me!
This morning’s music is courtesy of author/composer Thomas O. Chisholm. He penned the words to one of my favorite hymns, Great Is Thy Faithfulness. William M. Runyan crafted the melody for these beautiful words, and the hymn was first published in the Songs of Salvation and Service, a collection of Runyan’s favorite praise songs. Ironically, the words that kept running through my mind while I slept were a phrase in the third verse of this hymn, “Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.” It is no coincidence that I would hear these words, especially on a day like today.
Strength is something I wish I had a little more of, especially upper body strength. After I had neck surgery, I was cautioned by my physician not to do a lot of heavy lifting and pulling. I used to be a whole lot stronger; unfortunately what little upper body muscle I once had is now mush. There was a time when I could move heavy furniture with ease. I could rearrange the living room all by myself. Not now – it is a stretch to move the sofas so I can vacuum.
I think it is natural for human beings to rely on their own strength for so many of the day-to-day things we do. It takes discipline and determination to get up every day and function. Our work ethic and desire to excel in everything we do develop from an inner strength and sense of self-worth that prompts us to always do our best and never give up. Sometimes it is not enough to be strong-willed. In my life, there have been moments of sheer success, followed by a resounding failure. Did I intend to bomb out? Was my inner strength and determination any different from the day before? No. For me, I inch forward only to take a couple of steps back. I’ve learned that relying on my own strength to accomplish the job I have to do will never be enough. I need to tap into the well of salvation, God’s unlimited power source of strength, comfort and joy.
Today, I find myself facing a little piece of the unknown. I don’t know that I have the strength I need to do what needs to be done. I do know where my strength will come from – it will come from Christ in me. His love and salvation will sustain me all day long. I may not feel very strong today, and yet, I can rely on His amazing strength to see me through. He is my song, my life and my light. His faithfulness to me is great, and the strength he gives today fills me with hope for each and every tomorrow. I will trust Him and I will not be afraid.
If you find yourself needing a little extra strength to do what God has called you to, ask Him to give you His strength today. You may find yourself singing in your sleep!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: an extra measure of God’s strength, as you sing His praises and revel in your salvation. Christ died for you! Isn’t this a great day to be alive in Him!
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Locked out!
Luke 10:36-37 (NIV)
36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus said, “Go and do likewise.”
Good morning!
Have you ever locked your keys in the car? It has happened twice to me in the last six months. I wish I could blame it on circumstance, or at least pass the buck to somebody else, but the truth is, I managed to do this all by myself.
It happened again last night. I stopped at the market on my way home from work to pick up a few things for dinner. My arms were full, clutching the wallet with my right hand, and two grocery bags and the car keys in my left hand. I popped the trunk to my car, dropped the bags inside, and shut the lid quickly. I heard the keys clank inside the grocery bag just as the trunk lid locked. I remembered muttering something I should have never said, especially out loud, and I really hope no one else heard me besides God. He hears everything, you know.
Fortunately, I had some quarters in my wallet and I went inside the store to call my husband for help. I wondered how he might react since I was calling him during his favorite television show, but that man is one great guy; he didn’t even get upset with me! Jeff made a quick call to our friend Terry, who has a heart of gold and is always willing to help. He is a local car dealer, and we purchased our automobiles from him. Terry dropped what he was doing at work, met us at the parking lot, with trusty tools in hand. It took a few minutes, but he managed to pick the lock on my car door, pop the trunk lid and rescue my keys. Jeff and Terry really helped me out of a jam last night. Thank you!
Sometimes, we find ourselves standing in the need of a little mercy and grace. Jesus once told a story about a man, traveling alone on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho. Along the way, he was robbed, beaten and left for dead. A priest and a Levite passed the injured man by, and didn’t even stop to help. In fact, they crossed over to the other side of the road to avoid the situation entirely. Then, a Samaritan man came along and when he saw the injured man, his heart was stirred with compassion. He went and bandaged his wounds, helping the man onto his donkey, and took him to a nearby inn. He paid the innkeeper for a room and asked him to look after the man. The next day, the Samaritan returned to the inn to check on the invalid, and pay the innkeeper any additional expense. Jesus asked the experts of the law which of the three men was a true neighbor to the one who needed help, and they replied, “The one who had mercy.”
A little mercy and grace can go a long, long way when we make time to reach out to someone else. There are moments when we may find ourselves locked outside the door of God’s love and forgiveness. We’ve messed up, and know we don’t deserve a second chance. The greatest miracle occurs when someone cares enough to cross the line and rescue a neighbor in need. This is exactly what Jesus Christ did for you and me. And he tells us to “go and do likewise.” We all make mistakes. Will you make time today to help someone else unlock the door to faith? Will you share the keys to the Kingdom with someone who may be locked out, and is crying out for help?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: mercy and grace, to help those who feel locked outside of God’s loving care and forgiveness. He can use your life to help you unlock the door for someone else. Will you share the love of Jesus today?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Luke 10:36-37 (NIV)
36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus said, “Go and do likewise.”
Good morning!
Have you ever locked your keys in the car? It has happened twice to me in the last six months. I wish I could blame it on circumstance, or at least pass the buck to somebody else, but the truth is, I managed to do this all by myself.
It happened again last night. I stopped at the market on my way home from work to pick up a few things for dinner. My arms were full, clutching the wallet with my right hand, and two grocery bags and the car keys in my left hand. I popped the trunk to my car, dropped the bags inside, and shut the lid quickly. I heard the keys clank inside the grocery bag just as the trunk lid locked. I remembered muttering something I should have never said, especially out loud, and I really hope no one else heard me besides God. He hears everything, you know.
Fortunately, I had some quarters in my wallet and I went inside the store to call my husband for help. I wondered how he might react since I was calling him during his favorite television show, but that man is one great guy; he didn’t even get upset with me! Jeff made a quick call to our friend Terry, who has a heart of gold and is always willing to help. He is a local car dealer, and we purchased our automobiles from him. Terry dropped what he was doing at work, met us at the parking lot, with trusty tools in hand. It took a few minutes, but he managed to pick the lock on my car door, pop the trunk lid and rescue my keys. Jeff and Terry really helped me out of a jam last night. Thank you!
Sometimes, we find ourselves standing in the need of a little mercy and grace. Jesus once told a story about a man, traveling alone on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho. Along the way, he was robbed, beaten and left for dead. A priest and a Levite passed the injured man by, and didn’t even stop to help. In fact, they crossed over to the other side of the road to avoid the situation entirely. Then, a Samaritan man came along and when he saw the injured man, his heart was stirred with compassion. He went and bandaged his wounds, helping the man onto his donkey, and took him to a nearby inn. He paid the innkeeper for a room and asked him to look after the man. The next day, the Samaritan returned to the inn to check on the invalid, and pay the innkeeper any additional expense. Jesus asked the experts of the law which of the three men was a true neighbor to the one who needed help, and they replied, “The one who had mercy.”
A little mercy and grace can go a long, long way when we make time to reach out to someone else. There are moments when we may find ourselves locked outside the door of God’s love and forgiveness. We’ve messed up, and know we don’t deserve a second chance. The greatest miracle occurs when someone cares enough to cross the line and rescue a neighbor in need. This is exactly what Jesus Christ did for you and me. And he tells us to “go and do likewise.” We all make mistakes. Will you make time today to help someone else unlock the door to faith? Will you share the keys to the Kingdom with someone who may be locked out, and is crying out for help?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: mercy and grace, to help those who feel locked outside of God’s loving care and forgiveness. He can use your life to help you unlock the door for someone else. Will you share the love of Jesus today?
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Gray hair days
Isaiah 46:4 (NIV)
4 Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
Psalm 71:17-18 (NIV)
17 Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. 18 Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.
Proverbs 16:31 (NIV)
31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life.
Good morning!
I give up. It’s going to be a gray hair day today. As I was dressing for work, I took a look in the mirror and groaned. Mirrors have a way of doing that. Our reflection is not always what we would like it to be. I remember the day I pulled my first gray hair out at twenty-two years of age. I was mortified! I had just delivered our second child, a son, and I should have known he would was going to be a handful then! Now, twenty-five years later, I have more gray hair than I can pull. In fact, I can’t even keep it covered with a little color; the only thing I know to do is add a few highlights and hope for the best.
Some folks have gorgeous gray hair. My grandmother turned completely white headed as a teenager. She had the face of an angel, framed with a beautiful head of silvery white hair, like a halo, shadowing her face. If my gray hair could look like my grandmother’s, I don’t think I’d be complaining. My gray hair is unruly. Some of it likes to stick straight up in the mornings. Fortunately, I have a wonderful hairdresser who knows how to tame the gray hair days of my life. She studied long and hard at cosmetology school to help people just like me.
King David, King Solomon and the prophet Isaiah must have known something about gray hair days. Isn’t it comforting to know that our heavenly Father, who loves us in our youthful exuberance, sustains us as we age? Our God carries us through the years, crowning us with wisdom and splendor. Sometimes the mirror can be deceiving. While it may reflect our outward physical appearance, it cannot begin to capture the utter joy that comes from experiencing abundant life. True beauty has very little to do with how we look; it has everything to do with knowing the One who makes all things beautiful in His time.
Is your spirit as shiny as the gray hairs on top of your head? When people see you today, will they only notice the gray on your head, or the song in your heart? There are days just like today, when I must remind myself that my gray hair is a gift from God. It reminds me of the work He continues to do in my life, as I grow in wisdom and grace. Even when I’m old and gray, God has a purpose for me to fulfill. When you find yourself facing a gray hair day, remember to look beyond the reflection of the mirror. Can you see the amazing miracle God is creating in you?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to give you the grace to share the joy in your heart, no matter what your age. You can be His witness to the world, even on a gray hair day!
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Isaiah 46:4 (NIV)
4 Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
Psalm 71:17-18 (NIV)
17 Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. 18 Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.
Proverbs 16:31 (NIV)
31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life.
Good morning!
I give up. It’s going to be a gray hair day today. As I was dressing for work, I took a look in the mirror and groaned. Mirrors have a way of doing that. Our reflection is not always what we would like it to be. I remember the day I pulled my first gray hair out at twenty-two years of age. I was mortified! I had just delivered our second child, a son, and I should have known he would was going to be a handful then! Now, twenty-five years later, I have more gray hair than I can pull. In fact, I can’t even keep it covered with a little color; the only thing I know to do is add a few highlights and hope for the best.
Some folks have gorgeous gray hair. My grandmother turned completely white headed as a teenager. She had the face of an angel, framed with a beautiful head of silvery white hair, like a halo, shadowing her face. If my gray hair could look like my grandmother’s, I don’t think I’d be complaining. My gray hair is unruly. Some of it likes to stick straight up in the mornings. Fortunately, I have a wonderful hairdresser who knows how to tame the gray hair days of my life. She studied long and hard at cosmetology school to help people just like me.
King David, King Solomon and the prophet Isaiah must have known something about gray hair days. Isn’t it comforting to know that our heavenly Father, who loves us in our youthful exuberance, sustains us as we age? Our God carries us through the years, crowning us with wisdom and splendor. Sometimes the mirror can be deceiving. While it may reflect our outward physical appearance, it cannot begin to capture the utter joy that comes from experiencing abundant life. True beauty has very little to do with how we look; it has everything to do with knowing the One who makes all things beautiful in His time.
Is your spirit as shiny as the gray hairs on top of your head? When people see you today, will they only notice the gray on your head, or the song in your heart? There are days just like today, when I must remind myself that my gray hair is a gift from God. It reminds me of the work He continues to do in my life, as I grow in wisdom and grace. Even when I’m old and gray, God has a purpose for me to fulfill. When you find yourself facing a gray hair day, remember to look beyond the reflection of the mirror. Can you see the amazing miracle God is creating in you?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: God to give you the grace to share the joy in your heart, no matter what your age. You can be His witness to the world, even on a gray hair day!
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Upper room moments
Luke 22:10-12 (NIV)
10 He replied, “As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, 11 and say to the owner of the house, “The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?” 12 He will show you a large upper room, all furnished. Make preparations there.”
Good morning!
This is final week at Lindenwood University, where I attend school. For the last three months, twelve of us have gathered on the third floor in a corner room of Romer Hall to discuss matters of faith. It is a struggle climbing those stairs each week. By the time I get to the top floor, I’m out of breath. Obviously, I need more exercise and less time in front of the computer. Of all the classes I’ve taken, this class in particular reminds me of what the Upper Room must have been like.
Our instructor is a United Methodist pastor serving a local church in O’Fallon, Missouri. He has a heart for lost people and a desire to reach them for Jesus Christ. Through his teaching ministry, he has guided our class in the area of personal evangelism and witnessing our faith to others. We have spent hours studying the Word and seeking greater understanding of the work God has for each of us to do. We gather together in the large upper room to prepare.
Our upper room is drafty, and it’s a stretch to get there each week. The Holy Spirit is ever present in our Upper Room. Every person there has been touched in an amazing way by the Lord. They come each week to explore how God can use their life to reach others for Christ. Some of the people in this room will become pastors; others will be teachers. Some will continue to work outside the walls of the church, sharing their faith with the people they meet each day. Gathering together in the Upper Room to study, pray and share our hearts has been time well spent and a precious moment that will not be forgotten.
When Jesus gathered His disciples together in the Upper Room to celebrate what would be His last Passover on earth, they did not realize how their lives would be forever changed. This would be the last time they would gather with Jesus Christ, Son of God, in human flesh. He would be taken from them, tortured and crucified on a wooden cross, and He would die. His death would bring confusion, grief and loss to each heart gathered in the Upper Room that night. His resurrection would reunite them as one body and ignite a ministry that would transcend all time. Alpha and Omega, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the indescribable love of our Heavenly Father would be born from the suffering and death of our sacrificial lamb. Jesus sought a place, a guest room, where He could spend one more night with His people. He was counting on them to carry the Word into the world. He knew they would be faithful in the end. And He loved them more than life itself.
Upper Room moments can occur in the walls of our sanctuaries and Sunday school classrooms, at home in our prayer closets, and even at school. Whenever we take time to sit at the Master’s feet, study His Word and pray, we can experience the Upper Room in our life.
As we prepare for the coming of the Christ child this Advent season, may we find ourselves experiencing Upper Room moments, reveling in the joy of our salvation. It would be easier to stay in that room and never leave. God calls each of us to come out of the Upper Room and share what we know to be true with others.
Will you join me in spreading the news? Jesus Christ, the only Son of our Heavenly Father, came to earth in human flesh. He took our sin upon Himself and gave up His life so that we could live in relationship with the Father. He died, and rose again, and reigns forevermore. He will save you, when you call on His name, confess Jesus is Lord of all, and seek forgiveness for your sin.
Come to the Upper Room with me today. Jesus Christ is waiting there, just to be with you.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: your salvation. If you ask Him to, Jesus will come into your heart today. He will change your life, and you will spend an eternity worshipping Him in the Upper Room.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Luke 22:10-12 (NIV)
10 He replied, “As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, 11 and say to the owner of the house, “The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?” 12 He will show you a large upper room, all furnished. Make preparations there.”
Good morning!
This is final week at Lindenwood University, where I attend school. For the last three months, twelve of us have gathered on the third floor in a corner room of Romer Hall to discuss matters of faith. It is a struggle climbing those stairs each week. By the time I get to the top floor, I’m out of breath. Obviously, I need more exercise and less time in front of the computer. Of all the classes I’ve taken, this class in particular reminds me of what the Upper Room must have been like.
Our instructor is a United Methodist pastor serving a local church in O’Fallon, Missouri. He has a heart for lost people and a desire to reach them for Jesus Christ. Through his teaching ministry, he has guided our class in the area of personal evangelism and witnessing our faith to others. We have spent hours studying the Word and seeking greater understanding of the work God has for each of us to do. We gather together in the large upper room to prepare.
Our upper room is drafty, and it’s a stretch to get there each week. The Holy Spirit is ever present in our Upper Room. Every person there has been touched in an amazing way by the Lord. They come each week to explore how God can use their life to reach others for Christ. Some of the people in this room will become pastors; others will be teachers. Some will continue to work outside the walls of the church, sharing their faith with the people they meet each day. Gathering together in the Upper Room to study, pray and share our hearts has been time well spent and a precious moment that will not be forgotten.
When Jesus gathered His disciples together in the Upper Room to celebrate what would be His last Passover on earth, they did not realize how their lives would be forever changed. This would be the last time they would gather with Jesus Christ, Son of God, in human flesh. He would be taken from them, tortured and crucified on a wooden cross, and He would die. His death would bring confusion, grief and loss to each heart gathered in the Upper Room that night. His resurrection would reunite them as one body and ignite a ministry that would transcend all time. Alpha and Omega, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the indescribable love of our Heavenly Father would be born from the suffering and death of our sacrificial lamb. Jesus sought a place, a guest room, where He could spend one more night with His people. He was counting on them to carry the Word into the world. He knew they would be faithful in the end. And He loved them more than life itself.
Upper Room moments can occur in the walls of our sanctuaries and Sunday school classrooms, at home in our prayer closets, and even at school. Whenever we take time to sit at the Master’s feet, study His Word and pray, we can experience the Upper Room in our life.
As we prepare for the coming of the Christ child this Advent season, may we find ourselves experiencing Upper Room moments, reveling in the joy of our salvation. It would be easier to stay in that room and never leave. God calls each of us to come out of the Upper Room and share what we know to be true with others.
Will you join me in spreading the news? Jesus Christ, the only Son of our Heavenly Father, came to earth in human flesh. He took our sin upon Himself and gave up His life so that we could live in relationship with the Father. He died, and rose again, and reigns forevermore. He will save you, when you call on His name, confess Jesus is Lord of all, and seek forgiveness for your sin.
Come to the Upper Room with me today. Jesus Christ is waiting there, just to be with you.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: your salvation. If you ask Him to, Jesus will come into your heart today. He will change your life, and you will spend an eternity worshipping Him in the Upper Room.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Roller Coaster Ride
Isaiah 40:3-5 (NIV)
3 A voice of one calling: “In the desert prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God.
4 Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain.
5 And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”
Good morning!
Do you like to ride the roller coaster when you visit a theme park? Two of my three children absolutely love the roller coaster rides. They tell me there is something extraordinary in experiencing the thrill of going up high, and coming down fast, and being tossed about and jerked from side to side. It only took a couple of roller coaster rides for me to realize this was definitely NOT my thing. Roller coasters make me queasy. I have enough excitement in my life without adding a roller coaster ride to the mix, thank you very much.
The last roller coaster I rode was at Six Flags over Texas. Jeff and I had just moved to Dallas and we went to Six Flags with his sister and brother-in-law when they came for a visit. This roller coaster had become very popular because it introduced two complete loops. At a high rate of speed, the avid roller coaster rider could hang upside down while experiencing the back-to-back loops. The wind whipped Jeff’s glasses right off his face and I crushed them with my feet accidentally. I wondered whether I had made a conscious decision that day to meet my maker because this ride seemed to last for an eternity. When the roller coaster finally came to a halt, we literally crawled off the ride, and all four of us found nearby park benches to lie down on. We didn’t move. I tried really hard not to breathe. This was definitely something I could live without ever experiencing again.
Sometimes our lives can be like a roller coaster ride. We travel in high speed, as we try to maneuver the many obligations that come with being part of a family, working outside the home, going to school, and serving others through charitable and civic opportunities. Our lives can be twisted and turned literally upside down when we experience a rough patch of life. Someone we love becomes ill, or passes away suddenly, and we are not prepared for how that may affect our daily living. We change jobs, relocate our families, and struggle to re-establish a rhythm and routine. We try to milk an extra hour or two into our twenty-four hour days, and sometimes, we get lost on the tracks. It is all we can do to hold on for dear life and hope the ride comes to a stop. Do you ever feel like you are living large on the roller coaster of life?
The busyness of life can distract us from the one who brings meaning to everything we do. Our God can take the roughest road and make it straight. The prophet Isaiah said that every valley will be raised up and every mountain and hill will be leveled, and the rough and rugged places along the way will become smooth and plain. When the road of life is twisting all around, turning you upside down and from side to side, God can make your path straight again. He has the power to comfort, pointing you in the right direction, and granting you peace along the way. The obstacles that keep you separated from Him are gently removed with His loving hand. He can make all things new again, if you will let Him.
Do you want to get off the roller coaster ride you’ve been on? Invite God into your heart today. If you ask Him to, He will take the rough and rugged road of your life and make it straight, and you will see the glory of the Lord like you have never seen Him before. He will be your light and your life. You’ll be surprised how the rhythm of life will become in sync when you purpose to put the Lord first in all you say and do.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the Lord to take your life and straighten it out, once and for all. He can conquer your roller coaster ride if you ask Him to. You can let go now.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Isaiah 40:3-5 (NIV)
3 A voice of one calling: “In the desert prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God.
4 Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain.
5 And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”
Good morning!
Do you like to ride the roller coaster when you visit a theme park? Two of my three children absolutely love the roller coaster rides. They tell me there is something extraordinary in experiencing the thrill of going up high, and coming down fast, and being tossed about and jerked from side to side. It only took a couple of roller coaster rides for me to realize this was definitely NOT my thing. Roller coasters make me queasy. I have enough excitement in my life without adding a roller coaster ride to the mix, thank you very much.
The last roller coaster I rode was at Six Flags over Texas. Jeff and I had just moved to Dallas and we went to Six Flags with his sister and brother-in-law when they came for a visit. This roller coaster had become very popular because it introduced two complete loops. At a high rate of speed, the avid roller coaster rider could hang upside down while experiencing the back-to-back loops. The wind whipped Jeff’s glasses right off his face and I crushed them with my feet accidentally. I wondered whether I had made a conscious decision that day to meet my maker because this ride seemed to last for an eternity. When the roller coaster finally came to a halt, we literally crawled off the ride, and all four of us found nearby park benches to lie down on. We didn’t move. I tried really hard not to breathe. This was definitely something I could live without ever experiencing again.
Sometimes our lives can be like a roller coaster ride. We travel in high speed, as we try to maneuver the many obligations that come with being part of a family, working outside the home, going to school, and serving others through charitable and civic opportunities. Our lives can be twisted and turned literally upside down when we experience a rough patch of life. Someone we love becomes ill, or passes away suddenly, and we are not prepared for how that may affect our daily living. We change jobs, relocate our families, and struggle to re-establish a rhythm and routine. We try to milk an extra hour or two into our twenty-four hour days, and sometimes, we get lost on the tracks. It is all we can do to hold on for dear life and hope the ride comes to a stop. Do you ever feel like you are living large on the roller coaster of life?
The busyness of life can distract us from the one who brings meaning to everything we do. Our God can take the roughest road and make it straight. The prophet Isaiah said that every valley will be raised up and every mountain and hill will be leveled, and the rough and rugged places along the way will become smooth and plain. When the road of life is twisting all around, turning you upside down and from side to side, God can make your path straight again. He has the power to comfort, pointing you in the right direction, and granting you peace along the way. The obstacles that keep you separated from Him are gently removed with His loving hand. He can make all things new again, if you will let Him.
Do you want to get off the roller coaster ride you’ve been on? Invite God into your heart today. If you ask Him to, He will take the rough and rugged road of your life and make it straight, and you will see the glory of the Lord like you have never seen Him before. He will be your light and your life. You’ll be surprised how the rhythm of life will become in sync when you purpose to put the Lord first in all you say and do.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the Lord to take your life and straighten it out, once and for all. He can conquer your roller coaster ride if you ask Him to. You can let go now.
____________________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
The secret of being content
Philippians 4:11-13 (NIV)
11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
13 I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
Good morning!
From the moment my first two babies came into the world, they were determined not to be content. Rachel wanted to be held every minute of the day and night. You put that child down even for a minute, and she had a set of lungs that could raise the roof of the parsonage. Our Benjie was a growing boy, and if he didn’t have something to chew on, it was hard consoling him. You would have thought we never fed that child. He still loves to eat. Thank goodness his wife loves to cook!
Then, along came our David. This child was the most contented baby I’ve ever seen. I never knew when he would awake from a nap. He would be upstairs in his crib and I would have the baby monitor on downstairs, so I could hear him when he would start to stir. I would get concerned because his nap had lasted much longer than I would have expected. So I’d sneak into his room to find him lying there, legs up in the air, looking at his mobile and smiling. The only time he cried was if he was in pain. David was perfectly content to lie on a blanket and observe everything around him. He seemed totally happy just to be.
Why do we struggle to be content in every circumstance? My parents grew up during the depression. It was a time when most Americans barely had enough food to eat. They had very few clothes to wear. My mother grew up in a family of seven siblings. She said it was not uncommon for them to wear the same thing every day. In the evening when they would put on their night clothes, their daily clothing would be washed and hung up to dry by the fireplace. The next morning, they wore the same thing over again. Mom talked about how the lack of material possessions never seemed to affect their family’s happiness. She grew up in a loving, Christian home. Sharing life together filled her family with true contentment. Mom said the Lord always provided enough food for the table, and they made do with what little they had.
The Apostle Paul shared an amazing little secret in his letter to the church at Philippi. Paul wrote that he had learned how to be content in any and every situation, regardless of whether he had plenty, or had nothing. Where did he find this peace? Paul knew the source of all happiness. He was in relationship with the one who gave his life true meaning and purpose. Paul knew the Lord Jesus Christ, the risen son of God. Jesus took his life and filled it with grace, forgiveness and overwhelming love. Paul found the source of true happiness and peace in His Savior’s care. He was content to be, no matter what the circumstance, walking daily with his Lord.
Just like Paul, we can experience the joy of true contentment today, as we spend time in relationship Jesus Christ. His love is all we need to do whatever He calls us to do. Jesus gives us the grace and strength to be the people He has called us to be, as we share His love with the world. If you find yourself feeling a little discontented today, hoping to discover true meaning and purpose for your life, why don’t you join me at Faith church this morning? I would like to introduce you to the one who gives me abundant life. Come worship Jesus Christ with me. I’ll save you a seat!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus Christ to fill your heart with the contentment and peace that only He can give. He is the Prince of Peace, and He will change your heart and give you a new direction, meaning and purpose for living, if you ask Him to. Have you found the source of true contentment? Do you know my Lord?
________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
Philippians 4:11-13 (NIV)
11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
13 I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
Good morning!
From the moment my first two babies came into the world, they were determined not to be content. Rachel wanted to be held every minute of the day and night. You put that child down even for a minute, and she had a set of lungs that could raise the roof of the parsonage. Our Benjie was a growing boy, and if he didn’t have something to chew on, it was hard consoling him. You would have thought we never fed that child. He still loves to eat. Thank goodness his wife loves to cook!
Then, along came our David. This child was the most contented baby I’ve ever seen. I never knew when he would awake from a nap. He would be upstairs in his crib and I would have the baby monitor on downstairs, so I could hear him when he would start to stir. I would get concerned because his nap had lasted much longer than I would have expected. So I’d sneak into his room to find him lying there, legs up in the air, looking at his mobile and smiling. The only time he cried was if he was in pain. David was perfectly content to lie on a blanket and observe everything around him. He seemed totally happy just to be.
Why do we struggle to be content in every circumstance? My parents grew up during the depression. It was a time when most Americans barely had enough food to eat. They had very few clothes to wear. My mother grew up in a family of seven siblings. She said it was not uncommon for them to wear the same thing every day. In the evening when they would put on their night clothes, their daily clothing would be washed and hung up to dry by the fireplace. The next morning, they wore the same thing over again. Mom talked about how the lack of material possessions never seemed to affect their family’s happiness. She grew up in a loving, Christian home. Sharing life together filled her family with true contentment. Mom said the Lord always provided enough food for the table, and they made do with what little they had.
The Apostle Paul shared an amazing little secret in his letter to the church at Philippi. Paul wrote that he had learned how to be content in any and every situation, regardless of whether he had plenty, or had nothing. Where did he find this peace? Paul knew the source of all happiness. He was in relationship with the one who gave his life true meaning and purpose. Paul knew the Lord Jesus Christ, the risen son of God. Jesus took his life and filled it with grace, forgiveness and overwhelming love. Paul found the source of true happiness and peace in His Savior’s care. He was content to be, no matter what the circumstance, walking daily with his Lord.
Just like Paul, we can experience the joy of true contentment today, as we spend time in relationship Jesus Christ. His love is all we need to do whatever He calls us to do. Jesus gives us the grace and strength to be the people He has called us to be, as we share His love with the world. If you find yourself feeling a little discontented today, hoping to discover true meaning and purpose for your life, why don’t you join me at Faith church this morning? I would like to introduce you to the one who gives me abundant life. Come worship Jesus Christ with me. I’ll save you a seat!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: Jesus Christ to fill your heart with the contentment and peace that only He can give. He is the Prince of Peace, and He will change your heart and give you a new direction, meaning and purpose for living, if you ask Him to. Have you found the source of true contentment? Do you know my Lord?
________________
© Copyright 2006, Deb Spaulding
All rights reserved
Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.
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