Sanctuary
Psalm 63:2-4 (NIV)
2 I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.
3 Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.
4 I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands.
Romans 15:13 (NIV)
13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Good morning!
I could feel an incredible sense of peace as I walked along the cobblestone garden path toward Serra Chapel in San Juan Capastrano. In October of 1776, Father Junipero Serra established this mission on this beautiful California coast line. Father Serra felt a call from the Lord to share Jesus Christ with the Indians and villagers who lived here. He needed help to launch his vision. Father Serra enlisted the services of two additional padres and an escort of soldiers to help him build the church. With lots of hard work and prayer, the mission grew rapidly. A sanctuary was erected in 1777. It is still in use today. Known as the oldest church in California, the Serra Chapel still stands for the honor and glory of Jesus Christ and in tribute to the vision and faithfulness of Father Junipero Serra.
The facilities are under constant renovation. Scaffolding lines the altar area of the orginal sanctuary. Craftsman and painters work outside to restore the stone pillars to its original beauty. As I knelt in the back of the sanctuary, I could hear the canticles of praise rising up through the voices of the chapel priests. Many people come to pray here. The flickering candles provide light down the narrow aisle toward the altar. The hard-wood pews were very uncomfortable to sit in. This sanctuary was definitely a place to worship the Lord on bended knee.
The garden area was simply breathtaking. The tropical foliage danced and embraced the warm spring sunlight. Jesus Christ lives and reigns in this sacred place. I could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit hovering above me. Many people come to the Lord here. When I closed my eyes, I could sense the powerful prayers of the faithful that had been borne through worship of the King of Kings.
Have you ever experienced a place embraced with such an overwhelming peace that you never wanted to leave? I could have easily stayed in that sanctuary for the remainder of our trip. Surrounded by the beauty of the ocean, San Juan Capastrano brings a little bit of heaven to earth, and I was one of the fortunate ones to experience His peace as I worshipped in the sanctuary.
We are forever surrounded by a living sanctuary. Sometimes we get so busy doing, we forget that we are walking on holy ground. Can you see Jesus where you are at this morning? Is He walking next to you, standing right in front of you, or whispering in your ear from behind? Will you see Him as you scrub your bathroom floor, while pulling weeds from your garden bed, or when you sit on the bleachers at your child’s softball game? Where do experience the living Christ? Jesus is inviting you to meet Him today right where you are. If you are looking for a place of peace to pray and praise, come join me in the sanctuary to worship Jesus Christ. Experience the peace that passes all understanding. When Jesus takes hold of your heart you will find abundant life today, and every day thereafter; and life everlasting in His kingdom to come.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: willingness to hand the Lord of life your heart today. Come into the sanctuary and experience the peace that only Jesus can give. I’ll see you there!
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 18, 2007
Pineapple Palm Trees
Matthew 21:7-9 (NIV)
7 [The disciples] brought the donkey and the colt, placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them. 8 A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the son of David!” Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
Good morning!
Jeff and I took a little sightseeing excursion into the hills surrounding Miramar Marine base in Northern San Diego last night. Many of the southwestern style homes are situated at the edge of the mountain peaks. I was truly fascinated by the architecture and placement of these single-family dwelling homes. We drove to the top of one of the mountains and took pictures of homes that clung to the edge of the cliffs. The view from above is simply spectacular. Many of these homes are built with adobe bricks, stucco finish, and red brick roofs. Tropical plants and lush flowers line their sidewalks and window planters. Can you imagine what a sight it must be to wake up early in the morning and watch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean from on top of a cliff?
We explored several “hidden” lakes nesting within public parks along the roadway. There are biking and hiking trails everywhere. We waved to young mothers pushing their babies around in strollers, joggers and bikers catching their breath and enjoying the view, and lots of walkers. Families tend to walk together in southern California. It is truly an impressive place to live.
I’ve never seen such a variety of palm trees. I think my favorite tree is the pineapple palm. There are numerous varieties of this beautiful plant. Their trunks are shaped like large pineapples, and from the top emerges the beautiful, detailed palm branches. Many of the branches are greenish-blue in color. They seem happily installed in its subdivision. I think I could enjoy sitting under that palm every day and admiring the beautiful branches shading the ground below. While some of the palm trees are very tall, pineapple palms seem rather dwarfed – short and stocky, just like me! I wonder if I could grow this tree in my subdivision in Missouri – probably not.
Palm trees are breathtakingly beautiful. Its branches move gently in the breeze, waving its praise to the master artist. Only God could make something so beautiful. As Jesus traveled into Jerusalem on the back of a borrowed donkey, the people gathered to praise the Son of David. Children waved beautiful palm branches in the air while their parents lay their cloaks on the ground in honor of the arrival of the King. How God must have been glorified in those brief, fleeting moments, surrounded by the faces of the children He came to save.
Palm Sunday will never be the same for me again. I am resting today in the shade of the Pineapple Palm trees. I can feel the chilly ocean breeze blow across my face, and it reminds me that Jesus is here, in this place. He walks with the walkers in the park. He rides with the cyclists on the bike path. He fishes with the children at the pier. He is ever present, ever near.
Come and join me for a siesta underneath the Pineapple Palm. You may find the risen Christ sitting next to you, enjoying the view with you from above.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the Lord to open your eyes to the beauty of nature as it surrounds you today. He has created a marvelous place where we can live in His awesome presence. Can you feel Jesus near you today in the place where you live?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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. You may have received a forwarded copy.
Matthew 21:7-9 (NIV)
7 [The disciples] brought the donkey and the colt, placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them. 8 A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the son of David!” Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!”
Good morning!
Jeff and I took a little sightseeing excursion into the hills surrounding Miramar Marine base in Northern San Diego last night. Many of the southwestern style homes are situated at the edge of the mountain peaks. I was truly fascinated by the architecture and placement of these single-family dwelling homes. We drove to the top of one of the mountains and took pictures of homes that clung to the edge of the cliffs. The view from above is simply spectacular. Many of these homes are built with adobe bricks, stucco finish, and red brick roofs. Tropical plants and lush flowers line their sidewalks and window planters. Can you imagine what a sight it must be to wake up early in the morning and watch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean from on top of a cliff?
We explored several “hidden” lakes nesting within public parks along the roadway. There are biking and hiking trails everywhere. We waved to young mothers pushing their babies around in strollers, joggers and bikers catching their breath and enjoying the view, and lots of walkers. Families tend to walk together in southern California. It is truly an impressive place to live.
I’ve never seen such a variety of palm trees. I think my favorite tree is the pineapple palm. There are numerous varieties of this beautiful plant. Their trunks are shaped like large pineapples, and from the top emerges the beautiful, detailed palm branches. Many of the branches are greenish-blue in color. They seem happily installed in its subdivision. I think I could enjoy sitting under that palm every day and admiring the beautiful branches shading the ground below. While some of the palm trees are very tall, pineapple palms seem rather dwarfed – short and stocky, just like me! I wonder if I could grow this tree in my subdivision in Missouri – probably not.
Palm trees are breathtakingly beautiful. Its branches move gently in the breeze, waving its praise to the master artist. Only God could make something so beautiful. As Jesus traveled into Jerusalem on the back of a borrowed donkey, the people gathered to praise the Son of David. Children waved beautiful palm branches in the air while their parents lay their cloaks on the ground in honor of the arrival of the King. How God must have been glorified in those brief, fleeting moments, surrounded by the faces of the children He came to save.
Palm Sunday will never be the same for me again. I am resting today in the shade of the Pineapple Palm trees. I can feel the chilly ocean breeze blow across my face, and it reminds me that Jesus is here, in this place. He walks with the walkers in the park. He rides with the cyclists on the bike path. He fishes with the children at the pier. He is ever present, ever near.
Come and join me for a siesta underneath the Pineapple Palm. You may find the risen Christ sitting next to you, enjoying the view with you from above.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the Lord to open your eyes to the beauty of nature as it surrounds you today. He has created a marvelous place where we can live in His awesome presence. Can you feel Jesus near you today in the place where you live?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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. You may have received a forwarded copy.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Feeding the hungry
Luke 12:22-23 (NIV)
22 Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. 23 Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.
Good morning!
When I was younger, I loved to go out and eat dinner at a restaurant. My family only went out to eat twice a year, and that was it. After church on Easter Sunday, my parents would drive to a Chinese restaurant in South Louis just to eat a bowl of chop suey. My mother’s birthday is in late March, so this dinner doubled as her birthday celebration. My father, sister, and I were all born in December. We celebrated aboard Noah’s Ark every year, a restaurant that has been closed for some time now. I looked forward to seeing the large-mouth hippopotamus greet me at the door of the ark with a loud and scary bellow. I collected the orange long-necked giraffe stirrers that came with our glasses of iced tea. Because we did not eat out often, this was a very special treat.
Food is served in such large portions today. I find it difficult to clean my plate. I don’t know about you, but when we’ve dropped a chunk of change on a meal, we hate to waste the food by not eating it. My mother did a really good job of making me feel totally guilty when I was growing up at home. She reminded me of all the starving children around the world who were dying because they did not have food on their table today. Every time I looked at the plate of food sitting in front of me, I would think about those sweet little babies who were starving overseas. How I wish I could just box up my leftovers and wire them across the ocean. Better yet, I could have saved the money I was spending on that large meal and sent it to feed a family who had nothing to eat today.
Jeff and I spent a romantic evening last night, walking along the Pacific Ocean and picking up seashells on the beach at Coronado Bay. This small island is situated at the southern-most tip of San Diego. We walked by the Old Coronado hotel, strolling underneath the street lamps and perusing the many tempting shops and restaurants. We decided to eat at a quaint little steak house across the street from the hotel. The food was fabulous, but it was way too much. We had no place to store the leftovers, so we did our best to clean our plates. Neither of us was totally successful. I was thinking about all those starving children on the ride home, as my belly screamed at me. I could have fed a small army with that plate of food. Good grief! Have you ever been simply miserable after over indulging at a restaurant?
We spend a lot of our life worrying about trivial matters. Where we are going to eat today and whatever shall we wear seem to consume our thoughts much more than they should. Many of our brothers and sisters have no change of clothes to pick from. Some people do not know where they will eat today, but wonder whether they will be able to eat anything at all. As the body of Christ, we are called to feed each other, not just with food that fills the belly, but food that fills the soul. We are to place our faith in Christ, looking to Him for our every need. Jesus fed the hungry ones with food that filled their bellies and everlasting food that filled their souls. We can feed a starving and confused generation by offering them our Lord Jesus Christ.
Who will you feed today? There are lots of hungry people out there. Will you set aside your personal need to help them? The next time your stomach grumbles from hunger, think about the child who has had nothing to eat today and find a way to do something about it. People are starving to death all around us. Offer them hope. Give them something substantial to eat. Share Jesus Christ today, in your actions, your words, and with your life. You can make a lasting difference by finding ways to meet the physical and spiritual needs of your neighbor today.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: courage to step out in faith through the saving power of Jesus Christ. It is time to stop worrying about yourself and start thinking about the needs of those around you. You can offer someone hope today by sharing the love of Christ with them. Whom will you choose to feed this morning?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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 12:22-23 (NIV)
22 Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. 23 Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.
Good morning!
When I was younger, I loved to go out and eat dinner at a restaurant. My family only went out to eat twice a year, and that was it. After church on Easter Sunday, my parents would drive to a Chinese restaurant in South Louis just to eat a bowl of chop suey. My mother’s birthday is in late March, so this dinner doubled as her birthday celebration. My father, sister, and I were all born in December. We celebrated aboard Noah’s Ark every year, a restaurant that has been closed for some time now. I looked forward to seeing the large-mouth hippopotamus greet me at the door of the ark with a loud and scary bellow. I collected the orange long-necked giraffe stirrers that came with our glasses of iced tea. Because we did not eat out often, this was a very special treat.
Food is served in such large portions today. I find it difficult to clean my plate. I don’t know about you, but when we’ve dropped a chunk of change on a meal, we hate to waste the food by not eating it. My mother did a really good job of making me feel totally guilty when I was growing up at home. She reminded me of all the starving children around the world who were dying because they did not have food on their table today. Every time I looked at the plate of food sitting in front of me, I would think about those sweet little babies who were starving overseas. How I wish I could just box up my leftovers and wire them across the ocean. Better yet, I could have saved the money I was spending on that large meal and sent it to feed a family who had nothing to eat today.
Jeff and I spent a romantic evening last night, walking along the Pacific Ocean and picking up seashells on the beach at Coronado Bay. This small island is situated at the southern-most tip of San Diego. We walked by the Old Coronado hotel, strolling underneath the street lamps and perusing the many tempting shops and restaurants. We decided to eat at a quaint little steak house across the street from the hotel. The food was fabulous, but it was way too much. We had no place to store the leftovers, so we did our best to clean our plates. Neither of us was totally successful. I was thinking about all those starving children on the ride home, as my belly screamed at me. I could have fed a small army with that plate of food. Good grief! Have you ever been simply miserable after over indulging at a restaurant?
We spend a lot of our life worrying about trivial matters. Where we are going to eat today and whatever shall we wear seem to consume our thoughts much more than they should. Many of our brothers and sisters have no change of clothes to pick from. Some people do not know where they will eat today, but wonder whether they will be able to eat anything at all. As the body of Christ, we are called to feed each other, not just with food that fills the belly, but food that fills the soul. We are to place our faith in Christ, looking to Him for our every need. Jesus fed the hungry ones with food that filled their bellies and everlasting food that filled their souls. We can feed a starving and confused generation by offering them our Lord Jesus Christ.
Who will you feed today? There are lots of hungry people out there. Will you set aside your personal need to help them? The next time your stomach grumbles from hunger, think about the child who has had nothing to eat today and find a way to do something about it. People are starving to death all around us. Offer them hope. Give them something substantial to eat. Share Jesus Christ today, in your actions, your words, and with your life. You can make a lasting difference by finding ways to meet the physical and spiritual needs of your neighbor today.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: courage to step out in faith through the saving power of Jesus Christ. It is time to stop worrying about yourself and start thinking about the needs of those around you. You can offer someone hope today by sharing the love of Christ with them. Whom will you choose to feed this morning?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 16, 2007
Pacific Sand
Romans 9:27-28; 30-33 (NIV)
27 Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: “Though the number of Israelites be like the sand by the sea, only the remnant will be saved. 28 For the Lord will carry out His sentence on earth with speed and finality.
30 What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; 31 but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it. 32 Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the “stumbling stone.” 33 As it is written: “See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, and the one who trusts in Him will never be put to shame.”
Good morning!
I saw it with my very own eyes last night. I touched it with my hands; I walked in it barefooted. I stood in absolute awe and watched as the Pacific tide washed over the sandy beach where I stood. The lights of San Diego flickered in the misty hue of evening tide. I was cold in the chilly, wet air; thankful to have a warm windbreaker to wear. My bare feet were toasty warm in the sand as I walked along the shore. Men in wetsuits were playing in the surf. Waiting to catch a wave, they clung to their surfboards and waited for the perfect pick-me-up. Some paddled on their bellies and enjoyed a free ride to shore. Seagulls circled above my head, landing near my feet. They seemed content having me near them. Several people had built a bonfire nearby, enjoying a magnificent view of the ocean while toasting marshmallows and roasting hot dogs on skewers. There are no words to adequately describe this amazing created work of God. I felt very small, standing there, squishing my toes in the wet sand. How can He possibly know my name? The Father knows each and every one of us by name. We are His children and just like the grains of sand along the seashore, He knows who you are. He knows who I am. And He loves us so much more than we can possibly comprehend.
Many generations have walked along the beaches of life. Footprints are seen for only a moment before the tide washes them away. Where are they going? Are they just as perplexed as I am, when I stand on the shore and look out over the deep and endless water? Can they feel the hand of God touching their faces in the salty spray carried by power of the evening breeze? Or do they feel more like an insignificant grain of sand, surrounded in a sea of a billion others, unnoticed, unnecessary and unloved?
Yesterday morning, Jeff and I sat together on the floor near Gate C-8, with boarding tickets in hand. It was a flight filled to capacity, and there were only a few places open to sit and wait. We chose to sit together on the floor close to the ticket counter, next to a young man who appeared to be traveling alone. I offered to buy him breakfast. He looked rather hungry, like most college students do. He was surprised that someone would care enough to offer to buy him breakfast in a crowded airport terminal, where people were consumed by the images floating across their laptop computer screens while talking incessantly on the cell phone hugging their ear. If you want to experience a true moment of insignificance, take some time to sit at the airport boarding gate and watch how many people pass you by, absolutely oblivious to the faces around them.
We are the masses, the tiny grains of sand spread out across the shores of life. The prophet Isaiah cried out to His people, “Wake up! See your salvation not through the things you do but through the eyes of faith. We seem to get so busy moving and doing and working and planning. We try to follow all the rules. Some of us are better at it than others. Yet, there is a tiny remnant, a smattering of faithful ones, who will choose to live out their life not by what they can do, but what the Lord can do through them. They are the ones who hear His still small voice, and answer His call with resounding joy.
As Jeff and I walked hand-in-hand along the shore last night, I twisted my foot on a stone. I stumbled. If he had not been there to catch me, I would have fallen down. Sometimes we all need a hand to hold as we walk along the shore. My friends, we do not walk alone, even though some of us choose to. Jesus Christ is standing right in front of you, and He is trying to get your attention. Will you look up this morning and see the risen Christ walking across the water, reaching His hand out to you? Will you choose to live not by the laws or the culture or the norms you experience day-to-day, but by placing your faith in the only one who can offer you everlasting and abundant life? If you find yourself walking alone this morning, surrounded by oblivious, busy people, self-absorbed and in a hurry, stop right where you are, and take off your sandals. You are standing on holy ground. You do not have to understand why or how to experience the amazing love, healing and forgiveness that comes only through faith in Jesus Christ.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: eyes to see Him today. Come and join the remnant. Take a walk in the sand with me today. We can share a little breakfast together as we wait for our Lord’s return. Jesus Christ is out there, walking on the water, calling your name.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Romans 9:27-28; 30-33 (NIV)
27 Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: “Though the number of Israelites be like the sand by the sea, only the remnant will be saved. 28 For the Lord will carry out His sentence on earth with speed and finality.
30 What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; 31 but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it. 32 Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the “stumbling stone.” 33 As it is written: “See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, and the one who trusts in Him will never be put to shame.”
Good morning!
I saw it with my very own eyes last night. I touched it with my hands; I walked in it barefooted. I stood in absolute awe and watched as the Pacific tide washed over the sandy beach where I stood. The lights of San Diego flickered in the misty hue of evening tide. I was cold in the chilly, wet air; thankful to have a warm windbreaker to wear. My bare feet were toasty warm in the sand as I walked along the shore. Men in wetsuits were playing in the surf. Waiting to catch a wave, they clung to their surfboards and waited for the perfect pick-me-up. Some paddled on their bellies and enjoyed a free ride to shore. Seagulls circled above my head, landing near my feet. They seemed content having me near them. Several people had built a bonfire nearby, enjoying a magnificent view of the ocean while toasting marshmallows and roasting hot dogs on skewers. There are no words to adequately describe this amazing created work of God. I felt very small, standing there, squishing my toes in the wet sand. How can He possibly know my name? The Father knows each and every one of us by name. We are His children and just like the grains of sand along the seashore, He knows who you are. He knows who I am. And He loves us so much more than we can possibly comprehend.
Many generations have walked along the beaches of life. Footprints are seen for only a moment before the tide washes them away. Where are they going? Are they just as perplexed as I am, when I stand on the shore and look out over the deep and endless water? Can they feel the hand of God touching their faces in the salty spray carried by power of the evening breeze? Or do they feel more like an insignificant grain of sand, surrounded in a sea of a billion others, unnoticed, unnecessary and unloved?
Yesterday morning, Jeff and I sat together on the floor near Gate C-8, with boarding tickets in hand. It was a flight filled to capacity, and there were only a few places open to sit and wait. We chose to sit together on the floor close to the ticket counter, next to a young man who appeared to be traveling alone. I offered to buy him breakfast. He looked rather hungry, like most college students do. He was surprised that someone would care enough to offer to buy him breakfast in a crowded airport terminal, where people were consumed by the images floating across their laptop computer screens while talking incessantly on the cell phone hugging their ear. If you want to experience a true moment of insignificance, take some time to sit at the airport boarding gate and watch how many people pass you by, absolutely oblivious to the faces around them.
We are the masses, the tiny grains of sand spread out across the shores of life. The prophet Isaiah cried out to His people, “Wake up! See your salvation not through the things you do but through the eyes of faith. We seem to get so busy moving and doing and working and planning. We try to follow all the rules. Some of us are better at it than others. Yet, there is a tiny remnant, a smattering of faithful ones, who will choose to live out their life not by what they can do, but what the Lord can do through them. They are the ones who hear His still small voice, and answer His call with resounding joy.
As Jeff and I walked hand-in-hand along the shore last night, I twisted my foot on a stone. I stumbled. If he had not been there to catch me, I would have fallen down. Sometimes we all need a hand to hold as we walk along the shore. My friends, we do not walk alone, even though some of us choose to. Jesus Christ is standing right in front of you, and He is trying to get your attention. Will you look up this morning and see the risen Christ walking across the water, reaching His hand out to you? Will you choose to live not by the laws or the culture or the norms you experience day-to-day, but by placing your faith in the only one who can offer you everlasting and abundant life? If you find yourself walking alone this morning, surrounded by oblivious, busy people, self-absorbed and in a hurry, stop right where you are, and take off your sandals. You are standing on holy ground. You do not have to understand why or how to experience the amazing love, healing and forgiveness that comes only through faith in Jesus Christ.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: eyes to see Him today. Come and join the remnant. Take a walk in the sand with me today. We can share a little breakfast together as we wait for our Lord’s return. Jesus Christ is out there, walking on the water, calling your name.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 15, 2007
The heart of a cheerleader
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 22, 23, 24 (NIV)
1 Chronicles 22:11-13 (NIV)
11 “Now, my son, the Lord be with you, and may you have success and build the house of the Lord your God, as He said you would. 12 May the Lord give you discretion and understanding when He puts you in command over Israel, so that you may keep the law of the Lord your God. 13 Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the Lord gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.
Good morning!
When I realized I wasn’t going to make the Pom Pom squad in Junior High, I was personally crushed. My nature is to be an encourager and supporter, and I lacked nothing in team spirit. Unfortunately, I was not very coordinated. I could jump and shout with the best of my sisters, but when it came to moving in motion, watching me dance was comical, and very frustrating for my team. I made the first cut, but failed in the finals. I really wanted to wear the team colors and cheer our school on to victory. Fortunately for the Pommies, they were better off if I was cheering from the sidelines rather than on the squad.
Have you ever felt called to do something, yet found you might not be equipped for the job? There is not a person alive who doesn’t want to feel successful in the vocation to which they are called. King David really wanted to build the temple, but when God said no, He bore no resentment toward the calling of his son, Solomon. Instead, this loving father prayed that his son would be equipped with the skill sets and wisdom necessary to get the job done. He supported the boy with prayer and praise. What an amazing contribution David made to the construction of the temple by supporting and encouraging his son to carry out the job at hand.
If someone handed me a hammer, nails, and a level, expecting me to erect something solid and stable, they would be sorely disappointed at the finished product. With a master’s instruction, I could potentially learn how to become an expert carpenter; then again, maybe not. I thank God for the gift mix of our church trustees every day. Please don’t ever hand me a power tool. It’s a truly dangerous thing for every person involved.
The Lord has given each of us special gifts and graces. We are unique creations of the master artist. When we are able to recognize and accept our strengths and weaknesses for what they are, we can find ways to make a positive contribution to the work we are called to do. It is important that we lay aside our petty jealousies, and encourage each another. Cheerleaders in the bleachers are just as important as the squad jumping around on the gymnasium floor. I may not be very good with construction, but I can make a mean turkey sandwich, and maybe I should be the person to feed the carpenters who are raising the roof of the temple.
We are better together. Every heart is valuable treasure to the Lord. Every one of us has an opportunity to share the message of salvation with the people who surround us each day. How will you choose to contribute to the task at hand?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the Lord to reveal your gift mix. Do not be envious or discouraged by what you may not possess. Hand Jesus your heart today, and just watch what He can do through the amazing gift of you.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 22, 23, 24 (NIV)
1 Chronicles 22:11-13 (NIV)
11 “Now, my son, the Lord be with you, and may you have success and build the house of the Lord your God, as He said you would. 12 May the Lord give you discretion and understanding when He puts you in command over Israel, so that you may keep the law of the Lord your God. 13 Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the Lord gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.
Good morning!
When I realized I wasn’t going to make the Pom Pom squad in Junior High, I was personally crushed. My nature is to be an encourager and supporter, and I lacked nothing in team spirit. Unfortunately, I was not very coordinated. I could jump and shout with the best of my sisters, but when it came to moving in motion, watching me dance was comical, and very frustrating for my team. I made the first cut, but failed in the finals. I really wanted to wear the team colors and cheer our school on to victory. Fortunately for the Pommies, they were better off if I was cheering from the sidelines rather than on the squad.
Have you ever felt called to do something, yet found you might not be equipped for the job? There is not a person alive who doesn’t want to feel successful in the vocation to which they are called. King David really wanted to build the temple, but when God said no, He bore no resentment toward the calling of his son, Solomon. Instead, this loving father prayed that his son would be equipped with the skill sets and wisdom necessary to get the job done. He supported the boy with prayer and praise. What an amazing contribution David made to the construction of the temple by supporting and encouraging his son to carry out the job at hand.
If someone handed me a hammer, nails, and a level, expecting me to erect something solid and stable, they would be sorely disappointed at the finished product. With a master’s instruction, I could potentially learn how to become an expert carpenter; then again, maybe not. I thank God for the gift mix of our church trustees every day. Please don’t ever hand me a power tool. It’s a truly dangerous thing for every person involved.
The Lord has given each of us special gifts and graces. We are unique creations of the master artist. When we are able to recognize and accept our strengths and weaknesses for what they are, we can find ways to make a positive contribution to the work we are called to do. It is important that we lay aside our petty jealousies, and encourage each another. Cheerleaders in the bleachers are just as important as the squad jumping around on the gymnasium floor. I may not be very good with construction, but I can make a mean turkey sandwich, and maybe I should be the person to feed the carpenters who are raising the roof of the temple.
We are better together. Every heart is valuable treasure to the Lord. Every one of us has an opportunity to share the message of salvation with the people who surround us each day. How will you choose to contribute to the task at hand?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the Lord to reveal your gift mix. Do not be envious or discouraged by what you may not possess. Hand Jesus your heart today, and just watch what He can do through the amazing gift of you.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 14, 2007
The price of sacrifice
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 19, 20, 21 (NIV)
I Chronicles 21:20-24 (NIV)
20 While Araunah was threshing wheat, he turned and saw the angel; his four sons who were with him hid themselves. 21 Then David approached, and when Araunah looked and saw him, he left the threshing floor and bowed down before David with his face to the ground. 22 David said to him, “Let me have the site of your threshing floor so I can build an altar to the Lord, that the plague on the people may be stopped. Sell it to me at the full price.” 23 Araunah said to David, “Take it! Let my Lord the King do whatever pleases him. Look, I will give the oxen for the burnt offerings, the threshing sledges for the wood, and the wheat for the grain offering. I will give all this.” 24 But King David replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on paying the full price. I will not take for the Lord what is yours, or sacrifice a burnt offering that costs me nothing.”
Good morning!
I have always treasured handmade gifts. My mother and grandmother taught me how to knit when I was very young. One of my aunts was masterful at crocheting. I have never seen anything more beautiful than the baby sweaters and blankets she used to make. Every Saturday, the four of us would sit together, and solve all the world’s problems while rocking and stitching in my grandmother’s living room. I made lots of potholders, neck scarves and even a poncho out of bright orange yarn. Mom liked to knit sweaters and vests. Grandmother tatted and crocheted beautiful bedspread overlays and tablecloths. I have a tablecloth that my grandmother made for me. I’ve displayed it on several tables in my home, and it has been proudly used at every wedding for our children. I need to wash it, but I’m afraid it will shrink up to nothing. It needs a good cleaning so that we can use it when our grandchildren marry. My aunt could knit a baby set, including a sweater, cap, booties and blanket in one sitting. I have never seen anyone knit as fast as auntie. It seemed as if they never made mistakes. I, on the other hand, continually kept stopping to rip out a section to pick up a missed stitch. The women in my family were talented and blessed, and they gave away a little piece of themselves every time they made a handmade treasure to share with someone else.
King David had messed up in a big way, and the people of Israel were paying for his sin with their lives. A plague, carried by an angel of the Lord, had wiped out 70,000 people in one fell swoop. Jerusalem was about to be destroyed when the Lord saw David’s grieving spirit and had compassion. The Lord instructed the angel to withdraw the hand of destruction from Israel. David recognized the need to back up and rip out the sin of pride and self-reliance that had led him into some serious errors. David knew he had grieved the very heart of God. Grief can be a bitter pill to swallow when we realize how selfish sin affects the lives of those around us. David needed God’s forgiveness in the worst way. He made an offer to purchase Araunah’s threshing floor so that he could build an altar of sacrifice to the Lord. Araunah saw the angel hovering as he looked into the eyes of his king. He was willing to give the land to David free of charge; yet, David knew that every gift given to God must come at a personal price. How could David offer the Lord something for nothing? Only a sacrificial gift would do.
What are you willing to sacrifice to the Lord today? Would you offer Him a half-hearted prayer, five minutes of Bible reading, and a thirty-second table grace? Is it enough to sit in church one hour every week? Is your giving just a token pledge or something that costs you dearly? How much love is placed in the gifts we return to the Lord? Are you be willing to give everything you’ve got, if it meant that someone might find eternal life through the saving power of Jesus Christ?
The gift of salvation is the very best gift you will ever receive. It is God’s gift through Christ, free of charge, to every person who professes, confesses and places their total faith in Him. This is not a gift we can earn and it is certainly not something we deserve. Jesus Christ gave His life for our redemption. If you have received this gift of grace, are you willing to sacrifice the very best of what you have to extend that gift to another soul this morning? The price of sacrifice is high. What will you sacrifice for your Lord?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the desire to give God the very best you have to offer Him. Token pledges and half-hearted effort will never ever do. Give the gift of yourself and see what the Lord Jesus Christ can do with one grateful heart. He can use your life for kingdom work, if you are willing to pay the price of sacrifice.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 19, 20, 21 (NIV)
I Chronicles 21:20-24 (NIV)
20 While Araunah was threshing wheat, he turned and saw the angel; his four sons who were with him hid themselves. 21 Then David approached, and when Araunah looked and saw him, he left the threshing floor and bowed down before David with his face to the ground. 22 David said to him, “Let me have the site of your threshing floor so I can build an altar to the Lord, that the plague on the people may be stopped. Sell it to me at the full price.” 23 Araunah said to David, “Take it! Let my Lord the King do whatever pleases him. Look, I will give the oxen for the burnt offerings, the threshing sledges for the wood, and the wheat for the grain offering. I will give all this.” 24 But King David replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on paying the full price. I will not take for the Lord what is yours, or sacrifice a burnt offering that costs me nothing.”
Good morning!
I have always treasured handmade gifts. My mother and grandmother taught me how to knit when I was very young. One of my aunts was masterful at crocheting. I have never seen anything more beautiful than the baby sweaters and blankets she used to make. Every Saturday, the four of us would sit together, and solve all the world’s problems while rocking and stitching in my grandmother’s living room. I made lots of potholders, neck scarves and even a poncho out of bright orange yarn. Mom liked to knit sweaters and vests. Grandmother tatted and crocheted beautiful bedspread overlays and tablecloths. I have a tablecloth that my grandmother made for me. I’ve displayed it on several tables in my home, and it has been proudly used at every wedding for our children. I need to wash it, but I’m afraid it will shrink up to nothing. It needs a good cleaning so that we can use it when our grandchildren marry. My aunt could knit a baby set, including a sweater, cap, booties and blanket in one sitting. I have never seen anyone knit as fast as auntie. It seemed as if they never made mistakes. I, on the other hand, continually kept stopping to rip out a section to pick up a missed stitch. The women in my family were talented and blessed, and they gave away a little piece of themselves every time they made a handmade treasure to share with someone else.
King David had messed up in a big way, and the people of Israel were paying for his sin with their lives. A plague, carried by an angel of the Lord, had wiped out 70,000 people in one fell swoop. Jerusalem was about to be destroyed when the Lord saw David’s grieving spirit and had compassion. The Lord instructed the angel to withdraw the hand of destruction from Israel. David recognized the need to back up and rip out the sin of pride and self-reliance that had led him into some serious errors. David knew he had grieved the very heart of God. Grief can be a bitter pill to swallow when we realize how selfish sin affects the lives of those around us. David needed God’s forgiveness in the worst way. He made an offer to purchase Araunah’s threshing floor so that he could build an altar of sacrifice to the Lord. Araunah saw the angel hovering as he looked into the eyes of his king. He was willing to give the land to David free of charge; yet, David knew that every gift given to God must come at a personal price. How could David offer the Lord something for nothing? Only a sacrificial gift would do.
What are you willing to sacrifice to the Lord today? Would you offer Him a half-hearted prayer, five minutes of Bible reading, and a thirty-second table grace? Is it enough to sit in church one hour every week? Is your giving just a token pledge or something that costs you dearly? How much love is placed in the gifts we return to the Lord? Are you be willing to give everything you’ve got, if it meant that someone might find eternal life through the saving power of Jesus Christ?
The gift of salvation is the very best gift you will ever receive. It is God’s gift through Christ, free of charge, to every person who professes, confesses and places their total faith in Him. This is not a gift we can earn and it is certainly not something we deserve. Jesus Christ gave His life for our redemption. If you have received this gift of grace, are you willing to sacrifice the very best of what you have to extend that gift to another soul this morning? The price of sacrifice is high. What will you sacrifice for your Lord?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the desire to give God the very best you have to offer Him. Token pledges and half-hearted effort will never ever do. Give the gift of yourself and see what the Lord Jesus Christ can do with one grateful heart. He can use your life for kingdom work, if you are willing to pay the price of sacrifice.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 13, 2007
A little separation anxiety
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 16, 17, 18 (NIV)
Matthew 19:4-6 (NIV)
4 “Haven’t you read,” [Jesus] replied, “that at the beginning the Creator made them male and female,’ 5 and said for this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh? 6 So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.”
Good morning!
Yesterday was one of those days – a day that every parent dreams of forever and dreads most of all. Ultimately, we want our children to grow up happy and fulfilled. We run ourselves silly offering our children every opportunity to learn and grow, hoping they will someday become happy and responsible adults. It takes an absolute lifetime to raise a child, but only the blink of an eye to see them go away. I’ve figured out why mothers of the groom cry on their sons wedding day. I believe it is called separation anxiety.
The weather was picture perfect. There was an undercurrent of excitement in the air. Hair, nails and Starbucks® coffee became the theme of the bridal party’s early morning hours. The women looked radiant in front of the floor-length mirror in the chapel dressing room. The men strutted around in their brand new suits and ties. The children (there were eight of them) prepared to make their way down the aisle just in front of the bride. There was one chocolatey milk mess emergency. Pretty little Emily ran around in her underwear and dress sandals while Granny Deb and Pastor Kim worked feverishly to get the stain out, just five minutes prior to the processional march. These are the moments a mother will never forget.
As I helped my beautiful daughter-in-law put on her wedding gown, I couldn’t help but feel sad. She is so perfect for my David, in every way. And on this day, Becca had a glow about her that I’ve never seen before. Yet, someone we loved was missing this moment. Becca’s mother was ill and unable to be at the wedding. Just two days ago, she entered the intensive care unit at a local hospital for emergency medical treatment. It was her wish for Becca and David to go forward with the wedding on Saturday. In fact, she insisted upon it. It was her lack of physical presence that felt so absolutely unbearable. We were both trying hard not to cry. I found myself dressing my daughter-in-law so that she could walk down the aisle to marry our son, and all I could think about was the bride’s mother. I think I prayed harder in those moments than I’ve ever prayed in my entire life. How I begged the Lord to help me hold back those tears – the kind that makes your nose swell up and eyeballs all red and puffy. But I just couldn’t stop crying. At one point during the ceremony, my sweet sister handed me an old handkerchief belonging to my father. Thank goodness for baby sisters who come to our rescue just in the nick of time.
Yesterday, I was the mother of the groom. But in that moment standing in the processional line waiting to walk, I knew in my heart of hearts that I was also the mother of the bride. I walked behind the wee ones and just ahead my Rebecca. I carried our baby granddaughter Madison in my arms, and held tight to the hand of my three-year-old granddaughter Emily. We walked together down the aisle. There is strength in numbers. Maddie Marie was waving to the congregation, and little Emily picked at her nose while their grandmother wept uncontrollably. It is a mysterious moment in time when we realize as parents; we have done all we can do. We hand our heartstrings back to the Lord, allowing Him to produce a beautiful melody that has yet to be heard.
Yesterday, my son took a wife. He left our home and moved into their new apartment. I remember when they cut the umbilical cord at the hospital twenty-one years ago. Breathe, baby breathe! This is every mother’s prayer. There is a separation anxiety that occurs in the birthing process, and it reoccurs in every major life-changing milestone thereafter. Wedding marches are definitely cord-cutting moments.
Separation anxiety is something we all experience in life. I have learned that it can be a really good thing when we know who to look to for our strength. Jesus Christ understands separation anxiety. He knew what it would mean to leave His heavenly home and become the lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world. Jesus willingly chose obedience over fear, and lived out His love for humanity on Calvary’s cross. I can let go and let God, if I’m willing to trust Him completely. Am I?
Do you trust Him enough today to let the Lord of life cut the umbilical cord? Will you hand Him your hopes, your dearms, and your life? Will you give Him your children and grandchildren and watch with amazement to see what He can do? Faith soars in moments of separation anxiety. Do not hesitate to welcome every tear as you hand the Lord of life your heart's song.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
This is my prayer today. I hope you will make it your prayer too. Help us, dear Lord, to gracefully let our children grow up and fly away, knowing that your plan for their life is so much larger than anything we can possibly imagine. Protect them, we pray, and teach them how to depend completely upon you, as they journey back into your Holy presence. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 16, 17, 18 (NIV)
Matthew 19:4-6 (NIV)
4 “Haven’t you read,” [Jesus] replied, “that at the beginning the Creator made them male and female,’ 5 and said for this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh? 6 So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.”
Good morning!
Yesterday was one of those days – a day that every parent dreams of forever and dreads most of all. Ultimately, we want our children to grow up happy and fulfilled. We run ourselves silly offering our children every opportunity to learn and grow, hoping they will someday become happy and responsible adults. It takes an absolute lifetime to raise a child, but only the blink of an eye to see them go away. I’ve figured out why mothers of the groom cry on their sons wedding day. I believe it is called separation anxiety.
The weather was picture perfect. There was an undercurrent of excitement in the air. Hair, nails and Starbucks® coffee became the theme of the bridal party’s early morning hours. The women looked radiant in front of the floor-length mirror in the chapel dressing room. The men strutted around in their brand new suits and ties. The children (there were eight of them) prepared to make their way down the aisle just in front of the bride. There was one chocolatey milk mess emergency. Pretty little Emily ran around in her underwear and dress sandals while Granny Deb and Pastor Kim worked feverishly to get the stain out, just five minutes prior to the processional march. These are the moments a mother will never forget.
As I helped my beautiful daughter-in-law put on her wedding gown, I couldn’t help but feel sad. She is so perfect for my David, in every way. And on this day, Becca had a glow about her that I’ve never seen before. Yet, someone we loved was missing this moment. Becca’s mother was ill and unable to be at the wedding. Just two days ago, she entered the intensive care unit at a local hospital for emergency medical treatment. It was her wish for Becca and David to go forward with the wedding on Saturday. In fact, she insisted upon it. It was her lack of physical presence that felt so absolutely unbearable. We were both trying hard not to cry. I found myself dressing my daughter-in-law so that she could walk down the aisle to marry our son, and all I could think about was the bride’s mother. I think I prayed harder in those moments than I’ve ever prayed in my entire life. How I begged the Lord to help me hold back those tears – the kind that makes your nose swell up and eyeballs all red and puffy. But I just couldn’t stop crying. At one point during the ceremony, my sweet sister handed me an old handkerchief belonging to my father. Thank goodness for baby sisters who come to our rescue just in the nick of time.
Yesterday, I was the mother of the groom. But in that moment standing in the processional line waiting to walk, I knew in my heart of hearts that I was also the mother of the bride. I walked behind the wee ones and just ahead my Rebecca. I carried our baby granddaughter Madison in my arms, and held tight to the hand of my three-year-old granddaughter Emily. We walked together down the aisle. There is strength in numbers. Maddie Marie was waving to the congregation, and little Emily picked at her nose while their grandmother wept uncontrollably. It is a mysterious moment in time when we realize as parents; we have done all we can do. We hand our heartstrings back to the Lord, allowing Him to produce a beautiful melody that has yet to be heard.
Yesterday, my son took a wife. He left our home and moved into their new apartment. I remember when they cut the umbilical cord at the hospital twenty-one years ago. Breathe, baby breathe! This is every mother’s prayer. There is a separation anxiety that occurs in the birthing process, and it reoccurs in every major life-changing milestone thereafter. Wedding marches are definitely cord-cutting moments.
Separation anxiety is something we all experience in life. I have learned that it can be a really good thing when we know who to look to for our strength. Jesus Christ understands separation anxiety. He knew what it would mean to leave His heavenly home and become the lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world. Jesus willingly chose obedience over fear, and lived out His love for humanity on Calvary’s cross. I can let go and let God, if I’m willing to trust Him completely. Am I?
Do you trust Him enough today to let the Lord of life cut the umbilical cord? Will you hand Him your hopes, your dearms, and your life? Will you give Him your children and grandchildren and watch with amazement to see what He can do? Faith soars in moments of separation anxiety. Do not hesitate to welcome every tear as you hand the Lord of life your heart's song.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
This is my prayer today. I hope you will make it your prayer too. Help us, dear Lord, to gracefully let our children grow up and fly away, knowing that your plan for their life is so much larger than anything we can possibly imagine. Protect them, we pray, and teach them how to depend completely upon you, as they journey back into your Holy presence. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 12, 2007
Static Cling!
Grand Sweep Daily
Romans 12:9-13 (NIV)
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 13 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faith in prayer. 13 Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Good morning!
Static cling is one of the most annoying aspects of dressing up, in my humble opinion. I simply despise having to fight with a skirt that will not let go of my legs while I’m walking. I keep a bottle of Static Guard® in my desk at work for days just like these. It is an annoyance I would rather live without.
Have you ever noticed how disconcerting static can be? We hear the static on our car radios as we move between towers. When I am driving a long distance, I may be listening to a talk show or a music station that I’m really enjoying, when suddenly, all I can hear is static as I move out of its range. It is a frustrating moment, when static occurs. The little things of daily living can become like static in our lives. We don’t listen carefully to the needs of our family, because we are distracted with other trivial matters that steal our attention from the one who needs us most at that moment. I wish I had a spray that I could pull off a shelf to spray away the little annoyances of my life. I could live with a little less static, thank you very much.
Static is simply distracting. It takes our mind off the main thing. We lose track of what we’re trying to accomplish, because the static is getting in our way. Do you have static in your life? Does it make you lose sight of the main thing?
The Apostle Paul reminds us to hate what is evil, but cling to what is good. Static cling can be a good thing, if we are clinging to the Lord of life. When I hold onto Him, Jesus fills me up with an electrical current that moves me to action. He draws me to Himself, and I never ever want to let Him go. If I can just “hang on” to the hem of His garment, I know what is going to happen. I’m going to get healed! I’m going to be loved! He is going to hold me in the palm of His hand and I know He will never let go of my heart. The love of Christ is worth clinging to, every minute of every day.
Aren’t you glad God doesn’t use a spray can of static remover to oust you from His path? Jesus Christ wants us to experience the static cling that He can only give. It’s a good thing, and the next time you find your pants leg is creeping up on your dress sock, or if your skirt tries to hug your leg and trip you up, think about clinging to the One who will never let your heart out of His sight. Cling to Jesus, and experience the electricity of salvation today.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
Pray for: a little static electricity! Give Jesus your heart today and cling to Him. He is good. And His mercy and love for you will endure forever.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 11, 2007
Service with a smile!
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 10, 11, 12 (NIV)
I Chronicles 12:18 (NIV)
18 Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, chief of the thirty, and he said: “We are yours, O David! We are with you, O son of Jesse! Success, success to you, and success to those who help you, for your God will help you.” So David received them and made them leaders of his raiding bands.
Good morning!
“May I help you,” the woman said behind the ticket counter. “Yes, please,” I answered, with a grin. “I need all the help I can get!” Don’t you love it when people offer to help you? There is nothing quite like receiving a sincere and kind offer of assistance from a friend. There are some people in this world that we can count on to be there for us, no matter the day or hour. They stand with us in prayer and praise, with open arms and a caring spirit. They seem to simply understand, and are placed in our path at just the right moment in time.
This is what I have found in the body of Christ. My Faith family is there for me, no matter the time of day or night. I know I can count on my Christian brothers and sisters to see me through each moment of my life, and when I need, help, I know who to call!
When our children were babies, we used to coach them on dialing for help. We practiced 9-1-1 on the play phone. Why is it that when we find ourselves in need of emergency assistance, we forget who to dial? On February 1st of this year, I experienced a medical emergency, and I needed immediate assistance. Can I tell you who I called? It wasn’t 9-1-1. I dialed 636-946-6398 and spoke to my Pastor Kim. She located Jeff, and he flew home on the wings of eagles. When he walked through the garage and took one look at me, Jeff picked the phone and dialed 9-1-1. Why didn’t I do that? Thank God for my spouse. He knew who to call!
This is what being part of the body of Christ is like. I know there is a network of people out there who truly love Jesus more than they love themselves. These people are the ones who would remove the shirts off their back to provide it to someone who had no shirt to wear. I see them investing time and energy into the many worthwhile service opportunities at Faith Church. Risk-taking mission has more to do with the spirit in which the gift is given, than the actual work itself. The body of Christ lives to serve their Lord through their humble acts of charity. Just ask them for a little help, and watch how they flock to your front door! It happens every single time. We share each other’s burdens, and that is a treasure and gift from God. When my kin asks if they can help a sister out, they really mean it!
David found himself in the presence of his mighty men. They were willing to serve him with a smile. He wasn’t sure that they could be trusted, until Amasai stepped forward. When the Holy Spirit got hold of this humble man of God, he proclaimed their love for the one God had anointed King. The mighty men recognized the real deal when they met King David. They knew him as a brother, loved him with a passion, and placed their very lives at his disposal. When we give our hearts to Jesus, essentially, we do the same thing. “May I serve you, Lord?” I ask this question every morning when I crawl out of bed to pray. “I am willing. My hands are open, and my heart is full of love for you. Send me wherever you want me to go. Take my life and use me to be your hands, your heart, your voice, and your feet. I am yours, O Lord! I am with you this day! Help me to help others through your amazing love. I am happy to serve you, sweet Jesus.”
Are you willing to serve the Lord and extend His salvation message by helping others today?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the desire to be a happy servant! What a friend we have in Jesus! Let us give back to the One who gave it all up for us. Be a friend in Jesus today. Are you ready to share His love with the people in your life?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 10, 11, 12 (NIV)
I Chronicles 12:18 (NIV)
18 Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, chief of the thirty, and he said: “We are yours, O David! We are with you, O son of Jesse! Success, success to you, and success to those who help you, for your God will help you.” So David received them and made them leaders of his raiding bands.
Good morning!
“May I help you,” the woman said behind the ticket counter. “Yes, please,” I answered, with a grin. “I need all the help I can get!” Don’t you love it when people offer to help you? There is nothing quite like receiving a sincere and kind offer of assistance from a friend. There are some people in this world that we can count on to be there for us, no matter the day or hour. They stand with us in prayer and praise, with open arms and a caring spirit. They seem to simply understand, and are placed in our path at just the right moment in time.
This is what I have found in the body of Christ. My Faith family is there for me, no matter the time of day or night. I know I can count on my Christian brothers and sisters to see me through each moment of my life, and when I need, help, I know who to call!
When our children were babies, we used to coach them on dialing for help. We practiced 9-1-1 on the play phone. Why is it that when we find ourselves in need of emergency assistance, we forget who to dial? On February 1st of this year, I experienced a medical emergency, and I needed immediate assistance. Can I tell you who I called? It wasn’t 9-1-1. I dialed 636-946-6398 and spoke to my Pastor Kim. She located Jeff, and he flew home on the wings of eagles. When he walked through the garage and took one look at me, Jeff picked the phone and dialed 9-1-1. Why didn’t I do that? Thank God for my spouse. He knew who to call!
This is what being part of the body of Christ is like. I know there is a network of people out there who truly love Jesus more than they love themselves. These people are the ones who would remove the shirts off their back to provide it to someone who had no shirt to wear. I see them investing time and energy into the many worthwhile service opportunities at Faith Church. Risk-taking mission has more to do with the spirit in which the gift is given, than the actual work itself. The body of Christ lives to serve their Lord through their humble acts of charity. Just ask them for a little help, and watch how they flock to your front door! It happens every single time. We share each other’s burdens, and that is a treasure and gift from God. When my kin asks if they can help a sister out, they really mean it!
David found himself in the presence of his mighty men. They were willing to serve him with a smile. He wasn’t sure that they could be trusted, until Amasai stepped forward. When the Holy Spirit got hold of this humble man of God, he proclaimed their love for the one God had anointed King. The mighty men recognized the real deal when they met King David. They knew him as a brother, loved him with a passion, and placed their very lives at his disposal. When we give our hearts to Jesus, essentially, we do the same thing. “May I serve you, Lord?” I ask this question every morning when I crawl out of bed to pray. “I am willing. My hands are open, and my heart is full of love for you. Send me wherever you want me to go. Take my life and use me to be your hands, your heart, your voice, and your feet. I am yours, O Lord! I am with you this day! Help me to help others through your amazing love. I am happy to serve you, sweet Jesus.”
Are you willing to serve the Lord and extend His salvation message by helping others today?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the desire to be a happy servant! What a friend we have in Jesus! Let us give back to the One who gave it all up for us. Be a friend in Jesus today. Are you ready to share His love with the people in your life?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 10, 2007
Rehabbing the heart
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 8, 9; Psalm 80 (NIV)
I Chronicles 9:1 (NIV)
1 The people of Judah were taken captive to Babylon because of their unfaithfulness.
Psalm 80: 3, 7, 19 (NIV)
3 Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.
7 Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.
19 Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.
Good morning!
Restoration is hard work. There is a section of downtown Saint Louis that is being restored today. Construction continues to bring old buildings back to life. Capturing the era in which they were erected, historical continuity coupled with modern day technology is reuniting the city’s past with its present. Have you ever rehabbed a home? Those who are gifted in the art of gutting and remodeling know full well the amount of time and energy that is birthed by a unique vision. For some, they see an inhabitable structure and feel desolation – no hope of revival. But for others, the people who can see past the demolition and imagine what this old house might truly become with a little revamping, just hand them a few power tools and watch how their dream becomes reality!
Sometimes the structures that we live in are falling down around us and we don’t even realize it. Blinded by sheer apathy or the sins that haunt our daily living, we hover in uninhabitable living quarters, refusing to see and address the necessary reconstruction that lies ahead. If you stop and take a closer look at the condition of your heart, you may find that you are living out your days in a building that is almost ready to collapse. We lose our dreams when the things of life begin to eat away at our foundation. Its kind of like having termites tear at your heart strings. There is only one way to get rid of the things that are eating you alive – you need to call an exterminator.
When we choose unfaithfulness over obedience, our lives eventually will eventually fall apart. Have you ever experienced a time in your life when you were held captive by some obsession or compulsion? Maybe you struggle with trust issues in relationships, because you’ve been hurt in the past and you don’t ever want to feel that exposed or raw ever again. Maybe your crutch is with comfort food. Are you starving for something you cannot seem to reach, and you try to appease that hunger by feeding your belly instead of your soul? When we identify the root of the problem, it is only then that we can reach for the right tools to help us correct the structural damage in our lives.
Our Lord Jesus Christ is the master architect. He knows who you are and where you’ve been. He sees the structural damage in your heart, and Jesus stands ready to heal you today. Are you ready to be rehabbed? Will you cry out to the only one who can fix your life forever, forgive the unfaithfulness you’ve struggled with, and let Him do the hard work inside of you today? Jesus is the only restorer I know who can take a piece of hardened clay, and make it soft and pliable again. If you need a little restorative work, cry out to the Lord. Everything changes when the Lord of life moves in.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: restoration! Jesus Christ is the only way to complete forgiveness and new life. Are you ready to let the master architect rehab your heart?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 8, 9; Psalm 80 (NIV)
I Chronicles 9:1 (NIV)
1 The people of Judah were taken captive to Babylon because of their unfaithfulness.
Psalm 80: 3, 7, 19 (NIV)
3 Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.
7 Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.
19 Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.
Good morning!
Restoration is hard work. There is a section of downtown Saint Louis that is being restored today. Construction continues to bring old buildings back to life. Capturing the era in which they were erected, historical continuity coupled with modern day technology is reuniting the city’s past with its present. Have you ever rehabbed a home? Those who are gifted in the art of gutting and remodeling know full well the amount of time and energy that is birthed by a unique vision. For some, they see an inhabitable structure and feel desolation – no hope of revival. But for others, the people who can see past the demolition and imagine what this old house might truly become with a little revamping, just hand them a few power tools and watch how their dream becomes reality!
Sometimes the structures that we live in are falling down around us and we don’t even realize it. Blinded by sheer apathy or the sins that haunt our daily living, we hover in uninhabitable living quarters, refusing to see and address the necessary reconstruction that lies ahead. If you stop and take a closer look at the condition of your heart, you may find that you are living out your days in a building that is almost ready to collapse. We lose our dreams when the things of life begin to eat away at our foundation. Its kind of like having termites tear at your heart strings. There is only one way to get rid of the things that are eating you alive – you need to call an exterminator.
When we choose unfaithfulness over obedience, our lives eventually will eventually fall apart. Have you ever experienced a time in your life when you were held captive by some obsession or compulsion? Maybe you struggle with trust issues in relationships, because you’ve been hurt in the past and you don’t ever want to feel that exposed or raw ever again. Maybe your crutch is with comfort food. Are you starving for something you cannot seem to reach, and you try to appease that hunger by feeding your belly instead of your soul? When we identify the root of the problem, it is only then that we can reach for the right tools to help us correct the structural damage in our lives.
Our Lord Jesus Christ is the master architect. He knows who you are and where you’ve been. He sees the structural damage in your heart, and Jesus stands ready to heal you today. Are you ready to be rehabbed? Will you cry out to the only one who can fix your life forever, forgive the unfaithfulness you’ve struggled with, and let Him do the hard work inside of you today? Jesus is the only restorer I know who can take a piece of hardened clay, and make it soft and pliable again. If you need a little restorative work, cry out to the Lord. Everything changes when the Lord of life moves in.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: restoration! Jesus Christ is the only way to complete forgiveness and new life. Are you ready to let the master architect rehab your heart?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 09, 2007
Symphony of souls
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: I Chronicles 6, 7; Psalms 78, 79 (NIV)
I Chronicles 6:31-32; 48-49 (NIV)
31 These are the men David put in charge of the music in the house of the Lord after the ark came to rest there. 32 They ministered with music before the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, until Solomon built the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. They performed their duties according to the regulations laid down for them.
48 Their fellow Levites were assigned to all the other duties of the tabernacle, the house of God. 49 But Aaron and his descendants were the ones who presented offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense in connection with all that was done in the Most Holy Place, making atonement for Israel, in accordance with all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.
Psalm 79:9 (NIV)
9 Help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake.
Good morning!
On a warm and beautiful May evening in the late spring of 1976, I walked across the gymnasium floor and took my seat at the Steinway Grand Piano. For three years I studied one movement of one concerto written by musician and composer Felix Mendelssohn, preparing to play this piece of music in the finale concert of the high school symphony’s season. Musicians understand the investment of time that is given to the perfecting of a five-minute musical moment. One may practice on that same section for hours each day. It is a lesson in the art of repetition. I labored over this piece of music during my freshman, sophomore and junior years of high school. I wish I could tell you that the performance that night was perfect. I remember the mistakes. There were two wrong notes and a slight hesitation before I played the final arpeggio run just prior to the last bars of the movement. I remember them distinctly, although I’m not certain anyone in the audience could recall them today. This is a unique moment in time suspended in my mind and soul forever. It was nothing short of a true gift of love and testimony to the magnificence of the master composer.
I remember the dress I wore on stage. It was a long white gown, with a sheer overlay of pink roses. The pattern on the dress reminded me of the pretty pink rose wallpaper in my grandmother’s guest bedroom. As a child, I would lie on the large feather bed and watch the roses dance across the walls in merry movement. It was as if a rose garden was blooming before my sleepy eyes; a sweet symphony of praise created by the loving hand of the great artist. Roses have always been one of my favorite flowers. They remind me of my grandmother, and a safe haven she called home. She was not physically present at the spring concert in 1976, and yet, in that dress, sitting on the piano bench, it was as if she had her arms wrapped around my neck. I could smell the roses in bloom that night.
We are a symphony of souls, each and every one of us with unique and special gifting. The Lord, the master author of life, takes great pleasure in remembering our name. Scripture recounts over and over again, the generations of servants who are remembered for their gifts and work in the house of the Lord. Each person called to minister offers a unique sound that cannot be duplicated by another. Together, in harmony, we come as the body of Christ, seeking to glorify and serve Him wholeheartedly, in a symphony of praise and worship.
This morning as I sat in prayer, I closed my eyes and saw the servants of the Lord, quietly moving toward the Holy of Holies. Dressed in long, white robes, they carry the petitions of the faithful to place at the foot of the throne. The tears of God’s children are contained in the jeweled boxes placed at the foot of the cross. Like a beautiful rose garden, their fragrance is sweet unto the Lord. Your prayers today rise like a symphony in chorus with the faithful. Your melody is unique. You have given years to its refinement. The time you spend in prayer becomes timeless moments of indescribable joy. The Spirit hovers over you. We are the living symphony of souls.
As you enter your time of prayer today, remember you are not alone. As you take your place at the altar, your unique offering becomes part of a larger melody in chorus with the prayers of the faithful around the world. See how they rise to the heavens today! We continue the work of the generations, taking our place in a moment of time. He sees your offering. He hears your voice. God knows your name. You are so very important to the intricate weaving of His eternal Song. Help me sing it today. Won’t you pray with me?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: ears to hear the symphony of souls crying out to the Lord today. Help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake. He can take our offerings and create a holy perfection in the light of His amazing grace and love.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: I Chronicles 6, 7; Psalms 78, 79 (NIV)
I Chronicles 6:31-32; 48-49 (NIV)
31 These are the men David put in charge of the music in the house of the Lord after the ark came to rest there. 32 They ministered with music before the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, until Solomon built the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. They performed their duties according to the regulations laid down for them.
48 Their fellow Levites were assigned to all the other duties of the tabernacle, the house of God. 49 But Aaron and his descendants were the ones who presented offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense in connection with all that was done in the Most Holy Place, making atonement for Israel, in accordance with all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.
Psalm 79:9 (NIV)
9 Help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake.
Good morning!
On a warm and beautiful May evening in the late spring of 1976, I walked across the gymnasium floor and took my seat at the Steinway Grand Piano. For three years I studied one movement of one concerto written by musician and composer Felix Mendelssohn, preparing to play this piece of music in the finale concert of the high school symphony’s season. Musicians understand the investment of time that is given to the perfecting of a five-minute musical moment. One may practice on that same section for hours each day. It is a lesson in the art of repetition. I labored over this piece of music during my freshman, sophomore and junior years of high school. I wish I could tell you that the performance that night was perfect. I remember the mistakes. There were two wrong notes and a slight hesitation before I played the final arpeggio run just prior to the last bars of the movement. I remember them distinctly, although I’m not certain anyone in the audience could recall them today. This is a unique moment in time suspended in my mind and soul forever. It was nothing short of a true gift of love and testimony to the magnificence of the master composer.
I remember the dress I wore on stage. It was a long white gown, with a sheer overlay of pink roses. The pattern on the dress reminded me of the pretty pink rose wallpaper in my grandmother’s guest bedroom. As a child, I would lie on the large feather bed and watch the roses dance across the walls in merry movement. It was as if a rose garden was blooming before my sleepy eyes; a sweet symphony of praise created by the loving hand of the great artist. Roses have always been one of my favorite flowers. They remind me of my grandmother, and a safe haven she called home. She was not physically present at the spring concert in 1976, and yet, in that dress, sitting on the piano bench, it was as if she had her arms wrapped around my neck. I could smell the roses in bloom that night.
We are a symphony of souls, each and every one of us with unique and special gifting. The Lord, the master author of life, takes great pleasure in remembering our name. Scripture recounts over and over again, the generations of servants who are remembered for their gifts and work in the house of the Lord. Each person called to minister offers a unique sound that cannot be duplicated by another. Together, in harmony, we come as the body of Christ, seeking to glorify and serve Him wholeheartedly, in a symphony of praise and worship.
This morning as I sat in prayer, I closed my eyes and saw the servants of the Lord, quietly moving toward the Holy of Holies. Dressed in long, white robes, they carry the petitions of the faithful to place at the foot of the throne. The tears of God’s children are contained in the jeweled boxes placed at the foot of the cross. Like a beautiful rose garden, their fragrance is sweet unto the Lord. Your prayers today rise like a symphony in chorus with the faithful. Your melody is unique. You have given years to its refinement. The time you spend in prayer becomes timeless moments of indescribable joy. The Spirit hovers over you. We are the living symphony of souls.
As you enter your time of prayer today, remember you are not alone. As you take your place at the altar, your unique offering becomes part of a larger melody in chorus with the prayers of the faithful around the world. See how they rise to the heavens today! We continue the work of the generations, taking our place in a moment of time. He sees your offering. He hears your voice. God knows your name. You are so very important to the intricate weaving of His eternal Song. Help me sing it today. Won’t you pray with me?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: ears to hear the symphony of souls crying out to the Lord today. Help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake. He can take our offerings and create a holy perfection in the light of His amazing grace and love.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 08, 2007
Focus!
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 4, 5; Psalm 77 (NIV)
I Chronicles 4:9-10 (NIV)
9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.
Psalm 77:1-2 (NIV)
1 I cried out to God for help: I cried out to God to hear me. 2 When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands and my soul refused to be comforted.
Good morning!
A long time ago, I learned how to tune the world out so I could focus on what I was trying to accomplish. I can be easily distracted if I allow the noises of life to jump ahead of the task at hand. At some point, all of us have to set aside the things that distract and finish what we’ve started.
There were times, I must confess, when I didn’t pay close attention to my children. I remember moments of sheer madness – trying to cook dinner, run a load of laundry, write a paper on the kitchen counter top, while stirring the spaghetti sauce on the stove, and trying to “listen” to the chatter of my three noisy children, all at one time. I covet moments of peace and quiet, when I can give my full attention over to the task at hand. However, when my children were younger, I found those quiet times to be few and far between. I was gone all day to work. In the evenings, I would take a class at a local college, make time to attend weekly choir rehearsal, sit in on a weekly prayer meeting, and shuttle kiddos to and from the ball field. My to-do list seemed to grow with each passing hour. I felt I had to accomplish all of it before I could fall into bed, exhausted from the day that never seemed to end.
My husband Jeff would bring me back to reality, as the children clamored for undivided attention. He would say, “Deb, do you hear what they are saying to you? Stop saying ‘uh-huh’ and pay attention! I don’t think you want to say ‘yes’ to that question.” Once again, I had zoned out, thinking about the ten other things I needed to do. I was not listening carefully, and for all I know, my children were asking if they could go up on the roof of our home and jump off. Have you ever been so busy with the stuff in your life, that you find yourself unwilling to stop and listen to someone who is trying to speak to you?
Jabez knew what it was like to try to gain his mother’s attention. She named her son Jabez because he caused her great pain in labor. Jabez means sorrowful. Can you imagine growing up in a home where your name is a constant reminder of the pain that you so unintentionally caused your parent? Jabez simply wanted to be loved and heard. He did not want to be held responsible for his mother’s pain. Children are like that. We tend to leave them with the impression that they are in our way, especially when we are too busy to pay them any real attention. Every single time I let the stuff of life get in the way of listening to my kids, it was as if I were saying, “Go away. Leave me alone and let Mommy do what she needs to do.” How I regret those moments. What a waste of precious time.
Jabez prayed a simple prayer to the Lord, who understands us better than we understand ourselves. He said, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory. Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” Jabez did not want to cause anyone harm. He just wanted to receive the blessings that only God could give. He wanted to grow in faith and wisdom, and become someone that the Lord would use for kingdom work. God heard the prayer of Jabez, and the scripture tells us He granted his request.
Are you finding yourself just too busy to make time to listen to God today? Do you try to shove Him out of your way, while you accomplish your to-do list? When you make time to pray, do you find yourself falling asleep or letting your mind wander out of sheer boredom or busyness? Are your half-hearted “uh-huhs” to God just that? The Lord wants our undivided attention. He will not jump up and down, like our children sometimes do. His still, small voice can only be heard when we lay aside the things that distract, and focus our hearts completely upon Him. The Lord God Almighty is trying to speak to you today. Are you listening? Will you make time to stop and hear Him speak?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: focus! The Lord is speaking to you today. If you will make some time to listen, He will speak to your heart. When you cry out to God for help today, don’t let your voice be the only thing you hear. The Lord is answering your prayer before the words ever leave your lips. He hears you. Will you make time to listen to Him today?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 4, 5; Psalm 77 (NIV)
I Chronicles 4:9-10 (NIV)
9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.
Psalm 77:1-2 (NIV)
1 I cried out to God for help: I cried out to God to hear me. 2 When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands and my soul refused to be comforted.
Good morning!
A long time ago, I learned how to tune the world out so I could focus on what I was trying to accomplish. I can be easily distracted if I allow the noises of life to jump ahead of the task at hand. At some point, all of us have to set aside the things that distract and finish what we’ve started.
There were times, I must confess, when I didn’t pay close attention to my children. I remember moments of sheer madness – trying to cook dinner, run a load of laundry, write a paper on the kitchen counter top, while stirring the spaghetti sauce on the stove, and trying to “listen” to the chatter of my three noisy children, all at one time. I covet moments of peace and quiet, when I can give my full attention over to the task at hand. However, when my children were younger, I found those quiet times to be few and far between. I was gone all day to work. In the evenings, I would take a class at a local college, make time to attend weekly choir rehearsal, sit in on a weekly prayer meeting, and shuttle kiddos to and from the ball field. My to-do list seemed to grow with each passing hour. I felt I had to accomplish all of it before I could fall into bed, exhausted from the day that never seemed to end.
My husband Jeff would bring me back to reality, as the children clamored for undivided attention. He would say, “Deb, do you hear what they are saying to you? Stop saying ‘uh-huh’ and pay attention! I don’t think you want to say ‘yes’ to that question.” Once again, I had zoned out, thinking about the ten other things I needed to do. I was not listening carefully, and for all I know, my children were asking if they could go up on the roof of our home and jump off. Have you ever been so busy with the stuff in your life, that you find yourself unwilling to stop and listen to someone who is trying to speak to you?
Jabez knew what it was like to try to gain his mother’s attention. She named her son Jabez because he caused her great pain in labor. Jabez means sorrowful. Can you imagine growing up in a home where your name is a constant reminder of the pain that you so unintentionally caused your parent? Jabez simply wanted to be loved and heard. He did not want to be held responsible for his mother’s pain. Children are like that. We tend to leave them with the impression that they are in our way, especially when we are too busy to pay them any real attention. Every single time I let the stuff of life get in the way of listening to my kids, it was as if I were saying, “Go away. Leave me alone and let Mommy do what she needs to do.” How I regret those moments. What a waste of precious time.
Jabez prayed a simple prayer to the Lord, who understands us better than we understand ourselves. He said, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory. Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” Jabez did not want to cause anyone harm. He just wanted to receive the blessings that only God could give. He wanted to grow in faith and wisdom, and become someone that the Lord would use for kingdom work. God heard the prayer of Jabez, and the scripture tells us He granted his request.
Are you finding yourself just too busy to make time to listen to God today? Do you try to shove Him out of your way, while you accomplish your to-do list? When you make time to pray, do you find yourself falling asleep or letting your mind wander out of sheer boredom or busyness? Are your half-hearted “uh-huhs” to God just that? The Lord wants our undivided attention. He will not jump up and down, like our children sometimes do. His still, small voice can only be heard when we lay aside the things that distract, and focus our hearts completely upon Him. The Lord God Almighty is trying to speak to you today. Are you listening? Will you make time to stop and hear Him speak?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: focus! The Lord is speaking to you today. If you will make some time to listen, He will speak to your heart. When you cry out to God for help today, don’t let your voice be the only thing you hear. The Lord is answering your prayer before the words ever leave your lips. He hears you. Will you make time to listen to Him today?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 07, 2007
God knows you by name!
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 1, 2, 3 (NIV)
I Chronicles 2:1 (NIV)
These were the sons of [Jacob] Israel: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad and Asher.
Philippians 4:3 (NIV)
3 Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the Gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Revelation 3:5 (NIV)
5 He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before my Father and His angels.
Good morning!
Do you like your name? A name is one of the most important things we select for our children. It is a permanent identifier – a recognition tool. Throughout history, people were identified by the family unit in which they live, and were recognized by who their parents, brothers and sisters were. Jeff and I found it challenging to select a name that would follow our children for their entire lives. We took the task seriously, and sought the Lord in naming each of them. The name Rachel means little lamb of God. Benjamin is the son of our right hand. And the name David means beloved son. From the time we discovered we were expecting until that miraculous moment when we held our baby for the very first time, we wondered about what we should name them. We knew that God had called this little life into being – that He had a greater plan for our child to be than we could possibly begin to comprehend or understand. We wanted to get their name right, not just for our child’s sake, but because we knew this baby was a gift from above and deserved a name that the Lord would want them to have.
It is a blessing every Sunday when people call me by my name. During the greeting time when I shake hands with my Faith family that I have come to know and love, there is nothing better than hearing someone say, “Hi Deb. It’s great to see you today.” They know my name! They know who I am and whose I am. Most people know that my husband is one of the pastors at Faith Church. They know that my mother-in-law and father-in-law sit near the front row of the sanctuary every Sunday, so they can see and hear their son as he preaches the Word of God. When my mother spends the weekend with me and I take her to church on Sunday morning, our church people greet her by name. We are known and identified by who our family is. That may be a good or not-so-good thing. More than anything else, I want people to identify me as a child of the living God, born again through the blood of my Savior. When people look at me and say my name, I want them to see Jesus Christ living in me. It is His blood that makes me a part of the forever family of God.
There are moments when I wish the Lord did not know my name, especially when I’ve messed up or said something I instantly regret. Sometimes I tarnish the name of my family because of things I say or do, and I wonder how that makes my “kin” feel. There are moments when I tarnish the good name of the Lord, especially when I show lack of respect for who He is; when I refuse to obey His instruction manual. I confess there have been times when I should have bit my tongue instead of letting it run like wildfire in hateful spurts of emotional madness. Have you ever said something that you instantly regret? Have you ever spoken ill of someone in your family, whether it be someone in your biological family, or someone in your church family? What does it feel like to have someone speak ill words about you?
I heard someone say in church this weekend that “we don’t get to pick our kin.” Families are about as diverse as they can be. Every person has a unique and distinct finger print. We may not look alike, act alike, or think alike, and yet, through the blood, we are all kin, whether we like it or not. I don’t know of a perfect family out there, and yet, I can tell you that my family is so perfect for me. We agree to disagree on many things and sometimes we have a hard time letting go of the scars we leave imprinted on each other’s lives. I have found that blood is thicker than water, and even though I may spar with my family from time to time, if you come after them, this sister is going to rise up and defend her family.
Through Jesus Christ, we are all family through His blood. We are an extraordinarily diverse group of people. Each and every one of us brings a unique and special gift mix to the group. My spirit senses there is a little sibling rivalry going on today within the body of Christ. Blood is thicker than water, and my friends, we need to start acting like the family God created us to be. We are better together and through Jesus Christ, we can spread His love and salvation message around the world.
God knows you by name. He knows your heart. He understands the motives behind everything you say and do. God created you with a purpose and plan. Are you living for Him today? Are you happy to know that He knows who you are, or would you prefer to hide out, avoiding having to look Him in the face? My prayer for you today is that you will find out who you are, whose you are in Christ, and just how precious you are to Him.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: your name to be found in the Lamb’s book of life. Oh yes, God knows you by name. He knows who you are and He invites you today, to come home to your family, who loves you so very much. It is just not the same without you. Blood is thicker than water, and the blood of Christ can change even the hardest heart. You are always welcome in the family of God. Won’t you ask Jesus to come into your heart today?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 1, 2, 3 (NIV)
I Chronicles 2:1 (NIV)
These were the sons of [Jacob] Israel: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad and Asher.
Philippians 4:3 (NIV)
3 Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the Gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Revelation 3:5 (NIV)
5 He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before my Father and His angels.
Good morning!
Do you like your name? A name is one of the most important things we select for our children. It is a permanent identifier – a recognition tool. Throughout history, people were identified by the family unit in which they live, and were recognized by who their parents, brothers and sisters were. Jeff and I found it challenging to select a name that would follow our children for their entire lives. We took the task seriously, and sought the Lord in naming each of them. The name Rachel means little lamb of God. Benjamin is the son of our right hand. And the name David means beloved son. From the time we discovered we were expecting until that miraculous moment when we held our baby for the very first time, we wondered about what we should name them. We knew that God had called this little life into being – that He had a greater plan for our child to be than we could possibly begin to comprehend or understand. We wanted to get their name right, not just for our child’s sake, but because we knew this baby was a gift from above and deserved a name that the Lord would want them to have.
It is a blessing every Sunday when people call me by my name. During the greeting time when I shake hands with my Faith family that I have come to know and love, there is nothing better than hearing someone say, “Hi Deb. It’s great to see you today.” They know my name! They know who I am and whose I am. Most people know that my husband is one of the pastors at Faith Church. They know that my mother-in-law and father-in-law sit near the front row of the sanctuary every Sunday, so they can see and hear their son as he preaches the Word of God. When my mother spends the weekend with me and I take her to church on Sunday morning, our church people greet her by name. We are known and identified by who our family is. That may be a good or not-so-good thing. More than anything else, I want people to identify me as a child of the living God, born again through the blood of my Savior. When people look at me and say my name, I want them to see Jesus Christ living in me. It is His blood that makes me a part of the forever family of God.
There are moments when I wish the Lord did not know my name, especially when I’ve messed up or said something I instantly regret. Sometimes I tarnish the name of my family because of things I say or do, and I wonder how that makes my “kin” feel. There are moments when I tarnish the good name of the Lord, especially when I show lack of respect for who He is; when I refuse to obey His instruction manual. I confess there have been times when I should have bit my tongue instead of letting it run like wildfire in hateful spurts of emotional madness. Have you ever said something that you instantly regret? Have you ever spoken ill of someone in your family, whether it be someone in your biological family, or someone in your church family? What does it feel like to have someone speak ill words about you?
I heard someone say in church this weekend that “we don’t get to pick our kin.” Families are about as diverse as they can be. Every person has a unique and distinct finger print. We may not look alike, act alike, or think alike, and yet, through the blood, we are all kin, whether we like it or not. I don’t know of a perfect family out there, and yet, I can tell you that my family is so perfect for me. We agree to disagree on many things and sometimes we have a hard time letting go of the scars we leave imprinted on each other’s lives. I have found that blood is thicker than water, and even though I may spar with my family from time to time, if you come after them, this sister is going to rise up and defend her family.
Through Jesus Christ, we are all family through His blood. We are an extraordinarily diverse group of people. Each and every one of us brings a unique and special gift mix to the group. My spirit senses there is a little sibling rivalry going on today within the body of Christ. Blood is thicker than water, and my friends, we need to start acting like the family God created us to be. We are better together and through Jesus Christ, we can spread His love and salvation message around the world.
God knows you by name. He knows your heart. He understands the motives behind everything you say and do. God created you with a purpose and plan. Are you living for Him today? Are you happy to know that He knows who you are, or would you prefer to hide out, avoiding having to look Him in the face? My prayer for you today is that you will find out who you are, whose you are in Christ, and just how precious you are to Him.
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: your name to be found in the Lamb’s book of life. Oh yes, God knows you by name. He knows who you are and He invites you today, to come home to your family, who loves you so very much. It is just not the same without you. Blood is thicker than water, and the blood of Christ can change even the hardest heart. You are always welcome in the family of God. Won’t you ask Jesus to come into your heart today?
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 06, 2007
The poorest of the poor
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Kings 24, 25; Psalm 76
2 Kings 25:11-12 (NIV)
11 Nebuzaradan, the commander of the guard, carried into exile the people who remained in the city, along with the rest of the populace and those who had gone over to the king of Babylon. 12 But the commander left behind some of the poorest people of the land to work the vineyards and fields.
Proverbs 13:23 (NIV)
23 A poor man’s field may produce abundant food, but injustice sweeps it away.
Matthew 5:3 (NIV)
3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Good morning!
My mother used to say that her family was the poorest of the poor; yet, they never realized it. In rural Brookhaven, Mississippi, where she grew up, her parents picked cotton for a living. They spent their days sowing and reaping in the fields. My mother was the oldest daughter of seven children. She spent her days helping Grandmother prepare the family meals while watching over her younger siblings as her parents harvested cotton. The evening meal was a treasured part of each day, where conversation was welcomed and plentiful. Their family never complained while eating red beans and rice, sweet potato pie, and thick slices of corn bread every night. If you cooked the same meal everyday for your family, would they be very happy with you? Every Christmas, my mother would hang her siblings tattered stockings by the wood-burning fireplace, hoping to receive a special gift from a mysterious visitor in the middle of the night. The children were delighted to find a large orange in the bottom of their stockings on Christmas morning. That piece of fruit was a rare treat, indeed.
The Great Depression left many families struggling, and my mother’s family was no exception. Some of her happiest memories were spent growing up on the farm in a time when they barely had enough to survive. The children didn’t have toys to play with, so they played with each other instead. Now, that’s a novel idea! Her brothers loved to catch lizards and hang them from their ears, like long, dangly earrings. The girls would scream and run when their mischievous brothers chased them about the yard, threatening to drop a lizard down their backs. Mom did not mind playing hard, breaking a sweat, and getting dirty. It gave her the excuse she needed to go take a dip in the creek bed near their home. The children hung an old tire swing from the outstretched branches of a large pine tree, hovering over the clear, babbling brook. Mom loved to swing across the creek bed, jumping midstream into the deepest part of the water. It is amazing none of them ever drowned, especially when there was no life guard on duty or anyone trained to teach these babies how to swim.
The Israelites found themselves, once again, in utter captivity. Their sinful choices opened the door for evil to penetrate their city. Many were taken into exile. Families were tortured and murdered, while others were made to watch. They were rendered powerless to save their community. What was once a safe haven, sheltered under the umbrella of God’s love, had become a heap of rubble. How quickly things can change. Only a remnant – the poorest people of the land, were left behind to make their way through the desolation.
Mom has said, time and again, that their faith in Jesus Christ, made living worthwhile. He walked with them through every difficult circumstance. Praying for strength and favor was a daily part of their lives. The Lord blessed their home with love. There was always plenty to eat. Grandmother knew how to make a feast from a bare pantry. The children never had anything new to wear – all of their clothing was handed down from second cousins and older siblings. Happiness was not based on their personal possessions. True happiness was a gift of faith, received from the one who understood poverty at its worst. He is the answer. He provides the riches of salvation and abundant living not only in this world, but the next.
The poorest of the poor knew how to look up. Crying out to the Lord for help, He heard their heartfelt prayers, and answered them. Do you know what it means to be poor? Have you ever turned your face from the Lord, only to find yourself in captivity to the things that you thought might bring you happiness? When you have nothing left to hold on to, reach out to Jesus. He can take the worst situations of your life and walk you through them. If you find yourself struggling to survive today, stop and look up! Jesus Christ is waiting to help you. He loves you. He knows where you’ve been, and He holds the key to your future. The things we value in this world cannot even begin to compare with the riches Jesus Christ has offered to all of us.
Are you the poorest of the poor? Cry out to Jesus today, and live!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the rich blessing of placing total faith in Jesus Christ. You may not have a dime in your pocket, but with Jesus in your heart, you are the wealthiest person alive. Let go of the sin that keeps you separated from your Heavenly Father. Christ redeems the poorest of the poor and makes real life worth living.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Kings 24, 25; Psalm 76
2 Kings 25:11-12 (NIV)
11 Nebuzaradan, the commander of the guard, carried into exile the people who remained in the city, along with the rest of the populace and those who had gone over to the king of Babylon. 12 But the commander left behind some of the poorest people of the land to work the vineyards and fields.
Proverbs 13:23 (NIV)
23 A poor man’s field may produce abundant food, but injustice sweeps it away.
Matthew 5:3 (NIV)
3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Good morning!
My mother used to say that her family was the poorest of the poor; yet, they never realized it. In rural Brookhaven, Mississippi, where she grew up, her parents picked cotton for a living. They spent their days sowing and reaping in the fields. My mother was the oldest daughter of seven children. She spent her days helping Grandmother prepare the family meals while watching over her younger siblings as her parents harvested cotton. The evening meal was a treasured part of each day, where conversation was welcomed and plentiful. Their family never complained while eating red beans and rice, sweet potato pie, and thick slices of corn bread every night. If you cooked the same meal everyday for your family, would they be very happy with you? Every Christmas, my mother would hang her siblings tattered stockings by the wood-burning fireplace, hoping to receive a special gift from a mysterious visitor in the middle of the night. The children were delighted to find a large orange in the bottom of their stockings on Christmas morning. That piece of fruit was a rare treat, indeed.
The Great Depression left many families struggling, and my mother’s family was no exception. Some of her happiest memories were spent growing up on the farm in a time when they barely had enough to survive. The children didn’t have toys to play with, so they played with each other instead. Now, that’s a novel idea! Her brothers loved to catch lizards and hang them from their ears, like long, dangly earrings. The girls would scream and run when their mischievous brothers chased them about the yard, threatening to drop a lizard down their backs. Mom did not mind playing hard, breaking a sweat, and getting dirty. It gave her the excuse she needed to go take a dip in the creek bed near their home. The children hung an old tire swing from the outstretched branches of a large pine tree, hovering over the clear, babbling brook. Mom loved to swing across the creek bed, jumping midstream into the deepest part of the water. It is amazing none of them ever drowned, especially when there was no life guard on duty or anyone trained to teach these babies how to swim.
The Israelites found themselves, once again, in utter captivity. Their sinful choices opened the door for evil to penetrate their city. Many were taken into exile. Families were tortured and murdered, while others were made to watch. They were rendered powerless to save their community. What was once a safe haven, sheltered under the umbrella of God’s love, had become a heap of rubble. How quickly things can change. Only a remnant – the poorest people of the land, were left behind to make their way through the desolation.
Mom has said, time and again, that their faith in Jesus Christ, made living worthwhile. He walked with them through every difficult circumstance. Praying for strength and favor was a daily part of their lives. The Lord blessed their home with love. There was always plenty to eat. Grandmother knew how to make a feast from a bare pantry. The children never had anything new to wear – all of their clothing was handed down from second cousins and older siblings. Happiness was not based on their personal possessions. True happiness was a gift of faith, received from the one who understood poverty at its worst. He is the answer. He provides the riches of salvation and abundant living not only in this world, but the next.
The poorest of the poor knew how to look up. Crying out to the Lord for help, He heard their heartfelt prayers, and answered them. Do you know what it means to be poor? Have you ever turned your face from the Lord, only to find yourself in captivity to the things that you thought might bring you happiness? When you have nothing left to hold on to, reach out to Jesus. He can take the worst situations of your life and walk you through them. If you find yourself struggling to survive today, stop and look up! Jesus Christ is waiting to help you. He loves you. He knows where you’ve been, and He holds the key to your future. The things we value in this world cannot even begin to compare with the riches Jesus Christ has offered to all of us.
Are you the poorest of the poor? Cry out to Jesus today, and live!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the rich blessing of placing total faith in Jesus Christ. You may not have a dime in your pocket, but with Jesus in your heart, you are the wealthiest person alive. Let go of the sin that keeps you separated from your Heavenly Father. Christ redeems the poorest of the poor and makes real life worth living.
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 05, 2007
Are your ears tingling?
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Kings 21, 22, 23; Psalm 75
II Kings 21:12-15 (NIV)
12 “Therefore this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I am going to bring such disaster on Jerusalem and Judah that the ears of everyone who hears of it will tingle. 13 I will stretch out over Jerusalem the measuring line used against Samaria and the plumb line used against the house of Ahab. I will wipe out Jerusalem as one wipes a dish, wiping it and turning it upside down. 14 I will forsake the remnant of my inheritance and hand them over to their enemies. They will be looted and plundered by all their foes, 15 because they have done evil in my eyes and have provoked me to anger from the day their forefathers came out of Egypt until this day.”
II Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Good morning!
Our church parsonage sits one house down from a four-way stop. We’ve lived in this house for seven years now, and I can tell you that, based on experience, very few people truly stop at the four-way stop. They kind off slow down and roll through it. Some don’t slow down at all. I’ve seen police patrol the area, and when that happens, motorists tend to try to stop, but not always. I’m sure many tickets are written to drivers who “roll through” the stop signs in our community.
Do you ever try to roll through God’s Word? It’s easy to skip over the parts of scripture that are hard to hear or not easy to understand. We may slow down a bit, take a second look, and then gloss over the tough stuff and get to the scriptures that encourage and comfort us. It’s not easy to read the Word of the Lord when He is provoked to anger. Idolatry seems to be a hot button with the Almighty. He just doesn’t want us to give our time and attention to anything that takes our eyes off of Him, not even for a second.
John Wesley understood this process all too well. So much so, he would literally wake himself up every fifteen minutes at night just to record and confess any sin he might have committed in his subconscious mind while he slept. Thank God there is medication for this sort of thing today, but honestly, when I think about just how easy it is to let our mind wander off in a sinful direction, this humble man of God knew exactly what he was doing.
We live in such a “me-first” society. We want to be first in line at the restaurant after church on Sunday afternoon. We avoid the yield signs along the path. We refuse to come to a full stop even when the large neon signs are flagging us down, screaming "dead end ahead," begging us to stop and turn around. If we do choose to heed the warning and stop where we at, we might have to take a harder look at where we were going in the first place, and most of us just really don’t want to do that. It is easier to gloss over the truth or ignore it entirely. I don’t enjoy being told I’m wrong. It’s painful. It is also a necessary part of my life, and I need to learn to accept rebuke if I truly want to learn to live like my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Young Josiah took his childlike faith and chose to turn things around for his people. He began to repair the mess that his predecessors had so unconscionably left behind. A reign of terror is never easy to clean up, but this kid wasn’t afraid of facing the tough stuff in life. He placed his faith upon the Word of the Lord, and did what was right.
Are your ears tingling today? Is it time to reassess the direction of your life? King Solomon asked the Lord to make a way for repentant sinners, like you and me. If we will humble our hearts, admit our sin, pray for forgiveness, and seek God continually, turning away from the things that separate us from Him, He will hear our prayers, forgive our sin, and heal our land. Friends, it is time to get healed. It is time to live within His umbrella of forgiveness and grace. It is time to yield our hearts completely to the Lord. Are you ready to stop and turn around today?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the strength of young Josiah. If you are willing to stop and turn around, the Lord not only will hear your prayers for help, but He will forgive your sin and heal your heart. You can have abundant life today. Come to church with me this weekend and experience the amazing love of God through His Son, Jesus Christ! I’ll see you at Faith Church!
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Kings 21, 22, 23; Psalm 75
II Kings 21:12-15 (NIV)
12 “Therefore this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I am going to bring such disaster on Jerusalem and Judah that the ears of everyone who hears of it will tingle. 13 I will stretch out over Jerusalem the measuring line used against Samaria and the plumb line used against the house of Ahab. I will wipe out Jerusalem as one wipes a dish, wiping it and turning it upside down. 14 I will forsake the remnant of my inheritance and hand them over to their enemies. They will be looted and plundered by all their foes, 15 because they have done evil in my eyes and have provoked me to anger from the day their forefathers came out of Egypt until this day.”
II Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Good morning!
Our church parsonage sits one house down from a four-way stop. We’ve lived in this house for seven years now, and I can tell you that, based on experience, very few people truly stop at the four-way stop. They kind off slow down and roll through it. Some don’t slow down at all. I’ve seen police patrol the area, and when that happens, motorists tend to try to stop, but not always. I’m sure many tickets are written to drivers who “roll through” the stop signs in our community.
Do you ever try to roll through God’s Word? It’s easy to skip over the parts of scripture that are hard to hear or not easy to understand. We may slow down a bit, take a second look, and then gloss over the tough stuff and get to the scriptures that encourage and comfort us. It’s not easy to read the Word of the Lord when He is provoked to anger. Idolatry seems to be a hot button with the Almighty. He just doesn’t want us to give our time and attention to anything that takes our eyes off of Him, not even for a second.
John Wesley understood this process all too well. So much so, he would literally wake himself up every fifteen minutes at night just to record and confess any sin he might have committed in his subconscious mind while he slept. Thank God there is medication for this sort of thing today, but honestly, when I think about just how easy it is to let our mind wander off in a sinful direction, this humble man of God knew exactly what he was doing.
We live in such a “me-first” society. We want to be first in line at the restaurant after church on Sunday afternoon. We avoid the yield signs along the path. We refuse to come to a full stop even when the large neon signs are flagging us down, screaming "dead end ahead," begging us to stop and turn around. If we do choose to heed the warning and stop where we at, we might have to take a harder look at where we were going in the first place, and most of us just really don’t want to do that. It is easier to gloss over the truth or ignore it entirely. I don’t enjoy being told I’m wrong. It’s painful. It is also a necessary part of my life, and I need to learn to accept rebuke if I truly want to learn to live like my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Young Josiah took his childlike faith and chose to turn things around for his people. He began to repair the mess that his predecessors had so unconscionably left behind. A reign of terror is never easy to clean up, but this kid wasn’t afraid of facing the tough stuff in life. He placed his faith upon the Word of the Lord, and did what was right.
Are your ears tingling today? Is it time to reassess the direction of your life? King Solomon asked the Lord to make a way for repentant sinners, like you and me. If we will humble our hearts, admit our sin, pray for forgiveness, and seek God continually, turning away from the things that separate us from Him, He will hear our prayers, forgive our sin, and heal our land. Friends, it is time to get healed. It is time to live within His umbrella of forgiveness and grace. It is time to yield our hearts completely to the Lord. Are you ready to stop and turn around today?
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: the strength of young Josiah. If you are willing to stop and turn around, the Lord not only will hear your prayers for help, but He will forgive your sin and heal your heart. You can have abundant life today. Come to church with me this weekend and experience the amazing love of God through His Son, Jesus Christ! I’ll see you at Faith Church!
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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, May 04, 2007
The blanket of prayer
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Kings 18, 19, 20
2 Kings 19:14-16a; 31 (NIV)
14 Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the Lord and spread it out before the Lord. 15 And Hezekiah prayed to the Lord: “O Lord, God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. 16 Give ear, O Lord, and hear; open your eyes, O Lord, and see.”
31 For out of Jerusalem will come a remnant, and out of Mount Zion a band of survivors. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
2 Kings 20:4-5a (NIV)
4 Before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the Lord came to him: 5 “Go back and tell Hezekiah, the leader of my people, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you.
Good morning!
Do you like fireworks? I enjoy going to the river with my family at night to watch the light display. We sit under the stars and enjoy the amazing beauty of each firework, as it explodes in the sky above us. I think the best way to observe an evening of fireworks is to take a blanket and spread it out over the hardened and dry ground. By mid-summer, the dirt and rocks are hard and brittle. It is much easier to sit on the ground, if you have a nice, soft blanket to sit on. I personally enjoy laying down on the blanket and simply looking up, so that I can take in each flicker of light in the night sky.
I really like Hezekiah. He was a true prayer warrior. Understanding the power of petitioning the Father for every need, Hezekiah went to the temple to spread it all out at His feet. How often do we go to our churches and places of worship just to sit at the foot of the cross, and lay out our burdens before the only One who can heal and forgive us? The next time you stop to pray, think about taking your heart-felt petitions and shaking them out, like you would a blanket, over the hard and rocky places of your life. Lay yourself down on that blanket of prayer and look up with expectancy. You will find yourself amazed as you delight in seeing the Lord’s light show from up above.
Prayer is such a privilege. Do not let it become a simple daily duty to fulfill. Prayer is intimate relationship with the Father, through the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. He has made a way for us to come into the throne room every day; a place where we can pour out our heart and soul’s desire before Him. There are times when I’m not sure exactly what to pray for. I look at my prayer list, which grows longer every morning, and I am confident that every burden, every need there will be met by my Jesus. Praying for His will in all things is a prayer I delight in. I’m so glad I do not have all the answers. I don’t need them, because I have the only answer that matters. I have Jesus, and He is more than enough for all of us. Are you praying for a lost soul today? There is nothing that breaks my heart more than seeing someone suffer from the consequences of sin. Jesus died for people just like you and me, who struggle with the things that keep us separated from His presence. When we choose to yield our life to Him, as we cry out in faith, “Okay Lord, I’m going to do this your way.” It is in that precious moment of surrender that we begin to see the beauty of His love and how His blood can heal a battered and broken heart. Talk about fireworks! There is nothing more beautiful that receiving complete forgiveness and healing. Prayer is relationship at its best. Holy moments are just waiting to happen. Are you looking up today?
Jesus hears you. He loves you. He will answer your every prayer prayed in faith today. Spread it all out at the foot of the cross. Give Him your every care. Trust Him for the answer. Stand upon His holy Word. Lay on it. Look up and see what the Lord Jesus Christ can do for you!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: fireworks! If you are willing to yield your life completely to the Lord today, His love will take you places you cannot even begin to imagine. Won’t you spread your prayers before the foot of the cross, lay yourself down on them, and look up with expectancy. Have faith and believe that with Jesus Christ, all things are possible!
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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.
Grand Sweep Daily Reading: 2 Kings 18, 19, 20
2 Kings 19:14-16a; 31 (NIV)
14 Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the Lord and spread it out before the Lord. 15 And Hezekiah prayed to the Lord: “O Lord, God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. 16 Give ear, O Lord, and hear; open your eyes, O Lord, and see.”
31 For out of Jerusalem will come a remnant, and out of Mount Zion a band of survivors. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
2 Kings 20:4-5a (NIV)
4 Before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the Lord came to him: 5 “Go back and tell Hezekiah, the leader of my people, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you.
Good morning!
Do you like fireworks? I enjoy going to the river with my family at night to watch the light display. We sit under the stars and enjoy the amazing beauty of each firework, as it explodes in the sky above us. I think the best way to observe an evening of fireworks is to take a blanket and spread it out over the hardened and dry ground. By mid-summer, the dirt and rocks are hard and brittle. It is much easier to sit on the ground, if you have a nice, soft blanket to sit on. I personally enjoy laying down on the blanket and simply looking up, so that I can take in each flicker of light in the night sky.
I really like Hezekiah. He was a true prayer warrior. Understanding the power of petitioning the Father for every need, Hezekiah went to the temple to spread it all out at His feet. How often do we go to our churches and places of worship just to sit at the foot of the cross, and lay out our burdens before the only One who can heal and forgive us? The next time you stop to pray, think about taking your heart-felt petitions and shaking them out, like you would a blanket, over the hard and rocky places of your life. Lay yourself down on that blanket of prayer and look up with expectancy. You will find yourself amazed as you delight in seeing the Lord’s light show from up above.
Prayer is such a privilege. Do not let it become a simple daily duty to fulfill. Prayer is intimate relationship with the Father, through the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. He has made a way for us to come into the throne room every day; a place where we can pour out our heart and soul’s desire before Him. There are times when I’m not sure exactly what to pray for. I look at my prayer list, which grows longer every morning, and I am confident that every burden, every need there will be met by my Jesus. Praying for His will in all things is a prayer I delight in. I’m so glad I do not have all the answers. I don’t need them, because I have the only answer that matters. I have Jesus, and He is more than enough for all of us. Are you praying for a lost soul today? There is nothing that breaks my heart more than seeing someone suffer from the consequences of sin. Jesus died for people just like you and me, who struggle with the things that keep us separated from His presence. When we choose to yield our life to Him, as we cry out in faith, “Okay Lord, I’m going to do this your way.” It is in that precious moment of surrender that we begin to see the beauty of His love and how His blood can heal a battered and broken heart. Talk about fireworks! There is nothing more beautiful that receiving complete forgiveness and healing. Prayer is relationship at its best. Holy moments are just waiting to happen. Are you looking up today?
Jesus hears you. He loves you. He will answer your every prayer prayed in faith today. Spread it all out at the foot of the cross. Give Him your every care. Trust Him for the answer. Stand upon His holy Word. Lay on it. Look up and see what the Lord Jesus Christ can do for you!
Grace and peace,
Deb Spaulding
www.songofdeborah.com
Pray for: fireworks! If you are willing to yield your life completely to the Lord today, His love will take you places you cannot even begin to imagine. Won’t you spread your prayers before the foot of the cross, lay yourself down on them, and look up with expectancy. Have faith and believe that with Jesus Christ, all things are possible!
________________________________
© Copyright 2007, 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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