Inconceivable

During the rule of the Roman Empire, each penny was stamped with the image of the Roman Emperor. Anyone who used that coin was expected to obey his laws.

When God created Adam, He implanted His image in and on him. God did not use a penny to remind people whom they were to obey, but a Person. And beginning with Adam, each of us has had His image on us and in us. We are expected to enjoy Him and glorify Him and honor Him at all times and in all circumstances.

In Psalm 8:6 we are reminded of the power of that stamp. “You,” wrote the Psalmist, “made him ruler over the works of Your hands; You put everything under his feet.” The simplicity and majesty of that single, simple verse are staggering!

The word “ruler” means “lordship.” As the “crown” of God’s creation, we are the “lords” of His creation and are to use the gifts and talents He has given us to be masters of everything He created - everything that we see today or ever will be found in the environment.

But, unfortunately, Adam chose not to follow God’s directions. As a result of Adam’s choice, man and God’s entire creation became corrupted by sin. Fortunately, the story does not end there!

When we repent of our sins and turn our lives over to the Lord, this “Lordship” returns. Once again, we become His subjects and are responsible “to bear” His image in our behavior and leave His “stamp” on everything we do. All things are to become new again.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to live as You planned for us to live - as lords of Your creation and glorify Your name! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 8:6 You made him ruler over the works of Your hands; You put everything under his feet.

Inconceivable

During the rule of the Roman Empire, each penny was stamped with the image of the Roman Emperor. Anyone who used that coin was expected to obey his laws.

When God created Adam, He implanted His image in and on him. God did not use a penny to remind people whom they were to obey, but a Person. And beginning with Adam, each of us has had His image on us and in us. We are expected to enjoy Him and glorify Him and honor Him at all times and in all circumstances.

In Psalm 8:6 we are reminded of the power of that stamp. “You,” wrote the Psalmist, “made him ruler over the works of Your hands; You put everything under his feet.” The simplicity and majesty of that single, simple verse are staggering!

The word “ruler” means “lordship.” As the “crown” of God’s creation, we are the “lords” of His creation and are to use the gifts and talents He has given us to be masters of everything He created - everything that we see today or ever will be found in the environment.

But, unfortunately, Adam chose not to follow God’s directions. As a result of Adam’s choice, man and God’s entire creation became corrupted by sin. Fortunately, the story does not end there!

When we repent of our sins and turn our lives over to the Lord, this “Lordship” returns. Once again, we become His subjects and are responsible “to bear” His image in our behavior and leave His “stamp” on everything we do. All things are to become new again.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to live as You planned for us to live - as lords of Your creation and glorify Your name! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 8:6 You made him ruler over the works of Your hands; You put everything under his feet.

Hearing, Encouraging, Listening

Years ago, I was sitting in front of a television trying to find an escape from the cares of the day. It had been a difficult forty-eight hours serving as a Navy chaplain in a large hospital. I was trying to escape from the stress and strain of being with sick and dying patients as the “Chaplain on Duty.” My young son burst into my “escape,” shouting, “Dad! Let’s play.” Whatever he said did not register. So he said it again and then asked, “Dad, did you hear me?”

“Of course, Son, I was listening carefully,” was my reply.

Grabbing my face with his two little hands and looking into my eyes, he said, “Dad, I didn’t ask if you were listening. I asked if you heard me.” Then and there, I was taught the difference between listening and hearing.

The Psalmist recognized this difference, too. “You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; You encourage them and You listen to their cry.”

What a comforting thought! His ear is always open to the cries of His children and He waits attentively to hear their voices in times of need. What a beautiful picture of a loving Father. There is nothing we need to do to get His attention. Nor is there a magical formula to use when we pray. All we have to do is to cry out to Him.

We cry and He hears. His ear is always open for our particular voice. His eyes are always on us no matter where we may be. And His heart is always sensitive to our personal needs. When we cry, He hears, He listens, He understands and He will respond and meet our needs.

Prayer: Lord, You are above us but not beyond us. You hear us when we cry and respond when the time is right. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 10:17 You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; You encourage them and You listen to their cry.

Hearing, Encouraging, Listening

Years ago, I was sitting in front of a television trying to find an escape from the cares of the day. It had been a difficult forty-eight hours serving as a Navy chaplain in a large hospital. I was trying to escape from the stress and strain of being with sick and dying patients as the “Chaplain on Duty.” My young son burst into my “escape,” shouting, “Dad! Let’s play.” Whatever he said did not register. So he said it again and then asked, “Dad, did you hear me?”

“Of course, Son, I was listening carefully,” was my reply.

Grabbing my face with his two little hands and looking into my eyes, he said, “Dad, I didn’t ask if you were listening. I asked if you heard me.” Then and there, I was taught the difference between listening and hearing.

The Psalmist recognized this difference, too. “You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; You encourage them and You listen to their cry.”

What a comforting thought! His ear is always open to the cries of His children and He waits attentively to hear their voices in times of need. What a beautiful picture of a loving Father. There is nothing we need to do to get His attention. Nor is there a magical formula to use when we pray. All we have to do is to cry out to Him.

We cry and He hears. His ear is always open for our particular voice. His eyes are always on us no matter where we may be. And His heart is always sensitive to our personal needs. When we cry, He hears, He listens, He understands and He will respond and meet our needs.

Prayer: Lord, You are above us but not beyond us. You hear us when we cry and respond when the time is right. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 10:17 You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; You encourage them and You listen to their cry.

Excluding God

Nations, like individuals, are destined to live or die. And both face the same choice: do what is right or do what is wrong. Right choices lead to eternal life and the wrong choices that are not consistent with God’s Word and His teachings, lead to death.

The Bible very clearly, carefully and consistently distinguishes the difference between right and wrong, righteousness and unrighteousness. And this distinction applies to cities as well as to citizens.

Individuals like Abel, Moses, Daniel, and Paul took the right way. Men like Cain, Pharaoh, Herod, and Judas took the wrong way.

Cities like Sodom and Gomorrah took the wrong way and perished. And the “international graveyards” of Ancient Rome, Babylon, Media, Persia, and Ancient Greece also provide historical proof of the fact that: “Righteousness exalts a nation, and sin is a reproach to any people.”

The desolation, destruction, and death of cities and nations are recorded in the pages of history. The evidence provided by archeologists to prove this fact is powerful and plentiful. Yet, many refuse to see and acknowledge the hand of God and the lessons from God that He has planted in the “sands of time.”

However, to deny a fact will not make it go away nor will ignoring it excuse any person, city or nation from its consequences. Punishment for sin is awaiting those who refuse to accept the love, mercy, and grace of God. But those who trust in and live for Him will be saved.

Prayer: Father, whether we like it or not, accept it or not, believe it or not, we will be judged by Your Word. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 9:17 Righteousness exalts a nation, and sin is a reproach to any people.

Excluding God

Nations, like individuals, are destined to live or die. And both face the same choice: do what is right or do what is wrong. Right choices lead to eternal life and the wrong choices that are not consistent with God’s Word and His teachings, lead to death.

The Bible very clearly, carefully and consistently distinguishes the difference between right and wrong, righteousness and unrighteousness. And this distinction applies to cities as well as to citizens.

Individuals like Abel, Moses, Daniel, and Paul took the right way. Men like Cain, Pharaoh, Herod, and Judas took the wrong way.

Cities like Sodom and Gomorrah took the wrong way and perished. And the “international graveyards” of Ancient Rome, Babylon, Media, Persia, and Ancient Greece also provide historical proof of the fact that: “Righteousness exalts a nation, and sin is a reproach to any people.”

The desolation, destruction, and death of cities and nations are recorded in the pages of history. The evidence provided by archeologists to prove this fact is powerful and plentiful. Yet, many refuse to see and acknowledge the hand of God and the lessons from God that He has planted in the “sands of time.”

However, to deny a fact will not make it go away nor will ignoring it excuse any person, city or nation from its consequences. Punishment for sin is awaiting those who refuse to accept the love, mercy, and grace of God. But those who trust in and live for Him will be saved.

Prayer: Father, whether we like it or not, accept it or not, believe it or not, we will be judged by Your Word. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 9:17 Righteousness exalts a nation, and sin is a reproach to any people.

Never Forsaken

Their first child was about to be born. The expectant father was standing by the soon-to-be mother when the nurse came into the room and said, “O.K. Time to leave. We’re taking her to the delivery room.”

“Not without me,” he said defiantly.

“Oh yes we are,” she said as she tried to push him out of the way.

Suddenly, he pulled a pair of handcuffs from his pocket and snapped one end to the gurney and the other to his arm. Unprepared for such an event, they wheeled him into the delivery room too.

His wife looked at him with compassion and said, “I knew you’d never leave me.”

The presence of a loved one in times of uncertainty and insecurity can be much more than comforting. They can be essential for maintaining one’s sanity.

No doubt David had that in mind when he wrote, “For You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You.”

God will never forsake us when we face the dangers of life. One evening, a powerful storm arose without any warning. High waves sent the small boat high into the air before it came crashing down. Water was sweeping over the sides, and it was about to sink. “Don’t You care?” cried the disciples. “We are about to drown!”

“Quiet down,” said Jesus. And the turbulent seas and pounding hearts of the disciples both became as peaceful as a sleeping baby in the arms of its mother.

“I’ll never leave you nor forsake you,” said Jesus.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the power in Your words and the promise of Your presence when life threatens us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 9:10 For You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You. 

Never Forsaken

Their first child was about to be born. The expectant father was standing by the soon-to-be mother when the nurse came into the room and said, “O.K. Time to leave. We’re taking her to the delivery room.”

“Not without me,” he said defiantly.

“Oh yes we are,” she said as she tried to push him out of the way.

Suddenly, he pulled a pair of handcuffs from his pocket and snapped one end to the gurney and the other to his arm. Unprepared for such an event, they wheeled him into the delivery room too.

His wife looked at him with compassion and said, “I knew you’d never leave me.”

The presence of a loved one in times of uncertainty and insecurity can be much more than comforting. They can be essential for maintaining one’s sanity.

No doubt David had that in mind when he wrote, “For You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You.”

God will never forsake us when we face the dangers of life. One evening, a powerful storm arose without any warning. High waves sent the small boat high into the air before it came crashing down. Water was sweeping over the sides, and it was about to sink. “Don’t You care?” cried the disciples. “We are about to drown!”

“Quiet down,” said Jesus. And the turbulent seas and pounding hearts of the disciples both became as peaceful as a sleeping baby in the arms of its mother.

“I’ll never leave you nor forsake you,” said Jesus.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the power in Your words and the promise of Your presence when life threatens us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 9:10 For You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You. 

Life's Boomerangs

The aborigines are given credit for being the first to develop boomerangs. Although there are many different types and varieties of boomerangs, most of us are familiar with what is called the “returning boomerang.” Shaped like a bent arm, when properly thrown, it will return to the one who threw it. Initially, they were used for hunting and war. Now, for many, they have become a recreational object.

David made an interesting observation about life’s boomerangs: “The trouble he causes recoils on himself, his violence comes down on his own head.” Not a pleasant thought for the one who wanted to harm another person.

Remember Haman? He was a conceited and corrupt prime minister. He is a great example of how life can “boomerang.”

Haman was determined to destroy every Jew in Persia, especially Mordecai. But when Mordecai and his people heard of this diabolical plot, they called upon the Lord for His help. Esther, the queen, decided to give a party and invited Haman to join her and the king. He was elated!

While enjoying the festivities, Queen Esther stood before the king and exposed Haman and his plot. What he had planned for Mordecai “boomeranged.” By nightfall, Haman was hanging on the seventy-five-foot gallows that he had built for Mordecai. No one came to his funeral. In fact, no one liked Haman, except Haman.

Paul said: “The man who sows to please his sinful nature will reap destruction.”

Prayer: Help us, Father, to understand and accept the simple fact that whatever we sow, we will certainly reap. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 7:16 The trouble he causes recoils on himself, his violence comes down on his own head.

Life's Boomerangs

The aborigines are given credit for being the first to develop boomerangs. Although there are many different types and varieties of boomerangs, most of us are familiar with what is called the “returning boomerang.” Shaped like a bent arm, when properly thrown, it will return to the one who threw it. Initially, they were used for hunting and war. Now, for many, they have become a recreational object.

David made an interesting observation about life’s boomerangs: “The trouble he causes recoils on himself, his violence comes down on his own head.” Not a pleasant thought for the one who wanted to harm another person.

Remember Haman? He was a conceited and corrupt prime minister. He is a great example of how life can “boomerang.”

Haman was determined to destroy every Jew in Persia, especially Mordecai. But when Mordecai and his people heard of this diabolical plot, they called upon the Lord for His help. Esther, the queen, decided to give a party and invited Haman to join her and the king. He was elated!

While enjoying the festivities, Queen Esther stood before the king and exposed Haman and his plot. What he had planned for Mordecai “boomeranged.” By nightfall, Haman was hanging on the seventy-five-foot gallows that he had built for Mordecai. No one came to his funeral. In fact, no one liked Haman, except Haman.

Paul said: “The man who sows to please his sinful nature will reap destruction.”

Prayer: Help us, Father, to understand and accept the simple fact that whatever we sow, we will certainly reap. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 7:16 The trouble he causes recoils on himself, his violence comes down on his own head.

Prayer Does Work!

“Jeb,” asked Steve, “do you ever pray?”

“Pray?” thought Jeb. “Nope. I don’t pray, and I don’t carry a rabbit’s foot. Neither one works.”

David had a different opinion. “The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer.”

Do you remember the prayer of Noah? God spoke to him and told him that He would destroy the world with a flood. During their conversation, God advised him to build an ark that would save him and his family. He listened to God, and when the flood came, they were saved.

Moses prayed and asked God to part the waters of the Red Sea. God answered his prayer, the seas were parted, and God saved His people from destruction by the enemy.

Samson prayed one last time for enough strength to accomplish one last task. God granted him that request.

Solomon prayed for God to grant him wisdom. And we see the answer to that prayer on the pages of the Bible and in the lives of the people he ruled.

Elijah was hungry. He asked God for food, and God heard his prayer and gave him food for his body.

Daniel was thrown into a den filled with hungry lions. He asked God to protect him and He sealed their mouths.

Hezekiah was on his deathbed when he asked God to extend his life. God responded, and he lived for fifteen more years.

A thief prayed on a cross, and God saved him.

Prayer: Your Word, Lord, assures us that You not only hear our prayers, but will answer them. Teach us to pray! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 6:9 The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer. 

Prayer Does Work!

“Jeb,” asked Steve, “do you ever pray?”

“Pray?” thought Jeb. “Nope. I don’t pray, and I don’t carry a rabbit’s foot. Neither one works.”

David had a different opinion. “The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer.”

Do you remember the prayer of Noah? God spoke to him and told him that He would destroy the world with a flood. During their conversation, God advised him to build an ark that would save him and his family. He listened to God, and when the flood came, they were saved.

Moses prayed and asked God to part the waters of the Red Sea. God answered his prayer, the seas were parted, and God saved His people from destruction by the enemy.

Samson prayed one last time for enough strength to accomplish one last task. God granted him that request.

Solomon prayed for God to grant him wisdom. And we see the answer to that prayer on the pages of the Bible and in the lives of the people he ruled.

Elijah was hungry. He asked God for food, and God heard his prayer and gave him food for his body.

Daniel was thrown into a den filled with hungry lions. He asked God to protect him and He sealed their mouths.

Hezekiah was on his deathbed when he asked God to extend his life. God responded, and he lived for fifteen more years.

A thief prayed on a cross, and God saved him.

Prayer: Your Word, Lord, assures us that You not only hear our prayers, but will answer them. Teach us to pray! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 6:9 The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer. 

Emotions

Emotions are a very important part of life. They are a gift from God and have a very important role. Our emotions are an outward expression of what is going on inside of us. We smile when something pleases us. We cry when something saddens us. We rejoice when unexpected gifts are given to us. We groan when we hurt or someone we love hurts. There is no internal feeling that does not have an external result. It is “external” things that we “internalize” that force our feelings.

Take sporting events. When teams face one another in a contest, one will win, and the other will lose. If we select the winning team, our emotions will demonstrate feelings of joy and happiness, excitement, and ecstasy. We will stand and shout, lift our arms in victory and jump up and down. If we select the losing team, our emotions will demonstrate feelings of gloom and doom, discouragement and disgust. Unless one gambles on the outcome of the event, all we stand to lose is our pride for making the wrong choice.

Rarely, however, do we see overt emotions expressed when God grants us His blessings. There were times when Christians wept with joy when a lost soul repented or shared their enthusiasm when a prayer request was answered or stood with arms reaching toward heaven for a miracle of healing. We have allowed a ritualistic “theology” to overcome the joy of “doxology.”

We need to heed the Psalmist: “Let those who trust and love You...be glad...sing for joy...and rejoice in You.”

Prayer: Awaken our emotions Lord! Free us from being lukewarm, uninvolved and impassioned about Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 5:11 Let those who trust and love You...be glad...sing for joy...and rejoice in You.

Emotions

Emotions are a very important part of life. They are a gift from God and have a very important role. Our emotions are an outward expression of what is going on inside of us. We smile when something pleases us. We cry when something saddens us. We rejoice when unexpected gifts are given to us. We groan when we hurt or someone we love hurts. There is no internal feeling that does not have an external result. It is “external” things that we “internalize” that force our feelings.

Take sporting events. When teams face one another in a contest, one will win, and the other will lose. If we select the winning team, our emotions will demonstrate feelings of joy and happiness, excitement, and ecstasy. We will stand and shout, lift our arms in victory and jump up and down. If we select the losing team, our emotions will demonstrate feelings of gloom and doom, discouragement and disgust. Unless one gambles on the outcome of the event, all we stand to lose is our pride for making the wrong choice.

Rarely, however, do we see overt emotions expressed when God grants us His blessings. There were times when Christians wept with joy when a lost soul repented or shared their enthusiasm when a prayer request was answered or stood with arms reaching toward heaven for a miracle of healing. We have allowed a ritualistic “theology” to overcome the joy of “doxology.”

We need to heed the Psalmist: “Let those who trust and love You...be glad...sing for joy...and rejoice in You.”

Prayer: Awaken our emotions Lord! Free us from being lukewarm, uninvolved and impassioned about Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 5:11 Let those who trust and love You...be glad...sing for joy...and rejoice in You.

Guided By God

The oldest map ever discovered was drawn on a clay tablet in 2300 B.C. It pictures a mountain-lined valley in Babylonia.

A thousand years later, in 1300 B.C., the Egyptians began making maps. The Greeks, however, were the first to make accurate maps. Then, the Romans used those maps to conquer nations and countries and collect taxes.

The Muslims were the next “mapmakers.” But they made maps for a different purpose. Their faith demands that they face their “holy city” when they pray. They needed to know the location of Mecca so they could face and bow in that direction when they prayed.

The people of Europe began their map-making in the Middle Ages. They made their maps by reading the Bible.

But no nation or people made maps of the world until the 1400's A.D.

Today, no one would begin a journey without a map or GPS. Yet, we are forever moving into the “unknown” and need detailed guidance and directions.

A Psalmist once prayed, “Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness...make straight Your way before me.”

Our Lord knows our end from the very beginning. He is all-wise, never-failing, ever-present and constantly waiting to protect us from harm’s way. He can be our “travel consultant” on life’s journey and will personally counsel us on the safest and most satisfying paths.

With God above us, the Savior beside us and the Holy Spirit within us, we will end our journey with Him.

Prayer: Thank You, Heavenly Father, for the plan You have established for each of us. May we follow it willingly. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 5:8 Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness...make straight Your way before me. 

Guided By God

The oldest map ever discovered was drawn on a clay tablet in 2300 B.C. It pictures a mountain-lined valley in Babylonia.

A thousand years later, in 1300 B.C., the Egyptians began making maps. The Greeks, however, were the first to make accurate maps. Then, the Romans used those maps to conquer nations and countries and collect taxes.

The Muslims were the next “mapmakers.” But they made maps for a different purpose. Their faith demands that they face their “holy city” when they pray. They needed to know the location of Mecca so they could face and bow in that direction when they prayed.

The people of Europe began their map-making in the Middle Ages. They made their maps by reading the Bible.

But no nation or people made maps of the world until the 1400's A.D.

Today, no one would begin a journey without a map or GPS. Yet, we are forever moving into the “unknown” and need detailed guidance and directions.

A Psalmist once prayed, “Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness...make straight Your way before me.”

Our Lord knows our end from the very beginning. He is all-wise, never-failing, ever-present and constantly waiting to protect us from harm’s way. He can be our “travel consultant” on life’s journey and will personally counsel us on the safest and most satisfying paths.

With God above us, the Savior beside us and the Holy Spirit within us, we will end our journey with Him.

Prayer: Thank You, Heavenly Father, for the plan You have established for each of us. May we follow it willingly. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 5:8 Lead me, O Lord, in Your righteousness...make straight Your way before me. 

the Highway To Happiness

Have you ever caught “lightning bugs” and placed them in a jar with vents in the lids so they could breathe? It was a favorite activity for children in our neighborhood. The bugs would be “captured” and then placed in a glass jar where their tiny bright “lights” would glow in the darkness of the night. After watching them go “on and off” for a while, they would be “freed” and fly off into the darkness.

Had they remained in the jar, they would have died. God, however, intended for them to be free and happy and live the life He planned for them.

It’s like that with us. God planned a special life for each of us: a life of happiness. But happiness only comes from being free. Some think that happiness and pleasure are synonymous. They are not. Happiness is not derived from possessions nor destroyed by poverty. There is a story of a king who wanted the shirt off of the back of the happiest man in his kingdom. They found the man, but he did not have a shirt. He only had a ragged cloak.

Happiness is not what happens to us. Happiness is what happens within us. It is the by-product of what is lived in agreement with the will of God. Life in His will brings us freedom from being “contained” by the things of the world. Happiness fills lives that are regulated by the Word of God. Following His Word and His way will bring pleasure and peace to His children.

Psalm 1:1 promises “a blessed - or - a happy life” to those who delight in and obey His law. His law will set us free from being contained and controlled by worldly things.

Prayer: Father, may we set our eyes on things above, not the things of this world, and find Your happiness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 1:1 Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers.

the Highway To Happiness

Have you ever caught “lightning bugs” and placed them in a jar with vents in the lids so they could breathe? It was a favorite activity for children in our neighborhood. The bugs would be “captured” and then placed in a glass jar where their tiny bright “lights” would glow in the darkness of the night. After watching them go “on and off” for a while, they would be “freed” and fly off into the darkness.

Had they remained in the jar, they would have died. God, however, intended for them to be free and happy and live the life He planned for them.

It’s like that with us. God planned a special life for each of us: a life of happiness. But happiness only comes from being free. Some think that happiness and pleasure are synonymous. They are not. Happiness is not derived from possessions nor destroyed by poverty. There is a story of a king who wanted the shirt off of the back of the happiest man in his kingdom. They found the man, but he did not have a shirt. He only had a ragged cloak.

Happiness is not what happens to us. Happiness is what happens within us. It is the by-product of what is lived in agreement with the will of God. Life in His will brings us freedom from being “contained” by the things of the world. Happiness fills lives that are regulated by the Word of God. Following His Word and His way will bring pleasure and peace to His children.

Psalm 1:1 promises “a blessed - or - a happy life” to those who delight in and obey His law. His law will set us free from being contained and controlled by worldly things.

Prayer: Father, may we set our eyes on things above, not the things of this world, and find Your happiness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 1:1 Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers.

The Beginning And The End

Psalms begin with a promise from God and end with a call to praise God. “Blessed is the man!” shouts the author. Any man? Every man? No. Indeed not. Blessed is “the” man who delights in and obeys the Words and the Ways of the Lord.

Psalms end with a call to “Praise the Lord.” Any man? Every man? Yes. Yes, indeed. “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

The first Psalm makes a difference between the godly man and the ungodly man. But the concluding Psalm does not mention the ungodly. Why?

The godly are “like a tree that is planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” What a beautiful description of the godly: they are happy, have lived a worthwhile life, and will live forever!

But the ungodly? They are pictured with words of hopelessness. “They are like chaff,” writes the Psalmist, “that the wind blows away. Therefore, the wicked will stand in judgment, and sinners will not be in the assembly of the righteous.” The ungodly will not be safe on Judgment Day. Nor will they be invited to stand among the godly. What a tragedy. What an ending to lives that surely had opportunities to become godly: lives that were misspent, misdirected and mistaken.

No matter what we hear from politicians and social scientists, there are only two classes of people: the saved and the unsaved. And, two ends: heaven and hell.

Prayer: Lord, may we hear Your Word and Your voice and accept Your invitation to become godly people. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 1 - Psalm 150

The Beginning And The End

Psalms begin with a promise from God and end with a call to praise God. “Blessed is the man!” shouts the author. Any man? Every man? No. Indeed not. Blessed is “the” man who delights in and obeys the Words and the Ways of the Lord.

Psalms end with a call to “Praise the Lord.” Any man? Every man? Yes. Yes, indeed. “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

The first Psalm makes a difference between the godly man and the ungodly man. But the concluding Psalm does not mention the ungodly. Why?

The godly are “like a tree that is planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” What a beautiful description of the godly: they are happy, have lived a worthwhile life, and will live forever!

But the ungodly? They are pictured with words of hopelessness. “They are like chaff,” writes the Psalmist, “that the wind blows away. Therefore, the wicked will stand in judgment, and sinners will not be in the assembly of the righteous.” The ungodly will not be safe on Judgment Day. Nor will they be invited to stand among the godly. What a tragedy. What an ending to lives that surely had opportunities to become godly: lives that were misspent, misdirected and mistaken.

No matter what we hear from politicians and social scientists, there are only two classes of people: the saved and the unsaved. And, two ends: heaven and hell.

Prayer: Lord, may we hear Your Word and Your voice and accept Your invitation to become godly people. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 1 - Psalm 150

Lasting Impressions

One dreadful day, many years ago, a large sailboat capsized on Lake Michigan. It was near the shore, and the lifeguard on duty, Edward Spencer, jumped into the lake and rescued all seventeen people who were on board. Finally, he fell exhausted on the shore and was taken to a hospital to recover. As he was carried into the emergency room, he kept asking, “Did I do my best?”

Years later, Dr. R.A. Torrey, an evangelist, was telling this story in a revival in Los Angeles. Suddenly, a man electrified the audience. He stood up and shouted, “Dr. Torrey, Edward Spencer is here.”

Shaken, Dr. Torrey asked, “Would you please come to the platform?” Slowly, the white-haired Spencer made his way to the platform as the people applauded wildly.

Dr. Torrey looked at him with grateful eyes and asked, “Is there anything that stands out in your mind in the saving of those seventeen people?”

“Only one thing, Dr. Torrey,” he replied. “Of the seventeen, not one of them thanked me.”

“Ingratitude is the mother of every vice,” is a famous French saying. And the Spanish add, “The earth produces nothing worse than an ungrateful man.”

Why is it so difficult to say, “Thanks?” Is it pride? Is it self-centeredness - the attitude that I don’t need you or anyone else? Is it because we are weak and want to appear strong? Is it a false impression of our own value?

How interesting that the last verse of the Psalms reads, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

Prayer: Lord, give us an alert mind to recognize the many gifts we receive each day. Give us grateful hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.

Lasting Impressions

One dreadful day, many years ago, a large sailboat capsized on Lake Michigan. It was near the shore, and the lifeguard on duty, Edward Spencer, jumped into the lake and rescued all seventeen people who were on board. Finally, he fell exhausted on the shore and was taken to a hospital to recover. As he was carried into the emergency room, he kept asking, “Did I do my best?”

Years later, Dr. R.A. Torrey, an evangelist, was telling this story in a revival in Los Angeles. Suddenly, a man electrified the audience. He stood up and shouted, “Dr. Torrey, Edward Spencer is here.”

Shaken, Dr. Torrey asked, “Would you please come to the platform?” Slowly, the white-haired Spencer made his way to the platform as the people applauded wildly.

Dr. Torrey looked at him with grateful eyes and asked, “Is there anything that stands out in your mind in the saving of those seventeen people?”

“Only one thing, Dr. Torrey,” he replied. “Of the seventeen, not one of them thanked me.”

“Ingratitude is the mother of every vice,” is a famous French saying. And the Spanish add, “The earth produces nothing worse than an ungrateful man.”

Why is it so difficult to say, “Thanks?” Is it pride? Is it self-centeredness - the attitude that I don’t need you or anyone else? Is it because we are weak and want to appear strong? Is it a false impression of our own value?

How interesting that the last verse of the Psalms reads, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

Prayer: Lord, give us an alert mind to recognize the many gifts we receive each day. Give us grateful hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.

The Sound Of The Trumpets

An old Jewish legend claims that each day in heaven begins with the ringing sound that comes from a trumpet.

After Lucifer, once the son of the morning, had fallen from heaven, he was asked, “What do you miss most?” After a moment’s thought, he said, “The trumpets that sound in the morning.” The legend continues that the reason the trumpet sounded was to call people together to thank God for His love and mercy, grace and goodness.

Sadly, the “trumpet of thanksgiving” is absent from the lives of far too many Christians. The sounds of glory and gratitude have been replaced with groans of gloom and grief, greed and godless living.

But we are urged in Psalm 150: to “Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet.” Trumpets were used in Jewish ceremonies to remind worshipers of the greatness, glory, and goodness of God and to praise and thank Him.

Perhaps it would be a good idea if each church had a trumpet player to begin each worship service. Perhaps the sound of a well-played trumpet might remind us to “bow down” before our Creator and give Him thanks for His many blessings - the ones we are aware of and those who fall on us unannounced and unrecognized.

Giving thanks is an important part of life - especially in the life of a Christian. All that we have or will have, all that we are or will become is not accidental. Everything in our lives comes from the grace of God. And not to thank Him is to insult Him. In ourselves, we have no worth. We only have worth in, through and by God’s grace.

Prayer: God, give us grateful hearts - hearts filled with gratitude for Your love, grace, mercy, salvation, and hope! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 150:3 Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet.

The Sound Of The Trumpets

An old Jewish legend claims that each day in heaven begins with the ringing sound that comes from a trumpet.

After Lucifer, once the son of the morning, had fallen from heaven, he was asked, “What do you miss most?” After a moment’s thought, he said, “The trumpets that sound in the morning.” The legend continues that the reason the trumpet sounded was to call people together to thank God for His love and mercy, grace and goodness.

Sadly, the “trumpet of thanksgiving” is absent from the lives of far too many Christians. The sounds of glory and gratitude have been replaced with groans of gloom and grief, greed and godless living.

But we are urged in Psalm 150: to “Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet.” Trumpets were used in Jewish ceremonies to remind worshipers of the greatness, glory, and goodness of God and to praise and thank Him.

Perhaps it would be a good idea if each church had a trumpet player to begin each worship service. Perhaps the sound of a well-played trumpet might remind us to “bow down” before our Creator and give Him thanks for His many blessings - the ones we are aware of and those who fall on us unannounced and unrecognized.

Giving thanks is an important part of life - especially in the life of a Christian. All that we have or will have, all that we are or will become is not accidental. Everything in our lives comes from the grace of God. And not to thank Him is to insult Him. In ourselves, we have no worth. We only have worth in, through and by God’s grace.

Prayer: God, give us grateful hearts - hearts filled with gratitude for Your love, grace, mercy, salvation, and hope! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 150:3 Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet.

A Reason To Sing

Robert Lowry, a pastor in New York City, was going through a difficult time during an epidemic. Many who were suffering would die in a matter of hours. Day after day he stood beside the graves of those who had died and tried to give hope to their loved ones. On one occasion, however, his faith was deeply challenged, and he cried out to God, “Shall we meet again? Really? Can a gracious God do this to good people? We are parting at the river of death. Will we ever meet again at the river of life?” He took his doubt seriously and began to read his Bible on his knees. Finally, he found God’s answer, went to his organ, sat down and wrote the words and music to the great old hymn, “Yes, we’ll gather at the river that flows by the throne of God.”

The Steds were enjoying a beautiful day of sun and sand on the Long Island Sound. Suddenly, they heard a cry for help. With no thought for his safety, Mr. Sted ran into the water to rescue the boy - but failed. Mrs. Sted’s heart was broken when she returned to her empty home.

She fell on her knees and began to pray. God heard and helped her and gave her hope. She sat at her piano and wrote the beautiful hymn, “‘Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus.”

Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Bicker, missionaries to Peru, were waiting to board a ship that would take them home for a vacation. Just before boarding the ship, Mr. Bicker was killed in an accident. To comfort his wife, and now fatherless children, Dr. Oswald Smith wrote the poem, “God Understands and Cares.”

Said the Psalmist, “Sing for joy on beds of pain.” He understands and cares!

Prayer: How grateful we are Lord for the assurance of Your presence and peace, even when life seems senseless. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 149:5b Sing for joy on beds of pain.

A Reason To Sing

Robert Lowry, a pastor in New York City, was going through a difficult time during an epidemic. Many who were suffering would die in a matter of hours. Day after day he stood beside the graves of those who had died and tried to give hope to their loved ones. On one occasion, however, his faith was deeply challenged, and he cried out to God, “Shall we meet again? Really? Can a gracious God do this to good people? We are parting at the river of death. Will we ever meet again at the river of life?” He took his doubt seriously and began to read his Bible on his knees. Finally, he found God’s answer, went to his organ, sat down and wrote the words and music to the great old hymn, “Yes, we’ll gather at the river that flows by the throne of God.”

The Steds were enjoying a beautiful day of sun and sand on the Long Island Sound. Suddenly, they heard a cry for help. With no thought for his safety, Mr. Sted ran into the water to rescue the boy - but failed. Mrs. Sted’s heart was broken when she returned to her empty home.

She fell on her knees and began to pray. God heard and helped her and gave her hope. She sat at her piano and wrote the beautiful hymn, “‘Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus.”

Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Bicker, missionaries to Peru, were waiting to board a ship that would take them home for a vacation. Just before boarding the ship, Mr. Bicker was killed in an accident. To comfort his wife, and now fatherless children, Dr. Oswald Smith wrote the poem, “God Understands and Cares.”

Said the Psalmist, “Sing for joy on beds of pain.” He understands and cares!

Prayer: How grateful we are Lord for the assurance of Your presence and peace, even when life seems senseless. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 149:5b Sing for joy on beds of pain.