TO GOD BE THE GLORY
TO GOD BE THE GLORY
For Personal Devotions ~ Published Bi-Monthly
All Photos Royalty Free Courtesy Pixabay.com or Pexels.com
INTRO:
Sin is an awful thing. And we all live under the weight of it; well, except for those whose consciences are seared and burnt beyond repair. God help those precious folks. Yes, they too, are precious to God. But this world is such a dark place because it’s under satan’s rule. He has blinded the minds of us all.
This was NOT God’s intent. At the beginning of creation, He gave all authority to Adam and Even to subdue the earth and take dominion over it. But Adam blew it. He gave away his authority and Jesus had to come to our world and buy us back from that tragic failure.
Now, all of us have access to God. But we have to be willing to humble ourselves and receive His forgiveness, and ask Him to walk with us each day without compromise. We now have an opportunity to receive God’s blessings and work for a new boss. But the choice is ours; a choice that affects our eternity. So, what have you done with Jesus?
TEXT:
Romans 6:23; (AMPC).
"For the wages which sin pays is death, but the [bountiful] free gift of God is eternal life through (in union with) Jesus Christ our Lord."
Proverbs 2:20; (AMP).
"So you will walk in the way of good men [that is, those of personal integrity, moral courage and honorable character], And keep to the paths of the righteous."
No Compromise
I walked a road of safety,
fully cleansed and committed to God.
And nothing there could touch me
as I’d see Him smile and nod.
I committed all my ways to Him,
and He was committed to me.
But then I went out on my own,
‘til His face I could not see.
The years grew so much longer
and my commitment vanished away.
I compromised everything to the world;
more and more with each passing day.
Soon my life in the Savior was empty.
I'd used it for the lure of my sin.
But in my heart a voice still said
I'd not be forsaken by Him.
My sins grew so much stronger
that they broke my body in pain
and ruined my pride in Jesus
‘til it filled me with my shame.
To be like Jesus, showing forth His love
was something I could no longer claim.
It hurt me to know that I'd failed Him
and tarnished His wonderful name.
I longed for the days when my Savior
walked with me in fellowship sweet.
I wanted Him back in my life;
to be His and be made complete.
So back to the alter of mercy
to the humble beginnings I knew,
I went with a broken heart
seeking His forgiveness anew.
I cried at the altar of Mercy,
“Change my heart, oh God, once more.
Purge me with some of your hyssop;
and forgive me, oh Lord, in full.
Renew within me Your spirit;
wash me clean and pure by your love.
Take my yielded heart and mend it,
by Your precious power from above.”
My will is to walk the road again,
that goes the way You’ve gone.
It doesn't matter where I've been
or where erring steps have trod.
The only thing that matters now
is being where You are,
and knowing that forever more
I’m safe in the arms of God.
©rdouglasveer, 04/2000
INTRO:
With Labor Day upon us once again, we turn our thoughts toward the value of work. There’s been a growing trend over the past few decades in which people have lost the desire to work hard, taking pride in a job well done. People have cashed in their work ethics for “me time.” What’s so great about work, anyway?
Going to work and giving one’s best gives a person a sense of purpose and undergirds one’s dignity. It is also a way to give back with time and/or finances. It benefits others in many different ways.
Work is also a way to honor God. But we should be careful not fill our days with “busy work.” Rather, God needs people who are intentional about doing His will. Jesus said we must deny ourselves and follow Him, (see Matthew 16:24-26). That’s the beginning of everything.
So, how are you filling your time? Have you asked the Lord what He has created you to do? If you’ve communed with Him and have received His answer, you’ll be well on your way to discovering who He’s created you to become.
TEXT:
Matthew 16:24-26; (NKJV).
24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?
Lord, Use Me to Minister
Lord, what am I to do today?
I'm just so covered up.
I've got to get my neighbor straight
and lots of other stuff.
The world is in an awful mess.
It's falling all apart.
I just don't understand mankind.
Oh, he has such a wicked heart.
And You, oh God . . . want me to use
my time to find a mirror?
What was it that You said to me?
"In there, I’ll see an error."
But, Lord, don't You remember me?
Don't You know who I am?
I'm born-again and go to church.
I've been saved since I was ten.
But Lord . . . is that one really me?
The image in the glass?
I thought that I was spiritual.
A regular coup de grace.
But the image says I'll need to die
before I'll ever see
the thrill of working in Your fields . . .
Your fields of ministry.
Then change me Lord, and teach me how
You want my life to be,
that I may serve from this day on
in Christian Ministry.
Give me the thrill of knowing, Lord,
that I have had a hand
in seeing others find their way
into Your promised land.
©rdouglasveer, date unknown
INTRO:
As Christians, we have an adversary. He is known as the serpent, the devil, old slew-foot, or satan. One of his favorite tools is discouragement. He is always whispering words of defeat into our minds. If we remained steeped in the Bible and prayed up, we can sidestep his influence. But when we drift away from our close relationship with the Lord, that’s usually when the enemy of our souls steps in.
The Lord encouraged the Israelites through the prophet, Isaiah. The commentary covering Isaiah 43 says, “This chapter looks toward the deliverance of God’s people. But it also looks through that and beyond it to the great work of man’s redemption by the lord, Jesus. God has gone to great lengths to provide salvation for the lost world of men. His love is such that even while they are sinners, He continues to care for them and urge upon them the necessity for repentance.”
God did this for us because we are valuable to Him. He believes it! You must believe it, too.
TEXT:
Isaiah 43:1, 2, 4b (NLT).
“1 But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. 2 When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. 4 . . . because you are precious to me. You are honored, and I love you.”
On the Road Again
"On the road again . . ."
was a phrase I used to say,
singing at a swanky club
or in a cheap café.
Did it really matter where
I'd sing, or sleep, or go?
No, because I didn’t care
that my worth was very low.
"Who I am," was plastic.
A “make believe”, no doubt,
‘cause, "You are just a nobody,"
was what the devil would shout.
But oh, the road grew weary
and the way was always dark.
And it didn't really matter
‘cause I had a loser’s heart.
So the devil had his say so
and my life was ruled by him.
He'd kick me out and holler,
"Git goin'. Hit the road again!"
He’d say that I was worthless
and I'd buy it every time,
‘til the day that I saw Jesus
standing on that road of mine.
With a glow of love around Him;
And both arms held out to me.
"Come, draw near. Be My child.
You are valuable to Me."
Now He reassures me daily
that I’m worthwhile to Him.
And the road I walk is holy,
because Jesus lives within.
©RdouglasVeer July 30/03
INTRO:
Did you know that God is not religious. He isn’t even interested in religion. Jesus didn’t come to earth to set up shrines and lead people in empty rituals. He wasn’t even about rules and regulations. He, Himself broke His own laws at times, when the lives of people were more important. For example, He elected to heal people on the Sabbath. When questioned He responded, “. . . The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath,” (Mark 2:27; NIV).
The God of the universe is much more interested in relationship. He wants to know you and me. And he desires that we get to know Him. We do that by reading His word and carrying out what we find there. We can also know God in a deeper way through prayer. It’s so easy, even a novice can do it. Prayer is simply talking to God just like you’d speak to a respected friend.
Did you look for Him today in your quiet time?
TEXT:
James 4:8a; (GNT).
“Come near to God, and he will come near to you . . .”
The Making of a Man
I cannot count the Sundays
that I have been to church . . .
The offering plate comes to me
and I give . . . (but not if it hurts).
I'm satisfied with my own life;
I have no sense of loss.
But the way the preacher preaches . . .
I wonder . . . have I counted the cost?
I don't see Jesus as he does.
I just don't know what to say . . .
I wonder what is in me,
that keeps me bound this way?
He speaks of joy in obedience,
and laying of my life down,
to win one day in glory,
to place at His feet . . . a crown.
I feel there's something I'm missing,
but I want it to be mine,
if I'm to know the joys of Heaven,
and languish in His presence sublime.
Oh God, I want to know You
and what You want me to be,
even if the price You require
is to give my all to Thee.
Burn out my self-sufficiency.
Burn out my pride and shame,
and set my life afire
by the fuel of Jesus' name.
Oh God, consume my being.
Make me the work of Your hand.
Destroy the will within me,
to believe in the self-made man.
Cover me with ashes
to remember evermore,
that sufficient I will never be,
without You, Jesus, my source.
©rdouglasVeer 11/03
INTRO:
God’s creation is magnificent. Every time I venture outside, I can’t help but be struck by the beauty of nature that surrounds me. My heart becomes filled with delight which leads me to worship our God.
While our aim is to worship the Lord, there are religions out there that actually worship nature. They bow down to the trees and the wildlife in all of its surrounding beauty yet they are too blind to look past the creation to behold the Creator. What a shame.
Such people are just a breath away from realizing that without God, the canvas of life would be blank. And more than that: without God, we ourselves would not exist.
Yes, God created this world for us to enjoy, moreover, He created us for His enjoyment. Pause, and think of that.
TEXT:
Psalm 8:3-9; (NLT).
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
A TASTE OF BEAUTY
So flocks the brilliant butterfly
upon the gentle stem
which holds the nectar of the dainty flower.
As silently, invisibly
doth beat the gentle wing
suspending it with tireless, gentle power.
Who but a God of wonders would
create one such as this
to give the world, a taste of beauty such,
that in His love for man would He
share such a majesty
to show the wonder of His love for us.
©rdouglasveer 02/28/2021
INTRO:
God’s creation is truly magnificent. We encounter our world every day but so often, we become oblivious to the beauty that surrounds us.
Genesis chapter one tells how God created the heavens and the earth in six days. First, He created the light and separated it from the darkness. Next, He separated the waters of the heavens from the waters of the earth. On the third day, He commanded dry land to emerge with its plants, and trees, and seed-bearing fruit. On the fourth day, God set lights in the sky to light the earth and to govern the day and night. Next, He filled the waters with fish and the sky with birds of every kind. On the sixth day, God produced all sorts of animals, each able to produce offspring of the same kind. And God saw that it was good.
But God saved the best for last. On the sixth day He created Adam and Eve and told them to be fruitful and multiply. And for six millenniums, we have done just that.
Out of all of creation, we are God’s crowning glory. May we find a revelation of how special we are to His heart. We know it’s true because one day, God sent His Son to redeem us. He paid a great price for us. It was costly and expensive. Yes, Jesus was the “poem of God’s heart” that He lovingly wrote to us. Praise His name forever.
TEXT:
Genesis 1:26, 27; (NLT).
“Then God said, ‘Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground.’ So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
A Poem
Oh, how the mighty hand of God
created everything.
The trees, the flowers, the flowing brooks,
the birds, and the songs they sing.
He gave us stars to light the night
and a sun to warm the day.
And then to guide us through the dark,
a moon to light our way.
Oh, how His wonders do surround us
if we’ll take the time to see
how beautiful He made His world
to share with you and me.
Yes, flowers, birds, and dewdrops, too,
with songs only they can sing
created He, to bless us with
a world only He could bring.
But as He watched His final work,
the woman and the man,
created He, our wondrous God,
a gift, as only His love can.
Within the breathing breast He put
a heart, like His alone.
And there within the heart God wrote
to speak to us a poem.
With His tender words of love
could God alone impart,
and created He, this tender gift,
His poem . . . of the heart.
©rdouglasveer; 2021
INTRO:
There’s an old saying: “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” While we do inherit our parents’ genes we also inherit their behaviors and the way they “model” themselves. There are many Bible verses that encourage us to walk uprightly, with integrity, not only for our good outcomes but for our children as well. Proverbs 20:7 says, “The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them,” (NLT).
Many homes today are missing either a Father or a Father’s good character. If you are a dad, please consider taking an inventory of your life. Maybe you don’t know God but maybe you do; it’s just that you’ve fallen away from Him. It’s up to you to realize you can break the cycle. You can begin serving the Lord, today. And by doing so, you will make a tremendous, positive difference in your family life. Joshua was determined to serve God: “. . . as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” (Joshua 24:15b; KJV). So, what about you?
Need some advice? God wants you to grow wise so you can live a blessed, abundant life. Look for His counsel daily through His Word. Then bring up your children with the same principles. They will thank you for it. Here is a Father’s instruction from Proverbs 4:1-9, (TPT).
1 Listen to my correction, my sons, for I speak to you as your father. Let discernment enter your heart and you will grow wise with the understanding I impart.
2 My revelation-truth is a gift to you, so remain faithful to my instruction.
3 For I, too, was once the delight of my father and cherished by my mother—their beloved child.
4 Then my father taught me, saying, “Never forget my words. If you do everything that I teach you, you will reign in life.”
5 So make wisdom your quest—search for the revelation of life’s meaning. Don’t let what I say go in one ear and out the other.
6 Stick with wisdom and she will stick to you, protecting you throughout your days. She will rescue all those who passionately listen to her voice.
7 Wisdom is the most valuable commodity—so buy it! Revelation-knowledge is what you need—so invest in it!
8 Wisdom will exalt you when you exalt her truth. She will lead you to honor and favor when you live your life by her insights.
9 You will be adorned with beauty and grace, and wisdom’s glory will wrap itself around you, making you victorious in the race.
TEXT:
Proverbs 4:1; (TPT).
“Listen to my correction, my sons, for I speak to you as your father. Let discernment enter your heart and you will grow wise with the understanding I impart.”
For Dads Only
Three-hundred and sixty-five days a year
there are birthdays, Christmas, and other days of cheer.
It seems as if there’s always something to do
to remember me, or remember you.
Fourth-of-July or Easter or Lent;
there are always presents or cards to be sent.
And sometimes it’s not a yearly event
such as leap-year, to tell us where four years have went.
Presidential birthdays are found there too,
and the calendar reminds us of what celebrating to do.
New-year and Halloween or the first day of Spring
are some of the seasons we find reason to sing.
There are songs about Mothers, and even some poems
but I don’t want you, Father, to feel all alone
because this day is yours and I am so glad.
I’m proud and I’m happy to call you my Dad.
I hope you enjoy every minute
celebrating this Father’s Day
©rdouglasVeer-Year Unknown
INTRO:
Peace can be illusive. We get wrapped up in the cares of this world and we forget that we don’t have to continually strive. We forget that we can let Jesus carry our burdens. We forget that we can rest in the Lord and trust Him for what we need instead of trying to make everything happen in our own strength.
Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you . . .” Matthew 11:29a; (NIV). What does that mean? The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines “yoke” as follows: “a wooden bar or frame by which two draft animals (such as oxen) are joined at the heads or necks for working together.” When we slip into a “yoke” with Jesus, we are joining our life with His and we can then “pull the load together.” Is there anyone more loving and more qualified to team up with besides the God of the universe?
So, go ahead and rest; relax; know that God’s “got this.” Trust in Him. “Pile your troubles on God’s shoulders— he’ll carry your load, he’ll help you out. He’ll never let good people topple into ruin,” (Psalm 55:22; MSG).
TEXT:
Matthew 11:29; (TPT).
“Simply join your life with mine. Learn my ways and you’ll discover that I’m gentle, humble, easy to please. You will find refreshment and rest in me.”
Beneath the Sod
Over the horizon a new dawn was breaking,
kissing the world with fresh dew and making
the used up yesterday, flee into the past
and you, my friend, didn’t even have to ask.
Then up came the sun to brighten the day,
chasing the shadows of yesterday.
With it the promise that all would be new
for whoever wanted it, and that includes you.
Oh what a joy is yours to be had,
offered to each little girl and each lad,
driving all worries far into the past.
And no one, not anyone, has to be last.
Its not only offered to those who are swift,
for God is the Giver, and His Son is the gift.
If you accept His offer of Grace,
you’ll find that His Peace will come and replace . . .
. . . the worries that you, once used to have
because God will have sent them all into the past.
Then comfort will follow Him into your life
as God Himself will vanquish your strife.
So, please give your life to the Son of God
before they lay you beneath the sod.
He’s waiting to answer if you’ll call His name
because everyone who calls is treated the same,
and the peace that you’ve wanted will be yours at last.
My friend . . . all you need do is ask.
©rdouglasVeer 10/11/2023
INTRO:
Some folks may wonder what the difference is between Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day. The two occasions might seem quite similar because they both honor the military, but actually, the two patriotic holidays are quite different.
Veterans Day, a federal holiday that falls on November 11, is designated as a day to honor the more than 19 million men and women who have served or do actively serve in the U.S. military.
Memorial Day, which is commemorated on the last Monday in May, honors service members who have died in military service to the nation. The holiday began in the post-Civil War era, when citizens would informally place spring flower memorials on the graves of fallen soldiers, (See https://www.uso.org/stories/2522-understanding-the-difference-of-memorial-day-vs-veterans-day).
Today, we feature a poem from ReadGoodPoems.com. The lyrics to this poem describe so wonderfully the sentiment of our fallen heroes that we wanted to share these words with you. God bless our many soldiers who fought and died for this great country called America.
TEXT:
John 15:13; (NIV).
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
A Soldier's Prayer For Memorial Day
Dear Lord above, hear my prayer,
For those who fought, but are not here.
Bless their souls, in the afterglow,
In your loving arms, let their spirits grow.
For the comrades lost in the heat of the fight,
In the shadows of darkness, in the silent night.
Bless their souls, in the celestial flight,
In the realm of peace, where there is no plight.
In the hallowed ground, where heroes repose,
A soldier's prayer; the wind softly blows.
Grant them rest, and solace profound,
In your loving arms, may peace abound.
Their sacrifice, a prayer eternally heard,
In the presence of angels, in your holy Word.
A soldier's prayer, for the brave and true,
In the tapestry of remembrance, forever anew.
Source: https://readgoodpoems.com/memorial-day-christian-poems/
Notes on Memorial Day Christian Poems:
These Memorial Day Christian poems are a powerful reminder of the sacrifice made by those who have fought for our freedom. They also serve as a reflection on the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made for us. Let us honor and remember all who have given their lives for our country.
INTRO:
There is a wonderful passage in Proverbs chapter 31 that describes the character of a wife and mother. While there are certain pockets of pious, religious thinkers out there who believe women are of no value and subject to a man’s authority, the Bible values and praises women. Here is what Solomon wrote in Proverbs:
“10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. 11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. 12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. 13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. 14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. 15 She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. 16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. 17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. 18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. 19 In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. 20 She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. 21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. 22 She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. 23 Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. 24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. 25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. 26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. 28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” 30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. 31 Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate,” (NIV).
Today’s poem is written from the perspective of a child. How can we as a society produce good, upright people with fine character? By raising them in a home with strong parents of good character, because like the child in the poem says, “I have so many things to learn that I don’t yet understand.”
Today we honor mothers everywhere; that they might be encouraged as they go about tending to their households and raising their families.
Walk With Me, Mama
Walk along side me, Mama
and hold my little hand
I have so many things to learn that
I don’t understand
Teach me things to keep me safe
from the dangers everyday.
Show me how to do my best
at home, at school, at play.
Every child needs a gentle hand
to guide them as they grow.
So walk along side me, Mama.
We have a long way to go.
Source:
https://www.craftymorning.com/free-mothers-day-poem-printables/
INTRO:
Can people really change? The Bible says it’s not only possible but it’s expected of those who are born-again. In fact, 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new,” (KJV). If all things become new, we are talking about a complete metamorphosis that isn’t reserved just for butterflies. The word “butterfly” is not found in the Bible but the word “transformation” Is. Strongs Concordance describes it this way: to transform (literally or figuratively, “metamorphose”); change, transfigure, transform. So when the Bible says we are to be transformed, it is really saying God wants to take our flawed and faulty souls and change us into creatures of beauty, wholly fit to be the bride of Christ when His work in us is finished. Looking at those pretty, multi-colored wings, I find great hope. And in my darkest hour, I know God’s promises will come true, worries will end, change will come to pass and better, brighter days lay ahead. Yes, He will complete the good work He has started in me.
TEXT:
Romans 12:2a; (NKJV).
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind . . .”
2 Corinthians 3:18; (TLB).
“But we Christians have no veil over our faces; we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him.”
Philippians 1:6; (ERV).
“I am sure that the good work God began in you will continue until he completes it on the day when Jesus Christ comes again.”
A Butterfly
I just looked at a butterfly
with wings so fragile and fair.
It’s hard to believe that a heart once beat
for the worm that was once living there!
The dainty wings, so translucent are
by far much more than I
could ever hope to see man make
beneath this glorious sky.
Not only earthbound in our strength
but in our mind as well.
For we can n‘er unlock the secrets
that God alone could tell.
A worm, a worm, that hardly moves.
Unpleasant is he, at best.
Yet there on the daintiest gossamer wings,
it sails from east to west.
A thousand miles and back again.
Ah, such is life for I,
when God’s own holy hand touches me,
taking me to His home on high.
Then with His heavenly angel band,
we’ll come to fight the war;
the “War of the Ages”: God against sin,
and earthbound I’ll be no more.
Then heaven-ward again I’ll go,
just like the butterfly,
changed forever, never again
to be a worm, will I . . .
rdouglasVeer 3/29/1999
INTRO:
We need to get to a place where we hunger and thirst after righteousness. If we don’t have an appetite for the things of God, let that be a red flag that something is wrong. At that point we must choose to apply our will to seek after the Lord in prayer. We must ask Him to forgive us for neglecting Him, cleanse us from our sins of apathy, and fill us with His Spirit so that we can once again rightly serve God. Nothing less will do. Paul reminds us that “. . . when I am weak, then I am strong,” (2 Corinthians 12:10; NIV). Therefore, we need to stay strong in the power of the Holy spirit and not let ourselves slip back into our old ways. John said it so simply: “He must increase, but I must decrease,” (3:30; KJV). While salvation is a free gift, we can’t expect God to do everything for us. We must choose to walk in His indwelling power each day. Yes, it’s a choice.
TEXT:
Ephesians 5:17-19; (NLT).
“Don’t act thoughtlessly, but try to find out and do whatever the Lord wants you to. Don’t drink too much wine, for many evils lie along that path; be filled instead with the Holy Spirit and controlled by him. Talk with each other much about the Lord, quoting psalms and hymns and singing sacred songs, making music in your hearts to the Lord.”
The Indwelling Power
God has sent Jesus to save me,
and I have invited Him in.
Then why does my spirit continue
walking and living in sin?
Wandering onward in sorrow,
my failures reveal waves of shame.
I think that life is just hopeless,
Will I ever be free from my pain?
Oh man of the earth can't you see it?
Your flesh is always in charge.
Why do I have such a small space,
and your flesh, a place that's so large?
Your flesh loves the sin of the worldly,
but self cannot be satisfied.
T’will stain you with the shame of your actions;
stains impossible to hide.
You’ll devour and demand even more sin,
and the larger it grows in your breast,
there’ll be no power to stop it,
And you’ll never have time to take rest.
Now, the fighting, the struggling, the losing;
don't you get tired of it all?
While you're trying to walk you are stumbling.
When you try to run you just fall.
The failures that keep you distracted;
they're part of the enemy’s plan.
He wants you to bow to his spirit
in defeat, just as long as he can.
But you know you belong to the Father.
He's the Victor of spiritual war.
It's not only bread that you live by.
God has given you, oh, so much more.
If you lay down the baggage you carry
of selfishness, pride, and of lust,
then the spirit of God can come fill you,
and give you a power you can trust.
You can trust Him to fight all your battles.
You can trust Him to be your best friend.
You can trust Him to keep you from falling.
He will fight for you right to the end.
No it won't be the end of your battles.
You will probably fight evermore.
But with God’s holy spirit within you,
you’ll have already won this old war.
The choice is yours now dear pilgrim
to walk in the draw of the flesh,
or be filled with God’s holy spirit
with a power divine, full and fresh.
The suffering from guilt will be over.
Together with His spirit you’ll be one.
So why don't you turn to the Father,
and say, “Holy spirit, now come?”
“The self-man I’ll no longer treasure.
He'll be my master no more.
Now, I’ll yield to the power of the spirit.
Oh, fill me with Thyself evermore!”
© rdouglasVeer 9/6/2005
INTRO:
What is a shepherd? Very simply, it is a person who tends to sheep. But if we look more closely, we see the principles shepherds practice. First of all, they care for the sheep; they protect them, ensure their safety and tend to their wounds and broken bones should they wander into trouble before they can be caught. Second, they guide them to good grazing land and fresh water so they may thrive. Third, the shepherd seeks those who have become lost until He finds them.
The Bible shows us these and other characteristics attributed to Jesus. As believers, He cares for us, protects us, and keeps us safe as long as we remain under His umbrella of safety. Second, He guides us in life; He opens doors of provision and blessing and He leads us into the presence of the Holy Spirit, that we might drink in His marvelous goodness. Third, if one of us should become lost, He leaves the ninety-nine and comes looking for the one.
In life, Jesus is our Shepherd if we are willing to walk with Him. Don’t you know God wants to protect you and bless you? Don’t you know He cares for you deeply, so much so that He laid down His life for you and me? As Easter approaches, let us thank God for all He has done for us!
TEXT:
Psalm 23; (TLB).
“Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need! He lets me rest in the meadow grass and leads me beside the quiet streams. He gives me new strength. He helps me do what honors him the most. Even when walking through the dark valley of death I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me, guarding, guiding all the way. You provide delicious food for me in the presence of my enemies. You have welcomed me as your guest; blessings overflow! Your goodness and unfailing kindness shall be with me all of my life, and afterwards I will live with you forever in your home.”
Luke 15:3, 4; (TLB).
“So Jesus used this illustration: “If you had a hundred sheep and one of them strayed away and was lost in the wilderness, wouldn’t you leave the ninety-nine others to go and search for the lost one until you found it?”
He Leads Me Beside Still Waters
He leads me beside still waters.
He restoreth, restoreth my soul.
He leads me beside still waters.
He maketh, He maketh me whole.
Green pastures He prepares, for me,
beside the waters so still,
where I lay down in His sweet peace,
and learn how to do His will.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restoreth, restoreth my soul.
He leads me beside still waters.
He maketh, He maketh me whole.
Through the valley of the shadow of death,
He helps me not be afraid,
and in the presence of mine enemy,
a table before me He lays.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restoreth, restoreth my soul.
He leads me beside still waters.
He maketh, He maketh me whole.
My God, I will love you forever,
because You have first loved me.
You have given me a future and a hope,
And beside You, forever I’ll be.
You lead me beside still waters.
You completely restore my soul.
You lead me beside still waters.
You have made me perfectly whole.
rdouglasveer ©date unknown
INTRO:
Dictionary.com defines the word, Pastor, as a minister or priest in charge of a church, or a person having spiritual care of a number of persons; he is one who serves others. It may seem like a cushy job in that pastors seem to only work Sundays and Wednesday nights, but according to Tumi.org, 1,500 pastors leave the ministry permanently each month and 7,000 churches close each year in America. Wow. It would be interesting to study why these numbers are so high. There may be many reasons pastors quit. They could be retiring; some might be ill; others may have passed away. But discouragement must also play a role. The question is, why do people become pastors in the first place?
Thank goodness, many are called by God and truly want to serve. They do a good job and spend their whole lives doing it. But some take on the position to gain job security, or perhaps to be esteemed by others. Like the character in our poem today, they see themselves as high and lifted up while at the same time, the people's need are neglected. That kind of performance leads to failure and burn out, in any career by the way . . . but in the ministry, many flocks of people suffer the consequences, not just the Shepherd. What ever your calling in life, seek God about it first. If it is meant to be, He will certainly equip you and strengthen you for each part of the journey.
TEXT:
Jeremiah 29:11; (NIV).
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
I Peter 5:1-4; (AMP).
“Therefore, I strongly urge the elders among you [pastors, spiritual leaders of the church], as a fellow elder and as an eyewitness [called to testify] of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory that is to be revealed: shepherd and guide and protect the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not [motivated] for shameful gain, but with wholehearted enthusiasm; not lording it over those assigned to your care [do not be arrogant or overbearing], but be examples [of Christian living] to the flock [set a pattern of integrity for your congregation]. And when the Chief Shepherd (Christ) appears, you will receive the [conqueror’s] unfading crown of glory.”
Hebrews 13:21; (TPT).
“May he work perfection into every part of you giving you all that you need to fulfill your destiny. And may he express through you all that is excellent and pleasing to him through your life-union with Jesus the Anointed One who is to receive all glory forever! Amen!”
The Preacher’s Mistake
The parish Priest, so full of himself,
climbed up into a high church steeple,
“To be nearer to God,” is what he said,
“to hand down God’s word to the people.”
Whether the sun was high, or the sun was low
‘twas his own purpose he was heeding,
to let the people beneath him know
that he was forever reading.
And now and again, when he heard the creak
of the weather vane a-turning,
he closed his eyes and solemnly said,
“Of truth, now, from God I am learning.”
And in sermon script he daily wrote
what he thought was sent from heaven,
and he sent this down on the people’s heads,
two days out of the seven.
In time God said, “Come down and die!”
And the priest cried from that high steeple,
“Where are you Lord?” and the Lord replied,
“I’m down here, among the people!”
©rdouglasveer - date unknown
INTRO:
Billy Graham once said, “Salvation isn't ours until we reach out and accept it.” Think of it this way. If someone wrote you a check for a thousand dollars and put that check in your hand, would you possess the money? Well, no. You could easily throw that check away or put it in a drawer “for later”. But if you took that check to the bank and cashed it, only then could you say those funds were yours. Accepting the money is the key to possession.
Many people hear about “salvation” but they don’t really accept it. They come up with several reasons for not accepting Christ. So they put Him “in a drawer” for later. They say, “I’m not ready to change my lifestyle. Maybe when I’m older, or sick, or when the end of my life comes, I will turn to Him, but not now . . .” That’s quite a gamble, don’t you think? None of us knows when the end of our life will come.
So what is it God is asking us to accept? First, admit you are a sinner. Second, be willing to turn away from sin, with God’s help. Third, believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again on the third day, for you. He took the punishment for your sins upon Himself. Fourth, ask Jesus Christ into your heart and life. He promises to transform you from the inside, out. He will fill you with His peace and his joy and define your real purpose in life. Trust Him, today!
TEXT:
2 Corinthians 6:2; (NLT).
“For God says, ‘At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.’ Indeed, the ‘right time’ is now. Today is the day of salvation.”
Psalm 69:13; (AMP).
“But as for me, my prayer is to You, O Lord, at an acceptable and opportune time; O God, in the greatness of Your favor and in the abundance of Your lovingkindness, Answer me with truth [that is, the faithfulness of Your salvation].”
Everybody’s Talkin' ‘Bout Heaven
Everybody’s talkin' 'bout heaven,
but evrything's movin' so slow.
Everybody’s talkin' 'bout heaven.
How many will get to go?
Everybody’s talkin' 'bout heaven,
and bein' lifted up in the air.
Everybody’s talkin' 'bout heaven,
but mere words won't get you there.
Talk is cheap with no commitment.
They are just words in the air.
There's no conductor callin' "all aboard"
so talk won't pay the fare.
Many say, "I'm goin' to heaven
on the judgement day."
But there's a price; its my life and soul.
Am I really willing to pay?
Life is short and goes so fast.
We can’t understand where it went.
And when it's over, gone and done,
suddenly it's the end.
Yes, life is short and goes so fast.
I can’t figure out where it went.
Suddenly it's over and then what happens?
You'll figure it out in the end.
Everybody’s talkin' 'bout heaven,
but evrything's movin' so slow.
Everybody’s talkin' 'bout heaven.
How many will get to go?
Everybody’s talkin' 'bout heaven,
and bein' lifted up in the air.
Everybody’s talkin' 'bout heaven,
but mere words won't get you there . . .
. . . Knowing Jesus will get you there!
©rdouglasveer - date unknown
INTRO:
Did you know that God invented love? When human life began on this planet, the LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him,” (Genesis 2:18; NLT). So God made Eve to be Adam’s wife. We find several other love stories in the Bible. Jacob loved Rachel and worked for her father a total of 14 years to pay for her hand in marriage. Ruth lost her husband but because of her loyalty to her mother-in-law, Boaz fell in love with her and married her. Mary and Joseph were courting when the Holy Spirit told her she was with child. Joseph could have left her because of any perceived shame, but he trusted God and married Mary after Jesus was born. The greatest love story of all is the one between Jesus (the Lamb) and His bride (the living church of believers). His ultimate plan is for us as believers to be united with our Lord for eternity. And when that wedding day comes there will be much rejoicing: “Let us rejoice and be happy and give God glory! Give God glory, because the wedding of the Lamb has come. And the Lamb’s bride has made herself ready.” (Revelation 19:7; ERV). Here on earth, love within the bonds of marriage most closely relates to our union with Christ. And while the Song of Solomon is a book about the love between a husband and a wife, it also reflects Christ’s love for His bride. Oh, what a day that will be.
TEXT:
Song of Solomon 1:15, 16; (ICB).
The Man Speaks, “15 My darling, you are beautiful! Oh, you are beautiful! Your eyes are like doves!”
The Woman Answers the Man, “16 You are so handsome, my lover.
You are so pleasant!"
My Valentine
We are so different, you and I.
You're a girl and I’m a guy.
I'm from the Southern U.S.A.
You're from the far-up northern way.
You sing just like a meadow lark.
I'm like a bear rubbing a piece of bark.
I love hot, fast cars and love to drive.
Sometimes you worry how you’ll stay alive.
But what's so wonderful is this:
our love did bloom when first we kissed.
I am your husband; you are my wife.
Loving you fills up my life.
This is our first year valentine.
And I thank God; forever, you are mine.
rdouuglasveer 2/13/98
INTRO:
If you and I were honest we would have to admit that we worry over things at times. Some people try not to worry too much, but others find worrying to be an all-consuming past-time. God knows all about it, and He sees every aspect of our lives; He knows what we need and He faithfully provides . . . A fresh revelation of His word will assure us of His love and care. “. . . your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!” (Matthew 6:8; NLT). And then there’s God’s message in Luke’s Gospel: “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you . . .” (Luke 12:27, 28; NLT). But you may say, “I have prayed and asked the Lord to help me but I can’t see Him working. It feels like He’s not even there.” Well, just because we can’t see God’s hand in our situation does not mean He isn’t at work. We have to realize things take time. Yes, we can cast all our anxieties on Him because He cares for us, (see 1 Peter 5:7). Let us therefore decide to trust in God just as David did when he said, “I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul,” (Psalm 31:7; NLT).
TEXT:
Luke 12:28; (NLT).
“. . . if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you . . .”
Isaiah 41:10; (NIV).
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
His Unseen Hand
When my world is full of nothing
but a lot of push and shove,
and I’m tired and I’m weary
and I want to just be loved.
When storms rage all around me
driving me . . . onward, blind,
I have a reassurance
that I can always find.
The hidden, unseen forces
that provide for all my needs
ride the winds of His compassion
sent by God at His own speed.
When I seem to lose my way
on a foggy, stormy night,
and the pathways are so full
of an unquenched state of fright, I find
He’s not a God of failure;
He’s not a God of fear.
I simply reach my hand out
and always find Him near.
There is a safer road
that I can always trod,
and I’m led there oh, so safely
by the unseen hand of God.
rdouglasVeer ©04/01/04
Matthew 16: 26, “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but
lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?”
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