We are continuing our review of our summer of God sightings,
so that we will not forget God’s benefits,
and so we can tell them to our children,
and to our children’s children.
We do not want to be like the Israelites who forgot His works,
and the wonders that He had shown them.
We began, this summer, by going on a God hunt.
With the help of the psalms,
and some of the ways the Mains helped us to see God,
let us continue our review of the summer.
Perhaps you will be with family or friends this holiday weekend.
I challenge you to tell them about a God sighting!
Sunday: 9/3: Bless the Lord, O My Soul
Prepare your heart for the week with this:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtwIT8JjddM
1. Have you told anyone about a God Sighting from this summer? If so, tell us about it.
2. How did God meet you in church today?
Labor Day: 9/4: Dwelling together in unity
Whenever there is a problem in a horizontal relationship, there is usually a problem in our vertical relationship with God, But when that is good, oh, how it can change our relationships with one another. When we see this happening, truly, this is a God sighting. How I felt that this summer as all my children visited. Stomping my control idol and allowing God to be in control has brought so much more harmony between me and my children and therefore my children and also my children’s children. Here are two of my daughter’s daughter exalting in creation, summer, and being together at my home.
3. Read Psalm 133
A. To what does the psalmist compare brothers dwelling together in unity?
B. Comment on what this metaphor means to you.
4. Share a time of enjoying the fruit of peace due to growth in the Lord that you had this summer.
5. Share a time of sweet fellowship that felt like the soothing of oil.
Tuesday, 9/5: If it had not been for the Lord
God does not promise us a life free of storms, but rather, to be with us in the storms.
6. Read Psalm 124
A. What do you learn about this life and our help from this psalm?
B. What our some of the metaphors from this psalm that resonate with you?
7. Share a trouble you faced this summer and how the Lord helped you.
WEDNESDAY, 9/6: BECAUSE HE BENDS DOWN TO LISTEN
I love the following parphrase of Psalm 116:1. I remember it was in a card a seeker to one of my Bible studies sent me after my daughter Sally was born. In that seeker’s group I had told them that I had asked God, if this time, He might give me a girl with a heart tender toward him who looked like my husband. I also prayed she would be born on April 27th, as it was the only day when Steve would be free to be with me. When God answered that prayer, not only I, but my whole seeker’s group, was in awe.
8. Read Psalm 116:1-2 and explain why, here, the psalmist is thankful.
9. Share an answer to prayer you had this summer.
10. Sometimes His answers are rescues from circumstances, but perhaps more often, rescues from our own sinful ways. Can you share an answer like that?
11. Share the answer to 10 with someone this week and report.
THURSDAY, 9/7: YOU HAVE DELIVERED MY EYES FROM TEARS
I chose this image because it is in another language (I don’t even know what it is), but I love to think how God moves throughout the earth, to every tribe and nation, delivering from death, snares, and tears.
12. Read Psalm 116:3-9
A. From what did the Lord deliver the psalmist according to verse 3, and what, according to verse 7 should be his response?
B. From what did the Lord deliver the psalmist according to verse 8, and what, according to verse 9, should be his response?
13. Have you faced grief this summer? Is the Lord helping you through it? Explain.
FRIDAY, 9/8: EXPERIENCING HIS PRESENCE
He blesses us with His gifts, but nothing compares to His presence. That is what the psalmist longs for in my favorite psalm, Psalm 42. But if you are in a time of feeling more of His absence, I love what Keller says: “the sense of His absence means you have known His presence.”
14. Have you experienced the sense of His presence this summer? If so, share.
15. If you were with us in July when we looked at The Song, how did the Shulammite experience both His absence and His presence?
SATURDAY: 9/9/17
16. Share two God sightings from this summer that you do not want to forget!
114 comments
I have multiple talks with my sister in laws about the God sightings we see. Whether it be in the beauty of the weather, a bird singing, a family members health or how God has reveal Ed himself to us in scripture. Due to my husband being so busy with the Hurricane he had to work another Sunday. My son and I decided to go online to my son’s church in Colorado. What a joy it was to my heart and soul to feel his rich blessings as we got to worship with our son so many miles away! Even though we weren’t side by side, we were heart to heart!!!
That’s beautiful, Brenda. What is your husband doing with the hurricane? Any chance he is working with my friend Christy Forquer’s organization Heart to Heart?
Brenda, so glad you have such close relationships with your sister in laws-such a kiss from him! Glad your son in Colorado gets to go and help in Houston too. What a joy it must be for you that he is walking with Jesus and he is the oldest one which makes a huge impact on your other son. 🙂 Love you.
1. Have you told anyone about a God Sighting from this summer? If so, tell us about it.
I met up with a friend I haven’t seen for months and caught up with one another. When she asked me how I was doing, I told her I feel less stressed. When she asked what made the difference, I shared about how the Lord has been so near to me, that His Word has been truly a light and revealing of His character, and that the God hunt we have been doing has completely changed my attitude and perspective. Abbie is a Christian and is a very good listener. Just recounting (aloud) the ways God has been working in my life to her gave me a peaceful, warm feeling. She in turn shared progress with her health issues. It was a wonderful experience of sharpening one another. (This is just a repeat of what I wrote in last week’s blog)
2. How did God meet you in church today?
God met me through our Sunday School material based on Exodus. I was reminded that Genesis to Revelation is HIStory and that history supports the bible. Understanding the context and listening to others in the class share was a kiss from the Lord. Moses received a call from God, God promised His presence and enabling and also provided a resource in his brother, Aaron! God continues to affirm and confirm in my heart that He has called me to teach and I can rely on His presence and enabling just as He has did for Moses in times past.
Sounds like a great time with a friend and in Sunday School!
Bing–love this, how God “continues to affirm and confirm in my heart that He has called me to teach and I can rely on His presence and enabling just as He has did for Moses in times past”. Hold on to that affirmation from Him–you are a treasure for your students!
2. How did God meet you in church today? I have been reading George Mueller’s autobiography and have been becoming more aware of my need for continual prayer and fellowship with God. Our pastor had us start service with a time of personal or small group prayer for the people affected by the hurricane. It was refreshing to pray and hear others praying. I came away with a renewed desire to pray.
Love the George Mueller quote about getting our soul happy in the Lord each morning!
Dawn– Mueller’s autobiography sounds like a great read–putting in on my list!
Dawn, so glad the George Mueller autobiography is ministering to you, and it’s always good to see you here!
1. Have you told anyone about a God Sighting from this summer? If so, tell us about it. This requires a little back story first. Years ago, probably when I was in my early twenties, I was driving home from Virginia with my closest friend, Debbie. She was taking in the beauty along the way and I said, “I wish I could feel what you feel and experience when you look at God’s creation.” So then I decided to ask God for that gift. I prayed and asked for the ability to see the beauty in His creation and have the same deep appreciation for it that my friend always had. He answered that prayer almost immediately, as I recall, I became someone who could just look at the blue sky, even in a concrete downtown area, and be in total awe and wonder at the beauty of His creation. Well, about a month ago I reached a point where I was so extremely fatigued and so depressed (I think largely due to the fatigue, and low thyroid hormones) that I could not do that any more. I tried to sit outside, to feel that sense of awe, but nothing…nothing but a feeling of despair and hopelessness. It was like all gray skies, even when the sun was shining. I had some labs tests done and found out my TSH (thyroid indicator) was very high (which actually means not enough thyroid hormones) so my endocrinologist put me on another med. I also had a friend who invited me to spend a weekend at her parent’s lake house on lake Erie. My liver enzymes were also very high, due to the chemo pill I am on, so my oncologist told me to stop it for a while, till they came down (which actually was a blessing!) I also prayed and asked God to return that gift of being able to enjoy His creation to me. So, even before I made the trip to the lake, that ability returned. Even just in our housing development, I could sit on our front steps and look at a fat little bumble bee buzzing around my cone flowers and feel that awe and wonderment again. Then the trip weekend arrived and it was supposed to rain nearly the whole time. I prayed that God would let it be sunny weather, if that was His will, and it was! We had beautiful, blue skies and sunshine everyday. It was the most enjoyable time I have had in I don’t even know how long. It seemed like, due to fatigue, I had literally missed nearly all of spring and summer this year, but God redeemed it for me on that trip. That was like multiple God sightings in one weekend. Beautiful blue, green, gray lake colors, sunsets, etc… breathtaking. Back on the chemo now (my second week, I do two weeks on, one off) and my energy is waning, but I can still feel that awe and wonderment of His creation, and I prayed and asked Him to please not ever let that leave me again. One night I was talking to Him and crying because I was afraid that things would be so incredible beyond description in heaven that I would not have the ability to even begin to take it in, but then I concluded that He can surely give us that ability in heaven, just as He can here.
2. How did God meet you in church today? Through others who are struggling. Our music minister was diagnosed with stage 4 (metastatic) prostate cancer this summer, spread to his bones. The cancer very quickly responded to treatment, but he has really bad side-effects, bone pain, weakness, and yet he preservers. A woman in my class has an extremely rare blood disorder and the med she has been on for 11 years now has caused deep, extremely painful ulcers in her legs. She had to stop the medicine and they are just monitoring her platelet count. Her condition, like mine, is “treatable” but not considered curable…ultimately it’s terminal. I was able to join with several others in praying with her today, and it all turns me thoughts to the fallenness of the world we live in and that of our bodies as well, but that a grander plan is at work in it all; a plan of redemption being played out for all to see, which will ultimately result in praise, honor, and glory to the Lamb.
Mary E., you continue to bless my heart with your realness and honesty abt your struggles. It is an evidence of a great God in a life that is surrendered toHim. I love your prayer asking God to renew your awe of His creation and thatHe did in such special ways. And in your saying u see God in sufferings of others-that is holy. We are indeed in holy ground when we see God in human suffering. It is a painful beauty.
Oh Mary — so great to “see” you hear — and as always, you are such an encouragement. I love the prayer to see the beauty in creation and the answer. And in the midst of your pain, you are so aware of others in pain.
Mary, I can picture you watching the fat little bumblebee on the coneflowers! All of His Creation, from the big and magnificent to the tiniest things, is wondrous! I’m glad He answered that prayer you prayed to be able to enjoy it like your friend, and thankful that He ministered to you on your trip to Lake Erie.
Mary e, your beautiful #2 reminded me of this quote by Keller: “Everything sad is going to come untrue and it will somehow be greater for having once been broken and lost.” This has stuck with me-that yes everything sad will come untrue but it will somehow be greater for having once been broken and lost.
Rebecca, I LOVE that quote! I’m so glad you shared this. 🙂 I’ll remember it now.
Dear Mary E, you are so brave & honest, & such an inspiration! So good to see you back. How wonderful that the Lord refreshed you so completely at Lake Erie, & that He answered your prayer about delighting in nature. I think when He opens our eyes to see it, there are endless delights & joys to behold! And you are right about heaven…I’m sure He will do all the work & just blow us away with His goodness 🙂
🙂
thank you, what a gift you are.
Hey Dee, to answer your question. My husband is the Project Manager with NFS who holds the servicing contract with FEMA. He’s been a bit busy lately. 🙂
Brenda, please thank you husband for his work with NFS and FEMA. My heart goes out to the people of Houston.
Oh Brenda — didn’t know that. Wow. So is he gone a lot? Is he in Houston now?
I am LOVING the focus on God-sightings and it is so encouraging to read others’ stories–seeing how He works so personally, so uniquely. I liked Jenny’s story last week about God showing her a dress to wear that she had forgotten about! It encourages me both to hear God moving, but also Jenny’s sensitivity to SEE Him, when it is so easy to chalk something up to coincidence or just overlook–but He is always working, and He cares for every detail. “But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you…” (matthew 6)
2. How did God meet you in church today?
Today was my first day back to church with Philip since bringing him home. I was SO worried about it. He is very social and very affectionate, and I feared him squirming out of my arms and running into a stranger’s. OK, full confession of just how worried–I opened my google translate on my phone and said to him in Mandarin “stay with mama”! as we were walking in. I also prayed, the whole drive there. Well, he did perfect. He actually barely smiled at anyone at first and just clung to me so hard I didn’t need my arms around him to hold him up. Then we got to the singing, and he started belting it out with a big ol smile. No idea what he was saying, but he thought he was singing along with all of us. I cried remembering the last time I had been there was before we left for him, and now I stood holding this child from a Chinese orphanage who would have never heard of Jesus, soaking in songs of praise, surrounded by believers who had prayed for him for months. So thankful.
Love the story about Phillip, Lizzy. Such kiss from the King!
Love, love, love that church experience today, Lizzy! 😀
Beautiful story, Lizzie! Keep them coming!
Lizzy, How beautiful-so love this story! How beautiful His body.
This melts my heart, Lizzy.
What joy to hear of God’s love poured out on you being back at your church yesterday with Phillip. Love hearing about him singing.
Oh Lizzy, thanks for that encouragement! I almost didn’t talk about the dress cause I thought some might think it silly. But I believe nothing is too small or too great for our God! What a sweet & powerful story about Philip! God is using him to bless & mould you, I’m sure! 🙂
2. How did God meet you in church today?
My daughter and I went to church yesterday. I haven’t admitted this to anyone, but it’s getting harder and harder for me to go to church. I’m not sure what is wrong with me? I have read the new blog of a Christian woman, won’t name her, but she brought up the issue of why many are “leaving the church in droves” and posted a link to an article about it. Maybe I shouldn’t read those sort of things? They only seem to confirm what I’m feeling inside. I just don’t know what I’m looking for, really. I wonder often what the early church was like, when people met in homes and there likely weren’t several hundred people there, and everyone knew each other’s names. I feel, when I go to the worship service, that I stare at the backs of people’s heads; people who are total strangers to me….I watch a worship team perform on a stage as if I’m at a concert and read words on a big screen in front, and then during the sermon, I feel as if I’m being shouted at. Then we leave and there is no connection with anyone during the week. I’m a bit embarrassed and wary to admit all of this. I used to love to go to church. I don’t feel as if God is meeting me at church.
3. Read Psalm 133
A. To what does the psalmist compare brothers dwelling together in unity?
Living together in unity is like precious oil poured on the head, and it runs down on the beard – he mentions specifically “Aaron’s beard” and how the oil runs down upon the collar of his robes. I wish I understood more about the culture back then and the use of oil for anointing. I don’t know that I would like to have oil poured on my head and have it run down my face! This oil referenced here is sacred anointing oil, so perhaps he is saying that there is a sacredness about living in unity and it pleases God. He also compares it to the dew of Hermon falling on Mount Zion, the place where God bestows His blessing.
B. Comment on what this metaphor means to you.
I’m thinking of the Proverb that describes a nagging wife like a slow drip, drip, drip….it drives you crazy and is irritating. We were invited to a neighbor’s home last evening for dessert, along with another couple. Our hosts have the kind of marriage in which they live in unity, and it is good and pleasant to be around them. I see them living out life together as God would have us do so. They are both believers and they live together in peace and contentment.
Susan, Don’t feel bad about that. It is good to be honest. Those are real feelings for a lot of us can relate and so just pray as I know you are asking God for wisdom, for fellowship for that is his desire for us, for you. We have struggled with the same things you are.
Susan — I agree with Rebecca — so glad for your honesty so we can pray with you about this. I will pray for you to be able to connect or to have wisdom if you need to be in another church, perhaps smaller, perhaps a different style? I don’t think we should be “church hoppers,” but sometimes God leads us elsewhere. It is hard to go without your husband, and I get that. I have been so much more content in The Orchard. Loving you.
Susan, I totally understand your feelings here. I do think since the churches are so small in the northeast, we don’t really have a lot of that going on (although there is one church in the community where that is the style). Maybe Dee is right; you could look for another smaller church? Also, our church has been encoraging small groups during the week using a curriculum called “Right Now Media.” Our church has a subscription to this site and there are devotionals, movies, and studies there that anyone can use or carry out sessions with no troubles. Maybe you could start a small group to get to know people in the church? Remember Dee’s tea party idea? I really had fun with it even though it was a bit scary. I will pray that you might feel better about this situation.
Susan, I’m sorry to hear how hard church has become for u, but so appreciate your honesty! I go alone too, without my husband & found that very difficult for years. Now I always sit with some other “single” women & that has given a strong sense of connection. Also being in a small group during week or meeting one of them for coffee & encouragement, can be lifegiving. Praying that the Lord will open a new door for u & bless you in surprising ways.
oh sweet Susan–I am so sorry the Church piece has continued to be a struggle. I know you are not alone in that, and yet that doesn’t help either! I will really pray for God to open the way, lead you where He wants you, for I am certain there is a place He specifically has for you. You have SO many gifts to offer, but I also want you to feel welcomed and loved on, supported and prayed for. I do wonder if a smaller place, even a home-church type setting would fit you. I will pray. Love you~
1. Have you told anyone about a God Sighting from this summer? If so, tell us about it.
Being with Dee this Summer-there were plenty of God sightings there but one that I will always hold dear is sensing His love so strong in her church at her home. Everyone was welcoming everyone and His love was palpable-even when we split up to talk about the sermon. He kissed me like never before for I had only experienced this tight knit family in church once before and God knew I longed for that taste and longed for my family to experience it. My boys commented on how they loved it, and God moved so in their hearts through Ron and other members-just how they sensed His love too. I told Brenda Carlson this yesterday actually. Brenda, I am jumping with joy that you are here on the blog. 🙂
2. How did God meet you in church today?
We visited a church and our oldest jumped up with a smile and said, “Can I come?” 🙂 I said, yes. (That was my first God sighting for he quit coming to church with us when he turned 18). After a spirit filled sermon my oldest asked me if he could talk to them about evolution and if I could go up with him because he was nervous. I told him to go ahead and go on his own-that he will be okay. So he did. The pastor and worship pastor handled it beautifully with Grace and Love. He told them he was an atheist right up front. :-/ Then after he met with the pastor he told us he liked his conversation with the pastor and worship pastor and they just seemed like regular guys that he could talk to and be friends with. I suspect since ceasing going to church with us he has felt a loss. I think he wants friends who are believers. I have been praying for God to bring a believer to him who will love him, and well maybe someone like Brennan Manning who is down to earth and passionate for Christ.
Rebecca–love that your oldest asked to come along to church this morning!!! that’s BIG!! praying! 🙂
I agree with Lizzy, Rebecca. Exciting about Isaac. Eager for updates.
Rebecca, this is a HUGE kiss! Praising God with you for this!
joining you in prayer for your oldest! at our church (which often looks more like a biker bar :-)) we have so many young people who have been hurt by the church. they come with their nose rings and tatoos and we do our best to love them where they are at….its a messy buisness but so worth it. I pray that this church will be that for your son! self proclaimed atheists have come to our church and stayed because people loved them even if they drank beer, lived with their girlfriends or had 10 pieces of body art. they have stayed. I am struck by how many homeschooled kids who grew up in very legalistic churches and were hurt deeply by them have the courage to “try the god thing out” again. JESUS and GRACE and LOVE are so attractive when not covered up by self rightous people.
sorry, i rant 🙂 praying for your son!
4. Share a time of enjoying the fruit of peace due to growth in the Lord that you had this summer.
I am growing in my understanding that my comfort idol does not, in the end, give me the fruit of peace and happiness. It seems to at first, but reflecting back on times when I have felt the most joy, it was most often connected to helping others, doing for others, not in being self-focused on my needs and desires.
I really feel that God helps me at my job. I work two days a week as a home care coordinator at a hospital, and we have been extremely busy. There are days when the number of patients I’m following are in the 20’s and 30’s. He helps me to stay focused and to just keep steadily working and with a sense of calm inside, even when I’m starting to feel overwhelmed and anxious.
That’s awesome Susan…I’m in Home care too! I’m a Home Health nurse in the field , & it seems the needs are endless. Praise God for giving you His peace in the stress 🙂
1. Have you told anyone about a God Sighting from this summer? If so, tell us about it.
To me, God sightings are those that occur unexpectantly; those that surprise you. I’m not sure I have had many of those this summer. However, I have had a couple of times where life has been “good to me.” Normally these days it has only been low times. So, these few times included my sister coming to help me with my grandchildren (and who is still here), and a wonderful beginning to my school year in several ways; low numbers, a wonderful colleague to partner with, lovely students, and believe it or not, a temporary job loss at the community college is a blessing this semester. I just don’t have time for a second job when I am playing mommy to my two grandchildren.
2. How did God meet you in church today?
Our pastor preached on Psalm 23 today and I felt so blessed by the peace it brought me. I am meditating and memorizing it this week.
1. Have you told anyone about a God sighting from this Summer?
Last Thursday I was able to spend the afternoon just visiting uninterrupted with a dear sister in Christ. We related many ways God had moved and worked in our families this past Summer. God sightings. She has a special place in my heart and life as a prayer partner and dear friend. Almost 30 years ago we were moving back to our home town and because of painful family circumstances I didn’t want to. But I couldn’t argue with God about the move because I knew it was His will for us. So I told, yes I (TOLD) God, didn’t ask Him, that if I had to move back He had to give me a praying friend. Someone who really knew how to pray. He in his grace toward a demanding child did exactly that in giving me this sweet friend. Our bond in Christ runs deep. This story ties back to reading Dee’s book “Friendships of Women” and a related seminar she held in Nebraska that I attended. A whole other story (-: Oh the grace of God over the years.
2. How did God meet you in church today?
The message was primarily from Deuteronomy and the gist of it was how the Israelites kept following after other gods (idols) resulting in curses (consequences) and in their case being kicked out of the promised land. One note from the sermon says “Israel’s staying in the promised land was based on the conditional aspects of the Mosaic covenant, dependant on heart obedience.” The pastor made a point of the need for heart obedience. Another note from the sermon says “Other gods allow you to be your own boss. Whatever you are trusting in to bring you happiness and meaning is your god. But other gods will eventually fail you.
He went on to talk about the role of Judges over Israel and ended with this point. “These judges could not grant the Israelites what they needed most: forgiven, changed hearts.” The application of course being that is exactly what Jesus Christ offers us because of the Cross. Our God will never fail us!
God keeps reminding me personally of the truths learned on this blog even through my own son’s preaching. Humbling.
Dee, no, my husband gets to stay here. The company has adjusters that they send out to do the leg work. He is in the office more during these times. I don’t get to see him much, but this weekend we are taking a trip with his sisters for a relaxing, no internet weekend. 🙂 Just in time before Irma hits the states. 🙂
Thank you for asking and Ernema I will pass on the “Thanks”. We would also like to ask for prayers of protection on our son Eric (he lives in Colorado). He is one of 10 guys from church on their way to Houston (for a week) to help with recovery. He will be helping with cleanup or whatever anyone needs. You all are such a blessing to me. I enjoy reading the comments and being in a community of believers such as this. Dee thank you for this blog!! ♥
Brenda, Praying for Eric and his trip, and that you all would get rest before Irma. It is difficult with Kirk in his office for so many hours but what great work he is doing for those suffering in Houston! Love you.
Brenda — it is a joy to have you here. I love learning more about your family and your life. Will pray for Eric!
3A- How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!!
3B- I see that we are redeemed by the same Saviour, we serve the same Master; we cherich the same hope; we are looking forward to the same heaven; we are subject to the same trials, temptations and sorrows; we have the same precious consolations. We are dwelling together in unity!
4 – The time at my sister in laws when we were out in the country and it was a time of peace and stillness for me. The goodness and grace of the Lord was with me and he revealed himself to me. He started me on a journey of letting go of the things that hurt and trusting him with the things that I had to much a grip on. An example of that would be my boys. My youngest has High Functioning Autism and I’ve been afraid to let him go. I have been releasing that grip this summer, and my precious Lord has done more than I could ever imagined. Ephesians 3:20
5 – My sweet fellowship would be with my sister in Christ – Rebecca Dority. We both have sons on the Autism Spectrum and she has held my hand through it all. She is someone who radiates Christ and in that she brings encouragement, grace, and truth through our relationship. We don’t get to visit or see each other as much as we’d like, but when we do, you know that Christ is at the center of our friendship. We just spoke last night, and it was a sweet conversation where we were able to share our hearts and share Christ. Love ya girl!!♥
3. Read Psalm 133 A. To what does the psalmist compare brothers dwelling together in unity?
precious oil on the head–fragrant, holy oil
B. Comment on what this metaphor means to you.
Well, what comes to mind first is the oil I just used to treat my great grandmother’s antique wood sewing machine I have in my foyer! It’s a chore I love doing because I’ve usually put it off for a while, behind more pressing needs, so it’s usually all dry & dingy looking, but whenever I pour on the oil and rub it in–it’s like it comes back to life. The wood is moisturized and shines, looking as “new” as vintage can. It always seems like I’m giving it a drink of desperately needed nourishment. SO, when I read that our unity is like oil, poured out…it seems to say that living in unity with one another is what keeps us at our best, working well together, enjoying one another–and also allows us to shine, as a reflection of His face.
Lovely picture of what oil can do, Lizzy!
Last week we had an unexpected surprise. My daughter’s friend came to Chicago for a 2 day visit, & we hosted her (my husband & I). She is muslim from Palestine ,& was here for a 3 month summer program at the same university that my daughter goes to in Boston. My husband & I only had 1 evening at home with her, but it was so rich & delightful. My husband is not usually very conversant, but he really came out of his shell & loved talking with her. She was very intelligent, open & friendly, & we all hit it off. I felt a sweet unity between her (muslim), my husband (Jewish) & me (Christian). I felt truly blessed having her in our home, & was able to tell her I would be praying for her as she went home & through security at the airport. Sad to say it had been a humiliating & tough experience for her leaving Boston to come to Chicago, & airport security made it very difficult for her 🙁 So I prayed for her leaving Chicago, & it went somewhat smoother, & she thanked me for praying & said she loved me. What a sweetheart & I believe the Lord is working in her heart 🙂
Having said all that…. Ps 133 talks about unity like oil running down on the priest; like precious ointment; like dew fresh fallen from heaven upon the grass, & glistening in the morning light. Beautiful images for me, a nature lover! I think the Lord loves unity because that’s what He ordained in the beginning. The Trinity is a perfect picture of unity & delight. It is delightful to our souls, like the oil of the Holy Spirit coating us & filling us with the goodness of His Presence. It gives us joy & well-being, & we emit the fragrance of Christ when we dwell in unity.
A time of enjoying fruit of Peace due to growth in the Lord: trying to let go of “fixing” things between my son & daughter as they plan a trip together. There is already discord before they even leave for trip, but I am surrendering the outcome into the Lord’s hands. They are young adults & I need to let them figure out their own relationship. Even as I type this I am sensing more peace, as this is hard for me.
oh Jenny, what a beautiful story! such a sweet picture of the unity that comes only from Jesus!
6. Read Psalm 124
A. What do you learn about this life and our help from this psalm?
Without the Lord’s protection over us, we are doomed for death. He, the Creator, the source of all power, is my Helper.
B. What our some of the metaphors from this psalm that resonate with you?
“people rose up against us…anger kindled against us” I don’t want to go into it here, but there are a few key people in my life who completely turned their back on me when we decided to pursue this adoption. I have prayed, I have had nightmares!, but nothing has changed, and they are true believers. I am so prone to self-blame and to the lie that pain=punishment for what I did wrong, that if I did not have the truly countless reminders of God’s affirmation that He is on my side pouring over me, I know I would have shriveled up under this.
Oh my — what do we do when true believers turn their back on us? What you are doing, running into the arms of God. Forgiving — and I think of what Bonhoeffer said — forgiveness always demands a cost. It is painful. So proud of you, dear one.
Oh your heart Lizzy! I am so encouraged by you.
this breaks my heart into 1000 pieces! When we adopted Emma people were so supportive but when we adopted Lily it was a hard time in our family, my grandmother had died and my grandfather was dieing, my mom looked at me when I told “hinted” that we may put the money grandma left us into another adoption and said “you cant save them all cyndi” which is true, and i always tend to bite off more than i can chew but still it hurt…. they love her now, but it was a rocky year in our relationship.
A. Comment on what this metaphor means to you.
I looked up some commentary on this passage to understand the context. Found interesting information about the specifics of the oil. “ It was to be composed of several rich spices, which, by being rightly tempered and mixed together, yielded a most fragrant odour, and thus became a most expressive emblem of unanimity and concord, in a well-cemented society; all jointly conspiring and contributing, according to their various capacities, tempers, and conditions, to the good of the whole.” — Dodd..
This metaphor to me means unity among the brethren brings joy and gladness and permeates relationships despite our differences. We bring ourselves and our thoughts to the table with being unified for the common good in mind.
Dew moistens and refreshes the earth and makes it ready to be fruitful and verdant and beautiful. “A thing of beauty is a joy forever.” Unity is beautiful and joyful.
4. Share a time of enjoying the fruit of peace due to growth in the Lord that you had this summer.
When a friend confronted me about something I did that offended her, I was not as mortified as I used to be. I apologized and moved on with our friendship and I feel like we are on a better ground because we worked through our differences.
5. Share a time of sweet fellowship that felt like the soothing of oil.
I would say that times at the farm with my husband have been sweet. It seems like both of us get to “let our hair down”-no pretense, no proving to somebody-just a relaxing, unhurried time of conversations and reflection of our lives. I wouldn’t trade these for anything.
Read Psalm 133
A. To what does the psalmist compare brothers dwelling together in unity?
Like precious oil on the head running down the beard and clothes of Aaron. Like the dew of Hermon falling on Mountains of Zion.
B. Comment on what this metaphor means to you.
It is life giving, and oh so life giving in our dead spots which true unity does. Iron sharpening Iron as God moves in our unity to change us and make our gardens bloom. When I think of the oil over Aaron’s head and beard and clothes I think of the costly oil-perfume poured on Jesus feet-sacrifice yet a fragrance abounded. So others will know us by our love. Our love for one another will be fragrant to those around us.
The Dew reminds me of the morning like a start of a new day, and Dew is refreshing. Not sure how that fits in but maybe the refreshment to the soul God gives through unity?
Rebecca — hadn’t really meditated on the dew — but I love that.
Rebecca, thank you for the image of iron sharpening iron – God moving in our unity – gardens blooming!! Beautiful!!!
4. Share a time of enjoying the fruit of peace due to growth in the Lord that you had this summer.
I guess for me growth in the Lord starts with drawing closer to Him. This Summer, and I am struggling to articulate this because I can’t explain it, I sensed Him more than I ever have before and it is just a small wave but to me huge for I didn’t want it to end. Just letting His delight in me sink in-can it be?????!!!! That is where it starts and His peace helped me let go of control and comfort for He is in control and He is my comfort, and this was just a small wave of what could be and what indeed will come. I want to grow in trusting Him and experience His presence and peace more! Resting in Him has been changing my response to stressful situations around me for they aren’t as big as they used to be. Yet my heart is deceitful and I am prone to wander. So I need to be careful to not let my heart deceive me and listen to Him.
5. Share a time of sweet fellowship that felt like the soothing of oil.
I will have to agree with Brenda. She is a face to face friend where we can confess our sins to one another-our heart struggles with idols. Those conversations always end up with us helping one another turn our gaze to Him. She will tell me the truth in love and has come to our rescue in bringing us groceries during a time when I didn’t have time to get any-no hospital stays, no illness-she just sensed a need and surprised us. 🙂 She also encourages me when I feel like a failure as a parent. 🙂
6. Read Psalm 124
A. What do you learn about this life and our help from this psalm?
We will always face “enemies” and “floods” in this life. There are times when it would feel like they will overcome us. But this Psalm tells me that my Help is always there for me. He is available 24/7. I can call on His name anytime.
A. What our some of the metaphors from this psalm that resonate with you?
The torrent of the flood-I can remember some significant painful times in my life that I felt carried by the torrents of life. Yet, looking back I have seen God’s rescue and sovereignty in them.
7. Share a trouble you faced this summer and how the Lord helped you.
Taking 6 students to Louisville KY and spending 6 days with them was a challenge. The Lord provided a way for my husband to go with us and he drove the 11 hours it took us to get there and back. Furthermore, there was drama among the girls, we had late nights and the atmosphere everyday was not what I was used to (loud socials during the evenings and so many people to relate to). I felt like a fish out of water! But the Lord helped me by calming my spirit and encouraging me daily through His Word. It was a joy to have my students placing well including a bronze model for our team on Alzheimer’s!
6. Life is full of trials and troubles. We can see the trouble around us, but we can take rest in knowing that we are protected/helped in the name of Jesus.
What resonates with me the most is verse 2. “If the Lord had not been on our side when people attacked us, they would have swallowed us alive when their anger flarred against us.” I regretfully admit that I’ve had relationships in my life that have not been healthy. As I’m sure, I have been the unhealthy one for others. In all that, I am thankful for his Spirit guiding, warning and protecting me from further attack. He has rescued me from the snare and has set me safely in a new place.
7. I may be off on this, but my trouble this summer was my knees. I come from a long line of bone issues. I have Valgur knees and they cause trouble now and then. This summer has been the worst. I walk/jog a lot and I had to put a stop to it due to the pain. I was in physical therapy all summer and was getting frustrated with how slow the recovery was. Gently and lovingly, God reminded me that I hadn’t been praying for my condition as I shouldve of been, instead I was relying too much on the medical field. I know God was working in it, but I wasn’t taking it all to Him (there’s a control Idol there that needs work).Long story short…I changed my focus and I am now back at walking and a slow jog. I am thankful for Him helping and healing my knees, but mostly for redirecting me and remindung me that He is my physician and healer. He helped me see the error of my ways, had grace on me and carried me through the situation.
Brenda, So so good about God rescuing you by giving you wisdom in relationships lately for you have been attacked. Your answer to #7 resonates with me. I love how you are always consistently seeing Him in your trials and how you see how He carries you. You do this consistently. That is one of the things i love about you and that God has used to encourage me. It is so easy for me to focus on what I am unable to do because of my back and then get down instead of clinging to Him through it and being thankful for the good that he has brought from it, and this is in my best interest. Whenever something bad happens I tend to focus on the bad and can become anxious when truly God is moving in it for my good and his glory.
Thanks! I definitely have my times of self pity and discouragement with this body of mine. I need and want Him to be the first place I go for my needs, but unfortunately that’s not always the way it goes. I can make it sound like I do, when in truth I turn to other things first. Im thankful for a gracious God who never grows weary and allows me to come just as I am.
Brenda, I so love your testimony of quiet trust in God as you deal with your knee problems. I had to look up “valgur” to add to my medical vocabulary! Hah-2 weeks from now we will be talking about the musculoskeletal system in class. I will see if any of my smart students know the word. Smile.
I, on the other hand have back and shoulder issues. I agree with you about relying on God rather that “relying too much on the medical field”. He is Jehovah Rophe. Ultimately, healing comes Him whatever ways He so chooses. And all glory to Him, indeed.
I spelled the condition wrong…lol. it’s Valgus. 🙂
Ps 124: What do you learn about this life & our help? The Lord is on our side! We could be overwhelmed, trapped or swept away if it wasn’t for the Lord; protecting us, freeing us & acting on our behalf. He is our help & He is with us thro it all.
What are some of the metaphors that resonate with you? Being “swallowed alive by wrath kindled against me”. & “like a bird escaped from the snare”. The Lord has shielded me & given me wisdom to deal with rage & anger in a relationship. He has also set me free from the snare of paralyzing fear & rescued me from being devoured by the enemy.
By God’s grace I haven’t had any real “trouble” this summer. It has been a season of rest, after the storms. But He restores my soul whenever I run to Him. He is Faithful 🙂
3. Read Psalm 133
A. To what does the psalmist compare brothers dwelling together in unity?
Oil and dew running down on the head.
B. Comment on what this metaphor means to you.
When brothers get along, life is smooth.
4. Share a time of enjoying the fruit of peace due to growth in the Lord that you had this summer.
My my sister and I have not always gotten along. Since our mother has died, she has really stepped up to the plate to be there for me. I appreciate that so much. She joined us on our eclipse road trip and we had a grand time together! She has been with us since and we are truly enjoying each other’s company.
5. Share a time of sweet fellowship that felt like the soothing of oil.
I’m not sure what you mean by this, but anytime my senses are all enhanced, I feel like I am being soothed. The music, the lighting, dance, etc.
I think of oil as soothing — like when my friend Twila lost her baby and she had the sense of oil pouring over her head soothing her — or — like in a massage with oil — everything relaxes…
6. Read Psalm 124
A. What do you learn about this life and our help from this psalm?
If we believe and have faith, God will help us out of our troubles. The Lord is in our side.
B. What are some of the metaphors from this psalm that resonate with you?
He is with us in the flood.
7. Share a trouble you faced this summer and how the Lord helped you.
We are still struggling in our daughter’s situation. She has left us and caused us such pain in the mast month. We are filing for temporary guardianship of the grandkids today (please pray all goes well; but then again every other thing I have prayed for about this situation has fallen flat). I think I have really mis-read Gods plan for our family in the past 2 years. Sad. I am very sad about losing my daughter and her seemingly not caring about her two children, but would rather stay with her boyfriend and continue to be distracted by him. I’m not sure we are onboard with God in this situation; have really tried hard not to let my control idol get in the way, but here we are now. I supposed if it is meant to be then it will happen. Something new to me in no worry about the situation. I have full faith He is in control. That’s at least good I suppose. I believe having my sister agree to help us for awhile is a blessing that God was in control of as well. We are in the midst of trying to find people to watch the kids while we are at work (when my sister leaves in 10 days). This is very hard and expensive. We are patiently waiting for God to reveal just who that might be. Again, prayers would be appreciated.
Oh Laura — you are AMAZING. In such a hard situation you are trusting God. One day I believe you will see how what you thought were mistakes have worked together for the good.
Dear Laura, praying for you as you deal with your daughter’s situation. We want God’s best for our children and it pains us when they are seemingly walking away from it. If we could just let them see what could be! But, yes. Our good and loving God is in control. I have to remind myself that everyday, every minute.
Praying for you Laura nd your family in this very hard circumstance. Keep hoping in God. And persevering in meeting the needs of you grandchildren. These are wonderful verses Dee has us considering today from Psalm 116:1-2 God is listening to you and with you in this all the way.
Dear Laura…praying for a breakthro in your tough situation. God always honors faith in Him, & He will honor you. Praying for wisdom, strength & provision in every way!
Laura, praying that you will find people to watch your grandchildren….what a blessing that you’ve had your sister there to help you for a while, and that your relationship with her has grown closer.
8. Read Psalm 116:1-2 and explain why, here, the psalmist is thankful.
Because God heard his voice and his pleas for mercy. Oh my, it is like I haven’t read this Psalm before- all of it is radioactive right now.
8. Read Psalm 116:1-2 and explain why, here, the psalmist is thankful.
Because the Lord inclined His ear to him. God listened to him when he was in distress and gave deliverance. Many people may be crying out to the Lord, but He hears ME among the millions when I cry out to Him. Even now.
9. Share an answer to prayer you had this summer.
Since early spring, my team of three has been practicing for the National SkillsUSA contest. It was very demanding of my time and there were days I got discouraged for various reasons. I prayed my students and I will be there for the long haul. And we did! In spite of our crazy schedules, we made it through state contest, won first and then moved on to Nationals where the kids won a bronze medal. I cried when their team’s name was announced. It was beyond what I could hope for.
10. Sometimes His answers are rescues from circumstances, but perhaps more often, rescues from our own sinful ways. Can you share an answer like that?
Ever since our daughter told us she wanted to move to the state of Washington, I prayed God will intervene and get her a job close by. Hah! I told God I will miss her too much, WA is soooo far, I am afraid for her safety and in case she needs something it will be too far to just up and leave without much notice at my job etc… etc. Now, she is in WA looking for a job teaching English as a second language (her initial job offer fell through). And am telling God, “see-her plans did not work out.” I have been realizing the idol of control and comfort is rearing their ugly heads. Forgive me, Lord. God is reminding me He is in control. As much as it pains me to see her struggle, I know He is wooing her to Himself and will not abandon her. How deceiving my heart can be! God has answered my prayers with “wait on me, Bing. You will see my goodness, in the land of the living.
Tuesday, If it had not been for the Lord
6. Read Psalm 124
A. What do you learn about this life and our help from this psalm?
Trouble, opposition to us and even personal attacks would totally over come us if it weren’t for the Lord who is on our side. Verse 8 is a powerful promise. “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” It is important for me to remember He is Creator and Lord of heaven and earth, all things and everyone.
B. What our some of the metaphors from this psalm that resonate with you?
Verses 3-5 speaking of some rising up against us and anger kindled against us.
Verse 7 escaping like a bird from a snare and the snare broken
7. Share a trouble you faced this summer and how the Lord helped you.
My husband and I went through a hard thing early in the summer with one of our children and their spouse. In a confrontation they “rose up” against us in anger so to speak and emotionally it felt like a flood and raging waters but “blessed be the Lord” who did not give us over but broke the snare. In answer to much prayer God allowed reconciliation and a rebuilding of the relationship to begin between us. Our help truly came as we called on the Lord.
Oh Bev — what hope this last story gives.
One of my favorite verses is the benediction from Romans 15:13 that says “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”
I’ve always loved that verse too Bev! 🙂
WEDNESDAY, BECAUSE HE BENDS DOWN TO LISTEN
8. Read Psalm 116:1-2 and explain why, here, the psalmist is thankful.
Because God heard his prayers and really listened. He felt acknowledged by the Lord. He knew he had an answer form God.
9. Share an answer to prayer you had this summer.
10. Sometimes His answers are rescues from circumstances, but perhaps more often, rescues from our own sinful ways. Can you share an answer like that?
After the verbal altercation with our son and his wife earlier in the summer I knew I had to let go of a lot of emotion and really seek God for a right heart attitude and practice forgiveness toward them and choose to love in spite of some deep hurt and disappointment. God in His grace allowed us to have a good and meaningful time together late in the summer with all of our children celebrating our 50th anniversary. Our son and his wife expressed their appreciation and gratitude for that special time we had together.
My sinful heart could just as easily carry bitterness and anger toward them but for Jesus. The enemy wants to tear families apart and works toward the end but Praise God for his rescue in answer to prayer.
2. this weekend we drove to Nashville to see my husbands siblings and parents for the first time since his parents left my sons weddding in a huff last summer and decided to get divorced on the way home last year (after 50 years) they did not come to Abbys (my daughter) wedding that aug. LOTS of hurt feelings. Pauls (my husband) dad is 81 and his mom is 72 with lots of mental health issues as well as health issues, they drove up together, stayed in the same hotel room and pretended like nothing had happened all weekend….it was SO WEIRD. With all the weird, strangeness it was a great weekend of love and fellowship. no one yelled, all 7 children got along, we all told his mom and dad how much we loved them, his dad said how sorry he was for not being at the weddings and the divorce (which was not his idea) and my husbands siblings had a honest talk about the abuse (whch they call “the crazy”) that they endured while growing up at the hands of their mom. they choose to forgive. they really want to do what is best to help their parents as they decline. the amount of forgiveness and grace in that room was amazing and it was clearly from GOD.
God met my in church this sunday by making it so we could watch my son in law give the lesson on fb live. He taught about filters and how we need to look at ourselves and others through Gods filter and not the worlds. Pauls mom is almost deaf and couldnt hear so i put it on my phone and put head phones in her good ear, she heard it on a delay from all of us. they played “no longer a slave to fear, I am a child of God” at the end and she sang along with all her heart….3 beats behind…..off tune… it was so horrible yet beautiful that she was soaking up the fact that she is indeed a child of God and is loved dearly.
Love this story about your son and mother-in-law!
5. I got to spend a day with a very dear friend this summer who is in the same stage of life I am in….letting go of children as they grow up. we cried and laughed and sat on a porch drinking coffer for HOURS. it was the most healing day I have had in years. what a blessing to be able to share your heart and be understood. we have both been home schoolingmoms in ministry for our entire adult lives. how do you find a new normal? how do you parent adults? they don’t want us to interfere but they want us to make their dr. apt. for them…and i am also trying to raise two very hurt young woman without the help of their older siblings being around. NO ONE IS WHERE I AM AT IN LIFE and it is lonely. my sweet friend made it way less so.
Cindy, “letting children go as they grow up….” I’m with you, sister! What a blessing and a gift to spend that time with your friend who understands! I’ve had to “let go” of my two boys who both moved far away and it is hard. I am learning the new “rules”…..my one son, if I “bother” him too much with sending texts, seems to punish me by refusing to communicate with me at all for a long time. I’m just not really a part of his life anymore, and it’s hard!
That is hard. I am praying for that son, Susan. Often what changes them is having children themselves! But you are good to let go in so far as it lies within you! 🙂
im so sorry Susan! I have 2 left at home so i have no idea how hard it would be for ALL of them to be gone. praying for you and for your sons.
Thank you Cindy! I still have my 17 year old daughter at home and we are very close! But I know she can’t be my source of security. My husband was on phone with my 23 yr old son as I got home from work tonight….had it on speaker and my husband said say hi to your mom, son said I have to go now. My husband insisted so he did talk to me but made me feel bad; didn’t have much to say to me. I’m tired of feeling like the dog begging for scraps. My husband asks me if I am bothering him and texting him stupid stuff and I’m not, but I said that wouldn’t excuse his treatment of me as his mom anyway.
When reading this Psalm, I can’t help but think of this song!
https://youtu.be/Djsjh3BLsZ0
I did a devotion with Emma that talked about living in HARMONY with one another. Lily and her best friend have been singing duets together and Lily picks up the harmony. As I thought of this word it occurred to me that the harmony is not the SAME it just goes well with….we are not called to agree with everyone, do the same thing as everyone else, sound or look the same, we are called to listen to others and then live along side them in a way that makes them “sound” the best they can.
Wow Cyndi, what wonderful stories & evidences of God’s grace & power at work!
Ps 116: my twin sister & I used to sing this psalm together, in our teens & as young adults. I’ve always loved it 🙂 The psalmist is thankful & says he loves the Lord because” He hears” his voice, & “inclines His ear” unto him. How amazing to think the the LORD of Heaven & earth bends down to listen to each of us when we cry out to Him! If I truly let this sink in, I would be praying more earnestly.
I’ve been praying for my neighbor ladies & that the Lord will open doors for me to connect & encourage them. I met 2 new ones this summer who both have need for friendship & encouragement, & I see the beginnings of a relationship forming. I’m having a jewelry party in 2 weeks & am asking all of them to come. Wish you could all come too!! 🙂
6. Read Psalm 124
A. What do you learn about this life and our help from this psalm?
There will be times in this life when we will be in trouble – circumstances, the anger or abuse of other people aimed at us. Our Helper is God and He will provide a way of escape.
B. What are some of the metaphors from this psalm that resonate with you?
Being “torn by their teeth” seems to be a metaphor for having cruel words aimed at you, or lies said about you or having your character assassinated. Escaping like a bird out of a fowler’s snare – the first thing a bird would do would be to fly up and away; it’s a picture of freedom and light-ness as you trust and rest in Him.
7. Share a trouble you faced this summer and how the Lord helped you.
The only big trouble I can think of facing this summer has just been adjusting to a new normal as my two sons moved away to other states, leaving me with my daughter who now feels like an only child, though she was in sixth grade when her one brother went off to college so she’s been used to being the only one at home. It’s been a big adjustment with a lot of tears and missing them. I have felt uneasy about this new phase of life I’m entering and wondering what it will be like in two years when my daughter goes off to college. I know that I need to draw closer to the Lord as He is the only One who promises to never leave me, and I know that He must have something in store for me, I just don’t know what that is yet.
Susan–praying right now for this–“I know that He must have something in store for me, I just don’t know what that is yet.”, and for your relationships with your boys. You love them SO well, and I am sure as they grow and mature they will see more and more the gift of a mom they have, but this season you are in now sounds really hard. I am praying too you can find a new Church and a group of women who you can connect with & relate with. You are a treasure with so much to offer others, and so much to love in you!
12.
A. The Lord delivered the psalmist from the cords of death that entangled him, the anguish of the grave and the distress and sorrow that had overcome him. His response should be to return to his rest, for the Lord has been good to him.
B. In verse 8, the psalmist says that the Lord has delivered him from death, tears from his eyes and kept his feet from stumbling. In verse 9 he will respond by walking before the Lord in the land of the living.
13. It wasn’t so much this summer, but we lost my mother in law in January. This lady was strong in her relationship with Christ and loved me as her own. I can see how the Lord has helped ease that pain as we finalized her things and had the auction this summer. Though it was hard to see his parents life sold on the front lawn, the Lord gave us all a great peace and strength to carry on.
Dear Susan…it’s been an adjustment for me being an empty nester too. My youngest son also felt like an only child when his bro & sis left. But I treasure that time I had alone with him, & now he has moved to DC. They are all on East coast. My sister said to me when I was insecure about it; ” I’m sure the Lord will fill your nest with wonderful things”, & He is doing that. I have more time & energy to focus on others in need in my neighborhood & all around me. Time for new relationships. So I pray that He fills your nest too, & that u can enjoy this time with your daughter 🙂
12. Ps 116:3-9 A).The Lord delivered his soul from death & the terrors of Sheol, & sorrow & anguish. His response was to instruct his soul to “return to your rest, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you”!
B). vs 8…he was delivered from death, his eyes from tears, & his feet from falling & stumbling…vs 9…that he would walk before the Lord in the land of the LIVING….Choose Life not death!
13). I am facing grief over my mother in Australia who has Alzheimers & I see her memory fading, & her person changing. Also grieving for my dear Dad who is her primary caregiver, & the burden he is carrying. My sister is close by & very involved but it is a load on her too. How I long to be there helping out & spending time with them. I’m praying & asking the Lord for the right timing for a trip to visit. Maybe He wants me to get some family leave & go for a bigger chunk of time than my usual 3 weeks a yr? Praying that God will prepare & soften my husband’s heart so I can go with his blessing when the time comes. Appreciate prayers for wisdom & guidance here. Thanks 🙂
Jenny, agreeing with your prayer in this really hard situation!
Oh Jenny, my mom has Alzheimer’s too. It is so hard to watch the person they once were fade away. My heart goes out to you! My mom still knows us, but my bleakest time was a year ago when she had a stroke and I stayed at the hospital one night and she did not know me at all. Thank God that time was only temporary. It’s just sad and breaks your heart, I know. My dad also cares for her with our help-me and my two sisters. I hope you can get home to spend time with your mom!
8. Read Psalm 116:1-2 and explain why, here, the psalmist is thankful.
He is thankful that God has listened to him; that he has heard him.
9. Share an answer to prayer you had this summer.
Well, I’m afraid to say anything here. Every time (lately) I think He has answered a prayer it lies up in my face. However, when things go relatively smoothly without my interference, that is when I believe He is moving. Yesterday, after I had asked one of my colleagues if her daughter might help us out with babysitting, her daughter agreed to help us. Thank you Jesus!
10. Sometimes His answers are rescues from circumstances, but perhaps more often, rescues from our own sinful ways. Can you share an answer like that?
I suppose all the trouble we are going through distracts me from myself! I don’t have time to think of food and what I will be eating these days. I’m not focusing on it.
11. Share the answer to 10 with someone this week and report.
A. From what did the Lord deliver the psalmist according to verse 3, and what, according to verse 7 should be his response?
From death, distress and anguish. Response should be resting in the Lord and remembering His bountiful dealings.
B. From what did the Lord deliver the psalmist according to verse 8, and what, according to verse 9, should be his response?
Soul from death, eyes from tears and feet from stumbling
Response: To continue to walk with the Lord
13. Have you faced grief this summer? Is the Lord helping you through it? Explain.
I think as a whole, I am more sensitive to the spiritual needs of people close to me. I grieve their loss of closeness to the Lord, the possible joy they could experience with Him and His peace.
I am accepting of God’s control over the lives of my loved ones, knowing He loves them and continue to woo them to Himself. And I can keep on asking, knocking and praying as He so leads.
12. Read Psalm 116:3-9
A. From what did the Lord deliver the psalmist according to verse 3, and what, according to verse 7 should be his response?
He is delivered from death. He should remain calm and not worry. God is faithful always.
B. From what did the Lord deliver the psalmist according to verse 8, and what, according to verse 9, should be his response?
He again, was delivered from death. He will walk with the Lord, meaning he will continue to remain faithful so he will be with Jesus in heaven.
13. Have you faced grief this summer? Is the Lord helping you through it? Explain.
Yes. I don’t know if He is helping me; it all seems like a terrible nightmare. I do think He is working things out for us with respect to the children. We were given temporary guardianship yesterday, but only for 2 months. I don’t understand that part. But, my grief comes because my daughter is lost. As a mother, I feel awful pain inside that is not being comforted right now. I fear for her life. I am hanging on (clinging) to Him in this situation.
14. Have you experienced the sense of His presence this summer? If so, share.
Not really; He is quiet in the place I wish He would move (my daughter). I do think some things have gone a bit smoother than usual with respect to having faith that He will provide us a way to manage in our difficult lives right now. When we have a need, it seems that He comes through with a solution not long after the need is recognized. Here are a few of those blessings: my sister being able help us, the smoothest start to school that I can remember (great kids, content, great teaching partner, lovely outdoorsy room – our renovation of the school isn’t complete and we are nearly teaching outside!), me not working my second job this fall, guardianship going through, sweet children (not brats), and 2 sitters to assist when my sister leaves next Saturday.
15. If you were with us in July when we looked at The Song, how did the Shulammite experience both His absence and His presence?
She didn’t like his absence as I recall. She went searching for him everywhere, right? She remembered the times when they had been together. She absolutely loved him being with her; fawning all over him, declaring his sweetness to all.
Dear Laura, praying that the Lord will continue to surprise you with His provision & loving kindness. The blessings you listed are truly wonderful answers from Him! I pray too that you will feel His presence & comfort & strength.
Laura, your answers to #14 show His presence “working behind the scenes”, as it were….to provide your sister’s visit and help, a smooth start to school, your ‘outdoorsy classroom’, the guardianship going through, and sweet children, and the sitters….yes, He is with you, Laura! Praying for you right now!
Laura — so glad you can see His blessings in a time when “He is quiet in the place I wish He would move…” That helps you cling to Him. It is hard when He seems absent, yet we know He is not. Praying for you, dear one.
He blesses us with His gifts, but nothing compares to His presence. That is what the psalmist longs for in my favorite psalm, Psalm 42. But if you are in a time of feeling more of His absence, I love what Keller says: “the sense of His absence means you have known His presence.”
14. Have you experienced the sense of His presence this summer? If so, share.
Many times. Just a more quiet sense of presence that pervades even the most mundane days.
16. Share two God sightings from this summer that you do not want to forget!
The blessing of this blog surely is one as I come back here time and time again to find solace, friendship and the spirit of God permeating our conversations and musings.
The support of my husband through the rigors of extended responsibility at school. He had to give up a week of work to be with me in Louisville, KY for the SkillsUSA national contest. It was very demanding physically for me but he made sure we were provided for.
I have experienced His presence when I’ve been at the Lake; listening, swimming, walking reading, soaking in His creation & the quiet. Also in fellowship with a sister in the Lord, who is my neighbor!
2 God sightings I don’t want to forget: 1)My daughter was able to give her big MBA presentation without panic or nervousness, & has grown in many healthy ways this summer. 2) the Lord supplied the idea & the time to go to Elkhardt Lake by myself for 2 days, & I was totally refreshed in body, mind & soul…filled to the brim with His goodness 🙂
8. Read Psalm 116:1-2 and explain why, here, the psalmist is thankful.
Because the Lord heard him when he cried for mercy; the Lord listened.
9. Share an answer to prayer you had this summer.
I had prayed for the Lord to protect my daughter and me when we left for Niagara Falls, NY. The tire on our car blew out; I said to my daughter “Well, the Lord doesn’t ‘heal’ tires, but He kept us safe when the tire blew and sent good people to help us!” I am still amazed at how quickly and easily I pulled off the road and never lost control of the car; a young man pulled over immediately and offered his help; I called AAA and they sent a man to put the spare on, and the Goodyear Auto store in Niagara Falls gave us A+ above and beyond help and service, and we had a great time on our trip!
10. Sometimes His answers are rescues from circumstances, but perhaps more often, rescues from our own sinful ways. Can you share an answer like that?
Well, because I have a problem with looking to other people for my affirmation and security, depending on them more than on the Lord, I do wonder if that is why my sons’ lives took paths that took them far away? A friendship that I would’ve described as my closest, best friend went away a few years ago, too. I have some friends, but none on that level; the kind where I can share anything without fear. I seem to have to go through life just feeling lonely a lot of the time. My husband, though it’s not his fault, has been absolutely consumed by his job for the last few years, and it only seems to get worse. I’m getting used to doing things by myself. Maybe because I’m a slow learner and I still run to other things instead of to God.
12. Read Psalm 116:3-9
A. From what did the Lord deliver the psalmist according to verse 3, and what, according to verse 7, should be his response?
Whatever his trouble, he describes it as being entangled by the cords of death and he was in anguish; overcome by trouble and sorrow. In verse 7, he tells his soul to be at rest because the Lord has been good to him.
B. From what did the Lord deliver the psalmist according to verse 8, and what, according to verse 9, should be his response?
The Lord delivered him from death, from crying all the time, and from stumbling (perhaps removed obstacles or things that seemed to block him from God, or feeling weak and weary?) His response is that he “walks before the Lord”….I take that to mean that He listens to God and obeys Him.
13. Have you faced grief this summer? Is the Lord helping you through it? Explain.
Oh I sound like a broken record….I grieve the “loss” of my two sons who moved to TX and FL. Sometimes when I was cooking something I would start to cry, remembering how I would make that for one of them when they were home for dinner, but there won’t be any dinners at home with us anymore. My son who is also in the Navy can’t come home until next April, and that will be only a few days for his wedding (he is married legally at the courthouse but the ‘real wedding’ is next spring). I have lots of pictures all over of my kids and I look at them and feel sad. But, I must remind myself that the Lord has been good to me….for a young 20 year old who had severe stage 4 endometriosis, I wondered if I would ever be able to have children (my older sister had it too and was unable to have children). God allowed me to have 3 wonderful children and many years of being able to work “prn” – 1 or 2 days a week and to be home with them and we were very close. Like Jenny, I also grieve the loss of my mom as I once knew her as her Alzheimer’s progresses. I used to watch my mom when I was young getting ready to go out somewhere….she always dressed beautifully and did her hair and make-up, put on her jewelry and always perfume. Now my sister and I help her take a bath and she’ll wear the same clothes for days (I sneak her clothes out of the closet to take them home to wash). After a bath, and she’ll put on some lipstick and comb her hair, I think to myself now that looks like my mom! But the Lord has been good to me because my mom and dad have lived to be 90 and I’m 53….I am blessed to have my parents still here, still able to live in their own place with our help. My daughter who is still in HS is also a blessing to me as she enjoys being with me and I with her.