A hearty welcome to our sisters from “across the pond” our neighboring Canada, and every corner of the United States. We are so glad, whether silently or actively, that you are joining us in a month of thanksgivings!
We will continue with verses 2-5 of “For The Beauty of the Earth” to help us thank Him. Try memorizing a few or all of the verses of this great hymn to sing throughout the day!
We will begin with:
For the wonder of each hour!
This picture is from last week in my hometown, a tourist spot on the thumb of Wisconsin that juts into Lake Michigan. I love this picture for I often think:
“beauty shared is twice the joy.”
A few of our longtime sojourners sent me pictures of the
“wonder” of their corner of the world.
This from Susan in Akron, Ohio
Susan hiked in a nearby park and then meditated with her Bible on a bench. She reflected:
The leaves from so many kinds of trees… make a mosaic of different colors, sizes, and shapes. I read this quote recently: ‘The universe unfolds in God, who fills it completely. Hence, there is a mystical meaning to be found in a leaf.” And because we’ve still had warm days and not a deep freeze at night, the crickets are still singing… God could have made a soundless world, but He gave us birds that chirp and even insects that make music. I can go to the park feeling empty, and come away feeling full.
This from Sharon in Morehead, North Carolina
Sharon experienced the power of God through a hurricane that caused her family to leave their home for a year. She recently was able to return, so appreciating the peace and calm that she has now, and the preservation of her loved ones. When she awakens she always says, “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” She is thankful simply to be alive and to have the health to enjoy it.
This from Rebecca in De Soto, Kansas
When it is warm, Rebecca sits on her porch to have her time with the Lord. When it is cold, she gazes outside her window in wonder at the transformation of her world.
Nila, hiking with her little ones in her state of Montana
Diane, from New Brunswick, Canada
Diane lives in the wide open spaces of Canada, often camping and kayaking, or driving through the beauty.
This is from Patti, a silent follower from Seattle
Creation should fill us with wonder,
but there is so much more.
In Thorton Wilder’s Our Town, Emily, who has died,
is allowed to come back to see earth again for a day,
and she has a fresh appreciation
for the wonder of each hour.
Before Emily is taken back to heaven, she cries:
Wait! One more look. Good-bye , Good-bye world. Good-bye, Grover’s Corners….Mama and Papa. Good-bye to clocks ticking….and Mama’s sunflowers. And food and coffee. And new ironed dresses and hot baths….and sleeping and waking up. Oh, earth, you are too wonderful for anybody to realize you. Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it–every, every minute?
The answer?
The saints and the poets — they do, some.
We have a few poets here, but all of us are saints, so should learn to seize “the wonder of each hour.” Waking up, fresh brewed coffee, the quiet of the morning, the ability to hear and see, and the realization that “in Him we live and move and have our being.'” Let’s ask Him for eyes to see and a heart to appreciate “the wonder of each hour.”
Sunday:
- What stood out to you from the above and why?
- Pray here for the Lord to open your eyes to the wonder of each hour.
Monday: For the Wonder of Each Hour
Here is the 2nd verse from For The Beauty. Sing it and learn it, if you can.
For the wonder of each hour
of the day and of the night,
hill and vale and tree and flower,
sun and moon and stars of light,
Lord of all, to Thee we raise, this our hymn of grateful praise.
3. Here are some verses with the word “wonder” in them — see if any of them spark a specific memory or thought for which to thank Him.
- He is the one you praise, he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes. (Deut. 10:21)
- Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God’s wonders. (Job 37:14)
- Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law. (Psalm 119:18)
Tuesday: For the joy of human love
Prepare your heart with this:
Indeed, we have a family here and experience “the joy of human love” both with our individual families and with one another.
I wish I could post from everyone — but this gives you an idea of how many of our longer sojourners know “the joy of human love.”
(Many of us have prayed for Diane’s daughter Krista who had such a hard first marriage and custody battle. Last weekend she became engaged to a “kind Christian man.”)
(Jill from Montana with her family: her husband Marc, whom she says loves her better than she deserves, and her sons Desmond and Jaxter — all doing what they love.)
(Dawn from Michigan with her family)
(Julie’s Grandchildren)
(Nila with two children of a friend)
4. Meditate on the following verses and then share any comments or specific ways to praise God for the gift of a a particular person. Being specific is good!
A. Proverbs 27:9
B. Psalm 127:3
C. Proverbs 17:6
D. Ecclesiates 4:9-12
5. This verse also praises God for “all gentle thoughts and mild.” Meditate on this and comment.
Wednesday: For Thy Church Forevermore
One of the great evidences to me that Christianity is true is the bond we can feel with someone who is different from us in so many ways: age, nationality, education, and even language. I felt it two weeks ago when giving a retreat for The Manhattan Bible Church which has all ages and social classes and was about a third Hispanic, a third African-American, and a third Caucasian. There was simply no segregation by age, race, or anything that often separates secular people — just a great bond of love because of Jesus. Two friends particularly delighted me: Tammy and Heather, who had been thrown together as roommates at an exclusive girls’ school. Heather’s mother was not sure about Tammy, a Puerto Rican from the Bronx. Yet it was Tammy who kept Heather on the straight and narrow at college, and Heather’s mother eventually thanked Tammy. And now Tammy was bringing Heather to a retreat where Heather was truly experiencing God and wanting more of what she saw: believers who truly loved one another because of the Spirit of God binding them together. Blest be the Tie that binds!
6. Thank God for the bond of love you share with a believer or believers who are really quite different from you. Be specific.
7. Often the bond of Christ’s blood is stronger than the bond of biological blood. Have you experienced this? If so, share, and give thanks.
8. Read Psalm 133 and share the main point.
9. Read the following short blog post and comment. https://artandtheology.org/2017/08/15/aarons-beard-by-eugene-h-peterson/
Thursday-Friday: For Thyself, Best Gift Divine
If you have a favorite version of this great hymn from You-Tube — please share! (Let’s skip the Mormon ones however!)
Sing:
For Thyself, best Gift Divine.
To our race so freely given,
For that great, great love of Thine,
Peace on earth and joy in Heaven.
Lord of all, to Thee we raise, this our hymn of grateful praise.
10. In the Song of Songs, the daughters of Jerusalem ask the Shulammite maiden: “How is your Beloved better than others?” Name the ways Jesus is better than the founders of other religions, or, than any of your idols. Be specific.
11. Our own Laura asked, “What does ‘to our race so freely given” mean. Comment?
12. Work on memorizing a verse or two or more from “For The Beauty.” Report what you have learned and keep singing!
Saturday: What Stuck?
To find out if spaghetti is done, you throw a piece and see if it sticks to the wall.
13. What stuck from this week’s study and why?
100 comments
1. What stood out to you from the above and why?
The pictures of the places where some of my sisters here on the blog live, and the pictures of their families! I am one who gets caught up in the tasks of daily life forgetting to be thankful for my hands, the movement of them, my mind and the ability to plan, and others around me. I tend to focus on unfinished tasks and frustration can follow. Instead of that, I need to take those moments and embracing in thankfulness as opposed to fret.
I believe God made us to crave being outside to enjoy what He has created for it reflects who He is..I can’t help but look at some of those pictures above and be in wonder but when you are there -oh -and Patti’s picture with the mountain made me stop in my tracks. I would love to live around mountains or by an ocean!! When visiting with Dee one thing I remember besides the sunsets is the sound of the lake lapping against the rocks as I slept at night. I was so glad my windows were open.
I have to add that Susan’s picture and comment really spoke to me. God could have created a world without noise but he didn’t. I was thinking about how musical it is with birds singing too.
Love your reflections, Rebecca — both on creation and our bloggers!
Rebecca–I love this “I believe God made us to crave being outside to enjoy what He has created for it reflects who He is..”
I too enjoyed the pictures of our beautiful world and our precious sisters in Christ!
1. What stood out to you from the above and why? I, like Rebecca, am giddy at all the photos. I am usually quite content in my little corner of the world but pictures like these make me itch to see the rest of His work! Like wanting to finish a book series. They are all beautiful but even lovelier is I cannot look at the image without imagining the blog sister at my side marveling at His beauty with me. Like you said, Dee, “beauty shared is twice the joy.” What fun it would be to travel and share in person the corners we occupy for a minute.
2. Pray here for the Lord to open your eyes to the wonder of each hour. Yes, Lord, may I see more clearly each day the precious hours you give to delight in your work and in doing your work. To delight at your presence each hour but to not loose sight of eternity. Now matters, oh so much, but eternity matters more. Thank you, Jesus, May our eyes see as you would have us see!
PS. A small detail, but for my son’s sake… there is a typo on the caption of my photo. My sons are Desmond and Jaxter (not Jasper). 😊❤️ Thanks for sharing everyone’s photos, Dee, such a lovely idea.
I’ll fix that right away, Jill. So sorry! I like Jaxter better — what is the history of your boys’ unusual names?
Thank you, Dee!
Nothing too special about the names, I’m afraid… Desmond was a name from a book of names that my husband liked and as the first boy my husband wanted to name him and I acquiesced (we have never disagreed so much as we did in baby names!!). When the second came along we ended up combining a couple common names and the result was Jaxter. We like it as does he but he became accustomed VERY young to people having to always ask a second time about his name. He knew by the age of 3 how to spell his name because people would ask his name and he would just spell it for them … “My name is Jaxter J A X T E R.” 😂
Their middle names are more ‘special’ they are namesaked for my father-in-law and my mom’s dad (he is the saint i gave thanks for last week).
Happy Sunday all!
Loved reading about it! Thanks! 🙂
1. What stood out to you from the above and why?
Oh I LOVE seeing all the pictures and thoughts from my sisters here. I had meant to get a picture in—so sorry!
The beauty of His creation all around us is truly awe inspiring. To look at the tiniest flower, to these grand sunset and mountains, and know that it is His very handiwork is just incredible to me. It is all His gift to us and a glimpse of the imperishable inheritance that awaits.
I love this prompting to seize “the wonder of each hour”. I need this refreshment. It saddens me to think how many times I fail to see His wonder, my thoughts are so prone to wander, but I am so thankful for this encouragement to open my eyes anew.
3. Here are some verses with the word “wonder” in them — see if any of them spark a specific memory or thought for which to thank Him.
• He is the one you praise, he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes. (Deut. 10:21)
” who performed for you” …”you saw with your own eyes”—He is so personal, and loves us so much He performs wonders just for us. I think of sunsets viewed from my back window that I glimpse at while cleaning the kitchen—and there isn’t time to grab anyone else for it’ll be gone before they can get there to see it, but He gives it to me. It’s hard sometimes, so humbling really, to believe we are each so loved by Him He does beautiful works just for our eyes.
4. Meditate on the following verses and then share any comments or specific ways to praise God for the gift of a a particular person. Being specific is good!
A. Proverbs 27:9-Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.
Recently a friend and prayer partner gave me counsel with a parenting issue that was like gold. I am still amazed at how her wisdom changed the course of how my feelings were leading my mind to act, and brought such beautiful fruit in our family.
B. Psalm 127:3- Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.
I thank God for my 3 children, each so unique and each have been used by Him to shape and refine me.
C. Proverbs 17:6- Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.
This made me think of my grandmother! She gave me the gift of true unconditional love. I remember my oldest sister spoke at her funeral and said she loved in a way that made everyone think they were the favorite. In my mind I was thinking I really was the favorite! But she really just loved us all that way, so deep, so like Him.
D. Ecclesiates 4:9-12- Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
My husband put the first 2 verses (9-10) on a plaque he made me when we were in high school. I thank God for the incredible gift of my husband, a man who seeks after God with a humble heart.
As always, wonderful answers from our dear Lizzy.
Carol Courageously
Welcome, Carol. Would love to have you jump in with us!
Welcome Carol! Glad you are joining us!
Sunday:
What stood out to you from the above and why? – WOW all of God’s beauty in the pictures posted. There is no explaining away that God is the painter of the earth. I also loved this, “Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it–every, every minute?” This made me stop to think that I can just wish the days away and not stop to realize the beauty that God has put before me, or the ‘fixes’ that God did for my mess up each day. I find it sad that I don’t always stop to thank Him for all he does for me until it is too late.
Pray here for the Lord to open your eyes to the wonder of each hour. – Lord, please help me to slow down, to breathe in everything you have created around me. Help me to find the goodness you have provide me, each minute of every day. Help me to always be appreciative of the blessings you provide to me each day. I want to be a grateful vessel so others can see your goodness in a world of sadness. Thank you Lord for hearing my cries and always being there for me.
Julie, we sure do live in a world of sadness; how wonderful that you are aware of the needs of those around you, wanting to show His goodness through your life.
Recommended from a friend!
Welcome Debby!
Welcome Debby!
Glad to have you Debby — now that your first comment is approved you can jump in any time.
So glad for this series on thankfulness. Just love seeing the beautiful scenes of the country and of the families!
Glad to have you here, Shirley!
Sunday:
1. What stood out to you from the above and why?
Thank you very much for sharing the earth’s beautiful landscape through the pictures submitted by our blog sisters. Wow-beautiful! Lord of all to thee we raise, This our hymn of grateful praise.
“For the wonder of each hour”-what a fitting title for this week, Dee. As I think of Mom, possibly, leaving this earth, I am made more aware of being mindful of every minute I live, every breath I take and not to take for granted the “wonder of each hour”. Not take for granted every time I get to see her from a distance through a video call. I see life ebbing away but the hour hasn’t lost its wonder.
Today, our church ordained two godly men to be deacons. As my husband-pastor prayed and as other deacons, laid their hands on these men, there was such a holy hush that very hour. Old and young alike are brought to a moment of a God-visitation. “Eyes to see and a heart to appreciate”.
2. Pray here for the Lord to open your eyes to the wonder of each hour.That I may see you, Lord in all the wonders of each hour. That I will not miss you, your very being, the unfolding of your never-changing character, in times of joy, in times of sadness.
I’m sure that is so true with your mother so close to leaving. I so felt that with Steve.
Dee ~ Wow! So good to see photos from other blog sisters!!
(Small correction on photo with me & my guitar. The children are a friend’s children, not grandchildren. First photo with me by waterfall does include grandchildren.)
Grateful for all the varied beauty shared from across our country and Canada. Grateful for eyes that are able to behold beauty, for there are many who are blind and do not have this breath-taking gift of sight.
Nila–I love seeing all your pictures! I see such joy in your eyes!
Nila, love your picture and love seeing you with your guitar!
I made that correction, Nila. Nice to see you teaching others to play — right?
Thank you Dee 🙂
Yes, I have taught guitar students for over 30 years and continue to teach children and adults 🙂
Nila, no matter who those children belong to, I love that photo of you with your guitar, and you look like you are patiently teaching!
3. Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God’s wonders. (Job 37:14)
oh Job! I love the lines where God admonishes Job, reminding him that God made the heavens and Earth, and God made the oceans. I love it when God says (paraphrase), “how dare you question Me.” It reminds me that He is in charge; NOT ME.
“Then the Lord answered Job from the whirlwind: “Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words? Brace yourself like a man, because I have some questions for you, and you must answer them. “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you know so much. Who determined its dimensions and stretched out the surveying line? as the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy? “Who kept the sea inside its boundaries as it burst from the womb, and as I clothed it with clouds and wrapped it in thick darkness?”
Job 38:1-5, 7-9 NLT
https://www.bible.com/116/job.38.1-5,7-9.nlt
We have raked and raked and raked (well my husband blew them) those beautiful leaves; it never ends! We had a massive wind storm where the heavens exploded with buckets of rain the other night. We were not in charge. Gusts up to 50-60 mph and it shook our house. It is essential to wait until just the right moment to complete your raking, or you will waste precious time (or which I have none to waste). As my husband and I did the dirty deed, I looked up an noticed the tops of several trees with their still intact leaves. I pointed to them and sighed. Ugh, will we ever finish?! I guess I can say that I am thankful that we are strong enough and able to rake; we have good health! Thank You Lord for our health.
The other natural beauty is the moon. I am getting ready to teach about the moon in my astronomy class. I ask my students to keep a “moon chart” for 1 month. They have to view the moon and draw what they see. Here is an interesting fact… the moon rotates (about an axis) and revolves (around Earth) at the same basic rate. It is called synchronous rotation and is the reason we never see the “dark side of the moon.” In laymen’s terms it means that it takes as long to make one rotation as it does to make one revolution; about 27 days. The moon has been a huge beacon in the night sky the past few days. Love it! Thank You Lord for your wonders!
Our scientist! 🙂
Laura, I always love it when you share your scientific facts with us!
Susan, me too!
3. He is the one you praise, he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes. (Deut. 10:21)
This takes me back to a season of harvest (and innocence) when God brought some singles into our singles group who came to know Jesus. It put me in wonder of His power in them for I had the privilege to help disciple them one on one so I got t see first hand His life in them as a babe and then growing over the years, and the delight they had for God-oh.
I loved all those beautiful nature pictures and the hearts that took them. I love the change of seasons and even love the chill. Leaves are changing and corn is being harvested here. Seasons in farm country means a change in the type of work that keep farmers busy year round. Looking forward to the winter when theres plenty of work but less time pressure for my husband to get it done.
Loved “for the hearts that took them.”
Deb, it is sweet to have you with us! I come from a family of farmers in Arkansas on my mom’s side. So I grew up spending time in the summers there with my uncle who has a lot of land surrounded by the boston mountain range; lots of cows and pigs and it is set in a beautiful place. I loved to explore there as a child. It was so much like little house on the prairie-except for the mountains.
4. Meditate on the following verses and then share any comments or specific ways to praise God for the gift of a a particular person. Being specific is good!
A. Proverbs 27:9 Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.
I love this word picture from God for it is true. A friend who loves those around her like He does brings joy to my heart just being around her. So I have a dear friend on the blog here-won’t name any names-:) who, recently out of heartfelt advice, told me she is praying for me because she desires for me to grow more in confidence and then went on to a few reasons why I should be confident. Her advice brought joy and hope to my heart instead of condemnation. (That is how I can getll it is heartfelt and from God). I started thinking that these skill sets God has given me, He made in me and being confident in them delights Him and it helps me to use them effectively to glorify Him as He desired in the first place. Lack of confidence freezes me and I can’t use them or grow in them as effectively as God wants. So I am growing more in confidence.
B. Psalm 127:3, Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him.
All four of my boys are God’s gift to me, in many ways for they sharpen me and have helped me grow more dependent on God. Also, the wonder through them, again that it is He who does the work in our hearts. I can’t turn my children into Christians. 🙂 All four of my boys love each other and others well..my oldest, Eli, always tells his brothers he loves them. They desire to help others and especially to stand up for marginalized people. One of them, Andrew, I know for sure knows Jesus and he is as responsible and as kind as can be. He always listens intently to sermons at church.
C. Proverbs 17:6 Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.
I remember always being loved by both sets of my grandparents. I have so many memories of how they showed they loved me, with hugs, with wanting to spend time with me. With having my favorite meal or dessert ready for me when I arrived. I enjoy hearing grandparents around me talk about their love for their grandkids. That it is one of the most amazing gifts-to be a grandparent. I look forward to the day when we can be grandparents!
D. Ecclesiates 4:9-12
I would say this verse describes me and my husband for we have been through so many trials together and still are. satan has been after us like you wouldn’t believe trying to put a wrench in our marriage with all these trials and in using our sin nature. Yet God has won for we are helping one another and He helps us turn our face to Him. Though we know we are still vulnerable in this season and satan could get the upper hand if we don’t press into God. When we fall we help each other back up and there has been lots of times of repentance-true repentance and walking in faith.
Wonderful reflections, Rebecca.
Rebecca, these reflections touch my heart.
Love that a friend is praying for you for confidence- how we need that in this world of criticism.
1. What stood out to you from the above and why?
I am just awe-struck as I look at photo after photo of the beauty of the earth, from Ohio, to Canada, Montana, Kansas, Seattle, North Carolina, Wisconsin! Though the psalmist says that creation raises its “voice” day after day, yet no sound is heard – yet you can see that nature almost bleeds the beauty of its Creator. Wow. And what a poignant reminder to be awake and pay attention from the book, Our Town. How many things escape our notice during the day as we rush about? Just listened to a wonderful podcast with Parker Palmer and Carrie Newcomer, talking about how we “move faster than the speed of soul”.
2. Pray here for the Lord to open your eyes to the wonder of each hour.
Lord, please help me to not move faster than the speed of my own soul, to pay attention, to notice, to BE a notice-er. To be thankful not just for the big things, but the small. To be thankful for the wonder of being alive – to move and to breathe in air and a heart that beats without anyone telling it to. I often feel as if I’m in a race against the clock, especially when I’m at work. How much better to keep in mind, Lord, that each minute, each hour, may contain a “wonder” from You.
Nature bleeds the beauty of the Creator. Love that.
3. Here are some verses with the word “wonder” in them – see if any of them spark a specific memory or thought for which to thank Him.
“Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in Your law” – sometimes, reading the Bible can be something I do to get rid of the guilty feeling of having skipped a few days, but I believe God has so much more for us in the pages of this book. It’s much better to open it, anticipating that God is just waiting for me to discover something about Him, myself, others, the world around me. I am reminded that Jesus talked about some who were forever seeing – but not really seeing; forever hearing, but not really hearing. It truly is a wonder that He can speak to me through Scripture.
1. What stood out to you from the above and why?
I love , love the pictures – the scenic beauty and the beauty of family ones. I too wish I could visit each sister here and see their surroundings and meet their families. My husband and I are close to retirement. He finishes his full-time ministry here at the end of the year. We have bought a small home (the very first home of our own) not far from where we are ministering now. It is on 8 acres , mostly trees, bordering on a creek that is quiet most of the year (but is very close to a lake which have flooded badly in the last two springs). Our house is “above flood stage”; but only God knows the future !
We are looking forward to quieter days, though we will continue to be involved with our daughter’s three grandsons on most weekends. I expect my pastor husband will be kept reasonably busy in part-time ministry for a while, as there are many small churches locally who want a Sunday service but cannot afford a full-time pastor.
Still I hope we will be able to travel more; but also to have more time to putter in the gardens and stroll through the woods and fields.
2. Thank you, Lord, for the beauty of each hour, for the quiet mornings to look to you and lean into your strength when I am weak. Thank you, Lord, for the beauty of the earth and each season has its own wonder. Thank you, Lord, that in Christ you have woken us up to the joys around us, joy even in the midst of this world’s pain and sadness, and the joy of your salvation most of all. Give me the strength to live to the fullest each day with my eyes focused on you in praise and in obedience.
Love having you here — I know you will never fully retire, but the thought of having a bit more time is lovely!
Diane, I love your posts. I so value your honesty and how you press into God-shows your maturity in Him. I learn a lot from you.
Diane–love your prayer in #2, I just read it as my own prayer this morning. So love your heart and depth.
5. This verse also praises God for “all gentle thoughts and mild.” Meditate on this and comment.
“gentle thoughts” makes me think of a disposition that is grace-filled towards others, slow to anger, quick to listen, ready to forgive. There is a calmness, steadied by faith that God will work all things together for His purpose.
6. Thank God for the bond of love you share with a believer or believers who are really quite different from you. Be specific.
I’m thankful to be in a fairly diverse church, considering where I live. There is not as much ethnic diversity as I’d like but definitely different backgrounds, ages, with one common thread of Christ. There is a specific story I had here, but deleted it, wanting to respect the family.
Another brother who just came to mind is one of our Compassion children, Jamlick, whom we have sponsored since he was 6. He is now 21 and just graduated from the program. He lives in Kenya in an area stricken with Aids. We’ve had many Compassion kids over the years but this one got my heart deep from the start and he and I have had a fierce bond. I received his last letter a few weeks ago, he said “thank you for the love you have showed me from the time I was young until this time I have finished in the project. I pray to the Lord for the day that we will go to a new heaven and to find you there. I will be very happy when I find you there…” I wept reading that one!
Oh, Lizzy! That is so sweet from your Compassion child. It makes me think of all the beautiful Christian friends we have had from many diverse races and backgrounds and who we have lost contact with over the years of our ministry. I am looking forward to finding them in heaven one day!
I agree with Diane, Lizzy!
Lizzy, the story of your compassion child brought me again into thankfulness for you and how God provided for him both materially and spiritually. What a sweet kiss from God to receive a letter like that!! 🙂
Sunday
1. What stood out to you from the above and why?
So thankful to be a part of this loving community and to have a glimpse into each area where you live…such breathtaking beauty! Dee, the colors in your photo are amazing and I love the reflections of all the people standing on the pier…such detail, just like our Lord. Susan, the leaves on that path look like they were so intricately placed there…so inviting. Rebecca, love to see the contrast in seasons that you have. Nila, what joy it must be to experience such beauty with loved ones. Diane, such beauty in the color of the trees and the skies and all the clouds floating by. Patti, the contrast of all the colors in your picture and how the road just leads you right up to the majestic mountain of Rainier (I’m guessing). I could just keep looking at these all day long!
2. Pray here for the Lord to open your eyes to the wonder of each hour.
I have the privilege of spending the next two weeks with my sister on the big island of Hawaii and the Lord has so opened my eyes to the wonder of each hour. Not just in the absolute beauty around me but that He is the Creator. My sister who is Buddhist worships created things and as beautiful as His creation is (which she gives no credit to) I am reminded that I worship the Creator, the Almighty, the King of kings and the Lord of lords! I pray that He continues to open my eyes that turn my gaze towards Him!
Our encourager, Sharon!
Sharon, I will be praying for this time you have with your sister in Hawaii-wow! What opportunities He will give you!!
Thank you, your prayers are so needed and appreciated!
Sharon, just to encourage you- I was like your sister except I was into tarot card readers and did quija boards and stuff like that. My brother is a believer and God had it so we would spend a week together in California at my grandma’s friends home for my grandpa’s funeral. God grabbed my heart through my brother’s kindness, his answers to my questions and his patience. My brother relied on the Holy Spirit as to when to talk and when not to with me. He would read his bible on the airplane and have quiet times on the patio of the home we were staying at-so he didn’t change anything while I was around. I knew that he had some kind of relationship with God and it was that Bible that was making him kind to me and I began wanting what he had. God was doing the work, my brother just responded. I will pray for opportunities and that God would open her eyes to Him in you and that He would help her to desire Him. Sorry so lengthy but I have to go in early to work this morning so I can make up time for a dr. appointment and I don’t have time to edit. Much love my friend!
Monday
3. Here are some verses with the word “wonder” in them – see if any of them spark a specific memory or thought for which to thank Him.
The first two verses go right along with my thoughts to number 2 yesterday…”He is the one you praise…Who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes.” “Stop and consider God’s wonders.” When standing in front of the ocean yesterday and watching the waves hit the lava on the shore I couldn’t help but think of Job 38:8-11…the wonder of His power and sovereignty over His creation. The third verse takes what I closed with in number 2 to also “see the wonderful things in His law.” I get frustrated with myself for not spending more time in His Word…no excuses. I know I’m missing out on so much. Oh Lord, put within my heart a desire to see the wonderful things in Your law.
5. This verse also praises God for “all gentle thoughts and mild.” Meditate on this and comment.
My reflection on this is our thoughts and words about and toward others. Are my thoughts Grace-filled or critical? Are my words encouraging or condemning? It starts in my heart and in my mind and then comes out of my mouth. If I have a thankful posture (seeing life through His lens)-if that is filling my heart, out of it will flow gentle thoughts and words. From my heart flows the springs of life so I need to be careful to guard it.
Tuesday
4. Meditate on the following verses and share any comments or specific ways to praise God for the gift of a particular person. Being specific is good!
A. Proverbs 27:9 I praise God for my sweet friend Shelley and her gift of listening, praying for me and always following up.
B. Psalm 127:3 I praise You God for my daughter and son who truly are gifts You have given us. As adults now, they so willingly sacrifice their time to come along side us in our times of need without hesitation…thankYou Lord!
C. Proverbs 17:6 This verse is absolutely right…Grandchildren are the crowing glory of the aged! I praise God for the two beautiful grandchildren He has given us. They keep us young and bring such joy!
D. Ecclesiates 4:9-12 I praise God for my husband…a man of God, my rock, loves me unconditionally, provider, wonderful father and playful grandpa!
5. This verse also praises God for “all gentle thoughts and mild”. Meditate on this and comment.
When singing through this verse these words did make me think. In regards to our friends and family…all human love, our thoughts and actions should be gentle (merciful, understanding, kind, humble) and mild (forgiving, forbearing, compassionate).
4. Meditate on the following verses and then share any comments or specific ways to praise God for the gift of a a particular person. Being specific is good!
A. Proverbs 27:9
I have a friend who is a treasure to me. She knows me inside out and loves me anyway. As the Proverb suggests, her words linger like perfume or incense would in a room. I’m very thankful for her.
B. Psalm 127:3
Children are definitely a blessing! They are innocent and sweet. The other day when I was cleaning my house and very “rugged” Cooper met me on the stairs and said, “Nana, you are beautiful.” So sweet! I’m thankful for Cooper.
C. Proverbs 17:6
I remember how my mom and my kids interacted with one another. They loved her and she loved them. There was a true one between them. I’m not sure of the second half of this verse though it has not been my experience that my kids thought I hung the moon. I can see that as I get older I appreciate my mom so much more and more and miss her too. Maybe my kids will feel that way about me when I get up there in years? I’m thankful to have had a kind mother.
D. Ecclesiates 4:9-12
I love the imagery of the cord with three strands not being broken. These verses make me reflect on me and my husband and our relationship. We have several “signs” in our room and one says, “we may not have it all together, but together we have it all.” He and I can do anything if we work together. I am thankful for my husband.
5. This verse also praises God for “all gentle thoughts and mild.” Meditate on this and comment.
I’m guessing it is encouraging us to be mild mannered with each other, speaking softly, and being slow to anger. I actually said this to my husband this past weekend and Grace overheard. I heard her say, “slow to anger” to one of us. Hahaha it was cute!
3. Deut 10:21 This verse makes me remember the times He has carried me. It is by His hand that I am saved. The miracles in my life that are Ebenezers, mileposts on the journey to assure me that He is real, He is intervening.
Job 37:14 This was spoken to Job after his suffering, during his suffering. So too I can stop and find comfort and clarity in considering the one who is bigger than my circumstances.
Psalm 119:18 There are so many wonderful things in His law… a spring of living water.
Jill, Is that you with your family in Montana in the picture above? I love that picture and you live in such a beautiful place!!
Rebecca, yes! That is us! =) I do love Montana!
Jill, I think I could handle the cold weather if I had beauty like that surrounding me. 🙂 It can get beautiful here but it is mostly just flat lands.
Rebecca — I understand. Steve wanted to live in the “flatlands” because it was the only place in America where there was a desperate need for doctors. I read Willa Cather and it helped me appreciate the beauty — I remember she compared the wind blowing the wheat on the rolling plains to a herd of buffalo running together — she had some metaphors that helped appreciate the beauty of the “flatlands.”
Dee, Steve’s heart-oh. I need to read Willa Cather for I so need help to appreciate the scenery around where I live-the trees in my neighborhood are beautiful in the fall and after a heavy snow fall. When I drive to Wichita or other places in Kansas the flatlands are beautiful, especially the Flint Hills. Yet I see myself wishing I had a house right smack dab in the middle of it, instead of where I live. 🙁 I do that often when I see mountains or the ocean or rolling hills. 🙂 That is called being discontent with what God has given me. So I need to ask Him to help me.
4. Meditate on the following verses and then share any comments or specific ways to praise God for the gift of a particular person. Being specific is good!
A. Proverbs 27:9 This one stirs gratefulness in my heart for my sweet friend Julie who, with a simple Biblical question, sets my mind on Christ to find solutions and out of myself and my ‘kingly’ emotions.
B. Psalm 127:3 Children are a heritage from the Lord… this means children are God’s legacy passed to us, our inheritance from God. Inheritance is something owned by the giver …. something precious passed down. My children are God’s precious possessions passed to me and my husband. I am indeed grateful for my children, Desmond and Jaxter. They remind me of He who sent them and His work in my life. They, like all things created by God, reveal His wonder!
D. Ecclesiates 4:9-12 This, of course, reminds me of my husband. And I am grateful for him. Two are better than one in this life and he spans so many hards gaps in my life. It always amazes me when I know I have upset him and yet he still goes about and does things for me … he is choosing to lift me up rather than seek vengeance.
5. This verse also praises God for “all gentle thoughts and mild.” Meditate on this and comment. This makes me think of anti-stress…of soul talk. Thoughts that do not stir up but apply peace and joy, His peace and joy.
Dee! Thanks for the backstory of Heather and Tammy! I knew a bit but not all. Weren’t they precious? I too felt such bonds with many at the retreat. I will be meeting up with them for church and other things (Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir) when I go down to visit relatives.
6. Thank God for the bond of love you share with a believer or believers who are really quite different from you. Be specific.
Thank You Jesus for the lovely Women of the Manhattan Bible Church. What a special group of people; Your people! Thank You for how they welcomed me and connected with me. Thank You for their spirit filled leaders who encouraged me and prayed with me. Thank You for the women who led the break out groups and shared their talents, and thank You for the beautiful nature and good weather we had that weekend. Her is a personal picture of the retreat. I was horsing around with another lady who loves to crochet as I do:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/6vqyspqyube6fny/IMG_1689.JPG?dl=0
7. Often the bond of Christ’s blood is stronger than the bond of biological blood. Have you experienced this? If so, share, and give thanks.
Oh yes! on that same retreat, our sister Jackie came with me and we had such a beautiful hike in the woods prior to the retreat. Jackie and I are kindred spirits and have some sort of strange connection. We feel like we have know each other forever! Thank You Lord for Jackie, my friend! Here is Dee, Sally, me and Jackie:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/v8sh2bkonq7mqtr/IMG_1681.JPG?dl=0
8. Read Psalm 133 and share the main point.
The main point is that our life is better when we get along; it is blessed by God.
Laura, absolutely love the picture with you, Jackie, Dee and Sally. I didn’t know the background about you and Jackie. God is so good!
He is, isn’t He?
6. Thank God for the bond you share with a believer or believers who are really quite different from you. Be specific. We met a beautiful couple at a church in Virginia, Nicole and Emmanuel. They are completely opposite of us! In almost every way possible except for our faith and language (and even at that they have a different dialect than us…). They ended up being caregivers to our two boys when I went to work part time and what a blessing they were in our lives and in our boys’ lives. So neat to see faith manifest through different personalities. They are loud, boisterous, outwardly passionate, extroverted…. they tackle our boys and do loud crazy things… I am grateful for their Godly example because I want my boys to know that Christian isn’t ‘cultural’…meaning it doesn’t have to only look one way…it spans and infiltrates culture manifesting in different but the same. I do thank God for them, their influence and their love.
7. Often the bond of Christ’s blood is stronger than the bond of biological blood. Have you experienced this? Yes, indeed.in our many moves we have found family in friends. The most notable experience was when my husband was in grad school. We had a group of friends who were all far from family and so we became family to each other. We are all still in touch. We met often, prayed together, ate together, helped each other, laughed together. It was a sweet time.
8. Read Psalm 133 and share the main point. Friends of the faith are sweet blessing. An extravagant blessing n our lives.
9. Read the following and comment. Eugene is likening oil in his beard to cleansing power of faith brothers. This reminds me of a Keller sermon where he asserted that you cannot grow and change without community, without friends. This also makes me consider our current search for a church home. So many churches preach about what not to do and how others are doing it wrong… it is depressing. How we crave a place that rejoices in the Gospel and sings of His Light and allows the Holy Spirit to move instead of being smugly pleased at doing the right thing…humility…the oil of Aaron is humbly receiving from the Lord that which keeps us coming to the Lord.
Wednesday
8. Read Psalm 133 and share the main point.
How good and what it’s like to live in harmony/unity with our brother.
9. Read the following short blog post and comment.
I think of each time the Lord cleanses me from sin, anointing me with His forgiving oil…all the dirt dissolved…that’s how precious living in harmony should be. (Just the way I see it)
First Dee, why should we skip the Mormon ones? Because they are the big choir, or something else?
10. In the Song of Songs, the daughters of Jerusalem ask the Shulammite maiden: “How is your Beloved better than others?” Name the ways Jesus is better than the founders of other religions, or, than any of your idols. Be specific.
In no other religion did the leader give himself up for the believers. The believers had to do something to earn the leaders’ favor.
Jesus took on human form so we could relate to Him. He wasn’t some far away or metal thing.
God didn’t give us a list of many rules we had to follow. He made it simple: love.
We get the Trinity! Three in One!
11. Our own Laura asked, “What does ‘to our race so freely given” mean. Comment?
I think it means that Jesus was freely given to us by God.
12. Work on memorizing a verse or two or more from “For The Beauty.” Report what you have learned and keep singing!
Memorizing is hard as I get older. I have this verse: For the beauty of each hour, of the day and of the night. Hill and vale and tree and flower, Sun and moon and stars and light. I also know the friend one….For the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child. Friends on earth and friends above, For all gentle thoughts and mild. Well maybe not so much the love verse but I’m getting better!
Laura — of course people who don’t believe that Jesus is God can sing beautifully, and there may be people in churches that are sound that don’t believe but are still singing, but I want the Spirit’s blessing on the choir. Mormons are a cult — one of the ways you can determine a cult is that they have their own book that re-interprets the Bible. For Mormons is it Joseph Smith. Two other big cults are Jehovah’s Witnesses and Christian Scientists. None of them believe in the Deity of Christ.
I am so thankful for the International Church; “for the church that evermore lifteth holy hands above.”
Yes, last summer I was blessed to meet several couples who came as my husband and I did to fellowship together in New Orleans.
One couple was from Nigeria and the other from Zambia. We felt such a bond of love as we shared a meal together. We have the same goal,
to reach out and share our faith and the word of God. Though our dress and customs may be different,we share the love and forgiveness of
Christ. We can pray and sing together and know that our future is in God’s hands where people from every tribe and nation will rejoice together.
I have a Christian “sister” who is closer than biological relatives. We share prayer concerns together, primarily for the spiritual needs of our families. We met in nursing school together 58 years ago! and remain close because of our faith and intentionality though we are many states away. We just know each other intimately and understand the Word. I just texted her Proverbs 27:9 to her and her verse to me was Psalm 119:105. So thankful for my friend, Norma!
Psalm 133- The point is the joy in being one in the Spirit, in the bond of love. We do not have to consider individual accomplishments, but what we are accomplishing together, serving the Lord our God.
Beautiful post from Shirley I hope you will read!
I am so thankful for the International Church; “for the church that evermore lifteth holy hands above.” Yes, last summer I was blessed to meet several couples who came as my husband and I did to fellowship together in New Orleans. One couple was from Nigeria and the other from Zambia. We felt such a bond of love as we shared a meal together. We have the same goal, to reach out and share our faith and the word of God. Though our dress and customs may be different,we share the love and forgiveness of Christ. We can pray and sing together and know that our future is in God’s hands where people from every tribe and nation will rejoice together.
I have a Christian “sister” who is closer than biological relatives. We share prayer concerns together, primarily for the spiritual needs of our families. We met in nursing school together 58 years ago! and remain close because of our faith and intentionality though we are many states away. We just know each other intimately and understand the Word. I just texted Proverbs 27:9 to her and her verse to me was Psalm 119:105. So thankful for my friend, Norma!
Psalm 133- The point is the joy in being one in the Spirit, in the bond of love. It is the most precious joining together that is everlasting. We do not have to consider individual accomplishments, but rather what jointly we stand for in our faith, a blessing to the Lord. Again this hymn is running through my mind as I seek to memorize these verses of gratitude. “a pure sacrifice of love.”
https://youtu.be/j1lnk6sJiQo
This rendition by the Wheaton College Women’s Chorale is one of my favorites. I don’t know if the link works or not.
Oh thank you, Sharon. I watched it this morning and it brought me to tears. What a good way to begin my time with Him!
How beautiful Sharon! Made me cry too. It is t the version I am used to singing in church, but still beautiful.
I like this rendition of the piece. Her voice is beautiful… Although there are some verses that are skipped.
https://youtu.be/Zy7t2Uasqe8
Love her voice…beautiful!!
I want to go back to Wednesday and answer question number 6…Thank God for the bond of love you share with a believer or believers who are really quite different from you. Be specific.
This response is from a past bond, but one I truly treasure. We had a family in our church from South Africa (Asian Indian) that I was drawn to immediately because of my experience in Africa but as we got to know one another the bond went much deeper because of our love for the Lord. He would guest preach at our church and just radiate the love of God. They brought a new dimension to our church as we don’t have a very diverse church. Him and and his wife had hearts of evangelism that we’re very contagious…especially for me. We were invited to their home for dinner and I longed for the evening not to end…conversations of the Lord. I am sad to say that they moved a few years ago due to racial discrimination in the High School they taught in. Because they were different the community didn’t accept them and I am ashamed that some people within our church didn’t accept them. I do know they had an impact in my life and for that…thank You Lord!
Dee, I would like to know your thoughts about the blog you posted from Eugene Peterson. I’m not sure I grasped it correctly…thanks!
Sure, Sharon — and then you can share yours. Here is Peterson’s poem on Psalm 133:
I think the painting shows an old and weary man being comforted by anointing oil relaxing him, soothing him — and in the same way God’s Spirit, when unquenched, can loosen our unbelief and soften our hard hearts to help us give grace and truly love one another. Recently I have felt betrayed by one who I felt I had loved well, but I absolutely know Satan wants to use this to divide the body of Christ. So I need His Spirit to fall over me and soften my heart, help me see this person as He does, and to love well.
“Aaron’s Beard” by Eugene H. Peterson
. . . running down the beard,
Upon the beard of Aaron . . .
—Psalm 133:2
Aaronic blessings
Run down my red beard
Refracting sun warmth
In oil ooze
loosening
Ironic curses
Flecks of stubborn rust
Corrosive unbelief
Cynic stuff.
I like that Dee. I answered it on Wednesday…see above.
3. Here are some verses with the word “wonder” in them — see if any of them spark a specific memory or thought for which to thank Him.
He is the one you praise, he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes. (Deut. 10:21) – I am just so amazed at the beauty that surrounds me. The multiple of stars in they sky, the beautiful sunrises and sunsets that I can’t take enough pictures of. The beautiful fall colors and comes after all the green that springs up. God is the most amazing artist ever. He gives us beauty to look at if we slow down to see it and enjoy it all.
Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God’s wonders. (Job 37:14) – Thank you Lord for giving us time, time to enjoy all you have created. Help us to always remember that you are the Creator and to thank you for the littlest things that catch our eyes.
Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law. (Psalm 119:18) – I love how God’s timing falls in to place for me. I need to remember that he is in control and has my best interest at heart. I need to stand back, and let His Law, His promises, His blessings come to me when they should. If I push the issue and try doing something on my own, I will mess the outcome up. Help me Lord to wait on you, to let your law work as it was intended too.
4. Meditate on the following verses and then share any comments or specific ways to praise God for the gift of a a particular person. Being specific is good!
A. Proverbs 27:9 – My sister-friend Helen, is a great Godly woman. She is very attentive to me when we go out and to others that she comes in to contact with. She is always willing to help in any way she can. She puts others before herself and will listen and advise back on a circumstance. She is aware of things she says and will apologize if she misspoke on something. I love going out with her for dinner and conversation. We cover so much when we are together. She is a great blessing to me and I’m so thankful to God that our paths crossed 11 years ago.
B. Psalm 127:3 – My two biological sons, Kyle and Justin have brought me both pain and joy. I pretty much had to be both mom and dad to them after my divorce and it didn’t come easy. I’m grateful that I was given the job of their mom and love the openness we have in our ‘older’ relationship. My 3 step sons, what a great joy it has been to be given 3 more sons, (one that I just finally met after 11 years of marriage to his dad). I knew them as men, did not have the joy of being a part of their growing up years, but feel we still have a good relationship with the two I have known longer. One of them even asked if he could call me Mom. How that melt my heart. Thank you Lord for bringing these 5 men in to my life. You know what is needed and provide the blessings at the right time.
C. Proverbs 17:6 – Ahh, I love this. My grandkids are a definite joy in my life. I recently met two of them (along with my stepson) just recently and I just wish I was close to all of them. But distance doesn’t let me be with them at certain times. Four of them are in Texas (just saw all of them at the beginning of October) one, our oldest granddaughter is in Alabama, and two local in NW Indiana. I always say I can be sad and then I see one of them and my sadness turns to joy. Love them all and pray I will be able to see the ones farther out more often. Thank you Lord for the gift of my grandkids. I know you are the one that they all need to have in their life. I pray you will put people in their paths to bring them to you.
D. Ecclesiates 4:9-12 – These verses are so important to me. To have someone along side you I feel is what God wants for us. To have Godly friends, family, people around you, is so much better then doing this life we have been give alone. I feel sad for those that don’t have these types of friends. The women in our life group have formed a bond, yet we feel the men still need to be coaxed along to let each other in. How sad that is to me. I would terribly miss my friends if they left. Family and friends are what is important. We need each other in good times and in bad. I have found after my sister passed away suddenly, that I need to make the time for my friends and family. Other things can wait, but we are not promised tomorrow, so I need to make the effort to put them on my calendar. I would rather have a busy calendar filled with dinners or outings with family and friends. Thank you Lord for bringing each of the these special people in to my life. I am grateful for what each of them brings to our relationship.
5. This verse also praises God for “all gentle thoughts and mild.” Meditate on this and comment. – It reminds me of thinking on things that are pure, not things that will bring sadness or anger to me. But joyful thoughts, thankful praises. My mind needs to be clear of all negativity so I need to clear my heart of those things so pure joy comes out.
Love this, Julie. “I can be sad and then I see one of them and my sadness turns to joy.”
My grandkids also live far: Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Maine and eastern Massachusetts and I see them rarely, but it is joy when I do!
6. Thank God for the bond of love you share with a believer or believers who are really quite different from you. Be specific. – I have to say that I’m sad I can’t think of anyone that believes differently than me that I share a bond with. I share my life with other believers but think of them as different than me. Dee can you explain more what you mean here?
7. Often the bond of Christ’s blood is stronger than the bond of biological blood. Have you experienced this? If so, share, and give thanks. – I have experienced this. God’s love, his bond with me is never ending. He will never leave me and will make his presence be felt if I seek him. The biological love from my family can be harsh and critical. Thinking they know what is best for me but in turn wouldn’t be there if I chose to disagree with them. I don’t mean that they would disown me, but maybe deep down it could come to that, but they just would not be helpful to me and criticize me or point out all my flaws but don’t see the good I may do. God will guide me and give me the nudge I need, but the harsh words that come from family are hard to forget. They become embedded in my mind and my heart becomes angry every time I think about what was said or done to me. Lord I am so thankful for the relationship we have. Though you teach me and are molding me every day, your love does not grow weary. Thank you Lord for loving me.
8. Read Psalm 133 and share the main point. – Short and simple, we need to live in unity. We need to get along with EVERYONE and be respectful. Though we may not agree with everything they say, we can be mindful that we all have different opinions on things. It is ok to agree to disagree. God will be powering out more blessings upon us if our ‘different’ lives come together in unity.
Great reflections, Julie.
What stuck?
Just love singing For the Beauty of each hour of the day and of the night! Yes, what sticks with me is the joy that comes with gratitude.
I was reminded of dear friends and this is a special blessing. But even more is the verse which was not familiar to me: For thyself, Best gift divine.
God so loved the world that He gave His only Son! Yes, so freely given. I will not forget to sing this verse.
Lovely, Shirley.
7. Often the bond of Christ’s blood is stronger than the bond of biological blood. Have you experienced this? If so, share, and give thanks.
Oh. Well, you know I could go way too long here, so I’ll condense! No one in my house “shares blood” so in a way it’s very natural to me to be bonded to those I have no biological ties to. But especially in the last few years, I feel God has helped me redefine family, not just my immediate one, but also extended family. While I am sad to not be in contact with most of my biological extended family, God has provided through our family in Christ. We now have “non biological” family far away who call on my kids’ birthdays and make up for the loss of aunts & uncles. We have a strong church family, my Pastor bonded tight to Philip our first days home from China, and Christian neighbors next door who have loved my teen son as their own. I miss my 2 biological sisters who have separated themselves from me, but the Lord has given me 2 prayer partners who carve out time to hear my heart and pray together. And several other Christian sisters who come to mind, some I haven’t seen in many years and yet we can talk and share as deep as always because of the bond He gives us.
8. Read Psalm 133 and share the main point.
Unity among believers is a blessing, overflowing with goodness. It is replenishing to the soul, healing, restorative.
9. Read the following short blog post and comment.
The power of God’s blessing of grace- to loosen our chains, dissolve unbelief, cleanse, restore, renew.
Lovely Lizzy!
I love seeing your posts, Lizzy. You are such an important part of this study. You have so much insight and wisdom that you humbly share. It wouldn’t be the same without you. Love you and pray for you and your family often.
oh Dawn–my eyes filled seeing this. He really just used you more than you could imagine…thank you so much for this encouragement dear sister. And I feel the same for you–always thankful when I see you come in to share from your deep heart. And I love what you said here, I so often think the same thing when I’m wishing I could see Africa! “so I don’t have to stress about seeing everything before I die” love to you~
My take away is the beauty of this world and my blog sisters. I will always be thankful to Dee for bringing us together and for showing us that we are created to spend eternity on this earth in its perfection so I don’t have to stress about seeing everything before I die. God has been beyond good to us!
Oh Dawn — I love this “I don’t have to stress about seeing everything before I die.” 🙂
A friend in my bible study group told me about this month long study.