Before we finish November with the Psalms, I want to invite you to the upcoming Advent study on the “Wonder of Christmas.” I also want to encourage you to invite a friend to join you. This week I read a tongue-in-cheek paragraph from C. S. Lewis on barbarians from the Island of Niatrib. (Britain spelled backward) Here it is, and may it help us avoid the RUSH and experience the peace of God.
On Niatirb, the barbarians celebrate Exmas for 50 days. They send Exmas cards with a printed picture to many people and beat their breasts and wail curses when they get Exmas cards from someone they did not include. The same suffering occurs with Exmas gifts. They are so tired by all the Rush that on Exmas day they can hardly get out of bed, but finally they do to eat and drink five times as much as usual. They fall into bed, glad to be done with Exmas.
But there are a few among the Niatirbians who celebrate Crissmas and rise early on that day with shining faces. In most temples there are images of a fair woman with a newborn Child on her knees and certain animals and shepherds adoring the child. They wish that Zeus would put in the mind of the other Niatirbians to celebrate Exmas at a different time for the Rush distracts even them from the beauty and glory of Crissmas.
May we begin next week, helping one another gaze on the wonder of what God has done by coming to earth, and not get so caught up in RUSH that we miss the true Christmas. May in our beholding and obeying, we shine like stars in the heaven.
Photo by Felix Mittermeirer
We will close out November with Psalm 42, and learn to speak truth to our souls so we might better trust and obey. Here is what Tim Keller says:
If you come and submit to my word totally, what will I do? I will come and I will pour into your life a stream of love and joy and glory. If you obey me, you will shine like stars in the heaven. My sweetness and my greatness will come into your life as well.
Keller says the reason we do not obey and experience all that God has for us, is that we do not believe the promises.
Psalm 42 has been a paradigm changer in my life and continues to be. This week we are going to combine it with praying the promises. Let me tell you how this had helped me in the past and then, we’ll dive in so that can experience the power of praying the promises for ourselves and others.
In the past, it helped me cross the icy river of grief by modeling how to talk to my soul instead of listening to her. If I listened to my soul after Steve died she told me:
You will never have joy again. You are not going to make it, your children are not going to make it.
Listening to her took me down, down, down into the icy river.
I had to take my soul in hand and remind her of the promises from God:
Jesus promised to never leave or forsake you. He promised to be a Husband to the widow and a Father to the fatherless. Therefore, put your hope in God.
This truth buoyed me up, gave me hope, and by repeating it continually to my soul, I experienced the power to get across that icy river. I also often cried out, “Lord, You promised to be my husband — I need one now. And a man would show up to tow my car out of the woods or get the trees off my roof.” Likewise, He provided father figures for my girls, who were all fairly young. Over and over again He has come running for me and my children.
We will study the psalm, listen to a 15-minute message from Mike Reeves, and practice praying the promises to help us overcome sadness, temptation, and fear.
Let’s go!
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
2. Tell us something you are thankful for concerning your Thanksgiving. And if you feel it didn’t go well, find a redeeming truth.
Monday: Speaking Truth to our Souls
3. Read Psalm 42:1-4.
A. Find the two negative water pictures that describe his sadness
B. What is he longing for but does not have?
and describe the circumstances of the psalmist and how he is feeling. Look carefully. (Hint: There are two negative water pictures and one picture of what he has lost.)
4. Read Psalm 42:5-8
A. Whom does the psalmist take in hand, and how does he talk to her? (v. 5)
B. Verse 7 is both a positive and negative water picture. Spurgeon says the “deep voice of God speaks deep into our souls,” even as the breakers are washing over us.” Share a time of trouble when God spoke His love to you.
C. The psalmist describes what he knows about God. What does he say?
5. Read Psalm 42:9-11.
A. How is the psalmist honest with God in verses 9-10? Why is this important?
B. What does he do again? What does this tell you?
Tuesday: Mike Reeves
6. Listen to the above and share what stands out to you and why.
Wednesday: Promises to Overcome Sadness
When the 54th Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan, was criticized for gathering groups to pray and told instead, to do something, he said: “Prayer is doing something.” By praying for our own hearts and the hearts of those in deep suffering, we are doing something.
7. Like the psalmist, you may feel abandoned or forgotten by God. Take your soul in hand and speak the truth and promise of Romans 8:32 to her.
8. Do you believe the above? If you doubt, ask God for help with your unbelief.
9. Pray the same for our brethren suffering horrors in Ukraine and Israel, or, for someone you know who is struggling with depression.
Thursday: Promises to Overcome Temptation
In the past I’d usually gain 5-7 pounds during December. But two promises I repeat to myself help me:
The first is negative: If you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at the door. (Genesis 4:) I knew I’d give the devil a foothold if I took one bite.
The second is positive: The truth will set you free. (John 8:32) I knew I’d find freedom in being healthier and in liking myself better!
Whether your temptation is too much food, too much spending, or too much anything — pray these promises and ask God to help you believe them, to help your unbelief.
10. Pray these promises or others to help you overcome whatever tempts you and brings you down.
Friday: Promises To Overcome Fear
You probably know the most common command in the Bible is “Fear Not!” What I want you to do, using a Bible app or concordance, is to find some examples of “Fear not” that also contain a promise that is applicable to you. Many of the “Fear nots” are to individuals in special circumstances, and don’t apply — such as “Do not fear to take Mary as your wife…” but many are universal. Find some and find the promise. Then pray it into your heart for whatever you are facing. Then so the same for people you know whose circumstances are overwhelming.
11. Pray!
Saturday:
12. What’s your take-a-way and why?
Join us for Advent, Beginning Tomorrow!
In the bleak mid-winter, Jesus Christ was born.
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As I was reading through Psalm 42 again this morning I was reminded of this song titled “Rescue” ~
Some of the lyrics:
You are the source of the life
I can’t be left behind
No one else will do
I will take hold of you
I need You Jesus
To come to my rescue
Where else can I go
There’s no other name by
Which I am saved
Capture me with grace
I will follow you
Beautiful lyrics, Nila. Thank you.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? The picture When I consider the heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars that You have put in place, what is man that You are mindful of him, the son of man that You care for him. And The reason we don’t experience all God has for us is that we don’t believe His promises. Find that challenging What is it I’m to do with the rest of my life? I want to do the good works that God prepared in advance for me to do. Where am I shrinking back, just stumbling along or on the wrong path?
2. Tell us something you are thankful for concerning your Thanksgiving. And if you feel it didn’t go well, find a redeeming truth. God didn’t leave me or forsake me and kept me calm and not feeling hurt. Thank you Father.
Judy, the verses from Psalm 8 are beautiful as always! I just celebrated another birthday and I feel you when you asked the question, “What is it I’m to do with the rest of my life? ” And I love that you answered that with the verse that talks about the good works that God has prepared in advance for us to do.
I agree with Bing, Judy. Great verse. May it be.
Judy, love your redeeming truth…” God didn’t leave me or forsake me and kept me calm and not feeling hurt.”.
Oh, Judy! We both went to Psalm 8! I can so relate to ” What am I to do with the rest of my life?” And your answer is beautiful! He is preparing us. Thank you!
Psalm 8 is a beautiful psalm and perspective
First time here, you have been recommended to me by Ernema (Bing) Boettner. She follows you year round I think. I have studies with Bing several times thru the years. This past Spring I was diagnosed with Stage 1-2 pancreatic cancer. After only 3 months of chemo. And. Major surgery, a Whipple procedure, I have been pronounced cancer free! But now 2 months post surgery I will be starting 3 more months of chemo to assure there is no return. Bing thought the upcoming study would be good to keep my faith strong!
Hi, Deb! You will be blessed by being a part of this group. The ladies here are like a warm blanket on a cold day! A place of support and comfort especially on days when the sun is obscured by the darkness of the looming clouds. Welcome!
Deb so glad to have you here. You’ve been through so very much. So often that leads to depth in a person. We’re glad to have you here.
Praise God for your healing. So glad you are joining. I’ve found they are a loving, insightful, learn from group of ladies
Welcome Deb😊! Bing is a wonderful person and has so encouraged me. And Dee, a woman full of grace continually challenges me with this blog…glad you’re here.
Welcome Deb! We are so lucky to all be together here. Dee is a gem for sure! I have been SO blessed by the ladies and our studies. The questions, the advice, the prayers, the LOVE. It’s all here and I’m glad you have joined us. Praise You Lord for Deb’s healing!!!
Deb, Welcome to this blog. There is much learning and growing in God’s Word to be gained here. And sweet fellowship. Praying God encourages your heart by being part of it.
Welcome Deb! It is a joy to have you here. I Praise God for your healing. This blog is such a wonderful and safe place to be. So thankful for Dee and all of these sweet friends in Christ, who are so filled with His love and grace. .
Wow exactly what I needed this morning as I am traveling to the hospital! You ladies are such an encouragement ! I always thought I was a strong woman, but cancer can knock you right off your feet if you allow it to do so! God has been walking beside me with this war! I trust the healing has taken place… in fact, if it were for symptoms I might know I had cancer, but I have been greatly blessed with zero side effects up until now( exception some hair loss) and I know that is only by the grace of our loving Father. He is my shepherd and is guiding me to people for support. Will try to update you this evening after my infusion is started! God blessed me with this blog ! And each of you! Thank you, Father!
Welcome here Deb ~ it surely is a wonderful place of encouragement.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Beholding and obeying. And believing His promises. (Keller says the reason we do not obey and experience all that God has for us, is that we do not believe the promises.
If you come and submit to my word totally, what will I do? I will come and I will pour into your life a stream of love and joy and glory. If you obey me, you will shine like stars in the heaven. My sweetness and my greatness will come into your life as well.
I believe pride gets in the way of my obeying God. I am praying to God to give me the courage to say “yes” to what He has called me to do. And to believe Him and His promise in regard to this.
Dee, thank you for the example you gave about speaking to your soul instead of letting her speak to you. This is where I have learned to do that whenever I am tempted, sad, or fearful.
2. Tell us something you are thankful for concerning your Thanksgiving. And if you feel it didn’t go well, find a redeeming truth.
I am thankful that even though our Thanksgiving was peppered with COVID-19 (a nephew and his wife tested positive the day of) and falls (Ruth and my sister-in-law’s widow friend), 8 of us were able to gather and spend time together. It was a special treat for us to see Richard’s nephew and his fiancée. A mutual friend of all of us came by and visited after having her own Thanksgiving Day dinner with her family. It was a very relaxing day with everyone visiting with each other. The TV was on only for some great soft music and Charlie Brown and company providing some Thanksgiving scenes. I thought of Ecclesiastes 3 “Everything is made beautiful in His time.”
On Friday early morning, we drove to see and help Ruth at her house in KC. It was good to see her and her critters “surviving” her mishap. She was feeling much better when we left that evening.
Bing, so glad you could go see Ruth and she’s feeling better!!
Happy Birthday🎂
Thank you, Sharon. I had a good birthday and felt the love of many.
Happy birthday Bing!!
So thankful you had a wonderful birthday and a lovely Thanksgiving, Bing. I am so happy that Ruth is doing better (and her critters too). Love this: I will come and I will pour into your life a stream of love and joy and glory.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I love the reminder to rest in the season. We are dancing to Silent Night this year, on Dec 17. I am reminding the dancers that the joy is in the making, not necessarily the final presentation. It’s the little pieces along the way 😉.
2. Tell us something you are thankful for concerning your Thanksgiving. And if you feel it didn’t go well, find a redeeming truth.
I am thankful that my family seemed to all get along peachy 🥰.
How lovely to dance to Silent Night!
What a beautiful dance that will be ~ Silent Night. Yes, the joy is in the process…so true. 🙂
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? How easy it is to slip into the icy river of despair. I love how you talked to your soul and were reminded of God’s promises and He came through.
2. Tell us something you are thankful for concerning your Thanksgiving. And if you feel it didn’t go well, find a redeeming truth. It went surprisingly well. Because so many people didn’t RSVP, I estimated 40 people. We ended up with 60 people, but because we ask everyone to bring a dish to pass there was plenty of food. I made 3 turkeys (hardly any leftovers). It was a very blessed time.
60 people! Oh my! You must be exhausted. 3 turkeys. Amazing. Yet you say it was blessed!
Wow! That sounds like a great Thanksgiving, Dawn!
Wow Dawn!
Your Thanksgiving was an event. 😊. But so great to hear it was a blessed time.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I so need to learn to speak truth to my soul so I might better trust and obey. Love this part from the Keller quote, “If you obey Me, you will shine like stars in the heaven.”
2. Tell us something you are thankful for concerning your Thanksgiving. And if you feel it didn’t go well, find a redeeming truth.
I’m thankful that my family lives close so we could all be together.
That is such a blessing of having family close! For the most part, I imagine. I bet you are the best grandma.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
—Dee’s sharing in her comments “This truth buoyed me up, gave me hope, and by repeating it continually to my soul, I experienced the power to get across that icy river.”
Yesterday my pastor/ son in his sermon talked about grief and how Satan as the father of lies loves to plant and stir up lies in our times of grief. He referred to John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
But Jesus counters those lies with his truth and He brings abundant life to us.
He shared from Isaiah 61 that Jesus came to “bring good news to the poor “ (better translated as needy or afflicted)
“he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,”
“to comfort all who mourn”
To give “the oil of gladness instead of mourning,”
What I read here and what I heard in the message yesterday relate so closely.
2. Tell us something you are thankful for concerning your Thanksgiving. And if you feel it didn’t go well, find a redeeming truth.
—I’m grateful a wayward college age grandson chose to spend Thanksgiving with us and we were able to love on him and expose him again to what our family is really all about.
Good reason for thanks!
Love your son’s sermon, Bev and so thankful for family “love” time with your grandson.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? My first thought, on seeing the photos of the sky and the snow, helped me to look beyond the icy river I am crossing, and look up to Him. Dear Dee, thank you for sharing your thoughts of that first year when Steve went home to Jesus. My heart cried out yesterday, as I woke up very sad without my husband…and it was the day I lost my dad 28 years ago. Yet, when I saw this post, I thought of Psalm 8:1! “O Lord, our Lord, How majestic is Your name in all the earth. Who have displayed Your splendor above the heavens!” It immediately helped my heart focus on Him…on praising Him. Praying and Praising Him through the Psalms has helped me so much this past few months.
2. Tell us something you are thankful for concerning your Thanksgiving. And if you feel it didn’t go well, find a redeeming truth. I am so thankful that I heard from each of my grandchildren and that I had our Montana daughter and her family with me for a lovely day. Praising God for sustaining us. I received many text messages that day from families and students from our school that expressed so much gratitude and love. Thank you, Father God.
I love it that you heard from students — I know how profoundly you impacted them — you and Ronnie.
Patti,
Thankyou for sharing so honestly. Your testimony is so poignant in your time of such fresh grief. Keeping you in prayer.
Patti,
Your fresh grief is understandable. The Lord knows our sorrows ~
3. Read Psalm 42:1-4.
A. Find the two negative water pictures that describe his sadness My soul thirsts for God. My tears have been my food day and night.
B. What is he longing for but does not have? He longs for God’s presence in his soul; to hear God’s voice in his heart; to see God’s hand in his life.
and describe the circumstances of the psalmist and how he is feeling. Look carefully. (Hint: There are two negative water pictures and one picture of what he has lost.) The psalmist feels alone, unable to come to worship God in his heart, his soul pants and thirsts in his need for God and his loneliness fills him with sorrow. He has lost his joy.
3. Read Psalm 42:1-4.
A. Find the two negative water pictures that describe his sadness
Thirsting for water and he is crying (tears).
B. What is he longing for but does not have?
and describe the circumstances of the psalmist and how he is feeling. Look carefully. (Hint: There are two negative water pictures and one picture of what he has lost.)
He is missing God and a place to worship Him. Has the temple been destroyed? He is heart broken because it wasn’t always this way.
4. Read Psalm 42:5-8
A. Whom does the psalmist take in hand, and how does he talk to her? (v. 5)
He talks to his soul. He tries to cheer himself up.
B. Verse 7 is both a positive and negative water picture. Spurgeon says the “deep voice of God speaks deep into our souls,” even as the breakers are washing over us.” Share a time of trouble when God spoke His love to you.
I recently have had huge struggles in our family. The Holy Spirit spoke to me a couple of nights in a row while I was sleeping. I woke up knowing that God was guiding me. It didn’t mean everything was going to be ok, rather, I knew He was with me.
C. The psalmist describes what he knows about God. What does he say?
God will never leave him. He remembers how He helped him in the past. He commands the Psalmist. He is with Him at night.
So wise and good from Laura:
I recently have had huge struggles in our family. The Holy Spirit spoke to me a couple of nights in a row while I was sleeping. I woke up knowing that God was guiding me. It didn’t mean everything was going to be ok, rather, I knew He was with me.
Laura, What a gift from God to have him speak to you and give you a strong sense of his guiding you but more importantly for you to know He is with you. That is what He has impressed on me this past year. The reality that He is with my Mom. I know she has the Holy Spirit in her and I know He is with me and so do I.
I have been praying for you and your sweet mom. I love that you posted that she has the Holy Spirit in her and He is also with you. He is trustworthy! Thank you for your prayers.
Thank you for sharing this, Laura. I love how the Holy Spirit speaks to us, even as we sleep.
Laura, what a sweet testimony of God coming to you in your sleep. I have been experiencing some good times with the Lord at night also and what a refreshment they have been to my soul and body.
Monday: Speaking Truth to our Souls
3. Read Psalm 42:1-4.
A. Find the two negative water pictures that describe his sadness
“My soul thirsts for God.”
“My tears have been my food day and night.’
B. What is he longing for but does not have? And describe the circumstances of the psalmist and how he is feeling. Look carefully. (Hint: There are two negative water pictures and one picture of what he has lost.)
He’s longing for communion/fellowship with God.
The Psalmist is in deep sorrow and discouragement because as the deer is panting/longing for water he is panting/longing for God and his tears have become constant food. He’s questioning “when he will see the face of God” and on top that (adding insult to injury) his enemies are taunting him in asking “where is your God?” He also remembers the joy of what it was like to be in communion with God and he has lost that.
4. Read Psalm 42:5-8
A. Whom does the psalmist take in hand, and how does he talk to her? (v. 5)
His soul.
He asks her questions…”why are you discouraged, why is my heart so sad?”
He answers her…”I will put my hope in God, I will praise Him again – my Savior and my God!”
B. Verse 7 is both a positive and negative water picture. Spurgeon says the “deep voice of God speaks deep into our souls,” even as the breakers are washing over us.” Share a time of trouble when God spoke His love to you.
He spoke His love to me after we lost our son. I know others were praying for us as the sorrow was so deep and I couldn’t or didn’t know how to pour my heart out to God. I just know He never left me even though He felt so far away…only the Holy Spirit!
C. The psalmist describes what he knows about God. What does he say?
Each day the Lord pours His unfailing love upon me. He gives me life.
From Sharon from the time they lost their son:
I know others were praying for us as the sorrow was so deep and I couldn’t or didn’t know how to pour my heart out to God. I just know He never left me even though He felt so far away…only the Holy Spirit!
What a difficult time for you and your family, Sharon! Thank you for this: I just know He never left me even though He felt so far away…only the Holy Spirit! and this:Each day the Lord pours His unfailing love upon me. He gives me life.
Read Psalm 42:1-4.
A. Find the two negative water pictures that describe his sadness. As deer panting for streams of water so his soul pants for God. Tears have been his food day and night.
B. What is he longing for but does not have? His God and describe the circumstances of the psalmist and how he is feeling. Look carefully. (Hint: There are two negative water pictures and one picture of what he has lost.) He is longing for God, thirsting for God and being able to worship God with joy and thanksgiving.
4. Read Psalm 42:5-8
A. Whom does the psalmist take in hand, and how does he talk to her? (v. 5) His soul asking why he is so downcast. Tells self to put hope in God and praise Him.
B. Verse 7 is both a positive and negative water picture. Spurgeon says the “deep voice of God speaks deep into our souls,” even as the breakers are washing over us.” Share a time of trouble when God spoke His love to you. Turmoil these days as hubby has been in an angry state and turmoil at my church. God just keeps me aware of His closeness and tenderness, but I must take the time to exhale and stay close to Him.
C. The psalmist describes what he knows about God. What does he say? By day God directs His love, at night His song is with me. A prayer to the God of my life.
5. Read Psalm 42:9-11.
A. How is the psalmist honest with God in verses 9-10? Why is this important? He calls God his Rock and asks God why He has forgotten him. He is honest about what he is feeling He’s not ignoring the situation He is seeking God and answers.
B. What does he do again? What does this tell you? He asks his soul why downcast and tells himself to put his hope in God and to praise God His Savior. It tells me to take the focus on how I feel and put my focus on God and praise and thank Him.
So good, Judy. Changing focus from how we feel to God and His love and wisdom.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? – Oh, the busyness of the season. I enjoy just sitting and looking at the tree in our living room with the lights only from the tree on, but then the thoughts of family, kids, grandkids, comes to mind. I think of ways to not be busy during this time, and tell myself every year, I’m going to do it sooner, but if fail at that each year. I’ve definitely cut back and try and buy small things for the grands and find a family gift for memories to be made. It seems to help with the rush of things. I would love to get to the point where I find something memorable and not think it’s up to me to provide ‘Christmas’ for all of them.
2. Tell us something you are thankful for concerning your Thanksgiving. And if you feel it didn’t go well, find a redeeming truth. – My husband and I have no blood family where we now live in NE Tennessee and we were content in just being by ourselves this Thanksgiving but talking to a ‘new’ friend about what each were going to do, her and her husband invited us to their home to be with them and their kids. I was a little anxious not really knowing either her or her husband, but we felt God had led that conversation and I didn’t want to not go. We had a great time, some yummy food and good conversation that helped us all get to know each other a little better. It was definitely a God appointed time.
Great testimony about reaching out!
Julie, so glad for you and your husband to have taken the step of accepting the invitation. God sure has a way of blessing us through other people.
Julie–you inspired me with your thanksgiving story! We’ve had people ask us over in the past but have started a habit of just getting away…but your “brave” story makes me think we should give it a try next year! Fellowship and community is a beautiful gift.
Monday: Speaking Truth to our Souls
3. Read Psalm 42:1-4.
A. Find the two negative water pictures that describe his sadness – The streams of water and his tears?? I’m not sure on this, but the sadness I think comes when we try to find God in things that will not comfort us. We sit in worry and sadness through our circumstances instead of running to meet God where we know he really is. His Word. His Word will bring us comfort during trying times.
B. What is he longing for but does not have? and describe the circumstances of the psalmist and how he is feeling. Look carefully. (Hint: There are two negative water pictures and one picture of what he has lost.) -I think I answered this above, but we long to have peace in every situation, but that is not what God’s Word says. We will have trials and sadness, but if we long to seek Him, we will find a kind of peace that others will not be able to understand, and this peace will soften the weariness of the time. He is looking for God to comfort him and I think he is always there with us, but we don’t sense him there because are thoughts are not on His promises and blesses but on our awful situation we are in.
4. Read Psalm 42:5-8
A. Whom does the psalmist take in hand, and how does he talk to her? (v. 5) – his soul. He is asking and, in a sense, reminding his soul to not dwell on the sad but to look for his comfort.
B. Verse 7 is both a positive and negative water picture. Spurgeon says the “deep voice of God speaks deep into our souls,” even as the breakers are washing over us.” Share a time of trouble when God spoke His love to you. – Oh there are so many times, because I can’t automatically reach for God instead of the troubles. But I think for me it’s every time I realize his blessing has come after I’ve cried out to him in my need. He is always faithful to me but waits for me to cry out to him and I think this is him wanting to see my obedience and faith in him and not my circumstance.
C. The psalmist describes what he knows about God. What does he say? – He knows God is love and will comfort him in the night and sing with him in the day.
5. Read Psalm 42:9-11.
A. How is the psalmist honest with God in verses 9-10? Why is this important? – His lament is showing God he is struggling and needs him to help. It shows God that he is aware of the struggles but will praise him in the midst of it. I think it shows that he is not replying on himself, but is reaching and crying out to God, the only one who can help him through it.
B. What does he do again? What does this tell you? – he again speaks to his soul and reminds the soul that they will continue to praise him in the storm. It’s a great reminder to not settle for the trouble, but to speak it out, make God aware of the struggle but that I know he will be there at some time to comfort me and in the meantime, I will get some peace by praising His name.
5. Read Psalm 42:9-11.
A. How is the psalmist honest with God in verses 9-10? Why is this important?
He feels forgotten by God, so he asks why He’s forgotten him. He’s grieving and feeling oppressed by his enemies, so he asks why do I have to wonder in my grief and be oppressed. He expresses that their taunts of “where is this God of yours,” break his bones. I think it’s important to express to God just how you feel and God knows what we’re thinking so it’s best to be honest with ourselves as well as God.
B. What does he do again? What does this tell you?
He questions again as to why he’s discouraged and sad but then says he will put his hope in God, will praise Him again – my Savior and my God. It tells me that it’s ok to be discouraged and sad as long as we place our hope in God, turn to Him and praise Him in spite of how we feel.
I love this entire post, Sharon. I needed this today.
Sharon–you have so much wisdom. I love how you pointed out being honest with God. My church staff retreat was Friday and the theme was “lament” (before hope). We talked about how important it is to cry out and express our feelings, as you said, to God.
5. Read Psalm 42:9-11.
A. How is the psalmist honest with God in verses 9-10? Why is this important?
He admits he thinks God has forgotten him. He says others laugh at him for thinking God cares.
We have a relationship with God. That means we speak truth to Him. He wants us to do this.
B. What does he do again? What does this tell you?
He decides to praise God again. He remembers how it was the last time he felt this way, and realizes that he got through it then, and with God he can get through it again.
Monday: Speaking Truth to our Souls
3. Read Psalm 42:1-4.
A. Find the two negative water pictures that describe his sadness.
Panting for streams of water and thirsting for God; Tears being my food day and night.
B. What is he longing for but does not have?
He is looking for God and not finding Him.
and describe the circumstances of the psalmist and how he is feeling. Look carefully. (Hint: There are two negative water pictures and one picture of what he has lost.)
The psalmist is desperate to find and meet God. He talks about losing the joy when he is with others in the house of God.
4. Read Psalm 42:5-8
A. Whom does the psalmist take in hand, and how does he talk to her? (v. 5)
He is talking to his soul and asking her why she is downcast and disturbed and to put her hope in God.
B. Verse 7 is both a positive and negative water picture. Spurgeon says the “deep voice of God speaks deep into our souls,” even as the breakers are washing over us.” Share a time of trouble when God spoke His love to you.
Because of my struggle with the idol of approval, a fading friendship often troubles me. I feel unlovely, unloved, disapproved of, and sometimes, betrayed. God speaks to me through His word reminding me of my value to Him and that He is all I would ever need. And He is my friend who would never leave me nor forsake me.
I have also been most helped by your book, Idol Lies, Dee. I remember reading the section on relational idolatry. I have loosened my grip on my friendships since then. When similar situations come, which just did, last week, I go back to the Word of God and as I have learned here, speak truth to my soul.
C. The psalmist describes what he knows about God. What does he say?
God is the God of His life, directing his love to the psalmist as well as giving him songs during the “night” perhaps, referring to the dark nights of his soul.
5. Read Psalm 42:9-11.
A. How is the psalmist honest with God in verses 9-10? Why is this important?
The psalmist asked God about how He seemed to have forgotten him. God has not been paying attention to his mourning and feelings of oppression by the enemy who are taunting him and mocking him. “Where is your God?”
B. What does he do again? What does this tell you?
He talks to his soul again. Telling her to put her hope in God and praising God for who He is. My Savior and my God. This tells me to persevere by talking to my soul and acknowledging who God is. It is so easy to turn to other things when we are lamenting in life. My best antidote to discouragement, depression, and despair is to turn to my God and remind myself of who He is.
Bing,
”Idol Lies” was an important resource in my life as well. It spoke truth into my life (and to my soul” that I needed.
Amen, Bev !
Thanks Bing, Bev, and Patti! And thanks to Tim Keller for enlightening me!
Monday: Speaking Truth to our Souls
3. Read Psalm 42:1-4.
A. Find the two negative water pictures that describe his sadness
—As a deer longs for a drink of water so the Psalmist longs for and is thirsty for God.
And crying tears are all he knows (his food) day and night.
B. What is he longing for but does not have? and describe the circumstances of the psalmist and how he is feeling. Look carefully. (Hint: There are two negative water pictures and one picture of what he has lost.)
—He is looking back to the past when he was in the company of many other worshippers going to the house of God leading them in singing and praise. He is now heartbroken recognizing what he has lost.
4. Read Psalm 42:5-8
A. Whom does the psalmist take in hand, and how does he talk to her? (v. 5)
—His soul. He questions why she is troubled and reminds her to hope in God and to praise God.
B. Verse 7 is both a positive and negative water picture. Spurgeon says the “deep voice of God speaks deep into our souls,” even as the breakers are washing over us.” Share a time of trouble when God spoke His love to you.
—In this past year I was troubled in my soul over my Mom’s situation of now being completely incapacitated in a care home and so was my sister who is a very strong and committed believer. But as we separately and often in times together prayed over Mom and read the Bible, God as our gracious Father brought a definite and real peace to our hearts about her situation. The most wonderful reassurance was of His presence with Mom.
“……..for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
A beautiful thing God has done in this past year has been to give my sister and I a considerably greater amount of time to be together (more than usual) to enjoy sweet fellowship and times of prayer. We have truly felt his love for us and our Mom.
C. The psalmist describes what he knows about God. What does he say?
—“But each day the Lord pours his unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing his songs, praying to God who gives me life.” Psalms 42:8 NLT
—This verse says it all to what I just wrote in answer to B.
5. Read Psalm 42:9-11.
A. How is the psalmist honest with God in verses 9-10? Why is this important?
—I would say “baring his soul” to God is cathartic. He is completely honest in his questioning and verbalizing his grief. It is important to not bottle up and stuff our grief. It has to come put somehow and the best place is at the feet of Jesus.
B. What does he do again? What does this tell you?
—He reminds his soul of the need to “Hope in God” and to give “praise to his God again”.
It is a wonderful reminder that stopping and reminding our selves to out our hope in our God to give Him praise that it will lift us put of our grief and despair.
Bev, I loved what you shared about your Mom…continued prayers for you, your sister and Mom.
This also really spoke to me..” It is important to not bottle up and stuff our grief. It has to come out somehow and the best place is at the feet of Jesus.” I tend to keep things bottled up so I need to remember this🙏
I love how prayer has been a sweet time of fellowship with your sister. God does many amazing things through prayer including strengthening our bonds with those we pray.
Bev, it is indeed good to stop, pause, and remind ourselves to put our hope in God.
It is so sweet how the Lord has given you and your sister time together to share in prayer and to see how God is so present in His comforting care for the three of you. Love your placing your grief, gratitude, love and needs at the feet of Jesus.
4. Read Psalm 42:5-8
A. Whom does the psalmist take in hand, and how does he talk to her? (v. 5) He is talking to his soul and asking why she is in such despair.
B. Verse 7 is both a positive and negative water picture. Spurgeon says the “deep voice of God speaks deep into our souls,” even as the breakers are washing over us.” Share a time of trouble when God spoke His love to you. In the moments alone in the night, or in the daytime when a wave of grief overcomes me, I hear Him speak to my soul that He has a plan, though I cannot see it clearly. I have Isaiah 43: 1-2 on a card at my computer. I read it and He speaks to my soul. I pray the Psalms and He speaks His love. I read His Word and I know I can trust Him. I read “The God of All Comfort” (by Dee) and I am encouraged by Dee’s journey.
C. The psalmist describes what he knows about God. What does he say? His hope is in God and he will once again praise Him; His presence will help; Remembering what God has done will help. Our God will send His lovingkindness. Praise and Prayer word together.
5. Read Psalm 42:9-11.
A. How is the psalmist honest with God in verses 9-10? Why is this important? I need to pour out my soul to God in an honest way. I am devastated and without Him I am nothing. He is my hope. The enemy is death and depression. He has overcome all of that. He will keep me in His care.
B. What does he do again? What does this tell you? He speaks to His soul. He hopes in God. He Praises His Name. I will Praise Him!
Patti, thank you for sharing all the ways that God speaks His love to you!
“ In the moments alone in the night, or in the daytime when a wave of grief overcomes me, I hear Him speak to my soul that He has a plan, though I cannot see it clearly. I have Isaiah 43: 1-2 on a card at my computer. I read it and He speaks to my soul. I pray the Psalms and He speaks His love. I read His Word and I know I can trust Him. I read “The God of All Comfort” (by Dee) and I am encouraged by Dee’s journey.”
You showed me the importance of being proactive too, which is so important.
🙏❤️😊
Thank you for your example of faith in hard times, I continue to pray for your comfort.
Patti, much love to you these days. Isaiah 43:1-2-such comfort.
I am so thankful for the encouragement that flows from one to another here!
I am so thankful for all of you and I so appreciate your prayers. I am blessed by each of you in so many ways.
Dear friends, my friend Deb Johnson. starts her chemo today. She is still trying to learn how to navigate the blog and she told me that she really appreciated all your welcome messages. Please pray she can tolerate this round of chemo. She has done very well in the first before surgery.
prayers for minimal side effects and maximum effectiveness for Deb
Thank you, Judy!
Dearest Lord Jesus, our friend Deb is beginning a trial. We know You have her in the palm of Your hand. Help her to remember that You are always with her. Help her remember using this verse:
“For I hold you by your right hand— I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.”
Isaiah 41:13 NLT
Thank You Lord. Amen.
Lord, I do lift up Deb — please have mercy on her with this chemo, and help her navigate the blog too!
Thanks for the update Bing.
Dear Lord May Deb feel your arms of love wrapped around her durning this time of treatment and remember that You are her hope, her Savior and God. Amen
I too pray for Deb as she goes through this round if chemo. Asking God to strengthen and encourage her and for His healing hand to be in this therapy.
I understand it takes some time to learn to navigate the blog. I’m a bit slow with technology and it took me sometime to settle in on what worked best for me.
Thanks Bing for letting us know so we can pray for Deb.
Praying for dear Deb to be able to tolerate this round of chemo. So thankful she has joined the blog. Amen to the prayers of our sisters on this blog.
Thank you, ladies, for your prayers for Deb. She has brought a lot of encouragement to me and to our Bible Study group.
6. Listen to the above and share what stands out to you and why. A lot packed into his short message. Control self not let emotions control me. Speak truth to myself and the truth is from God’s word. Tell self to shut up instead use the wisdom of the Bible to align self and have the joy God wants me to have that can be passed onto others. It seems wise to me to speak God s truth into myself and stop listening or agreeing with any voice that doesn’t affirm me as a beloved child of God.
Thank you for this, Judy: It seems wise to me to speak God’s truth into myself and stop listening or agreeing with any voice that doesn’t affirm me as a beloved child of God.
Good comment Judy,
“It seems wise to me to speak God s truth into myself and stop listening or agreeing with any voice that doesn’t affirm me as a beloved child of God.”
3. Read Psalm 42:1-4. A. Find the two negative water pictures that describe his sadness
Thirst, tears
B. What is he longing for but does not have?
He longs for God but does not believe he has Him.
4. Read Psalm 42:5-8 A. Whom does the psalmist take in hand, and how does he talk to her? (v. 5)
He speaks truth to his soul.
B. Verse 7 is both a positive and negative water picture. Spurgeon says the “deep voice of God speaks deep into our souls,” even as the breakers are washing over us.” Share a time of trouble when God spoke His love to you.
I have had a long season of trials but just recently felt the Lord making clear to me how He longs to hear my cries. He puts my tears in His bottle. The Psalms prove that He wants to hear us cry out to Him. It is not complaining or weakness, or being too needy—He wants to hear, He has a special closeness with the brokenhearted. I have been struck by the power of God’s “with-ness”. He is with me, and though circumstances may not change, I am changed because He is with me. I know few will understand how deeply I mean this, but my dog Abby, we got 4 years ago and she is my 10th dog, but I struggle to even call her a dog. When I was 4 I begged God to give me a living stuffed animal, and she is that, and is extremely attached to me. She will not let me out of her sight when I am home. But even more, she can somehow sense my sadness, even before I cry. Just last night, she was curled up at my feet and a wave of grief came over me, but before I made even a slight sound, she jumped into my lap, paws on either side of my face and started licking my tears as they fell. There’s so much more to her story, but she is honestly evidence of His presence and care for me in these hard times.
C. The psalmist describes what he knows about God. What does he say?
He is my salvation, my hope, His love is steadfast, He is with me.
5. Read Psalm 42:9-11. A. How is the psalmist honest with God in verses 9-10? Why is this important?
He questions God’s presence. It is important because we learn here that coming to God with our questions is acceptable to HIm. Only He can answer. Giving Him our honest cries is what He wants from us.
B. What does he do again? What does this tell you?
He turns back to his own heart and challenges his thoughts, reminding himself of the truth. We must talk truth to our soul in those moments rather than listen to our feelings.
6. Listen to the above and share what stands out to you and why.
This clip is from my favorite talk by Reeves. It has stuck with me for years—this default mode I have of “He loves me, He loves me not…” And I love the idea of carving Romans 5 in my table! I have to constantly put the Truth of His Word before me because the lies of the world and the enemy, scream from all directions. When I am weak, and bruised by the wounds of others, I am most vulnerable to listening to the lies. The psalmist talked about tears being his food, we can picture he is not in good “self-care” mode. It makes me think of how many counselors stress the heightened need to care for yourself during trauma and trials, because we can become vulnerable to even more pain, and truth becomes harder and harder to hear, His mercies are harder to see, and we begin to doubt His presence.
Lizzy, I always love hearing about your dog, Abby. I am glad you have had a pet for so many years. Sam is to Ruth somehow like Abby is to you. And now she has Ms. Ellie, the cat. But you are right. God, His with-ness with us is such a comfort. How you cling to the Lord amidst your ongoing pain is beautiful to watch and a testament to the goodness of God. He will hold you fast!
Abby — an angel in disguise!
Oh Lizzy, how I relate to your story about Abby…thank You Lord for sweet Abby!
Lizzy, This comment from you really stood out to me because it is what God has impressed on my heart for my Mom.
(The power of God’s “with-ness”)
“I have been struck by the power of God’s “with-ness”. He is with me, and though circumstances may not change, I am changed because He is with me.“
I’m glad you touch base here with us. It is always good to know how you are doing. And God bless that dog (Abby) 💕
Amen, Bev!
Oh, Lizzy! It is so good to read this post from you. I so understand how you feel about Abby. I do believe that God sends us comfort in many ways, and in my life, my dogs have been a very special source of comfort. There is so much truth in your post and I do believe that our dogs can sense our emotions, without any words spoken. I love this: I have been struck by the power of God’s “with-ness”. He is with me, and though circumstances may not change, I am changed because He is with me.
6. Listen to the above and share what stands out to you and why.
Miserable Christians! Oh yes! It is so true. I was/can be that way. UGH. I have been better in the past 10 years, and I am getting better too! I see it in my work with the teens at school. I wish I could be better with it with my family.
Hang in there Laura, We have God’s truth to speak to ourselves and He is changing us by his Word to be more like Him. God is truly our hope.
Tuesday: Mike Reeves
6. Listen to the above and share what stands out to you and why.
Don’t let self control you – control yourself…with God’s truth. Truth lies outside ourselves in the Word of God not inside us.
Oh, that I would keep His truth, the Word, the Gospel (I can’t earn anything) before me. Hope in God and praise will flow from that!!!
Amen, Sharon!
Tuesday: Mike Reeves
6. Listen to the above and share what stands out to you and why.
—This stood out to me.
“Your doubts are no measure of truth. The truth is not found in you. Gods truth is fixed outside ourselves here in this book (the Bible). “
He said “Our feelings and thoughts are not a reliable guide to reality.” And to “Control yourself with the Word from outside of yourself.”
From this great little sermon Reeves made it plain that we cannot trust our feelings and that it is God’s Word (the Bible) that is the answer to our heart’s doubts and needs and fears. It tickled me when he said “Self, Shut up!!” Don’t let self control you. Control yourself with the Word…
What great reminders. 💕
Wednesday: Promises to Overcome Sadness
7. Like the psalmist, you may feel abandoned or forgotten by God. Take your soul in hand and speak the truth and promise of Romans 8:32 to her.
Self: God gave you His greatest gift of all, His Son and since He did that, is there anything else He wouldn’t graciously give you?
8. Do you believe the above? If you doubt, ask God for help with your unbelief.
I don’t doubt that but I do understand that He will give me what is best and just what I need in every situation.
“Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.”
James 1:17 NLT
9. Pray the same for our brethren suffering horrors in Ukraine and Israel, or, for someone you know who is struggling with depression.
7. Like the psalmist, you may feel abandoned or forgotten by God. Take your soul in hand and speak the truth and promise of Romans 8:32 to her. Soul, God didn’t spare His own Son in order to bridge the gap between mankind and Himself. He is not going to abandon you now! Nothing, absolutely nothing, can separate you from the love of God that is demonstrated to you by the love of Jesus our King.
8. Do you believe the above? If you doubt, ask God for help with your unbelief. Yes I do believe Father, if there are situations that come up that tempt me to doubt your wisdom, love or Presence, bring scripture and Your goodness to my mind.
9. Pray the same for our brethren suffering horrors in Ukraine and Israel, or, for someone you know who is struggling with depression. Father, I know You love your people. Speak into their hearts, minds, or spirits through Your Spirit or through others that You have not abandoned them. Encourage them to turn their face toward You and call out to You. Reiterate Your promises to never leave or forsake them.
Wednesday: Promises to Overcome Sadness
“ There is no pit so deep that God love is not deeper still.”
7. Like the psalmist, you may feel abandoned or forgotten by God. Take your soul in hand and speak the truth and promise of Romans 8:32 to her.
“He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?”
Romans 8:32 ESV
—Just ahead of this in verse 31 it says “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”
What an amazing thing to have a God Who is for us and promises to graciously give us all things. We have untold treasures in Heaven and we have access to some even now. Like joy.
8. Do you believe the above? If you doubt, ask God for help with your unbelief.
—I do believe and rest in the love of my Heavenly Father. Oh how he settles my heart with the truth of his Word.
9. Pray the same for our brethren suffering horrors in Ukraine and Israel, or, for someone you know who is struggling with depression.
Father I pray for Blaine that the truth of your word would penetrate his heart and speak to his soul and bring him a clear understanding of the gospel.
1. What stands out and why?
I am reading this on what would have been the 44th birthday of our daughter Abigail who died after open heart surgery when she was 14 months old. I remember being overwhelmed with this same thought of despair Dee.
“You will never have joy again. You are not going to make it.”
And how absolutely necessary it became for me to take my soul in hand and remind myself of what is true.
That He is with me right there in the dark and hard place. That there is hope because of Christ.
Nila, I so appreciate all you share. I pray for you today, as I know these kinds of days can be like a huge wave. Love that Reeves emphasizes that God’s truth is fixed.
Nila, much love to you. I cannot imagine losing a child. I am blessed by your testimony of holding on to God in the midst of your pain.
Nila — someone with the last name of Meeker came on your post about Abigail saying he had met her.
Thank you Dee. 🙂
6. Listen to the above and share what stands out to you and why. There is so much in what Mike Reeves says! Self is destructive. Our hearts lie to our emotions. I am realizing how important it is to pour out my feelings to God and then to be still and listen to His voice speaking to me through His Word, praise and prayer. Listening to “self” is how we feel, which can lead us to dark places; reading God’s Word and speaking it to our souls is where the truth is ~ the truth lies outside of ourselves~ God’s truth is fixed! It is unaffected by our emotions. It is the key to Joy!
Tuesday: Mike Reeves
6. Listen to the above and share what stands out to you and why. – Wow! Mike’s first comment about miserable Christians, YIKES. I really need to make sure that I’m not portraying that look or feeling to others. I don’ want to be the reason why someone turns away for reading and following Christ. But I also need to let them know that in me they will not find their joy, the true joy they are looking for is in His Gospel and they need to really grasp the true meaning of the gospel and understand it, and once they do there, they will find joy. I’m so glad that talking to myself is a sign of wisdom because I do that a lot. I need to take over the control of my thoughts and talk more to myself so I don’t get in a position of thinking I can’t approach God because of my circumstances. His truth is never changing. It doesn’t matter what my circumstances may be, the joy found in the gospel is there all the time, no matter where I may be at in my life.
Wednesday: Promises to Overcome Sadness
7. Like the psalmist, you may feel abandoned or forgotten by God. Take your soul in hand and speak the truth and promise of Romans 8:32 to her. – Soul – you need to remember just how loving Jesus is. He hasn’t forgotten us, we don’t need wallow in or sadness. He came so we may have joy and peace in our lives. We need to make our life count for Him. We need to not waste His love on the cross, because we think he doesn’t see us. He does!
8. Do you believe the above? If you doubt, ask God for help with your unbelief. – I do believe and remember the sacrifice he has made for me, a sinner and stranger. But he has so much unconditional love for me and for all of us, that we need to tap into that. We need to remember all the things he has done for us in the past and know that it won’t stop. He will continue to provide each and everything we need. We need to just talk to ourselves and not listen to our thoughts, but be still and quiet to hear His voice.
9. Pray the same for our brethren suffering horrors in Ukraine and Israel, or, for someone you know who is struggling with depression. – Oh Lord, this time of year is hard for so many people. So many feel that you are not near, and they can’t feel your presence in their lives. Hug them Lord, be near to them and whisper and bring peace to their hearts and minds. Bring someone to them that can help them see that you are there. We all need you now Lord, but especially those who are struggling and in a terrible spot. You are in control, and we need to let you have that control, and let you take over our down casting thoughts. In your name I pray. Amen.
I skipped the beginning question about Thanksgiving because mine was hard, and felt too hard to share. Actually, I asked to stay home from work this week because I have struggled to hold back tears, and I have realized that as I was raised to not express my needs or sadness, I don’t know how to be around people if I can’t hold back the tears. Here, it’s safer, but even with my church staff that I love, I feel my value is based on how I care for others and when I am such a mess that I can’t–I’d rather stay home.
This season has felt especially hard this year as I have lost my daughter, who just had her 20th birthday, and she is with my mom and sisters, who I was also disowned by–they cut me off but have welcomed her after she left me–so there is this extra twist of pain. And yet, without a physical death, there is not the normal sympathies or anyone who relates to all I feel inside, this terrible grief mixed with the pain of rejection. I hope this year is the worst and I can begin to get used to this in time, but it is very hard this time of year to be around so many families and Hallmark movies claiming family is everything, when my husband and I both have no contact with anyone. My kids have never had aunts or uncles, cousins, or grandparents, on either side, and it’s hard not to feel I have failed them, or their biological mothers.
Sorry for that unloading but I am trying to not just hide in my pain. It’s so hard to share, it always feels like too much. But the alternative of closing off has gotten very lonely. So all of you got my messiest self, I’m sorry!
For months I’ve been battling nightmares and I made a list of Scriptures about His protection. I’ll share a few here as they speak also to not fearing:
Psalm 18:30 This God—His way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; He is a shield for all those who take refuge in Him.
Psalm 5:12 For You bless the righteous, O Lord; You cover him with favor as with a shield.
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Psalm 28:7 The Lord is my strength and my shield; in Him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him.
Ps. 18:2 The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in Whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Ps. 91:4-He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
2 Timothy 4:18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom.
Lizzy — I think how you have grown in being vulnerable, and how healing that is. I am so proud of you. I often think of the psalm “Even if my mother or father should forsake me, I never will…” So glad you sense His withness.
Now, if I can just get you and Patti to put your pictures up instead of your dogs, that will be real progress. 🙂
I love you dearly.
Oh, dear…I will try to find a photo. 🙂 this mad me laugh, Dee! 🙂
I LOVE YOUR PICTURE!!
Lizzie, I am so sorry for this deep grief you carry but glad you are able to voice it here. Years ago I experienced rejection at a different level so I have a small sense of your pain. I trust God in your life and pray for your comfort
What wonderful verses from God’s Word to protect and encourage you that God’s hand is on your life.
Lizzy, I see the grace and love of God in your life despite your family’s rejection of you. But oh, the pain. I am glad you are able to come here and share your pain with us. Thank you for sharing the verses above. You are speaking to your soul and putting your hope in God.
Oh, Lizzy! My heart cries out to our Lord, as I read this. This is the rejection we, now I, have felt from our beloved son. It is so hard. Thank you for sharing your pain and struggles. I know it is so hard to see God’s hand in this situation. How I pray that He will give you the strength to endure it. I pray for all those who are causing this pain ~ that somehow, our Father will open their eyes and their hearts. I pray that you will feel His comfort with the things that we, as humans, cannot change. You are so loved and safe on this blog space and I pray that you will feel that love and comfort.
Lizzy, I echo the sentiments the ladies have offered here. I’m so glad you shared (it’s what makes us a family!)! I wish I could come have tea with you. Maybe when I retire and we get our RV and take off across the country homeschooling the kids. It will be a couple of years from now.
I am like you and Patti and others. Our oldest will not speak to us and we have never seen our grandson. He will be 2 in Feb. It is so sad that people can be so mean. I don’t know the circumstances for you, but it seems that every family lately has had these same occurrences. I will pray for you.
Lizzy, I’m so glad you feel comfort here in this group to share and to not bottle it up. You are loved by us all and especially by God. He is a God for restoration and in time will heal this situation. It’s so hard to wait on His timing, but in the end it will such a wonderful reunion. Hugs to you Lizzy and I will be praying.
My heart aches for you, Lizzy. How I pray that the Lord will bring a renewed feeling of family into your lives. We are all a part of the family of God. I am now an orphan with no siblings. I understand loneliness and rejection. I am so thankful that you feel safe sharing on this blog space. You have given your children family, even if you have no extended family. You have not failed your children, you and your husband have given them the love of yourselves. That is a greatest gift. My husband and I did not have a huge extended family and our children don’t have a lot of cousins, but there are many others like us. Your boys have love and comfort and you are teaching them to care well for others by the wonderful projects you do to help others in need. How I pray that our Father will help you to know what a gift you are to all who know you. You have many sisters right here on this blog.
Thursday: Promises to Overcome Temptation
10. Pray these promises or others to help you overcome whatever tempts you and brings you down.
2 Peter 1: 2-8 NIV
Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;
and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;
and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.
For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
—I have been attempting to memorize this passage. I’m only a few verses into it as I am very slow but these verses are so incredibly rich speaking to the “knowledge” of God and of Jesus our Lord and how that impacts our lives. I found them to be encouraging as well in speaking to overcoming temptation and the things which bring me down. I love verse 3 that says “his divine power has given us everything we need to live a godly life”. And that we “may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires”. These are great promises to take hold of when temptation comes attempting to corrupt with evil desires.
7. Like the psalmist, you may feel abandoned or forgotten by God. Take your soul in hand and speak the truth and promise of Romans 8:32 to her
Oh boy. How I struggle raising kiddos.
I am not a natural game person. I don’t like board games 🤷🏻♀️. I do like cards though. I don’t like them because I am not good at them. This is how I feel about raising kids. My granddaughter is really giving me a run for my money lately. I feel like I’m in a tailspin downward and can’t bust out. Everything I do is wrong. UGH! Lord I know You are here. Please help me understand how to make it better. Send the Holy Spirit to me soon! I know You care about us. I know You have rescued me in the past. I just don’t want her to turn out like our kids did 😔. I need Your guidance so I don’t mess it up. If I know how to handle her I can carry out the process well. I just don’t know where to turn or what to do right now. I’m sure I will somehow figure it out, but sometimes I need a knock on the head!
Laura — I so admire you for raising your grandchildren. It’s hard work and I think God meant for those who had energy, but you are doing it. I will pray for yu.
Oh, Laura! I feel you since that is how I feel about our daughter. I have to daily give up control and manipulation and my prideful thoughts of “changing” my daughter so I can say that she is the better because of me. Ugh! I know God is the only one who can transform her, and me. Don’t give up. The Lord sees you and your struggles. Like Dee, I admire you for raising your grandchildren. God hears the deep cries of our mothers’ hearts.
Thank you for the encouraging words, Dee and Bing. After this post, I went to a website I have joined called “A Fine Parent Academy.” These people read books about parenting from experts and then offer resources (master classes) about the books. They interview the authors and ask them specific questions. It really is helpful. I found a master class about “The Power of Showing Up,” that looked interesting but I had no idea what it was about…I listened and it really helped me! I tell you what, God has got my back!!
You are so resourceful!
Laura, what a gift of love and life you are giving to your grandchildren. This world is a difficult place to raise children right now. I will pray for wisdom, strength and direction for you, as you guide your grandchildren through this wild and challenging world. May the Lord be with you every day and night!
Thank you for any prayers! He is so good to me, Patti. I’m so thankful.
Laura-over the years I have continued to be so amazed at your sacrificial love for your grandkids, and your daughter. I can only imagine how long and difficult the days can be but I know the Lord smiles on you and will bless this holy work you are doing of giving them a home and love. Give yourself a lot of grace and just keep praying–He is with you! Just as He told you in the night.
6. Listen to the above and share what stands out to you and why.
Oh, I just love this from Mike Reeves! He is an example of being a joyful Christian. Many things stood out to me so I am just going to do snippets instead of complete sentences
Brush your teeth with Psalm 42 (I am printing Psalm 42 to post in our bathroom)
If we are not joyful Christians, we have not grasp the gospel properly.
Talking to yourself is the first sign of wisdom. Don’t listen to yourself.
Our feelings are so fickle, our hearts lie and you can’t trust yourself. Don’t let yourself control you.
The self is a terrible master who always leads to the darkest places.
Control yourself- it is the essential key to joyful Christian maturity.
God relates to me based on how I behave; yoyoing in my relationship with God. He loves me; he loves me not. Our doubts are no measure of truth. The truth is not found in you; it is fixed outside of ourselves in the bible.
Why would Jesus die on the cross if a quiet time or fill in the blank here _________ would do it? (Good question to ask myself often.)
Joyful integrity-you will be the most attractive ambassador for Christ.
7. Like the psalmist, you may feel abandoned or forgotten by God. Take your soul in hand and speak the truth and promise of Romans 8:32 to her.
“He who did not spare His own son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things.”
Soul, one gift, and one gift alone, and that is, Jesus has been given to me. Everything else, all of it, god will graciously give to me. And because He is good, everything is good. This is the truth no matter how I feel, no matter how others treat me, no matter what pain there is in the world. Just like what Mike Reeves said, “ If a quiet time (or any other good thing I think I can do would do, why would Jesus die on the cross?) Stop it, you moron (Reeves said), control yourself, fix your mind on the truth outside of yourself. Read, believe, and obey the Word!
8. Do you believe the above? If you doubt, ask God for help with your unbelief.
Lord, help my unbelief, let what I know in my head, be what my heart would know as well.
9. Pray the same for our brethren suffering horrors in Ukraine and Israel, or, for someone you know who is struggling with depression.
Lord, I see those eyes of suffering and hopelessness in pictures of the people of Ukraine and Israel. Help them talk to their souls and send your Word to them through Christians and your written Word. I pray for the people I know who are suffering from depression. Let them find you as their joy. Penetrate their hearts and woo them to yourself. You are the only One who can transform depression into joy.
10. Pray these promises or others to help you overcome whatever tempts you and brings you down.
His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 2 Peter 1:3
Lord, what I have now is your provision for my living a godly life. I want to know more of you as you are the perfect example of godliness. Thank you for the mercy and grace you have extended to me. Let this promise be ever before me when I feel defeated and alone.
no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the LORD.
Lord, every day the enemy tries to bring in the heat or hammer his plans in my life and those I love. I am claiming your promise that this ploy will not prevail. Any accusing tongue you will refute. Thank you that Jesus is interceding for me at your right hand and the Spirit intercedes for me with words I cannot say.
Dee, thank you for asking us to write God’s promises and to pray them here. Such a blessed practice to incorporate into my life!
Sweet Bing–love this verse from 2 Peter, and pray this with you “Let this promise be ever before me when I feel defeated and alone”
Thursday: Promises to Overcome Temptation
10. Pray these promises or others to help you overcome whatever tempts you and brings you down.
“Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires.”
Romans 13:14 NLT
With my One Word being “Clothe” this last year, this verse has become my prayer in so many situations of temptation and it will continue to be.
This is such good verse, Sharon. I am going to add this to my daily prayer.
GREAT VERSE — LIKE THE NLT TOO
7. Like the psalmist, you may feel abandoned or forgotten by God. Take your soul in hand and speak the truth and promise of Romans 8:32 to her.
Lord, you have given me the Greatest of all gifts, Your Son. He gave His life on the cross, so that I may spend eternity with you. Help me to see in my soul that no matter how I feel, that the reality is that You are here with me, directing my life so that it will glorify You.
Soul, you need to be willing to let go of all that I am trying to hold on to and to give it freely to the Father, so that He can do His will in my life. I am a weak and broken vessel and I do not feel capable of doing anything worthy some days.
8. Do you believe the above? If you doubt, ask God for help with your unbelief.
Lord, help me to see you more clearly. Help me to live by the words I pray. Help me to love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly.
9. Pray the same for our brethren suffering horrors in Ukraine and Israel, or, for someone you know who is struggling with depression.
Dear Lord, so many of us on this blog are struggling right now, with very real problems. I pray that you will speak Your love to our souls and give us all Your peace and comfort. Lord, be with the many brothers and sisters suffering in so many places in the world right now. It feels like a ball of yarn coming unraveled. Only You are in control. Be with those suffering and experiencing terrible loss. Lord, Come Quickly and Redeem this world. May You be honored and glorified throughout our world. May the time come soon when every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that You Are Lord. In the Name of Jesus, I pray.
Great picture and Amen to your wonderful prayer!!
Thank you Sharon.
ooooh look at our BEAUTIFUL Patti!! I’m so glad I came back on tonight just to see your sweet pretty face! Of course, I still have my abby photo…but I’m glad you changed yours! I think it was Sharon who gave me the dog idea and now I see she’s another LOVELY face!
Patti–I LOVE (and needed) this truth from you dear friend “Help me to see in my soul that no matter how I feel, that the reality is that You are here with me”. Yes, He is with us.
Hello, beautiful Patti! Our unraveling ball of yarn life is being put together by our loving Maker. Everything is made beautiful in His time! Your life is a testament to God’s wondrous work and your surrender to Him.
10. Pray these promises or others to help you overcome whatever tempts you and brings you down.
Oh Lord, I am a sinner. Every day I need Your guidance. I am so thankful that my parents took me to church and helped me to know You. I don’t know what life would be like without You. You have guided me through the struggle of addiction, You will guide me again. Tomorrow, I begin to look at the way I eat. I want to honor You. As Dee has said, I don’t want the devil to take hold of my life. I have already found freedom in Your ways and I want more freedom from my idols. Thank You for being with me at all times! In Your Holy Name I pray. Amen.
oh Laura–I’m not sure what exactly it was but your prayer just brought instant tears (and I have been crying a lot lately!)–it’s just so humble and honest and beautiful. Your trust in Him and surrender to His ways… I felt my heart praying right along with you. Your faith just inspires me more than you could ever know.
And I would love to get to see you dance to Silent Night! You need to post it to the FB group!
Friday: Promises To Overcome Fear
FEAR NOT Verses:
“What is the price of five sparrows—two copper coins ? Yet God does not forget a single one of them.”
“And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.”
Luke 12:6 & 7 NLT
“For I hold you by your right hand— I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.”
Isaiah 41:13 NLT
“But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!””
Matthew 14:27 NLT
—As I searched for scripture pertaining to FEAR NOT these are 3 verses that stood out to me. The reason to not fear is because of God’s presence in my life. These phrases from these verses speak to that.
“ God does not forget a single one of them.”
He says:
“I am here to help you.”
“Take courage. I am here!”
These promises reinforce what God has been teaching me about the closeness of his Presence in my Mom’s life and in my own life.
11. Pray!
My heart is full with gratitude to You my precious God and Father and Savior. To know you are here! Your Word imprints on my heart the reality of You being near. You are my very breath of life. To begin to grasp the amazing truth of your indwelling Holy Spirit satisfies my soul with comfort and with joy. You are intimately aware of absolutely everything about me even the number of hairs on my head.
I will put my hope in you God! I will praise you again— my Savior and my God!
From Bev:
—As I searched for scripture pertaining to FEAR NOT these are 3 verses that stood out to me. The reason to not fear is because of God’s presence in my life. These phrases from these verses speak to that.
“ God does not forget a single one of them.”
He says:
“I am here to help you.”
“Take courage. I am here!”
These promises reinforce what God has been teaching me about the closeness of his Presence in my Mom’s life and in my own life.
Love all of this, Bev.
Bev–OH how I love having you here. Your words are always full of truth and your JOY just made me smile. All these powerful verses of truth and this-“I am here to help you!”
Thursday: Promises to Overcome Temptation
10. Pray these promises or others to help you overcome whatever tempts you and brings you down. – Lord I need you daily to help me fight the temptations that I know will not be good for me if I give in to them. Be with me and guide me away from them and help me to have a healthy mind, heart and body. Going astray in any of these areas is only opening the door to many more temptations. Help me to fill myself with you and your word so the body you gave me is the living temple you created it to be. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Friday: Promises To Overcome Fear
You probably know the most common command in the Bible is “Fear Not!” What I want you to do, using a Bible app or concordance, is to find some examples of “Fear not” that also contain a promise that is applicable to you. Many of the “Fear nots” are to individuals in special circumstances, and don’t apply — such as “Do not fear to take Mary as your wife…” but many are universal. Find some and find the promise. Then pray it into your heart for whatever you are facing. Then so the same for people you know whose circumstances are overwhelming.
11. Pray! – I just love Isaiah…Isaiah 41.10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 43.1 -3 But now, this is what the LORD says–he who created you, Julie, he who formed you, Julie: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Lord, You are such an amazing God. You have given up everything for me (us) and will never leave us. Your love is overwhelming and is never ending. You are always walking with us no matter where we go, no matter what circumstances we are facing You are there. You will be with us as we overcome it all. You will bring our enemies to their feet, and we will be lifted up in triumph. I can cry out to you any time and know that you will hear me. Bring me (us) the peace we need to be able to withstand these trying times. The victory is all yours and I’m grateful to you for that. In your mighty name I pray. Amen.
Beautiful prayer…Amen!!
And another Amen!
Amen again!
Fear not for I am with you. Do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you by My righteous right hand.
11. Pray. I praise You and thank You Father that You are that close and intimate with me that you hold my hand. Thank You that You strengthen me and help me. Thank You that You guide me surely and safely. Amen. Dear Lord I pray for Brooke and her family. Please let them sense Your leading and guiding and strengthening. Let that feel their hand in Yours and Your surrounding sense of peace. In Jesus name.
Friday: Promises To Overcome Fear
11. Pray!
“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:8-9 NLT
Lord, I thank You for Your Word and may I always keep it before me through studying it, meditating on it and obeying it. May I, as You commanded the Israelites, be strong and courageous, not be afraid or discouraged. For You the Lord my God are with me wherever I go!
I memorized these verses after I was married and they became a real comfort when my husband’s job took him out of town for two weeks at a time for many years.
Sharon,
Many years ago when I was a young married in my twenties I took Joshua 1: 8 & 9 as my life verses. They have been precious to me as well and served to encourage my heart to trust the Lord. He has certainly proved Himself to be faithful over the long haul of life and has been with me all the way.
Such great verses, Sharon. Love your prayer.
Saturday:
12. What’s your take-a-way and why?
This week I have been reminded and encouraged by the reality of the close presence of God in my life and in the lives of believers.
Verse 8 says “each day the Lord pours his unfailing love upon me,”. I take great comfort in His unfailing love.
And in speaking to his soul as a response to his being discouraged and sad the Psalmist says in verse 5 & 11
“I will put my hope in God!
I will praise Him”.
Hope has the lifting effect on my soul that brings me into praise.
There is so much in this fallen and broken world that serves to bring us discouragement but conversely there is so much more in my relationship with my God and Savior that serves to give me hope and reasons to praise Him.
12. What’s your take-a-way and why?
Speak to my soul when my soul is speaking lies to me. Memorize Psalm 42. Print and post where I can see it every day. Sing this version of Psalm 42:
Psalm 42 by CityAlight https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuvddPLM-Jc&t=32s
Wow, Bing — what a beautiful version of Psalm 42.
I love it, too, Dee!
Oops…I thought I posted this yesterday.
Friday: Promises To Overcome Fear
You probably know the most common command in the Bible is “Fear Not!” What I want you to do, using a Bible app or concordance, is to find some examples of “Fear not” that also contain a promise that applies to you. Many of the “Fear nots” are to individuals in special circumstances, and don’t apply — such as “Do not fear to take Mary as your wife…” but many are universal. Find some and find the promise. Then pray it into your heart for whatever you are facing. Then the same goes for people you know whose circumstances are overwhelming.
11. Pray!
Isaiah 43:1-2 Whenever fear strikes a deep chord in my heart, I remember this passage and cling to its promise. He has called me by name, I am His. He will always be there for me. Just typing these words puts out the fear in my heart. Instead, there is a warm glow of a Presence.
Joshua 1:8,9 When I am assigned a challenging task and do not know where to start, my confidence seems to be waning.
Lord, you know about the challenge of the upcoming spring semester. Replace my fears with God-confidence and the truth that you are always with me.
I pray these verses for my niece, Denia, in the Philippines as she waits to hear about a government-certifying assessment to work in housekeeping. She needs a job to provide for herself. May she depend on you for provision and guidance.
Dee and sisters in Christ, I hope you wouldn’t mind me sharing this as it continues to tickle me whenever I think of the verse Dee shared about the fear nots: “Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife”. This could have been the verse for Richard when he proposed to me except my name is Bing. We have had many hurdles to jump. Richard and I probably wouldn’t have been married 35 years ago were it not for his firm conviction that there was nothing to fear when God leads! The price of obedience is costly but disobedience even costs more. I will not fear what is ahead and my God is my Savior and my Lord! Do not be downcast, O my soul!
This made me smile, Bing!