I’m keeping it very simple this Thanksgiving week, but rich,with the help of Wendall Kimbrough’s paraphrase of Psalm 107. We’ll take a verse each day, pausing for Thanksgiving Day when I have a few questions you might want to use at your Thanksgiving table.
Here is Wendall Kimbrough with “Oh Give Thanks” (Psalm 107)
Sunday:
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
Monday: Thanks for the Lord’s Initial Rescue
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were wand’ring in the desert with our souls so starved and weak. We were hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek. But we lifted up our voices to the only One who hears; And the God of mercy came and brought us near.
4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks.
Tuesday: Rescuing from Sin
5. Read Psalm 107: 10-16 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were locked out of the garden, and our backs bent down with pain. In the shadow of death’s darkness, we were slaves to sin and blame. Then we cried out in our labor to the only One who hears, And the God of mercy wiped away our tears.
Chorus: Oh give thanks to the LORD for His love endures forever! We were wandering and lost, and our Father brought us home, To a safe dwelling place, to a feast of joy and laughter. Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
The Lord rescued us from the penalty of sin the moment we believed, is rescuing us from the power of sin as we mature, and will rescue us from the presence of sin when we see Him face to face. This verse is about being rescued from the power of sin, which is ongoing.
6. How has the Lord released you, for the most part, from the chains of a particular sin? Be specific and then give thanks.
Wednesday: Rescuing us From Rebellion
7. Read Psalm 107: 17-21 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were fools in our rebellion, with our hunger strike of pride. We were sick and growing closer to the death we should have died. Then he heard of our condition, and he called us by our names; And the God of glory took away our shame.
8. How do you resonate with the above?
9. In what areas do you feel you may be still rebelling? Confess and petition Him.
Thanksgiving Day Questions for You or Your Loved Ones
10. Use any that might be helpful!
What can you be thankful for this year that you could not have been thankful for last year?
What do you know now that you are thankful you know (and wished you had known when you were younger)?
The person at the head of the table will lift up each name, one by one, and allow up to 4 people to say why they are thankful for that individual.
Share one way, if possible, that the Lord has rescued you from something. Be specific.
What do you know about God that helps you in this tumultuous mixed-up world?
What are you not thankful for, yet, what do you know about God that helps you trust Him with this hard situation?
Friday:
11. For what can you give thanks concerning your Thanksgiving Day?
12. Read Psalm 107:22-31 and share what resonates with you and why.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were far out on the ocean, making wealth and chasing dreams, But the waves of great destruction brought us tremb’ling to our knees. Then we cried like drunken sailors to the only One who hears, And the God of comfort took away our fears.
13. What stands out to you from the above and why?
14. Share a time of great fear in your life from which the Lord delivered you. Give thanks.
Saturday:
15. What do you think you will remember from this psalm or this week and why?
Sunday … 1). I love Cajun style jazz so I was into this from the first line. Awesome song. What stands out …. How thankfulness and joy are contagious. And how music is a universal language that conveys it.
2. Exploratory surgery on Tues for early stage colon cancer. My Thanksgiving dinner will be mashed potatoes,squash and applesauce. Pray for pain relief and answers to extreme fatigue.
Beth, let us know how today’s surgery went for you as you have the time. May this week be a special time of sweet communion with the Lord during your and your husband’s health challenges. He is our Great Physician, Provider, and Father.
Sunday:
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
—We are looking forward to celebrating Thanksgiving with part of our children, grandchildren and some friends here in our own home. There will be lots of food, fellowship and football watching. But Dee, I am thinking we will add at least a couple of your questions into our time together. I really like what you have suggested.
I did get a call this morning from the care home where my mother lives and she tested positive for Covid but she has no symptoms whatsoever. This came as a surprise to the staff and us. They will be giving her the antiviral medication and we hope that doesn’t upset her system too much because she is feeling just fine. We don’t live in any kind of fear about it and neither does she. We pray for her continued comfort.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
—I love Kimbrough’s music and this is such a delightful presentation with excellent quality. It has such a wonderful community feel with the adding of instruments and voices so at the end all are joining in to give thanks to the Lord for He is good. It is a sweet and unique way of corporate worship. Thanks for sharing it again.
Oh, wow, Bev! I know of a friend who tested positive, too, and had no symptoms! I pray your mom will stay symptom-free and the antiviral will be effective.
Ok Just checking to see if there is some confusion or if we are going back and forth between Psalm 103 and Psalm 107. The heading this week says Psalm 103 but Kimbrough’s song is based on 107. The first question #3 for Monday says 103:1-9 but I see for the rest of the days it is 107 so I’m guessing that is where we should be this week.
Although I read all of 103 and it is very good for praising God as well. 😊
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
Our Montana daughter and her family will be here for Thanksgiving. So thankful for my daughters and their families and their loving kindness and care. Praying for safe travels for all. Praying for our son and his family to know Jesus in a very real way.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
I love Kimbrough’s video and the upbeat music. It brings me so much joy and a grateful heart every time I listen to it and watch it.
I pray you have a very sweet Thanksgiving this year, dear Patti. Your first without your dear husband. So very hard. But I can somehow see you smiling through your tears.
Thank you dear friends for your prayers. You each encourage me so much. Much love to each of you and your families and we thank our God for all His great gifts.
I’m driving to meet my eldest son and his wife in Amish country in Michigan — sort of a hard drive through Chicago and that busy freeway below Michigan. Thanks for your prayers. You are blessings to me.
I retired on the east side of Chicago so I didn’t have to deal with that traffic after 40 years of driving it. But West Michigan drivers are crazy, not to mention their bizarre left turns. I will pray for safety and good roads.
Dee–praying for safe travel for you and sweet time with your kids. I’ve always been fascinated by Amish life, I think I would love it if I could still have my treadmill 😉
Dee, I pray that you will have safe travels and a sweet time communing with the Lord as He rides with you to meet your son and his wife. May God bless your Thanksgiving.
Thank you all for your prayers! Not as good a driver as I was once, I know. I found out it is actually Essenhause in Middleberry, Indiania – near the east Michigan border. And Lizzy — what’s an Amish treadmill? 🙂
I will be praying for your safety, comfort and a blessed time with your son and his wife in Essenhause in Middlebury. It sounds wonderful. Praying that you encounter good and polite drivers and that your travel weather is good.
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you? I take hubby to wound clinic for leg ulcers and poor circulation issues. His health is definitely improving (he was hospitalized in October and in November). I’m floundering in feeling close and connected to God. ( I know the church sign indicates it’s me who’s moved.) I had unsuccessful procedure last week to remove kidney stone so they left me with a stent(and a desire to yank it out). They will remove both in December. At times I feel overwhelmed with new responsibilities for my better half and then of course feel guilty. God did remind me a few times last week there is purpose in His plan. I need more gratitude. Isn’t psalm 107 appropriate? Thank you, Dee. Give thanks to the Lord for He is good and His love endures forever. I believe that.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why. I love the music and arrangement. One man comes to where people are at and by praising God they all join in with what are hearts truly long for.
Oh, so much is piling on top of you at one time. Underneath it all are still those everlasting arms. Praying you sense His presence and that you can get that nephrostomy tube out soon!
Judy, I pray our Heavenly Father will give you the needed strength for your situation with your own physical needs and healing for both you and your husband’s needs. Don’t let the enemy put any guilt on you. You are vulnerable in your own physical need and tired I’m sure. God understands.
Praying for you, Judy, as you care for your husband, while you are going through so much yourself. It is hard to be a caretaker, but our Father is able. I pray that you sense His presence and that He draws you close to His heart. I pray for healing for both of you. I am praying Isaiah 43: 1-2 for you right now.
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
My husband and 2 boys and I are leaving to go to the beach for a few days. Thanksgiving can be hard emotionally without any extended family, and my daughter we lost contact with turns 20 on Saturday, so it helps to get away. We started a tradition last year of making blankets for foster kids, so we’ll do that and other crafty things, thankful my 17-year-old son is still willing! Would love prayers for the time, and I’ve also had some new health trials I’d appreciate prayers for…and I’ve also been having regular nightmares about all my family discord, I know that’s not helping my health, so I humbly ask for more prayer.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
I related to this–“hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek… our backs bent down with pain”. There has been a lot of pain this last year and seeking healing, learning to trust while it is still dark.
And this lamenting, his answer, His mercy– “then we cried out in our labor to the only One who hears, and the God of mercy wiped away our tears.”
I love this, I long for this, I hope to taste some of this on this side—”and our Father brought us home, to a safe dwelling place, to a feast of joy and laughter.”
Prayers for restful peace filled sleep tonight and every night, that God give wisdom and direct your path for healing, and that your Thanksgiving is a blessing for you and your family. May God bring restoration to your family
Oh sweet Lizzy, Just asking our precious Heavenly Father to comfort your heart with his love and presence. I pray He will refresh you in your time away.
Oh, dear Lizzy. I am praying for you to be at peace. Family discord is the most painful thing. I am especially praying that the Lord will hold you in His mighty hand and give you His peace. How I pray that He will replace the nightmares with peace filled hours of sleep. I am praying that He will absorb your stress and fill your Thanksgiving at the beach with a time of great joy and peace with your family. You all are such a blessing to others in your beautiful tradition of making blankets for foster kids.
Lizzy, I am so sad to hear of all the troubles in your life. I do understand. I try to hold the same family Thanksgiving dinner each year, though my family is quite broken. I actually am pretty sad this Thanksgiving, realizing my family will never be like some other families (who actually like each other 😉). We struggle. I like your idea of the beach. It sounds peaceful. I will pray for healing for you and your relationships. Have a sweet day making the blankets!
I would really appreciate prayer as I interact with my neighbor following the totally unexpected suicide of her husband. He was only 34 years old and left a wife and two young children. It all just seems so senseless and just full of unimaginable pain. I came home from work early without knowing that minutes after I arrived home my next door neighbor would out a gun to his head. I ran outdoors when I heard his wife scream. I’ve never seen such a horrific scene. I was tasked to clean it up so the children would not ever see. Oh God!!! My heart and my flesh cry out to the living God??!! Where are you in such pain and confusion and devastation??!! I cannot bear to write the details. My children and I have been running over there now for days, trying to help, trying to pick up the pieces of shattered lives. But I am totally helpless on my own and need Divine intervention. I pray mostly for them to see the love of Jesus even through all of this horror. Thank you, dear friends.
Oh Missy! I can’t comprehend what you have had to deal with regarding your neighbors. We have a cruel enemy sowing lies in the hearts of people who become hopeless and so many of them are taking their own lives.
May God intervene for you and make his presence known in such horrific circumstances and for Jesus to make himself known to this family.
Oh, dear Missy! How terrible for all of you! I pray for strength and wisdom for you, as you help your dear neighbors. I pray that the Lord will take these horrible images from your mind and give you all His peace. May this family see Jesus in you and all you are doing to help them. Lord be very present with Missy and her neighbors, we pray.
Oh, Missy! How terrible and sad news! And for you to do the clean-up. I cannot imagine what that would be like. O God, who knows and sees. Be with this family as they go through this devastation. Intervene as only you can and be with Missy as she ministers to the wife and the children. We look to you to work out everything for good.
Dear Lord, You know our pain. Thank You for Missy! Thank You that she is present for these people who obviously need someone immediately. It was Your faithful servant who came to their rescue. I pray the family does learn who You are through this awful event. Please wipe the details from Missy’s mind, so she can sleep well. Lord, our world is failing now. We need You in our lives. We love You Lord.
Sunday: 1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you? – We are in Tennessee now and have no family’ here or coming to visit. But today we were invited to Thanksgiving dinner at a couple’s house who are also newer to Tennessee. Prayers for connection between us and that God provides the conversation since we really don’t know them very well. 2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why. – What first stood out to me was when he started singing no one stopped talking and I thought how rude. But through the song, which I have never heard before, people were staring to join and become a part of the song. Loved how everyone participated in some way at the end.
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you? We’re having an extended family Thanksgiving dinner with both sides of the family, one of my son’s in laws, my brother’s mother in law and a friend from church. Lots of people invited (my sons, their spouses and children alone are 22). We’re hosting it in our church basement (that has a kitchen). I’m making 3 turkeys. Prayers that it isn’t unenjoyable chaos. 2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why. It’s a catchy summary of Psalm 107.
Wow Dawn, That’s a lot of people and a lot of turkey 😊 and because through the years our Thanksgiving gatherings have been very large. I understand the planning and work involved. May God strengthen and bless you.
You are amazing, Dawn! Praying for joy, delight and lots of fun and conversation with your big family and extended family! You are giving them a great gift by being such an amazing hostess! Three turkeys! Wow!! May any chaos, be pure joy!!
Prayers this a memorable love filled Thanksgiving. That everyone stays healthy and appreciates all that’s being done for a blessed Thanksgiving. Lord prevent any mishaps or misunderstandings.
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
I have not felt very well this last week. Cold/allergies, as well as some extreme pain in my (dancing) feet. Not sure what that is all about 🤷🏻♀️.
This year I decided to ask my family to participate in cooking Thanksgiving dinner. It’s hard to let go, but necessary! My mom was the ultimate cook. Even on a regular Tuesday night she would have a 5 course meal! I remember dad walking in from work and saying, “Margaret, I want a Boston Crème pie for dessert!” She would whip one out! Before boxes, and she worked as a psychologist full time! Amazing….sigh. I am not that person!
So, this year, instead of cooking myself, all day long, I have decided to involve others. Each person is getting g something to cook, and my SIL has agreed to wash the fine China 😉.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
oh how I love this video! I remember you used it before I love the jazzy rhythm and how the band joins together. The music so fits the actual Psalm! It’s so hopeful for me on this early Monday morning.
Laura, Sorry to hear you are struggling with some physical issues. Praying God will bring you needed relief and that you can enjoy the day.
Fine China takes me back to having Thanksgiving every year at my in-laws and she set multiple tables with her china and brought out all the extra dishes. But it sounds like you are delegating things well. Praying our Heavenly Father blesses you day with a thankful heart and the blessing if his presence.
Laura, I pray that you are feeling much better soon! You are so wise to get others to help with the dinner! I pray that it is a wonderful day of joy! May God bless your time together as family. That is such a gift.
Oh Laura, that is a to put on yourself. My Ladies Mentoring Group is reading through the book Adorned and we just read how each person and their circumstances are different and that the Proverbs 31 Woman will not be the same for us. Don’t think you are any less than your Mom who sounds wonderful by the way. Just be YOU and who God made you to be. Hugs my friend.
Dear Lord Let the day be filled with loving fellowship that will linger with good memories. Let everyone leave knowing they were well fed and well loved.
Monday: Thanks for the Lord’s Initial Rescue
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life.
—Verses 1 and 8 speak of the “steadfast love of the LORD”. when I see the word steadfast I always think of rock solid as the meaning. God’s love is as sure and unmovable as solid rock and it lasts forever. I take comfort and find great security in the solidity and depth of God’s love for me.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were wand’ring in the desert with our souls so starved and weak.
We were hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek.
But we lifted up our voices to the only One who hears;
And the God of mercy came and brought us near.
4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks.
—The turning point comes in verse 6. “Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.”
To be specific, hmmm? It is so often I cry out to God with my needs. Some are very small and personal but He often reminds me of his nearness and that truly calms my troubled heart time and time again. And I think it is most often through his Word. Scripture speaks so clearly and is so important to bringing balance back into my life. That’s one of the reasons I participate here. 😊
Bev, I love: “God’s love is as sure and unmovable as solid rock and it lasts forever!” Amen! And I agree, being here brings balance to my life too! Thanksgiving blessings to you and your family.
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life.
He is good. His lovingkindness is everlasting. God is unchanging. He has redeemed me from the hand of the adversary. My soul was faint and cried out to Him. He delivered me. When my soul and heart have wandered, He has forgiven me and shown me the way to true satisfaction in this life. He is consistent, while I am on an emotional roller coaster. He draws me back into His hand; I have only to look to Him, Praise Him, Thank Him and I once again know that His way is the way to satisfy what my soul craves and needs. And He is good. “Is He-quite safe? ” “Safe? Who said anything about safe?” “‘Course He isn’t safe, but He is good.”~ C.S. Lewis
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase: We were wand’ring in the desert with our souls so starved and weak.We were hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek.But we lifted up our voices to the only One who hears;And the God of mercy came and brought us near. 4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks.
When I think that only things of this earth can satisfy, (lost in the desert) it does not take long for me to realize that such a thought is all about “self”. After losing my husband, I don’t even know where I fit, or if I fit, or where to find the only person I have been with since I was 20 years old. There is nothing of this earth that can help that. It is like walking through a desert without a path or a map. Yet, when I get done with a spree of sobbing my heart out, I pray a Psalm and I pray for others going through a similar loss, or any loss, and I sense that He is listening and He is near to all the broken hearted. He is the path and the map…He shows me the way. Praising gives me compassion for others who are broken hearted; there is nothing like the experience to help you really see the pain of others. The more I Praise Him, the more I see Him. So many things scare me about my future, but then I remember that He holds that future and I want it to be about Him. How I pray that all I do will point others to Him. He satisfies my soul. “And the God of mercy came and brought us near.”
Oh I love this…“Is He-quite safe? ” “Safe? Who said anything about safe?” “‘Course He isn’t safe, but He is good.”~ C.S. Lewis where is this quote from?
Awwww, Patti. Your description of how you feel is actually quite sweet. You lost your soulmate. It must be difficult. God is in charge. He will always be your guide. Love and hugs!
“The more I Praise Him, the more I see Him.”
So appreciate you sharing your heart as you journey through this very hard time in your life.
Continuing in prayer for you. 💕
Monday: Thanks for the Lord’s Initial Rescue 3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life. – God is always ready to provide for us and help us. He waits for our cries to come out. He is such a loving God that if we would see his goodness and not wander away, he is ready to be our help in our times of need. There are so many times I can recount where he was right there as soon as I cried out, but I had to make the move. He is willing and able, but we need to ready for His help. Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase: We were wand’ring in the desert with our souls so starved and weak.We were hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek.But we lifted up our voices to the only One who hears;And the God of mercy came and brought us near. 4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks. – Growing up as catholic I knew there was a God and I did all that was needed as a catholic in good standing, but that was where it ended. I didn’t dig into His Word or stretch myself to learn more about him. It was more of a check the box relationship. But he didn’t give up on me. He put people in my life that were strong in their faith and had a hunger for a close relationship with Jesus. They didn’t put, but they were consistent in how they talked, lived and worked. I saw through them the goodness of God and wanted what they had. Because of them and their faith in Christ, I became a true believer, not just a check the box Christian, and a Christian that what so much of what God was willing to give. Thank you, Lord, for not giving up on me and for seeing what I had inside even though I didn’t know it was in there. Thank you for placing just the right people in my life at the time I was ready to see and hear. Amen
Julie, Thank you for sharing your testimony. I love how God knows how to reach our hearts… love this: “Thank you for placing just the right people in my life at the time I was ready to see and hear. Amen”
Lord the cries are coming out and I know you hear them. Be with each and every sister and friend here on this blog. We all need you and think at times we aren’t worthy to have you. Bring us peace, comfort and strength to get through this holiday season. Help us to make it simple but yet memorable. Help us all to not be stressed during this season and to remember it’s about YOU! Provide traveling mercies to everyone and keep us all safe. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Thank you so much for this beautiful prayer and important reminder.
“Help us to make it simple but yet memorable. Help us all to not be stressed during this season and to remember it’s about YOU!”
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life. Those He redeemed from the hand of the foe. He has redeemed me from the enemy. He could have left me doing my own thing, pretty much ignoring me as I ignored Him. Instead He kept calling me to fill my emptiness with Himself. What blessing I receive.
4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks. I was foolish and wandered and for long time didnt know to seek Him Enough problems and unhappiness and ill family member brought me to my knees. He then directed my steps to a church that was going to be openly seeking to love Jesus. I thank You Lord. In Your great Grace and love brought my heart and mind to turn to You. You then positioned me to be discipled and to grow in love with You. You are patient with me and forgive me. Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere.
Sunday:
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
My husband’s two sisters, their husbands, and an elderly widow friend of one of his sisters will join us for Thanksgiving Day. Ruth and her dog, Sam, will be with us as well. This is one of the very few times we get together every year and I am praying for this year to be a significant and good relaxing time. There are some business items that the siblings have been talking about for the last few months. I will not be surprised if that comes up. I have some board games I will lay out for us to play. Richard and his siblings are musically gifted so I thought it would be fun if we could sing some hymns or praise songs. The absence of my parents-in-law brings a tinge of sorrow to the occasion still. They were very much loved!
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
I thought it was a very creative rendition of Psalm 107. The 43 verses in the original Psalm 107 seem to chronicle the many ills of humanity but one thing for sure is that God is immutable-his good loving kindness never ceases.
I love the chorus: Oh, give thanks to the LORD for His love endures forever!
We were wandering and lost, and our Father brought us home,
To a safe dwelling place, to a feast of joy and laughter.
Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
It does seem like your relationship with Ruth is so much better. Good to welcome her dog. We now have 2 dogs in church — one has attachment disorder the other helps the woman with her anxiety!
Dee, thank you for mentioning Ruth. She and I have had really good times together lately. Her critters have helped much with our interactions and they are very precious to her and to me.
Thanks, Patti! The sons and their families are off to their wives’ side of the family or we would have more than double our numbers. I am excited to see how the day will pan out with just the siblings and their spouses together. and I am praying for this widow-friend of my sister-in-law to be blessed with our company. Aahh…it is good to give thanks unto the lord; His love endures forever!
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life.
I think what mostly resonates with me is the redeemed part. I feel like He has done just that with me in the last few months! I asked Him to save me and He has. Thank You Lord, Jesus! Hallelujah!
4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks.
When I was between the ages of about 17 and 26, I was not following the Lord. I was a lost soul. I met my husband and got married, and we had our first child. John was about 14 months old when a light bulb went off in my head. It said, “I am missing something with this baby. I’m supposed to be doing something I’m not doing. Church. That’s it! I’m supposed to take my child to church!” I had grown up in a church going (every week) family, and knew that was the right thing to do. We began going to church and have not stopped since. It’s been 33 years!
I love the story of how your first child, John, caused the light bulb to go off! It is so good to look back and see how the Lord was right there prompting your heart, Laura! Thankful for Redemption too!!
Tuesday: Rescuing from Sin
5. Read Psalm 107: 10-16 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
—“Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!” Psalm 107:15 ESV
This stands out to me and speaks to the wonderful work of Salvation that God has provided out of his deep and steadfast love for the children of man who were slaves to sin and shame through his only Son Jesus.
6. How has the Lord released you, for the most part, from the chains of a particular sin? Be specific and then give thanks.
—Over the years I have sinned far too often in my heart towards others having a lack of love and feeling resentment for what people have said or done to me. Even feeling hateful toward them. But slowly over the years Gods has patiently given me a heart of love for some very unlovable individuals. Unlovable to me but not to Him and that has been the important thing for me to understand much more fully the love of God. As I have recognized and experienced the depth and rock solid love of God as my Father for me I have come to appreciate how his love is the very same to all of mankind. And I have come to understand His requirement of me to have a heart of compassion and to love others as He has loved me.
Oh give thanks to the LORD for His love endures forever!
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
Monday: Thanks for the Lord’s Initial Rescue
1. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life.
There was a time in my life when I felt like a wandering nomad. Due to Richard’s health challenges, we decided to leave the Philippines and settle in the U.S. While waiting on the Lord for guidance, we stayed with my in-laws who were as generous as they have always been. I was away from my mom and siblings and the homesickness was overwhelming. Ruth was just 2 years old then. The future looked bleak. Where are you sending us, Lord? v. 6 resonated with me “I cried out to the Lord…”
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase: We were wand’ring in the desert with our souls so starved and weak.We were hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek.But we lifted up our voices to the only One who hears;And the God of mercy came and brought us near.
2. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks.
The above narrative happened a while back, but I clearly remember hungering for a place of safety, security, and refuge. A place of peace no matter where it was. I knew He heard my cry when He brought a friend who drove hundreds of miles to see us and pray with and for us. That is when I realized that the place I was looking for was a person and He has always been there for me. I was just so focused on my grief and pain, that I couldn’t see Him. Jesus!
5. Read Psalm 107: 10-16 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life. He brought them out of darkness. Utter darkness and broke away their chains. I was living in darkness because I wasn’t a Christian. This led to being trapped in unhealthy destructive thought patterns. So when I became a Christian and longed for light in my life, He showed me where to seek freedom. 6. How has the Lord released you, for the most part, from the chains of a particular sin? Be specific and then give thanks. The Lord has released me from depression which manifested in lack of gratitude for the many blessings I have. Thank You Lord for setting me free. You could have left me forever thinking the next thing would make me happy. Instead you chose to show me my real need was a relationship with You and seeking to follow Your path.
Tuesday: Rescuing from Sin
1. Read Psalm 107: 10-16 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
Growing up in a Christian home was a blessing in so many ways but I resented the constraints I felt were imposed on me. No listening to some particular music, no painting of my nails, no boyfriends until I am ready to marry, etc. I felt suffocated by the religion I was supposed to love. I was a dutiful, religious person outside, but I was rebelling against the Lord inside. Later I was confronted with my sin of pride and idolatry and blaming others by people who love me. He brought me to a place of surrender. Only by the mercies of God that He did not leave me where I was.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase: We were locked out of the garden, and our backs bent down with pain.In the shadow of death’s darkness, we were slaves to sin and blame.Then we cried out in our labor to the only One who hears,And the God of mercy wiped away our tears. Chorus:Oh give thanks to the LORD for His love endures forever!We were wandering and lost, and our Father brought us home,To a safe dwelling place, to a feast of joy and laughter.Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
The Lord rescued us from the penalty of sin the moment we believed, is rescuing us from the power of sin as we mature, and will rescue us from the presence of sin when we see Him face to face. This verse is about being rescued from the power of sin, which is ongoing.
2. How has the Lord released you, for the most part, from the chains of a particular sin? Be specific and then give thanks.
I have shared it here before, but I had a lot of idols, the most prominent of which is the idol of approval. I was faced with it again this weekend when I was at a wreath workshop that 2 of my friends conducted. It was lovely but I felt something was missing inside of me. When I got home later, I realized that I was seeking my friends’ approval so I had a hard time enjoying myself at the event. I was more concerned about how I was performing at a skill that I knew I did not have a natural talent for than just being thankful for the opportunity to be with my friends! Ugh!
To some degree, being able to recognize this in me is God’s way of releasing me from its power. I prayed to God that night until I had His peace that He loves me anyway and could always rely on His power to save me from such an idol.
5. Read Psalm 107: 10-16 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
The prison of darkness is a scary thought. And then, God leads us out.
Although I wasn’t really in darkness, in my own mind, God spoke to me on the birthing table with this same child (John), whom we took to church. There is a certain time in your giving birth, when you realize it’s only you and God who are able to get the baby out! No one else can do it for you. That is, unless you are having a C-section! But even still, you know that alone feeling. I said to God, “It’s just You and me now, Lord.” I hadn’t been involved with church at all, for 10 years, at that point. Somehow I knew that God was with me and I needed Him right then. Thank You Lord, for always being faithful.
6. How has the Lord released you, for the most part, from the chains of a particular sin? Be specific and then give thanks.
The Lord has taken away any desire for the sin. I no longer think of it, crave it, or even realize it is there. It is no longer a part of my life. Oh my gosh, He is so good! I asked Him to take it away fully, and He did! God loves me. We are connected. He cares for me. Thank You Lord! You are so consistent in Your protection and Your blessings. Amen.
Laura, I love what you expressed here.
“The Lord has taken away any desire for the sin. I no longer think of it, crave it, or even realize it is there. It is no longer a part of my life. Oh my gosh, He is so good!”
Wednesday: Rescuing us From Rebellion
7. Read Psalm 107: 17-21 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were fools in our rebellion, with our hunger strike of pride.
We were sick and growing closer to the death we should have died.
Then he heard of our condition, and he called us by our names;
And the God of glory took away our shame.
—The scripture as it was written was hard for me to relate to. But Kimbrough’s paraphrase gives it better meaning for me. For me it speaks to man’s prideful sinful condition before being saved but in calling out to Him He responded and redeemed us. I like the phrase
“Then he heard of our condition, and he called us by our names;
And the God of glory took away our shame.”
That is what resonates with me in answer to question #8
8. How do you resonate with the above?
9. In what areas do you feel you may be still rebelling? Confess and petition Him.
—In my heart I want what God wants for me. But there is always a struggle against the flesh to not give in to fleshy desires. I need to think on this question because the word rebellion sounds and feels very intentional to me. Often I feel tripped up and tempted to be drawn away from the Lord but to just intentionally rebel and turn away from God and his ways for my life is a fearful thing to me. I always want to be getting closer to Him. I know I am not without sin because of my old nature but now that I understand the Cross and the power of it my prayer is that God would forbid I live in any kind of rebellion. I hope this doesn’t come across as self righteous because I truly want to live in dependent intimacy with my God and my Lord and not any kind of rebellion.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I pray you all have a happy, peaceful day today. 🦃🦃🦃
7. Read Psalm 107: 17-21 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
The NLT reads:
“Some were fools; they rebelled and suffered for their sins. They couldn’t stand the thought of food, and they were knocking on death’s door. “Lord, help!” they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them, snatching them from the door of death. Let them praise the Lord for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them.”
Psalms 107:17-21 NLT
I do believe the Lord has “snatched” me from deaths door. He has made me see how I was killing myself, slowly. He has taken away the sin and given me a clear head. Thank You Lord!
8. How do you resonate with the above?
I absolutely love the paraphrase from the band. The tune is so catchy and the words are modern and “known” to our times. The part I really like is “…He called us by our names…” It’s so personal.
9. In what areas do you feel you may be still rebelling? Confess and petition Him.
I do have more work to be done on myself. I am going to have to focus on the food thing soon. I figured I would start with my worst vice and move on from there! Dec. 1 is my timeframe for food exorcism 😉. I do have another particular issue that I need to address, but it involves my husband and I’m not sure exactly how to tackle it. Lord, thank You for the Holy Spirit helping me to understand the problem here. Help me to know the next steps, so I do not falter. Amen.
I am so grateful for all of you…for your godly and encouraging input. Please know that I have kept all of your prayer requests before our great and caring God. May y’all have blessed and wonderful day!
”Although we may not always be healthy or prosperous, yet God is always good, and therefore, there is always a sufficient argument for giving thanks.”
Happy Thanksgiving Week to all! Thank you for the quote, Sharon. It resonated well with me as our Thanksgiving Day did not turn out as we humans planned it. My sister-in-law’s son and wife tested positive the day they were to leave for her side of the family’s get-together. The widow friend of my other sister-in-law couldn’t join us as she fell and had a huge hematoma from it. And…Ruth fell at work 2 days before she was going to join us. She sprained her left ankle and is in a boot. She wasn’t able to join us, either.
But God provided a very relaxing time for us who were there. The food was delicious and conversations flew freely. We also had a good time visiting with my husband’s nephew and fiancee. “…there is always a sufficient argument for giving thanks.”~ Charles Spurgeon
Richard and I drove to KC to be with our daughter, Ruth, the next day. It made for a long day but thankful for the opportunity to serve our daughter during her time of need. She was thankful for our help and we were thankful to see her better and coping with her limitations.
Friday:
11. For what can you give thanks concerning your Thanksgiving Day?
—My husband asked our son to share some thoughts and scripture before we ate our meal. He noted that in the bible there are many feasts and God has instituted many of them but he said his favorite is at the return of the Prodigal son the Father throws a big party of feasting to celebrate the return of his son. We enjoyed a day of feasting and just being together as family with two of our children, their families some close friends. There was a good spirit among us and thankful hearts which makes mine very thankful.
12. Read Psalm 107:22-31 and share what resonates with you and why.
— verses 22 and 31 stand out to me that when my response to God is one of thanksgiving and praise my focus changes and my spirit is uplifted when I do them. It resonates with me because in this dark and troubling there is much to discourage and drag us away from the truth of just how wonderful our God snd Father is.
“Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and sing joyfully about his glorious acts.”
“Let them praise the Lord for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them.”
Psalms 107:22, 31 NLT
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were far out on the ocean, making wealth and chasing dreams,
But the waves of great destruction brought us tremb’ling to our knees.
Then we cried like drunken sailors to the only One who hears,
And the God of comfort took away our fears.
13. What stands out to you from the above and why?
—“And the God of comfort took away our fears.” Again it is the wonderful beauty of our God to take away our fears. Another wonderful work he will do in our lives if we call on Him and trust in Him.
14. Share a time of great fear in your life from which the Lord delivered you. Give thanks.
—As I reflect on past fears or times of being fearful there was a time when I was first married I feared losing my husband. It was an unfounded fear and came out of my deep insecurities. But over time as I grew in the Lord I began to see and understand I had an unhealthy dependence on my husband and I realize now he was my idol. As I replaced that fear with a deeper trust in God to put Him first in my life that fear diminished and went away.
11. For what can you give thanks concerning your Thanksgiving Day?
I had a very restful day! Thank You Lord! The kids and I even took a walk because the weather was so beautiful 🦃♥️🙏.
12. Read Psalm 107:22-31 and share what resonates with you and why.
I think the part where they praise the Lord for the stillness as a blessing after the storm. I can feel that stillness in my bones sometimes. So sweet.
Saturday:
15. What do you think you will remember from this psalm or this week and why?
Oh give thanks to the LORD for His love endures forever!
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
—These words from Wendell Kimbrough’s song taken from the first verse of Psalm 107 have continued to resonate in song in my mind this week. It has been an encouraging week of remembrance and thanksgiving. Psalm 107 served to truly help me have a mindset of thanksgiving at a deeper level than just things and comfort. Through out this Psalm there are verses that speak to God’s love. From the opening verse to the last verse and repeated 3 times in between the reminder is there and the point made of God’s enduring steadfast love for us. I realize more and more how much God’s enduring love carries me through life.
13. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I like the last line 😉. “…And the God of comfort took away our fears.”
I like to tell those who are afraid, if they believe in God, that the things they’re afraid of are more afraid of Him. I tell the grands this, and even my own daughter who thinks our house is haunted! I think I should share the demons scripture with her 🤔.
14. Share a time of great fear in your life from which the Lord delivered you. Give thanks.
I can’t think of an individual time off the top of my head, but I do get scared every time I fly. Every single time, as we lift off, I pray for God to keep us safe. Every time, He gives me peace! It’s a sweet thing. Thank You Jesus! ♥️🙏
Saturday:
15. What do you think you will remember from this psalm or this week and why?
We can be in very dire conditions caused by our own doings and yet God is always there to listen to our cries for help.
These phrases: to the only One who hears, the God of mercy (He brought us near), our Father (brought us home), the God of glory (took away our shame), the God of comfort (took away our fears)
I see a thread of the story of the prodigal son in this song rendition of Psalm 107. Oh, what love God has for us!
And I am excited to hear my husband’s message for church tomorrow based on Psalm 107.
15. What do you think you will remember from this psalm or this week and why? His love endures forever. I’ve been thinking the last few days of a concept you, Dee, had in a Bible study. Perichoresis. The continuity of love and the dance that goes on between and because of the Trinity. Why? because I need to appreciate and be thankful for that kind of generous costly unselfish love.
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Sunday … 1). I love Cajun style jazz so I was into this from the first line. Awesome song. What stands out …. How thankfulness and joy are contagious. And how music is a universal language that conveys it.
2. Exploratory surgery on Tues for early stage colon cancer. My Thanksgiving dinner will be mashed potatoes,squash and applesauce. Pray for pain relief and answers to extreme fatigue.
I will be praying for your surgery on Tuesday, Beth. Praying for wellness and good prognosis.
Beth, me, too. I will be praying for you for the exploratory surgery on Tuesday. And for your pain and fatigue.
I too will pray for the surgery, pain relief, and answers!
Prayers for successful surgery, pain easily managed and no further treatment needed.
Beth-praying for your surgery and His protection over your health.
Beth, prayers for you and your medical team and for wisdom for the doctors to know just how to treat you.
Praying for you, Beth.
Praying, Beth. Such a hard Thanksgiving for you. Hope you get answers and relief soon.
Beth, I pray you will experience the Father’s love and close presence of Jesus in your time of physical need and a good recovery.
Beth, let us know how today’s surgery went for you as you have the time. May this week be a special time of sweet communion with the Lord during your and your husband’s health challenges. He is our Great Physician, Provider, and Father.
Sunday:
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
—We are looking forward to celebrating Thanksgiving with part of our children, grandchildren and some friends here in our own home. There will be lots of food, fellowship and football watching. But Dee, I am thinking we will add at least a couple of your questions into our time together. I really like what you have suggested.
I did get a call this morning from the care home where my mother lives and she tested positive for Covid but she has no symptoms whatsoever. This came as a surprise to the staff and us. They will be giving her the antiviral medication and we hope that doesn’t upset her system too much because she is feeling just fine. We don’t live in any kind of fear about it and neither does she. We pray for her continued comfort.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
—I love Kimbrough’s music and this is such a delightful presentation with excellent quality. It has such a wonderful community feel with the adding of instruments and voices so at the end all are joining in to give thanks to the Lord for He is good. It is a sweet and unique way of corporate worship. Thanks for sharing it again.
Thanks Bev — will pray your mom stays symptom free!
Praying for your mom to be symptom free, Bev.
Oh, wow, Bev! I know of a friend who tested positive, too, and had no symptoms! I pray your mom will stay symptom-free and the antiviral will be effective.
Bev-sounds like a big fun family get together! Praying for your mom’s health & God’s protection over her.
May God bless your holiday with good times. May your mom stay symptom free.
Will be praying for your mom Bev.
Ok Just checking to see if there is some confusion or if we are going back and forth between Psalm 103 and Psalm 107. The heading this week says Psalm 103 but Kimbrough’s song is based on 107. The first question #3 for Monday says 103:1-9 but I see for the rest of the days it is 107 so I’m guessing that is where we should be this week.
Although I read all of 103 and it is very good for praising God as well. 😊
Definitely some confusion. You are so diplomatic. Don’t know where my head was. It’s Psalm 107! Fixed, I think!
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
Our Montana daughter and her family will be here for Thanksgiving. So thankful for my daughters and their families and their loving kindness and care. Praying for safe travels for all. Praying for our son and his family to know Jesus in a very real way.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
I love Kimbrough’s video and the upbeat music. It brings me so much joy and a grateful heart every time I listen to it and watch it.
Yes, Patti. Prayers for your time with your daughters and for your son and his family.
Oh Patti — so love your girls. Praying for your son.
dear Patti–so thankful your daughter & her family are coming, prayers for a time of joy
Prayers for safe travel and your son and family grow close to Jesus. May God bless you with fun, closeness, fellowship and health for all
I pray you have a very sweet Thanksgiving this year, dear Patti. Your first without your dear husband. So very hard. But I can somehow see you smiling through your tears.
Patti, Asking God to bless your Thanksgiving with his love and presence.
Thank you dear friends for your prayers. You each encourage me so much. Much love to each of you and your families and we thank our God for all His great gifts.
I’m driving to meet my eldest son and his wife in Amish country in Michigan — sort of a hard drive through Chicago and that busy freeway below Michigan. Thanks for your prayers. You are blessings to me.
I retired on the east side of Chicago so I didn’t have to deal with that traffic after 40 years of driving it. But West Michigan drivers are crazy, not to mention their bizarre left turns. I will pray for safety and good roads.
Dee–praying for safe travel for you and sweet time with your kids. I’ve always been fascinated by Amish life, I think I would love it if I could still have my treadmill 😉
Prayers for safe travel, courteous drivers and a blessed holiday
The Amish are all over Michigan. What area are you going to be in? I’ll be praying for your safe travels.
Safe travels and Happy Thanksgiving, dear Dee!
Dee, I pray that you will have safe travels and a sweet time communing with the Lord as He rides with you to meet your son and his wife. May God bless your Thanksgiving.
Thank you all for your prayers! Not as good a driver as I was once, I know. I found out it is actually Essenhause in Middleberry, Indiania – near the east Michigan border. And Lizzy — what’s an Amish treadmill? 🙂
I will be praying for your safety, comfort and a blessed time with your son and his wife in Essenhause in Middlebury. It sounds wonderful. Praying that you encounter good and polite drivers and that your travel weather is good.
Dee, praying for you, indeed! I about fell out of my chair upon reading your question to Lizzy: What’s an Amish treadmill?
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you? I take hubby to wound clinic for leg ulcers and poor circulation issues. His health is definitely improving (he was hospitalized in October and in November). I’m floundering in feeling close and connected to God. ( I know the church sign indicates it’s me who’s moved.) I had unsuccessful procedure last week to remove kidney stone so they left me with a stent(and a desire to yank it out). They will remove both in December. At times I feel overwhelmed with new responsibilities for my better half and then of course feel guilty. God did remind me a few times last week there is purpose in His plan. I need more gratitude. Isn’t psalm 107 appropriate? Thank you, Dee. Give thanks to the Lord for He is good and His love endures forever. I believe that.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why. I love the music and arrangement. One man comes to where people are at and by praising God they all join in with what are hearts truly long for.
Judy–praying for you and your husband, for strength and His covering you with peace.
Oh, so much is piling on top of you at one time. Underneath it all are still those everlasting arms. Praying you sense His presence and that you can get that nephrostomy tube out soon!
Judy, I pray our Heavenly Father will give you the needed strength for your situation with your own physical needs and healing for both you and your husband’s needs. Don’t let the enemy put any guilt on you. You are vulnerable in your own physical need and tired I’m sure. God understands.
Oh so sorry about the unsuccessful procedure to remove kidney stone! Lord, please have mercy.
Praying for you, Judy, as you care for your husband, while you are going through so much yourself. It is hard to be a caretaker, but our Father is able. I pray that you sense His presence and that He draws you close to His heart. I pray for healing for both of you. I am praying Isaiah 43: 1-2 for you right now.
Thank you, kind ladies. You are a blessing to me.
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
My husband and 2 boys and I are leaving to go to the beach for a few days. Thanksgiving can be hard emotionally without any extended family, and my daughter we lost contact with turns 20 on Saturday, so it helps to get away. We started a tradition last year of making blankets for foster kids, so we’ll do that and other crafty things, thankful my 17-year-old son is still willing! Would love prayers for the time, and I’ve also had some new health trials I’d appreciate prayers for…and I’ve also been having regular nightmares about all my family discord, I know that’s not helping my health, so I humbly ask for more prayer.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
I related to this–“hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek… our backs bent down with pain”. There has been a lot of pain this last year and seeking healing, learning to trust while it is still dark.
And this lamenting, his answer, His mercy– “then we cried out in our labor to the only One who hears, and the God of mercy wiped away our tears.”
I love this, I long for this, I hope to taste some of this on this side—”and our Father brought us home, to a safe dwelling place, to a feast of joy and laughter.”
Prayers for restful peace filled sleep tonight and every night, that God give wisdom and direct your path for healing, and that your Thanksgiving is a blessing for you and your family. May God bring restoration to your family
Judy- just saw this as I’m heading to bed and it made me tear up, thank you for your prayers and compassion.
God be near and dear to you, dear Lizzie, and cover you with His cozy warm wings.
Oh sweet Lizzy, Just asking our precious Heavenly Father to comfort your heart with his love and presence. I pray He will refresh you in your time away.
That song fits you, Lizzy. How I pray for a sweet time together at the beach. And for your new health issues and for those bad dreams to be gone!
Oh, dear Lizzy. I am praying for you to be at peace. Family discord is the most painful thing. I am especially praying that the Lord will hold you in His mighty hand and give you His peace. How I pray that He will replace the nightmares with peace filled hours of sleep. I am praying that He will absorb your stress and fill your Thanksgiving at the beach with a time of great joy and peace with your family. You all are such a blessing to others in your beautiful tradition of making blankets for foster kids.
Lizzy, I am so sad to hear of all the troubles in your life. I do understand. I try to hold the same family Thanksgiving dinner each year, though my family is quite broken. I actually am pretty sad this Thanksgiving, realizing my family will never be like some other families (who actually like each other 😉). We struggle. I like your idea of the beach. It sounds peaceful. I will pray for healing for you and your relationships. Have a sweet day making the blankets!
I would really appreciate prayer as I interact with my neighbor following the totally unexpected suicide of her husband. He was only 34 years old and left a wife and two young children. It all just seems so senseless and just full of unimaginable pain. I came home from work early without knowing that minutes after I arrived home my next door neighbor would out a gun to his head. I ran outdoors when I heard his wife scream. I’ve never seen such a horrific scene. I was tasked to clean it up so the children would not ever see. Oh God!!! My heart and my flesh cry out to the living God??!! Where are you in such pain and confusion and devastation??!! I cannot bear to write the details. My children and I have been running over there now for days, trying to help, trying to pick up the pieces of shattered lives. But I am totally helpless on my own and need Divine intervention. I pray mostly for them to see the love of Jesus even through all of this horror. Thank you, dear friends.
Prayers for your wisdom and your neighbor and children to be comforted through your love and kindness. May they turn to Jesus.
Oh Missy, I just can’t even find words for such a tragedy, praying for you dear sister and for all.
Oh Miriam, how awful for all of you. Will be praying for some kind of peace and comfort to come.
Oh my goodness Miriam — what a horror — and you were there. Yes, seems so senseless. I do ask for God’s comfort for this poor family and for you!
Oh Missy! I can’t comprehend what you have had to deal with regarding your neighbors. We have a cruel enemy sowing lies in the hearts of people who become hopeless and so many of them are taking their own lives.
May God intervene for you and make his presence known in such horrific circumstances and for Jesus to make himself known to this family.
Oh, dear Missy! How terrible for all of you! I pray for strength and wisdom for you, as you help your dear neighbors. I pray that the Lord will take these horrible images from your mind and give you all His peace. May this family see Jesus in you and all you are doing to help them. Lord be very present with Missy and her neighbors, we pray.
Oh, Missy! How terrible and sad news! And for you to do the clean-up. I cannot imagine what that would be like. O God, who knows and sees. Be with this family as they go through this devastation. Intervene as only you can and be with Missy as she ministers to the wife and the children. We look to you to work out everything for good.
Dear Lord, You know our pain. Thank You for Missy! Thank You that she is present for these people who obviously need someone immediately. It was Your faithful servant who came to their rescue. I pray the family does learn who You are through this awful event. Please wipe the details from Missy’s mind, so she can sleep well. Lord, our world is failing now. We need You in our lives. We love You Lord.
Sunday:
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you? – We are in Tennessee now and have no family’ here or coming to visit. But today we were invited to Thanksgiving dinner at a couple’s house who are also newer to Tennessee. Prayers for connection between us and that God provides the conversation since we really don’t know them very well.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why. – What first stood out to me was when he started singing no one stopped talking and I thought how rude. But through the song, which I have never heard before, people were staring to join and become a part of the song. Loved how everyone participated in some way at the end.
I’m so glad someone invited you for Thanksgiving dinner, Julie, and pray it will be a blessing for you!
Praying for the connection! 🙏🙏
How gracious to be invited by new friends. Praying you find great fellowship and friendship in celebrating Thanksgiving together.
Julie, Praying for a time of fellowship and connection with these new friends God has brought into your lives.
Prayers you make sweet connections and find common interests including time to talk about your love for the Lord.
I will be watching for all the prayers needed and will be praying. And for all who are traveling, please drive safely and enjoy your trips.
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you? We’re having an extended family Thanksgiving dinner with both sides of the family, one of my son’s in laws, my brother’s mother in law and a friend from church. Lots of people invited (my sons, their spouses and children alone are 22). We’re hosting it in our church basement (that has a kitchen). I’m making 3 turkeys. Prayers that it isn’t unenjoyable chaos.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why. It’s a catchy summary of Psalm 107.
Praying it is not unemployable chaos! Happy Thanksgiving!
Sorry! Unenjoyable chaos! Spell check!!!
It spell checked on me, too. I had to change it before posting.
Wow, Dawn — may the Lord give you strength and health — and that it not be unenjoyable chaos! You made me smile, but I do agree with your prayer.
Wow Dawn, That’s a lot of people and a lot of turkey 😊 and because through the years our Thanksgiving gatherings have been very large. I understand the planning and work involved. May God strengthen and bless you.
You are amazing, Dawn! Praying for joy, delight and lots of fun and conversation with your big family and extended family! You are giving them a great gift by being such an amazing hostess! Three turkeys! Wow!! May any chaos, be pure joy!!
Prayers this a memorable love filled Thanksgiving. That everyone stays healthy and appreciates all that’s being done for a blessed Thanksgiving. Lord prevent any mishaps or misunderstandings.
Dawn, you make me smile. People will be blessed by your hospitality.
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
I have not felt very well this last week. Cold/allergies, as well as some extreme pain in my (dancing) feet. Not sure what that is all about 🤷🏻♀️.
This year I decided to ask my family to participate in cooking Thanksgiving dinner. It’s hard to let go, but necessary! My mom was the ultimate cook. Even on a regular Tuesday night she would have a 5 course meal! I remember dad walking in from work and saying, “Margaret, I want a Boston Crème pie for dessert!” She would whip one out! Before boxes, and she worked as a psychologist full time! Amazing….sigh. I am not that person!
So, this year, instead of cooking myself, all day long, I have decided to involve others. Each person is getting g something to cook, and my SIL has agreed to wash the fine China 😉.
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
oh how I love this video! I remember you used it before I love the jazzy rhythm and how the band joins together. The music so fits the actual Psalm! It’s so hopeful for me on this early Monday morning.
Glad you asked for help — sounds like your mom has the talent to give it. And may the Lord put His healing hand on you.
Laura, Sorry to hear you are struggling with some physical issues. Praying God will bring you needed relief and that you can enjoy the day.
Fine China takes me back to having Thanksgiving every year at my in-laws and she set multiple tables with her china and brought out all the extra dishes. But it sounds like you are delegating things well. Praying our Heavenly Father blesses you day with a thankful heart and the blessing if his presence.
Laura, I pray that you are feeling much better soon! You are so wise to get others to help with the dinner! I pray that it is a wonderful day of joy! May God bless your time together as family. That is such a gift.
Oh Laura, that is a to put on yourself. My Ladies Mentoring Group is reading through the book Adorned and we just read how each person and their circumstances are different and that the Proverbs 31 Woman will not be the same for us. Don’t think you are any less than your Mom who sounds wonderful by the way. Just be YOU and who God made you to be. Hugs my friend.
Dear Lord Let the day be filled with loving fellowship that will linger with good memories. Let everyone leave knowing they were well fed and well loved.
Laura, boston cream pie! I could just see it on the table with the fine china! Praying for your healing and an enjoyable time with your family.
Monday: Thanks for the Lord’s Initial Rescue
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life.
—Verses 1 and 8 speak of the “steadfast love of the LORD”. when I see the word steadfast I always think of rock solid as the meaning. God’s love is as sure and unmovable as solid rock and it lasts forever. I take comfort and find great security in the solidity and depth of God’s love for me.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were wand’ring in the desert with our souls so starved and weak.
We were hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek.
But we lifted up our voices to the only One who hears;
And the God of mercy came and brought us near.
4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks.
—The turning point comes in verse 6. “Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.”
To be specific, hmmm? It is so often I cry out to God with my needs. Some are very small and personal but He often reminds me of his nearness and that truly calms my troubled heart time and time again. And I think it is most often through his Word. Scripture speaks so clearly and is so important to bringing balance back into my life. That’s one of the reasons I participate here. 😊
Bev, I love: “God’s love is as sure and unmovable as solid rock and it lasts forever!” Amen! And I agree, being here brings balance to my life too! Thanksgiving blessings to you and your family.
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life.
He is good. His lovingkindness is everlasting. God is unchanging. He has redeemed me from the hand of the adversary. My soul was faint and cried out to Him. He delivered me. When my soul and heart have wandered, He has forgiven me and shown me the way to true satisfaction in this life. He is consistent, while I am on an emotional roller coaster. He draws me back into His hand; I have only to look to Him, Praise Him, Thank Him and I once again know that His way is the way to satisfy what my soul craves and needs. And He is good. “Is He-quite safe? ” “Safe? Who said anything about safe?” “‘Course He isn’t safe, but He is good.”~ C.S. Lewis
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were wand’ring in the desert with our souls so starved and weak.We were hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek.But we lifted up our voices to the only One who hears;And the God of mercy came and brought us near.
4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks.
When I think that only things of this earth can satisfy, (lost in the desert) it does not take long for me to realize that such a thought is all about “self”. After losing my husband, I don’t even know where I fit, or if I fit, or where to find the only person I have been with since I was 20 years old. There is nothing of this earth that can help that. It is like walking through a desert without a path or a map. Yet, when I get done with a spree of sobbing my heart out, I pray a Psalm and I pray for others going through a similar loss, or any loss, and I sense that He is listening and He is near to all the broken hearted. He is the path and the map…He shows me the way. Praising gives me compassion for others who are broken hearted; there is nothing like the experience to help you really see the pain of others. The more I Praise Him, the more I see Him. So many things scare me about my future, but then I remember that He holds that future and I want it to be about Him. How I pray that all I do will point others to Him. He satisfies my soul. “And the God of mercy came and brought us near.”
Oh I love this…“Is He-quite safe? ” “Safe? Who said anything about safe?” “‘Course He isn’t safe, but He is good.”~ C.S. Lewis where is this quote from?
Narnia 😉
Awwww, Patti. Your description of how you feel is actually quite sweet. You lost your soulmate. It must be difficult. God is in charge. He will always be your guide. Love and hugs!
Patti — I’m so proud of you for being pro-active about your grief instead of just sinking down. Praying so for you my friend.
“The more I Praise Him, the more I see Him.”
So appreciate you sharing your heart as you journey through this very hard time in your life.
Continuing in prayer for you. 💕
Monday: Thanks for the Lord’s Initial Rescue
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life. – God is always ready to provide for us and help us. He waits for our cries to come out. He is such a loving God that if we would see his goodness and not wander away, he is ready to be our help in our times of need. There are so many times I can recount where he was right there as soon as I cried out, but I had to make the move. He is willing and able, but we need to ready for His help.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were wand’ring in the desert with our souls so starved and weak.We were hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek.But we lifted up our voices to the only One who hears;And the God of mercy came and brought us near.
4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks. – Growing up as catholic I knew there was a God and I did all that was needed as a catholic in good standing, but that was where it ended. I didn’t dig into His Word or stretch myself to learn more about him. It was more of a check the box relationship. But he didn’t give up on me. He put people in my life that were strong in their faith and had a hunger for a close relationship with Jesus. They didn’t put, but they were consistent in how they talked, lived and worked. I saw through them the goodness of God and wanted what they had. Because of them and their faith in Christ, I became a true believer, not just a check the box Christian, and a Christian that what so much of what God was willing to give. Thank you, Lord, for not giving up on me and for seeing what I had inside even though I didn’t know it was in there. Thank you for placing just the right people in my life at the time I was ready to see and hear. Amen
Wonderful to read your testimony, Julie!
Julie, Thank you for sharing your testimony. I love how God knows how to reach our hearts… love this: “Thank you for placing just the right people in my life at the time I was ready to see and hear. Amen”
Lord the cries are coming out and I know you hear them. Be with each and every sister and friend here on this blog. We all need you and think at times we aren’t worthy to have you. Bring us peace, comfort and strength to get through this holiday season. Help us to make it simple but yet memorable. Help us all to not be stressed during this season and to remember it’s about YOU! Provide traveling mercies to everyone and keep us all safe. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Julie,
Thank you so much for this beautiful prayer and important reminder.
“Help us to make it simple but yet memorable. Help us all to not be stressed during this season and to remember it’s about YOU!”
Yes! It is about Him!!
Julie,
Amen to Bev! Thank you for this meaningful prayer reminder! Simple and memorable and All about Him!
Julie, thanks for the prayers. Yes, may this Thanksgiving Day for all of us be all about Jesus.
Thank you for the beautiful prayer ♥️
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life. Those He redeemed from the hand of the foe. He has redeemed me from the enemy. He could have left me doing my own thing, pretty much ignoring me as I ignored Him. Instead He kept calling me to fill my emptiness with Himself. What blessing I receive.
4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks. I was foolish and wandered and for long time didnt know to seek Him Enough problems and unhappiness and ill family member brought me to my knees. He then directed my steps to a church that was going to be openly seeking to love Jesus. I thank You Lord. In Your great Grace and love brought my heart and mind to turn to You. You then positioned me to be discipled and to grow in love with You. You are patient with me and forgive me. Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere.
This is golden, Judy: “He kept calling me to fill my emptiness with Himself. What blessing I receive.”
Sunday:
1. What is happening this coming week and how can we pray for you?
My husband’s two sisters, their husbands, and an elderly widow friend of one of his sisters will join us for Thanksgiving Day. Ruth and her dog, Sam, will be with us as well. This is one of the very few times we get together every year and I am praying for this year to be a significant and good relaxing time. There are some business items that the siblings have been talking about for the last few months. I will not be surprised if that comes up. I have some board games I will lay out for us to play. Richard and his siblings are musically gifted so I thought it would be fun if we could sing some hymns or praise songs. The absence of my parents-in-law brings a tinge of sorrow to the occasion still. They were very much loved!
2. Watch the above video and share what stands out to you and why.
I thought it was a very creative rendition of Psalm 107. The 43 verses in the original Psalm 107 seem to chronicle the many ills of humanity but one thing for sure is that God is immutable-his good loving kindness never ceases.
I love the chorus:
Oh, give thanks to the LORD for His love endures forever!
We were wandering and lost, and our Father brought us home,
To a safe dwelling place, to a feast of joy and laughter.
Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
It does seem like your relationship with Ruth is so much better. Good to welcome her dog. We now have 2 dogs in church — one has attachment disorder the other helps the woman with her anxiety!
Dee, thank you for mentioning Ruth. She and I have had really good times together lately. Her critters have helped much with our interactions and they are very precious to her and to me.
Oh, I pray that it is a lovely day and so happy that Ruth and Sam will be with you!
Thanks, Patti! The sons and their families are off to their wives’ side of the family or we would have more than double our numbers. I am excited to see how the day will pan out with just the siblings and their spouses together. and I am praying for this widow-friend of my sister-in-law to be blessed with our company. Aahh…it is good to give thanks unto the lord; His love endures forever!
3. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life.
I think what mostly resonates with me is the redeemed part. I feel like He has done just that with me in the last few months! I asked Him to save me and He has. Thank You Lord, Jesus! Hallelujah!
4. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks.
When I was between the ages of about 17 and 26, I was not following the Lord. I was a lost soul. I met my husband and got married, and we had our first child. John was about 14 months old when a light bulb went off in my head. It said, “I am missing something with this baby. I’m supposed to be doing something I’m not doing. Church. That’s it! I’m supposed to take my child to church!” I had grown up in a church going (every week) family, and knew that was the right thing to do. We began going to church and have not stopped since. It’s been 33 years!
Sounds like the Lord was speaking to you very clearly!
I love the story of how your first child, John, caused the light bulb to go off! It is so good to look back and see how the Lord was right there prompting your heart, Laura! Thankful for Redemption too!!
Tuesday: Rescuing from Sin
5. Read Psalm 107: 10-16 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
—“Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!” Psalm 107:15 ESV
This stands out to me and speaks to the wonderful work of Salvation that God has provided out of his deep and steadfast love for the children of man who were slaves to sin and shame through his only Son Jesus.
6. How has the Lord released you, for the most part, from the chains of a particular sin? Be specific and then give thanks.
—Over the years I have sinned far too often in my heart towards others having a lack of love and feeling resentment for what people have said or done to me. Even feeling hateful toward them. But slowly over the years Gods has patiently given me a heart of love for some very unlovable individuals. Unlovable to me but not to Him and that has been the important thing for me to understand much more fully the love of God. As I have recognized and experienced the depth and rock solid love of God as my Father for me I have come to appreciate how his love is the very same to all of mankind. And I have come to understand His requirement of me to have a heart of compassion and to love others as He has loved me.
Oh give thanks to the LORD for His love endures forever!
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
I love that God can change our hearts to love the unlovable. His love does endure forever! Thank you for this blessing, Bev.
Monday: Thanks for the Lord’s Initial Rescue
1. Read Psalm 107:1-9 out loud and share what stands out to you, but also, how it resonates with your life.
There was a time in my life when I felt like a wandering nomad. Due to Richard’s health challenges, we decided to leave the Philippines and settle in the U.S. While waiting on the Lord for guidance, we stayed with my in-laws who were as generous as they have always been. I was away from my mom and siblings and the homesickness was overwhelming. Ruth was just 2 years old then. The future looked bleak. Where are you sending us, Lord? v. 6 resonated with me “I cried out to the Lord…”
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were wand’ring in the desert with our souls so starved and weak.We were hungry for a homeland we did not know how to seek.But we lifted up our voices to the only One who hears;And the God of mercy came and brought us near.
2. How can you identify with the above — either in first coming to the Lord or Him bringing you back? Be specific and give thanks.
The above narrative happened a while back, but I clearly remember hungering for a place of safety, security, and refuge. A place of peace no matter where it was. I knew He heard my cry when He brought a friend who drove hundreds of miles to see us and pray with and for us. That is when I realized that the place I was looking for was a person and He has always been there for me. I was just so focused on my grief and pain, that I couldn’t see Him. Jesus!
5. Read Psalm 107: 10-16 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life. He brought them out of darkness. Utter darkness and broke away their chains. I was living in darkness because I wasn’t a Christian. This led to being trapped in unhealthy destructive thought patterns. So when I became a Christian and longed for light in my life, He showed me where to seek freedom. 6. How has the Lord released you, for the most part, from the chains of a particular sin? Be specific and then give thanks. The Lord has released me from depression which manifested in lack of gratitude for the many blessings I have. Thank You Lord for setting me free. You could have left me forever thinking the next thing would make me happy. Instead you chose to show me my real need was a relationship with You and seeking to follow Your path.
So much wisdom in your prayer, Judy.
Tuesday: Rescuing from Sin
1. Read Psalm 107: 10-16 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
Growing up in a Christian home was a blessing in so many ways but I resented the constraints I felt were imposed on me. No listening to some particular music, no painting of my nails, no boyfriends until I am ready to marry, etc. I felt suffocated by the religion I was supposed to love. I was a dutiful, religious person outside, but I was rebelling against the Lord inside. Later I was confronted with my sin of pride and idolatry and blaming others by people who love me. He brought me to a place of surrender. Only by the mercies of God that He did not leave me where I was.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were locked out of the garden, and our backs bent down with pain.In the shadow of death’s darkness, we were slaves to sin and blame.Then we cried out in our labor to the only One who hears,And the God of mercy wiped away our tears.
Chorus:Oh give thanks to the LORD for His love endures forever!We were wandering and lost, and our Father brought us home,To a safe dwelling place, to a feast of joy and laughter.Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
The Lord rescued us from the penalty of sin the moment we believed, is rescuing us from the power of sin as we mature, and will rescue us from the presence of sin when we see Him face to face. This verse is about being rescued from the power of sin, which is ongoing.
2. How has the Lord released you, for the most part, from the chains of a particular sin? Be specific and then give thanks.
I have shared it here before, but I had a lot of idols, the most prominent of which is the idol of approval. I was faced with it again this weekend when I was at a wreath workshop that 2 of my friends conducted. It was lovely but I felt something was missing inside of me. When I got home later, I realized that I was seeking my friends’ approval so I had a hard time enjoying myself at the event. I was more concerned about how I was performing at a skill that I knew I did not have a natural talent for than just being thankful for the opportunity to be with my friends! Ugh!
To some degree, being able to recognize this in me is God’s way of releasing me from its power. I prayed to God that night until I had His peace that He loves me anyway and could always rely on His power to save me from such an idol.
So much wisdom in your prayer, Judy.
Bing — I do agree the first step is seeing — I think we all can identify with your wreath making story!
5. Read Psalm 107: 10-16 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
The prison of darkness is a scary thought. And then, God leads us out.
Although I wasn’t really in darkness, in my own mind, God spoke to me on the birthing table with this same child (John), whom we took to church. There is a certain time in your giving birth, when you realize it’s only you and God who are able to get the baby out! No one else can do it for you. That is, unless you are having a C-section! But even still, you know that alone feeling. I said to God, “It’s just You and me now, Lord.” I hadn’t been involved with church at all, for 10 years, at that point. Somehow I knew that God was with me and I needed Him right then. Thank You Lord, for always being faithful.
6. How has the Lord released you, for the most part, from the chains of a particular sin? Be specific and then give thanks.
The Lord has taken away any desire for the sin. I no longer think of it, crave it, or even realize it is there. It is no longer a part of my life. Oh my gosh, He is so good! I asked Him to take it away fully, and He did! God loves me. We are connected. He cares for me. Thank You Lord! You are so consistent in Your protection and Your blessings. Amen.
Laura, I love what you expressed here.
“The Lord has taken away any desire for the sin. I no longer think of it, crave it, or even realize it is there. It is no longer a part of my life. Oh my gosh, He is so good!”
Your joy in this is so refreshing. 💕😊
Wednesday: Rescuing us From Rebellion
7. Read Psalm 107: 17-21 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were fools in our rebellion, with our hunger strike of pride.
We were sick and growing closer to the death we should have died.
Then he heard of our condition, and he called us by our names;
And the God of glory took away our shame.
—The scripture as it was written was hard for me to relate to. But Kimbrough’s paraphrase gives it better meaning for me. For me it speaks to man’s prideful sinful condition before being saved but in calling out to Him He responded and redeemed us. I like the phrase
“Then he heard of our condition, and he called us by our names;
And the God of glory took away our shame.”
That is what resonates with me in answer to question #8
8. How do you resonate with the above?
9. In what areas do you feel you may be still rebelling? Confess and petition Him.
—In my heart I want what God wants for me. But there is always a struggle against the flesh to not give in to fleshy desires. I need to think on this question because the word rebellion sounds and feels very intentional to me. Often I feel tripped up and tempted to be drawn away from the Lord but to just intentionally rebel and turn away from God and his ways for my life is a fearful thing to me. I always want to be getting closer to Him. I know I am not without sin because of my old nature but now that I understand the Cross and the power of it my prayer is that God would forbid I live in any kind of rebellion. I hope this doesn’t come across as self righteous because I truly want to live in dependent intimacy with my God and my Lord and not any kind of rebellion.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I pray you all have a happy, peaceful day today. 🦃🦃🦃
7. Read Psalm 107: 17-21 out loud and share what stands out to you and how it resonates with your life.
The NLT reads:
“Some were fools; they rebelled and suffered for their sins. They couldn’t stand the thought of food, and they were knocking on death’s door. “Lord, help!” they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them, snatching them from the door of death. Let them praise the Lord for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them.”
Psalms 107:17-21 NLT
I do believe the Lord has “snatched” me from deaths door. He has made me see how I was killing myself, slowly. He has taken away the sin and given me a clear head. Thank You Lord!
8. How do you resonate with the above?
I absolutely love the paraphrase from the band. The tune is so catchy and the words are modern and “known” to our times. The part I really like is “…He called us by our names…” It’s so personal.
9. In what areas do you feel you may be still rebelling? Confess and petition Him.
I do have more work to be done on myself. I am going to have to focus on the food thing soon. I figured I would start with my worst vice and move on from there! Dec. 1 is my timeframe for food exorcism 😉. I do have another particular issue that I need to address, but it involves my husband and I’m not sure exactly how to tackle it. Lord, thank You for the Holy Spirit helping me to understand the problem here. Help me to know the next steps, so I do not falter. Amen.
Happy Thanksgiving!
I am so grateful for all of you…for your godly and encouraging input. Please know that I have kept all of your prayer requests before our great and caring God. May y’all have blessed and wonderful day!
”Although we may not always be healthy or prosperous, yet God is always good, and therefore, there is always a sufficient argument for giving thanks.”
~ Charles Spurgeon
Sharon,
“……there is always a sufficient argument for giving thanks.”
Yes so true. And Thankyou for your prayers.
Happy Thanksgiving Week to all! Thank you for the quote, Sharon. It resonated well with me as our Thanksgiving Day did not turn out as we humans planned it. My sister-in-law’s son and wife tested positive the day they were to leave for her side of the family’s get-together. The widow friend of my other sister-in-law couldn’t join us as she fell and had a huge hematoma from it. And…Ruth fell at work 2 days before she was going to join us. She sprained her left ankle and is in a boot. She wasn’t able to join us, either.
But God provided a very relaxing time for us who were there. The food was delicious and conversations flew freely. We also had a good time visiting with my husband’s nephew and fiancee. “…there is always a sufficient argument for giving thanks.”~ Charles Spurgeon
Richard and I drove to KC to be with our daughter, Ruth, the next day. It made for a long day but thankful for the opportunity to serve our daughter during her time of need. She was thankful for our help and we were thankful to see her better and coping with her limitations.
Called us by our names! Yes, Laura.
And like Sharon, so thankful for each of you.
Friday:
11. For what can you give thanks concerning your Thanksgiving Day?
—My husband asked our son to share some thoughts and scripture before we ate our meal. He noted that in the bible there are many feasts and God has instituted many of them but he said his favorite is at the return of the Prodigal son the Father throws a big party of feasting to celebrate the return of his son. We enjoyed a day of feasting and just being together as family with two of our children, their families some close friends. There was a good spirit among us and thankful hearts which makes mine very thankful.
12. Read Psalm 107:22-31 and share what resonates with you and why.
— verses 22 and 31 stand out to me that when my response to God is one of thanksgiving and praise my focus changes and my spirit is uplifted when I do them. It resonates with me because in this dark and troubling there is much to discourage and drag us away from the truth of just how wonderful our God snd Father is.
“Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and sing joyfully about his glorious acts.”
“Let them praise the Lord for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them.”
Psalms 107:22, 31 NLT
Read Kimbrough’s paraphrase:
We were far out on the ocean, making wealth and chasing dreams,
But the waves of great destruction brought us tremb’ling to our knees.
Then we cried like drunken sailors to the only One who hears,
And the God of comfort took away our fears.
13. What stands out to you from the above and why?
—“And the God of comfort took away our fears.” Again it is the wonderful beauty of our God to take away our fears. Another wonderful work he will do in our lives if we call on Him and trust in Him.
14. Share a time of great fear in your life from which the Lord delivered you. Give thanks.
—As I reflect on past fears or times of being fearful there was a time when I was first married I feared losing my husband. It was an unfounded fear and came out of my deep insecurities. But over time as I grew in the Lord I began to see and understand I had an unhealthy dependence on my husband and I realize now he was my idol. As I replaced that fear with a deeper trust in God to put Him first in my life that fear diminished and went away.
11. For what can you give thanks concerning your Thanksgiving Day?
I had a very restful day! Thank You Lord! The kids and I even took a walk because the weather was so beautiful 🦃♥️🙏.
12. Read Psalm 107:22-31 and share what resonates with you and why.
I think the part where they praise the Lord for the stillness as a blessing after the storm. I can feel that stillness in my bones sometimes. So sweet.
Saturday:
15. What do you think you will remember from this psalm or this week and why?
Oh give thanks to the LORD for His love endures forever!
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
—These words from Wendell Kimbrough’s song taken from the first verse of Psalm 107 have continued to resonate in song in my mind this week. It has been an encouraging week of remembrance and thanksgiving. Psalm 107 served to truly help me have a mindset of thanksgiving at a deeper level than just things and comfort. Through out this Psalm there are verses that speak to God’s love. From the opening verse to the last verse and repeated 3 times in between the reminder is there and the point made of God’s enduring steadfast love for us. I realize more and more how much God’s enduring love carries me through life.
Love how the song is in your heart. Your son seems very wonderful, Bev.
13. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I like the last line 😉. “…And the God of comfort took away our fears.”
I like to tell those who are afraid, if they believe in God, that the things they’re afraid of are more afraid of Him. I tell the grands this, and even my own daughter who thinks our house is haunted! I think I should share the demons scripture with her 🤔.
14. Share a time of great fear in your life from which the Lord delivered you. Give thanks.
I can’t think of an individual time off the top of my head, but I do get scared every time I fly. Every single time, as we lift off, I pray for God to keep us safe. Every time, He gives me peace! It’s a sweet thing. Thank You Jesus! ♥️🙏
Saturday:
15. What do you think you will remember from this psalm or this week and why?
We can be in very dire conditions caused by our own doings and yet God is always there to listen to our cries for help.
These phrases: to the only One who hears, the God of mercy (He brought us near), our Father (brought us home), the God of glory (took away our shame), the God of comfort (took away our fears)
I see a thread of the story of the prodigal son in this song rendition of Psalm 107. Oh, what love God has for us!
And I am excited to hear my husband’s message for church tomorrow based on Psalm 107.
15. What do you think you will remember from this psalm or this week and why? His love endures forever. I’ve been thinking the last few days of a concept you, Dee, had in a Bible study. Perichoresis. The continuity of love and the dance that goes on between and because of the Trinity. Why? because I need to appreciate and be thankful for that kind of generous costly unselfish love.
I love you remember that, Judy!