“Heart-Joy”

The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure and bright, enlightening the eyes. Psalm 19:8 (AMP)

The Eternal’s directions are correct, giving satisfaction to the heart. God’s commandments are clear, lending clarity to the eyes. Psalm 19:8 (VOICE)

The life-maps of God are right, showing the way to joy. The directions of God are plain and easy on the eyes. Psalm 19:8 (MSG)

"The statutes of the Lord are right." His precepts and decrees are founded in righteousness, and are such as are right or fitted to the right reason of man. As a physician gives the right medicine, and a counsellor the right advice, so does the Book of God. "Rejoicing the heart." Mark the progress; he who was converted was next made wise and is now made happy; that truth which makes the heart right then gives joy to the right heart. Free-grace brings heart-joy. Earthborn mirth dwells on the lip, and flushes the bodily powers; but heavenly delights satisfy the inner nature, and fill the mental faculties to the brim. There is no cordial of comfort like that which is poured from the bottle of Scripture. Treasury of David

This time of year, Christmas, we hear a lot about joy and happiness. If we get that perfect gift, we’ll be so happy. If we get everything on our wish list, we’ll be ecstatic. If we just can get that one item, or find it on sale so we can buy it ourselves, we’ll be filled with joy! Oh, until that item breaks, or we learn after Christmas a new, and improved model is now available.., or we realize that the gift wasn’t all it was advertised to be.... then our joy is gone. 

True joy has its foundation in God, Himself. And since God does not change, He cannot be improved upon, for He is perfect in every way—the joy He provides is everlasting. God’s joy is available, I only have to read the Scriptures and love God, and obey Him. “Heart-joy”. That is joy that springs up inside and bubbles out. It’s a joy that is from God so there is a never-ending supply. 

To create a positive day, I need to make sure my focus and desire for joy is not based on earthly treasures, but is a true and honest, “Heart-Joy” direct from God! 

Always on Duty

My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:2 (AMP)

The Eternal Creator of heaven and earth and these mountains will send the help I need. Psalm 121:2 (VOICE)

Help. Sometimes I know the help I need and other times, I don’t realize that I need help. 

I like to plan and prepare. However, I continue to learn that sometimes things happen for which you cannot prepare. On Nov 4, I was at a restaurant watching the Bears football game. I passed out. (Exciting Monday Night!)
Thankfully, those around me caught me so that I did not fall to the floor. The EMTs were called and I spent the night in the hospital for tests. Everything is fine and the doctors contributed the fainting to a combination of medications and the pain level itself. 

Some are now asking, were was God help that night. God provided LOTS of help! First and foremost that I was not driving when I passed out. Secondly, God caught the attention of those around me so that they could catch me, so that I did not hit the floor. The restaurant staff and customers were awesome. The EMTs that arrived and transported me to the hospital were helpful and very kind. And lastly, the hospital was able to attend to me quickly and took great care in making sure I was OK. God was there helping me each step of the way. I’m thankful that God provided all the help I needed—this time using strangers. 

Another example of God’s help happened this week. I went to take my pain medication and the bottle was almost empty. No problem, I have a larger bottle in the cupboard... OK, so I don’t, I had already emptied that bottle. Now what? Trying to get in to see my Dr. the week of Thanksgiving is almost impossible. That’s when God prompted me to check my pharmacy online... I did and I had one more refill before next week! So I was able to order the refill and have it before I ran out of medication. I was very thankful that God was way ahead of me on this one! He helped make sure I had the medications I needed, when I wasn’t paying attention. 

Help. I’m thankful that God is there to help, even when I don’t realize I need it. He’s such an awesome Heavenly Father! To create a positive day, I only have to rest the assurance that God is my help and He’s always on duty. 

EXCITING MONDAY NIGHT!

Wow, what an Exciting Monday Night! 

Let's see… on Monday, Nov 4th, I had a chiropractic appointment, then stopped at Anyway's American Grill & Pub to enjoy dinner and watch the Chicago Bears  football game. 

Just before half time… I fainted. Never had that happen before! The EMTs arrived and my blood pressure was way too low so off to the hospital I went. They ran LOTS of tests. I got to watch my heart beat as they did an echocardiogram. They even added bubbles.. that was 'way cool' to watch! All the results were normal. They attribute the passing out to a combination of pain medication, pain itself, and being a little dehydrated…….maybe the excitement that the Bears were actually BEATING the Packers was just too much… lol 

I was able to meet some amazing people, starting at Anyways, the EMTs, the hospital Emergency Dr and Staff, then the Nurses and Doctors on the cardiology floor, the Techs at all the various testing rooms. I was able to share that God is good! and give some "Create A Positive Day!" cards out. 

I have NO idea why I passed out, but I do know that God PUT me exactly where He wanted me to share how awesome my God is. 

I continue to learn that sometimes when things happen, it's not about me. That God wants to introduce me to people so that I can share how God is working in my life. 

Creating a positive day, is not about me feeling good or just having fun, rather it's about knowing that God is in control and that He is working in and through me for His glory and honor. 

PS. The Bears did win the game 27 to 20! I was able to watch the game in the ER, so that was good. Wasn't sure if the attention I received from the ER Dr and Staff was because they were concerned about me…. or just wanted to see the Bears Game. lol (Seriously, though, they took great care of me!)

Update Wed, Nov 6th: Was talking with God this morning about my "exciting Monday night/Tuesday". I have to say that as I look at the details… wow. First off, I was standing near a table as I started to pass out, and the people nearby caught me, so that I did not fall. There was a Pediatric Nurse there, who stepped in and helped me until the EMTs arrived. The EMTs were great. The Hospital was able to begin treating me as soon as I arrived (due to the fact the EMTs knew which hospitals were busy and which one was not). Even though I was weak, I was coherent and able to tell the Nurses and Dr the vital information. 

The Nurses I had …. were all former HEROES! One served as a firefighter the other an EMT before becoming Nurses. Then one of the Techs I had was a Military Navy Veteran from Florida! His family lives in the city where I was born. As always I was on the "look out" for ways to share my "Create a Positive Day!' cards. And God presented several opportunities. 

Then when I was transferred to a room about 3 am…. my Nurse was so helpful and kind. She asked if I was afraid to go home (a question they ask to learn if there is any abuse in families or home situations). I replied with "No, I'm actually wondering what my parakeet is doing." lol She then asked lots of questions about Max… and of course that opened the door for me to give her one of my "Create a Positive Day!" cards with Max's pictures on it. 

The Drs ordered various tests which included drawing blood and IVs. Each time they needed to "stick me" my veins cooperated. So I'm only bruised a little. So thankful for Nurses who listen to patients who tell them, "use this vein and a double tourniquet". They each listened, and there were no problems. 

Even when there were delays in transporting me from tests, they were "God-designed" as it gave me even more opportunities to share how good my God is. God provided several one-on-one opportunities that would not normally happen in a busy hospital. 

God continues to teach me that it is not about "me". Rather, God creates situations and opportunities to introduce me to people to share about God and His love. 

Although, I'd rather not go through all this again… I do know that if I do, God has a purpose and plan that only He can design. I continue to ask God to make me aware of and attentive to His God-designed plans to give Him the glory and honor. 

Thank you for all your prayers….God is answering them in the most amazing ways!

Not Even Give A Thought

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 16. Here is what I learned.

All the while the despair of many, who abandoned Your goodness for the empty promises of false gods, increases day by day. I refuse to pour out blood offerings, to utter their names from my lips. Psalm 16:4 (VOICE)

Those who quickly chase after other gods multiply their sorrows. I will not pour out their sacrificial offerings of blood or use my lips to speak their names. Psalm 16:4 (GW)

Nor take up their names into my lips - As objects of worship. That is, I will not in any way acknowledge them as gods, or render to them the homage which is due to God. The very mention of the name of any other god than the true God was solemnly forbidden by the law of Moses Exodus 23:13, "And make no mention of the name of other gods, neither let it be heard out of your mouth." So the apostle Paul says Ephesians 5:3, "But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not once be named among you, as becometh saints." The idea in these places seems to be, that the mere mention of these things would tend to produce dangerous familiarity with them, and by such familiarity take off something of the repugnance and horror with which they should be regarded, They were, in other words, to be utterly avoided; they were never to be thought of or named; they were to be treated as though they were not. No one can safely so familiarize himself with vice as to render it a frequent subject of conversation. Pollution will flow into the heart from words which describe pollution, even when there is no intention that the use of such words should produce contamination. No one can be familiar with stories or songs of a polluted nature, and still retain a heart of purity. "The very passage of a polluted thought through the mind leaves pollution behind it." How much more is the mind polluted when the thought is dwelt upon, and when utterance is given to it in language! Barnes' Notes on the Bible

When man turns from God, they seek other gods to worship. They are dissatisfied with themselves, and their lives yet can’t find the solution; therefore, they continue to search for satisfaction in other gods—anything but the one true God where they can find peace and contentment. 

Why do so many reject God? Perhaps because they have to realize that they are not in control, and need to surrender to One more powerful and Holy. 

Even though I believe in God, and love Him...... how often do I turn from Him because I’d rather enjoy a few moments of sin... or think I am smarter than God... or whatever the reason. Any item, thought, or action that is contrary to God’s holy standard is sin. And if I continue to follow after that sin, that is an idol. And there is to be no other god than GOD... in my life. 

To create a positive day, I need to not even give a thought to anything that is not in accordance with God and His Word.

True and Long-lasting Blessings

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 67. Here is what I learned.

God is the source of our blessings; may every corner of the earth respect and revere Him. Psalm 67:7 (VOICE)

You mark us with blessing, O God. Earth’s four corners—honor him! Psalm 67:7 (MSG)

If I follow the thinking of commercials, if I buy the latest style of phone, or have new newest car, or a new pair of jeans, I’d be filled with peace and contentment. That is, until the next style of phone comes on sale.... then the “old” just wont do anymore. 

But as we all know, having the newest phone, or car, may give us a “moment of thrill”, but it soon fades. Finding contentment and peace in things, provides only disappointment. 

The focus of Psalm 67 is God, the True God. When God marks us with blessing.... not only do we have peace and contentment, but those around us can see God’s “blessing mark” upon us. 

God’s blessings aren’t about things, or being pain free. Rather God’s blessings are simply those reminders of His amazing love. It could be a beautiful sunrise, or sunset. It could be a smile from a stranger. Or a song that lifts our spirits. Blessings come in all shapes and sizes, and are often very unexpected. 

If you are looking for blessings in your life, stop looking to people or things, rather look to God .... He is the only source for true and long-lasting blessings! 

To create a positive day, I only have to be alert to the blessings God is giving me! 

“I” Needs to Get Out of the Way!

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 121. Here is what I learned.

I will lift up my eyes to the hills [around Jerusalem, to sacred Mount Zion and Mount Moriah]—From whence shall my help come? Psalm 121:1 (AMP)

The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore. Psalm 121:8 (AMP)

As I read Psalm 121 this morning, I noticed that the Psalm begins with “I” yet the focus soon changes to “The Lord”. The Lord is the source of light, strength, safety..... He is the source for everything that I need. 

So often I get stuck on the “I”, thinking that I can do it alone. Yet, when I try, I fall short, and miss so many of the wonderful blessings God has for me. “I” gets me in lots of trouble. 

As I continue to reflect on the past 13 years since my back injury.... all I can say is "Wow, what a great and awesome God I have!"  Although I'd like the pain to be GONE! I have to agree with Paul…. 

"…... I was given the gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations. Satan’s angel did his best to get me down; what he in fact did was push me to my knees. No danger then of walking around high and mighty! At first I didn’t think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then he told me,

My grace is enough; it’s all you need.

My strength comes into its own in your weakness.

Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ’s strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become." 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (MSG) 

There are days when I don't see my pain as a gift… but when I stop and consider all the opportunities for me to share His great love, because of my pain, and I stop and realize that my pain is small in comparison to all Jesus Christ suffered for me—then I can say…. that God's grace and strength is all I need. My prayers is that "I just let Christ take over!" each and every day.

To create a positive day, “I” needs to get out of the way and allow “Christ to take over!” 

Priority One

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 27. Here is what I learned.

You have said, Seek My face [inquire for and require My presence as your vital need]. My heart says to You, Your face (Your presence), Lord, will I seek, inquire for, and require [of necessity and on the authority of Your Word]. Psalm 27:8 (AMP)

The prodding of my heart leads me to chase after You. I am seeking You, Eternal One—don’t retreat from me. Psalm 27:8 (VOICE)

Necessity. Indispensable. An imperative requirement or need for something. Absolutely necessary. Essential. 

Is God’s Word a vital necessity for me?  Is studying, and applying God’s Word an imperative requirement for me? Does my heart ache for the Truth of God?

I need to make God “Priority One” in my life. For only when I make God “Priority One” will I have the privilege of getting to know Him, and work on building a deeper more meaningful relationship with my great God. 

Necessity. Indispensable. If I really want to create a positive day, God must be “Priority One”!   

Motivation is Meritorious

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 15. Here is what I learned.

They do not charge interest on money they lend and do not take ·money [a bribe] to hurt innocent people. 

Whoever does all these things will never be ·destroyed [moved]. Psalm 15:5 (EXB)

The one who does not collect interest on a loan or take a bribe against an innocent person. Whoever does these things will never be shaken. Psalm 15:5 (GW)

Motivation. I find that word interesting. Why does a person do what they do? What is their motivation? Is there a hidden agenda? What is the incentive? 

Motivation can be a good thing... it can create a desire to go above and beyond the ordinary to help another. Motivation can also encourage us to do better than we thought we could do. 

Yet, the wrong motivation can create a discontentments and frustration if we expect something in return. 

Making sure my motivation is meritorious (noble, honorable) is major in maintaining a meaningful relationship with God. God knows why I do what what I do. He knows my heart. 

How do I keep my motivation in check? By making sure that I’m doing what I’m doing to honor God, and not please a person or make myself look good. I’ve written before about “making my Boss, look good.” And “my Boss” is God. I’m to do ALL things to give Him glory and honor. 

Well, I’ll tell you why. It is because you must do everything for the glory of God, even your eating and drinking. 1 Corinthians 10:31 (TLB)

To create a positive day, I need to make sure my motivation is meritorious and giving glory to God. 

Take Delight

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 1. Here is what I learned.

But they delight in doing everything God wants them to, and day and night are always meditating on his laws and thinking about ways to follow him more closely. Psalm 1:2 (TLB)

They ·love [delight in] the Lord’s ·teachings [laws; instructions], and they ·think about [meditate on] those ·teachings [laws; instructions] day and night. Psalm 1:2 (EXB)

Doing everything God wants them to......... that word EVERYTHING encompasses so much! There are some things that are fun to do... those are easy to accomplish. BUT...... everything God wants me to do.... that’s a bit harder. 

Such as:

But I say: Love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! Matthew 5:44 (TLB)

How can I do that? The only way is to love God, and take delight in obeying Him. When I focus on Who God is, and what He wants me to do... then obeying Him is easier. When we love someone, we don’t mind doing what they ask... even if we think the task is unpleasant. 

If I’m finding it hard to do everything God wants... and taking delight in obeying God, then I need to spend time in deepening my relationship with Him. For out of love comes obedience. 

To create a positive day, I need to take delight and enjoy obeying God..... and if I’m not, than I need to spend time with Him deepening my relationship. 

Stop Acting like a Brat

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 13. Here is what I learned.

I will sing to the Lord because he has blessed me so richly. Psalm 13:6 (TLB)

I’m singing at the top of my lungs, I’m so full of answered prayers. Psalm 13:6 (MSG)

So full of answered prayers..... yet, how often do I focus on the unanswered prayers—or unanswered in my mind? A parent does not give a child everything they ask for, nor do they respond immediately to each request. For a parent knows that a child will ask for things that are not in the best interest of the child. 

The same is true with my Heavenly Father. He knows what I need, and when I need it. God also knows that I will ask for things that are not the best for me. Therefore, God’s blessings are in accordance with His purpose, will and most importantly are given in love. 

On the days that I don’t feel like singing—I know exactly why the song doesn’t come. It’s because I’m pouting and focusing on the unanswered requests, and the blessings that I think I should have. In other words, I’m acting like a brat! Ungrateful for the amazing blessings that God has provided, I’d rather focus on what I didn’t get. Yes, that is acting like an ungrateful spoiled brat! 

To create a positive day, I need stop acting like a brat and change my focus on the fact that God in His love will bless me with only those blessings that are the best for me, and are in accordance with His will and purpose. 

Always Accessible

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 11. Here is what I learned.

The Lord is in His holy temple; the Lord’s throne is in heaven. His eyes behold; His eyelids test and prove the children of men. Psalm 11:4 (AMP)

But the Eternal has not moved; He remains in His holy temple. He sits squarely on His heavenly throne. He observes the sons of Adam and daughters of Eve, examining us within and without, exploring every fiber of our beings. Psalm 11:4 (VOICE)

But the Lord is still in his holy temple; he still rules from heaven. He closely watches everything that happens here on earth. Psalm 11:4 (TLB)

The Lord is in his holy temple - Hebrew, "Jehovah is in the temple of his holiness." That is, he is in heaven, regarded as his temple or dwelling-place. This is the answer of the psalmist to the suggestions of his advisers that he should flee from danger. The answer is, in substance, that he had nothing to fear; that he had a protector in heaven; and that he might appeal to Him for defense. The idea is, that God, the protector of the righteous, is always in the heavens; that his throne is always accessible; and that to it the persecuted may come, and may always be safe.

The Lord's throne is in heaven - God is a king, ruling the universe. As such, the seat of his power or dominion is represented as in heaven, where he administers his government. That throne is fixed, and the affairs of his universe will be administered with justice. The righteous, therefore, may hope in his protection, and need not flee when the wicked assail them. The idea here is that of unwavering confidence in God as sitting upon the throne of the universe, and administering its affairs with justice and truth. Barnes' Notes on the Bible 

“The idea is, that God, the protector of the righteous, is always in the heavens; that his throne is always accessible; and that to it the persecuted may come, and may always be safe.” 

That sentence is an awesome ponder morsel for today! WOW!

To create a positive day, it’s all about remembering that God is always in the heavens, He’s always accessible and no matter what happens, I’ll be safe! 

Relationship

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 8. Here is what I learned.

The birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatever passes along the paths of the seas. Psalm 8: 8 (AMP)

I’m continually amazed at Max, my parakeet. To think a bird, who has the freedom to fly about the apartment, chooses to sit on my shoulder most of the time. He wants to be near me. 

There is a contrast to the birds that visit on my balcony. They fly away when I get anywhere near the sliding door. The birds outside will come to the balcony for food and water, but they don’t want to be near me. There is no relationship or trust with the wild birds. Rather, Max has learned that he can trust me, and that I care for him. 

My relationships with the wild birds vs Max are very different. The wild birds know that they will find food and water on my balcony, so they come when they are hungry or thirsty. There is no interaction. Max on the other hand, talks to me, likes to be near me. When he gets a down feather stuck in his mouth, he flies to me, knowing that I’ll help him. Max knows that even when I trim his nails, something he hates, that I’m caring for him. 

As I think about the relationships with the birds around me, I have to think also of my relationship with God. Do I see God as only a provider of “food and water”? Do I just go to Him to ask for something, but don’t take spend time with Him? Do I understand that even when God allows things in my life that I don’t like, He is help me and teaching me? 

Relationships are based on trust, and getting to know someone. If I only expect God to give me food and water, I miss out on so much. Yet, building the relationship with God is up to me. God wants me to know Him; He is waiting. 

To create a positive day, I need to work on building my relationship with God.

Immeasurable Greatness

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 150. Here is what I learned.

Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to the abundance of His greatness! Psalm 150:2 (AMP)

abundance: be more, multiply, ten thousands

abundance: noun

1. an extremely plentiful or over sufficient quantity or supply

2. overflowing fullness

3. affluence; wealth

As I read Psalm 150 this morning, I had to stop and think about the word, “abundance”. As I looked up the meaning, the word in Hebrew means “ten thousands”, multiply. 

God’s greatness is in the “ten thousands” and literally beyond! I’m to be praising God simply because of His greatness..... the abundance, the ten thousands of his greatness. 

How do I grasp “ten thousands”? I really can’t. God’s greatness is really immeasurable. 

Even if I can’t grasp the immeasurable greatness of God, to create a positive day, I need to start by praising God simply because of His greatness! 

Misplaced Trust

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 146. Here is what I learned.

Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no help. Psalm 146:3 (AMP)

Do not put your ·trust [confidence] in princes or other people, who cannot ·save you [give you victory]. Psalm 146:3 (EXB)

Do not put your trust in the rulers of this world—kings and princes. Do not expect any rescue from mortal men. Psalm 146:3 (VOICE)

Yesterday, I held an “Apartment Sale”. I spent the last 2 weeks preparing for the sale. Pricing the items, organizing the clothes, posting signs, etc. I was SURE I’d make “LOTS” of money to help me pay some bills. I mean, this was the perfect way to earn some money! But I only sold 2 things and the first person bought the items BEFORE the sale day, the other person bought a set of storage units, and she was at the sale to help me with the sale. 

So, actually, no one came to the sale. I was frustrated. I thought for sure this was a great way to get some money. But then this morning I read Psalm 146:3...... Do not put your trust in other people.... for there is no help! 

God is NOT limited to a 2 hour window of selling items. God is more creative than an “apartment sale” to supply my needs. I have to remember that God is wiser and has unlimited ways to care for me. 

Do not trust in other people...... for the supplier of my needs. I’m to trust in God ONLY! For only God knows my needs and can supply exactly what I need at the time needed. 

So, what a bout the “Apartment Sale”? I do believe that God would have me do what I can to sell the items. So, I’ll try a few more times. But even if I don’t sell anything else, I know that God can and will supply my needs, for my hope and trust is not in other people. 

To create a positive day, I need to make sure I don’t have misplaced trust—people cannot help me—God is the only true and honest source of help. 

Ever-Present

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 138. Here is what I learned.

Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch forth Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me. Psalm 138:7 (AMP)

Lord, ·even when I have trouble all around me [If I walk in the midst of distress], you will keep me alive.

When my enemies are angry, you will ·reach down [send out your hand] and save me by your ·power [right hand]. Psalm 138:7 (EXB)

What? Wait a minute... what does this verse say? “Midst of TROUBLE”? Midst of Distress? I thought that loving God and obeying Him would allow me to AVOID all trouble and distress! 

Well, actually that’s not true. Throughout Scripture God teaches us that our lives will not be “perfect” but rather no matter what happens, God is there with us. 

But why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? Many reasons. Some of which we, in our finite human minds, cannot nor will never understand. Yet, no matter what is happening or what trouble we find ourselves in the midst of we have things we can do. 

1. Determine if the trouble/distress is caused by sin in your life. If it is, confess and make changes so you don’t create that situation again. 

2. Determine if God is teaching you something. Perhaps He is trying to get your attention so that you can create a deeper relationship with God. 

3. Remember that God is still worthy of praise no matter the level of trouble or distress. Who God is does not change based upon us or our circumstances. God is God—period. 

To create a positive day, I need to remember, that when I find myself in the midst of trouble, God is still God and He is ever-present. 

Stop Making Excuses

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 47. Here is what I learned.

O clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph and songs of joy! Psalm 47:1 (AMP)

Clap your hands, all you people. Shout to God with ·joy [jubilant shouts/cries/sound]. Psalm 47:1 (EXB)

Clap your hands, all of you; raise your voices joyfully and loudly. Give honor for the True God of the universe; Psalm 47:1 (VOICE)

Why? Why should I clap my hands? What reason do I have to clap my hands? Why? Why? Why should I shout to God? Why should I raise my voice joyfully? Why? 

As toddler likes asking “Why?” we too like asking that question. However, just as a toddler isn’t really interested in the answer to his/her question, we aren’t either. We simply would rather ask, “Why?” than to do what is asked of us. For in asking, we are saying that we “know better” or that we have a better reason why something should NOT be done.

Yet, Psalm 47 give us the reason for shouting—to give honor to God. The shouting isn’t about us, or the reasons why. Rather the shouting is to be about God—Who He is, His majesty, The Almighty. 

To create a positive day, I need to stop asking ‘why’, and making excuses, and just give God the honor and praise of which He is worthy.  

While Waiting

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 43. Here is what I learned.

Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the help of my [sad] countenance, and my God. Psalm 43:5 (AMP)

Why ·am I so sad [are you downcast, my soul]? Why ·am I so upset [are you groaning/in an uproar]? I ·should [or will] ·put my hope in [wait for] God and ·keep praising [or will again praise] him, my ·Savior [Victor] and my God. Psalm 43:5 (EXB)

"Hope in God," or "wait for God." There is need of patience, but there is ground for hope. The Lord cannot but avenge his own elect. The heavenly Father will not stand by and see his children trampled on for ever; as surely as the sun is in the heavens, light must arise for the people of God, though for awhile they may walk in darkness. Why, then, should we not be encouraged, and lift up our head with comfortable hope? "For I shall yet praise him." Times of complaint will soon end, and seasons of praise will begin. Come, my heart, look out of the window, borrow the telescopic glass, forecast a little, and sweeten thy chamber with sprigs of the sweet herb of hope. "Who is the health of my countenance, and my God." My God will clear the furrows from my brow, and the tear marks from my cheek; therefore will I lift up my head and smile in the face of the storm. The Psalm has a blessed ending, such as we would fain imitate when death puts an end to our mortal existence. Treasury of David

Wait (v)
1. to remain inactive or in a state of repose, as until something expected happens
2. (of things) to be available or in readiness.
3. to remain neglected for a time.
4. to postpone or delay something or to be postponed or delayed.
5. to look forward to eagerly.

I find the definition of “wait” interesting. Remain in active until something expected happens. Yet, it also means look forward to eagerly. and in the middle.... remain neglected for a time. 

Yet, each aspect of the definition describes and “end” to the wait. It’s not an eternity.... although sometimes the wait can seem like that. 

Often as I’m in waiting mode, my focus changes from God and what He is doing to what can I do to hurry things along! I’m not a good waiter, as I’ve said before. But I’m trying to not waste the waiting time. One of the definitions for wait, says to remain inactive. As I read that I thought two things: 1) what a waste of time, I can get so much done! 2) Be Still and know that I am God. 

How many times during the waiting times, am I trying to hurry God along, or figure things out on my own, or get so busy doing things so I lose focus on the “waiting on God and being still getting to know God”? 

To create a positive day, I need to remember that while waiting, I need to be still and get to know my God better! 

Soaking in His Light

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 4. Here is what I learned.

Many say, Oh, that we might see some good! Lift up the light of Your countenance upon us, O Lord. Psalm 4:6 (AMP)

Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us. Psalm 4:6 (NIV)

Crowds of disheartened people ask, “Who can show us what is good?” Let Your brilliant face shine upon us, O Eternal One, that we may know the undeniable answer. Psalm 4:6 (VOICE)

If I’m in the living room, and it gets dark, I do not turn on the bedroom light. Turning on a light in another room, does not make the darkness disappear in another room. 

The same concept is true if I want God’s blessing on my life. If I want the light of God’s face to shine on me, then I must be near Him. I can’t be off on my own “in another room” doing my own thing. I must be in the presence of God to enjoy the light He provides. 

How often do I spend time in the dark, simply because I do not want to obey God? How many times do I complain to God that I’m “in the dark”, but I’m not willing to move to allow Him to shine His grace and mercy on me? 

Lord, let the light of your face shine on me.... and direct me to Your presence so that I can be bathed in Your light of grace and mercy. 

To create a positive day, I need to move out of the dark, and spend time in God’s presence soaking in His light of grace. 

Remember ‘My Place’

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 67. Here is what I learned.

God be merciful and gracious to us and bless us and cause His face to shine upon us and among us—Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! Psalm 67:1 (AMP)

God, mark us with grace and blessing! Smile! Psalm 67:1 (MSG)

Gracious: compassionate, good-hearted, loving, merciful, kindness, and generosity of spirit, responsive, right, righteous, thoughtful.

So often we think we deserve something from God. We often ‘demand’ things or try to bargin with God. “God, if you do ..................., then I’ll do ................” But God is not one to make bargins nor does He need to listen to any of our demands. 

God is gracious, but that does not mean that He will give us everything we think we deserve or want. For in reality if God gave us what we really deserved, that would be eternity in Hell, separated from a Holy God.

However, God graciously provided His Son as a sacrifice to pay the debt we owe for our sin. Only, by accepting that substitute can we have access to God’s grace and mercy. 

God be merifcul and gracious to us. He has been.... and abundantly so... simply in the way He demonstrated His love toward us. 

To create a positive day, I need to remember ‘my place’ and be grateful for God’s mercy and grace. 

The Noisy Storm

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 92. Here is what I learned.

My eye looks upon those who lie in wait for me; my ears hear the evildoers that rise up against me. Psalm 92:11 (AMP)

When ·I [my eyes] looked, I saw my enemies; I heard the cries of those who ·are against me [rose against me with evil; [he sees and hears the defeat of his enemies]. Psalm 92:11 (EXB)

Where is my focus? Where am I looking? To what am I listening? What I focus on will have a direct impact on my thoughts, actions, attitude. Am I focusing on my enemies and what is happening to them and what they are trying to do to me? Am I listening to their banter and allowing what I hear to impact my faith and trust in God? 

As I read this verse I thought of Peter when the Lord invited him to walk on the water. Peter did fine...until he took his eyes off the Lord and listened to the storm. 

Peter said, “Lord, if it is really you, then ·command [tell] me to come to you on the water.”Jesus said, “Come.” And Peter left the boat and walked on the water ·to [and came toward] Jesus.  But when Peter saw the wind, he became ·afraid [terrified] and began to sink. He shouted, “Lord, save me!” Matthew 14:28-30 (EXB)

Just because there are those who would like to see me fail and have me doubt God, doesn’t mean I have to listen to them—let alone allow them to change my focus to from God to the noisy storm. Focus. Where am I directing my focus? Do I allow the noisy storm raging around me to distract me from God and His purpose? 

To create a positive day I must not be distracted by the noisy storm that my enemies create, rather, I need to remain focused on God and what He is doing! 

A Really Amazing Hug!

"The truth, which lives faithfully within all of us and will be with us for all eternity, is the basis for our abounding love. May grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Jesus the Anointed, the Father’s own Son, surround you and be with you always in truth and love." 2 John 1:2-3 (VOICE)

Abounding Love based on the Truth! And you are surrounded by God's own Truth and Love everywhere you go. Just think of it.... that's a really amazing HUG!

No Regrets!

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 91. Here is what I learned.

With long life will I satisfy him and show him My salvation. Psalm 91:16 (AMP)

I will satisfy you with a long life. I will show you how I will save you. Psalm 91:16 (GW)

"With long life will I satisfy him." The man described in this Psalm fills out the measure of his days, and whether he dies young or old he is quite satisfied with life, and is content to leave it. He shall rise from life's banquet as a man who has had enough, and would not have more even if he could. "And shew him my salvation." The full sight of divine grace shall be his closing vision. He shall look from Amana and Lebanon. Not with destruction before him black as night, but with salvation bright as noonday smiling upon him he shall enter into his rest. Treasury of David

I read an article the other day about interviews of regrets people had as they knew they had a short time to live. The top 5 regrets are:

5. I wish that I had let myself be happier.

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.

3. I wish I'd had the courage to express my feelings.

2. I wish I hadn't worked so hard.

1. I wish I'd had the courage to live a life true to myself,

not the life others expected of me.

(Bronnie Ware, The Guardian February 1, 2012)

I find it interesting that no-one said that they’d would have loved God more, or served Him more. The regrets listed were all about “me, myself, and I”. Rather than a focus on what matters in light of eternity!

Don’t you realize that everyone who runs in a race runs to win, but only one runner gets the prize? Run like them, so that you can win. Everyone who enters an athletic contest goes into strict training. They do it to win a temporary crown, but we do it to win one that will be permanent. So I run—but not without a clear goal ahead of me. So I box—but not as if I were just shadow boxing. Rather, I toughen my body with punches and make it my slave so that I will not be disqualified after I have spread the Good News to others. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (GW).

A truly satisfied life is one that has an eternal purpose—and that is living a life loving and obeying God. 

To create a positive day, I need to make sure I live my life so that I have no regrets—according to God’s standards! 

Protective Shadow

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 121. Here is what I learned.

The Eternal keeps you safe, so close to Him that His shadow is a cooling shade to you. Psalm 121:5 (VOICE)

The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. Psalm 121:5 (NLT)

Protective Shade. Shadow. As I thought about a shadow... you need light for a shadow to appear. The Lord Himself is the LIGHT and I can take comfort that He is close enough so that His shadow protects me. 

Another thing about a shadow.. is that if the light is strong enough the shadow can be HUGE! That’s a great reminder that not only is God the source of Light—so the light is extremely strong— but He is larger than any problem or trouble I may have! His protection covers me in ways I could never imagine. 

To create a positive day, I only need to look for God’s protective shadow and realize that God is right beside me! 

Create a New Song... and Sing It!

O sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth! Psalm 96:1 (AMP)

Sing to the Lord a new song [celebrating victory]; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Psalm 96:1 (EXB)

A new song. Do I have a new song to sing? What was I singing? 

A new song. Our old songs were those of pride, of gluttony, of luxury, in hope of gain, prosperity, or harm to others; our "new song" is of praise, reverence, and obedience, and love to God, in newness of life, in the Spirit that quickeneth, no longer in the letter that killeth, but keepeth that new commandment, that we love one another, not with the narrow patriotism and fellow feeling of a small tribe, or a mere national church, but with a citizenship which embraces all the whole earth. Neale and Littledale

I like a variety of music. And I usually have music on most of the time. As I read Psalm 96:1, I had to think about the songs I’ve been singing. Have they been songs of praise to God? Or are they simply filled with “me, myself, and I”? Am I singing songs of thanksgiving? Or songs of complaints?  Am I singing songs of joy? Or of misery? 

Music as an effect on our attitudes, emotions, and mind-set. Some songs make us smile, others make us cry. Since songs have such an affect on us, then I need to make a determined effort to be singing songs of praise to God. 

To create a positive day, I need to create a new song of praise and thankfulness to God, and then be sure to sing it.