Psalm - Psalm 1

It's been a while since I've posted on the blog. I've been posting on Facebook, and sorry to say, I've forgotten to post the information here. 

Today, I'm starting a new Bible Study. I'm going to pick out one verse from each Psalm on which to focus. 

Psalm 1

Psalm 1:2But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.

Delight: things desired, purpose
Meditates: to ponder, contemplate, talk it over with oneself

But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law [His precepts and teachings] he [habitually] meditates day and night. Psalm 1:2 (AMP)

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)

I like that word in the Amplified Version - Habitually. It's important to create a habit of thinking about God's Word. If I habitually ponder what God's Word has to say, the greater impact it will have in my life. 

Psalm 1:2 - Habitually Meditate! 

Study of Psalm 119. Psalm 119:13

This continues the study of Psalm 119.  (Start the series here: http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2017/09/study-of-psalm-119-psalm-1191.html)

God Provides (by Rhonda Sawtelle)
Psalm 119: God's Word....

vs. 13: Provides Conversation

With my lips I have declared all the judgments of Your mouth. Psalm 119:13

With my lips: language, speech

Have declared: recount something, to score with a mark as a tally or record

All: the whole, any and every

Judgments: after the manner, custom, fashion — rightful due

Of Your mouth: according as after, speech

What do I talk about? Lately we've heard much talk about Hurricanes. How strong will they be? What path will they take? No one really knows until it actually arrives. But our conversations and actions were filled with Hurricane preparedness and "what ifs". 

What do I talk about? No matter the topic, my conversation should reflect what I believe about God. The particular words I choose, my intent, and emotion of how those were are spoken, should reflect God and His mercy and grace. 

But in order for me to have God's Word impact my conversation, I must know God's Word. 

What impacts my conversation? 

What does God prefer?

As I was studying Galatians 5:22, 23, I decided to see what other verses used the same words.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV)

Back to "Love". Love, what God prefers. 

As I started thinking about WHAT GOD PREFERS, I had to stop and really think about what I know about God, and what I know God's Word says. 

This love is not a feeling that changes with the seasons. God does not change. He is holy. He is just. He is righteous. What God prefers is not something that I can change because I want to justify my actions, attitude, or what I want in life. What God prefers, is based on God Himself. 

First and foremost, I need to make sure that I am setting the standard for my life based on "what God prefers".  That means, that I have to filter what the World tells me is ok, through God's Word. Looking at our Nation and what is "acceptable" in lifestyles, dress, conduct, music, actions, attitude, mind-sets — one can clearly see that we have left God out of our decision making. 

What God prefers is not a suggestion of conduct. No, what God prefers is the solid foundation on which our lives should be built. What God prefers is steadfast, unchangeable, and truth. 

What God prefers. What does God prefer? Here are two verses the immediately come to mind. 

"He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6:8  

These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: a proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren. Proverbs 6:16-19

What God prefers. That should impact every aspect of my heart, mind and soul. Am I choosing "what God prefers"? 

Proverbs 12:8 Celebration or Contempt

A man will be commended according to his wisdom, but he who is of a perverse heart will be despised. Proverbs 12:8

Commended: to shine, celebrate

According to: in such proportion

Wisdom: insight, understanding

Perverse: one perverted of mind, commit iniquity, do wickedly, do wrong

Heart: inner man, desire, motive, thoughts, will

Despised: contempt, shamed, disrespect 

It will happen—the question is which will it be—Celebration or Contempt? 

The media often shows the faces of those who commit crimes. Sometimes to help locate the individual, other times to shame them, and other times just because it's news. A local Law Enforcement agency posts a "Wall of Shame" each month of those caught shop lifting. Often I wonder to those people care that they are now known for their perverse action? Do they care about the embarrassment they are to their family? Do they even realize the contempt they've brought to themselves? 

Commended according to his wisdom. 

I'd rather that a picture of me would be cause to celebrate and bring blessing to others. And more importantly, that I'd be a blessing to God as He watches what I do. 

If I want to be cause for celebration, then my heart must be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. And the more I respect and fear God, the more my heart will want to learn wisdom, and then allow wisdom to impact my heart and life. 

Celebration or Contempt. Which does your picture inspire? 

Patsy Clairmont posted this quote the other day: "When I think of certain people everything in me smiles. I want to be that kind of person for others, don't you?" 

That sums up Proverbs 12:8 pretty well. 

Proverbs 4:3, 4: Influence

When I was my father’s son, tender and the only one in the sight of my mother, He also taught me, and said to me: “Let your heart retain my words; keep my commands, and live. Proverbs 4:3, 4

Heart: mind will, heart, from influence of 

Retain: hold, keep, hold firmly

Keep: observe = follow dictates of prudence, justice, kindness, wisdom

Commands: code of wisdom

Live: continue in life, remain alive

Influence. What makes us act, speak, think the way we do. We are all influenced by something or someone. And that influence impacts our life. 

When wisdom influences then the result is positive. However, in order for wisdom to be able to influence, the words, and code of wisdom must be known and held onto firmly. For what we don't know can't influence us. 

Influence. Impact. Predominance. What will control my thoughts, my actions, my attitude, my motives? If I want wisdom to have the greatest influence, then I had better grasp it and hold firmly to wisdom.

The only way for a heart to truly be influenced by wisdom, is of it to be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). For a heart that respects and fears God, will be ready to hear and be influenced by wisdom.

Impact for Eternity!

Impact for Eternity!

Ruth 4:13-22

"The passage is given by Matthew word for word in the genealogy of Christ, that we may see that this history looks not so much to David as to Jesus Christ, who was proclaimed by all as the Saviour and Redeemer of the human race, and that we may learn with what wonderful compassion the Lord raises up the lowly and despised to the greatest glory and majesty" (Brentius).

Keil & Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament

As I read the conclusion to the Book of Ruth, I had to stop and think of the importance of Ruth and all that took place to get her where she needed to be to fully accomplish God's plan. 

I also think of Ruth's willingness to do the "right thing" and do it well, not even knowing the full significants her actions. Reminds me of others throughout Scripture that God used because they where willing to do the "right thing". 

As I look back over my life, I think of all God has done, and the people He used to supply my needs, bless me, and encourage me. People who were willing to do the right thing—the God honoring way—put themselves in the position to not only bless others, but to be used by God to fulfill His purpose and plan. 

Another aspect of doing the right thing, is that often we don't see the ripple effects it has on others or in years to come. There were many generations and years between the birth of Obed and the birth of Jesus Christ. God was able to use Ruth to accomplish His will over many generations. That's the exciting aspect of doing the right thing—the God honoring way. One can have an impact for eternity! 

When my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), it makes me wiling and able to do the right thing—the God honoring way, and then in turn, bless others and have an impact for eternity! 

Impact

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

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This post is the beginning of my study of Ruth.

The book of Ruth begins with background and introduction. The background is there was a famine so Elimelech took his family to Moab, where there was food.

Let's take a look at the people involved:

Elimelech - means "That is, God is my king"; the Dad

Naomi - means "Beautiful", the Mom (Mother-in-law)

Mahlon - means "Infirmity', son 1

Chilion - means "Finished", son 2

Orpah - means "fawn", a Moabitess, the wife of Chilion 

Ruth - means "friend", a Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon

We learn in Ruth 1:3, that Elimelech dies and leaves Naomi a widow raising two sons. We then learn that the sons marry Moabite women in Ruth 1:4. Then in Ruth 1:5, both Mahlon and Chilion die. 

Now we have three widows and Naomi hears that God is once again blessing the land of Israel and wants to return home. She tells her daughter-in-laws for them to return to their families, as she will go back home. Oprah, finally agrees and returns to her family. Ruth, however, decides to stay with Naomi and "Your people shall be my people and your God my God." (Ruth 1:7-16)

So Naomi and Ruth set out to return to Bethlehem, to the home of Naomi (Ruth 1:19). 

I wonder what Naomi and Ruth talked about on that journey. Years before Naomi left Bethlehem to travel to Moab. Did Naomi share how she felt when traveling to a strange place? Did Naomi talk about home and the people and places she missed? Did Naomi talk more about God and the love for His people, the Israelites? 

From what we read, Ruth saw something in Naomi during the time in Moab, that made Ruth wiling to leave a place she knew well and give up the idols and family and travel to an unknown—where she would be an "outsider". 

I can't help but think of the testimony and influence Naomi must have had in Ruth's life. It must have been a powerful impact for Ruth to want to follow Naomi and create a new life in a foreign land. 

Makes me think of the impact I have in the lives of those around me. Am I showing God in a "good light" so that others will want to have the relationship with God that I have? 

If I do want to have a good impact in the lives of others, it all begins with a heart permeated with a deep sense reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). 

Description

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing

Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.    

And with [him is] Onesimus, [our] faithful and beloved brother, who is [one] of yourselves. They will let you know everything that has taken place here [in Rome].

Aristarchus my fellow prisoner wishes to be remembered to you, as does Mark the relative of Barnabas. You received instructions concerning him; if he comes to you give him a [hearty] welcome.

And [greetings also from] Jesus, who is called Justus. These [Hebrew Christians] alone of the circumcision are among my fellow workers for [the extension of] God’s kingdom, and they have proved a relief and a comfort to me. Colossians 4:9-11 (AMP)

Paul continues with a list of friends and how they encourage and minister to him. The descriptions he uses are evident of each man living a God-honoring life. 

If someone was writing about me, what characteristics would they use? How would they describe me? Could they say that I'm faithful? Should others embrace me and welcome me, because I am living a God-honoring life? Do I encourage and comfort others? 

More importantly, if God was writing about me, what would He say? I wrote about this on Colossians 1:7, "What would be written about me?". 

Living a life that is godly is not only God-honoring, but has an impact on those around us. We are to be encouraging other believers, comforting them, and interacting with them. Just as we do this for believers, we are also to be doing it for unbelievers, so that they can see the love of God. 

Only when my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God, will my life be described as faithful, encouraging, and God-honoring. 

Personal Ultimate Relationship

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing

Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.   

Knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [real] reward. [The One Whom] you are actually serving [is] the Lord Christ (the Messiah). Colossians 3:24 (AMP)

Ye shall receive: to get back, to recover.
The full recompense: Given back in return.
Ye serve the Lord Christ: As his slaves and gladly so, keep on serving.
Robertson's Word Pictures of the New Testament

Verse 24 is a continuation of the relationship between Servant and Master in verse 23. Fulfilling responsibilities cheerfully and to the very best of ones ability because the work is being done for God. 

In turn, because the Servants referred to in this verse are Christians, they know that they have an eternal inheritance awaiting them. They may not get paid their just due while working on earth, but none-the-less, they are to continue serving and be the BEST servants because of whom they belong to—God, Himself. 

The truth of this verse is also applicable to all believers. No matter what we do, or for who on earth we do it for, we are to go our utmost best — not for the earthy reward, but because we have a great reward — given to us by grace — eternal salvation! 

How does this impact me on a daily basis? Colossians 3:18-24 have been dealing with relationships. Each individual we come in contact with, we have a responsibility to treat with respect and love. And that is because of all that we have "put on" (Colossians 3:10-17). 

Our relationship should be different, because we have the ultimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Our lives should be different than the unbelievers around us. That does not mean that we walk around with our noses in the air—we are not 'better' than they are—we are sinners BUT, we've been saved by grace! And our relationship with Christ, should impact all we do, say,  and think. 

They only way for me to have relationships with others that is godly, is to be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). My personal ultimate relationship with God starts with knowing Him, and then changing my thoughts, words, and actions to be in accordance with Him and His Word. 

My Whole Life

  If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing

Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all. 

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

 This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians. 

When Christ, Who is our life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in [the splendor of His] glory. Colossians 3:4 (AMP)

As I read this verse, I first had to ask the question, "Is Christ REALLY my life?" Looking back over the previous verses, He should be. But is He—really?

Christ is returning. And when He does, I will be overwhelmed with His glory and honor. But am I, RIGHT NOW, overwhelmed with His glory and honor?

Think about it this way: In the presence of certain people we act a certain way. For example, when we see a police car driving behind us, we immediately take our foot off the gas and check the speedometer. The presence of that police car, makes us more aware of what we are doing, and if we are breaking the law by speeding.
The fact that Christ is ever-present, should have a constant impact on my thoughts, actions, words, motives—all aspects of my life.

Christ, who is our life. Because of Who Christ is. Because of all He's done. Because of His love for me. I should want Him to be my whole life.

Only when I am permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31; MSG), will Christ be my whole life. 

Grace of God

Something to meditate on today: 'to know the grace or undeserved favor of God in reality, deeply and clearly and thoroughly, becoming accurately and intimately acquainted with it.'

"Which has come to you. Indeed, in the whole world [that Gospel] is bearing fruit and still is growing [a][by its own inherent power], even as it has done among yourselves ever since the day you first heard and came to know and understand the grace of God in truth. [You came to know the grace or undeserved favor of God in reality, deeply and clearly and thoroughly, becoming accurately and intimately acquainted with it.]" Colossians 1:6 (AMP)

How would my life be impacted if I truly came to know the Grace of God... in REALITY... Deeply, clearly and throughly becoming accurately and INTIMATELY acquainted with it! 

That is my prayer today.... I want to know the Grace of God... accurately and be intimately acquainted with it! Wow!

Forgiveness

cont..."a deep sense of reverence for God" (Act 9:31). 

"But there is forgiveness with You [just what man needs], that You may be reverently feared and worshiped." Psalm 130:4 (AMP)

I don't fully grasp the concept that Holy, God Almighty offers forgiveness... but I'm VERY thankful that He does. And because God Almighty does forgive, that should instill in me a deep sense of reverence for God. For the consequence of not being forgiven of my sin is eternal hell and separation from God. 

How does one say "thank you" to a Holy God for His gift of salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ? The "thank you" starts with developing a deep sense of reverence for God! And as that deep sense of reverence is developed..... my life will be impacted by the realization that God Almighty loves me and has forgiven me.... WOW, if that doesn't make your day..... not sure what will. 

Thank you, Heavenly Father for your forgiveness!

Reverence

They were permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God. Acts 9:31 (MSG)

When the ·holy ones [ council of holy ones] meet, it is God they fear. He is more ·frightening [awesome] than all who surround him.  Psalm 89:7 (EXB)

A God greatly feared and revered in the council of the holy (angelic) ones, and to be feared and worshipfully revered above all those who are round about Him?  Psalm 89:7 (AMP)

In the council of holy ones, God is lifted high and feared; His presence overwhelms all who are near Him. Psalm 89:7 (VOICE)

I'm studying Colossians, but went off on a "rabbit trail"... and then that led to another trail.... It started with "Paul, have been sent on special assignment by Christ as part of God’s master plan." Col 1:1 (MSG). 

I wanted to study more about when God's special assignment began for Paul, so went back to Acts 9. 

Acts 9:31 stopped me.... as I read "they were permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God". 

What does it mean to have a sense of reverence for God? So, I went back to the Psalms to read about reverence for Almighty God. 

Today, I read Psalm 89. I like how Ps 89:7 reads in the Message, "His presence overwhelms all who are near Him". 

First off, am I near God? Is my heart pliable in God's hands? Am I listening to Him? And if I'm near to God, am I overwhelmed by the presence of God? 

God is to be greatly feared... He is more frightening (awesome) than any other. Do I revere God? He is God Almighty. He is a Holy God. Revering God......how is it impacting my life? 

I'm also humbly grateful that I can come boldly before the Throne of Grace to talk with my Heavenly Father. 

Permeated with deep sense of reverence for God........ my prayer is that this truth would be true of me... and that I'd live it each day. 

Everywhere—All the Time

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.

I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Psalm 16:8 (AMP)

He is ever present with me; at all times He goes before me. I will not live in fear or abandon my calling because He stands at my right hand. Psalm 16:8 (VOICE)

I am always aware of the Lord's presence; he is near, and nothing can shake me. Psalm 16:8 (GNT)

"I have set the Lord always before me." David did not by fits and starts set the Lord before him; but he "always" set the Lord before him in his course; he had his eye upon the Lord, and so much the Hebrew word imports: I have equally set the Lord before me; that is the force of the original word, that is, I have set the Lord before me, at one time as well as another, without any irregular affections or passions, etc. In every place, in every condition, in every company, in every employment, and in every enjoyment, I have set the Lord equally before me; and this raised him, and this will raise any Christian, by degrees, to a very great height of holiness. Thomas Brooks

In every place, in every condition, in every company, in every employment, and in every enjoyment........Everywhere—all the time. God is with me, it’s up to me to acknowledge that fact and act in accordance with that fact. 

When I was younger, and I’d ask my parents if I could do something, they’d ask me a question. “Would you want to take Jesus with you?” The concept made me think. That’s the very concept of Psalm 16:8. God IS with me, but does that fact have an impact on my actions, attitudes and words? 

God is everywhere—all the time, and is with me and to create a positive day, I must allow that fact to impact me.

Everywhereness

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.

God has risen with a shout of joy; the Lord has risen ·as the trumpets sounded [with the sound of the ram’s horn]. Psalm 47:5 (EXB)

God goes up to his throne. There are shouts of joy and the blast of trumpets, as the Lord goes up. Psalm 47:5 (GNT)

The Lord with the sound of a trumpet - Yahweh, accompanied with the notes of victory. All this is designed to denote triumph, and to show that the victory was to be traced solely to God. Barnes' Notes on the Bible 

In short, the import of the Psalmist's language is, When the trumpets sounded among the Jews, according to the appointment of the Law, that was not a mere empty sound which vanished away in the air; for God, who intended the ark of the covenant to be a pledge and token of his presence, truly presided in that assembly. From this the prophet draws an argument for enforcing on the faithful the duty of singing praises to God He argues, that by engaging in this exercise they will not be acting blindly or at random, as the superstitious, who, having no certainty in their false systems of religion, lament and howl in vain before their idols. He shows that the faithful have just ground for celebrating with their mouths and with a cheerful heart the praises of God; since they certainly know that he is as present with them, as if he had visibly established his royal throne among them. Calvin's Commentary

God is present.  

Present: being, companionship, company, existence, habitation, inhabitance, latency, occupation, omnipresence, potentiality, residence, subsistence, ubiety, ubiquity, whereabouts, closeness, vicinity, immediate circle, nearness.

Ubiquity: all-presence, everywhereness.

I like that word, “everywhereness”. That describes God. He is everywhere—but very close by! The fact that God Almighty is present, should impact my life in several ways. 1. I can take great comfort knowing that God is near. 2. My actions, attitude, and what I articulate should reflect that God is present. 3. Peace should overwhelm me, knowing that God is near and in control. I am not alone. 

To create a positive day, is very doable, if I only remember the “everywhereness” of God!

Fruit Producer

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.

He is like a tree planted beside streams— a tree that produces fruit in season and whose leaves do not wither. He succeeds in everything he does. Psalm 1:3 (GW)

And he shall be like a tree planted by the streams of water, That bringeth forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also doth not wither; And whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psalm 1:3 (ASV)

He is "like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season;" not unseasonable graces, like untimely figs, which are never full-flavoured. But the man who delights in God's Word, being taught by it, bringeth forth patience in the time of suffering, faith in the day of trial, and holy joy in the hour of prosperity. Fruitfulness is an essential quality of: a gracious man, and that fruitfulness should be seasonable.

But to the eye of faith this word is sure, and by it we perceive that our works are prospered, even when everything seems to go against us. It is not outward prosperity which the Christian most desires and values; it is soul prosperity which he longs for.  The trials of the saint are a divine husbandry, by which he grows and brings forth abundant fruit. The Treasury of David

As I read Psalm 1:3 this morning, the phrase, “produces fruit”, I had to stop and think... Am I producing fruit? If so, what kind? As I asked myself these questions, Galatians 5:22, 23 came to mind. 

The Holy Spirit produces a different kind of fruit: unconditional love, joy, peace, patience, kindheartedness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. You won’t find any law opposed to fruit like this. Galatians 5:22, 23 (VOICE)

But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. Galatians 5:22, 23 (MSG)

So, am I a fruit producer? Am I allowing the Holy Spirit to work in my life, so that I can produce fruit? Or am I just a tree that grows leaves and “looks pretty”? 

The only way to be a fruit producer is to study God’s Word and allow it to impact my life. To create a positive day, I need to be a fruit producer. 

More Apt

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 28. Here is what I learned.

Because they regard not the works of the Lord nor the operations of His hands, He will break them down and not rebuild them. Psalm 28:5 (AMP)

Because these are people who have no respect for You, O Eternal, they ignore everything You have done. So He will tear them down with His powerful hands; never will they be built again. Psalm 28:5 (VOICE)

Because they have no idea how God works or what he is up to, God will smash them to smithereens and walk away from the ruins. Psalm 28:5 (MSG)

Regard: verb
1. to look upon or think of with a particular feeling: to regard a person with favor.
2. to have or show respect or concern for.
3. to think highly of; esteem.
4. to take into account; consider.
5. to look at; observe.

How often do I ignore what God is doing? Worst yet, how often do I ignore God altogether? That may seem like a harsh statement. But think about it. Each time I don’t trust God in what He is doing, each time I sin, each time I don’t give God glory...... each time..... ignoring God has consequences. 

Instead of ignoring God, I am to consider, contemplate, take notice. I’m to have respect for Him and what He is doing. If I’m respecting God and what He is doing, I am more apt to resist temptation to sin, I am more apt to trust God in all situations, and I’m more apt to give Him glory.

Ignore God or contemplate God. Both have consequences. Both will have an impact in my life. Both will cause me to react to my circumstances. The choice comes down to which consequence, impact and reaction do I want? I’d have to say that I’m more apt to be happier with the consequences, impact and reaction resulting from contemplating God! 

More apt...a tendency toward contemplating God will result in trusting, obeying, and rejoicing in who God is and what He is doing. 

To create a positive day, I need to make sure I’m “more apt” to contemplate God and what He is doing

My God!

Throughout this year, each day of the month, I'm "Treasure Hunting" in a Psalm. I've created a "Ponder Every Morsel of Truth" Book to record the truths as I learn them. The twenty-ninth of each month, I'm studying Psalm 91. Here's what Treasure I found today.

I will say to the Lord, “You are my ·place of safety [refuge] and ·protection [fortress]. You are my God and I ·trust [have confidence in] you.” Psalm 91:2 (EXB)

This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. Psalm 91:2 (NLT)

I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust! Psalm 91:2 (AMP)

"My refuge, my fortress, my God." "My refuge." God is our "refuge." He who avails himself of a refuge is one who is forced to fly. It is a quiet retreat from a pursuing enemy. And there are trials, and temptations, and enemies, from which the Christian does best to fly. He cannot resist them. They are too strong for him. His wisdom is to fly into the refuge of the secret place of his God - to rest in the shadow of the Almighty. His "strength is to sit still" there. Isaiah 30:7. "My fortress." The Psalmist says, moreover, that God is his "fortress." Here - the idea is changed - no longer a peaceful, quiet hiding-place, but a tower of defence - strong, manifest, ready to meet the attacks of all enemies, ready and able to resist them all. God is a Friend who meets every want in our nature, who can supply every need. So when we are weak and fainting, and unable to meet the brunt of battle, and striving against sin and sorrow and the wrath of man, he is our safe, quiet resting-place - our fortress also where no harm can reach us, no attack injure us. "My God." Now the Psalmist, as a summing up of all his praises, says "I will say of him, He is ... my God!" Is there anything omitted in the former part of his declaration? Everything is here - all possible ascription Of honour, and glory, and power to him "as God" - "God over all, blessed for ever," and of love, reverence, trust, obedience, and filial relation towards him on the part of the Psalmist, as My God ... when reflecting on the refuge and strength which the Lord has always been to him, and recalling his blessed experiences of sweet communion with God - words fail him. He can only say (but oh, with what expression!) My God! Mary B. M. Duncan 

As if it were not enough to call the Lord his refuge and fortress, he adds, "My God I in him will I trust." Now he can say no more; "my God" means all, and more than all, that heart can conceive by way of security. It was most meet that he should say "in him will I trust," since to deny faith to such a one were wilful wickedness and wanton insult. He who dwells in an impregnable fortress, naturally trusts in it; and shall not he who dwells in God feel himself well at ease, and repose his soul in safety? O that we more fully carried out the Psalmist's resolve! We have trusted in God let us trust him still. He has never failed us, why then should we suspect him? To trust in man is natural to fallen nature, to trust in God should be as natural to regenerated nature. Where there is every reason and warrant for faith, we ought to place our confidence without hesitancy or wavering. Dear reader, pray for grace to say, "In him will I trust." The Treasury of David

My God. Since He really is MY God, that fact should impact my life in an amazing way. My God, means a personal, real, intimate relationship with God Almighty. And if the fact that He is “My God” isn’t impacting my life, than I have a problem. The problem with not fully realizing that God is “My God”, is that I think I’m not only in control of my life, but that I can “do it alone”, and therefore, I ignore God’s direction. When I ignore God and head out on my own, I usually find myself floundering, and wondering how I got into the mess I find myself.

“My God” is more than just a “place” to run and hide when I’m afraid, but “My God” is a companion Who wants to be a part of my life—each and every day. “My God” is not a saying, or feeling, rather “My God” is a personal relationship with the Almighty Creator, who I should not only respect, but love and obey and realize that He is “mine”. My God, is worthy of honor, glory, praise, and trust.

To create a positive day, the fact that God is really “My God” needs to impact my life—He wants to be a part of my day, it’s up to me whether I truly allow Him to be “My God”. 

On My Mind

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.

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)

Delight: delightsome, desire, purpose, a valuable thing, things desired.

Laws: of codes of law, instructions, teachings.

Meditate: soliloquize, to ponder -- imagine, study. 

Day: daily, in the daytime.

Night: literally night, opposed to day.

In late 2012, I thought that I needed to do more meditating. That is I’m creating this Ponder of Morsels Book. “I ponder every morsel of wisdom from you.” Psalm 119:15 (MSG).

On January 1, 2013, as I started studying the 31 Psalms I had picked, I wondered if my study would have an impact in my life. Would I really mediate on the truth I found each day? Would my Ponder Morsel be in my thoughts?  The answer is YES! God has shown me that He has much to teach me and I’m enjoying focusing my thoughts on His truth. 

It’s exciting to see what God wants to teach me each day and what morsel of truth, I can think on throughout my day..... and night. 

Psalm 1:2 discusses meditating on God’s teaching day and night. In order to meditate, one first has to study the learn God’s instruction. The idea of “day and night” means continually. That does not mean that I don’t think of other things. Rather, it means that as I go about my day, and wake up at night, the Ponder Morsel is “on my mind”. 

On my mind. There are  songs that “get stuck in our heads” and we can’t seem to get them off our mind... example “It’s a Small World” or “The Song that Never Ends”. Have you ever loved someone so much that he/she seems to be always on your mind? That is the concept meditating day and night. God’s truth is ever present. And not only is God’s truth always on my mind—it should have an impact on my thoughts, actions and attitude. 

For example, I woke up many times last night, and was starting to focus on the pain and getting very frustrated that I could not get comfortable. But my Ponder Morsel for yesterday was “peace in the midst of pain”. As I started focusing on all that God had done for me, His love and care, and His goodness, I found that I was overwhelmed with peace. As my focus changed from the pain to God, that allowed my mind and soul to realize God’s peace. The pain remained, but the frustration and worry was erased. When the soul is at peace, the body can relax and my mind is no longer racing with thoughts of pain and agony. 

I have also found myself thinking of past Ponder Morsels as I go about daily routines. I’ll do something, or hear a song, and it reminds me of a truth.  This is what Psalm 1:2 is teaching. When I study God’s Word and take the time to think on it, the truth will have an impact in my life. 

Ponder Morsels are not just cute sayings, or stories, rather they are morsels, tidbits, of God’s truth. When I have a desire to study God’s truth, and ponder it continually, it can have an impact on my life. To create a positive day, God’s truth must always be..... on my mind. 

Impact.

Throughout this year, each day of the month, I'm "Treasure Hunting" in a Psalm. I've created a "Ponder Every Morsel of Truth" Book to record the truths as I learn them. The seventh of each month, I'm studying Psalm 47. Here's what Treasure I found today.

The nobles of the nations assemble as the people of the God of Abraham, for the kings of the earth belong to God; he is greatly exalted. Psalm 47:9 (NIV)

The ·leaders [princes] of the ·nations [or armies] ·meet [gather together] with the ·people [or army] of the God of Abraham, because the ·leaders [shields; military leaders] of the earth belong to God. He is ·supreme [highly exalted]. Psalm 47:9 (EXB)

Highly: diligently, especially, exceedingly, far, fast, good, greatly, louder and louder, muchness, force, abundance.

Exalted: arise up, cause to ascend up.

He is greatly exalted - That is, one who can thus subdue nations, and lead along captive princes and warriors, "must" be a Being greatly exalted; a Being that has dominion over the nations of the earth. This completes the imagery in the psalm, and gives occasion for the shouts and the joys of triumph. God had shown that he was a great King over the earth. Princes and armies were subdued to his will. They were led along as captives, and were gathered together to the people of God, as if to acknowledge their own inferiority; and in this solemn manner the nations thus subdued owned Yahweh to be the true God. In a higher sense this will be true when all the earth shall be subdued by the power of truth, and when kings, and princes, and people everywhere shall come and acknowledge God, reigning through the Messiah, to be the King of all nations. Barnes' Notes on the Bible

God is Supreme.

Rhonda Sawtelle 

God is supreme.

Then why do I doubt Him?

God is supreme.

Then why do I ignore His guidance?

God is supreme. 

Then why do I try to do it alone?

God is supreme.

Then why don’t I trust Him?

God is supreme.

Then why don’t I give Him the respect He deserves?

God is supreme.

Then why don’t I allow Him to have full control in my life?

God is supreme.

Then why don’t I obey Him?

God is supreme.

He knows that I doubt,

yet continues to support me with His love until my doubts subside.

God is supreme.

He knows I ignore His guidance,

yet continues to teach me that His way is the best.

God is supreme.

He knows I’ll try to do it alone,

yet He patiently waits right there beside me to take the lead. 

God is supreme.

He knows that I don’t trust Him,

yet continues to teach me and demonstrate His trustworthiness.

God is supreme.

He knows I don’t show Him proper respect,

yet that doesn’t not mean He’s not worthy!

God is supreme.

He knows I don’t give Him full control,

yet He is waits patiently for me to let go. 

God is supreme.

He knows I fall short on obedience,

yet He is there to correct me and instruct me. 

God is supreme. He is to be highly exalted. 

I need to not only KNOW that God is supreme. but, that truth should effect my actions, attitude, and words. To create a positive day, it is not just KNOWING truth, rather it is allowing the truth to have an IMPACT in my life.