Study of Psalm 119. Psalm 119:22, 23

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. 22, 23: Provides Protection

Remove from me reproach and contempt, for I have kept Your testimonies.
Princes also sit and speak against me, but Your servant meditates on Your statutes. Psalm 119:22, 23

Kept: Guard with fidelity, keep, observe, to guard, to protect, obey
Meditates: to ponder  i.e. (by implication) converse (with oneself, and hence, aloud) or (transitively) utter 

What the princes did or said against him did not divert his mind, or take off his thoughts from the word of God, and the ordinances of it; he thought of them, he spoke and discoursed of them; he declared them — he was not afraid nor ashamed to profess his regard unto them. (John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible)

No matter what others say. No matter what others think. No matter what others may do. No matter — God's word is to be obeyed. 

Study of Psalm 119. Psalm 119:12

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. 12: Provides Instruction

Blessed are You, O Lord! Teach me Your statutes. Psalm 119:12

Blessed: (bless) to kneel as an act of adoration

Lord: A variation of Yhovah (used after 'Adonay, and pronounced by Jews as 'elohiym, in order to prevent the repetition of the same sound, since they elsewhere pronounce Yhovah as 'Adonay) -- God

Teach: diligently, expert, instruct, learn, skillful

Statutes: commandment, decreed, law

What better way to show honor to God, than to learn about Him and learn His Word. We often say we love God, but how to we show God we love Him? Out of a heart of devotion and love of God, our actions should show a true desire to honor Him. 

Teach me. In order to be taught, one must be willing to learn. That means we have to approach God without an agenda of our own. We have to go to God with open minds and hearts to listen and hear, and then put into action what His Word says. 

Teach me, O God — for I am ready and willing to learn. 

Study of Psalm 119. Psalm 119:11

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. 11: Provides Influence

Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. Psalm 119:11

Your word: commandment, speech

Have hidden: by implication, to hoard or reserve

My heart: the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything

That I: to the end intent that

Might Sin: miss the goal or path of right and duty; always against God

Not: most assuredly, no

Good men are afraid of sin, and are in care to prevent it; and the most effectual way to prevent is to hide God's word in our hearts, that we may answer every temptation, as our Master did, with, It is written, may oppose God's precepts to the dominion of sin, his promises to its allurements, and his threatenings to its menaces. (Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on the Bible; Psalm 119:11)

Influence: the capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others. (http://www.dictionary.com/browse/influence?s=t)

Compelling force - on actions, behavior, opinions, etc. What is the compelling force in my life? What drives me to do things? What prevents me from doing things? 

My prayer is that God's Word would be the compelling force that would guide my actions, behavior, options, etc to be God honoring. 

Influence. God's word should have a huge influence on me, each and every day. 

Study of Psalm 119. Psalm 119:10

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. 10: Provides Boundaries

With my whole heart I have sought You; oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Psalm 119:10

With my whole: all, any or every

Heart: the inner man, soul, comprehending mind, affections and will

Have sought You: seek deity in prayer and worship; to follow for pursuit or search the True God

Wander: lead astray, deceive, err

Not: nay, neither, never, no, nor

Your commandments: code of wisdom, ordinance, precept

With all my heart I have sought You, [inquiring of You and longing for You]; do not let me wander from Your commandments [neither through ignorance nor by willful disobedience]. Psalm 119:10 (AMP)

Saturday night I had to take my Dad to the Emergency Room. As the hours dragged on into morning, I went in search of something Mom and I could eat for breakfast. I followed the signs to the Lobby, only to find another sign on the door, "Do not open. Alarm will sound!". Ok, I guess this isn't the way out, EVEN though all the signs point that way. I turned around headed back to the Reception area. I asked for directions and a Nurse kindly led me though some locked doors and the old ER to the lobby area. 
After purchasing some danish and coffee, I headed back following posted signs. Only to find more locked doors. I finally made my way back to the lobby area and went outside and walked to the ER entrance. 

Following signs and directions are only as good as the source. I thought since the signs were posted by the Hospital in the Hospital, they'd be correct. However, since the Emergency Room is a new addition and just opened, all the signage hasn't been changed. 

Thankfully, God's Word is unchangeable. And the source, God Himself, is true and reliable. My only responsibility is to learn and follow God's "signage". 

My prayer is that I would seek God with "ALL of my heart" and stay true to God and His Word. 

Study of Psalm 119. Psalm 119:9

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. 9: Provides Purity (Sanctification)

How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. Psalm 119:9

How can: what end, what good, purpose
Cleanse: make or keep clean, pure
His way: of mode of living, or of character
Taking heed: guard, to protect, attend to
Your word: advice, answer, message

The ruin of young men is either living at large (or by no rule at all) or choosing to themselves false rules: let them ponder the path of their feet, and walk by scripture-rules; so their way shall be clean, and they shall have the comfort and credit of it here and for ever. (Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on the Bible)

The lack of respect for God and His word, is very evident in our society today. The idea that laws/rules don't apply to me has created a generation of godless and selfish people. The longer we as individuals and as a Nation continue to ignore God and His word, we will continue to decline and chaos will continue to reign. 

Want to clean up your act? Than pay attention to and guard God's advice. 

Study of Psalm 119. Psalm 119:6

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. 6: Provides Motivation

Then I would not be ashamed, when I look into all Your commandments. Psalm 119:6

Then: expressing logical sequence
Not: nay, neither, never, no
Ashamed: be put to confusion, to be disappointed
Look: look intently at, consider, regard, have respect
All: altogether, any manner, every one
Commandments: which was commanded, law, ordinance, precept

The past few days, we've been very motivated as we prepare for the arrival of Hurricane Irma. It's amazing how a threat can motivated us into action. We all knew that hurricane season was approaching, but most did nothing about it, until there was a real threat. 

In my life, do I would in crisis mode? Do I wait until I'm in trouble before turning to God? What motivates me into action? 

What should motivate me to obey God's Word, is that it is in fact His Word! If I am obeying His Word, then when I read His Word, it becomes a blessing. However, if I am disobeying God, then reading His Word should be convicting. 

Looking back at the previous verses, there are actions and choices that should be part of my daily life. If I am thinking and acting, in a manner honoring God, then I have no need to be ashamed. 

What motivates you? Do you wait until you are in crisis mode? Or are you creating a daily habit of obeying God? 

Study of Psalm 119. Psalm 119:5

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. 3–5: Provides Direction

Oh, that my ways were directed to keep Your statutes! Psalm 119:5

O that: my wish is that; O! would that!
Ways: of moral action and character
Directed: in moral sense, be directed aright, faithfulness
To Keep: Keep: take heed to self, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard; to protect, be circumspect
Statutes: commandment

Oh, that every part of my life would remain in line with what You require! Psalm 119:5 (VOICE)

What is your wish? What do you dream of? The best wish would be that we live a life pleasing and honoring God. 

As I studied that meaning of the words in Psalm 119:5, the word "Faithfulness" stood out. How I would personally translate Psalm 119:5 "My desire is that I'd be faithful to obey God's Word." 

Faithful. Faithfully obey God. 

Faithful:1. strict or thorough in the performance of duty: a faithful worker.2. true to one's word, promises, vows, etc.3. steady in allegiance or affection; loyal; constant: faithful friends.4. reliable, trusted, or believed.http://www.dictionary.com/browse/faithful?s=t

What good is having directions, if you don't follow them? God clearly states what we are to do and how we are to live. Want true happiness and joy? Then be faithful to the obedience to His Word. 

Want to be happy? (James)

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. James 1:12

Blessed: happy (In congratulations, the reason why one is to be pronounced blessed is expressed by a noun or by a participle taking the place of the subject)

Endureth: to endure, bear bravely and calmly

Temptation: specifically, the trial of man's fidelity, integrity, virtue, constancy

When he is: become, come about, happen

Tried: properly, accepted, approved

Shall receive: to gain, get, obtain absolutely

Crown: the eternal blessedness which will be given as a prize to the genuine servants of God and Christ

Life: real and genuine

Promised: to announce that one is about to do or to furnish something

Love: love to a master, God or Christ, the word involves the idea of affectionate reverence, prompt obedience, grateful recognition of benefits received

Want to be happy? Start loving God — with reverence, prompt obedience and grateful recognition of all God gives. Following Christ doesn't come with a promise of "easy street". There will be hardships along the way. But through it all, God remains faithful! 

Blessed—happy because no matter what happens, I choose to love God and obey Him with a thankful heart. 

How do you spell relief?

Sunday Night my Pastor is speaking on 1 Peter 5, "How do you spell relief?" I've been thinking about that. 

Relief: a feeling of reassurance and relaxation following release from anxiety or distress.

First and foremost when I think about relief, I think physical relief from pain. Since October 2000, the only real relief from pain I've had, was when I was under anesthesia for surgeries and procedures. Pain is now a constant ever-present reality. I have techniques and pain medications to help lower the intensity of the pain, but it never goes away. There is really no relief from the pain. So physically, for me, there is no way to spell relief.

Physical relief may not be a reality for me, however, there is more to me than just pain and the physical aspect. I also have a heart/soul.

R: Relationship with God (is it right?)
There is a physical benefit of having my heart/soul right with God—handling the pain becomes easier. Mind you the pain doesn't become less, rather, I have a peace and calmness in the midst of the pain. And that is an amazing relief! How do I make sure that my heart and soul are right with God? It begins with a relationship with God. And as with all relationships, if I want it to be healthy, then I must spend time talking and listening to God. Yes, it's that simple. I can't expect my relationship with God to deepen, if I don't spend time with Him and in His Word. 

E: Encouragement/Joy
How do I spell relief? Relief also comes from encouragement. Often I am amazed that when I encourage someone else, my heart seems to have wings! It's like my "joy container" overflows! And when your heart is full of joy—it bubbles over into all aspects of my life. It's hard to be down when you are bursting with joy—epecially God's joy!

I have God’s more-than-enough, more joy in one ordinary day. Psalm 4:7

L: Live in accordance to God's will

Next, I must take my relationship with God to the next level and apply what He teaches me. For listening and not doing, well it just doesn't make since. Think about your personal relationships. If you ask someone to do the dishes, and they say that they agree the dishes need to be done, but do nothing about it—well, how does that effect your relationship? It puts a strain on it. That happens when I don't do what God asks. There is a strain on the relationship. I become distant from God, because I know full well what He wants me to do, and I should do it out of love and respect for Him. When I do not, it robs me of the joy and peace He provides. 

I: Imperturbation (freedom from mental disquiet, anguish)/ God's peace! 
How do I spell relief? It's not just about the "me" side of the relationship. The greater relief comes from the "God-side" of the relationship. For I'm human. I fail. Yet, God is God! And not only is He gracious and loving and kind and good...... He CARES for me! He knows how many hairs are on my head. I don't know that!! Do you? God knows ALL the details about me. Yep, every single one. At times that can be kinda scary—like when I disobey Him. Yet, at other times—that is the most comforting and reassuring thought ever! 

"This is a marvelous thing, that God thinks upon men, and remembers them continually." John Calvin

E: Execute
Execute often brings two meanings to mind. 1. Kill or assassinate. 2. Accomplish, do, perform. And in oder to spell relief, I must do both. First and foremost, I have to kill the doubts and fears that Satan is so very good at bringing to my attention. If I give those doubts and fears room to grow, they become overwhelming. I've written before how fear creates its own reality. Fear is not a "God-thing". Rather He gives peace. (Fear Creates Its Own Reality)

After I kill the doubts and fears (which by the way is an ongoing process), I then must turn my focus to executing God's will. That means service! I am to be serving God and others. God has given me talents and abilities, and I am to be executing them! I may not be able to do somethings—but there are things I can do. And if I choose NOT to do them—that's just sad. And not only that it's disobedient to God. That will rob me of peace and relief faster than anything. 

F: Friends
How do I spell relief? Friends? Yes. For God-designed friendships are vital to life. God created us to love each other. True friends encourage, support, hold one accountable, produce growth, and provide laughter! God-designed friends are those who make sure when you are in the midst of the down and fearful time, you are directed back to God and His ever-present peace. 

How do I spell relief? 

R: Relationship with God (is it right?)

E: Encouragement/Joy

L: Live in accordance to God's will

I: Imperturbation (freedom from mental disquiet, anguish)/ God's peace! 

E: Execute

F: Friends

Well, that's how I spell relief. How do you spell relief?

Proverbs 10:8: Full in Heart (wisdom) or Full of Tongue

The wise in heart will receive commands, but a prating fool will fall. Proverbs 10:8

Wise: ethically and religiously

Heart: mind, knowledge

Receive: take possession of, as preliminary to further action

Commands: human or divine (collectively, the Law), law, ordinance,

Prating: babbling, talkative

Fool: who despises wisdom & discipline

Fall: ruined, thrown away

Here is, 1. The honour and happiness of the obedient. They will receive commandments; they will take it as a privilege, and really an ease to them, to be under government, which saves them the labour of deliberating and choosing for themselves; and they will take it as a favour to be told their duty and admonished concerning it. And this is their wisdom; those are wise in heart who are tractable, and those who thus bend, thus stoop, shall stand and be established, shall prosper, being well advised.

2. The shame and ruin of the disobedient, that will not be governed, nor endure any yoke, that will not be taught, nor take any advice. They are fools, for they act against themselves and their own interest; they are commonly prating fools, fools of lips, full of talk, but full of nonsense, boasting of themselves, prating spitefully against those that admonish them (3 John 1:10), and pretending to give counsel and law to others. Of all fools, none more troublesome than the prating fools, nor that more expose themselves; but they shall fall into sin, into hell, because they received not commandments. Those that are full of tongue seldom look well to their feet, and therefore stumble and fall. 

Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on the Bible

Full in Heart (wisdom) or Full of Tongue. 

When one is talking, they can't be listening. 

Great knowledge, if it be without vanity, is the most severe bridle of the tongue. For so have I heard, that all the noises and prating of the pool, the croaking of frogs and toads, are hushed and appeased upon the bringing upon them the light of a candle or torch. Every beam of reason and ray of knowledge checks the dissolution of the tongue. Jeremy Taylor

A holy life is a voice; it speaks when the tongue is silent, and is either a constant attraction or a perpetual reproof. Robert Leighton 

God has given us two ears, but one tongue, to show that we should be swift to hear, but slow to speak. God has set a double fence before the tongue, the teeth and the lips, to teach us to be wary that we offend not with our tongue. Thomas Watson 

Remember that the tongue speaks only what is in the heart. Theodore Epp 

If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. James 1:26 

And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. James 3:6

Full in Heart (wisdom) or Full of Tongue. 

Oh, that my heart would be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), so that I would shut-up and hear God's wisdom and obey it! 

Full in Heart (wisdom) or Full of Tongue. Which are you?

Proverbs 8:22-31: Been There, Done That

Read Proverbs 8:22-31 here: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+8%3A22-31&version=NKJV

vs. 22
Possessed: created, own, attain
Way: mode of action
Of old: from time of, since

vs. 23
Established: I was installed
Everlasting: long duration, antiquity, futurity

vs. 30
Delight: pleasure, enjoyment
Rejoice: to laugh (in pleasure); by implication, to play, laugh, make merry

Experience: The process or fact of personally observing, encountering, or undergoing something. Philosophy. the totality of the cognitions given by perception; all thatis perceived, understood, and remembered.

To have experience of; meet with; undergo; feel.

(http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/experience?s=t)

I've seen it all. I was there when..... I've been there, done that. I saw what happened when.... I saw first hand..... each can be said of Wisdom. 

Wisdom was with God before the creation of the Earth. Wisdom saw what God created. Wisdom was in the company of God. Wisdom knows and has experience. 

Been there, done that. Know the results. 

When facing an unknown situation, what do we do? Usually search for some knowledge of someone who has been in that situation and knows what happens. 

When we take a trip, we use GPS, or google maps. We want to know how to get to our destination. 

When we are going to a new place, we google it to learn about what it will be like, what to expect. 

When we ...... the list goes on. We want to connect with someone who has been there, done that. 

Exactly what Wisdom is describing in Proverbs 8:22-31. Wisdom was there before God created the Earth. Wisdom saw God create the earth and everything in it. Wisdom has been around since BEFORE the beginning. Wisdom has been there, done that. Wisdom has knowledge and experience of being in the very presence of God. Wisdom has seen what happens when people choose knowledge and obedience to God, AND when people ignore Wisdom. 

When I am facing a situation, I want to discuss it with someone who has been there, done that. And who better to seek knowledge and instruction from—than Wisdom! With a heart permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God, I'll no only want to seek Wisdom, but I'll listen and obey what Wisdom tells me. Wisdom has been there, done that—and that is experience which I want on my side!

Proverbs 5:7-20: How did I get here?

And say: “How I have hated instruction, and my heart despised correction! I have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined my ear to those who instructed me! I was on the verge of total ruin, In the midst of the assembly and congregation.” Proverbs 5:12-14

Proverbs 5:7-20 discuss what happens with you throw Wisdom aside and follow after the "strange, foreign woman"—the one who leads a you away from Wisdom. In the middle of these verses we find Proverbs 5:12-14. 

Hated: despised

Instruction: discipline, chastening, correction

Heart: mind, will

Despised: abhor, treat with contempt

Correction: reproof, chiding

Obeyed: hear, absolute be obedient, "do obey"

Voice: thing said, often of advice, command, entreaty

Teachers: archer who shoots straight, aiming toward the bullseye

Inclined: especially incline (bend toward) the ear, of men (in obedience to God)

Ear: attention, listen

Instructed: to exercise in, learn

On the verge: within a little, almost

Total ruin: evil, distress, adversity

Assembly: properly company assembled together by appointment, or acting concertedly (planned or devised together)

Congregation: assembly specially convoked: for evil counsel

How did I get here? That is often the question when we find ourselves in bad situations. How did I get here? I don't belong. I am miserable. I have NO right be to here. 

How did I get here? It all begins with those hating discipline and despising correction. Once you say, "NO!" to Wisdom it is followed by disobedience, ignoring all that you've been taught.... and soon you find yourself in a situation surrounded by evil, distress, adversity asking the question: "How did I get here?" 

How did I get here? It's was based on a choice you made. A decision to treat wisdom with contempt and choose to join those that love evil. It's not by happenstance that you find yourself in the middle of people who provide evil council—rather it's PLANNED. I didn't "plan" to end up HERE! Well when you abhor Wisdom—where did you think find yourself? 

How did I get here? If you find yourself asking that question, then the first thing you need to do is turn to God and ask forgiveness. 

If you want to keep from having to ask yourself "How did I get here?" then you need to make sure that your heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). For when you fear God, you are open and willing to hear and obey His Wisdom. 

Proverbs 1:28-33: Hate or Hear?

“Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently, but they will not find me.

Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord,

They would have none of my counsel and despised my every rebuke.

Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled to the full with their own fancies.

For the turning away of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them;

But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil.” Proverbs 1:28-33 (NKJV)

Once we find ourselves in the midst of trouble, we then realize the mistake we made, and cry out for help. This is the position Wisdom is referring to regarding those who have ignored her warning. 

Wisdom has given many opportunities to avoid trouble and the consequences of choosing sin, but each was ignored. There comes a point, where Wisdom says, "Sorry, you have no more chances." 

Proverbs 1:29

Because: the end of

Knowledge: in the highest sense, knowledge of God (including obedience)

Fear: fear of God, reverence, piety

Lord: of deity Yahweh, the proper name of the God of Israel

Notice the two verbs in this verse: HATED and CHOOSE. 

The later is a result of the first. When one hates knowledge (including obedience) that leads to the choices; in this case—not to fear God.

In Proverbs 1:30-32, Wisdom continues to describe how the sinners ended up where they are and the consequences. 

BUT— there is hope!

Listens: hears, hear with attention, interest

Dwell: settle down to abide

Safely: quietness and security

Secure: be at ease or at peace, rest securely

Fear: terrifying, dread

Evil: misery, distress

So, the choice is HATE or HEAR. The consequences of both actions are clearly explained. 

Hate Wisdom = fear, chaos, trouble, destruction

Hear Wisdom = a secure and safe place without terrifying fear or distress. 

Sadly, often it seems easier and more enticing to choose Hate. But, when my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), I will easily Hear Wisdom and want to obey. 

Which verb will you choose: HATE or HEAR? 

Luck

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

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Ruth. 

When you harvest the grapes in your vineyard, don’t ·pick the vines a second time [glean what is left]. Leave what is left for foreigners [resident aliens], orphans, and widows. Deuteronomy 24:21 (EXB)

Ruth 2:1-3.

Naomi and Ruth are now in Bethlehem. For food, Ruth goes to the fields to glean behind the workers.   Ruth "just happened" to pick the field belonging to Boaz. However, knowing the rest of the story, we know for certain that this was designed by God. 

We know from Ruth 2:1, that Boaz was wealthy and related to Naomi's husband, Elimelech. Again out of all the fields Ruth could have ended up, she was exactly where God wanted her to be. 

Luck. Just happened. Providence of God. 

Often we attribute circumstance to just luck. However, God Almighty is working and planning to carry out His perfect plan. We often don't realize all that God is doing on our behalf. 

Ruth, knew that she should be out gathering food for her and Namoi. And because God had set a plan for how the widows and orphans were to gather food (Deut 24:21), Ruth could go to the fields and work to supply what they needed. 

It was important too that Boaz followed the laws of God. Boaz was a wealthy man, he knew that leaving grain behind would cost him money. However, he chose to follow God's laws and allow those in need to glean and gather food. 

Looking at my life, I can seem MANY circumstances that at the time, I might not have realized it, but God was working. It's exciting to see God's providential hand working things out in my life. The details He takes care of are so amazing. It's exciting to know that "He's got it all under control." 

When my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), I am right where I need to be so that God can continue to lead and guide me. I don't have to depend on LUCK, for I have the One who controls the Universe watching out for me! 

Never the Right Choice

  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! 

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 This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.  

So kill (deaden, deprive of power) the evil desire lurking in your members [those animal impulses and all that is earthly in you that is employed in sin]: sexual vice, impurity, sensual appetites, unholy desires, and all greed and covetousness, for that is idolatry (the deifying of self and other created things instead of God). Colossians 3:5 (AMP)

Let not your dead nature be effectual in you any more, but let your living nature be effectual. Now the strength of nature is known by the desires. Therefore let the affections of the world die in you, and let the contrary desires which are spiritual, live. Geneva Study Bible

I'm thankful that God included verses such as this in the Bible. It explains that believers (those who have placed their faith and trust in Christ) are still sinners. However, they are sinners with the indwelling Holy Spirit—Who can empower them to KILL the sinful desires. 

Sin is sin. God is holy. Those are two opposites. No matter how glamorous or what excuses I want to use—sin remains sin, period. Sin is never the right choice. And saying that "that's just how I am" or "God made me this way", or whatever other excuse I want to use, does NOT change the fact that it is still sin. 

If I choose sin over obeying God, that sin has become an idol. For anything I give more power, attention to, or support to other than God — is an idol. I have gone from worshiping and honoring God to saying that sin is more important and deserves my attention. 

Stop and think about that for a moment. Each time I sin, I am telling God — "Sorry, but you are not important in my life anymore. You've been replaced." If I truly have even a slight understanding of the holiness and Almighty God—the idea of choosing sin over God should scare me! 

Kill: to put to death, to treat as dead. If something is dead, it no longer has power, control, or a presence in my life. Then why am I even considering the idea of sin? Because I am a sinner. But thankfully, God is gracious and forgiving, and paid the sacrifice for my sin. 

Sin is never the right choice and if I want to kill the desire to sin, I must be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31; MSG).

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. 

Awe and Respect

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 33. Here is what I learned.

Let all the earth fear the Lord. Let all who live in the world stand in awe of him. Psalm 33:8 (GW)

All the earth should ·worship [fear; hold in awe] the Lord; ·the whole [all the inhabitants of the] world should ·fear him [hold him in awe]. Psalm 33:8 (EXB)

"Let all the earth fear the Lord." Not only Jews, but Gentiles. The Psalmist was not a man blinded by national prejudice, he did not desire to restrict the worship of Jehovah to the seed of Abraham. He looks for homage even to far-off nations. If they are not well enough instructed to be able to praise at least let them fear. There is an inferior kind of worship in the trembling which involuntarily admits the boundless power of the thundering God. A defiant blasphemer is out of place in a world covered with tokens of the divine power and Godhead; the whole earth cannot afford a spot congenial for the erection of a synagogue of Atheism, nor a man in whom it is becoming to profane the name of God. "Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him." Let them forsake their idols, and reverently regard the only living God. What is here placed as a wish may also be read as a prophecy: the adoration of God will yet be universal. The Treasury of David

Fear: stand in awe of.

Awe: admiration, apprehension, astonishment, consternation, dread, esteem, fear, fright, horror, regard, respect, reverence, shock, stupefaction, terror, veneration, wonder, wonderment, worship.

I was driving to my Chiropractor appointment, and heard a police siren. I looked in my rear-view mirror and saw that the Police car was a few car lengths behind me. As my heart beat increased, I automatically took my foot off the gas and looked at the speedometer. No, I wasn’t speeding... I pulled over to the far right, and watched as the police officer drove on past. I took a deep breath and continued on my way. 

Why was my reaction one of fear, when I heard the siren? I wasn’t doing anything wrong. Yet, the respect I have for the Police, filled me with fear... and dread because of what I might have done wrong, I was fearful of the consequences. 

As I thought about Psalm 33:8, I’m the fear the Lord, not necessarily because of the consequences of disobedience, but rather because of WHO He is. The fact the God is God Almighty, should instill a sense of awe and respect. And that awe and respect should motivate me into obey and honoring God in all I do and say. 

To create a positive day, I need to fear God and that awe and respect should motivate me into obey and honoring God in all I do and say. 

Teachable with Follow Through

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.

Teach me your way, O Lord. Lead me on a level path because I have enemies who spy on me. Psalm 27:11 (GW)

Point me down your highway, God; direct me along a well-lighted street; show my enemies whose side you’re on. Psalm 27:11 (MSG)

Lord, teach me your ways, and guide me ·to do what is right [on a straight/right path] because ·I have [of my] enemies. Psalm 27:11 (EXB)

"Teach me thy way, O Lord." He does not pray to be indulged with his own way, but to be informed as to the path in which the righteous Jehovah would have him walk. This prayer evinces an humble sense of personal ignorance, great teachableness of spirit, and cheerful obedience of heart.

"Lead me in a plain path." Help is here sought as well as direction; we not only need a map of the way, but a guide to assist us in the journey. The Treasury of David

Teachable. If I ask God to teach me, I need to be teachable. That means that I need to be open to what God wants to teach me, and I need to be wiling to learn. No preconceived ideas. No “I know it all” attitude. No ignoring the lessons. And most of all, no “I’ve learned that before”! Because if God is teaching me... again, I must not have really learned it the first time. 

Then once I learn what God is teaching, I need to follow through. I need to learn the path God wants me to walk, and once I learn it, I must be willing to walk it. Knowing the way and not following through, won’t get me very far. 

How often have I known what God wants me to do... and I remain standing still. If I’m not walking the path God has prepared, I’m not only guilty of disobedience, but I’ll miss out on the blessings God has along the path.

Teachable with follow through—only both those actions will create a positive day!

Eleemosynary

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 57. Here is what I learned.

He sends help from heaven and ·saves me [gives me victory]. He ·punishes [reproaches; scorns] those who ·chase [trample on; hound; snap at] me. ·Selah [Interlude] God sends me his ·love [loyalty] and ·truth [faithfulness]. Psalm 57:3 (EXB)

He will send from heaven and save me from the slanders and reproaches of him who would trample me down or swallow me up, and He will put him to shame. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! God will send forth His mercy and loving-kindness and His truth and faithfulness. Psalm 57:3 (AMP)

Kind:  generous, good; Synonyms: affectionate, all heart, beneficent, benevolent, big, bounteous, charitable, compassionate, considerate, cordial, courteous, eleemosynary, friendly, gentle, good-hearted, gracious, heart in right place, kindhearted, kindly, lenient, loving, mild, neighborly, obliging, philanthropic, propitious, soft touch, softhearted, sympathetic, tenderhearted, thoughtful, tolerant, understanding.

Eleemosynary. This is a new word for me. 

Eleemosynary [el-uh-mos-uh-ner-ee, -moz-, el-ee-uh-] adjective

1. of or pertaining to alms, charity, or charitable donations; charitable.

2. derived from or provided by charity.

3. dependent on or supported by charity.

Eleemosynary. Dependent on or supported by charity.... I think that’s a good way to describe my relationship with God.  I am dependent upon God for His love and mercy. There is nothing I can do to deserve it. There is no way to buy it. God in is grace, simply gives it to me. 

Eleemosynary. Dependent..... I am dependent upon God’s loving-kindness, His mercy. God freely gives His loving-kindness, mercy, grace to me, do I accept it? And being dependent upon God should have an impact in my life. Do I “make it my own” thus, allowing it to change my attitude, actions, and speech?

The Lord has told you, ·human [O man], what is good; he has told you what ·he wants [the Lord requires] from you: to do what is ·right to other people [just], love ·being kind to others [mercy; lovingkindness], and ·live humbly, obeying [walk humbly with] your God. Micah 6:8 (EXB)

Eleemosynary should translate into doing what God wants me to do—obeying, walking humbly with God.

To create a positive day, I need to remember “eleemosynary”—dependent upon the charity of God’s loving-kindness and mercy, and act accordingly.

Do I really value God’s Word?

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 19. Here is what I learned.

The Word of the Lord is worth more than gold, even more than much fine gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey straight from the comb. Psalm 19:10 (NLV)

They are ·worth [desired; coveted] more than gold, even ·the purest [fine] gold. They are sweeter than honey, even the ·finest honey [droppings of the honeycomb]. Psalm 19:10 (EXB)

Desired: greatly beloved, covet, delectable thing, great delight, desire, lust, precious (thing).

Gold: gold as wealth.

Fine Gold: refined, pure gold.

Much: in abundance, enough, exceedingly, full, greatly.

Sweeter: sweet, sweetness.

Honey: honey, made by bees.

Dripping: flowing honey, honey from the comb, the purest honey. 

Honeycomb: the bees natural storage for the honey.

God’s Word. Do I value it? Do I give it the respect it deserves? 

If I do value God’s Word, then there should be a desire.... an overwhelming desire... to hear what God has to say. Then that desire would translate what I read into action. 

Wealth: abundance, affluence, assets, belongings, bounty, capital, cash, commodities, cornucopia, dough, estate, fortune, funds, gold, goods, holdings, lap of luxury, long green, lucre, luxuriance, luxury, plenitude, plenty, possessions, profusion, property, prosperity, prosperousness, revenue, riches, richness, security, stocks and bonds, substantiality, treasure, worth.

Gold, the purest gold. Far better than the purest gold. Highly valued. 

How do I know if I really value God’s Word?

First, do I take time to read it? Am I satisfied with 10 minutes of reading a few verses? How much time do I spend doing other things that have no real value... like watching TV? How often do I rearrange my schedule so that I can watch a certain TV show? And then consider the morals that show taught. So many of the TV shows on today, are filled with examples of sin—yet, I sit and watch them for hours.  I’d say , if I have time to watch (and fill my mind with ‘trash’) than I have time to study God’s Word. So, the question remains.. “Do I really value God’s Word?” 

Secondly, do I obey God’s Word? If I value something, I cherish it. Reading God’s Word is a great place to begin, but if I really value God’s Word, I’ll want to make it part of my life and allow it to change me into the person God wants me to be. 

And lastly, do I share God’s Word with others? Remember those TV shows that I rearrange my schedule to watch? I talk about those with others... and they have no eternal value. If really think that God’s Word is worth more than pure gold, shouldn't I want to share my “riches’ with others? 

The only true way to create a positive day is to make sure that I really value the richness of God’s Word.