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Trained Sight

“Do you see anything?” A Stereogram. You know, those funny posters that cause us to pause and ultimately cross our eyes with hopes of seeing the picture. Once you train your eyes to see it, it’s easy to see. Trained sight. [Note: the answer to what is in the picture is at the bottom of this devotion, you have to read ALL the way down.]

Recently, Mark my beloved and I were asked to take the night of teaching at our Marrieds Group while our faithful leaders were enjoying some much-needed time away and relaxing. We opened with Mark carrying around a tray of multiple small household items, (i.e. car keys, black electrical tape, screw driver, ballpoint pen, nail polish etc – etc) each participant was asked, “See what is in front of you, remember it, learn it.” Each person was to later write down what they saw in front of them. This game sound familiar? Some have played a variation of this at Baby Showers. However, as Mark left the room, (and the folks wrote their answers) I asked them to refer to their list and see how close they came. I began …”What color shirt was Mark wearing?” “Does he wear glasses… does he have a beard … tennis shoes or cowboy boots?” Groanings and “Oh man!” was now being heard among the couple dozen folks. The instructions were, “See what is in front of you, remember it, learn it.”

The Lord has been showing me, that often we don’t ‘see’ what is right in front of us, we are busy seeing what ‘WE’ think is important, (read that again: ‘We see what WE think is important’) Observation is HUGE, being aware is valuable, wisdom and training is a must. Remember the repeated intimate greeting in the movie, Avatar, “I see you.” Oh that we would SEE! See our loved ones, with observation and awareness. Lord, train us with YOUR wisdom… to see.

I was taken to the book of Mark, (sharing with the group) chapter 8, to set the context: A few folks approached Jesus and the disciples, begging Jesus

to heal their friend who was blind. Jesus took the blind man by the hand and took him out of the village. “When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?” He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.” Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly.” (verses 23-25) Amazing story, nothing like Holy DNA in your eyes!

When Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?” He basically asked him if he had the ability to see, do you have your SIGHT? The man replied that he could see, but it was blurry. So Jesus again put His hands on him and the man could now see clearly. NOT just the ability to see, but see in DETAIL. The word used to describe his sight, he saw everything ‘clearly‘, means he now had enough information to contemplate and consider, to think about (something or someone) carefully, especially in order to make a choice or decision. Jesus didn’t leave him with JUST the ability to see, He wanted him to have MORE! More to see beyond what was just in front of him ‘People, as if trees walking around.” He NEEDED to see more.

Narrowing this down to our lives, unpacking down to even our relationships, “How do we see?” How do we see our spouses and those closest to us. Are they a bit blurry. Do we seek to see in detail? (metaphorically speaking).

I asked Mark to share with the group a few things he had seen in me, observed over the last couple of years, “You are far more creative than analytical, I am the opposite. You like variety: You don’t like to watch two episodes of the same show in a row, your coffee or cocoa needs to be different each day, I drink my coffee the same everyday, just black.” He continues, “If you feel you should know how to do something or can figure it out, I need to be careful about trying to jump in and help you right away, it may only frustrate you.” Hm… I might add, GREAT sight!

Often to fully understand something, it helps to look at what it is NOT, at the opposite. The opposite of what Mark narrated about the blind man seeing ‘clearly’ (in reference to this in the Greek) ‘paratheoreo’ it is to overlook, disregard or neglect. Here’s the kicker, ‘to be CARELESS with the information received.’ Yup, BLIND! But it is more, it is in the response. Using this, how would it be if my loving husband were ‘careless’ with the information he observed about me, if he neglected and discarded it as useless. WOW! ‘Seeing’ is not only gathering information (observation) but valuing it as worthwhile to address and take action accordingly. This screams, “I love you, I value you!” Make sense?

Once we gather this ‘seeing’ information about our loved one, (my observation of my husband) “Hm… he is very quiet when I ask him a question about doing something” Long pause on his end. I too pause and ask God for wisdom, “If any lacks wisdom he should ask of God who gives generously to all.” – James 1:5 Wisdom, ‘inviting the practical application of my God into my very moment’ (DeDe’s definition) Not disregarding that I have noticed that if I push him for an answer or neglect that he is a ‘Thinker’ and thinks things through quietly and solidly, I would indeed be careless and overlook him for my own agenda. Wise sight.

The author of Psalms 119 wrote, “… train me well in Your deep wisdom. Help me understand these things inside and out so I can ponder Your miracle-wonders.” (verses 26-27) Further on, “Train me in good common sense; I’m thoroughly committed to living Your way. Before I learned to answer You, I wandered all over the place, but now I’m in step with Your word. You are good, and the source of good, train me in Your goodness.” (verses 66-68 The Message, emphasis mine)

Jesus may have to take us by the hand and take us out, to help us see, like He did the blind man. He may have to lay His hands on us more than once, to open our eyes, see clearly and heal us. Healed sight.

Like the Stereogram above, it may be blurry, but may we ask God to help us see, see our spouses with understanding and insight. May we have Wise sight. When God shows us things, wise things, allow Him to train us in ‘good common sense’ (love that) how to apply what we have learned. Trained sight.

Lord, help us to see our loved ones.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)

Pssst… the hidden picture above in the stereogram, is three crosses over the empty tomb of Jesus. Oh and Mark was wearing a long-sleeve blue shirt, he does wear glasses, has a goatee and had on neither tennis shoes or boots, but brown casual dress shoes.

Posted by Inspired Fountain | November 17, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Godly sight, Jesus heals the blind man, Trained eye sight | 1 Comment

When Life Gets Stupid

I heard a quote yesterday that I thought was SOOO good, I wrote it down, (though short enough to remember). I wanted to jot it in the back of my bible, (but I haven’t yet). I think it is good enough to place on the frig as a daily reminder, (so I will).

The quote? “When life gets stupid”. Isn’t THAT so stinkin true! Life just gets crazy stupid at times, with family, friends, church, ministry, chores, phone calls, emails, grocery shopping, work, PLANNING DINNER … on and on the list goes! Oh I HAVE to add dusting. Since I don’t do it often, I feel better that it even made the list!

Albert Einstein, known not only for his genius status, but one who ‘called it like it is’, was quoted as saying, “Two things are infinite. The universe and human stupidity… and I’m not sure about the universe.” When Life gets stupid.

I thought about this throughout the day yesterday. Hm, when life does get hectic and messy, often our responses reach for stupidity. You know, when we completely lack any form of intelligence or flippantly forget to grasp common sense, we just… take off running (in ALL directions) and accomplish practically nothing in the process. And perhaps that stupidity takes its liberty, and brings along a dear friend whose name is Chaos. WHAT do I do with it (them) stupidity and chaos? How do I take pause and prioritize?

The answer? Wisdom! That ‘w’ word. Webster defines wisdom as ‘The quality of having experience, knowledge and good judgement.’ I like to break it down to even simpler terms, ‘inviting the practical application of my God into my very moment.’ I think James must have had a few of these days, he says ‘those of you who lack wisdom ASK …’ (1:5) He goes on to say “Ask the lady at the check out stand.” Um, NO! Ask your very best buddy? Again, NO! “Ask GOD!” God, who gives generously. There WILL be days that we NEED to tap into this generous offer. God will show us by His Spirit and in His word skills in the affairs of life, wise and insightful paths. He will give moral understanding and offer practical application, the Biblical definition of this wisdom James speak of. If you are like me, you need step-by-step instruction to dig yourself out. He will do THAT! If you lack insight, the skills needed in the moment, understanding and by golly HOW to apply all this God stuff…ask. “God WHAT is it You want in this very moment?” HOW am I to respond, give me the words and the plan, show me what is most important right now” He is the God of our now! Take just a brief breath to exhale this as well (go for the extra measure) “WHY are my motives important … WHERE should Your name be placed?” May I boldly offer, when/while asking this of God, put the bat down, the one you are beating yourself with. He is loving, He will answer. Just make sure you listen with followup obedience when He speaks to you. “Wisdom begins with a proper understanding of who God is and who we are not.” – Andy Stanley (emphasis mine) We need to listen.

When life gets stupid? Remember, pause, ask God. Wisdom.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | October 30, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Leave a comment

A Changed Breath

Have you ever held a fluffy dandelion and gently blown, watching the seeds take flight, captured by a breeze and float away? It has a technical name of Wind Dispersal, I call it childlike fun, a gentle wind caused by my own breath. Sewing seeds.

Not all seed casting can be gentle, often some are thrown with extreme strength, thrusting the seed out, smattering with scattered force. Paints a violent picture does it not. This is where Saul (also known as Paul) was found in Acts chapters 8 and 9. Saul lands on the pages of scripture in this same violent force, he is first seen holding the jackets of those stoning Stephen, accepting and participating. A few verses later, “Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priests and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners…” (Acts 9: 1,2 emphasis mine) Saul breathed out murderous threats. THAT is some really bad, icky wicked breath! These threats weren’t just being mean, the word Luke uses to describe Saul, shares strong ATTITUDE. Saul, being a highly educated ‘religious’ man, was treating Jesus followers in contempt, regarding them as inferior and worthless. His breath was that of severe reproach, fault-finding on petty matters. Sewing seeds. BAD seeds. Harmful, painful seeds.

I often find the Lord’s responses extremely humorous, Saul was heading to Damascus to ‘Get those Jesus followers!” Instead, Jesus intercepts. Gotta love Jesus interceptions! In short, Paul is DRAMATICALLY saved, he has seen the light! What mercy, what grace! What love on God’s part. Taking a step back and looking at Paul’s life, he had a change of breath. His once condemning threats have turned to, he writes: “Paul, an apostle, sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead … To the churches in Galatia: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,to Whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (Gal. 1-5) He continues to greet those in Rome, Corinth and Ephesus, Philippi and Colosse in the same manner, “Grace and peace to you from God our Father.” What transformation! His change of breath helped change the world. From reproach to praise. From scolding to encouraging. From death to life. You would never conceive the same wicked threatening man would pen “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. ” – Eph. 4:29

May we consider applying to our own lives a change of breath. How are our words, actions and attitudes sewing? Do we like as Saul once did, regard others as inferior or worthless. Does our attitude scream contempt? Or does our whispered words float on mean breezes. Do we need a Jesus interception – perhaps AGAIN! Yes, we are saved but need Him in our face! (Just sayin it like it is)

May we sew God loving, grace ministering seeds.

A changed breath.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | October 13, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: our words can change lives, Pauls transformation | Leave a comment

Redefining the Season

September, October and November. Ah… I love the Fall season. The weather changes from the thick warm air to the now wrap yourself in your favorite quilt. With the changing of the season comes the changing of routine. Vacations have taken their place in fond memories, the kids again are finding the big yellow bus, and coffee seems to again take on a priority of the cool mornings. Season and change have somewhat of a synonymous meaning.

Certain seasons bring with them familiarity, habits and patterns. For years my summer months consisted of preparing, studying and researching for the upcoming launch of the Fall Womens Bible Study. As the Leader, I gathered and met with my team of women, sent out the postcard invitations to the women of the church, then on that September fall morning with Bible and notebook in hand, and a message on my heart, I stood welcoming some 40 gals as they bustled in all cheery eyed, hugging amongst all as if the reunion could not be soon enough. For the next few months, we studied, prayed, laughed, cried and grew in our love for God together. Seasons.

Often with the change of season comes an entangled set of habits or life patterns. Some of course are a necessity, running out the door as we drop off the kids to practice, battle traffic to get to work. However, (let us take pause) there may be life patterns (not so good and no so healthy) that have the OPTION of change. “Hm… we have an ‘option?’ But I’ve always done it this way, this is all I know. This is WHO I am. This is familiar.” We self define and define the season. May I boldly say, “We are too COMFORTABLE here.” If you would allow me, (whilst the kids are now safely on the bus, morning duties completed, and it’s just you and I.) Let’s invite the Holy Spirit to open our hearts and minds to His gentle whisper. Are there thought patterns or a heart condition that need to be addressed? Is THIS the season to address them?

Recently looking at Paul’s words to the folks in Philippi (chapter 4) he speaks to anxiety and prayer, God’s peace, having a gentle spirit and joy. He then pens those words… you know the ones where he commissions us to basically get our mental act together: “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell (think) on these things.” – verse 8 (emphasis mine) The last couple of days I have looked at what it is to ‘think’ about stuff. Stuff.. all stuff. I came across a very interesting word in the Greek, ‘eunoia’ (yoo-noy-ah) meaning, ‘wholeheartedness, enthusiasm, eagerness’. But it is much more, in short, (trust me, I’m being SHORT) eunoia is well minded or beautiful thinking. It can also mean ‘to agree’. How/what are we ‘thinking?’ Are they beautiful thoughts? Are they true, right and pure? Are they God thoughts, are we ‘agreeing’ with Him? Do we have thought patterns that NEED some changing? Now is the time.

Solomon spoke to seasonal changing as well:

“There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time (season)for every event under heaven—
A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.
A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up.
A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance.
A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing.
A time to search and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; A time to be silent and a time to speak.
A time to love and a time to hate; A time for war and a time for peace. ” – Ecc 3:1-8 NAS

Is it time? The ‘appointed’ God time. Time to take that hurt that may seem to sit in a priced glass box for others to see, take it out and give it to God, ‘a time to heal.’ Is it time to change the ‘torn apart’ and ‘sew together?’ Is it the season to build up, laugh, dance, to embrace? Is it time to give birth to something new in your heart?

YOU define the season. Redefining. The season for change is now. Think on it. Think with your whole heart, enthusiastically and with much eagerness. If this is a season to ‘prepare’ for the next, then …prepare.

“Father, we invite You, come and invade our thoughts, just as King David said, “O Lord You have searched me and You know me, You know when I sit and when I rise, You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down, You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You know it completely.*” You know us. Grace us with desire to change, the insight to see and the wisdom to do it. We are Yours. In the most powerful and precious name of Jesus.”

Redefining the season. Just like Michael Jordan redefined the jump shot, YOU redefine this season, from mourning to laughter.

Shoot me an email if you prayed this prayer with eagerness, (dede4him@gmail.com)

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)

*Psalm 139:1-4

Posted by Inspired Fountain | September 25, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: A new season in God, Christian seasons, you define the season | Leave a comment

The Picture of Understanding

“A picture is worth a thousand words.” The Chinese proverb speaks to the image put in front of us, but how about when no actual image is offered, just mere words. Words that cause your mind to paint the picture.

When teaching Hermeneutics a few years ago, we took a sharp look at the ‘culture’ to help determine the possible meaning behind ‘pictoral wording’, the example used was, “Heap burning coals on his head…”

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Ro. 12:17-21 (emphasis mine)

Not only was Paul painting a dandy of a picture, but speaking directly to the culture of that day, while quoting Proverbs 25: 21-22. WAIT, this is getting good, keep reading: Fire was HUGE! For warmth and cooking, when ones ‘fire went out’, (and out of burning material) well …not a good thing. These folks would travel distances to their neighbor to get more live burning coals. If the neighbor was generous and full of kindness, they would not just place a few hot coals in the pottery container, but HEAP the pot full. The person would then place a cloth on their head, putting the container there as well and carry it home that way, as was the custom of eastern culture. Reading the verse with this in mind, has the potential of ‘seeing’ it differently, then just our “YES! Get the dude back and burn his head!”

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (vss 20,21)

In doing so, you meet the need of the person, you go big and beyond. Blessing them. Now YOU are not playing the game …. rather… “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

A picture of understanding.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | September 9, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Heaping coals on their head, showing kindness, understanding bible word pictures | Leave a comment

Missing Element

Recently a dear friend passed on to me a question asked of her and invited me to chew on it a bit and let her know what I came up with. A co-worker has been struggling with Matthew 6, where Jesus exhorts us NOT to worry about food and clothing. In context to this portion of scripture, lies her mindset, “If God is concerned about the ‘little stuff’ (food /clothing v. 24-34) and being ALL knowing, All powerful, then why … why does bad things happen to good people?” Where is God in it all? THIS is an age old struggle. One that I have set in the middle of the room and walked around it many times, sitting and pondering, get up and walk around it again. (if you will) With one resolve, I concluded… God is still GOOD.

First before we step down, and take off running, Jesus isn’t necessarily speaking to need for food and clothing, He is addressing our focus, the energy it takes. He continues with, “Your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you.” (v. 32b-33) Look to God, go to Him. SPEND yourself, spend your energy pursuing Him and His Stuff, FIRST.

The world is full of heartache, pain and suffering. Murder, rape, theft, decease and abuse … the list is vast is it not! “Why do bad things happen to good people?” In my research to offer some kind of an answer, I came across an

Depressed little girl

article written by Jewish Rabbi, Aron Moss. His words spoke volumes to me, rather than trying to summarize them, he has this to say:

“Why bad things happen to good people?” If this ultimate question were answered, then we would be able to make peace with the suffering of innocents. And that is unthinkable. Worse than innocent people suffering is others watching their suffering unmoved. (read THAT again!) And that’s exactly what would happen if we were to understand why innocents suffer. We would no longer be bothered by their cry, we would no longer feel their pain, because we would understand why it is happening.

Imagine you are in a hospital and you hear a woman screaming with pain. Outside her room, her family is standing around chatting, all smiling and happy. You scream at them, “What’s wrong with you? Can’t you hear how much pain she is in?” They answer, “This is the delivery ward. She is having a baby. Of course we are happy.”

When you have an explanation, pain doesn’t seem so bad anymore. We can tolerate suffering when we know why it is happening.

And so, if we could make sense of innocent people suffering, if we could rationalize tragedy, then we could live with it. We would be able to hear the cry of sweet children in pain and not be horrified. We would tolerate seeing broken hearts and shattered lives, for we would be able to neatly explain them away. Our question would be answered, and we could move on.

But as long as the pain of innocents remains a burning question, we are bothered by its existence. And as long as we can’t explain pain, we must alleviate it. If innocent people suffering does not fit into our worldview, we must eradicate it. Rather than justifying their pain, we need to get rid of it.

So keep asking the question, why do bad things happen to good people. But stop looking for answers. Start formulating a response. Take your righteous anger and turn it into a force for doing good. Redirect your frustration with injustice and unfairness and channel it into a drive to fight injustice and unfairness. Let your outrage propel you into action. When you see innocent people suffering, help them. Combat the pain in the world with goodness. Alleviate suffering wherever you can.

We don’t want answers, we don’t want explanations, and we don’t want closure. We want an end to suffering. And we dare not leave it up to G-d to alleviate suffering. He is waiting for us to do it. That’s what we are here for.” (emphasis mine) — Thank you Rabbi Aron.

Working through this these last couple of weeks, I was amazed when sitting in church, the guest speaker, a missionary in the Philippines by the name of Mark, stood before us. With a transparency that had us all leaning forward eager to hear, he shared what was for me, the missing element to my quest. He bluntly, yet so tenderly stated, “It is not WHY, we should ask, but … ‘WHAT?’ From there, I got my own little sermon whispered in my ear from the Holy Spirit. “What Lord do You want me to do now… What do You want me to learn … What part do I have in this?”

“Why?” Tends to just seek an answer, “What?” Can lend to ACTION! “What do I ‘DO’, what do I ‘learn.’ Heartache and pain, does indeed generate the ‘whys’, let’s do our best to generate action, with a WHAT!

I do not know if this answers the question for this gal, yet I do know for myself, it helps me to remember to continue to spend my energy on seeking God and God stuff. Challenging me, being aware of my God starts when I learn and accept the limitations of my own self-sufficiency. Where is God? He is … in ME! He desires to use me. Use me to help reduce someone’s pain, remove the suffering. Also, that we live in a fallen world, where fallen and sinful humans dwell, where bad things happen. But God.

I will leave us with, “Do things for people not because of who they are or what they do in return, but because of who YOU are” ( Harold S. Kushner) I will add, because of ‘Whose’ you are. We are children of the Most High King, now go…

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | June 12, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: being God to others, helping others, Why does bad things happen to good people | Leave a comment

Exciting Challenge

SUMMER! Just ahead… if you are like me, at the end of my spring time study focus I begin to think about what I am going to read this summer. Usually, I begin my list with an adventurous Christian fiction novel, I tend to lean towards a historical setting, one full of romance, travel and faith. And of course, strong characters that cause me to close my eyes and picture myself right where they are or shake my head in complete questionable wonder. Summer!

I am changing the genre this year, I am going for a true story, yet holds all the same elements that grip my attention. My goal is to read the entire Bible in 90 days. Yes, that’s right in three months. It is an average of 16 chapters a day. Those who know me best, KNOW I can not do THAT in my normal way. I am a ‘rabbit trail’ reader. I will begin reading a verse or portion of scripture and before I know it have multiple windows open on my laptop, stacks of books chaotically laying at my feet and Notepad full of notes to organize later. Over the course of the next few weeks beginning June 1st, I will set aside my study resources, my goal is to gain a glimpse of the entire story from Genesis to Revelations, asking the Holy Spirit to make all the connections of characters and see God’s hand move with a gentle wave over HIS story. I will however have a notebook with me, instead of running off immersing myself in deep research, I will quickly jot down the things He illuminates for me to study … later.

How about it? YOU want to join me? I will be using GateWays online 90 day plan [ https://www.biblegateway.com/reading-plans/bible-in-90- summer_readingh days/today?version=NIV ] It offers the option to choose the translation you want, I would encourage a translation that of course is easy to read (New Living Translation, The Message or New International Version) due to the amount of reading, if you are like me NOT a great ‘reader’, scan and skim… always PRAYING before you read, that God opens your eyes, mind and heart to ‘see’ what He wants you to see.

As the saying goes, “There’s an APP for that!” If you prefer to have this accessible on your SmartPhone, ‘YouVersion’ offers the 90 day phone App as well.

Most importantly, this goal is to gain an overview of God – His story, much like a whirlwind vacation trip, taking pictures along the way. PLEASE do not grow discouraged if you miss a day, or get behind, this is not a ‘competition’ with others and or yourself.

I would love to hear from you, if you feel this would fit your summer reading or sense God whispering in your ear, “Do this…”

Be blessed!

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | May 25, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: 90 Day Bible Reading Challenge | Leave a comment

Crossing the Line (Again)

It has been said throughout history, “Now you have really crossed the line.” Many, if not most often was said to those who made stupid (STUPID) decisions. Crossing the ‘line,’ declares once on the other side chaos is the potential reality. The line. You know, the place where good and bad stand facing each other. Ever find yourself there? Standing either on the line, straddling it or now … just inches beyond. Regret is the instant response. Crossing the line.

Aaron of the Old Testament was a line crosser. Exodus 32. Painting the scene: Moses was up on the Mount with God, God was etching the Law on the Tablets. While this was happening, chaos below. The people grew restless (‘restless’ sermon in itself, for another time) Aaron was left in charge. Leadership was not new to him, being Moses’ brother, he was at his side confronting Pharaoh in Egypt, he was there when Manna and Quail was provided to the people, he along with Hur held up Moses’ arms in the battle against the Amalekites. Now. Now the folks come to AARON frustrated and lost, “Do something… make us gods to follow…” The line. Aaron instructs them to take off all their jewelry, handing it to him, the narratives says he used a tool and HE shaped the image into a calf. (sigh) Placing the idol in front of an altar and the people, chaos began. He truly crossed the line.

God sent Moses back down to the people, out of disgust, Moses carrying the Tablets, threw them, breaking them to pieces. Moses confronts all. Aaron still on the ‘other side’ of the line, responds “Do not be angry, you know how prone these people are to evil. They said to me, ‘Make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him. So I told them, ‘Whoever has any gold jewelry, take it off.’ Then they gave me the gold, and I threw it into the fire, and out came this calf!” Hm … interesting. He actually went with the ‘oh, looky there, a calf…’ explanation. Other side, lying.

As the people ran wild, Moses stood at the entrance to the camp, declaring “those who are for the LORD, come…” The line drawn. A new line for Aaron. Immediately ALL the Levites rallied to Moses. You see, here is where we pause, Aaron is a Levite. Aaron crossed the line AGAIN. He crossed back. The folks were instructed to grab a sword, three thousand died that day. Not much more was said about Aaron in this chapter, however it is said that Moses interceded for the people AND Aaron (Deut. 9)

What AMAZES me, Aaron crossed the line and made that HUGE bad decision …yet and yet, God. Forgiveness runs deep, so very deep. God chose him to be a priest. Going on to stand before the people, representing the holiness of God. “Then Aaron lifted his hands toward the people and blessed them. And having sacrificed the sin offering, the burnt offering and the fellowship offering, he stepped down. Moses and Aaron then went into the Tent of Meeting. When they came out, they blessed the people; and the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people. Fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the fat portions on the altar. And when all the people saw it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown.” – Leviticus 9:22-24 Notice the fire of God consumed the offerings, and NOT Aaron, wonder if there was just a little ‘ducking’ on Aaron’s part. (kidding)

Some would say, “but Aaron …” Flipping our pages ahead to Numbers 16-17, Korah, Dathan and Abiram spark a ‘coup’ challenging Aaron’s priesthood, God opened up the ground and swallowed them up – THEN there was a plague on those who sympathized with the rebellion, Aaron was told to go and stand between the living and the dead, offering incense, the plague stopped. Following this, God told Moses to take a rod from each tribal leader (Aaron included) write their names on their rod, place the rods in the Tent of Meeting, the one that buds, HE is the one chosen for priesthood. The next morning, guess which rod had budded? Yup, Aaron’s representing the tribe of Levi, God saw fit to cause it not only to bud, but it had blossoms and actual almonds on it!

How many of us have been where Aaron was, made some really STUPID decisions, crossed the wrong line, found our lives in chaos. God in His most gracious love, offers ‘cross the line again’ opportunities. His forgiveness running deep. Just like Aaron, the opportunity was there, he immediately stepped forward, God used him mightily. Or perhaps you stand now rubbing your toe against the line, wondering… just wondering. Stop.

Life is not meant to be a hopscotch game, stepping and hopping from one line to the other, yet when the line is crossed, CROSS BACK.

I love Kings David’s Psalm 133. “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.” Beautiful.

Crossing the line, AGAIN.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | May 14, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Aaron crosses the line, Aaron makes the calf, great forgiveness | Leave a comment

Trim Your Wick

The CANDLE … warm glow, dancing of the flame, the slow drip of the fragrant wax. Soothing isn’t it? One could sit for hours in its shadow, just admiring the effect it has on us.

While leading bible study, we were immersed in the Tabernacle of Moses, an amazing study. As the women entered the room, they are greeted with a white linen covered table; with two tapered candles burning in long stem crystal holders. The atmosphere is warm and elegant, inviting. There is something about … a flickering flame.

The Lord revealed Himself many times in the flame, the bush with Moses, where he was commissioned, and Yahweh gives us His name, “I AM THAT I AM” (Ex. 3), and the pillar of fire at night to the Israelites, extending His guidance (Ex. 13). Solomon dedicating the Temple, fire came down from heaven as God’s glory filled it (2 Chron. 7). One can not talk fire, forgetting to mention the show down on Mt. Carmel, Elijah, and his God against the prophets of Baal (I Kings 18). Then the tongues of fire on the heads of those gathered at Pentecost (Acts 2)

Oh, we may not be calling God down from heaven these days to consume our sacrifice to prove a point, but the use of the flame on a smaller note, we can understand. The theme of the candle or lamp in the bible is strong. In Psalm 18:28 David writes “For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness”. Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path”. It is God that burns, His presence, His word that lights our way; it is in our very next step we desire Him to be present. Light our way O God!

With the joy and privilege of the candle comes responsibility, tending. The priests DAILY tended to the lamp in the Tabernacle. Along with the sacrifice, the water, the light, these needed daily attention. When God gave strict instruction of the articles for the Tabernacle, He included the ‘wick trimmers’. Exodus 25:38, the wick trimmers were made of pure gold.

As I researched this, I was amazed to find the need that as we trim the wick short; we ‘cut off yesterday’s fire.’ It was described that the wick begins to have a small build up, causing the flame not to burn pure and too fast. This is the black soot that flows from the flame; it is drowning in a large pool of melted wax. This soot seems to fall and attach itself to those things closest to the candle. Hm… think on that. Drowning in melted wax, black icky stuff attached. We trim for a fresh, even, pure, lasting flame! Fresh Fire! Does that stir something in you?

We recently moved into a new house with a very modern gas stove, cooking on it is a learning process for me having never cooked on one, with fear of BLOWING the house up, yet it interests me that when I turn the flame off how immediately the pan or tea kettle begins to cool down. So it is with our spiritual life, remove the flame of God and we too have an immediate ‘cool down.’

The Lord spoke to me about the need to come DAILY, seeking His presence, His word, that FRESH FIRE, depending not on yesterday’s experience! As I trim my wick and prepare for a fresh word from God, His presence comes. As He did with Moses, He will reveal Himself to me, commissioning me for the day. As the Israelites, He will guide me. As His temple, He will fill me. Just like Elijah, He will do great things in my midst. I will seek the constant flame, NOT allowing a cool down.

How is our flame burning? Is it yesterdays fire, has it cooled down or gone out completely? Seek as David did,.. ‘light my candle O God!

Fresh Fire… trim your wick, for a pure, even, lasting flame, Go God! (wouldn’t THAT look great on the Yankee candle label)

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | April 24, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: candle in the Tabernacle, fresh fire of God, Trim the wick | Leave a comment

Good Friday, a Red Letter Day

HAPPY GOOD FRIDAY!!! Have you ever sat and read through the New Testament and read ONLY the words in red? Jesus’ words. For a completely new perspective, I challenge us to do just that. I know context is everything, but step out of the exegesis box (interpreting the scriptures) for a brief moment, to get an amazing snap shot of Jesus. His strength, authority, His love, and compassion.

Without all the narrative, those red words pack a powerful punch, knowing that Jesus says them. There are dramatic statements, strong commands, tender words. “Let it be so…” (Matt. 3:15) “It is written…” (Matt.4:4) “Get up…” (Matt. 9:6) “Take courage it is I…” (Matt 14:27) “Quiet, Be still…” (Mark 4:39) “Come forth …” (Jn. 11:43) “Don’t be afraid just believe…” (Mark 5:36) “What do you want Me to do for you…” (Mark 10:51) “Who do you say I am…” (Lk. 9:20) “Then neither do I condemn you…” (Jn. 8:11) “I am He…” (Jn. 18:6).

These are just a few, but there is one more that to me stands out among the rest. Here I do want to set the context. Jesus is agonizingly set between two thieves. His feet and hands are nailed to a wooden cross. Hours earlier, He knelt in a garden declaring for all humanity “Abba Father … everything is possible for You. Take this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You will.”

There at the foot of the cross, many mocked, some cried and I am confident there were those in complete silence. After the vinegar was given to Jesus, He said “It is FINISHED…” ( Jn. 19:30 ~ emphasis mine) He then bowed His head and gave up His spirit.

It is finished. The word in the Greek alone paints the most vibrant color filled picture: “To complete something not merely to end it, but to bring it to perfection or its destined goal”* As the pages turn from Genesis to this very moment, God’s story is fulfilled. Does it end here? No! But the bridge back to the Father is perfected. Jesus rises from the dead triumphantly (Happy Easter) engages and commissions the disciples, returns to heaven to reign forever. Now we the church, as inspired by the Holy Spirit carry on with the red letter commands, statements and tender words.

Move over Easter Bunny, here comes the risen King! “It is finished.” Now let’s live like it really IS! Relationship offered, relationship restored. May we live each day as a red letter day!

Blessed Easter to you and yours,

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” ~ Heb. 10:24)

* ‘Teleo’ – Quote from the Complete Word Study Dictionary of the New Testament.

Inspired Fountain Website: https://inspiredfountainpen.wordpress.com/

Posted by Inspired Fountain | April 3, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Good Friday, Happy Easter, It is finished, Red Letter Day | Leave a comment

Sneak Peek: ‘A Harnessed Heart vs A Hardened Heart’

“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” – Jesus (Matt. 11:28-30)

VERY INTERESTING, (sorry to yell) in studying the use of the ‘yoke’, I came upon a training guide for those using ‘oxen power.’

Training Oxen Guide…
A. >>Base for Training: Establish leadership quickly and firmly.
B. >> Rules of Training
1. Train regularly
2. Maintain control
3. Be firm. Insist on obedience
4. Be patient and understanding
5. Be consistent in everything you ask
C. >> Train with the yoke (or harness)
1. Teach ‘Turn right, Turn left.’
2. Teach Step In (step toward), and Step Out (step away)
3. Begin to pull loads
4. Work on giving animals a variety of tasks in a variety of environments.

OH MY! Read the list again, now from ‘God guiding and us following’ perspective. Does this not speak LOUDLY, as we come voluntarily, accept the yoke of Jesus. “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” – God speaking, Isaiah 30:21. David shares of his God, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.” – Psalm 32:8

Interesting.

I so appreciate Eugene Peterson’s translation of Jesus’ words regarding the yoke, “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matt. 11:28-30 MSG)

“Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you.”

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” – Heb. 10:24)

[Excerpt from Inspired Fountain Devotional Teaching, ‘A Harnessed Heart vs A Hardened Heart’ … Coming soon]

Posted by Inspired Fountain | March 22, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: training an ox, Yoke of Jesus | Leave a comment

Tangled Hangers

Patience. I want it NOW, or maybe in the next few breaths, before my face turns a shade of red that would cause a paramedic to shudder upon approach. My husband and I, together have begun to work through the devotional book, “Praying the Attributes of God”, by Ann Spangler, and I mean ‘WORK’ through it. One does not merely ‘read’ when you open your heart and mind to transformation. We just finished the week-long journey of patience, looking at God’s patience with us. OH MY GOODNESS! “The Lord, the Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.” – God, Exodus 34:6

In short, God does not grow frustrated with us like we do with others, things circumstances or … ourselves. Taking all the geeky (good stuff) and putting it in a nutshell, patience can be translated ‘long-souled’ indicating ‘to be long of feeling, delay one’s anger.’ (YES GOD! Be long-souled with ME!) Quoting, Ann, “God is calling us to be long or large in spirit, willing to exercise faith WHILE we wait for Him to act.” (emphasis mine) Act God!

I have studied patience extensively, but implementing it consistently is a whole other realm, like that of a Sci Fi novel. It takes twists and turns, facing new beasts demanding strong use of weaponry, (can you ‘see’ it?) In the devotional, at the end of the focus on patience, we were asked a few questions, one of which was: “On a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the highest, how would YOU rate your ability to be patient? What would you do to improve your score?” THIS, invoked great discussion for Mark and I, (love that man!) The first thing that came to mind for me was, ‘Tangled Hangers’, NOTHING makes me more frustrated then tangled hangers, at times I am sure I may lose my salvation over the anger that quickly rises within me, when I reach for one, ONE thing, they tangle and others come tumbling out and fall to the floor. ALAS, my score ‘might’ hit a 1 1/2 at that point. This imagery has been with me this pass week or so, asking how can I ‘get out of the frustrated arena, easily reach and not get tangled?’ Isn’t it true of our lives at times, we are SO busy, our mind so full, that when we ‘reach’ for one thing, the thing needed or wanted, it all comes tumbling down. To answer the question, “How can I increase my score?” CLEAN OUT THE CLOSET! (I know, DUH!) The same is with our lives, clean out, get rid of, grow pass all the ‘stuff’, so when we (or God) reaches for something, it is ‘well with our soul.’ We don’t fall to pieces, it is easier, accessible and we get to keep our salvation (just kidding).

“Thank you God for being so very patient with us, willing to allow us to grow and learn. Move – ACT in and through us, we invite YOUR attribute, we welcome YOU, may Your Spirit help us, with … us. May we this week, sense Your whisper as we reach, granting us the strength and wisdom to clean out the ‘stuff’, make life easier and not so cluttered, reducing our frustration. In Your most powerful and loving name, Jesus. Amen”

Tangled hangers – no problem. God.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” – Heb. 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | March 7, 2015 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: how to get patience, Patience, Prayer for patience | Leave a comment

Revelation Vs Resolution

As the calendar takes on a new year, we flip through the photos, whether it be puppies, golf images or as mine hangs proudly … Tropical sandy beaches. The empty squares indicating days yet to be lived, those 12 pages can either propel us or paralyze us.

The change of the new year has traditionally become a ‘re-setting’ if you will of our life compass. We evaluate the past and plan for the future. For some of us, this enfolds sitting down writing out our Resolutions. Money to be made, exercise routines to be eventually avoided, diet plans for hopes of a ‘new me’, buy that new house, get that promotion, start that new reading plan. Don’t get me wrong, these are all good plans of a attack for the new year. However, have we considered that instead of a resolution to do better, get more, perhaps be something other than we are, that we seek … revelation?

Recently I have again revisited ‘grace’ and will continue to do so for the rest of my life. Grace, not only is it a most beautiful word, but a powerful element within the Kingdom of God. Paul uses it in many greetings and closing words, “… grace and peace be yours in Christ Jesus…” I will not share the potentially boring geeky religious or theological information to pack our heads with more ‘stuff’, but I will do as the Holy Spirit has with me recently, massage your heart with God’s love.

Grace, ‘unlimited kindness and mercy of God freely given to the undeserved.’ Now if THAT does not spark something within you, then let me say it again in a different way and personalize it.

GRACE, the absolutely free expression of loving kindness and favor of God given to me when I do not deserve it. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this is not from ourselves, it is the gift of God…” When I make a mess of things or do not have it in me to go on, or my footing is somewhat not sure, or the next moment of my life needs to be lived … He is. His love for me, protects me, guides me, sustains me and opens doors for me. He gives me wisdom beyond my own intelligence, understanding that amazes this old gal and basically He is all that I am not. His plan, (or might I risk saying) His resolution for me is found in Jesus Christ, I can not NOT be anything but victorious. Grace.

Faith puts us on the tracks of grace. Remember in the Indiana Jones movie, when Jones is in pursuit of the ‘holy cup’ of Christ? (Play short movie clip now in your mind) In the journey, he travels through tunnels and passages ways and ultimately comes out only to find a HUGE ravine between he and the entry way to the cup. Soon he has the revelation that the ravine is ONLY a deceitful image. Taking a handful of sand, he tosses it across the ravine to find a clear path to the cup. He stands, extends one leg, closes his eyes and by faith take that first step across.

I know this is a poor and perhaps silly illustration, but for me, faith is picking up the sand and tossing it across our ravines … grace is the ability to walk across and keep walking. Daily there are many forms of ‘ravines’ to be crossed… DAILY He is there to get us through to the other side with an unbroken and immense supply of more grace. Jesus says “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9) How many of us are weak? How many of us this last year have grown tired in spirit and soul?

As we stand at the door of 2015, may we truly position ourselves to seek a fresh revelation of Jesus. Learn more of His love, trust His hand and bow more in gratitude of the mercy He extends by withholding what we deserve and the grace He freely gives with His favor spilling all over us.

I pray over us as Paul did, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all” (2 Cor. 13:14) The divine Trinity at Their best!

From our home to yours, Happy New Year, be blessed beyond …

In Him, DeDe & Mark ( “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” ~ Heb. 10:24)

Inspired Fountians Website: https://inspiredfountainpen.wordpress.com/

Posted by Inspired Fountain | December 30, 2014 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Christian New Years Resolution | Leave a comment

Peace is a Person

Christmas. Just the word alone brings a soft glow to the soul. Images of lights, man in a red suit, baby in the manger, faint sounds of jingle bells and shiny ribboned gifts under the tree. Now let’s throw in a cozy fire, soft quilted blanket, cookies and Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey yelling “Mary!” as he runs through the old drafty house, playing on TV. A peaceful experience. Peace.

Christmas peace, Luke 2:14, when the angel appears to the shepherds, he pulls in the backup singers for this declaration, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, on whom his favor rests.” Not only was God gettin some glory, but peace had come to earth. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6) Sound familiar? “A baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

This New Testament word, peace, ‘eirene’ (i-ray-nay) meaning as O. T. shalom does, prosperity, quietness and wholeness. But it literally means ‘to set at one again.’ The word picture is this: picture if you will something of great importance has been toppled over, with it down, effecting life as we know it, chaos, frustration even unrest. When it is erected again, (set at one) then all is well when it is in its place. Remember Adam and Eve sinning in the garden? Thanks guys! The original design, ‘God and man’ had been ‘toppled over.’ Gone were the days of daily walks together in the garden. Jesus came, setting things back in the right place. God and man in right relationship. “The Word became flesh (Jesus) and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 (emphasis mine) It may not be the Garden, but God again walking with us. Emmanuel, oh the ‘with us’ of God! Peace is a Person.

One of my favorite Christmas carols, ‘Hark the Herald Angels sing’, such theology dripping from these song: “Hark the herald angels sing “Glory to the newborn King! Peace on earth and mercy mild God and sinners reconciled.” Jesus, Peace, God back on earth, setting things right again. God and sinners reconciled.

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. 14 For He Himself is our peace, (set at one again) 17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.” (Eph. 2:13-18) Please read that verse again, slowly. We are now back where we were originally designed to be, full access to God, able to come into His presence. Paul declares this point … “Since we have been justified through faith we have PEACE with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1 Peace is position

There are times in this God following life that even with our love for Him, our appreciation for all He has and is doing for us, we STILL mess up and for some of us, mess up BIG TIME! As a Christian our life seems full of chaos, frustration and unrest, sometimes that is a direct result of our ‘mess.’

Peace the Person, peace the position is ALWAYS available. John strongly shares “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) Often this verse is used as an evangelistic tool, and a GREAT tool for the Holy Spirit, however, John did not write this to the unbeliever, he wrote it to the Christian. Many of us think, well I gave my heart to the Lord at the altar, “I’m good with the Big Guy.” Are we? How is our heart, unrest? There are times we don’t have a clue as to why the unrest. Ask as King David did, “Search me O God…” (Ps. 139:23) Then… listen. Address what He tells us.

As we ‘confess’, we are saying the same thing about it that God does. It actually means to concede, a STRONG word, admitting that you have been defeated and stop trying to win. WOW. Does that define us or what! I am now in full agreement, I align with what You say God. In doing THIS, we are taking what was ‘toppled over’ returning to the original design and bringing Jesus back to His rightful peaceful place. THIS is a daily thing. We mess up, we get cleaned up. Peace restored. Peace is a process.

This Christmas as we sing and sway with the Hoo’s in Hooville, drink another glass of eggnog, rip open the thin paper off our packages, and read PEACE across our Christmas cards, may we pause and consider whole heartedly, we, mankind have the opportunity to be at peace, restored back to God. Yes, Peace had indeed come to earth, and He is KING.

Peace is a Person, a position, a process.

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” ~ Heb. 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | December 20, 2014 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: Jesus is our Peace, peace, Peace at Christmas | 1 Comment

THE Reason for Thanksgiving

Turkey, cranberries, dinner rolls, butter, mash potatoes, gravy, green beans, salad. Breathe. Dinner plates, napkins, silverware, glasses, name cards AND centerpiece. THANKSGIVING! I love this holiday, FOOD – family – fun. Ok, I will add … football. (Go Steelers!) A set time to pause, consider and ponder that which we are thankful for.

Thanksgiving. There are seasons it may be difficult to pull forward on the shelf of our life something to be thankful for. We may have lost a job, or a loved one. Or our bank account matches our emotional bucket of strength, ’empty’. Yet and yet there IS something to be thankful for. You have a REASON for thanksgiving. The great Psalm of thanks opens with, “Give thanks to the LORD for He is good.” (Ps. 136) The Hebrew language renders a beautiful word picture, “Give thanks…” offers the idea to confess or acknowledge in reverence and worship with … extended hands.

“Give thanks to the LORD for He is good. His love endures forever” The author found it needful to repeat “His love endures forever” 26 times throughout the rest of the Psalm. This Hebrew word love is ‘hesed’ (hay-said). It is used 248 times in the Old Testament. Let’s take a look at each one (just kidding). We know it biblically as mercy, goodness, loyalty and steadfast love, even … grace. What a pivotal word. Scholars find it extremely difficult to translate into English, because there really is not an equivalent word(s). In 1535 Myles Coverdale published the first complete modern English translation, using many of Tyndale’s work, in it he uses … ‘lovingkindness’ for the first time.

This merciful (undeserved) love is enveloped in personal involvement and commitment to relationship. Basically it IS relationship. God is pleased when it is reciprocated “For I delight in loyalty (hesed) rather than sacrifice, And in the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.” Our Lord desires faithful love and covenantal commitment. With this, His lovingkindness is precious (Ps. 36:7) marvelous (Ps. 17:7) undeserving (Ps. 103) abounding (Ps. 86:5) reviving (Ps.119:159) satisfying (Ps. 90:14) and everlasting (Ps. 103:17). God is the God of GREAT attributes and God cannot change – He will ALWAYS be a God of love filled mercy. (Thankful yet?)

David’s well known and beloved Psalm 23 (verse 6) “Surely goodness and MERCY will follow me all the days of my life” (mercy – hesed) This ‘follow’ is not a mere tag along behind, but … PURSUIT. David knows the concept of pursuit. This Psalm is known to be written at the END of David’s life. He, once the shepherd, has now/is being Shepherded. God’s unending – steadfast love full of mercy pursued David, He pursues …. US! He is unrelenting. The divine love of God is steady – sure – persistent and FULL of refusal to let go. Aren’t you GLAD He does not let go! Reason for thanksgiving indeed! “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His love endures forever.”

As we share around the table amongst the laughter and love, the blessings of health and family, may we too take a knee, raise a hand and “Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good, For His lovingkindness is everlasting. Let the redeemed of the LORD say so…” (Ps. 107:2)

In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love & good deeds.” ~ Heb. 10:24)

Posted by Inspired Fountain | November 27, 2014 | Categories: * Miscellanous Stuff | Tags: biblical thanksgiving, reason for being thankful, Thanksgiving devotional | Leave a comment

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