The Weekly Encourager – December 27, 2014 – How Brightly Shines the Morning Star

December 27, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

I just sent a Christmas card to a friend who lives on Morning Star Road. I always thought it would be nice to live on a street that would constantly remind me of the Lord Jesus. In the Revelation, Jesus says, “I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” - Revelation 22:16 NASB Indeed, He is the “Dayspring from on high” who has visited us “through the tender mercy of God.” - Luke 1:78 KJ21 He is described as the sunrise, bringing to earth all the essential life-giving properties of the sun itself!

Today's Christmas hymn, “How Brightly Shines the Morning Star,” seems particularly appropriate as we reflect upon Jesus' birth as the sunrise. Thinking about New Year's Resolutions? This hymn gives a beautiful vision for the New Year to come: that we may adore Him more each day, then show Jesus' love to others, to the end that Jesus be known to the whole world, and ALL praise Him with joy forever. This is God's purpose for our life this year. Rejoice in the Morning Star!

1. How brightly shines the Morning Star,
With mercy beaming from afar!
The host of heaven rejoices!
O righteous Branch! O Jesse's Rod!
Thou Son of Man and Son of God!
We, too, will lift our voices,
Jesu! Jesu!
Holy, holy! yet most lowly!
Draw Thou near us:
Great Immanuel, stoop and hear us.

2. Though circled by the hosts on high,
He deigned to cast a pitying eye
Upon His helpless creature:
The whole creation's Head and Lord,
By highest seraphim adored,
Assumed our very nature;
Jesu! grant us,
Through Thy merit, to inherit
Thy salvation:
Hear, oh, hear our supplication.

3. Then will we to the world make known
The love Thou hast to outcasts shown,
In calling them before Thee:
And seek each day to be more meet
To join the throng who at Thy feet
Unceasingly adore thee.
Living, dying,
From Thy praises, mighty Jesus!
Cease we never;
Sing we forth Thy name for ever!

4. Rejoice, ye heavens; thou earth, reply!
With praise, ye sinners, fill the sky!
For this His incarnation.
Incarnate God, put forth Thy power,
Ride on, ride on, great Conqueror,
Till all know Thy salvation.
Amen, amen!
Hallelujah, hallelujah!
Praise be given
Evermore, by earth and heaven.

Wie schön leuchtet der Morgenstern, by Philipp Nicolai, 1597, translated by Rev. William Mercer, c. 1854. Public domain.

The Weekly Encourager – December 19, 2014 – “Thy Sweet Humility”

December 19, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

Typically at this time of year, I'm rushing to cram in every last thing I can do, but this year is different. I got started with preparations, then I got sick. Having to postpone and cancel things has given me a lot of time to contemplate the meaning of Christmas. I am aware throughout the day and night (I have trouble sleeping) that God is in complete control and that He sends trials for His own purpose, to do us good. “He knows our need, to our weakness He's no stranger.” So I do what little I can, seeking His face.

I may be deprived of many pleasures of the season (singing, church, parties, baking, decorating, visiting, etc.), but closing the door on these things opens my mind and heart to God in a different way. Separated from the world for a time, I have more direct connection to spiritual things. In sickness, deep calls out to deep. I am allowed brief glimpses of what it may have meant for Christ to descend to die. If I am truly blessed, there may be quick flashes of actual humility.

Even though I have lost my voice and can't sing, hearing Christmas carols sung by others is a great encouragement to me. I have always loved the carols, for they remind me of the spiritual significance of Christ coming for our salvation. He came to heal the sick, to lift the lowly, to give the weak His glorious strength. He also came to humble the proud. In the carol I share today, Edward Caswall wrote, “Teach us to resemble Thee in Thy sweet humility.” There is no greater lesson of Christmas.

See amid the winter’s snow,
Born for us on earth below,
See, the gentle Lamb appears,
Promised from eternal years.

Refrain

Hail that ever blessèd morn,
Hail redemption’s happy dawn,
Sing through all Jerusalem:
Christ is born in Bethlehem.

Lo, within a manger lies
He Who built the starry skies;
He Who, thronèd in height sublime,
Sits amid the cherubim.

Refrain

Say, you holy shepherds, say,
Tell your joyful news today.
Why have you now left your sheep
On the lonely mountain steep?

Refrain

“As we watched at dead of night,
Lo, we saw a wondrous light;
Angels singing ‘Peace on earth’
Told us of the Savior’s birth.”

Refrain

Sacred Infant, all divine,
What a tender love was Thine,
Thus to come from highest bliss
Down to such a world as this.

Refrain

Teach, O teach us, holy Child,
By Thy face so meek and mild,
Teach us to resemble Thee,
In Thy sweet humility.

Refrain

- words by Edward Caswall

The Weekly Encourager – December 10, 2014 – More Blessed to Give

December 10, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

“Your greatest test is when you are able to bless someone else while you are going through your own storm.” - Regina Malabago

This was posted on Facebook by my friend Ellen, who is enduring ongoing suffering of a nature that I can't even imagine, yet still retains her faith in God with an upbeat attitude. I say AMEN! Our Lord Jesus the Christ lived a whole life of service to others. Even while suffering on the cross, He blessed the thief who repented and His mother who grieved. While dying, He gave to others words of hope! If you are suffering and you can find a way to bless someone else, God has given you His special grace to do that. You are sharing the true sacrificial love of Christ, the love that passes understanding, the love that knows no end. Even if no one else notices, God is watching you, and you WILL be rewarded for every kind word or deed done in His name.

Another friend posted this quote: “I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted and behold, service was joy.” - Rabindranath Tagore

The apostle Paul told the disciples, “You know, from the first day...how I was with you the whole time, serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials....[More] bonds and afflictions await me...but I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, in order that I may finish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God....And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified....In every thing I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” - Acts 20:18-24, 32, 35

When we feel the call to bless another in the midst of our own suffering, it's a test. With “tears and with trials” will we “testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God” as Paul did? This is the ministry which we have “received from the Lord Jesus” if we belong to Him. The student is not greater than the Master. We must take up our cross daily and follow Him, offering words of hope to those around us.

Oh Lord, let everything I say and do testify to YOUR LOVE that is greater than my pain, stronger than any death! May the gospel of grace be evident in my life.

Have a blessed, thankful, giving day.

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – November 26, 2014 – Thankful Testimony

November 26, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

On the eve of Thanksgiving, I'd like to share the encouraging testimony of my friend Wendy Wang, whose mother died sharing her joyful faith in God.

Wendy writes, “I have joined the ranks of those who have lost both parents. My mother passed away last Tuesday. There are so many things to thank God for! One, that my faith plus her suffering over the years let me see her death as a release and a success: She made it! She finished the race! Also, that every family member was present to say goodbye. Everyone gathered in her hospital room, said their love and thanks for specific contributions she had made to their lives, and received the same from her. My children...will always have the memory of how joy transformed her expression when she saw them walk into the room.

She also saw a "huge bright yellow light" two days before her death, when the hospital summoned me to her side. Leaving the light was so painful that she could tell me without hesitation that the next time, she wanted to leave her body behind instead.

The morning she passed, she said, "I want to go to heaven faster." She was in hospice care and didn't feel pain.

In her last month, she told both my cousin and me that this was the happiest time of her life. Despite her physical condition, she knew great joy because giving up the things of this life freed her to spend more time with the Lord. He arranged two born-again Christians to be her caregivers. Two others also loved to talk about Jesus and read scripture to her. Two weeks before her death, while thinking about how God so loved us that he sent his son, she felt an overwhelming presence of love and a sense of thousands upon thousands worshipping Jesus. She even told hospital staff, "Isn't it amazing that God loved us so much that he sent us his son?"

Her funeral was a celebration of life! I gave the eulogy with joy. I am sad for my loss, but delighted for her! She loved me and taught me about God: I thank him for his provision! Love changes people. Nothing will replace the mother-daughter relationship, but new relationships with spiritual mothers and friends will grow instead, like a fertile garden where the loss of a big old tree results in the strengthening and new growth of other plants.

God is good! I will pray for you to keep your mind set on things above, Jesus who knows us and is enough for us.”

What a tremendous example of God's faithfulness to His child, and of a family's faithfulness to gather and thank the dying relative for what she meant to them. How wonderful that words of appreciation were given while the dear lady was still able to hear them!

If we have loved ones who knew Jesus while alive here, they are now alive There! We can rejoice this Thanksgiving, knowing that they are celebrating a far grander feast in Heaven. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift of eternal life!

Happy Thanksgiving!

God is faithful,
j

Testimony of Wendy Wang used with permission, November 2014.

The Weekly Encourager – November 14, 2014 – The Pilgrim's Hymn

November 14, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

Today I am sharing a song we're singing this Sunday evening at the National Shrine. One of the advantages of singing sacred music is that the Lord uses the melody to reinforce the words. Now I can't get this prayer out of my head! To God be the glory.

Pilgrim's Hymn

Even before we call on Your name
To ask You, O God,
When we seek for the words to glorify You,
You hear our prayer.
Unceasing love, O unceasing love,
Surpassing all we know.
Glory to the Father, And to the Son,
And to the Holy Spirit.

Even with darkness sealing us in,
We breathe Your name,
And through all the days that follow so fast,
We trust in You.
Endless Your grace, O endless Your grace,
Beyond all mortal dream.
Both now and forever
And unto ages and ages.
Amen.

-By Michael Dennis Browne, from the opera The Three Hermits

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – November 7, 2014 – Jesus Prays for Us

November 07, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

I haven't written an Encourager in some time, but today, while trying to encourage a depressed friend, I was myself encouraged by the Scriptures. There may be others who need to hear the same things, so here is some of what I wrote to my friend.

After my recent visit with my dad, I am feeling sharp sorrow over unsaved relatives who are headed to hell. In addition, we've had some ongoing health issues, marriage issues, church issues, and other concerns. I am just trying to keep positive and focus on the promises of Scripture. My devotional life is sagging...both Dave and I are fighting depression. My prayer is: Lord, heal my unbelief, and restore unto us the JOY of Thy salvation.

I know that physical health is intimately tied to spiritual & mental health, so I am trying to get good sleep, exercise, etc. Also trying to sing to the Lord, listen to godly music, go to church, and spend time with believers, no matter how I feel. Reminding myself and others to be thankful, no matter what God sends. All of these are vitally important to fight the good fight.

This morning I read what Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Satan has asked to have you, to sift you like wheat, but I have pleaded in prayer for you that your faith should not completely fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers." - Luke 22:31-32 Have you ever felt like Satan was sifting you? Me, too. Jesus knew that Peter would deny Him, yet He had full confidence that Peter wouldn't lose faith entirely.

Combine this with Hebrews: "Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need." - Hebrews 4:14-16

As my son Austin recently reminded me, giving up is a sin which reveals a lack of faith. Yet if Christ was tempted in ALL things, that must include those dastardly Ds: denying God, discouragement, doubt, depression, and despair! Somehow it helps to know that even the Son of God was tempted to give up at times, yet He stood fast. He did what was right, and He did not grow weary of doing good.

Reading on in Hebrews, we come to a similar passage: “Since we have a great priest...let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together...but encouraging one another...” - Hebrews 10:21-25

Romans tells us that “Christ Jesus is He who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.” - Romans 8:34. Ever wonder what Jesus is doing in heaven? He's interceding for the saints.

The amazing truth striking me today is that Jesus was not only tempted to get depressed, but He is praying for me right now about that very temptation! And if you are a Christian, that is true no matter what your area of temptation is. We're all different, but Jesus understands each one perfectly, because He's been there. He gets it, and He loves us, and He prays for us, right now. I may be sifted, but I'm safe.

The second truth I got from these verses is the command to encourage others. Jesus knows our weakness, prays for us, and is confident that we'll overcome – that in itself is encouraging. Then we are called to strengthen our brothers and sisters. Not only is it good for them, but it's good for us. When I tried to lift up my friend today, I was myself lifted up by Christ. “He who waters will himself be watered” is a sweet promise for every Christian. Thank the Lord for His mercy, grace, and goodness.

God is faithful and good,

The Weekly Encourager – May 7, 2014 – Lesson from a Florist

May 07, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

My friend Gitta Smith is a talented floral designer who makes beautiful arrangements for weddings and other events. One time, returning to her house from a weekend trip together, I saw a vase of flowers near her front door. I noticed that the flowers weren't quite at their best, but still an attractive addition to the room. I made some comment about how nice it was to come home to flowers. However, as soon as she saw them, Gitta snatched them away, saying, “Oh, those were supposed to have been thrown away.” I was a bit shocked. Had they been at my house, I would have enjoyed them for another couple of days. Then I realized, she's a florist. Her standards have to be higher. When she presents her creations to her clients, they must be in perfect condition. Having flowers around that are not at the peak of perfection is unacceptable. They reflect badly on her, and they're bad for business.

While re-arranging some flowers of my own this morning, I thought of Gitta. I had to force myself to discard some flowers that were beginning to lose petals. Their continuing presence would degrade the whole arrangement. At that moment, the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart. Isn't that the way I view my faults, holding on to them as long as I can? When the Spirit convicts me of a sin, am I immediately eager to stop doing it? No, sometimes I try to maintain some little bit of whatever the bad habit is, because I LIKE it. Can't I have just a little bit of this sin, Lord? Can't I have just a little bit of this unhealthy food, just one rude retort to that difficult person, just a little bit of sarcasm, just a little bit of laziness, just a little bit of anxiety, just a little bit of grumbling? Please, Lord, it's too hard to give it ALL up!

God's word says that having just a little bit of sin in my life is still disobedience. If I've broken one part of God's Law, I'm guilty of breaking it all. One little bit of leaven leavens the whole lump. Even one moment of rebellion in my heart would have been enough to send me straight to Hell. Just a little bit of sin would have been enough to hang Christ on the cross in my behalf. God calls us to be holy, as He is holy.

Keeping just a little bit of sin around reflects poorly on our Creator, and it's bad for business. All our unbelieving family and friends and neighbors are watching us. They all know we're Christians, and some of them are just waiting for us to trip up, so they can point the finger and justify their own rebellion against God. Our desire is to be a good witness for Jesus Christ in all we say and do. We hope that the Spirit will work through us to bring some people closer to believing in Him. To shine with the light of Christ, we must make no allowance for sin. We have to put off this old man and put on the new, with the Lord's help. Thanks be to God, He provides a way to escape every temptation that comes our way. He is able.

See those dying flowers? Throw them all out!

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager - May 3, 2014 - Joy in the Morning/Mourning

May 03, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

The Weekly Encourager – May 3, 2014 – Joy in the Morning/Mourning

My friend was dying of cancer. Her niece remarked that it didn't seem right that Spring was blossoming at the same time that her dear aunt's body was decaying. I answered that Easter is a perfect time to die, because Spring is a picture of new life. If it were up to me, I would like to die on Good Friday!

Reading Psalm 30 just after Easter, I got a new insight into a familiar verse. "Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning." You hear this verse with reference to the troubles of this life. We go through a time of trial, then it finally ends and we praise the Lord. Yes, but, how about if we see "the night" as referring to the whole of our experience in this world?

Although God gives us moments of joy, this life is a vale of tears. For all who die in the Lord, because of Easter, joy comes in the morning! RESURRECTION! An end to suffering! The dawn! After an arduous journey with many battles and great pain, Frodo awakes in the house of Elrond, a place of golden light, the land of healing, a symbol of heaven.

The following poem by Henry van Dyke (1852-1933) beautifully paints another image for us.

I Am Standing Upon the Seashore

I am standing upon the seashore. A ship, at my side,
spreads her white sails to the moving breeze and starts
for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength.
I stand and watch her until, at length, she hangs like a speck
of white cloud just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other.

Then, someone at my side says, "There, she is gone"

Gone where?

Gone from my sight. That is all. She is just as large in mast,
hull and spar as she was when she left my side.
And, she is just as able to bear her load of living freight to her destined port.

Her diminished size is in me -- not in her.
And, just at the moment when someone says, "There, she is gone,"
there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices
ready to take up the glad shout, "Here she comes!"

And that is dying...

Death comes in its own time, in its own way.
Death is as unique as the individual experiencing it.

As our loved ones find joy in the morning, we can find joy in our mourning. Give thanks to the Lord in all things, singing, "Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing, Thou hast loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness; That my soul may sing praise to Thee, and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to Thee forever." - Psalm 30:11-12

God is faithful,

The Weekly Encourager – April 19, 2014 – Taxes and Easter

April 19, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

The income tax due date and Easter fall in the same week this year. That got me thinking: what do taxes and Easter have in common? The answer comes directly from Jesus: “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the things that are God's.” - Matthew 22:21 We are to show respect for the rulers and laws of our country. As Christians, we submit the annual payment on time, whether or not we agree with everything our government decides. We're grateful to live in a peaceful nation. We're grateful to have an income. Most of us feel a sense of relief when the tax return is complete; now we can get back to normal life. You usually hear that “render unto Caesar” verse as support for honoring the governing authorities under which God has placed us. But, until this week, I've never given much attention to the second half of the verse.

We've done the tax return, now what's the God return? What is due to God, the Most High Supreme Ruler, this week? What are the things that belong to Him? As part of the thankfulness study, I read Psalm 43 this week. “Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God.” The word translated “again” here can also mean “still” or “yet.” Even when oppressed by deceitful and unjust enemies, the Psalmist returns to praise God again and again. This worship is regular and constant. In Psalm 56, even while going through great challenges and afraid for his life, David still puts his trust in God. “Thy vows are binding upon me, O God; I will render thank offerings to Thee.” Although we don't sacrifice animals as in Old Testament days, we still owe Him a sacrifice of thanksgiving in every circumstance.

“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. “ - Psalm 34:1 The apostle Paul reminds us, “Pray without ceasing.” - I Thessalonians 5:17 If constant prayer with thanksgiving is to be our pattern, how much more so at Easter! Jesus Christ gave His own life for ours, to satisfy the Law's demand for righteousness. Jesus was given a holy but extremely difficult task, to die on behalf of sinners. He returned obedience to God, making His whole body an offering. He returned honor and praise to the King of the Universe, even while wishing the cup could pass Him by. In the midst of severe suffering, He kept the faith. He cried out with a loud voice, “Father, into Thy hands I commit My spirit.” - Luke 23:46

After having made the greatest sacrifice any man has ever made, Jesus rose again from the dead. He received the crown of life. “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised! In the city of our God, in the mountain of His holiness!” - Psalm 48:1 Rejoice greatly this Easter weekend, and return obedience from a thankful heart to God! Paul wrote, “I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” - Romans 12:1 “Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire.” - Hebrews 12:28-29

Many happy returns!

The Weekly Encourager – April 11, 2014 – The Top of My List

April 11, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

How forgiving are you? I had a frank conversation with another Christian lady. Both of us were coming across the wrong way, and by God's grace, we admitted it. She said, “I can see you're trying, so I forgive you.” I was shocked, not because she forgave me, but because of how she put it. I wanted to answer, “Don't forgive me because I'm trying, forgive me because of Christ.” I could never try hard enough or apologize well enough to undo the sinful things that have come out of my mouth. Once it's said, it's hanging in the air, even if I regret it. But that's a minor point in the manual of forgiveness.

The major point, as I read the Scripture, is that we forgive because of the forgiveness we've received from Christ. Because He forgave such a humongous debt, we are to forgive the tiny debts, and without any thought of repayment. We forgive out of humility, not pride. We forgive not because our standards have been met, but because God's standards must be met. It's not optional; it's a command.

Jesus Christ on the cross is the supreme model of forgiveness. What is the main reason He was there? Forgiveness of sins! He suffered an excruciating death for my sins, your sins, and the sins of every believer. The amazing thing is that He chose to do it out of mercy and love. “By grace you have been saved, not by works, that any man should boast.” Even during intense suffering, Jesus taught us by His words. “Forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Jesus didn't say, “Forgive them, for they are trying to do the right thing.” He said they know not. In other words, those sinners were not sorry for what they did, and they certainly did not try harder to be gracious! Yet Jesus forgave them anyway, even those who were putting Him to death!

Contemplating this truth begs the question: how forgiving am I? Am I willing to forgive even when people don't apologize? Even when they are willfully ignorant? Even when what they do really hurts? When it's really unfair? When it's motivated by jealousy or spite? When, by any worldly standard, they don't deserve my forgiveness?! Christ did that on the cross. Do I go out of my way to initiate forgiveness? Do I give it graciously, kindly, sincerely? Do I turn the other cheek? Christ did that on the cross. Do I forgive freely with no thought of repayment? Do I act from a heart of pure, unselfish love? Christ did that on the cross.

It's not a worldly standard of justice that we must meet. It's a heavenly one. I thank God for this heavenly standard of grace, because there is no way I could meet the worldly standard of works. I simply can't try hard enough to be worthy of His forgiveness.

In a Bible study on thankfulness, one assignment was to make a list of My Top Ten Blessings from God. Forgiveness of sins is at the top of my list. Oh, how I need the mercy of God! Without Him, I am nothing. Lord, help me to forgive others as you forgave me.

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – April 2, 2014 – Where's the Beer?

April 02, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

Years ago, we held an Open House party for friends and family to come see our new house. One of my co-workers had recently married, so naturally we invited her husband, too, although we hadn't met him yet. I stood at the front door to greet guests as they arrived. When my colleague and her new husband arrived, she greeted me warmly, but I was blown away by her husband. As soon as he arrived, he brushed past me right through to the kitchen, saying, “Where's the beer?” He did not even say “hello” or “nice to meet you” or “thank you for inviting us” or anything of the sort. He did not even smile. His only concern was to have his own desire met as quickly as possible, without any interference from anyone else. Unfortunately for him, we knew that several of our guests objected to alcohol, so we had decided not to serve any alcohol at that party. Was he disappointed!

If you've been reading along for the past few weeks, you know that I've been thinking about thankfulness. That person's behavior was a picture of ungratefulness. He called himself a Christian, but my first impression of him was anything but. If one of my non-believing relatives had seen his behavior and then learned that he was a Christian, I doubt that they would have found the gospel any more attractive. Remembering that incident this morning, I thought, it's easy to criticize this man's behavior, but how often have I approached the Lord in the very same way?

Our loving Heavenly Father is hosting a permanent Open House. Every time I read the Scripture, it's an invitation to pause and enter His house of prayer, but how often do I toss His invitation away? When I do enter the door of prayer, do I rush through the opening without so much as a “glad to see you” or “thank You for inviting me” so I can get right to what I want from Him? In many ways, I am just as selfish as that guest.

There is nothing wrong with asking and even crying out to the Lord with our heart-felt needs. The Bible encourages us to do just that. Yet there are many more references to offering praise and thanksgiving to God when we address Him. I believe that if I have only five minutes to pray, four of them should be spent in praise and thanksgiving, and only one in requests. My heart should be so overflowing with awareness of God's goodness, mercy, and love, that I can't help but thank Him, no matter what's happening in my life! I should be so confident that He is caring for my every need, that my list of wants is but an afterthought. After all, I may want beer, but He may have a different beverage in mind, and it will be better for me at that time. Instead of “Where's the beer?” it should be “How kind You are, Lord. Thank You for inviting me into Your home. I've been looking forward to this party all day.”

I thank God for giving me the great blessing of our church Women's Retreat this past weekend. Our theme was “Living Thankful Lives.” I prepared for the Retreat by reading and thinking about the topic, and the Lord graciously worked in my heart during the weekend. Now that it's over, many of us are doing The 30-Day Gratitude Challenge, a Bible study in the back of DeMoss's book, Choosing Gratitude. One of the things the Spirit brought to my mind at the Retreat during a personal time of reflection was Psalm 100, so I will close with that, in the NASB translation.

PSALM 100

Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth.
Serve the Lord with gladness;
Come before Him with joyful singing.
Know that the Lord Himself is God;
It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving,
And His courts with praise.
Give thanks to Him; bless His name.
For the Lord is good;
His lovingkindness is everlasting,
And His faithfulness to all generations.

There's an Open House today. Are you going?
j

The Weekly Encourager – March 27, 2014 – First World Problems

March 27, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

What happens when a Christian prays for a more thankful heart? My week has been challenging, and it's only half over! Our boiler heat system has been acting up, leaving us cold for several hours at a time, including overnight during snow storms. My car has been starting or not starting, as if by caprice. It's now in the shop for the fourth time in six days. There's been trouble getting the medication I need, and I've been “on hold” waiting to resolve several business issues. The lack of heat at home and the lack of a car to go elsewhere has added to the difficulty. In addition, some extended family issues as well as some church questions are requiring wisdom and careful action on my part. Yet, despite constant temptation not to be thankful, I'm still trying to put into practice what I'm reading about gratitude. I know that I must thank the Lord for all things, even those that try my patience.

Last week a friend said she was “dealing with a string of everyday equipment failures—microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher, electric range, automobile turn signal, etc.” and now there were some major problems with her water system [they have a well] necessitating replacement of multiple pieces of equipment at great expense. She and her husband were without water for several periods of time. I confess I wasn't very sympathetic to her situation then [sorry, Debbie], and now it's happening to me!

One of the things that enables me to thank God even for these aggravations is remembering that most of these are First World problems. In other words, my heat may be out during a freezing cold week, but I still have a house to get out of the wind! I have plenty of clean clothes to wear and warm quilts to snuggle under, and plenty of food to eat. We are blessed to be employed, meaning we can find the money to get our heat repaired, so we have the hope of heat in the near future. A vast number of the world's inhabitants would be happy to have our well-built brick home during a snow storm, even without any hope of heat! Most folks in the world would be glad to get the clothes in my closets or have the use of my car or money for groceries. [Am I being generous with the wealth that God has placed in my hands?]

Above and beyond all my First World blessings is the knowledge that I am forgiven for my sins, and yes, those sins have been more evident in my life this week! It seems I don't deal well with “equipment failures” and “human error.” I especially don't like being cold. Clearly, I am too much of a wimp for God to have placed me in a Third World country. As we approach the traditional time for celebrating Christ's resurrection, I have been thinking how glad I am for God's great mercy. I was worthy of death, but He chose to give me life! Also, Jesus' suffering on the cross was rewarded. He endured and He rose from the dead, receiving the crown of life. This has been a great comfort as I watch friends and family members die. Some have endured great physical suffering at the end, yet they ended up in heaven, a place of perfect health and joy. Third, knowing that Jesus was tempted in every way that I am, yet still managed to be obedient and thankful to God, helps me in my own petty problems.

“What a wonderful God we have – he is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the source of every mercy, and the one who so wonderfully comforts and strengthens us in our hardships and trials.” - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 TLB

“For since he himself has now been through suffering and temptation, he knows what it is like when we suffer and are tempted, and he is wonderfully able to help us.” - Hebrews 2:17-18 TLB

“Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” - James 1:12 NASB

“Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” - Revelation 2:10 NASB

Thank You, Thank You, Lord! Crown Him with many crowns!

God is faithful,

The Weekly Encourager – March 14, 2014 – Cycle of Gratitude

March 14, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

Have you ever been in a downer conversation, where one person starts grumbling about something, then others latch on to it, each story topping the last with more and more disagreeable comments? By the end, instead of feeling better, we're all feeling worse. This can happen at work, home, church, or out with friends. One person starts talking about how difficult her child/neighbor/boss/mother/teammate is, and another chimes in with a worse story. While it can be helpful to find others who identify with our struggles, it's equally important to preserve a positive perspective. As Christians, we are to be grateful people, characterized by thankfulness. It might be a good exercise to balance each negative remark with one or two positive ones.

Have you been in an encouraging conversation, where someone gives a compliment, then others catch the spark, chiming in with more good reports? One small word of praise can change the course of an entire interaction. Nancy Leigh DeMoss speaks of how grace leads to gratitude, which then leads to generous giving, resulting in more gratitude. Today I'm sharing more thoughts from her book Choosing Gratitude. She writes, “The beauty of Christian gratitude is that one little act of thanksgiving on our part – when directed toward or inspired by its rightful Recipient – can bound and rebound from one end of the kingdom to the other, not only blessing God, not only benefiting us, but even lodging itself in places and in people where God's love might never have been received any other way.”

“What has come down to us vertically has evoked hearty gratitude back to God. And out of His fullness, we have been inspired and enabled to shower gifts of grace horizontally in all directions, which in turn motivates even more thanksgiving to return vertically to God from other sources, thanks to what we've done (or more precisely, what God has done through us).

“It's kind of like the rain cycle. Much the same way as water comes down from the sky, replenishing the earth, then returning to the air in evaporated moisture, Christian gratitude keeps God's grace churning full circle...and leaving who knows how many fruits and flowers and refreshed lives in its trail of glory.”

“Imagine the impact in a world characterized by isolation, selfishness, and fractured relationships, if we were to adorn the gospel we profess to believe, with a culture of mutual care, concern, generosity, and sacrifice. The truth we proclaim would become believable. And God would be glorified.” Can we do that? Can we be cheerful, thankful, and generous with our words of praise, even when times are tough? Only if we have hearts transformed by grace. Only if we depend upon the Spirit of the Living God.

Be the reason someone smiles today. Be the reason someone thanks God today.

God is faithful,

The Weekly Encourager – March 6, 2014 – Sick and Glad

March 06, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

I'm sick and I'm glad. What? Yes, I actually said that. A few days ago, I started Choosing Gratitude by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Perfect timing for me to practice the principles of gratitude: I had a great weekend, then I got sick! The long weekend had been planned for months, and I looked forward to my own little getaway for artistic and spiritual refreshment. I had a wonderful time at a quilt show, and read chapters of the Bible and the Gratitude book back in my hotel room. Naturally, I found it easy to thank God for giving me this opportunity to get away from responsibilities for three days.

Nancy DeMoss quotes Matthew Henry, who when he was robbed wrote, “Let me be thankful first, because I was never robbed before; second, because although they took my purse, they did not take my life; third, because although they took my all, it was not much; and fourth, because it was I who was robbed, not I who robbed.” That stuck in my mind. In the hotel that night came my own tiny trial. There were some loud romping kids in the room next door, who robbed me of sleep on what was “supposed” to be my weekend of rest. Fresh from reading about Matthew Henry's thankful spirit, I decided to immediately thank God for the disturbance. I thanked God that I am fortunate enough, by His providence, to live on a quiet street in a single family house, rather than in a noisy apartment building, where I might have to put up with that level of noise every night! How God has smiled upon me. I spent a few minutes in prayer, then fell asleep.

Driving home from the weekend, I started feeling poorly, and by Sunday evening I knew I was sick with some kind of bug. Now this was harder to thank God for, but I did it anyway. After all, I could be sick like this all the time, instead of only once or twice a year! God had just given me a wonderful weekend. It was not my place to complain that the next few days would be difficult. He is Lord of the Universe, and we worship Him. He sends sunshine, and He sends rain, exactly when and where it's needed according to His eternal plan. I think of the glad Scripture song I learned as a baby Christian:

“I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; The humble shall hear thereof and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.” - from Psalm 34:1-4

Maybe gratitude is about rights and responsibilities. It's God's right to give or to take away; it's our responsibility to thank Him either way. Every day! We don't have the right to insist upon good health, good relationships, good jobs, good incomes, or anything else in this world, no matter how much we think we “deserve” them. No, our rights are far more significant, like the right to enter the Holy of Holies to worship the Living God! Then there's the right to be adopted into the Heavenly Family, the right to have a place prepared for us, the right to eternal life. Because of our sin, we don't “deserve” these rights either. These rights and many more were purchased for us by Jesus' death on the cross. Therefore, our responsibility is to be ever-faithful, ever-striving, ever-loving, ever-thanking. Nancy DeMoss describes something similar in her book: “These three words – 'guilt,' 'grace,' and 'gratitude' – are at the heart of the gospel. In a sense, they tell the story of the whole Bible.”

Why glad? Along with thanking God for letting me get sick, I of course asked for healing, and naturally I did all I could to get well. But I have found that God puts me in bed for a reason. This time, it was a golden opportunity to practice exactly what I had been reading about, and then to see Him work. It turned out in this case, that this sickness was probably an answer to some of my prayers. Unable to work – thank You, Lord, for extra rest. Very little appetite – thanks, Lord, for a chance to re-set my carb-o-meter. Can't go to events – thank You Lord for more time alone to feed my soul [see last week's post]. As I awoke each day, I felt a little better, and thanked the Lord that I wasn't getting worse! How blessed I am to enjoy good health most of the time, unlike others I know who suffer the majority of their days in unrelenting pain. Whether we are sick or healthy, God must have a reason. Every true believer will suffer some hardship or loss, and also know some true blessing and joy. Either way, am I blessing the Lord at all times? Is His praise continually in my mouth? Are we magnifying the Lord and exalting His name together?

Thinking about these things, and thanking the Lord.

God is faithful, so keep on thanking,

PS Thanks to Kathy Kuhl for recommending Nancy Leigh DeMoss with Lawrence Kimbrough, Choosing Gratitude: Your Journey to Joy. Chicago: Moody Publishers. 2009.

The Weekly Encourager – February 26, 2014 – African Violet

February 26, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

My African Violet plant had lost all its flowers and was slowly dying until a friend gave me some African Violet fertilizer. It was a revelation! The very first week, I saw a positive change, but not as I had expected. I had assumed that all the leaves might get healthier at the same rate, but instead, only the smallest leaves in the very center circle looked fresher. The rest of the plant stayed the same greyish tone. The next week the second concentric circle improved, while the center leaves stayed fresh. This continued week by week: the plant started greening up from the center out! After all the leaves were revived, the first bud appeared, and now there are four delicate flowers open, with more on the way. My son Austin's comment was that I had been feeding the plant only a subsistence diet, just barely enough to keep it alive, but it needed a real meal. Now the plant is beautiful!

The Lord showed me that this African Violet is an accurate picture of my spiritual life. If I don't get fertilizer from the Word of God, prayer, meditation, worship, and godly fellowship, I will die, too. The world around me and the sin within me will suck out all the moisture and my days will feel dry and meaningless. My tasks feel like drudgery and my relationships with others deteriorate. There's a dusty greyness to my attitude, rather than joyous expectation. The disease of sin starts curling up the edges of my leaves, and there are no flowers or fruit to be found.

Just as African Violet fertilizer is carefully crafted for that specific type of plant, the Word of God is tailored to my individual nutritional need. The Holy Spirit, who is present whenever I read, makes it a living Word that speaks straight to my inmost longing. But once is not enough. My soul-soil needs regular application of the right kind of fertilizer. Jesus prayed, “Give us this day our daily bread.” As long as I keep looking to the Lord for nourishment, I'm going to grow. But the moment I stop feeding that plant is the moment it starts dying, from the inside out.

This weekend I saw that it's not enough to go to church. After a fine service of worship on Sunday morning, while still in the building, I immediately fell into my besetting sin! Those of you who know me in person already know what this sin is, but for those of you who have never met me, I'll tell you that my greatest sin is my untamed tongue. My Big Mouth! The particular circumstance this time: I asked a friend to tell me how she felt about a trial she's facing, then as soon as she started to talk, I butted in with a criticism of her! NOT helpful, not listening, not loving. “From the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way.” - James 3:10 NASB I'm afraid I threw acid rather than vitamins on that person's plant. Apparently it's not enough to take part in a wonderful worship service, especially if I hold anger in my heart. I still have to be thoughtful and vigilant about my own sin. I have to be constantly aware of this overwhelming temptation, and call on the Lord to guard me every minute!

But it's not just my tongue. What's the root? “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” - Luke 6:45 ESV Well, that's pretty clear. My mouth is not good or bad of itself, it's how I use it that counts. If selfishness and strife occupy my heart and my mind, that will come out in my speech. Oh, how I need the abundant mercy of the Lord!

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. “ - John 15:4 NASB Clearly I need a direct pipeline to more fertilizer. The African Violet fertilizer is applied to the soil at the base of the plant, where it is taken in by hungry roots immediately. You can see the water disappear from the saucer in a few minutes. The nourishment reaches the inner secret place of the heart first. Everything proceeds from the center. Am I starving my soul? “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.” - Isaiah 55:1 Thank God for the water of forgiveness and new life found in the Lord Jesus Christ!

Have a blooming day,

The Weekly Encourager – February 19, 2014 – Surprised by Hope

February 20, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

We don't grieve as unbelievers do. We grieve with hope! I was sad for days leading up to the funeral service for Anne Falbo, a dear lady and the mother of Linda, a friend from church. I wondered how I would have any comfort to offer Linda and the family. But on the morning of the service, Linda sent the following:

Something from Charles Spurgeon to cheer us this morning.

"The hour is approaching when the message will come to us, as it comes to all—'Arise, and go forth from the home in which thou hast dwelt, from the city in which thou hast done thy business, from thy family, from thy friends. Arise, and take thy last journey.' And what know we of the journey? And what know we of the country to which we are bound? A little we have read thereof, and somewhat has been revealed to us by the Spirit; but how little do we know of the realms of the future! We know that there is a black and stormy river called 'Death.' God bids us cross it, promising to be with us. And, after death, what cometh? What wonder-world will open upon our astonished sight? What scene of glory will be unfolded to our view? No traveler has ever returned to tell. But we know enough of the heavenly land to make us welcome our summons thither with joy and gladness. The journey of death may be dark, but we may go forth on it fearlessly, knowing that God is with us as we walk through the gloomy valley, and therefore we need fear no evil. We shall be departing from all we have known and loved here, but we shall be going to our Father's house—to our Father's home, where Jesus is—to that royal 'city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.' This shall be our last removal, to dwell forever with him we love, in the midst of his people, in the presence of God. Christian, meditate much on heaven, it will help thee to press on, and to forget the toil of the way. This vale of tears is but the pathway to the better country: this world of woe is but the stepping-stone to a world of bliss. Prepare us, Lord, by grace divine, For thy bright courts on high; Then bid our spirits rise, and join" - Charles Spurgeon

How surprising that, having just lost her mother, she should be the one to comfort us!

The same morning, I was reading the next portion in my Bible, and the passage, by God's providence, was I Peter 1.

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”

The combination of Linda's email with words from Spurgeon, and the Apostle Peter's letter with words from God, brought light. Then at the funeral and graveside we were reminded again of our heavenly hope. There is no need now to pray for Anne's soul, for she is with Jesus. Now our prayers are for her family who remain. Instead of feeling more depressed, I actually felt better after that funeral. How different from other funerals we've attended, where the dead person is gone forever and there's only a huge hole in our hearts.

Yes, I still feel the loss of this lady who was such a role model of cheerfulness, trust in the Lord, a successful loving marriage, staying trim and fit even in advancing years, and a warm sincere interest in people. I will miss her at times like the July 4^th Picnic and the Christmas Eve Carol Sing. But she knew Christ, so I know she's in heaven with Him and all the others who have trusted in Him through the ages. I look forward to getting to know her better someday!

“In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.”

How true – I have been “distressed by various trials.” Apparently, it's necessary! But the Spirit reminds me that students are always tested. Teachers don't usually talk during the test, either. The students have to rely on their own knowledge of the material. Even when I don't see Him, I need to love Him and believe in Him. Lord Jesus, thank You for this heavenly hope. Help me to rejoice!

God is faithful,

The Weekly Encourager – February 4, 2013 – Boundaries? Yes and No

February 05, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

“You, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory and the lifter of my head.” - Psalm 3:3 ESV This verse has meant a lot to me over the years, as the Lord has shown me His powerful protection from very real enemies. However, I recently saw a new meaning in the concept of a shield. A shield provides protection against spears of evil, but also a boundary between me and the darts of worry, anxiety, and distress that could pierce my heart and lead to diminished health and joy.

I haven't written an Encourager in a while, mainly because I've needed encouragement myself. In the past few weeks, several friends have confided serious difficulties to my husband and I. Four marriages are troubled by abusive spouses, one marriage is threatened by repeated adultery, one friend just lost her dear mother (who was also our friend), and another friend has terminal cancer. Several parents are struggling with the challenges of children with special needs and/or addictions. One single mother's son committed suicide. Some we know have lost their jobs or their health. Others have really mixed-up relationships, due to unresolved issues from the past. When viewed in the light of these cases, our own struggles sound small, yet they are no less real to us. We want to support and encourage people, yet not get dragged down ourselves. How?

I asked my friend Dr. Jackie Griffith, a Christian counselor and seminary professor, for insight. Since she counsels people with serious problems all the time, I asked her how she maintains her own boundaries. Speaking as a friend, she generously gave her time to encourage me. I thought I'd share some nuggets from our talk. It's good for me to write it again, and it some of it may apply to one of you.

I started the conversation by answering my own question. How do I retain the joy of the Lord while caring deeply for others? I told her I know the answer is to draw near to God and spend more time in the Word and prayer. She affirmed that and gave me more points to consider.

First, God alone can bring about change. I cannot change anyone, not even my husband and children. These hurting friends are God's to heal, not mine. With each case, Jackie says, “I am going to talk to this person then hand that file to God.” I think that's a great analogy: no matter how thick that file gets, it's never too heavy for God! Sometimes I must say to a friend, “You need more help than I can give you,” then refer him/her to a professional. Yes, the Bible calls us to be compassionate, but many passages warn against worry. If a friend or family member leans on me too much, it won't help either one of us. It drags me down and it keeps her from seeking the Lord for a solution. Setting this kind of boundary is hard for me, because empathy comes easily, and I really want to help people. “Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.” Yet sometimes, the best way to help is to say no.

In the case of being caught in the middle between two people, like the husband and wife who were each emailing and calling us to complain about the other, I had already told Dave that the next time they did that, I was going to issue a “cease and desist” order. Dave was okay with that, and so was Jackie. Although my natural tendency is to hear folks out and show my concern, I really should be setting better boundaries. Jackie encouraged me with the idea that if I am the listener I can make rules. I can tell this couple, “Not one critical word against your spouse in my presence.” Obviously, we want to work toward healing and up-building, and discuss the Problem rather than criticize the Person. As Christians, we can set the example of positive speech. Jackie said, don't allow people to downgrade others. The Holy Spirit added, don't allow myself to downgrade others either! (Does this apply to anyone out there besides me?)

Jackie's second reminder was that my personal priority list – where I spend my emotional energy – is set by God: husband, family, work, etc. Her analogy was making a list of all the good things we want to do, or people we want to help. If you genuinely care about people, this list will be longer than you have time and energy to spend. Therefore, you may need to say no to legitimate needs that you have the desire/gifts/skills to meet. Shocking, I know. If I put this boundary into place it may mean not answering every call or email. I will have to cross off the last few items on the list, and trust God to take care of them.

The third encouragement was to develop the peer friendships. I'm still thinking about that one. I do know that God has given different gifts to His Body, and a well-functioning church needs all of them. [Thanks, Jackie!]

How do I maintain the joy of the Lord while still caring deeply for and praying about so many troubled loved ones? Obviously I have a long way to go in this department, but here's what the Lord has shown me this week:

1. Spend quality time with the Lord every day, and go to church every week. Don't skip God when I'm tired or sad – that's when I need Him the most. “Come unto Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” “Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.” “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”

2. Set wise boundaries in relationships, even with those closest to me. At the end of the day, hand off all the files to God. “Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares for you.” “My yoke is easy, My burden is light.”

3. Find the things that bring me joy and make time to do them. Creative down time is absolutely essential to a healthy life. I know this – I tell friends this – now I need to take my own advice. (Is there a Scripture for this?) Set a boundary against too much work.

4. Be grateful. Be content with what the Lord has given me, and thank Him daily for it. “In everything give thanks.” Hold a shield against complaining, criticism, and cynicism. The devil deals in discontent. The children of Israel grumbled, and the Lord led them into the wilderness.

5. Play uplifting music. “I will sing unto the Lord, for He has triumphed gloriously.” “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised.” Set reasonable boundaries against distressing media.

6. Maintain good physical health habits. Jesus had times of rest in between ministering to the lost, sick, and needy. He even withdrew from crowds who were calling out to Him for healing. He is the example of a man with proper boundaries.

Boundaries? Yes, with people and things of this world. I am finite. Boundaries? No, not with God and the things of heaven. He is infinite. God's love, wisdom, goodness, and power are beyond any boundary, beyond any shield, beyond any capacity to measure. His compassion for those who suffer is limitless. It never runs out! It never makes Him tired or depressed! Jesus came to forgive the sinner and heal the sick. The only condition is faith in Him. There is no other boundary. He came to give life abundant. “My cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Lord, You alone can lift my head.

God is faithful,

As always, I welcome you to post comments below.

The Weekly Encourager – January 21, 2014 – What?

January 21, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

What? Last night a Christian friend revealed that, a few days ago, he was led out of his house in handcuffs due to his problem with inappropriate anger, which he has taken out on family members on more than one occasion. Dave and I were shocked, since this man has always appeared calm to us. This soft-spoken, laid-back guy is the last person we would have suspected of that kind of behavior. Despite our surprise and sorrow, it is encouraging to know that God is at work in all this. Severe measures have become a severe mercy: this brother has been humbled by recent events. The wall of secrecy has come down. He is going to counseling. He is finding that he is not alone in this problem; others struggle with the same thing. [Dave and I know some. Do you?] He is trying to make amends to those he has hurt. He freely confessed his problem with anger as sin, so I know that he is forgiven.

What was our reaction? I told him that we still loved him just as much. Dave told him that God is changing him into the image of Christ. We prayed to the Lord for forgiveness and healing for his whole family. Then, as soon as the friend left, Dave and I promptly (predictably?) fell into our own besetting sins, then got angry at each other! Well, so much for godly counsel! Our Christian friend is having to come to grips with a serious issue. I also have a problem with anger, not expressed physically, but just as real. There, but for the grace of God, go I. My heart is as desperately wicked as this friend's heart. I think of that quote: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” That's certainly true of every Christian you meet. This is War, with the world, the flesh, and the devil. We can see that in our friend's household, and we can see it in ours.

What is the answer? Thanks be to God, that even though we keep doing the things we shouldn't do, and we keep not doing the things we should do, there is a Redeemer! If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive our sin. If there's a Romans 7, there has to be a Romans 8. This morning Dave and I knew we were forgiven by Christ, and therefore we could confess our sin to one another, as we have had to do countless times in our marriage. As I've said before, when you get married, you are a sinner and you marry a sinner, then you have little sinners!

What can we do? We need to keep on looking to God on a regular basis to throw off the sin that so easily entangles us. Holy Father, You are the source of power and goodness. Please give us this day our daily bread, not just physically, but spiritually. By faith help us turn to You in times of temptation. Help us depend on You moment by moment, knowing that Your grace alone is sufficient for us, no matter what we are going through. You know what we are facing in each battle and how hard it is for us. But when we are weak, You are strong. Sometimes we have to be humbled by dramatic circumstances in order to fall to our knees and beg God for mercy. Lord, are You making me weak so that I can see that You are strong?

What should be in my heart? “Love is patient and kind...not proud, but gentle and meek....Love is not easily provoked.” Lord, turn our hearts of anger into hearts of love, by Your power and for Your glory.

God is faithful,

As always, I welcome your thoughts.

The Weekly Encourager – January 1, 2014 – New Day, New Year

January 01, 2014 by Janet A. Marney

What has been your experience of this past holiday week? We just returned from our niece's wedding in a distant state. Although we were glad to be able to attend, all four of us were sleep-deprived traveling so far the day after Christmas. I got a bad cold and was coughing all through the event. Unfortunately when I'm tired and sick, I don't have my usual filters on, so I was sniping at my husband and rude to my sons for the entire trip. I did not respond to some stressful set-backs with gracious speech. I was grumpy and I let everybody know it! I arrived home Saturday night not only sick and exhausted, but guilty and heart-sick over my sin. Bad experience.

On the plus side, on this same short trip, I had “a godly appointment” to see a friend I hadn't seen for many years. Before our meeting, I had prayed for an opening to talk of spiritual matters. God answered that prayer! The friend took my crankiness in stride and we were able to get down to some serious topics in our short two hours together. I asked her point blank if she believed in God and Jesus, and she said yes, but I sensed that she still has a lot of guilt. I tried to encourage her, saying that if she believes in Jesus, her sins are forgiven. Good experience.

At home, some key verses came up in the daily devotional I'm doing. They were verses about sin and forgiveness. I realize now that the good and bad experiences of my trip are linked together. It turns out that the simple truth of salvation that I wanted to explain to my friend was the very same simple truth I myself needed to hear! Jesus said, “My son [daughter], your sins are forgiven.” - Mark 2:5 NASB

“He has not dealt with with us according to our sins, nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him, for He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust.” - Psalm 103:10-14 NASB

“Christ has brought you into the very presence of God, and you are standing there before him with nothing left against you – nothing left that he could even chide you for; the only condition is that you fully believe the Truth, standing in it steadfast and firm, strong in the Lord, convinced of the Good News that Jesus died for you, and never shifting from trusting him to save you.” - Colossians 1:22-23 TLB

“What happiness for those whose guilt has been forgiven! What joys when sins are covered over! What relief for those who have confessed their sins and God has cleared their record.” - Psalm 32:1-2 TLB

Thanks be to God that today is a new day, and a new year! Christ, by coming to earth as a man [Merry Christmas], then dying to forgive our sin [Happy Easter], has made all things new. As Spirit fights flesh, He is working all things for good. He's making us into His image and preparing us for Heaven. We are forgiven. We are moving forward. Let the clean slate of this new year remind us all of our clean slate before God.

No matter what else is lacking in your life, if you have forgiveness of sins, it's going to be a Happy New Year!

The Weekly Encourager – December 17, 2013 – Love Incarnate

December 17, 2013 by Janet A. Marney

“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.” - Philippians 2:5-7

On Sunday, Pastor Dave Coffin preached on the incarnation of Christ. Reading from Philippians 2, he noted that the apostle Paul exhorts us to have the same humble attitude as Christ did, then immediately reminds us of the incarnation. As many times as I have read this passage, I had never thought about the connection in quite that way. Dave asserted that understanding the doctrine of the incarnation correctly is a practical necessity for the preservation of the church.

Of course, God taking on human form is a mystery, so there's no way our little brains could comprehend everything there is to know about the incarnation. Yet, bearing God's image, we have minds to help us understand Messianic mysteries now revealed. (That in itself is amazing!) Christ had perfect deity and complete humanity both at once. He had the form of God, possessing all the infinite, eternal, unchangeable qualities that make God who He is, such as goodness, power, holiness, truth. Yet He gave up His rights, making Himself of no reputation.

Note that if Jesus was either not fully man or not fully God, it wouldn't make sense. If He was not fully man, then He wouldn't have shared in our temptation, weakness, and suffering, and His death would have been meaningless. He could not have made the priestly sacrifice which was literally Ultimate. On the other hand, if He was not fully God, yet lived among us, so what? Any little baby can become a man. One regular guy, no matter how good, could not have atoned for all of us. No, He had to be Very God and Very Man.

In His incarnation, Christ is the example of the perfect human being. In His incarnation, Christ is the example of perfect love. Love was His motivation for coming. I always assumed that Christ took on humility along with human form. But if God is Love, and Love is humble, then the Son was already humble before He came. “Love seeks not its own way.” “Not My will, but Thine.” Jesus was the embodiment of true love.

As Dave talked about Christ's attitude in the incarnation, the Spirit filled my heart with thankfulness. Christ was fully God, so He was perfectly loving in all He did. Under the power of love, He esteemed others more highly. This was a sacrificial love. He humbled Himself in birth, mind, power, station, moral superiority. Why did Jesus do this? The answer is in a hymn: “Love caused Your incarnation, Love brought You down to me,” and in a carol: “Thou who art God beyond all praising, all for love's sake, becamest man.” This is not a theoretical God, and the incarnation is not a theoretical concept. This is the God of history, who actually did something amazing. The incarnation was real.

May this Christmas season be a time of understanding more about the incarnation. May this be a time of rejoicing more because we are loved. May we learn more of what it means to be humble. May we honor Him more in all we think, say, and do. Lord Jesus, teach us to love one another with the great love shown in Your incarnation.

Jesus is Love Incarnate. Rejoice!