The Weekly Encourager – March 3, 2016 – Feelings and The Knots Prayer

March 03, 2016 by Janet A. Marney

Is your stomach in knots? Last night at a Bible study on Romans 6, we talked about feelings and the truth of the gospel. Without Christ, we were “slaves to sin,” which amounts to selfishness and a desire to be independent from God; but, in Christ we are “slaves to righteousness,” which brings love, joy, and peace. One mother said that her four-year old daughter told her, “If you don't make me happy, I'm going to leave this house!” Of course everyone laughed, but I thought, isn't this how we are with God?

We say, “God, if You don't make me happy, I'm going to leave Your house.” We so easily believe the lie that, just because He loves us, God is supposed to do just what we want Him to do! If He delays or says no for some reason, we feel perfectly justified in complaining. Ungratefulness is a poison which spreads through the whole system: it can lead to discontent, anxiety, depression, resentment, and disobedience, not to mention its negative effect on everyone around us. If not checked, our emotions can cause us to give up on God, to stop believing in Him, to leave His house.

If ungratefulness is a form of withdrawal from the Lord, then gratefulness is our way to approach Him. “In everything, with prayer and thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.” Prayer interlaced with thanksgiving is the way to peace when our emotions are tying us in knots. Knowledge of the gospel informs our prayers. The more we know about the Lord of Scripture, the more we can trust in Him alone for happiness, no matter what trials we face in our daily lives. When we look at this world and the people all around us, we feel abandoned without the truth of the Bible constantly on our minds.

Feelings can be tricky for believers. Some Christians try to deny or suppress any bad feelings, especially if they seem “wrong.” These are the Sunday-perfect Christians who never show any weakness or problem. On the other side are Christians who express so much emotion that they allow it to take over their lives, sometimes thinking that every strong emotion is a word directly from the Holy Spirit. We have to be careful not to err on either side. A good example is King David: he was transparent about all his various emotions when he prayed to the Lord. He wasn't afraid of honest emotion, yet he didn't allow it to rule him. He always answered emotion with Truth. Feelings are real, but they don't determine Reality.

We fall in the same way, time after time, and we feel guilty or stupid, like slaves to sin. We wonder about which way to go in our lives and we feel lost or abandoned, like children without a home. We have failed relationships, financial trouble, job stress, poor health, or whatever, and we worry, like those who have no salvation. We see the success of others, and we feel jealous, like orphans with no good parent to provide. When will God answer? What if He doesn't want me to be happy? What if I'm just not good enough?

The Bible tells us that the Father created us in love, Jesus loved us enough to die for us, and the Holy Spirit loves us enough to live within our hearts. Tim Keller says, “God is my Judge, and he has accepted me in Jesus Christ.” Paul says, “the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Romans 6:23 How I need this reminder! I am loved, I am accepted, I am adopted, nothing can separate me from the love of Christ!

Today, struggling with depression and seeking direction, needing a good cry yet too tired to cry, I made a list of all the things on my mind which are keeping me from resting. I wrote out the thoughts and emotions which are pulling away my peace. The idea was to commit each concern to God in prayer, renewing my trust in His wisdom, plan, and perfect timing.

Then I saw this prayer posted by my friend Polly, and it was just what I needed today. Maybe you need it, too.

The Knots Prayer

“Dear God, please untie the knots that are in my mind, my heart, and my life. Remove the have nots, the can nots, and the do nots that I have in my mind. Erase the will nots, may nots, and might nots that find a home in my heart. Release me from the could nots, would nots, and should nots that obstruct my life. And most of all, dear God, I ask that you remove from my mind, my heart, and my life all of the am nots that I have allowed to hold me back, especially the thought that I am not good enough. Amen”

- Iyanla Vanzant

Lord, increase our faith! “For Thou art great, and doest wondrous things: Thou art God alone. Teach me Thy way, O Lord; I will walk in Thy truth: unite my heart to fear Thy name. I will praise Thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify Thy name for evermore.” - Psalm 86:10-12

God is faithful,
j

The Knots Prayer, from “Every Day I Pray” by Iyanla Vanzant. For more information, visit http://www.iyanla.com/ or http://concordpastor.blogspot.com/2009/11/knots-prayer.html

I welcome your comments below.

The Weekly Encourager – February 17, 2016 - Role Models and Prayer

February 17, 2016 by Janet A. Marney

As the nation mourns the death of Associate Justice Antonin Scalia of the Supreme Court, I have added him to my list of role models. I did not know him personally, but from all accounts, he combined high intelligence with hard work. He was passionate for the cause of justice. He lived a life of service to the highest ideals of this nation. He had strong friendships with people of diverse viewpoints, including some who opposed him in almost every decision. For these reasons and others, he was highly respected by his colleagues and the world.

Added to that fine reputation, he was not afraid to call himself a Christian, even in one of the highest positions of leadership in our government. For that courage, I believe he will be honored by the Lord's approbation, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” - Matthew 25:23 Here's a Scalia quotation that I've pinned to my Role Models board.

“God assumed from the beginning that the wise of the world would view Christians as fools...and He has not been disappointed....If I have brought any message today, it is this: Have the courage to have your wisdom regarded as stupidity. Be fools for Christ. And have the courage to suffer the contempt of the sophisticated world.” - Antonin Scalia

Who are your role models? If you have young children, who are theirs? On Presidents Day and through the year, it's worth reflecting on the great men and women who have contributed so much to this country and to the world, especially those who honor the Lord Jesus Christ. Let's emulate those who “win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” - Proverbs 3:4 NIV

Justice Scalia's passing is a call to prayer. In the Bible, we are exhorted to pray for all in authority over us, knowing that the Lord places people high and low, according to His plan. - 1 Timothy 2:2; Romans 13:1-5 NOW is the time to pray earnestly for the next person who will be appointed and approved for this key position on the highest court. The next person who bears this mantle will have tremendous impact in decisions before the court at this time: important issues such as abortion facilities, immigration reform, religious non-profit challenges to contraception, affirmative action, union rights, etc. are either already argued or set to be argued this year. And who knows what issues may arise in future years as our country slips away from its Christian heritage? Since all three branches of government are involved in the Supreme Court selection process, there has never been a more urgent need for prayer for the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches.

Challenge: I ask you to join me in praying for our government for just one minute each day. I know we're all busy with many cares and responsibilities, but this is only one minute out of 1,440 minutes we are given each day. The exhortation to not only respect those in government, but to pray for them as well, is a calling from God Himself. This will be one minute of guaranteed obedience to God's command. Think of the impact of thousands of God's people praying daily for His righteousness, goodness, justice, and sovereign plan for this nation! We don't know what God will do, but we know He answers prayer. Will you join me in this challenge?

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – February 4, 2016 – Speaking of Political Candidates…

February 05, 2016 by Janet A. Marney

What do you think about our nation's current candidates for president? Each day's news seems to reveal a new reason to shake my head. Seriously? It's all too easy to think of witty yet cutting remarks about these people because of what they are saying and how they are behaving. After all, I love to make my friends laugh!

What does God think about these political candidates? No, I'm not going to tell you how to vote. I am going to share a few verses from God's Word which I believe are relevant to this campaign. I've been surprised by the way some Christians are speaking of the men and women running for office.

Daniel said, “Let the name of God be blessed forever and ever, for wisdom and power belong to Him. It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings.” Daniel 2:20-21

Anyone who reads the Bible should know that “the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone He wishes and sets over them the lowliest of people.” Daniel 4:17 That last phrase is shocking! For His own reasons, sometimes God allows “the lowliest of people” to be the highest in authority. God is sovereign over all things, including this election. Of course we can work hard to try to elect men and women of honor, but in the end, we must honor all, even if we view them as “lowly.”

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged.” Matthew 7:1-2

“[Neither] thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor slanderers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” 1 Corinthians 6:10 Does it appear that some candidates are greedy swindlers? Note that God puts slanderers (revilers) in the same list! Therefore, if we slander someone, we're just as bad as they are. It's hard, but we must strive to protect the reputations of others, as we would want them to do for us.

“Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you be like him yourself.” Proverbs 26:4 If we call someone an idiot, we are just as foolish as they are. One day, “people will give account for every careless word they speak.” Matthew 12:36

“For the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, meekness, temperance, faith.” Galatians 5:22-23 Does our speech reflect the Spirit of God in our hearts?

Jesus says, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” and not just those of your political persuasion. “Love your enemies!” Mark 12:33; Matthew 5:44

All people are made in God's image; therefore we must respect all, whether or not we agree with them. We are not to lie, but to find a charitable way to express our views, or just remain silent. If the Lord has allowed us to discern that a particular candidate is uninformed, selfish, dishonest, proud, or foolish, then we are allowed an equal opportunity to pray for them. If you see something, pray something!

If we spent half as much time praying for the candidates as we do criticizing them, we'd be far better off as individuals and as a nation. Just saying.

God is faithful,
j

Update on 2016-02-06 15:22 by Janet A. Marney

Please feel free to post comments after each post. The prior problem in posting has been fixed - thanks, Dave!

The Weekly Encourager – January 30, 2016 – Where Is My Treasure?

January 30, 2016 by Janet A. Marney

What is the last thing you think about before you fall asleep, and the first thing that pops into your mind when you wake up? This just might be the thing that dominates your life. For me, in this quiet season of winter, snow and cold have put a damper on some of the interesting activities of life. Sleep is difficult with the brightness of the moon reflected on white snow everywhere. Health issues take more time than I planned. I have much to do, yet little motivation to do it. My body is calling for carbs and comfort, yet I need to work. I feel more like Mrs. Drudge than Mrs. Disciple. In this home-bound sea of sameness, it is tempting to forget God. Yet His promises are true, and they are no less real when I am struggling.

“Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not get tired; they will walk and not become weary.” – Isaiah 40:31
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
“Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” – Matthew 6:33

A challenging thought from Oswald Chambers: “Look again and think.” Citing Matthew 6:25, “Take no thought for your life,” Chambers says, “A warning which needs to be reiterated is that the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lust of other things entering in, will choke all that God puts in. We are never free from the recurring tides of this encroachment. If it does not come in the line of clothes and food, it will come on the line of money or lack of money; of friends or lack of friends; or on the line of difficult circumstances. It is one steady encroachment all the time, and unless we allow the Spirit of God to raise up the standard against it, these things will come in like a flood.

“'Take no thought for your life.' 'Be careful about one thing only,' says our Lord – 'your relationship to Me.' Common sense shouts out and says – 'That is absurd, I must consider how I am going to live, I must consider what I am going to eat and drink.' Jesus says you must not. Beware of allowing the thought that this statement is made by One Who does not understand our particular circumstances. Jesus Christ knows our circumstances better than we do, and He says we must not think about these things so as to make them the one concern of our life. Whenever there is competition, be sure that you put your relationship to God first.” – Oswald Chambers

Is my thought mainly for the duties and difficulties of this life, or the development of the heavenly one? Jesus Christ says, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures upon earth...but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven...for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” – Matthew 6:19-21 These “treasures” can be anything that distracts us from God, whether finances, work, relationships, health, reputation, leisure, education, home, anger, anxiety, fear, laziness, or fatigue.

Jesus told a parable of three servants who were given talents before their master went away. Two went out and used those talents to produce more for their Master, but one buried what he had received. During the “long time” the master was gone, the faithful two were working for the reward. Have you ever wondered what the third guy was doing all that time? He was occupied with the things of this world. Did he have difficult circumstances as we do? Did he have mental or physical problems, financial worries, challenging relationships? Did he have a gambling problem or drug addiction or trouble with the law? Did he live for his own pleasure and comfort, never bothering to exert enough effort to complete a task? (He never made it to the bank!) We don't know his personal story, but you can be sure that his master did. Whatever his circumstances, they were no excuse, because they were sent by God.

Chambers was right: we are tempted to think that Christ could not possibly understand our circumstances, and that excuses our lack of interest in His causes. That excuses our lack of obedience to His commands. That excuses our lack of love for the One who gave His very life to save us! The Bible says He was tempted in every way just like us; He knows our frame, that we are but dust; with every temptation He will provide an escape; trials are sent to build our character; He knows our needs; He cares for us; He will never leave us. The incarnate Christ does understand! Any excuses I offer are idolatry.

What am I storing up? Where is my treasure? If my treasure is not Christ first, Christ always, Christ only, then I will find it ebbing away as a sand castle is flooded by the tide, as snow melts into grass when the sun comes out.

God is faithful,
j

Oswald Chambers, “My Utmost for His Highest” 1935, p.27 January 27 “Look Again and Think.”

The Weekly Encourager – January 21, 2016 – Justification and Two Errors

January 21, 2016 by Janet A. Marney

It's been encouraging to think about the Why of Christmas. Why did Christ come to earth as a man? In Bible Study, we've been looking at justification in Romans 5. The concept of federal headship is helpful. Acting on my behalf, Adam sinned, therefore I sinned. Also acting on my behalf, Christ saved, therefore I am saved. By physical means (DNA), Adam brings death, but by spiritual means (faith), Christ brings life everlasting. Therefore let us rejoice!

Over the years, many well-meaning Christians have fallen into error on one side or another. The legalists focus on God's holiness and the impossibility of us ever meeting His standard of perfection in the Law. Feeling a strong sense of guilt, they try to work off their debt of sin by their own good works, rather than trusting in the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice. Deep inside, they believe Christ's death could not possibly pay for all of their sin. They need to hear more about Jesus our Advocate, and salvation by grace.

On the other hand, the liberalists focus on God's love that covers every sin, no matter what we do. They are more likely to push away any thoughts of personal failing, believing that their mistakes are no big deal since they are saved. Deep inside, they think they're good enough for God already. They may be tempted to take Christ's death far too lightly. They need to hear more about God our Judge, and sanctification by obedience.

Timothy Keller reminds us that “this great doctrine of justification” hangs between these “two opposite heresies,” but “the gospel keeps two truths together.” Here's what Keller says:

“1. God is holy, so our sins require that we be punished. The gospel tells us: You are more sinful than you ever dared believe. To forget this leads to license and permissiveness – to what we might call liberalism. 2. God is gracious, so in Christ our sins are dealt with. The gospel tells us: You are more accepted in Christ than you ever dared hope. To forget this leads to legalism and moralism.

“If you eliminate one or the other of these truths, you fall into legalism or liberalism, and you eliminate the joy and the 'release' of the gospel. Without a knowledge of our extreme sin, the payment of the gospel seems trivial and does not electrify or transform. But without a knowledge of Christ's completely debt-satisfying life and death, the knowledge of sin would crush us or compel us to deny and repress it.”

Do you tend to fall down on one side or the other? How about your church? Your children? I am convinced that the better we understand the great truths of the Bible, the more joy we will have, and the more victory we will experience in our daily lives. Just for today, I will ponder justification and let its implications expand in my mind and heart. Thank the Lord!

Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

God is faithful,
j

Quotation from Timothy Keller, “Romans 1-7 For You,” Chapter 9 “Why Justification Comes,” p.135-136. Published by The Good Book Company, 2014.

Hymn “Jesus Paid It All” by Elvina M. Hall, 1865. Public Domain.

The Weekly Encourager – January 9, 2016 – Burdens and Blessings

January 09, 2016 by Janet A. Marney

Does someone else have an easier life than you do? Would you trade your burden? My friend Anne told me a little story. Imagine that you could take all your pain, sorrows, worries, problems, heartache, and difficult duties and roll them up together into one bundle. Then place your bundle at the foot of the cross of Jesus Christ. Now there's a big pile of everyone's burdens, and you can see what everyone else has to bear. With that new knowledge, would you trade your burden for that of another person? Most people say no. Recall what Galadriel says to Frodo, “This task was appointed to you, Frodo of the Shire. If you do not find a way, no one will.” I was feeling the weight of my load, but after Anne shared her struggles, I saw that both of our bundles are heavy, but we wouldn't exchange them for someone else's bundle of burdens.

Thanks be to God, we do not carry our loads alone. We have “a friend that sticks closer than a brother,” and He is infinitely more capable and experienced at bearing burdens than we are. I've been meditating on Psalm 68:19 “Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, the God who is our salvation.” (NASB) The ESV says He “daily bears us up,” and the NLT says “each day he carries us in his arms.” This is a beautiful picture of God's loving care for His children. Psalm 55:22 says “Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.” (ESV)

Here's a game for the new year. Make two columns on a page. In one column, list all your burdens; in the other column, list all your blessings. Add to the list day by day as new things come to mind, then at the end of the week (or month), see which is greatest. What's your prediction? I suspect that my list of burdens won't change much in a week's time, or even a year. Most of my burdens are long-term in nature, and I'm sure some will challenge me for all my remaining time on earth. My list of blessings, however, will continue to grow day by day as I read God's Word and see His work in the world. The more I know about Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the more I will see my life from a heavenly perspective. Psychologists agree that we grow to resemble the people who populate our life, so the more time I spend in the company of my best friend Jesus, the more I'll be like Him in every way. That means that praise and thanksgiving will become as natural as breathing in and out. I'll see blessings in every bundle!

Do your burdens feel heavy? Here are a few more good thoughts to wrap around your bundle:

Psalm 62:8 “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us.” (ESV)

Psalm 37:3 “Trust in the Lord and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.” (NASB)

1 Peter 5:7 “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (ESV, NLT)

Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (ESV)

Jesus died for you and He loves you, no matter what. Do not let your burdens get so heavy that your heart is closed to God's abundant blessings all around you.

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – January 1, 2016 – Break Forth!

January 01, 2016 by Janet A. Marney

“Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth; break forth and sing for joy and sing praises.” - Psalm 98:4

I confess I found it hard to get in the Christmas spirit this year: 2015 was tough for me and for others I care about. Yet, because of the coming of Jesus, “the Dayspring from on high,” there is hope for a better 2016. Even if the new year ends up being “worse” than the previous one, I have confidence that God is working all to His glory, to conform us to the image of His Son. This God who came as a Child desires a meaningful personal connection with each one of us. He will use whatever means necessary to draw us closer to Himself, to remind us of our utter dependence upon His grace, to cure us of the disease of sin, to bless us with eternal life. What means is He using in your life?

If we believe in Jesus, no matter what our current struggle, the dawning of a new year is a time of rejoicing. It's an annual opportunity to celebrate the new age of Emmanuel, God with us, Light in the darkness. “Good Christian men, rejoice! He hath op'ed the heavenly door, and man is blessed evermore. Christ was born for this!”

“Sing, O ye heavens; for the Lord hath done it: shout, ye lower parts of the earth: break forth into singing, ye mountains, O forest, and every tree therein: for the Lord hath redeemed Jacob, and glorified Himself in Israel.” - Isaiah 44:23

“Break forth into joy, sing together, ye waste places of Jerusalem: for the Lord hath comforted His people, He hath redeemed Jerusalem.” - Isaiah 52:9

Happy New Year!
j

Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light,
and usher in the morning.
O shepherds, shudder not with fright,
but hear the angel's warning:
this child, now weak in infancy,
our confidence and joy shall be,
the power of Satan breaking,
our peace eternal making.

Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light,
to herald our salvation.
He stoops to earth, the God of might,
our hope and expectation.
He comes in human flesh to dwell,
our God with us, Immanuel,
the night of darkness ending,
our fallen race befriending.

- Johann von Rist, 1641

The Weekly Encourager – December 25, 2015 – Christmas Prayer

December 26, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

The Weekly Encourager – December 25, 2015 – Christmas Prayer

This year three families of friends enjoyed Christmas dinner together. Before we sat down to eat, our host read aloud this prayer from “The Valley of Vision,” a fine collection of Puritan prayers.

“The Gift of Gifts”

What shall I render to You for the gift of gifts;
Your own dear Son, begotten not created,
My Redeemer, my proxy, my surety, my substitute;
Self-emptying, incomprehensible;
His infinity of love beyond the heart's grasp.

Herein is wonder of wonders:
He came below to raise me above,
Was born like me that I might become like Him.

Herein is love:
When I cannot rise to Him, He draws near on wings of grace,
To raise me to Himself.

Herein is power:
When Deity and humanity were infinitely apart
He united them in indissoluble unity,
The uncreated and the created.

Herein is wisdom:
When I was undone, with no will to return to Him,
And no intellect to devise recovery,
He came, God-incarnate, to save me
To the uttermost,
As man to die my death,
To shed satisfying blood on my behalf,
To work out a perfect righteousness for me.

O God, take me in spirit to the watchful shepherds,
And enlarge my mind;
Let me hear good tidings of great joy,
And hearing, let me believe, rejoice, praise, adore,
My conscience bathed in an ocean of repose,
My eyes uplifted to a reconciled Father;

Place me with ox, donkey, camel, goat,
To look with them upon my Redeemer's face,
And in Him account myself delivered from sin;
Let me with Simeon clasp the new-born child to my heart,
Embrace Him with undying faith,
Exulting that He is mine and I am His.

In Him you have given me so much
That heaven can give no more.

- Anon. in The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions, edited by Arthur Bennett

There are many good gifts to thank God for, but the first and best Gift of Christmas is Christ. Merry Christmas!
j

The Weekly Encourager – December 15, 2015 – Christmas Comfort

December 15, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse,
and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.
And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him,
the Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and might,
the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.
And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord.

You will say in that day:
'I will give thanks to you, O Lord,
for though you were angry with me,
your anger turned away, that you might comfort me.

'Behold, God is my salvation;
I will trust and will not be afraid;
for the Lord God is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation.'

With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. And you will say in that day:
'Give thanks to the Lord,
call upon his name,
make known his deeds among the peoples,
proclaim that his name is exalted.
Sind praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously;
let this be made known in all the earth.
Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.'

Isaiah 11:1-3; 12:1-6

Too many funerals, so much sorrow. This is my only comfort: in Christmas we see Isaiah's prophecy fulfilled. God has reached down to His people to make a way through the wilderness of pain. This is the promise: in the vast dry desert of grief, there will always be an oasis. Jesus says, Come, fill your cup with living water from the wells of salvation. Let the cup overflow! Don't lose sight of the destination: a home with Jesus, and no more tears. May all our mourning be turned to dancing, and all our heartache to praise.

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – November 24, 2015 – My Pre-Thanksgiving Prayer

November 24, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

Dear Lord, as we approach Thanksgiving, we thank You for all that You are and all that You have done, are doing, and will do for us. Thank you especially for the free gift of salvation, which cost Jesus so dearly. Help us to value You as our chief blessing, never taking for granted the Cross which enabled our justification, sanctification, and eventual glorification. Thank You for Your goodness, mercy and forgiveness!

Heavenly Father, as many of us make preparations for the traditional Thanksgiving feast, make us mindful of the struggles and sorrows of others as we rejoice. If we have been blessed with family and friends, however distant or dysfunctional, help us to get along with them, showing respect to each one, especially those with different opinions, choices, or lifestyles. May potential conflicts be mitigated by Your peaceful presence. May we be instruments of Your peace, knowing when to speak and when to be silent, and when to change the subject. May we show the forgiving love of Jesus Christ to all those we meet during this season. Heal the sick in body or mind. Save the lost; call back the wandering. Be with those who suffer alone, and show us where You are calling us to befriend someone who is hurting.

Good Shepherd, if we have suffered the loss of loved ones, be our comfort and strength. May we share with others whatever good we experienced through those relationships. If they were believers, we rejoice that their day of feasting in Heaven will far exceed our own Thanksgiving down here. Thank You Jesus for being the friend that sticks closer than a brother. Thank You that You will never leave us.

Creator of all, if we have the senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch, we have seen Your majesty, wisdom, power, and beauty in the supreme glory of Your creation. Make us thankful for each sunset we can see, each song we can hear, each person we can touch. Remind us to get outside each day and pause to appreciate what You have made.

Great Provider, if we have been given homes, food, clothing, cars, computers, books, and other material blessings, may we never forget the Giver, from whom every good gift proceeds. At the holidays, we get so busy with extra cleaning, shopping, cooking, planning, preparing, decorating, writing, wrapping, and all the other chores we do, that we sometimes complain about the very gifts You have given us to enrich our lives and enable these celebrations. Remind us that things don't have to be perfect to be special. Remind us that You see and reward our efforts, even when people don't have a clue. Thank You that our privileged position is based on faith in Christ, not on works, that no man should boast. Thank You that we are loved always, no matter what. Teach us to take time to reflect; give us quiet moments of rest when we need them most.

Teacher, may we be good stewards of our time, energy, talents, money, and possessions. Teach us the true value and purpose of each. Help us to remember the lessons You have taught us in times of trial. Make our hearts and hands generous to those in need. Teach us to give thanks every day of our lives.

Amen.

“Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our Thanksgiving.” - W. T. Purkiser

God is faithful and good,
j

The Weekly Encourager – November 17, 2015 – Peace

November 17, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

The Mur pour la Paix (Wall for Peace) in Paris has the word “peace” etched in 32 world languages on glass walls. When visiting Paris in 2013, Dave and I were walking from the Eiffel Tower to the War College when we stumbled upon it. I was struck by its prime location between these symbols of war and peace. To me, the artist's use of glass as a building material was genius. My first thought was the fragility of peace; indeed, some have thrown rocks at the glass and shattered it since the monument went up in 2000. Also, glass is both reflective and clear, depending on the angle. The perspective of peace allows you to see through the glass to the city beyond. From another angle, you see your own face reflected in the glass panels with “peace” across your features. Now, with the terrorist attacks on Paris this past weekend, it has new meaning. I am praying for Paris and for peace all over the world.

Someone asked, How could an all-powerful God let this tragedy happen? The answer goes back to Genesis. God gave free will to all people, so we all sin. Some cheat on their taxes or their spouse, some set off bombs to kill innocent people. God says there will be a day of reckoning, when all evil will be punished. Meanwhile, we must do all we can to resist evil, pray for the lost and the hurting, and show the love of Jesus Christ to all people. This is a great time to share the gospel. As friends and coworkers ask difficult questions, be ready “in season and out” with a Biblical perspective on world events. “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” - 2 Peter 3:9 ESV God often uses times of crisis to bring lost souls to Himself, so we should have faith that God is at work even now. Do not be afraid and do not despair!

What is a valid Christian response to attacks by Muslim extremists on Western (historically Christian) society? The conflict between Christians and Muslims is as old as Isaac and Ishmael. YHWH promised that Abraham's seed would inherit His covenant. Ishmael, born of Abraham's lack of faith, became the father of the Arab nations (most of whom are Muslim now), while Isaac, son of Sarah, became the father of the 12 tribes of Israel. Jesus was a Jew who brought Gentiles into a new covenant relationship with YHWH. As Christians, naturally we disagree with the religious beliefs of Islam.

I am not going to make a political statement here. This blog is not about politics, but about faith, and encouraging the saints. However, when I see things on Facebook like the “church sign” supposedly in “Dearborn, Michigan” with its photoshopped inflammatory message of Muslim hate against our nation, I am disturbed. I do not think Jesus Christ would have us manufacture propaganda to rile up our fellow citizens. Nor do I think He would have us be foolish conduits of false accusations without thought. People beware, not everything you see in print is true! Check sources for actual facts before spreading rumors, whether about Muslims or Christians. The truth, if we can get to it, will speak for itself. The truth is that clear glass wall of peace.

“Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” Christians must be the instigators of peace. First, our hearts are at peace because of faith in Christ. Then, from that vantage point (we are terrorist sinners forgiven by a just yet merciful God), we are to speak the truth in love, not hate. We are to love our neighbors as ourselves, not hate them. We are to pray for our enemies, that they might become our friends. We must do good to them. But when does turning the other cheek become turning a blind eye? I am not an expert on political policy, but I do know this: Christians must treat all people with dignity and respect, for we are all made in God's image. It doesn't matter if we agree with them or not, we must love them! I am dismayed when I hear the hateful way some Christians are speaking of Muslims today.

“Love is patient and kind….love rejoices with the truth...love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures.” - 1 Corinthians 13:7 NLT

Peace between men or nations on this earth is as fragile as a wall of glass. When a big rock hits it, words are meaningless: any words on the glass fall to the ground in pieces. But there is One whose words stand forever. There is One whose victory is sure. Jesus said, “I am leaving you with a gift – peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid.” - John 14:27 TLB

Paul's prayer is also my own, “May the Lord of peace himself give you his peace no matter what happens. The Lord be with you all.” - 2 Thessalonians 3:16 TLB

Peace be with you,
j

The Weekly Encourager – November 11, 2015 – Honor Veterans

November 10, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

Once a year, on Veterans Day, we have a golden opportunity to honor those who fought for our freedom in the face of fear, and their families who stayed behind, offering strong silent support. Please, let us not see this day as just a free day off from work, but as a day to celebrate all the freedoms we enjoy in this great nation. Because of the sacrifices of our military, most of our citizens have no concept of what it would be like to be a refugee from a war-ravaged country such as Syria, trying desperately to find a new country that would accept us, feed us, protect us, and allow us to begin a new life far from the only home we had ever known. Let us take time to thank veterans who endured unspeakable violence in our place, and those at home who lived with constant worry that their loved ones might never return. Let us thank God for men and women of true courage.

“Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.” - Romans 13:7

“It is easy to take liberty for granted, when you have never had it taken from you.” - Vice President Dick Cheney

“It doesn't take a hero to order men into battle. It takes a hero to be one of those men who goes into battle.” - General Norman Swartzkopf

“Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of readiness to die.” - G.K. Chesterton

“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” - Billy Graham

“The sacrifices made by veterans and their willingness to fight in defense of our nation merit our deep respect and praise – and the best in benefits and medical care.” - Sue Kelly, former Member, U.S. House of Representatives

“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” - Proverbs 3:27

Happy Veterans Day,
j

The Weekly Encourager – October 28, 2015 – Mourning the Loss of Who We Were

October 28, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

The Bible says that our identity is in Christ, but what happens when we lose a vital element of who we once were? This topic has come up several times recently. Sometimes the cause of the loss is aging, sometimes it's disease, sometimes it's an accident, but it's always God's will, and that's the hard part.

My friends P. and S., though once lively and active, now live in chronic pain. P's horrible back pain began in her 20s; 30 years later no one has found a cure. S. had a rare disease which affected her ability to stand and walk. After multiple operations on hips and legs over the years, she lives in a wheelchair most of the time because of ongoing severe pain. P. started a ministry to at-risk youth in her community. S. became a great Bible teacher. Both have persevered and developed even sweeter temperaments. Their suffering has been used to spread the gospel.

N., a freshman in college, had a serious accident which damaged 25% of her brain. Formerly a top student who loved school, she now struggles to read and comprehend the most basic assignments. Always a hard worker, she's trying to deal with this life-changing disability and somehow get a degree, but she's angry at God.

E., although still young, had just been promoted to a position of great responsibility in our national government when she started getting severe headaches and other strange symptoms. After a medically challenging year which included brain surgery, she had to resign her position as a senior executive and request disability payments. She's still highly intelligent, but the promising career she loved is gone. She now has “good days and bad days” as symptoms continue. Her cheerful attitude is an encouragement to others, yet I know she suffers.

Our friend asked for prayer as he shared his deepest fear of not being able to play his guitar any more due to illness. He expressed the anguish so well. “It's as if who I am is being stripped away. Since childhood, playing guitar has always been at the root of my self image, of who I perceive myself to be….If I can't express my spirit through my music, I lose the very deepest part of me….It's scary, especially since my most profound experiences with Christ came when my guitar was in my hand....I know who I am in Christ. I just don't know who I am without my guitar. I never even thought of having to ask that question.”

The loss of being able to make music has affected several of our talented friends. H. was a fine professional clarinet player when she had a neck injury which affected her shoulder and arm; she never recovered her former ability. She had to watch while the friend she recommended for a top clarinet position advanced beyond her. Eventually she had to find another career. Another friend who sang professionally with me in the US Navy Band had a lovely alto voice. She was a soloist with the famous Washington Bach Consort, among other groups; she could sing anything from baroque to folk, and do it well. Thyroid cancer ended her career as a musician. She told me that now she can barely sing the congregational hymns in church on Sunday morning.

My husband, a piano player and composer, is losing all feeling in his fingers due to diabetes, and must hurry to record his music before it's too late. For myself it was trauma which took away my singing voice. Music has always been a huge part of my identity: I wrote my first song at age four. Now, instead of being a professional soloist up front, I am reduced to sitting in back of church, where I can serve God by helping new folks learn the songs. I am thankful that I can still sing in a community chorus, but I don't even bother auditioning for solos. After music and childrearing, I decided to get more involved with quilting, but now I have this eye condition which means I can't sew as I once did. Life goes on.

Oh, Lord, what encouragement can I offer to these friends, to myself? Loss of physical and/or mental function will happen to all of us sooner or later, unless we die first! We live in a world where grief is unavoidable. Many have asked, “Why Lord? Why me? Why now?” and the worst, “What's left?”

Here's what I know: Every good gift comes from God, and all our gifts are to be used for the Kingdom of Christ. If God takes away something we love, He wants to replace it with Himself. If God takes away something that's as much a part of our identity as our own name, He wants to give us a new name. He's asking: I gave you this gift, and you praised Me with it; will you still praise Me when this gift is gone? Who are you, really?

I can't speak for my friends, but personally I wonder, Lord, did I put too much faith in the gift, and not enough in the Giver? Did I enjoy the status and respect and opportunities and experiences and income that came to me because of Your gift? Did I ever take it for granted, presuming that I was worthy to receive your blessing, or that my own hard work brought it about? Is this perhaps an answer to my prayer for humility? (As I've said before, Never pray for humility, because that's one prayer God always answers!)

The same Scriptures seem to come to mind, over and over: “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” “Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You I desire nothing on earth.” “Abide in Me, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” “He must increase, but I must decrease.” “Though He slay me, I will yet praise Him.” All I have is Christ. Christ is all I need. It seems that all of my life is about understanding that one concept: it's not about me, but about Him. He calls me to a deeper dependence which will yield a truer testimony. The Lord is calling me to put my faith in Him alone, to find my identity in Him alone, to boast in Him alone, to be content in Him alone. It's so hard, but I am starting to get a clue. Just as I am saved not by my works, but by His grace, I rejoice that I am now a child of God! When all else fails, when I lose my voice, my eyesight, my mind, and everything else, I will still be a daughter of the King. And that is enough.

Thanks be to God!
J

The Weekly Encourager – October 21, 2015 – Back to the Future

October 21, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

Today is the day pictured in the famous 1985 film “Back to the Future” as being way far ahead in the future. October 21, 2015 was the day Marty McFly traveled back to, in order to save his future children. It's a great opportunity for journalists to reflect on how far we've come. The same thing happened when we reached the year 1984, the far-future date of George Orwell's classic dystopian novel “1984” written in 1949. Many of us look back fondly when these milestones are reached; it's fun to compare past writers' visions with what has actually happened in real time. In fact, fiction writers can spur on scientific and technological advances. One example is that when personal cell phones were first made available to the masses, people wanted flip-open devices like they saw on the TV series “Star Trek.” The physical design for phones was actually altered to meet the demands of the public.

While some look back with nostalgia, others look forward with anticipation to a time of scientific ascension when society will be practically perfect. Man is evolving, they say, to be better and better. In the future, wars and disease and poverty and racism will be eliminated. Freed from such ills, human society will be devoted to exploring new worlds and gaining new knowledge, perhaps in cooperation with inhabitants of distant planets. But the Bible says things will only get worse here with great natural catastrophes and multiplying wars, especially in the Mid-East. Into a world of growing darkness, Christ will burst forth like the sun, with healing in His wings. It is only in Heaven that our dreams of peace and plenty will come true.

Christians look forward to the Day of Christ's return. Some people try to predict the exact day based on their interpretation of Biblical prophecy. They want to get into a fabulous time machine vehicle (preferably a smokin' DeLorean) and manually set the date of their next trip. However, the Bible clearly states that no one knows the hour of His coming. It will be as unexpected as a thief in the night. I believe that wanting to know what God has not chosen to reveal is a form of pride. Adam and Eve wanted to know what God had not revealed to them, and that desire led to sin. Like them, we want to have special inside knowledge so that we can control our own destiny and be like God. We don't want to have to depend upon the Word of the Lord for our peace.

So how are we to look back, and how are we to look forward? Simply put, no matter what's happening in the world today, we look back upon the Creation of the world by God the Eternal Father, the Cross where Jesus the Sacrificial Son died, the Gift of the Holy Spirit to live within us, and forward to the Crown of Glory we will receive one day in the presence of the Lord. Technology cannot save us; in fact, it can lead to greater problems (from the Tower of Babel to the atom bomb). Our hope rests in Jesus Christ, who once for all time forgave our sins, past, present, and future. If we trust in Him for salvation, we will be ready for His glorious return, whether it's in 2015 or many years in the future.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The trip to Heaven is the greatest time-travel adventure we can experience, for it will take us to a land without time, Infinity. We're ready! Thanks be to God!

Yours in Jesus, the greatest time-traveller of all time,
j

The Weekly Encourager – October 9, 2015 – “Against Hope Believing in Hope”

October 09, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

This morning I awoke to the news of yet another school shooting, this time at Northern Arizona University. The CBS report mentioned it first in “Today's Eye Opener: your world in 90 seconds,” along with tales of trouble in Congress, severe flooding in South Carolina, Russia's bombs landing in Iran, and a bridge collapse in New Zealand. Closer to home, this week my ophthalmologist told me that my ongoing eye pain may be due to a rare chronic inflammatory disease which has no reliable cure. Last night I started a new medication (my sixth) which is effective in only 30% of cases.

My friends, we live in a fallen world, filled with the effects of sin. People who think society is only improving as we “evolve” into better human beings are delusional! Look around: young people who should be filled with energy, excitement, and anticipation as they train for their future careers are killing one another and themselves. Evidently, this world isn't giving them hope. Oh Lord, save our children!

William Wilberforce was well aware of how horrible this world can be. Wilberforce (1759-1833) was an English Member of Parliament who became a Christian, then a leader in a 20-year struggle to abolish slavery in England. He must have been discouraged at times, yet he hoped in the Lord. His prayer is just as relevant today:

“O Lord, reassure me with Your quickening Spirit; without You I can do nothing. Mortify in me all ambition, vanity, vainglory, worldliness, pride, selfishness, and resistance from God, and fill me with love, peace, and all the fruits of the Spirit. O Lord, I know not what I am, but to You I flee for refuge. I would surrender myself to You, trusting Your precious promises and against hope believing in hope. You are the same yesterday, today, and forever; and therefore, waiting on the Lord, I trust that I shall at length renew my strength.” - William Wilberforce

We need only observe each day's “eye opener” to know that we can't look to this world for hope. Wilberforce's only hope, and ours, is the Lord. “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He will also hear their cry and will save them.” - Psalm 145:18-19 Whether we're being shot down by a gunman targeting Christians, or shot down by Satan's evil darts, we can have confidence in Christ, and His promise of justice and redemption and joy to all who believe in Him. “The Lord keeps all who love Him; but all the wicked, He will destroy. My mouth will speak the praise of the Lord; and all flesh will bless His holy name forever and ever.” - Psalm 145:20-21 God has a plan, and He's working it. Oh Lord, renew our hope.

God is faithful, so keep on praying!
j

http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/eye-opener-deadly-school-shooting-in-arizona/

The Weekly Encourager – September 30, 2015 – A Marriage of Opposites

September 30, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

“There are many ways in which God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work in and through all of us who are his. The Holy Spirit displays God's power through each of us as a means of helping the entire church.” - 1 Corinthians 12:6-7 TLB

I guess it's no secret that my husband and I are opposites; last week a younger woman asked me how we kept a long marriage while having such different personalities. Her question was about marriage, but it applies equally to other relationships, including family members, close friends, and colleagues at work. The Bible says it applies to churches, too.

Trust. I have found that the first key to a successful marriage of opposites is to trust the God who created you both. The people in my life are not there by chance. God has placed each one in my orbit for a purpose. That difficult child or demeaning boss? He's there especially for me, to challenge me to lean on God more and more each day. God's work is to conform believers to the image of Jesus Christ, and His favorite tools are people. I have found that God has given me a husband as well as dear friends who are very different in temperament. For example, some of the things that annoy me the most are inefficiency, disorganization, unpreparedness, and lateness. Yet some of my favorite people have these traits in abundance. Why does the Lord keep putting opposites in my life? Obviously, I need a lot of work in those areas! I need to learn to be gracious, forgiving, understanding, and patient with the “shortcomings” of others, just as my poor friends and family have to put up with my (far worse) faults of impatience, a critical spirit, careless speech, and pride. After all, which is more important to God: being on time, or being kind? Hmmm...

Know. My next word of advice is to know yourself and know the other person. When Dave and I were going through pre-marital counseling, Pastor Steve Smallman gave us each two copies of a personality test. We were to take the test once for ourself, then take it again for the other person, answering in the way we believed the other person would answer. What a wise man Pastor Steve was! Once our results were plotted, the graphs were overlaid on top of each other. In our case, the test revealed that Dave and I were exact opposites on just about all of the nine continuums, but when we answered for the other person, we were right on! This exercise showed that, although we were only 22 years old, we knew each other pretty well. How well do you really know the people in your life?

Respect and Appreciate. Now we get to the third task, which is dependent upon the first two. Looking at our test results, Pastor Steve told us that our very different personalities and skills were complementary. Each partner could supply what was lacking in the other. We could help one another and serve God better together than apart. Dave and I proved the adage that opposites attract. The first time we met, we were drawn to each other as supplying something vital that we needed. Yes, opposites attract, but over the years, I learned that opposites argue! Here's where the hard work comes in. When I am feeling frustrated, it takes discipline to remember the initial attraction that drew me in, to remind myself of his (many) good traits. Along with this, I need to be humble about my own condition. Whatever is bothering me about my husband, I remind myself that something equally bad is bothering him about me! As I've said before, I'm no princess to live with!

The way of death is to forget the good and remember the bad, but that is not God's way. The Bible shows us that there are many parts to the Body, each with its own particular gifts. We can't all be eyes or mouths or feet. We must respect the gifts and calling of others. For a full life in Christ, each is just as valuable as the other, although they may be very different. God calls me to recognize what is good, appreciate it, thank God for it, and thank the other person for it. Adam saw Eve and was grateful to God for her. He was filled with joy. Vive la différence! That is to be my attitude toward my spouse. The world, the flesh, and the devil say Criticism and Complaints. The Holy Spirit says Complements and Compliments.

Pray and Grow. This is an ongoing process. I must continue to trust in God and look to Him for help constantly. I continue to learn about the other person through ongoing communication and observation. I'm open to what God might be teaching me through this. I learn what I can from my husband's or friend's strengths, and I try to become more like him in those areas. We're meant to rub off on each other, so that both benefit.

Above all, I need to ask the Lord for a healthy dose of humility. I dare not make an idol of my own personality type, or the gifts God has given me. As the Spirit convicts me of my own failings, I continue to ask for forgiveness. I try to be thankful: memorize Philippians 4:8 and ask God for the ability to do it! Believers in a marriage of opposites have the opportunity and obligation to demonstrate supernatural unity in Christ. God is faithful, so keep on praying!

My friend asked for some book suggestions, so below are a few that have helped me. I'd love to hear your recommendations, too. Please post them in the Comments section, so that all may benefit.

Have a thankful day,
j

“Discover Your God-Given Gifts” by Don Fortune and Katie Fortune will help you find your strengths and build upon them, including career suggestions and relationship pointers. Very enlightening Biblical approach. See also “Discover Your Children's Gifts” by the same authors.

“The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts” by Gary D. Chapman has been on best-seller lists for years, for good reason. Find out which expression of love means the most to your spouse, friend, or family member.

“Love and Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs” by Emerson Eggerichs is excellent for dating and marriage.

“You Just Don't Understand: Women and Men in Conversation” by Deborah Tannen reveals important male-female differences in how we communicate. A classic, not just for marriages.

“The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict” by Ken Sande is the best book I've read on resolving conflict with anyone, opposite or not.

The Weekly Encourager – September 25, 2015 – Comprehensive Care

September 25, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

Have you looked at your insurance policy lately? How comprehensive is the care you've been promised in case of a medical, home, auto, or financial emergency? When an accident happens, who do you call? You may find that some things you thought would be covered are not. Read the fine print! By contrast, here's the Lord's insurance plan.

Psalm 121 The Lord My Keeper

I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From where does my help come?
My help comes from the Lord,
Who made heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot be moved;
He who keeps you will not slumber.
Behold, He who keeps Israel
Will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord is your keeper;
The Lord is your shield on your right hand.
The sun shall not strike you by day,
Nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all evil;
He will keep your life.
The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in
From this time forth and forevermore.

A recent look at this short psalm revealed that the Hebrew “keep” is used six times in eight verses. It can also be translated preserve, protect, guard, or watch, as a watchman of sheep or cattle, or to put a protective hedge around something. I was struck by how comprehensive the Lord's care is over us. “Day and night” and the mention of both “sun” and “moon” cover any time of day; indeed, the Lord who “never sleeps” is available 24/7 to deal with emergencies. “All evil” covers any bad thing that could happen from external sources; “your soul [life]” includes the inner part of us, which is invisible and most valuable. “Going out and coming in” could refer to our movement about the day's tasks, travel, beginnings and endings, or major decisions such as which job to accept or where to live. “From this time forth and forever” covers all time until the end of time. God's loving care is all-encompassing.

What a contrast to man-made insurance policies! We can be confident that this Old Testament policy covers us, too, because Jesus prayed on our behalf, “Holy Father, keep them in Thy name, the name which Thou hast given Me...I was keeping them in Thy name...I guarded them...that they many have my joy made full in themselves. Keep them from the evil one.” - John 17:11-15 Jesus prays for us still, from His seat next to the Father. In effect, our insurance gets automatic updates.

Paul prays for the saints, “May the God of peace sanctify you...may your spirit, soul, and body be preserved [kept] complete without blame at the coming of Jesus Christ.” - I Thessalonians 5:23 This is echoed in Jude 24-25, “To Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, be glory.” Jesus is the Good Shepherd who keeps us safe. As His personally-selected flock of sheep, we are entitled to His full protection. In fact, He wrote the policy; read the fine print! This policy is permanent and can never be revoked. Even better, the cost of this insurance is already paid in full. So we can rejoice! The same Good Shepherd who will guide us blameless into Eternity will lovingly care for our every need here on earth.

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. Trust in the Lord, and cast all your burdens on Him, for He cares for you. Lord, may we have great joy in Your promises, and peace in Your comprehensive care. May we review the policy often.

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – September 15, 2015 – All I Have Is Christ

September 15, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

“Whom have I in heaven but Thee? And besides Thee, I desire nothing on earth. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” - Psalm 73:25-26 NASB

All I Have Is Christ

VERSE 1
I once was lost in darkest night
Yet thought I knew the way
The sin that promised joy and life
Had led me to the grave
I had no hope that You would own
A rebel to Your will
And if You had not loved me first
I would refuse You still

VERSE 2
But as I ran my hell-bound race
Indifferent to the cost
You looked upon my helpless state
And led me to the cross
And I beheld God’s love displayed
You suffered in my place
You bore the wrath reserved for me
Now all I know is grace

CHORUS
Hallelujah! All I have is Christ
Hallelujah! Jesus is my life

VERSE 3
Now, Lord, I would be Yours alone
And live so all might see
The strength to follow Your commands
Could never come from me
Oh Father, use my ransomed life
In any way You choose
And let my song forever be
My only boast is You

© 2008 Sovereign Grace Praise (BMI) By Jordan Kauflin
To hear this song, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?

The Weekly Encourager – August 31, 2015 – What I Know About Heaven

August 31, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

Grief is hard. I really miss loved ones who are gone. Still, I have a peace about those who knew Jesus. God promises that those who believe in Jesus will have everlasting life, free of pain and sorrow. I grieve the most over those who did not appear to be saved. It's so sad to think they might spend eternity in anguish, yet there is still cause for a ray of hope. Since we know that nothing is impossible with God (repeated eight times in Scripture), He may have had mercy on even the worst rebels in their final seconds of life.

Today I heard the song “Knowing What I Know About Heaven,” by Sarah Darling, for the first time. While it's not great literature, it expresses some good thoughts. What I know about heaven depends on what I know about God. It is His love which makes possible such abundant blessings for those who have died in Christ, and such peace for those who loved them here. The more we know about God, the more His Spirit comforts us in time of loss. May we know Him more and trust Him more each day.

Knowing What I Know About Heaven

[Verse 1]
I bet the trumpets played and the angels sang
Every sweet refrain of amazing grace
And that heaven's hands opened up the gate
And the children danced when they saw your face
As happy as they were to see you coming
I was just as sad to have to watch you go, oh but

[Chorus]
Knowing what I know about heaven
Believing that you're all the way home
Knowing that you're somewhere better
Is all I need to let you go
I could hope that I could pray you back
But why on earth would I do that
When you're somewhere life and love never ends
Knowing what I know about heaven

[Verse 2]
Where every single voice makes a joyful noise
How sweet the sound when the saints rejoice
To every broken heart and every wounded soul
New life begins on streets of gold
With every tear that's raining here from my eyes
I know the sun is shining where you are, oh

[Chorus]
Knowing what I know about heaven
Believing that you're all the way home
Knowing that you're somewhere better
Is all I need to let you go
I could hope that I could pray you back
But why on earth would I do that
When you're somewhere life and love never ends
Knowing what I know about heaven

[Coda]
I could hope that I could pray you back
But why on earth would I do that
When you're somewhere life and love never ends, oh
Knowing what I know about heaven

God is faithful,
j

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yduN-IC7bOA

The Weekly Encourager – August 24, 2015 – Losing Your Hair

August 24, 2015 by Janet A. Marney

My friend is going through chemotherapy and losing her hair. This is understandably upsetting for someone who has had a full head of beautiful thick wavy hair for as long as I've known her. It's always been one of her most attractive feminine features. She wrote, “I rubbed my head when I woke up and something hit my face and I realized my hand was full of hair and it was dropping back onto my face (and was on my pillow).” The next day, “a huge amount came out in the shower, and I emerged looking akin to the Phantom after being unmasked….I had expected losing my hair to be the hardest thing so far and it indeed was.” Then she says it took her a couple of days to let her boyfriend see her without a head covering, but when she finally braved it, “he was so loving and held me when the tears began again, treating me as if I were as attractive as ever – such a dear man. I am so blessed.”

My heart goes out to this dear lady, and I wrote back to her, “You ARE as attractive as ever! The great God who created you has numbered every hair on your head (and on your pillow). He has made you forgiven, accepted, redeemed, and beautiful in Christ Jesus. Yes, it is painful, but the temporary loss of physical beauty is a sign of His deepest love. It will serve to draw you closer to Him, as you bask in the reflected light of His eternal beauty with the true and lasting beauty of a soul who is loved by God. You have always radiated with an inner light; now the Lord will bring that to the fore, unhindered by the distraction of physical appearance. He wants His light to shine out from you as an undeniable witness to those He has placed in your path. I am praying not just for you, but for those around you who do not yet know Him. May the God of all comfort be very near to you in this difficult trial as you cry out to Him. May others see in you the love, joy, and peace of a life in Christ, and long to know Him.”

God says, "I will be glorified." May others see our good works and glorify our Father who is in Heaven. Sometimes, if we're injured, ill, or disabled in some way, the “good work” we do is simply the work of faith. We can't run around and do the traditional active “good works” to help our family, friends, church, and community as we might have done before. Instead, we have more time to read God's word and meditate upon His truth. Our “good work” is to use this time wisely in increased devotion and intercessory prayer, accompanied by a gracious spirit which is yielded to the all-wise will of a loving Heavenly Father. Our sweet spirit shining through suffering will display God's grace to everyone around us.

Now, let me say, I myself have been laid up several times with serious injuries requiring bed-rest, and I did NOT display this sweet gracious attitude which brought honor to Christ! Far from it, as my family and friends will testify. This is my goal, however. Maybe God will keep allowing these injuries until I learn the lesson! God says, I WILL be glorified. He will do whatever is necessary in each of our lives to glorify His name.

Whether we're losing our looks due to cancer or just getting old, it's an opportunity to trust not in the flesh but in the Spirit. Pain and loss can make us weaker or stronger. It all depends on our attitude. My friend with cancer is showing a brave heart that trusts in the Lord and thanks Him for blessings. “I am so blessed.” She's already endured many hard things (not just losing her hair) and her journey is just beginning! Her courage is inspiring. I have no doubt that God loves her so much that He has chosen her to endure this suffering for His name's sake. In all of it, God will be glorified.

God is faithful,
j

“Then Moses said to Aaron, 'This is what the LORD has said: “Among those who are near me I will be sanctified, and before all the people I will be glorified.”' And Aaron held his peace.” Leviticus 10:3

“And he said to me, 'You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.'” Isaiah 49:3

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

“The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.” John 17:22-23

“In order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:11