How Beautiful On That Mountain

Today’s message comes to us from Psalm 48. Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised! Verses 1-3 of the psalm God’s holy mountain, beautiful in loftiness is mentioned. Mount Zion, the city of the Great King is referred to. *In the Hebrew Bible, the Land of Israel and the city of Jerusalem are both referred to as Zion. Other religions use the word Zion to mean “utopia” or “holy place.”*

God’s Holy Place, the Holy of Holies, is where we, through Jesus, have access to the Father. He is a priest and King after the order of Melchizadek. Melchizedek means King of righteousness, and King of Salem means King of peace. (Hebrews 7:25-26) That place is where the presence of God is, and we truly do come away beautiful in loftiness from there-every time we enter in. In speaking of far north, we have to look up and down-seeing Heaven as far North, and hell as South. (Spiritual realms) *two (temporal and spiritual) realms-one being a shadow of the other. Heaven is the fortress there, that we can boldly access when we need to. (Ephesians 3:12) Verses 4-8 give us an idea of what happens when those kings (powers and principalities, and hosts of spiritual wickedness) see us up there. (Eph. 6:12), (Luke 10:19-20) Verse 9 bids us to contemplate God’s steadfast love within the temple. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Just this verse will change your whole life if you let it. Verses 12-14 will make you leap for joy. “March around Zion, encircle her, count her towers, consider her ramparts, tour her citadels, that you may tell the next generation. For this God is our God forever and ever; He will be our guide even till death.” *another version says “He will be our guide beyond death/guide us beyond death. (ESV) A citadel is a fortress that commands. A rampart is a protective barrier. One of the definitions of tower is to rise or reach a great height. There are places in the Bible where, I believe, Zion refers to the children of God. So, whenever we spend time in the presence of God, and as often as we study and walk according to His Word, we are growing into exactly that kind of “city.” (Matt. 5:14) Now are you getting a picture of awesome YOU?! Hallelujah! And we’re to tell the next generation, “This is God!” “This is what God has done, and is doing in my life and yours!” When we do this, we’re not only being obedient, but we’re sowing seeds of hope, fearlessness, and boldness toward God, and about the things of God. Just think-if our children could feel such joy and peace, and grow like that whenever they enter our presence…The world might be changed tremendously overnight.

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We Can Live It

Today’s message comes to us from Psalm 38. King David wrote it for a memorial offering to the LORD. The psalm leads me to Matthew 26:26-Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body. And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Jesus instituted this memorial offering for us at the Last Supper, on the night of His arrest. He also said, “Do this in remembrance of me.” Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and the life is in the blood.

We get a good lesson here on how we need to deal with ourselves, and others, in regard to sin and iniquity. God is a merciful God, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love. First, there’s a picture of what happens when we mess up: There’s no soundness in my flesh, no health (strength) in my bones , and my sin and iniquity is a burden that I cannot bear. It’s too heavy for me! Hallelujah! That’s why Jesus came and bore if for us. God’s indignation over our sin and iniquity is unbearable. When God reveals your sin to you, you will hit your knees and cry out for mercy. Jesus said, “First go and learn what this means: I desire mercy and not sacrifice.”

That brings me to the sacrifice. When we deal with sin and iniquity in anger, and wrathfully, we sacrifice the one (human soul) we’re dealing with. We’re sacrificing their self esteem, sense of worth and capability, trust, courage, peace, and heart. That person is already suffering from the weight of their sin. When we deal with him/her according to God’s way, we’re helping them to realize where they are, and where they belong. This is important. It empowers the boldness needed to confess and repent. It infuses that one with the will and the strength to correct their thinking, attitude, and actions.

What does all that have to do with Jesus? As I studied this psalm, Jesus with the woman at the well comes to mind. I also remember His words over the lame man he healed. “Which is easier to say, ‘”Rise up and walk, or your sins are forgiven you?”‘ Then, there’s the woman caught in the act of adultery. And don’t forget Peter, who denied the Lord three times. I bet Jesus never ever even said, “I told you so.” When we take a moment to read over those events in the Gospels, (and, oh, how I wish I’d known then what I know now!) we’re better able to deal with ourselves, and with others. This is so important in recovery and in overcoming generational curses!

I remember being so afraid as a child, when I messed up. And I know I made my own children afraid, because I was parenting out of the generational curse during high stress times. Thank God for my grandmother! She gave me something to measure myself against. And let me tell you what Jesus taught me through all those events in the Gospels. He taught me that peace is most important; because without it, you cannot realize, recognize, repent, or reinvent.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Saturday Silly – March 27, 2021

With Easter Sunday just a week away, I thought I’d share one of my favorite memories. It’s one of those “kids say…” things. It was during Holy Week that this happened. My sister and I went to services, and I took my then three year old daughter with me. I hadn’t really been in attendance there for awhile, but I wanted to go for Holy Week. She was a perfect little angel, sitting quietly during the service as the pastor spoke. Finally, he finished his sermon, and asked us all to kneel in the pews for prayer. My sister and I got on our knees, but my daughter just sat there. I whispered to her, “Honey, get down here, we need to get on the floor now.” Came the response from my little angel-LOUDLY, of course: “Why? What are we looking for, Mommy?” I heard someone in the pew behind me trying with all his might not to laugh out loud. He could hardly contain himself; and when I turned to look at him, he face was just red from the effort. I think it matched mine. I thought my sister was going to fall over right there in the pew.

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He Think’s He’s Got You Fooled

Today’s message comes to us from Psalm 36. It gives us a picture, again, of evil and evil-doers. Keep in mind, God’s not talking about the average person here. Evil doers are those who choose to embrace evil and do evil rather than good. Verses 1-4 tell us that, “I have a message from God in my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked: There is no fear of God before their eyes. In their own eyes they flatter themselves too much to detect or hate their sin. The words of their mouths are wicked and deceitful; they fail to act wisely or do good. Even on their beds they plot evil; they commit themselves to a sinful course and do not reject what is wrong.” I’m using the (NIV) for this psalm. These people are just as committed to doing evil and harm, as we are to doing good and walking with the LORD/Lord. This is why we have to pray and ask for discernment. This is why it’s so important to know the Word of God, and to know God personally. God’s Word is what we measure everything against. If it doesn’t line up, you’re getting a “head’s up.” We use this standard with everyone, including ourselves. In verses 5-9, King David is recounting God’s goodness toward us, and the abundance of wisdom, peace, love, strength, power, and joy that we have as His children. If you don’t have joy, and you’re a child of God, you need to seek God and figure out what’s going on with you!

I like Verse 11 of this psalm. “May the foot of the proud not come against me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away..” I don’t know how many times I’ve prayed and said, “Lord, please don’t let me let go of you.” Sometimes I’m just like a little kid; slipping my hand out of Daddy’s and wandering off…usually in the wrong direction, and getting lost. That hasn’t happened in quite a while, but, I think that’s only because I pray that when I see trouble coming now. That part about the foot of the proud coming against me, is a two-fold thing. We need to pray that the foot of the proud doesn’t come on us, as well. Something I’ve learned over the years is that, the Word of God makes you more humble. I’m always filled with joy when I get it right; but it never fails to humble me. What a wonderful Savior, to love us so much, and with such patience for us!

Verse 8 is a powerful and inspirational one for me. In terms of family life, we need to cultivate abundance for our souls to feast on, and rivers of delight for ourselves and our loved ones. I think of little niceties and surprises when I think of delights. It’s such a joy to hear the happy squeals and peals of laughter of their joy! I also think of holidays, Four-H events, and the simple Sunday afternoon barbecues. That’s where the soul feasting goes on.

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Which One Will You Be?

Today’s message is Part Two of Yesterday’s message from Psalm 35. We’re picking up at Verse 10, and I’m reading from the ESV. “All my bones shall say, “O LORD, who is like you, delivering the poor from him who is too strong for him, the poor and needy from him who robs him?”

I want to focus on the words, “poor,” and “needy.” I also want to focus on that “from him who robs him,” part of the statement. Do you know that being poor and needy in this psalm means you are lacking something spiritually? King David was not a poor man materially. In (3 John 1:2) we read, “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you (you may prosper) and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul (as your soul prospers). ” That lets me know that I might be, (actually, I am) either my own best friend, or my own worst enemy. My soul is my responsibility. Remember the parable of the sower and the seed in (Mark 4)

How do you deal with the relapse, the slip, the stumble, etc.? (Matthew 9:5) “For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’?” Yes, rise and walk you must. But when you take on guilt, shame, fear, embarrassment, you are taking on so much weight spiritually, that you cannot get up. That’s what the pierced head, hands, and feet of Jesus freed you from. When your mind/spirit/heart/soul is hedged in (crown of thorns), your hands and feet are pretty much powerless. You’re not going anywhere anytime soon. Take responsibility instead. Acknowledge the truth of the situation, but do what you must do to correct it.

When we mess up, we have to speak salvation to our soul. When we speak God’s Word, we are sowing seeds of life giving power into our spirit and soul. Do you remember Jesus’ words on the cross just before He died? “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” God’s Word is God, Himself, coming to your rescue! Be your own best friend, and find every scripture that tells you what you are in God’s Sight! Precious, honored, the head and not the tail, etc. Write them down, and read them out loud’ every day, all day long throughout the day if you have to. Do not take the embarrassment, guilt, or shame! Jesus took that to Hell when He died for you!

This song never ceases to fill my heart with gratitude to the LORD/Lord. I get teary-eyed when I think of Jesus’ love for us. It’s the very same love the Heavenly Father, Himself has for us! Love yourself like they do; you’re worthy! Jesus did that for you! Thank you, Gather Vocal Band! I don’t know where I’d be without you.

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Every Day Bless Him!

Today’s message comes to us from Psalm 34; written by King David. David sure knows how to stir himself up int he LORD, doesn’t he? That’s one of the reasons Psalms is my favorite book in the Old Testament. The very first verse of the psalm ties right in with Friday’s message: Every day, bless the LORD! Every day, Praise the LORD! Every day rejoice in the LORD! (Remember how David danced before the LORD when He was bringing home the Ark of the Covenant?) When we fix our heart, or affix our heart to the LORD and His heart, life becomes a dance. “Maybe God doesn’t want me to have it.” NOT TRUE! “whatever you ask in my Name will be done for you.” (John 16:23) *I know that Lamborghini is on its way! LOL When doubt tries to creep in, we need to oust it by speaking The Word, which is the Truth. David recites a long list of blessings (God’s goodness toward us)

Verse 21 of the psalm not only empowers my faith, but it also sobers me a little bit. “Affliction will slay the wicked and those who hate the righteous will be condemned.” (ESV) Do you suppose this is the very reason we’re to pray for our enemies and bless them? It’s not God’s will that any should perish. That causes Jesus’ words to echo so loudly in my heart. “Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

I think this song is appropriate here. Thank you Carrie Underwood! Such a beautiful rendition.

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Saturday Silly-March 20, 2021

OMG! I don’t know who the heck came up with this holiday, but he, or she is not very smart, if you ask me! It’s National Proposal Day…Okay, first, you cannot tell people when they’re getting married! Secondly, Polygamy is against the law! Thirdly, (I’ll use myself as an example) thirdly, if I married all the single men in America, there wouldn’t be any left for you. Gee whiz, what an idiot!

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Make It A Lifestyle

Today’s message comes to us from Psalms 33. (ESV) We’re told to rejoice in the LORD, and that it is fitting for the upright to praise Him. That lets me know that I can make praise, joy, and thanksgiving a mindset, or attitude. Every praise, every psalm, and every thanksgiving offering begins with a word from your heart. Joy is like anointing oil poured over our spirit; there’s no reason a child of God cannot have joy-even in the deepest darkness; the most adverse circumstance. Remember Paul and Silas singing praises in the prison cell at midnight? Yeah. Joy isn’t always laughter and hullabaloo. Joy is very often being still able to enjoy life, rising out of a deep assurance of, and trust in God. “In the world you’ll have tribulation, but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Simply make a point of rejoicing and giving thanks anyway…every day.

One of the things that gives us that deep assurance is that all of God’s work is done in faithfulness. He doesn’t do what He does to get a rise out of you. He’s not seeking anyone’s approval, of even a desired result. God’s not a manipulator. He does what He does, because it’s to be done. The sowing and reaping principle applies here. Jesus said, “Make the tree good, and the fruit will be good.” (Matt. 12:33) God knows that the fruit will come naturally.

Here’s a powerful revelation. “He spoke and it came to be.” Now apply that to yourself, your mate, your children, you life. What are you saying? “You’ll never amount to anything!” OR “Look what you can do!” See the difference. One is negative and destructive; the other, positive and empowering. “for which is easier to say…” (Matt. 9:5) Here’s the second revelation from this verse. (V-9) “He commanded, and it stood firm.” Another word for “command” is mastery. This comes in when we’re talking about respect and self-respect. If you are going to demand respect, you must command (as in master) respect and self-respect. To be respected, respect and be respectable. Then you will stand firm. Whenever we master God’s word, we reach the next level of strength and glory. Verses 10 and 11 of this psalm are out saving grace. And, thank you, LORD/Lord!!!!! No nation can stand against the LORD; for His counsel stands forever, and “the plans of His heart to all generations. Amen and Hallelujah! When we parent our children, and deal with our loved ones the way God does, they’re less likely to fall victim to false doctrine, falsehood, and strange counsel.

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It’s Powerful!

Today’s message comes to us from Psalms 32. Psalm 32:1-6 “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven; whose sin is covered; the man against whom the LORD counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit is no deceit.” That’s just verses 1 & 2. This is a revelation on how we are to deal with those who transgress against us. First, we are to bless them, in and through the admonition, instruction, love (grace, mercy). Secondly, we cover that transgression by keeping it out of any future dealings with that person. We don’t recite past sins to them. We count no iniquity against him/her; meaning that we don’t automatically assume wicked/evil intent on their part. When we do this the way God does it, we empower truth and destroy deceit. Truth sets you free from sin. Deceit keeps you in bondage to it. Verse 7 lets us know how we need to deal with our children; right from the moment they come to us and confess, or yell, “Oh, oh; Mommy/Daddy!” That’s what God does. Remember the story of the prodigal son? Jesus said there’s more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner that repents! We need to celebrate their strength and boldness in coming to us with the truth; and we need to shout for joy with them when they get it right. Verse 8 is God reminding us that He’ll teach us, so that we can teach our children. All you have to do is stop, drop, and pray. That’ll put out the fire. Verse 9-11 address stubbornness and foolishness, or misunderstanding. A bit and bridle are referred to here. That’s a twofold revelation, though. First, don’t be stubborn and foolish. But, secondly, don’t raise your child as if they’re on a leash, or with a bit and bridle. That’s not only imputing wickedness/foolishnss to them; but it also robs them of the opportunity to learn and grow. Remember, we’re aiming for the admonition of the LORD/Lord. Love, as described in 1Cor. 13, empowers and instills the desire for uprightness of heart. Proverbs tells us to guard our hearts well, for the issues of life flow from them. As parents, we need to guard our children’s hearts. Love protects, love hopes (“I believe in you) That’s what Jesus said to all of us on Calvary.

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After His Likeness

Today’s message comes to us from Psalms 31. It gives us a picture of just how important those standards and boundaries are; and why growing up in the admonition of the LORD/Lord is best. He is, after all, our salvation-every day. (Psalm 31:1) (NIV) “In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. Keep me free from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, Lord, my faithful God.” 1. Know that that trap was set for your child in the garden of Eden. Our children lives are in our hands. What you teach your child today, might just save his/her life tomorrow. We let them down when we do not have standards and boundaries in place, and when we don’t enforce them. These empower us with self-control, peace, boldness, love, knowledge that pertains to daily living (rules, etc.), as well as knowledge that pertains to their needs and wants, fostering their personalities. This would include sports, hobbies, arts, social life, etc. Verse four also gives us a heads-up regarding their friends, teachers, leaders, etc. We need to screen them carefully. When we do this, they can walk powerfully in life. Verses seven and eight tell us this. “I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul. You have not given me into the hands of the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place.” Verse ten lets us know that our attitude toward sin will either empower us, or destroy us. The choice is ours. You iniquity will cause you afflicted by temptation, weakness, and sorrow and grief. As the former wife of a drug addict, I still mourn all the losses this man experienced. And, we all know that water trickles, runs, and rushes downhill, right? Verses 11 & 12 show us, again, how Satan works to twist your thinking, to bend your will, to gain that foothold. This makes me think of a broken vessel, a city suffering for famine of the Word of God. Verse 14-18 give us a prayer to pray in times of weakness and/or stumbling. Verse 19-24 is how every prayer should end. We stir ourselves up in spirit by remembering God’s goodness toward us, and reciting His promises to us. We speak to the mountain!

Proverbs 31 is a picture of the kind of wife – and husband (there is no male of female in Christ Jesus) one should strive to be. I remember tales of my grandmother going out with grandfather to help him with his work; and vice versa. My grandmother would laugh when she talked of my grandfather and how he coddled the children; especially when they were in trouble with Mama. LOL

I did a study on Proverbs 31 last year, and posted it on smashwords.com Here’s the link: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/896505

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