Great Is Thy Faithfulness

"Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23

 

I guess you might say that the song posted above, Great Is Thy Faithfulness, sung by Chris Rice, is my theme song. Of all the Christian songs that I love, whether they are hymns, contemporary, or Southern Gospel music, this song is at the top of my list. It has powerful depth and meaning to me. 

 

Almost two years ago, when the Lord (and others) began prompting me to do a bit of inspirational writing via a blog, I had no doubt that Great Is Thy Faithfulness would be the name of the blog.  My experiences throughout  life bear witness to the fact that God has been more than faithful to me in every way, even during those times when I have not always been one hundred percent faithful to Him.  So, I gave my blog its' title out of gratitude, and as my own personal testimony of God's constant faithfulness in my life. The message of this song is powerfully uplifting to me. It enables me to live with a spirit of grateful praise each day, no matter what type of circumstances may surround me.

 

I want to briefly introduce you to the writer of this song. Thomas O. Chisholm, was born July 29, 1866 in a crude log cabin in Franklin, Kentucky. From his humble beginning and without the benefit of a high school or advanced education, he somehow began his career as a school teacher at the age of sixteen in the same country school where he had received his elementary school training.  After accepting Jesus Christ as his Savior, he became editor of The Pentecostal Herald and was later ordained as a Methodist minister.  Throughout his long lifetime, Mr. Chisholm wrote more than twelve hundred sacred poems, many of which have since become prominent hymn texts.

 

While many enduring hymns are born out of a particular dramatic experience, Great Is Thy Faithfulness was simply the result of Mr. Chisholm's "morning by morning" realization of God's personal faithfulness in his life.  Shortly before his death on February 29, 1960, Thomas Obediah Chisholm wrote:

 

"My income has never been large at any time due to impaired health in the earlier years which has followed me on until now.  But I must not fail to record here the unfailing faithfulness of a covenant keeping God and that He has given me many wonderful displays of His providing care which have filled me with astonishing gratefulness." 

 

What a wonderful background story of a man who obviously thought about God's faithfulness to him.  Furthermore, down through the ages, countless numbers of people have been extremely blessed to hear his expression of gratefulness through the words of the song.

 

How about you?  Have you thought about God's faithfulness to you recently? Have you thanked Him and expressed your gratefulness for His blessings upon you and your family? I can assure you, that if you but look, you will see  clear evidence of His faithfulness surrounding you at all times.  And, it is GREAT!!

 

PRAYER:  Father God, thank You for Your faithfulness.  You give us strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.  You are faithful to us not just every now and then, but all the times--24/7.  You do not change, nor do Your compassions for us change. For this we cannot help but sing, "Great Is Thy Faithfulness."  Bless each person reading these words, composed by human hands, but with a heart that desires for others to know You in a real and personal way.  Give each one Your joy, love and compassion today. This I pray in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

Information on Thomas O. Chisholm taken from "Amazing Grace-366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions."  Kenneth W. Osbeck

 

Scripture: New International Version

 

 

He Came

 

"Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." Luke 2: 10-11 NKJV

 

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." John 3:16-17  NKJV

 

Merry Christmas to all who read this post! I don't know where the time has gone, but here we are celebrating the birth of Jesus again. 

 

It seems like only yesterday that I was writing a blog entitled "Christmas: Past and Present." During our 2011 Christmas Eve celebration with the children, grandchildren, and extended family members, my husband had asked each of our four children to take turns reading a portion of what I had written.  I was unaware that this was going to be a part of our evening. However, it was apparent that my written words were as meaningful to everyone present as they were to me. Being the sentimental one in the family, I cried as each adult child read their assigned part. :) This Christmas Eve, we plan to read about the birth of our Savior from Luke, Chapter 2.

 

I have posted a song above entitled, "He Came", by Tommy Walker.  Our church choir, praise team, and orchestra presented a beautiful rendition of this song today in the service.  I am so thankful that Jesus came and that God sent His only Son to the earth just for us! Jesus was God; yet man. He lived a sinless life while on the earth. However, the Bible says that He was tempted in every way that we are (Hebrews 4:15). Therefore, He can relate to the joys and the trials that we go through.  

 

Through God's plan, Jesus' humble birth in a stable, His ministry, His death on the cross, and His resurrection were necessary for the redemption of mankind. Jesus was the atoning sacrifice for our sins--past, present, and future. To know what love really is, just look at what He did for us on the cross. None of us are deserving of the depth of His love. But, that's what grace is all about!!

 

Hanging there on the cross, Jesus got what He did not deserve, so that we, who do deserve death, could have forgiveness of our sins and enter into relationship with Him. That relationship is what the Christian faith is all about. Knowing Jesus as our Lord and Savior gives us hope (assurance) of a future life--nothing like the one we have now. This hope of eternal life that we have within us is found in the many promises of God's Word. His resurrection conquered death, left the Holy Spirit to live within us and to guide us in our walk of faith. Through His Word, we are given the assurance that one day we will be with Him in heaven.

 

I pray that you will be filled with God's love, peace, and joy; and that each day throughout the coming year, you will find room in your heart for Jesus Christ. 

 

PRAYER:  Dear God, thank you for sending your Son, Jesus Christ, into the world.  Thank You for a plan to redeem the souls of man.  We know that You love us, because we are Your creation.  Help us to live our lives in such a way that we project the love of Jesus to everyone around us. Help us to stand firm in our faith, for we know that You want us to finish well in our walk of faith here on earth.  Give us strength and Your Spirit to direct us in every aspect of our lives, giving up our own desires for Yours.  These things I humble pray in the name of Jesus Christ.  Amen.

 

Redeemed

 

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16 (NKJV)

"For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God." Romans 3:23 (NKJV)

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23 (NKJV)

"But now, this is what the LORD says--he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine." Isaiah 43:1 (NIV)

For some time now, I have not had opportunities to sit down and write a blog.  My days are filled with good things, but they are full.  My evenings sometimes consist of meetings or catching up on needed household chores.  My husband and I are involved in a ministry that also takes up a significant portion of our time.  Then, throw a few other things into the mix, such as church, consulting business, and caring for a precious 10-month old grandchild each day, and you've got a very busy lady whose time for writing is limited. But, make no mistake about it, I miss my writing time very much, and I miss the opportunity of connecting with those who read my blog. 

 

A couple of weeks ago, my small group leader gently asked if I had stopped writing my blog.  He said, "I used to enjoy reading it." I could not help but feel a bit of sorrow as I assured him that I did not intend to stop writing and that I knew the Holy Spirit would give me a message at just the right time. So, tonight, I sat down to my computer, thinking I was going to write a blog entitled, "When God Has Another Plan." I guess God had another plan for my writing tonight! You will be able to read that one in the future, but as of now, this is what seems to be pressing on my mind.  Perhaps someone out there has a need to read what I have to say.  If so, then my job is done.  So....Bob (small group leader), here goes!!

Because we are all human, there are mistakes and failures along the road of life. We sometimes make poor choices that are not pleasing to our Creator. The Bible calls this sin. It's a word that doesn't sound pretty. It doesn't sound pretty, because sin isn't pretty.  Mentioning sin--talking about it, is also becoming more and more unpopular in today's politically correct society, and even in many churches. But, this word is used over and over in God's Word, because God has never, nor will He ever like sin. Sin is breaking a law of God. He is offended by it and it hurts Him when we sin. But, even still, He loves us.

I suspect there are many people who truly relate and "feel" the words of the song posted above entitled, "Redeemed" by Big Daddy Weave. Yes, I know it isn't a song written by Fanny Crosby or Charles Wesley or some of the other ancient hymn writers, who, no doubt, were inspired greatly by the Holy Spirit. These great hymns have stood the test of time and continue to minister to me, inspire me, and give me great hope through the message of their words.  But, the above song also has a message and I believe the lyrics and music are divinely inspired.  It's about how God can take any one of us and change our lives.  It's about how He can clean us up, and in spite of ourselves, use us in various ministries and give us a testimony of His faithfulness to our lives.  In doing so, we are able to tell others what salvation through Jesus Christ has done for us and can do for them, if they will only believe.

The Christian life does not guarantee that we are spiritually immune to slipping, falling, hurting ourselves and/or others.  But, through our faith in Jesus Christ, there is a process in which the unpleasant sounding word of "sin" can be replaced by one that gives much comfort, assurance, hope, and peace. That word is "redemption." 

 

Webster's Dictionary defines the word "redemption" as follows: "The act of redeeming; rescue; ransom; that which redeems; salvation."  Redemption is the process of being rescued or brought back to the safety of the fold. Redemption brings us to a place of rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

How wonderful to know that God loves us enough to rescue us time and time again when we fail Him.  In human thinking, we might compare it to that of a parent who has gone through many difficult situations with a wayward or rebellious child.  Any loving parent will freely give the love that is deep within their hearts to that son or daughter and welcome them home with open arms.  This is what God does for us.  Jesus is our Shepherd. He cares for His sheep and He will always rescue the one who has gone astray and return that precious one to the safety of the fold.   

How thankful I am to say that I have been redeemed and am not the person I used to be.  Even more importantly, I am thankful that I am not yet who I will be, for God is not finished with me yet! 

PRAYER:  Dear God, thank you for redeeming me through your Son, Jesus Christ.  Jesus, thank you for loving me, for saving me, and for walking with me through this life.  You are everything to me and I love you.  Please bless each person reading this message and bring hope and restoration where needed.  Give peace and comfort in every situation that might arise in each of our lives.  I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.  Amen.

Shelter Me

 

Have you ever been caught in a situation where you needed to find shelter? A long hike, a thunderstorm approaching, not being familiar with your location and a bit of anxiety would certainly be one situation in which physical shelter would be needed. Seeking shelter would be the logical thing to do in order to find proection against the approaching storm.

I first heard the song, "Shelter Me" by Bruce Carroll a few weeks ago as I was listening to Pandora Internet Radio. It really struck a chord with me because many times in my own life I have needed to find shelter from the storms that raged around me. Thankfully, I have always been able to have physical shelter--a safe place that I call home. Rather, my need at times has been to find spiritual shelter. Sometimes, I wandered out in the storm before seeking the familiar shelter that I know all too well. But, eventually, I would round the bend in the road and there it was--a beautiful sight--a place to rest and be safe and comforted. My personal shelter. 

On the many occasions that I have desperately sought the comfort and shelter of God's presence, I have never been disappointed. His Word gives me hope and strength and peace. I am so thankful for this! The deep love that I have for my heavenly Father and for Jesus Christ, my Savior has made such a difference in how I handle difficult situations. The ability to go to Him in prayer and share my hurts and fears gives me the assurance that He is listening and that He answers according to His will for my life and for those around me.  

If you feel the need to seek God's shelter due to situations that are presently surrounding you, or if there are circumstances in your life that seem to be beyond your control, just remember that you have a Savior--Jesus Christ, who wants to bring you peace and hope. He will shelter you from any storm that you may face now or in the future because He specializes in calming the storms. 

PRAYER:  Father God, thank You for sheltering us from the storms of life.  Through Jesus, we have the ability to rest safely in the Shepherd’s arms at all times.  Help us to trust You always, knowing that You love us beyond comprehension.  I pray this in Jesus name.  Amen.  

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me!  For my soul trusts in You; And in the shadow of Your wings I will take my refuge, until these calamities have passed by.  Psalm 55:1 (NKJV) 

A Shelter In The Time of Storm

The Lord’s our Rock, in Him we hide,
A Shelter in the time of storm;
Secure whatever ill betide,
A Shelter in the time of storm.

Oh, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land,
A weary land, a weary land;
Oh, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land,
A Shelter in the time of storm.

A shade by day, defense by night,
A Shelter in the time of storm;
No fears alarm, no foes afright,
A Shelter in the time of storm.

The raging storms may round us beat,
A Shelter in the time of storm
We’ll never leave our safe retreat,
A Shelter in the time of storm.

O Rock divine, O Refuge dear,
A Shelter in the time of storm;
Be Thou our Helper ever near,
A Shelter in the time of storm.

Words: Vernon J. Charlesworth, circa 1880

Music: Ira D. Sankey, circa 1885 

 

 *It was said that this was a fav­o­rite song of the fish­er­man on the northern coast of Eng­land, and they were oft­en heard sing­ing it as they ap­proached their har­bors in the time of storm.

Be Still My Soul

“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10

I LOVE MUSIC! It speaks to me in many ways. It refreshes me and calms my soul. Music makes me happy and joyful, lifts my spirits, and heals any hurt that I might be experiencing at any given time.

Because classical music is something that my husband and I enjoy, for a number of years we held season tickets to the local symphony. Once a month, we looked forward to dressing up, going to dinner, and then spending a relaxing evening at the symphony. It was always exciting to see and hear such talented musicians who were affiliated with the symphony, as well as an array of wonderful guest soloists.  Symphonic music has always been much better than a tranquilizer for me!  And, yet, there is another type of music that motivates my soul in ways that cause me to be amazed and extremely thankful. 

More often than not, much of the inspiration that I receive to write my blog comes as a result of a lyric and/or melody of a Christian song. Most of the time, the melody is secondary to the lyric, because words and their meaning are very powerful. Whether the song is an old hymn that I have known since childhood, or a much “younger” contemporary Christian song, music always offers inspiration and strength in my walk of faith in Jesus Christ.   

The song and beautiful slide show which is posted above entitled, “Be Still My Soul”, sung by Amy Grant, spoke to me tonight. In fact, it caused me to stop what I was doing and led me to focus totally on God.  And, the neatest thing happened! In the stillness of thinking about what an awesome God I serve, focusing on His many attributes, the blessings given so lovingly to me and to my family, and my desire to be all that He wants me to be, my soul was refreshed and renewed.  I was reminded that in my busy days, extra effort should be made to use my time more wisely for Him--to keep singing His songs. 

How is your soul doing tonight?  Are you so rushed and distracted with the things of the world, that you don’t give God the time He deserves?  Of all the things I may or may not know about Him, the one thing that I do know is that He overwhelmingly loves you and me! He created us in His image. He wants to spend time with each of us so that we might know Him and our Savior, Jesus Christ more fully.  He desires a relationship with us like that of a father to a child.  He wants an intimacy with us that will only come when we are still before Him.  He won’t force any of us to come to Him, but if we do, we will find peace, safety, deep joy, and true happiness that will fulfill us not only for the present time, but for eternity.  His love is boundless.  Tonight, why not take time to be still before God.  Think on Him.  Talk to Him. Abide in Him.  He’s there and He is waiting with open arms. 

PRAYER:  Father God, we love You and are so thankful for the opportunity to be still before You.  To know that You are God.  You alone are worthy of our praise.  Thank You for music that soothes our souls. Thank You for songs of faith that lift our hearts and give us inspiration.  Thank You for those who were inspired to write these songs.  In these perilous times in which we live, please reach the world with Your Son, Your Spirit, Your Word, Your music, and Christlike love which can only be exhibited through those of us who profess Jesus Christ to be our Savior and Lord.  I pray this His name, the name above all names. Amen.

Through It All

What a powerful thought as I am reminded that amidst trials and hardships, Jesus has been my source of strength.  It has been through these times that I have learned to depend upon His Word and more fully rely on Him as my help.  God does not always bring us around storms, but walks with us through those times so that we might learn to trust Jesus more fully.  As the words to the song posted above say: "If we never had a problem, then we would not know that God could solve them, nor would we know what faith in Him could do."

 

At this writing, I am still learning to lean on Jesus, and to trust Him as He directs me in ways that I could never have imagined. He is my total source of strength.  I pray that He is the source of your strength today as well.

 

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43:2-3

 

"The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1

PRAYER:  Dear God, thank You for staying beside us through the tough times.  Help those who may be going through such a time to fully rely on You for their strength.  May they place their trust in Christ alone.  In Jesus name I pray.  Amen.

Never Once

This morning at church our worship leader, Terry, sang the song posted above, entitled "Never Once", by Matt Redman. As Terry progressed through the song, how humbling to see people all over the building begin to stand acknowledging the words to this song as applicable to their lives. For me, truer words have never been written. Never once, have I ever been without God's grace, love, mercy, care, and forgiveness. God is definitely faithful and true to His Word. I have never been alone, nor will I ever be.  That's a great place to be!

 

PRAYER:  Dear God, thank You for Your faithfulness and for always always walking beside us through our victories and our struggles.  Thank you for loving us enough to be our constant source of strength and hope.  In Jesus name I pray.  Amen.