spiritualsnippets.com

Seeing life's events in the light of God's Word.

Digging Deeper

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

 

I recently decided to “dig deeper” into the meaning of scripture by apply a technique that I used in college when studying for exams. I have chosen the short, but powerful, verse from Psalm 46 to illustrate.

By emphasizing a word at a time, I can peel back the layers. Here’s what I mean:

Be still and know that I am God.”  (Stop the busyness and striving. I need to listen to Him more and enjoy His presence).

“Be still and know that I am God.” (If I am still, I can know—gain understanding—be sure… )

“Be still and know that I am God.” (I shouldn’t try to be in control. I am not God. He is! I need to trust in Him.) 

“Be still and know that I am God.”  (He’s not just some great and capable person. He is the almighty God… the Creator… our Savior. I need to meditate on who God is… His attributes… wisdom… His power… I need to trust in Him. There is nothing He cannot do!)

By emphasizing a word or phrase at a time, I find deeper meaning and greater understanding. And, as I meditate on scripture, I find myself drawing nearer to HIM.

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Comfort–Even in the Shadows

 

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Psalm 23:4 – “ Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me…”

 

My local church sends out a daily email. In it, members receive prayer needs within the “body,” praises, and other pertinent information.

At times, I am astounded as to the number of people who are ill, recuperating from surgeries, or have concerns for family members.

Sometimes the news is heart-wrenching—the passing of someone dear to all of us.

Are you walking thru the valley of the shadow of death?

Even though the support of friends and family is encouraging—and we are told in scripture that we need to uphold our brothers and sisters in prayer—isn’t it incredible to know that our Creator, Healer, and Savior is there for us when the shadow of death crosses our path or the path of someone we love?

God is there, walking the road with us. He knows the depths of pain and sorrow we are going through. He wants us to cling to Him, as He is ready, able, and willing to bring us peace, even in the face of otherwise overwhelming circumstances.

King David, who wrote Psalm 23, paints a beautiful word picture of what Christians can experience when we lean on the God of all comfort.

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The Sunrise–God’s Reminder

Colossions 4:2– Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.

Our youngest grandson turned nine years old this month. I looked at the envelope in my hand. It was his thank you note for the “big” gift from us—new rollerblades.

Saying thank you is important, whether it’s in person, a phone call, or a written note, like Owen sent. So, how and when do we thank our Heavenly Father for His many gifts?

Hopefully, we don’t wait until a designated holiday rolls around to remind us to thank God for His blessings and for answered prayer. We have so much to be thankful for, on a daily basis, that we need to remember to thank Him every day.

I have been as guilty as anyone for praying petitions—asking for things—but failing to acknowledge Him in words of thanks when my prayers are answered. The Bible reminds us that His mercies are new every morning, so I have started using the sunrise to remind me, daily, to praise and thank God for His abiding love, His provision, and for answered prayer.

Beginning each day with a thankful heart helps me keep the rest of my day in perspective. It doesn’t require stationary, a stamp, or the U.S. Postal Service. I simply need to bow my head each morning to acknowledge my Creator, my Savior, my Lord.

How and when do you thank God? Please leave a comment.

Brenda

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