tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311713982024-03-14T08:20:52.077-07:00Sauni RinehartEncourage. Equip. Edify.Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.comBlogger2489125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-5944807275336148522019-02-15T09:02:00.000-08:002019-02-15T09:02:10.608-08:00Farewell ...<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Faithful readers ...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In 2003, the Lord led me to a ministry (Stonecroft Ministries) and the beginning of an unexpected vocation as a speaker, which in turn led to my writing a few books.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In 2005, I felt called to start a speaking ministry of my own, and thus Triple-E Ministries was born.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In 2006, I began writing this devotional blog.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So much has changed over the last 16 years. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Job changes. New opportunities. And the "biggest" change: My husband and I moved to Tennessee.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">With that move, I prayerfully disbanded Triple-E Ministries (although I do still speak for Stonecroft on occasion).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For the last several months, I've been praying about this devotional blog. I love writing about our Lord and His goodness, but it takes a lot of time writing this blog. Since my readership has consistently dwindled, I have to ask myself if that time would be better spent elsewhere.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm involved in other areas of ministry, including directing the Drama Ministry at my church, and I have an opportunity to write scripts (which satisfies my writer's heart).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So it is with gratitude-and some sadness-that I say farewell. I certainly invite you to revisit previous posts, and feel free to stay in touch via email. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">May I leave you with these words of hope and encouragement:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Lord bless you, and keep you;<br />The Lord make His face shine on you,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And be gracious to you;</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Lord lift up His countenance on you,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And give you peace.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(NASB, Numbers 6:24-24)</span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-69218196978325145112019-02-13T01:00:00.000-08:002019-02-13T01:00:05.661-08:00Hope in God (Psalm 42:11)<br />
<div class="line">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today's
scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+42%3A11&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 42:11</a><br />
<br />
Psalm 42 ends with a question and an answer that have been addressed other
times. The question: "Why are you cast down, O my soul?"<br />
<br />
Our souls are "cast down" for many reasons. Relationships fail. Jobs
end. Health declines. Loved ones leave us. The world continues its downward
spiral.<br />
<br />
When I wake up every morning to unrelenting pain, when I can't even sleep
because of it, it's easy to feel downcast and disquieted. I'm sure you feel the
same way sometimes. Even if it's not physical pain that keeps you up at night,
I know you often feel discouraged.<br />
<br />
It's at those moments that I remember the answer: Hope in God.<br />
<br />
I lift my heart and seek the One—the only One—who gives me hope. My hope in God
comes because I know He loves me, and I know He has a plan for me. I know each
day He gets me out of bed has a purpose.<br />
<br />
And so I praise Him. I praise Him for the breath that fills my lungs. I praise
Him for a job that allows me the flexibility to rest. I praise Him for a
husband who supports me. I praise Him for His word. I praise Him for the hope
that comes when I think about eternity with no pain or tears.<br />
<br />
I'm sure days will still come when my soul is downcast, but I know that I
can—that I <i>will</i>—find my hope in Him.<br />
<br />
If you're feeling downcast and disquieted today, lift your heart to the Giver of
hope. Search His word for verses that lighten the load, that remind you of the
One who loves you more than you know.<br />
<br />
Hope in God.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-14132983623195536352019-02-11T01:30:00.000-08:002019-02-11T01:30:00.906-08:00Feeling Forgotten (Psalm 42:9-10)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+42%3A9-10&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 42:9-10</a><br />
<br />
Many times in my life, I have felt forgotten ... When my dad left our family.
When I was abused. When I couldn't get pregnant. <br />
<br />
While I never doubted God's existence, I doubted if He really loved me or maybe
He'd forgotten me. So, I went on my meandering, twenty-year journey, trying to
find my own way. And even if my enemies hadn't asked, I often did: "Where
is my God?"<br />
<br />
It wasn't until I faced a fork in the road that I realized that God never forgot
me even as I turned my back to Him—over and over again. It was a brisk
September evening over 25 years ago that I realized if I didn't head down
the road of surrendering everything to Him, I would head down the road of
self-destruction.<br />
<br />
Since that September evening, my life has been far from the world's definition
of perfect. <br />
<br />
I still dealt with infertility, which culminated in my not having children of
my own ... but the Lord hadn't forgotten me. He has blessed me with
"children of my heart" who bless me so very much. <br />
<br />
I continue to deal with chronic pain and fatigue ... but the Lord hasn't
forgotten me. He blesses me every day with strength to accomplish what He has
planned for me. <br />
<br />
I have not been forgotten even when the road seems dark; I know He'll shine His
light and guide me.</span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-66915264234445018952019-02-08T01:00:00.000-08:002019-02-08T01:00:00.799-08:00God's Overflowing Love (Psalm 42:6-8)<br />
<div class="line">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today's
scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+42%3A6-8&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 42:6-8</a><br />
<br />
I have a strong affinity for waterfalls. The sound of the crashing water
cascading down to hidden depths is somehow soothing to my soul. I think it's
because it drowns out the world's noise. I find myself more in tune with the
Lord. Some of my favorite trips have involved searching out waterfalls. <br />
<br />
I guess that's why I like verses like Psalm 42:7. <br />
<br />
But I love verses like Psalm 42:8. <br />
<br />
God loves me! He "command[s] His lovingkindness in the day time" ...
He loves me more than I can imagine, and He wants nothing more than me to feel
His love flow over me like water over a fall. He wants His love to saturate me
and fill me so fully that the sounds of the world are drowned.<br />
<br />
I especially love the next part of verse 8: "in the night His song <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">shall<i> </i>be</span> with me ..." You've read that one of my favorite ways to offer praise is through song. But
this verse says something very soothing to my soul. God also sings. He sings
over me and through me. <br />
<br />
Because I of God's love flowing over me and His song with me, I offer a "prayer
to the God of my life." <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-22314544871763508092019-02-06T01:00:00.000-08:002019-02-06T01:00:02.529-08:00A "Cast Down" Soul (Psalm 42:5)<br />
<div class="line">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today's
scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+42%3A5&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 42:5</a><br />
<br />
I honestly don't know how anyone lives without the hope that comes from Jesus
Christ. Waking up every morning without the confidence that a loving God is in
control and has a plan for my life, for my pain ... I wouldn't want to go on
living.<br />
<br />
However, even though I believe with everything I am that God has a purpose for
my pain, there are days when my soul is "cast down" and disquieted.
There are days when the world and all its "junk" attempt to steal my
joy and peace. <br />
<br />
It's on those days that I draw even closer to the Lord, when I spend more time
in His word and in prayer. I praise Him even more through the difficult days.
On those days, I remember those verses that remind me of God's love for me
(<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+31%3A3%3B+John+3%3A16&version=NASB" target="_blank">Jeremiah 31:3; John 3:16</a>), that He has a plan for my life (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+29%3A11-13&version=AMP" target="_blank">Jeremiah 29:11-13</a>),
that He is always with me (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+13%3A5&version=NASB" target="_blank">Hebrews 13:5</a>), that He will give me peace and hope
(<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+5%3A1-6&version=NASB" target="_blank">Romans 5:1-6</a>), that He will always work even the most difficult situations for
good (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8%3A28&version=NIV" target="_blank">Romans 8:28</a>), and that I will one day be with Him in heaven—pain-free
(<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+21%3A3-4&version=NASB" target="_blank">Revelation 21:3-4</a>).<br />
<br />
Yes, days will come when I the pain and weariness of this tired, decaying body
will "cast down" my soul. There are days when the cares of this world
will "disquiet" me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No matter
what, though, I will find my hope in God. I will praise Him as I seek His face.<br />
<br />
I'll make it through those days ... one day at a time.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-84438236537156332912019-02-04T01:00:00.000-08:002019-02-04T01:00:06.894-08:00A Family of Faith (Psalm 42:4)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+42%3A4&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 42:4</a><br />
<br />
I love the fact that when I find myself with a group of Christ-followers, I'm
with family. Since I don't have children of my own, and my own family is spread
across the country, I find myself seeking others to be my "family." <br />
<br />
I've found family at church ("... the house of God") and in small
groups. I've found family in pockets of believers at past jobs.<br />
<br />
There's a reason why we're told not to neglect fellowship with other believers
(I apologize: I'm having a bit of fibro brain this morning and can't remember
the passage this comes from ... I think it's in Hebrews?). Being around other
people who share our faith and believe in our Lord helps us to grow in our own
faith. <br />
<br />
Seeing how the Lord answers others' prayers reminds us that He <i>always</i> does. Hearing stories about His
provision assures us He <i>always</i> will
provide. Reading of how He's miraculously intervened in difficult situations
gives us confidence that He still does miracles today.<br />
<br />
While it is important to be in a good, Bible-teaching church home, we can find
those "multitudes" that lift up "voice[s] of joy and
praise" in so many places. Work. Someone's home.<br />
<br />
Just find that place where you feel surrounded by the love of Jesus. Find that
family.<br />
<br />
You'll be so blessed when you do.</span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-68587881732177156072019-02-01T01:30:00.000-08:002019-02-01T01:30:03.637-08:00Thirsting for God (Psalm 42:1-3)<br />
<div class="line">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today's
scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+42%3A1-3&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 42:1-3</a><br />
<br />
I have been a Christ-follower for a long time now ... and I love to talk with
God and study His word. But I have to admit: I certainly don't "pant"
or "thirst" for Him as I should ... or as I'd like.<br />
<br />
I'm convicted.<br />
<br />
Last Memorial Day, the day on which we remember those who gave their lives
for our freedom, I "googled" the question: "How many have lost
their lives for America's freedom," and one site came back with an
astounding answer: over 1,346,000 ... <br />
<br />
Think about it: over 1.3 <i>million </i>men and women have died so that I—and you—can
freely worship as we choose. We can go to church without fear of arrest ... or
even death. We can display our Bibles, wear t-shirts embellished with verses,
and ask God's blessings as we eat in public.<br />
<br />
We are so very, very blessed. Other Christ-followers don't have anything like
this. They worship in hiding. They risk everything to even own a Bible. They
absolutely "pant" and "thirst" for God. You may have
already seen this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HvgfCNIKp0A" target="_blank">video</a>, but this is such a pure example of thirsting for God.<br />
<br />
I'm convicted.<br />
<br />
Oh, that I would have a deep-in-the-soul hunger for God, to want to be with
Him, to be saturated with His word. <br />
<br /><i>
Lord God, help me to pant after You, desiring an ever-deeper relationship with
You. Let me hunger after You, needing You more than breath. Be my all-in-all.
Be glorified. Amen.</i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-4245710653110490692019-01-30T01:00:00.000-08:002019-01-30T01:00:01.032-08:00My Help and My Deliverer (Psalm 40:16-17)<div class="line">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today's
scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+40%3A16-17&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 40:16-17</a><br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Praising
God, rejoicing in Him ... one of my favorite things to do. And yet, I do often
neglect to do so. It's not because I love Him any less; it's just that I get so
caught up in "stuff." I was especially convicted of this very thing
this morning. <br />
<br />Several years ago, my small group went through Francis Chan's <i>Crazy Love</i>, and one of the study questions asked me to "List
the elements in [my] life that keep [me] distracted [from God]. List both good
things and bad things." As I went through this exercise, I recognized (not
that I didn't already know this) that my distractions stem from pain. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Anyone
who suffers from chronic pain or ill health understands what I mean about its
being a distraction. When you're hurting, often your focus is solely on
"what can I do to manage this pain?" Pain can easily cause a loss of
focus. So, when I'm trying to just function, just get done what needs to be
done, I can lose sight of God's work in my life. I fail to fall at His feet in
praise and worship.<br />
<br />
Yet, the irony is that when I feel the worse is when I need to cling to Him the
most. I need to cry out in my neediness, knowing that He is my "help and
my deliverer."<br />
<br />
I <i>can</i> rejoice in Him. I <i>can</i> magnify His name. And, in fact, if I
keep my focus on Him, those things that distract me lose their hold. </span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-70534626403593889332019-01-28T01:00:00.000-08:002019-01-28T01:00:07.248-08:00A Cry for Deliverance (Psalm 40:13_15)<br />
<div class="line">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today's
scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+40%3A13-15&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 40:13-15</a><br />
<br />
I'm focusing on verse 13 today. Verses 14 and 15 deal with those who were
"seek[ing] to destroy [the psalmist's] life," which is something that
most of us don't experience. However, we <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">have</i>
cried out for deliverance. From pain. From trials. From failing relationships.
From financial difficulties.<br />
<br />
We often need God's deliverance, and as <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The
Message</i> paraphrases, His "intervention." <br />
<br />
While I don't feel attacked by human enemies or those "who wish me
evil," I do know I'm in a battle. I know the enemy of my soul wants to
drag me down and doubt God's love for me. Chronic pain can do that. It can make
me want to give up. My health has been worse than "normal" lately. An
over-flowing "plate" has brought unusual stress (good stress, but
stress all the same), and that stress has caused fatigue and extreme pain. More
than once, I have cried out. <br />
<br />
I have echoed the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">New Living Translation's</i>
interpretation, "Please, Lord, rescue me! Come quickly, Lord, and help
me." On those days when I feel alone, I may use words closer to the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Contemporary English Version's</i>,
"Please show that you care and come to my rescue. Hurry and help me!"<br />
<br />
Although God doesn't remove the pain, He does remind me of His loving presence.
He does give me enough strength to accomplish what I need to ... if just for
that moment or that day. He does "show that [He] care[s] ..." He does
help me.<br />
<br />
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life, then cry out to God. Cry for His rescue,
for His strength, for His help. He will hear you, and He will answer. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-60828124685657649602019-01-25T02:00:00.000-08:002019-01-25T02:00:04.878-08:00Sin ... Forgotten! (Psalm 40:11-12)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+40%3A11-12&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 40:11-12</a><br />
<br />
The Bible tells us that—when we put our faith in Jesus Christ, when we accept
the gift of salvation through His sacrifice—we are forgiven. Sins we've done.
Sins we will do. Not only are our sins forgiven, but they are also forgotten
(<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+103%3A12%3B+Psalm+25%3A7%3B+Isaiah+43%3A25&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 103:12; 25:7; Isaiah 43:25</a>).<br />
<br />
So, if we're forgiven and if God doesn't remember our sin, why do we often live
in regret? Sometimes, we think, "If only I hadn't [fill in the
blank]." Or "I wish I'd chosen this instead of that." We allow
our "iniquities [to] overtake" us. Our "hearts fail"
because we continue to remember our sins ... instead of our salvation. <br />
<br />
This isn't how God wants us to live. He wants us to live with the joy of our
salvation through Jesus Christ. He wants us to experience His "tender
mercies." He wants us to feel His lovingkindness. He wants to
"preserve" us with His truth. <br />
<br />
Psalm 16:11 says, </span></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">
You will make known to me the path of life;</span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">
In Your presence is fullness of joy;</span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">
In Your right hand there are pleasures forever."</span></span></blockquote>
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">
This is how God wants us to live: lives full of joy as we live in His presence.<br />
<br />
He doesn't want us to wallow in the pass or live in regret. He doesn't want us
to be overtaken by sin. Rather, He wants us to be free from sin, living for
Him.<br />
<br />
That's true joy ... forever.<br />
<br />
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<!--[endif]--></span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-72858491098835886512019-01-23T01:30:00.000-08:002019-01-23T01:30:08.375-08:00The Blessing of "Family" (Psalm 40:9-10)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+40%3A9-10&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 40:9-10</a><br /><br />One of the greatest joys I have in being a Christ-follower is that I'm part of
His family. I have brothers and sisters all over the world, and I can rejoice
with them when God works in and through them.<br />
<br />
I love sharing stories of God's faithfulness. It's one of my favorite things to
do. I love <i>hearing</i> stories of His
faithfulness as well. When I'm feeling discouraged or doubtful, sometimes just
hearing about how God has worked in someone else's life gives me hope.<br />
<br />
I think this is one of the reasons God calls us to "assemble" with
other believers. We certainly need to listen to God's word through the teaching
of godly men and women, but it also gives us the chance to hear what God is
doing.<br />
<br />
This is also why it's important to be part of a small group. When you meet with
the same group of people regularly, you share stories. You have a front-row
seat to God's work. I have had the greatest privilege of being part of a small group
for the last two and 1/2 years. We know each other very well. We see God's hand through amazing
blessings, and we see His comfort through the deepest pain. Without fail, my
heart is blessed when I hear of God's righteousness, faithfulness, and
lovingkindness through their stories.<br />
<br />
We really do need to "proclaim" God's faithfulness and not
"conceal" it. Through stories of God's faithfulness, our faith grows.<br />
<br />
If you're not already in a church where you hear truth, I pray you find one. If
you're not part of a small group of believers with whom you can share God's
stories, again, I pray you find one. <br />
<br />
Proclaim His truth. Share His stories. You will be blessed. <br />
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<!--[endif]--></span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-88513688463103952592019-01-21T01:30:00.000-08:002019-01-21T01:30:03.345-08:00Delight in God (Psalm 40:6-8)<br />
<div class="line">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today's
scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+40%3A6-8&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 40:6-8</a><br />
<br />
Sometimes, we Christ-followers focus on all the things we <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">do</i>. We go to church. We tithe. We read our Bibles. We pray. We
serve the community. We're doing, doing, doing. Then we pat ourselves on the
back and say, "Look at everything we're doing for you, God."<br />
<br />
You know something? I'm not certain He's all that impressed. In fact, according
to today's verses (and others like it), God doesn't "desire" our
sacrifices and offerings.<br />
<br />
What does He want instead? He wants us to surrender to Him. He wants us to
"delight to do [His] will." He wants us to keep His "law within
[our] heart[s]." <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hosea+6%3A6&version=NASB" target="_blank">Hosea 6:6</a> tells us that we should "delight in
loyalty rather than sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God rather than burnt
offerings." God wants us to love Him and others: "love Him with all
the heart and understanding and strength, and to love one's neighbor as
himself, is much more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices" (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+12%3A33&version=NASB" target="_blank">Mark 12:33</a>).<br />
<br />
Sometimes, we get so caught in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">doing</i>
that we neglect to just <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">be</i>. Just
being in His presence, listening to His voice, desiring His will.<br />
<br />
Delighting in Him.<br />
<br />
I don't know about you, but I want to delight <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Him</i> ... and so, I'm going to spend some time with Him. Delighting
in His presence.<br />
<br />
I invite you to do the same.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-6689074869190116982019-01-18T01:00:00.000-08:002019-01-18T01:00:03.867-08:00The One and Only True God (Psalm 40:5)<br />
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today's
scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+40%3A5&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 40:5</a><br />
<br />
It is impossible to truly describe the wonder of who God is. He is beyond
measure, beyond human comprehension. <br />
<br />
His works are incalculable. He was before time as we know it, and He'll be long
after time ends. He has created all things. All things. This universe and its
untold mystery. This earth and its incredible beauty. Each animal. Each person.<br />
<br />
Our God is ... indescribable. <br />
<br />
Even the psalms, as amazingly evocative as they are, fail to fully define our
God ... because He's ... well, God.<br />
<br />
That's what I love about our God. If He could be fully known, He wouldn't be
God. I love the mystery of Who He is. I love that His works can't be, as the
psalmist writes, "recounted" or "numbered."<br />
<br />
Instead of knowing Him fully, I can worship Him for His majesty, glory, and
wonder. I can praise Him for the peace and joy I find only in Him. I can kneel
in humble gratitude for His love, grace, and mercy. <br />
<br />
And I can stand in awe of Him ... because He is God, the one and only true God.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-29467902684957063162019-01-16T02:00:00.000-08:002019-01-16T02:00:00.306-08:00Trust God! (Psalm 40:4)<br />
<div class="line">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today's
scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+40%3A4&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 40:4</a><br />
<br />
Since the fall in the Garden of Eden, mankind has had idols. Some idols have
been of wood or gold or bronze. Others have been of flesh.<br />
<br />
We still have our idols today. We hoard our stuff. We pay homage to our credit
cards. We revere celebrities or sports icons. We respect the successful in
business. We spend more time worshipping at the altar of television or the
Internet than we do at the foot of God's throne.<br />
<br />
We don't trust God; we trust our things or other people.<br />
<br />
Then we wonder why we're so discontent. <br />
<br />
I used to give a talk called "Joy Stealers" It's about
those things that are lurking about every corner that want to steal our
God-given joy. One of those "thieves" is discontent. No matter how
much we have, we find ourselves wanting just a little bit more. We envy those
with a bigger house, a better car, or a more prestigious career. <br /><br />I then talked about a couple of ways to "arrest" discontentment:<br />
<br />
The first is to spend time with those less fortunate than we are. For example,
it's difficult to be discontent with our more-than-adequate houses when we
volunteer at a homeless shelter.<br />
<br />
The second is to trust God. If we believe His word and trust that He has a plan
for our lives (see <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+29%3A11&version=AMP" target="_blank">Jeremiah 29:11</a>)—and we surrender our lives to that plan—then
we can rest in the knowledge that whatever we have, whatever we do, is part of
that plan. <br />
<br />
We really are blessed when we "make the Lord [our] trust." He is
faithful and will never let us down. Never.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-64358120013448940012019-01-14T02:00:00.000-08:002019-01-14T02:00:05.191-08:00A New Song (Psalm 40:3)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+40%3A3&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 40:3</a><br />
<br />As I've written many times, one of my favorite ways to worship and praise the Lord is through song. Old
hymns. Contemporary praise. Scripture put to music. My heart seems somehow
closer to Him when I sing. <br />
<br />
Sometimes, I'll read a verse, and a melody will flow. It truly is "a new
song in my mouth ..." I feel such peace and joy in music that I just can't
feel blue or stressed when I'm singing praises to the Lord. <br />
<br />
There are times, though, when I get caught up in "life" and the song
begins to dim, and for me, at least, my faith dims ... just the tiniest bit.<br />
<br />
And so I crank up my favorite playlist, and whether it's the smooth harmony of
the Gaither Vocal Band (who happens to be singing an <i>a cappella</i> version of "Gentle Shepherd" as I'm writing)
or an upbeat MercyMe tune or the profound words of Chris Tomlin, I'm drawn
closer to my Lord.<br />
<br />
The renewed joy I feel permeates my heart and soul ... and it shows. <br />
<br />
I think that's what the psalmist meant when he wrote, " Many will see <i>it</i>
and fear/And will trust in the </span></span><span class="small-caps"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: 115%;">Lord."
</span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Music is a barrier-breaker, a bridge-crosser. It
speaks an international language. When we're full of music that honors and
glorifies God, people can see our joy, and they might just find themselves
attracted to the music ... and to the One who gives the music to us. <br />
<br />
So sing a new song—or an old favorite—in praise to our Lord. Your heart will be
full, and you may just touch someone else's life too!<br />
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<!--[endif]--></span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-29630576116600560162019-01-11T02:00:00.000-08:002019-01-11T02:00:04.018-08:00Out of the Pit (Psalm 40:1-2)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+40%3A1-2&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 40:1-2</a><br />
<br />
I feel so tremendously blessed that we Christ-followers serve a personal God.
Unlike other belief systems where the god or gods they serve are out
"there" somewhere, our God is with us, and He hears us when we call
to Him. He hears our cries.<br />
<br />
When we feel like we've descended to the bottom of a "horrible pit,"
He lifts us up and sets us on a solid "rock," the rock of faith and grace
and strength that comes from our Lord Jesus Christ.<br />
<br />
Every so often, I feel rather "pit-ish." Sometimes, stress and an
over-loaded plate make me more emotional than usual, and even the smallest
things can set me off. I grumble and complain ... if only to myself.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, when I'm in the pit, I recognize something very, very important: Often
in those times, I haven't spent quality time with the Lord. While I may
meditate on the daily devotionals I read, I find I haven't just sat at the feet
of my Lord. When I find myself in these situations, I stop what I'm doing and
rest in His presence for a while. In those moments, He reminds me how blessed I
am, how I am able to do something I love, and how this season is temporary. <br />
<br />
He lifts me out of that "horrible pit" of stress and frustration, and
sets me on the solid rock of His faithfulness. <br />
<br />
What pit are you in today? Cry out to God, lift up your hands, and let Him set
you on His solid rock.<br />
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<!--[endif]--></span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-72863141576835697072019-01-09T02:00:00.000-08:002019-01-09T02:00:09.596-08:00Our Refuge (Psalm 34:8)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+34%3A8&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 34:8</a><br />
<br />As many of you have experienced, the last few weeks were a bit rough ... good, but rough. The holidays can be hectic, and adding to that travel, teaching, and social things, it's been ... well, rough.<br /><br />
I was beyond weary, so I found myself seeking the refuge that only comes from God. I was indeed blessed. He is so good!
I'll admit, more days than usual had me asking for supernatural strength. Jesus
held my hand and walked alongside me ... and carried me more often than not.<br />
<br />
Another of my favorite verses about God's being my refuge is Psalm 46:1:</span></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">
God is our refuge and strength,</span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">
A very present help in trouble.</span></span></blockquote>
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">
I have all confidence that God is with me ... always. When I have difficult
times, He gives me peace and strength. When I'm rejoicing, He's rejoicing along
with me. <br />
<br />
He invites me—and you—to crawl onto His lap and seek refuge in His arms.<br />
<br />
He really is good!</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--></span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-59306684589620343002019-01-07T02:00:00.000-08:002019-01-07T02:00:05.383-08:00Saved from Troubles? (Psalm 35:6-7)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+34%3A6-7&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 34:6-7</a><br />
<br />
A few days ago, I wrote of how God answers prayers. Today's verses might
cause a bit of angst in some people. <i>I
get that God answers prayers,</i> they say. <i>But
one of today's verses says the Lord "saved [this poor man] out of all his
troubles." I'm still in a mess of trouble, so is this really true?<br />
<br />
</i>Some people go to God's word and pull out a verse and then claim its truths
for their own situations ... and then when things don't happen as the verse
promised, they then doubt God's entire word. <br />
<br />
I believe that God always answers prayers. Always. But we live in a fallen,
sinful world, and sometimes, we go through heavy storms. People hurt us. Nature
destroys property. We make poor choices. Troubles abound.<br />
<br />
So, we cry out to the Lord. Does He hear us? Yes! He always hears our cries.
And He always "saves [us] out of all [our] troubles." Really. He
does. It doesn't always mean, however, that He <i>ends </i>the troubles. Sometimes, He
carries us <i>through</i> the troubles we
face. <br />
<br />
My chronic pain hasn't ended, and for reasons only He knows, God continues to
allow it. Even though my pain is relentless, every day, God carries me through
it. He saves me ... every day. <br />
<br />
If you're facing troubles today, cry out to the Lord. Let Him hear your voice,
your pain. Perhaps He'll take the trouble away ... but if not, be confident
He'll carry you through it.</span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-29570263147899399152019-01-04T02:00:00.000-08:002019-01-04T02:00:03.629-08:00Radiance (Psalm 34:5)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+34%3A5&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 34:5</a><br />
<br />
Have you ever watched someone speak of God or (especially) sing a worship song,
and her face is just radiant? Or someone hears stories of God's love, and he glows
with the joy he feels for his Lord?<br />
<br />
I remember vividly when my maternal grandfather used to talk about his Jesus.
He would literally glow with the love he felt. And he loved nothing more than
to tell others about his Jesus. He spent many years as a chaplain at the Los
Angeles Rescue Mission, and even among what many would call the dregs of
society, my grandpa loved them with the love of Jesus. <br />
<br />
One of my greatest joys and honors is to speak about God and His love for us. There's nothing quite like
seeing the faces of those to whom I speak. When I share words of God's love and
grace and mercy, heads nod and smiles grow. There is a radiance to the faces of
those who love God.<br />
<br />
When you speak of the Lord, does your face light up with the joy of knowing
Him? Can you just not help smiling when you think of all He's done for you?
Feel the joy and peace and love that comes only from knowing our God—Father,
Son, and Spirit. And let that joy and peace and love overflow!<br />
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<!--[endif]--></span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-64518339422227374612019-01-02T02:30:00.000-08:002019-01-02T02:30:04.082-08:00God Answers Prayer ... Always (Psalm 34:4)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+34%3A4&version=NASB" target="_blank">Psalm 34:4</a><br />
<br />
One of the greatest blessings in knowing the God of the Bible is the assurance
that He hears my voice. So often, I call to Him in my pain and weariness. And I
know He hears me ... and answers my prayers.<br />
<br />
We who follow Christ have a familiar saying: "God always answers prayers.
Sometimes He says 'yes.' Sometimes He says 'no.' Sometimes He says
'wait.'" But He always answers. Always. <br />
<br />
As I look back over my life, I see times when the answer was immediately <i>yes</i>. For example, our move from California to Tennessee came together so smoothly, it was a clear <i>yes</i>.<br />
<br />
A clear <i>no</i> was my prayer for having a
baby. I prayed for several years, but with a final diagnosis of endometriosis,
I heard God's loving voice say, "No, this isn't My plan for you."
Even in His <i>no</i> for my having a baby,
though, God answered <i>yes</i>. How can
this be? Well, after a while, I changed my prayer to "Lord, if it's not
Your will for me to have a baby, would you please give me peace?" And
that's the <i>yes</i> answer I received.<br />
<br />
I currently live in a waiting season for several of my prayers. I continue to
pray for my husband's salvation. I continue to pray for God's will for my health. I have no indication that God has shut any doors and that I should stop
praying, and so I pray. And I wait.<br />
<br />
God does hear our prayers. He does lovingly listen to our petitions. And He
does answer them ... in His will and in His timing.<br />
<br />
We just have to trust Him. We need to thank Him when He clearly answers <i>yes</i> or <i>no</i> ... or wait patiently until He does.<br />
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<!--[endif]--></span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-76884036307738793022018-12-31T02:27:00.000-08:002018-12-31T02:27:01.359-08:00Exalt and Magnify (Psalm 34:3)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+34%3A3&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 34:3</a><br />
<br />
To magnify is "to make something greater" or "to cause to be
held in greater esteem or respect" (Merriam-Webster's Dictionary). When we
magnify the Lord, we tell of His greatness, of His majesty, of His holiness. <br />
<br />
To exalt is "to raise something to a higher level" or "to praise
highly" or "to elevate by praise" (M-W Dictionary). When we
exalt the Lord, we rightfully praise Him for His many attributes.<br />
<br />
There truly is not god like our God. He is the Creator of the universe, and He
is sovereign over all. He is Alpha and Omega. He sees all. He knows all. He
provides for our needs and is our refuge in the storm. He loves us
everlastingly, and He is with us always. <br />
<br />
He is our healer and giver of strength. He walks alongside us every day ... and
sometimes carries us when we can't take another step.<br />
<br />
He is Savior, Redeemer, and Friend. He is Protector and Guide. <br />
<br />
He is everything.<br />
<br />
So, how can we do anything less than magnify His name? How can we <i>not</i> share His goodness and grace and
mercy with those around us? How can we <i>not</i>
praise Him and exalt Him ... every day?<br />
<br />
Take a moment now and just meditate on His love for you. His provision. His
grace. His mercy. And then spend even more moments magnifying His name and
exalting Him.</span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-62397724184026417042018-12-28T02:25:00.000-08:002018-12-28T02:25:00.725-08:00Boast in the Lord (Psalm 34:2)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+34%3A2&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 34:2</a><br />
<br />
We who follow Christ are so blessed ... so very blessed. <br /><br />First, we are blessed
with life itself. Our bodies are so intricately made, or as the psalmist
writes, "fearfully [awesomely] and wonderfully made" (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+139%3A14&version=NKJV" target="_blank">139:14</a>). <br />
<br />
Second, we are blessed with relationships. Our families. Our friends. God
created us for relationship, and whether we have large, noisy families and a
whole passel of friends or a small, intimate family and just a few close
friends, we are blessed with those people who make us laugh, who grieve
alongside us, who build us up and make us stronger.<br />
<br />
Third, we are blessed with provision of all our needs. We have roofs over our
heads, food in our bellies. We have clothes on our backs. Oftentimes, we're
blessed with even more than what we need ... just icing on the cake.<br />
<br />
So, what does all this blessing have to do with today's verse about
"boasting in the Lord"? When we stop to think of how much God loves
us and how He chooses to bless us, we should rejoice in Him and praise Him,
certainly. But we should also give all glory to Him for whom we are and what we
have. <br />
<br />
Then, when others see how we recognize how He and He alone works in our lives,
when we humbly give thanks for His many blessings, they'll rejoice with us. And
perhaps those who don't know Him themselves may want to meet this God who gives
so much to His children.<br />
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<!--[endif]--></span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-82445076410938676012018-12-26T02:23:00.000-08:002018-12-26T02:23:12.484-08:00Front of Mind (Psalm 34:1)<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today's scripture: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+34%3A1&version=NKJV" target="_blank">Psalm 34:1</a><br />
<br />
I pray you enjoyed a blessed Christmas. Now, let’s get back to the psalms.<br />
<br />
I want to focus on a theme in today's verse: constancy. The psalmist praise the
Lord "at all times" and "continually." I have to admit, I
don't praise Him this way. I do start my day with him (with few exceptions)
because I've found if I don't, it's just too easy to neglect Him. I start with
reading a few devotionals I've found that bless and encourage and (often)
convict. Then I work on whatever my Bible study group is doing. I often have
a secondary study going too. Finally, I spend time in prayer.<br />
<br />
I'm not telling you this to brag; it's just that I've found I need to spend
more time with the Lord ... I'm too easily distracted, and I know I personally
need this time to focus on Him.<br />
<br />
After all my morning time with Him, you'd think the idea of constancy would be
easy ... not so much. I still find myself going through the day, doing my
thing, and rarely do I continually praise Him. Oh, I often end my day in prayer
and praise, but that's several hours after my morning with Him.<br />
<br />
I would love to be able to practice constancy with God. Blessing Him at all
times. Praising Him continually. I can only pray that He draws me closer and
closer, and that I will slowly but surely learn to keep Him front of mind at
all times. <br />
<br />
Because I know I'm front of <i>His</i> mind
... at all times.<br />
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<!--[endif]--></span></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-67226915288084195902018-12-25T02:15:00.000-08:002018-12-25T02:15:23.694-08:00Happy Birthday, Jesus.<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Dear Jesus,<br />
<br />
Words truly cannot express my gratitude for Your willingness to leave heaven
and come to earth. You chose to … <br />
<br />
Put on flesh. <br />
<br />
Be born to a poor carpenter and a teenage bride. <br />
<br />
Experience scraped knees and stomach aches. <br />
<br />
Grow into awkward adolescence. <br />
<br />
Sweat sawing and sanding wood.<br />
<br />
Be tempted by the enemy—Your enemy.<br />
<br />
Be ridiculed as You started Your ministry.<br />
<br />
Be betrayed … arrested … denied … beaten … spat upon … scourged.<br />
<br />
You chose to carry a cross.<br />
<br />
You chose to die …<br />
<br />
And You chose to forgive.<br />
<br />
Words cannot truly express my gratitude. For Your love and grace and mercy.<br />
<br />
But I do thank You. <br />
<br />
Happy birthday, Jesus.</span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31171398.post-88841855202996393002018-12-24T02:13:00.000-08:002018-12-24T02:17:28.861-08:00A Christmas Eve Poem<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">T'was the day before Christmas and all
through the land<br />
All the creatures were shopping–a bit out of hand.<br />
Vying for parking spots and cutting in line,<br />
A theme was recurring, "It's mine, mine, mine, MINE!"<br />
<br />
On Santa's lap, the children did sit.<br />
"I want a doll." "I want a mitt."<br />
"An x-Box, an iPad, oh yes, and a Wii.<br />
"Now that I think of it, give me all three!"<br />
The grown-ups, too, they all wanted their own.<br />
More jewelry, more gadgets to fill up their home.<br />
<br />
In all of the rushing, one thing we forgot.<br />
The one thing, the main thing, that we should have not.<br />
Tomorrow is Christmas, a day most important<br />
To honor the birth of our Savior God sent.<br />
<br />
It's not about presents or music or lights;<br />
No, none of that matters on this night of nights.<br />
Jesus, the Messiah, came with a free gift for us<br />
We must remember in the midst of the fuss.<br />
<br />
The gift of salvation from sin us does save;<br />
It's that greatest gift He so lovingly gave.<br />
From manger to hilltop to cross He did go<br />
All because of how He still loves us so.<br />
<br />
As you revel in the fun and the sights and the sounds,<br />
Remember, dear friends, this thought so profound:<br />
Your Savior, your Lord, came to give you His light,<br />
So have a truly Merry Christmas and a most blessed night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">© 2012 Sauni Rinehart<br />
<br />
NOTE: Come back tomorrow for a special Christmas post.<br />
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<!--[endif]--></span>Sauni Rineharthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752534738441629562noreply@blogger.com0