“Praise the Lord!”
May 30, 2008 at 10:16 am | In Christanity, Devotional, Encouragement, Jesus Christ, Praise, Religion | Leave a Comment
Black locust blooms
(Photo by Nancy Martin)
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“After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise Him for the splendor of His holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: ‘Give thanks to the LORD, for His love endures forever’” (2 Chronicles 20:21).
When you are in trouble and face a desperate situation what do you do? Do you worry and fret? I readily confess that this is my built-in emotional default in response to troubles! But when I go to the Faithful One who promises that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” I suddenly remember that there is no obstacle too great or complex for me to overcome through His power.
A fresh example of this came via email two days ago from a faithful reader and personal friend. It blessed us and I believe David’s message will touch your heart as well. We share the following story with his permission:
My heart and prayers go out to you both as Brooksyne recovers. I thought that I might share a story. Seventeen months ago my wife Kelly was in a catastrophic car accident that crushed her hip and broke her pelvis in seven places. Kelly was in the hospital for three weeks. From the very first moments after I got word of the accident I felt devastated. Kelly and I have always been close and the thought of losing her seemed to be overwhelming. And yet as I look back I was remarkably calm – I had to be because at no point in our relationship had Kelly needed me more.
As the days ground on into weeks and months I was called to serve Kelly as never before – giving her constant and intimate care. God used this time to deepen my love for her (I can’t write this without my eyes welling with tears). As a result of this accident our relationship to each other and to God has deepened and we have experienced blessing as never before.
Kelly recovered amazingly quickly defying the odds and the doctor’s projections. She still has some lingering after-effects and occasionally walks with a slight limp – yet she states that she would gladly go through the pain and difficulty of the recovery all over again to experience the blessings that God has given us. Indeed God can and does use all things for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purposes.
The obstacles and major challenges we face in life give us opportunity to trust God and not ourselves when we must go forward and conquer the problem at hand.
The context of our Scripture text reveals a desperate situation faced by the people of God under King Jehoshaphat. They stood opposite a vast army and, militarily, the situation seemed utterly hopeless. Jehoshaphat’s response, prayer, and preparations are a great Biblical lesson for all of us when we face difficult situations.
Perhaps his strangest move militarily was to appoint singers to go before the army! I would imagine to secular war planners this would be considered an insane military move (along with the conquest plans for conquering Jericho and the use of a sling for the mighty giant Goliath). Earlier in the account, in a word from the prophet Jahaziel, God had declared, “You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you” (20:17).
The singers were to proclaim, “Give thanks to the LORD, for His love endures forever.” This strategy worked in a most unexpected way. The very next verse states, “As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes…” (22). God in a marvelous, unexpected way affected deliverance. And that’s how He works on our behalf as well.
Consider the battles you are facing in life. There’s a great principle in today’s text. When we praise the Lord as an act of faith and obedience, we get our eyes off the situation and onto God. We have an oft repeated promise in the Scriptures to claim, “The LORD will be with you.” And indeed He will. The song, “Praise the Lord” sung by The Imperials was popular in the early 80’s. Its theme compliments our message today and we have a link to a video version below. May it bless and encourage you today.
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, when we face struggles with a confident heart instead of a cringing fear we give testimony to Your active power in our lives. There is nothing that we cannot overcome by Your grace as You work out the details and the timing. A whining spirit only leads to self-pity while a thankful spirit visualizes a hopeful outlook. Our confidence grows as we look beyond the current crisis to You, our Great Deliverer, who has done so many wondrous works that the whole world is not big enough to contain the books that would describe Your miraculous, delivering power. Amen.
Brooksyne’s note: While reading this message for the podcast, suddenly I visualized a modern rendering of the Scripture verse. It would be similar to an army general preparing his men for battle. After months and years of strategic training to defeat the enemy they now stand opposite the fierce enemy. Just before they plunge forward with all their latest powerful weaponry and skilled technique they’re ordered to sing out, “This Little Light of Mine, I’m Gonna Let It Shine.” Can you imagine the disbelief and shock the soldiers would experience at such an order. They’d certainly think their commanding officer had lost his mind since he was confusing the battle field with a Sunday School classroom. Surely the soldiers in Jehoshapat’s unit felt similarly, but nonetheless, they obediently followed the singers as they praised the Lord in a song of thanksgiving to God. And, of course, the will of God prevailed and the Israelites conquered their enemy.
Yesterday I heard this riddle: Methuselah was the oldest living man recorded in the Bible yet he died before his father. How could this be? Can anyone tell us? The answer will be in Monday’s message!
The mountain laurel is Pennsylvania’s state flower and covers the mountainsides acre after acre. Generally you see them from a distance while driving along which gives you a stunning view. But up close they have a very beautiful flower, both in the prebloom and blooming stages. I took this photo today from the plant in our back yard.
“Blessed Be Your Name” Audio This song also goes very well with today’s message!
“When The Tears Fall” Video This song has a wonderful message of faith and assurance.“Psalm 34″ Audio Written and sung by Andrew Hostetler, a young musician from a church we spoke at several months ago.
Several wonderful hymns of praise:
“Praise To The Lord, The Almighty” Audio Audio version2
“Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven” Audio “Praise The Mighty Name Of Jesus” AudioToday’s photo: Galen and Nancy Martin have been our friends since we moved to Lancaster County over seven years ago. In fact they invited us for a meal in their 18th century farmhouse the very first Sunday we attended church here. Next week their third son, Darrel, is getting married.
“Springs Of Living Water”
May 29, 2008 at 10:14 am | In Christanity, Devotional, Encouragement, Jesus Christ, Religion | Leave a Comment
Our backyard fish pond
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“For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their Shepherd; He will lead them to springs of living water” (Revelation 7:17).
We have a small fish pond in a flower garden setting behind our house. We’ve photographed many of our visitors with the colorful flowers and pond in the background. The previous owner had put it in and at the present time we have two small goldfish that seem to enjoy living at our place.
One of the challenges in maintaining a small fish pond is keeping the water clear. The algae are persistent and, if you don’t stay with it, it soon turns the pond into a thick soupy green which is not at all appealing. I pump the water through a filter and ultraviolet light. Several days ago I changed the configuration in order to get more water movement and now the filtered water discharges back into the pond at a rather forceful rate. So far this has improved the clarity and the fish seem to like it, being drawn to the specific churning spot where the water pours into the pond directly from the filter.
It was then that Brooksyne and I observed a neat sight. We saw the small 4 inch goldfish jump out of the pond straight up into the stream of water nearly a foot from the pond surface! Initially the stream was discharged close to the side of the pond and I was afraid the fish would jump all the way out so I moved the stream out further into the pond. The little fish just seem to exhilarate in the churning water as the stream enters. I suppose they like the movement or perhaps the oxygenation. I wish I could capture the scene in a photo but, of course, they’re just too quick and I don’t have the patience that good photographers need for such a shot.
As we watched the fish an old hymn came to mind that I rarely hear anymore called “Springs of Living Water.” In fact as I hear the words of the song play in my mind I think of Pastor Howard and the little church I went to as a young Christian back in Independence, Missouri.
The daily Scripture verse gives us a glimpse of heaven.
The Lamb (Jesus Christ) is at the center of the throne. This part of the verse really blesses me in my study. I don’t recall noticing it before. The Lamb who died for our sins on the center cross is now at the center of the throne!
He is the Eternal Shepherd. The first reference to God being our Shepherd is in Genesis where Jacob blesses his son, Joseph, with this testimony: “May the God before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac walked, the God who has been my Shepherd all my life to this day…” (48:15). It’s a consistent theme through Scripture ending with the daily verse.
He leads to springs of living water. Although this is a scene in heaven the living water is available right now to all who believe. Jesus taught, “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him” (John 7:38).
Even as our goldfish seem to enjoy the living water from the stream flowing into our garden pond, so we will be refreshed and reinvigorated as we stay focused on the One at the center of the throne. Let us remain in the stream of God’s living water and keep the Eternal Shepherd at the center of our attention!
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, I confess that there are times when my spirit becomes stagnant after I veer off course and am pulled into the murky waters. Draw me to the cleansing fountain of Your saving blood which flows from the cross of Calvary. It is there that springs of living water quench my thirst and invigorate my spirit so that I am refreshed in the Holy Spirit and renewed in my resolve to follow You all the days of my life.
Last night we had a long time friend stop by for a visit that lasted past midnight. Rick Masciantonio, along with his wife Elizabeth and their three children, were a part of our church in New England.
He taught Sunday School and periodically preached and has been in a prison ministry for 14 years, rarely missing his weekly Bible Study with the prisoners during that entire time! He is a very diligent teacher and has been going verse by verse through Romans and is now into chapter 9. He reminded me of how he got involved in prison ministry through, Floyd Miles, a mutual friend, who worked in the chaplain’s office at the time. Floyd is now pastoring in Indianapolis and I will have the opportunity to preach in his church this August.
Rick is now an associate pastor in his church and is down this way for a Banner Of Truth minister’s conference at Messiah College.
Several of Rick’s sermons are posted on Sermon Audio and here is a streaming version of one of his messages titled, “Come Boldly To The Throne Of Grace” (Audio) Rick is a powerful Bible expositor and his messages aren’t for the faint of heart!
“Before The Throne” Audio
“Come Thou Fount Of Every Blessing”
Audio
“Living By Faith”
May 28, 2008 at 11:32 am | In Christanity, Devotional, Encouragement, Faith, Jesus Christ, Religion | Leave a Comment
This stunning red maple is at the end of our country road.
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“But the righteous will live by his faith” (Habakkuk 2:4).
Have you found yourself earnestly seeking God about a weighty matter over an extended period of time and yet it seems that He is silent. I recall a line from a song that Brooksyne used to sing that honestly expresses, “sometimes we wonder why.” Whether it be on our own personal level or concerning the state of the world we certainly do have questions, some of thosel unanswered till the other side.
Our daily verse is from the prophet Habakkuk, who served God by providing comfort and hope during one of the darkest periods of Judah’s history; a time during which she suffered the deserved punishment for her sins. Judah had just experienced the exhilaration of the glorious days of King Josiah, marked by freedom, prosperity, and a great religious revival. The Assyrians, once the scourge of the Middle East, were phasing out as a world power. In their place, however, stood the Babylonians, (whom Habakkuk calls the Chaldeans, named for the region from which their rulers came.) The Babylonian armies were led by the ambitious Nebuchadnezzar, who would soon succeed his father as king.
Habakkuk asked God questions and God eventually answered. He revealed that He was at work sending the Chaldeans as the instrument of His judgment (1:5-11). The prophet shrank from such an idea and posed another question which essentially asks: “Lord, how can you use someone more sinful than we are to punish us?” (1:12-17).
When the answer was not forthcoming immediately, he took his stand in the watchtower to wait for it. It was worth the wait: “See, he is puffed up; his desires are not upright– but the righteous will live by his faith” (Habakkuk 2:4). God contrasts the proud and ungodly whose lives are not upright with the righteous who in the end will emerge victorious. Here the term “faith” has the sense of faithfulness or conviction that results in action.
Habakkuk, in his experience of waiting, bluntly asked the Lord, “How long, O Lord, must I call for help, but You do not listen?” When God finally answered, it certainly wasn’t the answer Habakkuk expected or longed for.
You see, the Israelites had a “recurring cycle of sin, sorrow, supplication, salvation, and then sin again. The continuous repetition of this cycle obviously weakened the people’s love for God and respect for His authority.”* The godly remnant would emerge victorious as the wicked would undergo punishment. The Babylonians would eventually receive their just punishment in God’s timing.
Some 650 years later this phrase was taken by Paul as a central element in his theology (Romans 1:17 & Galatians 3:11). Some 1500 years after Paul’s writings this passage came alive for an Augustinian monk named Martin Luther, setting off the Protestant Reformation, one of history’s greatest and most significant religious upheavals. Thus a so-called “Minor” prophet had a major influence on those who followed him!
Today we are all enriched and indebted to a relatively obscure but faithful man who served God. Are you living by faith today? Is your hope and confidence completely in the Lord? In over 2600 years the equation has not changed. Actually the equation was fundamentally clear to Adam and Eve but willfully broken in the garden. It was also very clearly understood by Abraham in Genesis 15:6: “Abram believed the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” The righteous continue to live by faith, during the good times but also during times of judgment!
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, we know that without a fresh manifestation of Your Holy Spirit power in our lives, our faith will not prevail when evil abounds in our day. Just as Habakkuk pleaded for You to manifest Yourself to Him, we also pray for renewal in our spirit so that we remain a faithful remnant fully committed to You. We choose to rejoice in the Lord our God who enables us to hold tightly to our godly faith in the midst of enemy invasion. We pray for deliverance and sustaining power so that we emerge victorious during the battle. Amen.
*Myrna Alexander “With Him in Life’s Struggles”
Brooksyne’s Note: Many have asked for updates so this is the latest: Yesterday Stephen took me to the Orthopedic Surgeon to have the staples removed from the incision sight. I broke the fibula (outside bone) of my ankle three weeks ago today. It was nice to have the third heavy splint removed and see firsthand the progress of the healing. There is still much swelling and healing needed. I had hoped that I would receive a mid-leg aircast this time but the doctor wrapped my entire leg in a fiberglass cast and informed me that it would remain like that for four weeks. I sheepishly asked him about gardening and he suggested that my gardening this year be limited to reading gardening books. Any of you who garden know that only feeds the gardening fever and should be reserved only for winter months. So…..I am trying to learn patience and the benefits of this inconvenient waiting time. I’ve gone beyond admiring others who have physical limitations – I’m actually appreciating their overcoming spirit as I, for the first time in my life, have some understanding of what that means. Just trying to open a public door restroom, in the orthopedics building of all places, was a major ordeal yesterday (while Stephen was parking our vehicle.) He has been a great blessing to me and has stretched himself way beyond his normal self to tend to my needs. Ester has helped care for me as well. Thank you again for your continued prayers, cards, and well-wishes.
Here is a descriptive narrative of the memorial service for little Maria Chapman as viewed through the eyes and ears of Steven Curtis Chapman’s manager. It is a touching account and demonstration of overcoming faith.
“Understanding God’s Statutes”
May 27, 2008 at 9:00 am | In Christanity, Encouragement, Faith, Jesus Christ | Leave a Comment
Red geraniums on an Amish farm in eastern Lancaster County
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“I am Your servant; give me discernment that I may understand Your statutes” (Psalm 119:125).
Among the issues our daughter, Ester, has to overcome is hearing loss. We are told her hearing loss is a result of medication she received as a baby for her heart condition that was later determined to cause hearing problems when given to infants. She has profound hearing loss in the high frequency range which means, although she hears volume at a normal level, she misses a part of the range that is necessary to understand properly. Thus, her speech can become unclear at times.
I really came to understand this when we consulted with an audiologist at Children’s Hospital in Boston several years ago. She explained that certain speech sounds in the upper frequencies are confused with other sounds to her. For instance we may say “they”, but she might hear it as “day”. You can imagine how confusing this can be in certain instances! She wore hear aids as a child but they were of only minimal help. Thankfully, as she’s gotten older, she is able to process more and more due to lip reading, gestures, context and her ability to read. But it is among the issues that has slowed her development.
There is certainly a spiritual parallel to this physical condition.
Psalm 119 is well-known as the longest chapter in the Bible with 176 verses. What is not quite as familiar is that each verse, in one way or another, has a reference to God’s Word; His laws and statutes, etc. I believe the various Scriptural expressions are used synonymously and all reveal the heart’s desire of the writer; to live according to God’s revelation.
Another interesting feature in this long Psalm is that it consists of 22 parts, according to the number of the letters in the Hebrew alphabet, with the names of which these letters stand for between each part. Each part consists of eight verses, all of which begin with the same letter in the Hebrew: thus, for instance, the first eight verses begin with the letter a, “aleph,” and the second eight verses begin with the letter b, “beth,” and so on throughout; hence the Masorah calls this Psalm the Great Alphabet. *
In today’s Scripture the Psalmist prays in humility: “I am your servant.” I find blessing in the Psalmist’s humble approach to God. We must always remember who’s in control; Who is the Master and who is the servant.
The nature of his request is so needed by those who live by faith today. “Give me discernment that I may understand your statutes.” The Hebrew word for discernment means “to separate mentally.” We need to be clear-minded in properly discerning God’s Word.
The specific request is to “understand Your statutes.” God’s statutes; His laws and precepts are good and we need to understand them clearly.
We are barraged with information. The “information superhighway” provides an abundance of information that can be helpful but also much that can confuse or sidetrack the more important message. Not only life-giving truths but disastrous errors also crowd the superhighway.
We do well to often repeat the Psalmist’s prayer; “Give me discernment that I may understand Your statutes.” May we not only read about God’s statutes but understand their meaning and then implement them into our lives.
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, I ask for discernment that I may understand Your statutes. I pray for understanding that I might know how to implement these truths into my life. I also pray that I will grow to love and embrace Your laws so that it becomes a natural outflow of my commitment to following You. Amen.
How sure the Scriptures are, God’s vital urgent Word.
As true as steel and far more sharp than any sword,
So deep and fine at His control.
They pierce where soul and spirit join.
They test each human thought, refining like a fire.
They measure what we ought to do and to desire
For God knows all. Exposed it lies
Before His eyes to whom we call.
Let those who hear His voice confronting them today,
Reject the tempting choice of doubting or delay.
For God speaks still, His word is clear.
So let us hear and do His will.
“How Sure The Scriptures Are” Idle, Christopher / Darwall, John
(to the tune of “Rejoice, the Lord is King”)
* from John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible
Brooksyne was blessed by a visit from two friends, Brenda and Glenda, from Vallorbs – a company we serve as chaplains. They brought with them 2 large boxes filled with gifts from the employees who were extending their well wishes for a speedy healing of her broken ankle. We have been amazed and greatly blessed by the loving acts of our many friends who have reached out to us in extraordinary ways over the past 2 1/2 weeks!
“How Firm A Foundation”
Video Audio“Word Of God Speak” Audio
“Making Known His Faithfulness”
May 26, 2008 at 12:08 pm | In Christanity, Devotional, Encouragement, Memorial Day, Religion | Leave a Comment
Teams at Lancaster County farmer’s market
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“I will sing of the mercies of the LORD for ever: with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations” (Psalm 89:1). “One generation will commend Your works to another” (Psalm 145:4).
In the USA today we celebrate Memorial Day. Its origin dates back to the period following our Civil War in the 1860’s and was primarily a remembrance of those who died in that war and other previous wars. But it has expanded to be a day when many tend to remember all who have gone before us. Later today I’ll push Brooksyne in the wheelchair up the road to Kraybill Cemetery where fresh flowers will decorate the graves as loved ones remember and honor their deceased family and friends.
Certainly today we will be remembering those in our own family, as Brooksyne and I have each seen our parents pass on to their eternal reward over the last ten years. Last year Brooksyne’s sister died reminding us of the quick progression of life and how that our own transition is growing closer as the years quickly pass.
Today we will also be remembering those who have impacted us on our journey of faith but are now with the Lord. Allow me to honor them with a partial list using their first names only: Joe, Tracy, Beulah, Karin Joy, Ines, John, Gene, Bill, Earl, Al & Thata, my very first pastor as a Christian, Bro. Howard and many, many others. Why don’t you take a moment to personally reflect by making a similar list and remembering those people who’ve touched your life?
Yesterday we had a special time in our church service where four generations of the Martin family helped lead us in a couple of older children’s choruses. Four generations faithfully serving Christ is a very inspirational sight, but the additional blessing of each of these families attending the same church brought spiritual refreshing as well. It’s rare these days that the grandparent(s) in their 80’s would have grown up singing the same songs that are taught to our children today such as “Deep & Wide” and “He’s Got the Whole world in His Hand.”
Moses, in his final message prior to his death, hearkens the people to “Consider the generations long past.” A powerful oral history had been maintained about the creation and origin of their national identity (children of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.) That was about 3,500 years ago and I believe his words are still very appropriate for the people of God. We need to remember those who have gone to be with the Lord before and during our lifetime.
The writer of Hebrews speaks of these men and women as “a great cloud of witnesses.” They indeed witness and testify to the power of faith and of the faithfulness of God. This great cloud is surely comprised of all the Biblical greats that are mentioned in Hebrews 11 and others in the Bible period.
But I believe it also includes all those throughout the ages of the church who have died in faith; people such as great men and women of church history like Evangelist D.L Moody and Songwriter Fannie Crosby. Today, I am thankful for the impact in my generation of nationally (and perhaps internationally) known people like D. James Kennedy, Bill Bright and Larry Burkett, who have in recent years gone on to their reward.
It surely also includes the many, many throughout the ages who have lived their lives for Christ in relative obscurity, serving Him faithfully in their work settings, homes, churches, and communities. They loved their family, sought to raise their children right, worked hard, served as Sunday School teachers, janitors, prayer leaders, nursery workers and in other ways. These are the people whom I have personally known and observed over time. I believe God has ordained that we are to live in close community with those whom He has placed in our lives, giving and receiving. Our friend, Doris High, has a thought-provoking saying on her blog: “There is no way of belonging to Jesus Christ except by belonging gladly and irrevocably to the glorious ragbag of saints who make up the Church!”
I’m certain that You have a number of people to remember today who are with the Lord. If they’re now in the great cloud of heavenly witnesses thank God for them! And let us all continue to sing of the mercies of the LORD forever. With our mouths and with our lives let us make known His faithfulness to all generations!
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, we give thanks for the men and women of great valor who have given their lives for our freedoms over the centuries. We also give thanks for those who have impacted our spiritual lives as we seek to live faithfully for You; the Biblical saints, the early church fathers, the martyrs of the faith, the evangelists, preachers, and teachers of Your Holy Word, our family members who showed us the way and we thank You for those extraordinary believers who not only lived for You but lived as an example of faith to those of us who were watching and learning along the way. Above all, we thank You for the person of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life to our eternal Home in heaven. Amen.
To save on gas, while Ester was at the prom, I went to the Green Dragon farmer’s market near Ephrata, Pennsylvania and walked around for a couple of hours. Farmer’s Markets are an interesting part of our rural area and the Green Dragon is considered the grand-daddy of them all. A lot of Amish and old-order Mennonites attend the market and the first photo shows one of their special parking areas. I tried to get a photo of one of the livestock auctions but it was too dark.
More info about the Green Dragon Farmer’s market
Yesterday we were blessed by a visit from our friend, Oren and Naomi Hostetter, who brought over a meal to share with us. Oren and Naomi are faithful servants for Christ who for many years served on a Navajo Indian reservation in mission work. They both have tremendous servant’s hearts and continue to impact many lives for the Lord.
“When The Tears Fall” Video This song has a wonderful message of faith and assurance.
“The Path Of Life”
May 23, 2008 at 2:41 pm | In Christanity, Devotional, Encouragement, Jesus Christ, Religion | Leave a Comment
Path across from our home
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“You will make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever” (Psalm 16:11).
Since Brooksyne’s ankle injury two weeks ago we’ve been missing our customary walks together. (So has our dog Roxie!) On a couple occasions Ester and I pushed her in the wheelchair alongside our country road but it doesn’t compare to walking on an old well-worn path. But the uneven terrain is not suitable for a wheelchair, especially for one with a tender ankle.
Today’s photo is my favorite part of our walking path across from our house, an old road between tree lines with farm fields on each side. It’s actually a long abandoned public road still deeded to the township that ends right across from our house where a church meeting house once stood. It can still seen on maps as “Meeting House Run Road”. Presently it’s accessible only with a tractor or four-wheel drive vehicle and that’s just fine with us since we enjoy the solitude of the quiet country setting!
Roxie really loves this part of the walk and often gets very distracted with all the smells of critters buried in the ground or she chases squirrels up the trees. She runs rabbits ragged as she sets about chasing them in and out of burrows, rock piles, and other accessible hiding places. The above photo really doesn’t do the scene justice since I can’t convey in a photo all the sights, let alone the sounds and smells that are part of the enjoyable experience.
Scripture in numerous places speaks of the “path of life” with today’s passage being the first. It’s from a Psalm of David, written some 3,000 years ago. In addressing God he asserts, “You will make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever.”
God continues to make known the path of life to those who earnestly seek Him. Today the path of life is the road less travelled since many by default follow the broad road where the majority travel.
There are several references to the path of life in the Proverbs such as “He is on the path of life who heeds instruction” and “The path of life leads upward for the wise.”
But the final reference to the “path of life” in Scripture may surprise you. Peter quotes several verses from Psalm 16 in his sermon on the day of Pentecost concluding with the daily verse, “You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence” (Acts 2:28). He makes it clear that ultimately in this Psalm David was referring to Jesus Christ as the path of life! Of course Jesus Himself tells us, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
I thank God for making known to me the path of life through the person of Jesus Christ, His Son! What a great joy and blessing to follow Him. And that’s something we all can do regardless of where we live. Please join us!
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily Prayer: Father, I consider today the path of life laid out for those who are wise. It certainly isn’t the shortest, most traveled, or least difficult trail. There are times when the incline may be so steep it forces me on all fours, but that’s a posture in which I’m most humbled. It forces me to kneel down before You, the Lord my Maker. Your strength is perfect when my strength is fleeting. It is a place where I realize it is no longer my strength but it is in Your perfect strength that I walk. It is no longer my plan but Your perfect plan that I follow. It is no longer my wisdom but Your perfect wisdom that instructs me. You give perfect direction and adequate strength to walk the upward path that leads to life everlasting. Thank You that I will never walk the path of life alone, for You lead the way as You make my feet like hind’s feet on high places. Amen.
Yesterday we learned about Steven Curtis Chapman’s tragic loss in the death of his youngest daughter, Maria. We pray that God will use the very song He inspired Steven to write years ago to bring much needed comfort and understanding, along with physical and spiritual strength to each one of the family members. “His Strength Is Perfect” Video
Through Christ who gives me strength,
But sometimes I wonder what He can do through me;
No great success to show, No glory on my own,
Yet in my weakness He is there to let me know . . .
CHORUS
His strength is perfect when our strength is gone;
He’ll carry us when we can’t carry on.
Raised in His power, the weak become strong;
His strength is perfect, His strength is perfect.
We can only know
The power that He holds
When we truly see how deep our weakness goes;
His strength in us begins
Where ours comes to an end.
He hears our humble cry and proves again . . .
(chorus)
Song by: Steven Curtis Chapman
Psalm 16 Today’s text
I enjoy maps and like many of you have enjoyed puttering around with Google earth and maps. If you’re interested, here is a satellite view of our typical walk. Our home is on the right side of the map and we normally walk a mile to Colebrook Road. In the middle I have placed a placemarker on the trail where today’s photo was taken.
What is this?Several of our Amish friends enjoy music. But they do not use electricity or have any types of music players. However … they do use phones and voice mail. So we have a creative means of sharing music they enjoy. This morning I had to call a friend and when I was done I left a song from yesterday’s message on his voice mail. This is a rather unique form of ministry!
Our rhododendrens are in full bloom and after several days of wet, cold, gloomy weather we have a beautiful day here in Lancaster County PA!
“In The Garden” Video A nice instrumental violin duet by a husband/wife team!
“Still Changing Lives”
May 22, 2008 at 10:33 am | In Christanity, Devotional, Encouragement, Jesus Christ, Religion | Leave a Comment
Photo taken in Centre County, PA by our friend Greg Schneider.
(Click on photo to enlarge and for better clarity)
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“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
I enjoy hearing testimonies of faith in Christ. Some are dramatic and full of suspense such as one who has overcome tremendous adversity in the process of finding Christ. Others may have less “colorful” pre-conversion stories, but all of us who have placed our faith in Christ have a powerful testimony in one way or another. For every conversion is a miracle of the new birth we have in Christ Jesus.
You may have a story that focuses on God’s delivering grace while others have stories that focus more on God’s preserving grace. God’s preserving grace is especially seen in those who were spared the ravages of a sin-filled life because they came to faith at an early age. Galatians 6:7ff speaks of the harvest that comes from what we plant. If we have planted to satisfy our sinful selves it will bring us ruin, but if we plant to please the Spirit we receive eternal life from the Spirit.
Yesterday a friend of mine, Ed Herr, shared his testimony with a group of businessmen here in Lancaster County, PA. Since Ed was raised in a godly home and came to the Lord as a child his testimony reflects the preserving grace of God’s work in his life. But he told a pre-conversion story that reveals both the power of conviction and the lasting impact godly parents have in a young child’s life.
Ed’s mother had requested that he go to the corner grocery store on his bike for some groceries and gave him a detailed list of the items she wanted. So Ed went to the store and the couple who owned the store filled the order based on the grocery list as he waited. Well little Eddie really liked Peanut Butter Cups so, while the order was being filled and the store owners were out of sight, he stashed a couple of them for himself. The store owners then brought Ed the bag of groceries his mother had ordered.
Preparing for his trip home he placed the two peanut butter cups on top of the bag and cleverly devised a plan. He would park his bike, take out the two peanut butter cups and set them aside, and then take the groceries into the house for his mom. He would come back later to enjoy the candy while no one was watching.
Well, his plan was thwarted as his mother, in a hurry for an item needed for the evening meal, met him as he drove up. She took the bag from him before he could remove the candy. He quickly devised “plan B.”
When Mom came out and inquired about the two peanut butter cups he said, “Since I’m helping you out I thought I deserved them so I just added them to the order.” But Mom reached into the bag for the receipt and of course the peanut butter cups weren’t listed. (He was caught in the act of both stealing and lying! It was the same sinful plot that Adam and Eve fell for.)
Ed’s mother insisted that he immediately go back and tell both the store owner and his wife what he had done and ask their forgiveness. Ed is my age but this infraction was a formative moment in his life as he experienced earnest conviction of sin and, in a short time, he trusted Christ for salvation.
In the daily text the Apostle Paul describes the wonderful transformation that Christ brings, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17). When a person turns to Christ a wonderful transformation takes place. In one sense it’s instantaneous, but in another sense it’s a life-long process.
Romans 12:2 instructs: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” In 2 Corinthians 3:18 we read about the process of “being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory.”
Paul himself experienced this same life-transforming conversion on the road to Damascus and went on to be the greatest missionary in the history of the church. Slave trader John Newton experienced a dramatic conversion to Christ and went on to write “Amazing Grace”. Nixon’s hatchet man, Chuck Colson, experienced this change and went on to found “Prison Fellowship” and continues to have a fruitful ministry for Christ.
And the list of changed lives goes on and on and is being added to every day. Are you on this list? Today consider your life. Have you accepted Jesus Christ into your life by asking Him to be your Lord and Savior? Have you sought Him for forgiveness of your sins? If so, then you are a child of God!
Christ continues to change lives today and He is either changing yours or waiting for you to call on His Name so your life can be changed. Please do so today!
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, as Your new creation we have crucified our sinful selves and found new life through Your indwelling Holy Spirit. We have given up our old selfish desires and sin no longer masters our thoughts and actions. We deny our sinful nature so that Your will may be accomplished in our lives as we reflect Your glory day by day. Your deliverance power gives us the strength we need to deal with the ongoing temptation to yield to our old sinful nature. In our power struggle between good and evil we gratefully proclaim: “Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.” Amen.
Ed Herr (left) was our speaker at yesterday’s CBMC luncheon where he shared his faith in Christ. I met Ed when I spoke at his church several times. He is the president of Herrs which makes great tasting snack products. Another friend, Patrick Kirkham, is on the right. Ed shared of his godly upbringing and wholesome homelife and quipped that he used to watch “Leave It To Beaver” and thought that the Beaver had it rough. (You have to have watched TV in the 60s to appreciate the humor!) CBMC is an international network of Christian businessmen seeking to live for Christ in the marketplace.
“The Blood Will Never Lose It’s Power” Video
“You Give”
Audio“That’s Why I Sing” Video
“What Wondrous Love Is This” Audio
“Wonderful Savior” Audio
Today’s butterfly photo was taken by
Greg Schneider, a local photographer we met in a company we visited when we worked with a national chaplaincy chain several years ago. Greg is primarily a sports photographer but also enjoys nature photography. Here are several more of Greg’s photos. Maine sunrise, lighthouse and sailboat, Acadia National Park, Acadia National Park, Pennsylvania wildflowers.
“Gnashing Teeth”
May 21, 2008 at 3:57 pm | In Christanity, Devotional, Encouragement, Religion | Leave a Comment
Bass Harbor Lighthouse
Click here for larger image
(photo by Howard J. Blichfeldt)
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“They were unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking” (Acts 6:10). “Now when they heard this, they were cut to the quick, and they began gnashing their teeth at him” (Acts 7:54).
We are reading a book about martyrs and courageous people who suffered for Christ titled “Christian Heroes”. It’s especially interesting since it includes martyrs from all ages including those who gave their lives for Christ in very recent years. So often in martyr stories there is an element of intense conflict between the forces of good and evil and a firm resolve on the part of the martyr to stay faithful.
I came across today’s first text while studying for yesterday’s message and the theme of having a “sound mind.” Although I have certainly read this passage many times, yesterday this verse really jumped out at me.
It concerns Stephen who had just begun his ministry. He was selected in the first group of seven deacons and destined for a powerful, yet short-lived preaching ministry. He immediately drew opposition as have preachers of truth throughout all the ages. The sacred text records that the opposition “were unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking.”
I’ve often wondered how old Stephen was and how long he had been a disciple of Christ, for even in his selection it was noted that he was a man “full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.” Shortly afterward he began his servant’s role he was observed as “full of grace and power.”
But today’s first text describes Stephen as speaking with “wisdom and the Spirit.” His only recorded sermon certainly demonstrates this spirit-anointed wisdom. It is one of my favorite Biblical sermons and a great model for all who follow Christ. (See Acts 6 & 7.)
We expect and desire great preaching to have a receptive response. When I preach I like to see open Bibles, attentive eyes, affirming nods and even verbal amens. This last Sunday my pastor was dealing with moral purity and holiness, passionately expressing Biblical truth. At one point I found myself saying “Preach It”, which usually isn’t my style. The most unconventional affirmation I can remember was from Paul Scholtz, a farm boy from Oklahoma, who attended the same small midwestern Bible College we attended. When especially moved by a point in a sermon in chapel he would declare from the balcony, “Sick ‘em!” (Paul is faithfully serving Christ as a chaplain to the rodeo and for many years was a rider himself.)
But for the most part that’s not what Stephen got after his only recorded sermon. Instead we read, “Now when they heard this, they were cut to the quick, and they began gnashing their teeth at him.” A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament by Bauer, Arndt and Gingrich defines gnashing as “a sign of violent rage.”
Well, that violent rage was unleashed when Stephen was stoned to death, but he remained faithful to the very end of his earthly existence. On my heart today, in sharing this story, is a call to first and foremost seek diligently to be a God-pleaser. I see a trend in the modern church to be liked by the world first and that’s increasingly not going to be possible for the faithful in our time anymore than it was for Stephen.
In our words and actions let us seek the approval of God far more than the applause of men.
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, may holiness and truth continually flow from our lives and the words we speak. Help us to be obedient to Your commands and faithfully proclaim Your truths, making no concession to please the hearts of men rather than the heart of God. Some will turn away while others may carefully listen to the gospel message we proclaim. Above all may we be faithful to the Holy Scriptures and not be deterred by lack of receptivity. For, we seek Your approval far above the approval of others. Amen.
Paul Schotlz and me in 1976
Today I mentioned a book we are reading. Here’s more info and a link to order if you desire.
By Dave & Neta Jackson / Tyndale House
Are there any true heroes? Discover the remarkable stories of those who have suffered for the cause of Christ throughout the course of history. This book will reveal what inspired the great heroes of faith and drove them to give their all. Featuring such gripping accounts of each hero’s life, this book gives the historical and cultural information as well as quotations and Scripture passages that amplify what each hero stood for. You will learn about John Bunyan, Mary Dyer, Brother Andrew, Todd Beamer and over 200 more heroes of yesterday and today. This is an excellent resource for any home library. To order click here.
“He Giveth More Grace” Video Yesterday a friend called and said he had seven joys for us he wanted to bring over to share. He dropped off seven Homecoming videos from his personal library. The songs brought great joy and thanksgiving into our home last night. Here’s a song by Larry Ford, a musician we both like, with a great message. We shared an interesting story about this hymn several years ago in an encouragement message.
“Hiding Place” Audio
Today’s photo of the Bass Harbor lighthouse is by Howard J. Blichfeldt and is used with his permission. His website is here. Howard desires to honor the Lord through his photography.
“Saved And Sound”
May 20, 2008 at 11:44 am | In Christanity, Devotional, Encouragement, Jesus Christ, Religion, Wisdom | Leave a Comment
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“Your brother has come, “he replied, “and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound” (Luke 15:27).
I believe most familiar with the English language understand the meaning of the phrase, “safe and sound.” It’s likely that this common phrase originated from its use here in the daily text in the King James Bible, which was translated nearly 400 years ago. Of course the phrase refers to the return of the prodigal son in this instance. It’s interesting that all the standard Bible translations I typically study from use this exact phrase.
One night I returned from an out of town trip very late and quietly went to bed where Brooksyne was sleeping soundly. As I snuggled up beside her around 3:00AM she mumbled in her half awake voice, “Safe and sound?” I wasn’t quite ready to nod off so I thought on the expression for awhile and, with a little tweaking, came up with a slightly different expression. I began to rejoice in my spirit that I am truly “saved and sound.” It was a nice peace-filled thought that flooded my heart before finally falling asleep.
I’m saved. What indescribable peace comes deep to the soul when a believer has the assurance of salvation. Many years ago I memorized this selection from Scripture: “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life” (Titus 3:3-7). The words of the hymn, “Saved”, come to mind: ”I’m saved by His power divine, I’m saved to new life sublime, life now is sweet and my joy is complete for I’m saved, saved, saved!” Praise God I’m saved!
I’m sound. OK, I admit some of you reading this may think, “Well, that’s not for you to say.” Others, based upon their world outlook might not see me sound at all! My greatest aspiration though is to be sound in God’s reckoning, not man’s and that is altogether different! The apostle Paul wrote, “Yet we do speak wisdom among those who are mature; a wisdom, however, not of this age nor of the rulers of this age, who are passing away” (1 Corinthians 2:6).
I’m committed to:
“Having a sound mind” – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).
“Holding fast to sound teaching” – “What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 1:13).
“Enduring sound doctrine” – “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine” (2 Timothy 4:3).
“Being sound in the faith” – “Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith” (Titus 1:13).
The word translated “sound” means to “to have sound health, to be well in body; to be uncorrupt (true in doctrine): — be in health, be safe and sound, be whole(-some).
It’s interesting to me that this word is used only twelve times in the Scriptures and nine of them are in the Pastoral Epistles. It’s interesting also that the expression “safe and sound” in our daily text translates the same identical word in the Greek.
Let us thank God that we are saved and sound!
How marvelous, how wonderful and my song shall ever be,
How marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior’s love for me!
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily prayer: Father, nothing brings abiding peace more than knowing that we are saved from the penalty of sin and that we are firmly grounded in Your holy precepts. It makes us feel safe in a struggling world that continues to search for knowledge from all the wrong sources. We are sound in our outlook when we align our understanding and convictions with the teachings of Christ, His disciples and the prophets of old. We speak wisdom among those who are mature; a wisdom, however, not of this age nor from the authority of this world that changes from year to year. Our wisdom is based upon our knowledge and understanding of You, our eternal Father, the One who changes not. In You we are saved and we are sound. Praise Your matchless, holy name. Amen.
Uses of “sound” concept in the Pastoral Epistles where the above points were drawn from. In regard to today’s topic I have an interest in a separate blog called “Clear Minded” based on the need to have a sound, clear mind in these confusing, often delusional times. I based the title on this verse, “The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray” (1 Timothy 4:7).
Last fall I started the blog and posted an article I had written back in the nineties for ministers but really hope to get some more material on the site. I have it stored up in my heart but just need to get it written out!
Ester and I witnessed the dedication of little Adoree’ in our church this last Sunday. Her mom and dad, Mike and Joanna, help lead our small group. Three years ago I had the privilege of officiating at their wedding service. Here’s the ceremony, most distinguished by their request to wash each other’s feet as a part of the ceremony which was indeed very meaningful. They are committed to living for Jesus Christ and building a family based on Biblical truth and godly values. Pastor Bob is performing the dedication.
“Creation Calls” Video Outstanding video images accompanied by a powerful Brian Doerkson song! The words will inspire you and the photography will leave you in awe as you consider God’s creation.
“Draw Me Close To You” Audio
“Power Of Your Love” Video
“Genuine Disciples”
May 19, 2008 at 12:32 pm | In Christanity, Devotional, Encouragement, Love, Religion | Leave a Comment
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“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:18).
Christianity is often maligned and ridiculed in many parts of our world, certainly including here in the US. The secular media and arts often mock our faith in Jesus Christ. Blaspheme my Lord, call it “art”, and you just might get a huge government grant. Sadly, many of the programs on the “Christian” TV stations are not representative of what I believe or practice as a follower of Christ. But genuine disciples of Christ are planted all over the world today living out their faith in relative obscurity, usually seen only by God and those in their small area of influence.
Jerel Book is a retired pastor who attends our rural church. He and his wife, Fran, also attend the same small Bible Study group as Brooksyne and I. We received a call from our small group co-leader letting us know they wanted to help the Weber family with some meals during Brooksyne’s surgery and recovery. Saturday night the Books stopped by, along with their son Mike, and brought us a delicious lasagna meal.
Jerel and Fran have both had some severe physical setbacks the last several years but are trusting God for each day of good health. They both use canes to get around and yet they walked up both flights of stairs to Brooksyne’s recovery room (formerly, our bedroom) and spent some time visiting. Mike, who is a faithful deacon in our church, then prayed for Brooksyne and our family. We were strengthened and encouraged by these dear folks and others who have stopped in as well!
Now there’s not one reader who would have any idea this happened unless I told you. There weren’t any TV cameras zooming in on our little room and the paparazzi has zero interest in our family. What happened in our home early Saturday evening happened scores of times at that very moment all over the world. Acts of compassion are continually happening as we “bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Genuine disciples lovingly serving others in the name of Jesus Christ is modeled in the Bible and carried out in the lives of believers day after day. In many cases these are brothers and sisters who reach out to others in Christian compassion but have never personally met the recipients of their kind acts or generous gifts.
Before Jesus went to the Cross he gave a lengthy teaching recorded in John’s gospel that includes chapter 14. In our first daily text He teaches a distinguishing mark of the true disciple: “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Coming out of Bible College this verse and a small booklet titled “The Mark Of The Christian” by Francis Schaeffer heavily influenced my understanding of Christianity. As many believers already know, the word “love” in this verse comes from the Greek word “agape” which speaks of an “in spite of” type of love. Brooksyne and I were so impressed with this Greek word that we named the church we established in St. Marys, Pennsylvania “AGAPE” in 1977. It took a few years for the community to learn that the name of our church was not speaking of “agape” as in “mouth open” but as in “the love of Christ.”
The second daily text somewhat intrigues me, for surely there is an appropriate use for verbally expressing love. I believe John is saying, “let us not love with words or tongue” only, for there is plenty of talk about love and merely saying it is not enough. Genuine disciples expressing genuine love need to back their verbal expressions with loving actions in accordance to God’s Word. Today let us indeed love one another in words and in deed as we demonstrate genuine discipleship!
Be encouraged today,
Stephen & Brooksyne Weber
Daily Prayer: Father, may we be people who are quick to notice the ways in which we can be of special blessing to others. It seems quite easy when it comes to those whom we befriend. We often recognize their need before they express it and find genuine fulfillment in being Your hand extended to them. But You challenge us to go even further in making ourselves available to our enemies with whom it is not natural to provide for their needs. In expressing agape love to those around us we love in spite of what we see or have experienced. May all that we do, on behalf of others, be an expression of Your divine touch in the form of Christian service. It is in Your strength and compassion that we can do that which is unnatural to our human nature, but natural to our redeemed spirit. Amen.
Brooksyne’s Note: As you may have noted from our message today we are once again recipients of the kindness and generosity of others; friends, family members, neighbors, church folks, daily encouragement readers, and otherwise. I am grateful for your prayers, notes, and well-wishes as I underwent surgery on Friday. The doctors said: “It could not have gone better. You were marvelous.” Well, you and I know that I had nothing to do with the “marvelous” results but God has blessed me with very good health through the years and it likely contributed to the overall success of the surgery. But, of course, I know the prayers of the saints guided the surgeons and assistants through the process.
The doctor said, due to the extreme pain of ankle surgery, they recommended a nerve block pre-op. This is a procedure in which medicine is injected directly into or around nerves near the injury to block pain. In addition to the technician who was inserting the IV there were four other men dressed in their scrubs standing over me with their needles searching for these nerve spots from my knee downward to the ankle. One suddenly asked, “Are you OK?” It was especially in that fearful setting that I felt a great sense of God’s peace come over me. Like the vast majority I prefer to use needles for sewing fabrics not piercing my skin, but I could honestly answer their question that I was OK. God’s peace overrode the potential fear that I would have experienced had it not been for the prayers of the believers. As I told several others, I felt as though I was wrapped in prayer. It made all the difference. Thank you so much!
There’s some lingering ankle pain but overall I am on the road to recovery. I received a phone call this morning from a friend who, along with her daughter, wants to come and pull weeds in my flower gardens. Wow, I am humbled but very grateful for how God speaks to the hearts of those who care about others’ hardships.
Ashley Larrimore is a young lady from the church we served in New England. When we moved there in 1993 Ashley was just 8 years old and already had a desire to be a medical doctor. We left that area in early 2001 but have stayed in contact with her folks. Her dad, Andy, initially set up the daily encouragement net website in 1999. Last week he wrote that Ashley would be going to Guatamala for a special time of language and culture immersion. He thought that would be special to us because of Ester. Ashley taught Ester to ride a bike which took several years for her to catch on.
She is now a student at the George Washington University Medical School in Washington, DC. Last night Brooksyne and I both visited with her over the phone and she testifies that she is staying faithful to the Lord, a blessing every pastor desires to hear!
“Mighty to Save”
Video This song has been on Brooksyne’s heart for several days. She especially likes the repeated line, “He conquered the grave.” If Jesus conquered the grave there’s nothing too difficult for Him to conquer in our lives!
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