Saturday, October 09, 2010

"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live.." Psalm 63:3-4, King David


"Even when our heart is rather desiring than enjoying we should still continue to magnify the Most High, for His love is truly precious; even if we do not personally, for the time being, happen to be rejoicing in it. We ought not to make our praises of God to depend upon our own personal and present reception of benefits; this would be more selfishness: even publicans and sinners have a good word for those whose hands are enriching them with gifts; it is the true believer only who will bless the LORD when he takes away His gifts or hides His face." -CH Spurgeon, From 'The Treasury of David' An Exposition of the Book of Psalms Vol. II.

The Lord has taken away from me, quite a bit lately. I have actually been under His grace, and filled with His Spirit enough to allow me to bless His name during this difficult time. But I have also complained, and been overly critical of the Lord, and others as well. Though God's grace comes at these times as well, and I am able to repent.
I feel I have grown to know the love of Christ, which is beyond knowing, during my walk through these hard times, and while experiencing an arid spiritual season as well.

Thank You Lord for the grace you pour out on such a sinner. If not for Your grace, then I would despair, and be discouraged beyond degree.

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This is a double post Saturday!

I have finished reading the Book of Deuteronomy, and have just this morning began to read Joshua. Here is the last verse I read:

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (ver. 9)

I am encouraged that the Lord's words here are for us all; those who love Christ, and have trusted in Christ's death and resurrection for the forgiveness of their sins.




John Martin (1789–1854)
(Joshua praying to God to keep the Sun still)

2 comments:

mommanator said...

I loved the picture, you could just write on it, but no not you! you have placed interesting words for the grace you feel. Funny how one is lead. earlier this eve doing my study for the sunday school class tomorrow, part of it was the grace we all have been blessed with.
I will keep you in prayer brother for whatever the circumstance you are talking about!

donsands said...

Thank you so much for praying.