God Delights and Sings

Posted on December 5, 2020 by Marie

It’s interesting that this verse appears in the Advent list I’m using for these Advent postings. At first, I wasn’t sure how to ascribe it to the Season but the more thought I give it the better this one fits.

Mighty Warrior – This term sent me back to the story of Gideon. The Midianites had been harassing the tribe of Gideon for years, attacking them and stealing their food when it was time for the harvest. Because of their fear they hid in caves in the surrounding hills. They had been begging God for help for 7 years. Finally, God sent an angel to Gideon telling him he was a mighty warrior and that He would save his people from the persecution of the Midianites. (This people group was descended from Abraham and Keturah. After Sarah’s death he fathered 6 more sons with her.)

Jesus is the Mighty Warrior of the New Testament. Unlike Gideon, He, too, would save His people. Certainly, in a different way than Gideon, but He was, and still is, considered Mighty To Save!

He delights in us – First of all, this is a two-way ‘street’. He delights in us when we delight in Him. When we choose to do His will, practice integrity, talk with Him regularly (pray), know His Word (His instructions), we show our delight in Him.

He will no longer rebuke you – When Jesus came to earth His one purpose was to save us from our sins. At the cross, He did just that. As believers, we have the privilege of being totally forgiven because of His grace and mercy.

He sings over us – This is the only verse in the Bible that says God sings. We are created in His likeness and we carry His characteristics so as we sing, so does He. I can hardly wait to hear His perfect pitch. (Smiley face, here.) The angels sang praises at the Birth of Jesus, the shepherds sang praises, we continue to sing praises, and I believe God is joining right in.

This little verse, in one of the obscure books of The Old Testament that is rarely studied had a lot to say to me about Advent and the person of Jesus. How about you?

Blessings to you and yours!

Marie

Character Carved In Stone — Book Review

Posted on February 28, 2019 by Marie

From the compassion of Ulysses S. Grant to the heroism of Peter Wang ROTC (Granted posthumous admission to the West Point class of 2015. You’ll have to read the book to find out why.) I was held spellbound and captive as I read of the attributes and accomplishments of some of our country’s greatest heroes.

Between the covers of Character Carved in Stone by Pat Williams, you will find stories of West Point graduates whose lives personified the virtues of that institution. The author then continues with ways to incorporate those some concepts into your own life.

These are my favorite quotes from each of the 12 Virtues:

“Leaders with authentic compassion are strong, courageous, honest, and direct.” p35

“Faith replaces fear with courage.” p51

“Live each day dedicated to the future.” p66

“Determination means making up your mind that you will achieve your goal…expecting roadblocks and obstacles, but prepared to find a way over, around, or straight through them.” p77

“Dignity is a priceless virtue–a virtue that is in danger of extinction in our society.” p92

“Success is the result of discipline, of repeatedly doing the things that lead to excellence.” p104

“A person of integrity is whole and complete–not divided or compartmentalized. A person of integrity will be the same person in public and in private. The inner reality will match the outward reputation.” p123

“Always stand up for your people. Always have their backs. If they are attacked or criticized, defend them… That is what loyalty demands of you.” p137

“Pray for the power to persevere. Never give in. Never give up. Never quit.” p153

“We don’t blame other people. We don’t blame circumstances. We don’t blame God. We accept full responsibility.” p167

“Throughout our nation’s history, generations of Americans have enjoyed freedom and prosperity because American soldiers have selflessly served their country.” p180

“When we trust one another, we can accomplish great things. Without trust, we are defeated before we begin.” p199

Who should read and use Character Carved in Stone? Everyone! Parents, preachers, politicians (especially), grandparents, teachers, teenagers, students, farmers, waiters… Everyone!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell/Baker Publishing Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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Integrity

Posted on May 25, 2015 by Marie

If I could choose one word that would define my life it would be integrity. Is it possible to live a Christian life without this moral characteristic? I don’t think so. Let me explain…

Personal integrity is about making the right choices with the right thoughts based on Christ’s life and model. We can all make the right choice but is that choice in line with what I know of Biblical living. In other words is it ‘What Jesus Would Do’?

Integrity is about personal motivation. It is about personal choices that reflect inner beliefs. It is the desire to do the right thing when you know everyone and everything around you is going to disagree with your choice. Are my actions and deeds motivated by my Lord and His Word? Am I displaying the ‘Mind of Christ’ (1 Corinthians 2:17) in all I think, do and say? Is God’s will my will?