Thy Kingdom Come

When I begin to feel discouraged I boldly proclaim His promises over my life with thanksgiving.

           I thank You Father that You said I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!  

           I thank you Father that You said That You ALWAYS lead me in triumph through Jesus!  

           I thank You that You said that You are for me so who can be against me; and You are with 

          me so whom shall I fear?!

As I speak these things to God, my soul and the spiritual realm - GOD arises in my heart and the enemy trembles! Everywhere I place my foot  the spiritual realm shakes with the weight of His Word - for the Kingdom of God has come on the scene!  For you see, when you walk with God - you do not walk alone.        

                                                                                        

Terebinth of God - Psalm 1:1-3

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sittieth in the seat of the scornful.
But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law he doth meditate day and night.
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

There is nothing in creation with quite the same solemn beauty as an ancient tree?   They are one of those creations of God that command reverence. My Dad once told me, "If I didn't know God I would worship a tree." And throughout history many people have. What makes them even more amazing to me is that we know this majestic giant started as a small seed.
  Resurrection power is in that seed. The power that creates this unshakable giant is in that tiny seed. Each one of us start with a seed. Miracles are in that seed. Events that can change history are in that seed. Perhaps there is something to Jack and the Bean Stalk, who traded all he had for some magic seeds.

It is no coincidence that in the Bible descendants are called seed. Jesus himself came to earth  as a seed in the womb of Mary. After returning from the wilderness in the power of the Spirit, Jesus begins his ministry by quoting Isaiah 61. "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound. To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garments of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified. (Isaiah 61:1-3)"
 Jesus came not only to save that which was lost, broken, and bound, but to transform us into trees of righteousness. This word tree or ayil in the Hebrew has a 4 fold meaning:
                                                              1. a ram
                                                                        a. ram as food
                                                                        b. ram as a sacrifice
                                                                        c. ram as the red-dyed ramskin of the tabernacle

                                                                2. column or pillar
                                                                3. a strong man or leader
                                                                4. and finally tree.
You might think what does a ram have to do with a column. But volutes on the columns  of that day often had a spiral or scroll shape that resembled a ram's horn and often this Hebrew Word for ram was used to describe the whole column. I think it is interesting to note the symbolism behind that part of the meaning of the word ayil. In the 4 fold definition, ram is the first meaning listed and the only one subdivided. It is subdivided into ram as food, ram as a sacrifice, and ram as the red dyed ram skin  used for the tabernacle. These allusions when applied to us as these ayil of righteousness are beautiful.  First, Jesus said I am the Bread of Life. This is my body take it and eat. In the same way we are to be that food to a starving world. We are to feed His sheep. Second we are called to be living sacrifices. Third, the red dyed ram skin is a picture of our fleshly body redeemed, transformed by the blood of the Lamb in order to make a habitation for the living God, a place for His glory to dwell and manifest. The layers of deep meaning behind every jot and tittle of the Word astound me. Even small details, such as the capital of a column, or the type skin used in the tabernacle are imbued with profound symbolism.
The Hebrew word ayil is further defined as a column or pillar, and also a strong man or leader. Lastly ayil has the meaning of tree and particularly the terebinth tree. Which was regarded by many in that time as a sacred tree. Many mighty men of the Bible such as Abraham had encounters with God under a terebinth tree. Further study of this tree brings to light certain qualities that should characterize a believer's life. May we be these sacred trees of righteousness.
All this might and mystery begins with a seed, faith as a mustard seed, or as Isaiah calls it, "the planting of the Lord."  This seed of greatness is within us. The very kingdom of God is in this seed. May we protect it, nurture it, and see it grow as we delight in His Word and meditate on it day and night.  As I think again about my Dad's words, "If I didn't know God I would worship a tree," I pray that when people stop to rest beneath my shade, that they will encounter God also.  

What I Am

"And Joseph dreamed a dream and he told it to his brethren and they hated him yet the more." 

                                                                                                                            Genisis 37:4

                                                               

                                                 
                                                    Many tell me
                                                    I can not be a king.
                                                    And it is not as if I want to be,
                                                    but how can I not be
                                                    what I Am
                                                    has called for me to be.

                                                   They tell me
                                                   the world is much too large
                                                   and I am but an ant.
                                                   But they forget
                                                   that to my God
                                                   the world is a grain of sand.

                                                  The ox and eagle, lion and man
                                                  come together in my hands
                                                  and I soar above the thoughts of man
                                                  and courage roars in me.
                                                  The dream is a yoke placed on the ox
                                                  who plows the world to bear His crops.
                                                  And I the man lift up my hands
                                                  to God who made it be.

                                                  Courage! Courage!,
                                                  Brave and free,
                                                  to be what I was be,
                                                  to accomplish all I hope and dream
                                                  through God
                                                  Who made it
                                                  be.

                                                                                               by Sherry Fauscett
                                                                                                                              1986

His Banner Over Us - Ps. 60 :4

Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of truth. Selah.

When I read this verse I am reminded of Moses when he lifted up the rod of God on Rephidim as the Israelites were battling Amalek. When the Israelites saw the Rod of God lifted up in Moses' hands, they began to triumph in the battle. When Moses tires and lowers the Rod, the enemy began to overcome the Israelites.  The word banner in verse 4 above actually means - something lifted up, a standard, a signal pole or a sign.  This verse also says he has given us a banner to be displayed because of Truth. I think that banner is Truth. Just like that Rod of God is Truth. Just like Jesus is the Truth.  Jesus said in   "If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me."  I am my Beloved's and He is mine. His banner over me is love. They will know we are Christians by our love. If we can lift up a life of sacrificial love, then the enemies will be defeated in the lives of those around us. Love is not some insipid emotion. Unrelenting, sacrificial love is the most powerful thing on earth.  One of my favorite descriptions of Jesus is " The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory full of grace and truth.  When people look at our lives what do they see written on the banner? I want mine to say, "Love because of Truth."

I am Legend - John 17:26

"I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them"

There is a movie called I Am Legend with Will Smith where he sacrifices himself to cure and save an infected world.  Though not one of my favorite movies (I'm not a zombie fan,) I love the title.  As I am getting older, words like legacy and legend hold my thoughts captive.  Webster defines legend as - a story coming down from the past; one popularly regarded as historical although not verifiable. Or as a person or thing that inspires legends. What will be the stories told of my life? Will there be any stories? What will I leave behind of significance. What will be my legacy? What will my life stand for? Another type of legend is on a map. It explains symbols and thus helps people find their way.  Will my life make it easier for someone to find Christ and find their way in life? David prays in Psalm 71:17-18 "O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy marvelous works. Now also when I am old and gray headed, O God, forsake me not; until I have declared thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to everyone that is to come." I always got so caught up in the idea that David wanted to reach his generation that I never quite noticed the "and thy power to everyone that is to come," part. David was praying to be a legend.  In John 17 Jesus prays with all his disciples one last time and says,  "I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them" (vrs.26.) "That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me" (vrs.21.) Jesus desires to make us the stuff of legends -  that the world may believe.

Lord, May your words be fulfilled in my life and the lives of my children. May I truly be a Light like You that lights the hearts of men, a light that will shew the Way to a world that is lost - "that the world may believe that thou hast sent me."

The Shadow of His Wings - Psalm 57:1-3

Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me; my soul trusteth in Thee: yea, in the shadow of they wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast. I will cry unto God most High; unto God that performeth all things for me. He shall send from heaven, and save me from the reproach of him that would swallow me up. Selah. God shall send forth His mercy and His truth.

 At the end of the Lord of the Rings movie, The Return of the King, after Frodo and Sam have thrown the ring of power into the fiery lava of Mount Doom. They are stranded on a rock as molten flames flow around them, overcome with exhaustion and on the verge of death. Then from the heavens enormous eagles swoop down and carry them beneath their outstretched wings to safety.  What a beautiful picture this is of God's redeeming love.  Only a Rock saves them from being overcome by the burning lava flowing around them. How many times in my life have I been lying on that same Rock on the verge of collapse while the flames of fiery trials sought to overcome me. And every time God sent His mercy and His Truth to lift me above the situation. His Word would snatch me from the clutches of Mount Doom and take me to a place of rest in Him.

Tears to Triumph - Psalm 56: 8-9

Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?  When I cry unto thee then shall mine enemies turn back: This I know; for God is for me.

I have always loved this verse, because it reminds me how intimately concerned God is about my struggles. My very tears are stored in a bottle and each one written in His book. Yet in the midst of brokenness and weakness, God's strength is revealed. Through his tears David says with certitude, "When I cry unto Thee then my enemies will be turned back: THIS I KNOW; for God is for me. In Daniel it says that "those who know their God will be strong and do great exploits." When I first became a Christian, I was so hungry for the Word of God that I devoured it for hours upon hours. The Word says that, "He sent His Word and delivered them from all their destructions."  At  night when I was sleeping I was plagued by demonic attacks in my dreams.  I actually believe the spirits that were harassing me had come out of me as I devoured God's Word and were just hanging around trying to get back in. I later learned I could bind these evil spirits from my dreams.  In my sleep when these attacks would happen, I would try to wake myself up and would struggle to call out the name, "Je-s-u-s!" It was as if some force was trying to hold my vocal cords closed. But I would always struggle to consciousness and squeeze His name out. The enemies of my soul knew the moment I called on that Name, they would have to flee and they always did. I know all this talk of demons will seem wacko to some. I am not a snake handling fanatic, but a degreed professional (not that that means anything,) who has had a profound and life changing encounter with Christ.  Jesus confronted spiritual beings daily. And I learned as a babe in Christ a valuable lesson - the spiritual realm is very real. It is not a fantasy. And there is power in the name of Jesus.  I can say with David from experience, "When I cry unto thee then shall mine enemies turn back: This I know; for God is for me!"

Love You Forever - Psalm 53:2

God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, that did seek God.

Did you ever wish that there was someone that truely understood you and loved you with all their being? There is a longing ingrained in the human heart that desires such communion. What amazes me is that there is that same longing in the heart of God.   I was once trying to describe finding Christ to a woman on an airplance. I told her it was like falling in love. With a dreamy sound in her voice she said, "I've never heard it described that way." His Holy Spirit is continually wooing us into that relationship. Unfortunately other lovers are also courting our time and affections and often their temptations and babbles distract us from the only One who truely loves us with a perfect Love.   In the New Living Translation of Ephesians 3:17-19 Paul prays, "Then Christ will make His home in your heart as you trust in Him.  Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully.  Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." My Dad closes his notes to me with the phrase, "Love you forever, Dad." Because of the relationship we share, when I read those words I am filled with warmth, security and love because I know it is true. When we have an intimate relationship with God, His Words written to us in the Bible will evoke that same response.

Lord,
When you look to see if there are any who understand, who seek God, may you find me. I long to know You more.
Love You forever,
Your daughter.

Create In Me - Psalm 51:10-12

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from your presence; and take not they Holy Spirit from me.
Restore unto me the joy of my salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.

"Create in me a clean heart."
"for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." 2 Cor. 10:7
"Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." Proverbs 4:23
Renew a right spirit within me.
The Hebrew word for right in this verse is "kuwn" which is translated "right" 5 times in the Bible, but more often (143 times) it is translated prepared or established.
Our spirit is not to be tossed by the winds of circumstance or emotion, but established and prepared by the Spirit of God. Renew a steadfast spirit in me.
"Cast me not away from your presence: and take not your Holy Spirit from me."
I am not so sure that God casts us away as much as He casts our sin from His presence. "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us." However, we throw ourselves over a precipice, when we grapple to hold onto our sin while His ourstetched hand is calling to rescue us from hell and the grave.  We've all seen movies where a character perishes clutching onto some ill gotten treasure, while the main character is calling out to him, "Grab my hand!"
"Restore unto me the joy of my salvation"
In 1 Peter this joy is described as "joy unspeakable full of glory." Last night I watched a movie where 2 injured soldiers were stranded in the wilderness of Afghanistan surrounded by enemies and waiting for certain death when against all odds they are found and rescued by chopper. Tears of joy ran down their dirt caked faces as they embraced each other in relief and euphoric laughter.  This is a taste of the joy of salvation.
Uphold me with your free Spirit.
The word free here means willing, noble, princely.
"And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will: be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy left him."
This is the willing spirit that upholds us.

What Manner of Spirit - Luke 9:52-56

"...and they went and entered into the village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him.  And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem.  And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?  But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them."

On the surface, the words of these disciples might seem justified. They are even using scripture to back them up.  After all, these Samaritans rejected Christ. They "did not receive Him." Sometimes it is not the words or the actions we use that are inherently wrong, but the spirit behind them.  When Jesus spoke these words "he (had) steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem". That was the Spirit behind his words. Jesus said the words that I speak they are spirit  -and they are life.  Most words we speak are spirit of some manner, but not all are life. "  God says the power of life and death is in the tongue. We've all heard the phrase "it's not what you said but how you said it."  What really is the spirit behind our words? Is it judgment, self righteousness or anger? Or is it compassion, mercy, and love?

"Lord may my face be set toward Your cross and may this be the Spirit behind my words."

The Hidden Parts - Psalm 51:6

Behold, thou desireth truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom...

Can we be honest with God and honest with ourselves?  Nothing is hidden from God, but He desires for us to totally truthful in our responses to Him and others. The word used for hidden in this verse is the Hebrew word "catham" which means to stop up, to shut up, keep close, secret. It is used in other verses describing wells that were stopped up by enemies.  There are secret areas or wells in our life that the Lord wants to open. When we lay aside all self defense and self-justification and humbly allow the Holy Spirit to search us, He will make us to know wisdom in those areas we have hidden even from ourselves. He will open the channels that have been blocked or "stopped up" so His Spirit can flow freely through us and flow to others.

Unfathomable Love - Psalm 47:4

He shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah.

 "I lift my life to You and say, 'Father, You choose. You choose where I live. You choose who I marry or who my friends are. You choose what I do  and what I become. You know what is best and I trust in You. My hope is in You, Lord, the One who loved me when I was yet in my sin, the one who ransomed me with His own blood; the One who knew me in my mother's womb.   As You chose Jacob a deceiver and changed him into Israel, a prince with God; so You have chosen me. How can this be? I choose You, Lord, because your unfathomable Love chose me."

Follow the River - Psalm 45:1-5

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried away into the midst of the sea;
Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.
There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, The holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.
God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God will help her, and that right early.

Often I will see someone wearing a tee shirt that reads, "No Fear." But seldom do I encounter someone actually living those words. Fear comes in many forms - fear of man, fear of failure, fear of death, fear of the future or fear of some tragedy. But there is one thing I know with certitude. When calamity comes (and it will come,) "I will fear no evil..."  Why? - because "Thou art with me." I may be shaken, but I shall not be moved. God is my refuge and my strength, a very present help in trouble. He is the great I AM.  He speaks to my heart, "I AM your courage in the midst of discouragement. I AM your hope when all seems lost.  I AM your unfailing love when all others fail. I AM a very present help right now wherever you are.  Look within. There is a river flowing from my Throne and I AM there. Follow the river."

The King's Daughter - Psalm 45:6-15

Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre.   Thou lovest righteousness and hatest wickedness: therefore, God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.  All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad.   King's daughters were among thy honourable women: upon thy right hand did stand the queen in gold of Ophir.  Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine ear; forget also thine own people, and thy father's house; So shall the king greatly desire thy beauty: for he is thy Lord; and worship thou him.  And the daughter of Tyre shall be there with a gift; even the rich among the people shall entreat thy favour.  The king's daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold.  She shall be brought unto the king in rainment of needlework: the virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought unto thee. With gladness and rejoicing shall they be brought: they shall enter into the king's palace. To my daughter, The Lord once told me, "Walk like a queen."  And so I am endeavouring to learn exactly what that is. The Holy Spirit is leading and guiding me down that path. So now, my daughter,  I write you as one. You are part of a royal family. And holding such a place of honor carries with it responsibilites. Your King, has paid the highest price to ransom you from certain death. The price for your release was His only Son's blood. His Son, the apple of His eye, was tortured and put to a gruesome death that you might live. This is not a fairy tale - this is Truth. Do we not owe Him our gratitude and allegiance?  "King's daughters were among thy honourable women."  Do we not owe Him a life given over to honour? "The king's daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold."  Your are called to be wedded to a coming King. Will He find you ready and waiting dressed in golden purity with light in your eyes? Or will He marry someone else, because you left Him alone at the altar?  You were born my daughter for greatness and to be a light to the daughters of men. I once told you that you were an Esther to your generation. I still believe that. I am praying for you  and believe that my heart will be filled with joy as I watch you fulfill your destiny.

Light and Truth - Psalm 43:3-5

O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles. Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my God.  Why art thou cast down, O my soul?  and why art thou disquieted within me?  hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.



In the midst of life's battles the Word of God is like a flare that leads us to victory. There is a pop in our spirit and then an effusion of Light illuminates the darkness. Courage and relief flood our soul as the living Word glows on the horizon of our consciousness.  Victory is near.
When God's presence seems shrouded in obscurity and past feeling, my heart cries, "Send out Thy Light and Thy Truth: let them lead me; let them bring me to thy holy hill..." Then as I read His living Words, I hear a still small voice deep within saying softly,"This is the way. Walk ye in it." 

Yet Praise Him - Psalm 42:6-7

Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me?  Hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance. O my God, my soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill of Mizar.  Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of they waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me. Yet the Lord will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.

There are times of desperation when God seems distant and all seems lost.  It is at times like these that I step out of my self and speak to my soul.

"Why are you disquieted my soul. Hope in your God! You will yet praise Him for the help of his                 presence.  Even though you don't feel Him 'yet'  - praise Him. Even though you don't see victory 'yet' - praise Him. Even though your circumstances have not changed 'yet' - praise Him.   I will remember You, O God, and all you have rescued me from.  In the midst of a raging sea, deep within me reaches out to deep within You. Though waves of emotion wash over me, You will command your lovingkindness to carry me by day and your song shall be with me in the darkness as I pray to the God of my life. I will yet praise Him."

Unbridled Heart - Psalm 40: 5-8

Many, O Lord, my God, are they wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee:  if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.  Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offerings and sin offering hast thou not required.  Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.

O Lord, my God - the beginning of a real relationship with God starts with these 2 titles. A king lives in the kingdom which he rules and so the kingdom of God within begins with a surrendered heart. He must be our Lord before He can be our saviour.  But His is not a kingdom of harsh and bitter servitude. His thoughts are toward us and more than can be numbered. Like a beloved child is always on the heart of their parent, so we are always on his mind. Sacrifice and religious activites are not what he really desires nor has He required us to do pentance. What He really desires is simply for us to "come,"  to come and be with Him with an unbridled heart that delights to follow His.

                             O Lord, my God, I come. Engrave your Words upon my heart.

Anger Management - Psalm 37:7-11

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.  Cease from anger, forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be.  But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

What can stand before rage unruffled? What can stand before rebellion without fear? What can abide like an anchor in the midst of chaos? The answer is one of God's great paradoxes. Francis Frangipane put it beautifully in his book Holiness, Truth and the Presence of God when he said, "The holiest, most powerful voice that ever spoke described Himself as 'meek and lowly of heart." Meekness is the secret to mightiness.  Meekiness is not an insipid inferiority complex.  Meekness is a total relinquishment of my ability and my inability in a situation and utter dependence upon the power of God to intervene.  Meekiness is a leap of faith that says, "He is truly the God who sees in secret and He will reward me openly," eventually.  Meekiness is taking matters out of my hands and putting them into His. It is in this repositioning of myself under the shadow of the Almighty that I become invincible.

Holy Intent - Psalm 27:8

When thou saidst seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee,  Thy face, Lord, will I seek.

There is a vast difference between seeking God and studying or writing about His Word. Though one may involve the other,  one without the other will be fruitless. Meerly reading the Word is a working of the mind, but holy intent is a yearning from the heart. Holy intent is deep calling unto Deep. Holy intent is what ushers us into the Presence of the Living God who brings His Words to life. These are the Words that come from the mouth of God and not bread alone.  Seeking the face of God over  meerly learning about Him is what brings power and passion in our lives.

Lord, like the deer pants for water. So my soul pants for You. 

Lead me to Your springs of Living Water. 

Fountain of Life - Psalm 36: 5-9

Thy mercy, O Lord is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.
Thy righteosness is like the great mountains; thy judgements are a great deep; O Lord, thou preserveth man and beast.
How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust in the shadow of  thy wings.
They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
For with thee is the fountain of life: and in thy light we see light.

Lord, the beauty of the earth reflects your glory.  It's at once profound and peaceful and filled with awe.      These verses describe the bounty of a life who finds it's source in God. When taken as a whole the Psalm depicts a life without God and one with God and ends with David pleading that God would keep Him in His way. And so this is my prayer today. Lord lead me in Your ways. May I live in Your house, may I drink from your river of delights and may your fountain of living water stream from me today. Like an artesian well springing from the mountain of God, may your light, life and love flow out to the thirsty.

Tears Into Dancing - Psalm 35:9-10

And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord; it shall rejoice in his salvation. All my bones shall say, Lord, who is like unto thee, which deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that spoileth him?

Lord,
 When I think of all I was and where you have brought me I am so grateful.

"And when I passed by thee, and saw thee polluted in thine own blood, I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live; yea, I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live" Ezekiel 16:6

Now I live life abundantly! You have pulled me from the gutter and set me with You.






"He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and liftest up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory..."  ! Samuel 2:8

You have taken my shame and replaced it with honor. You have washed me of my filth with the water of your Word. My guilt has been removed as far as the east is from the west and you have changed my tears into dancing.

The Eyes of the Lord - Psalm 34:15- 19

The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry.
The face of the Lord is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
The righteous cry out, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.
The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.

The eyes, the ears, the face - these are faculties that convey nearness.   You know how you feel when you know someone is looking at you secretly. There is some sort of connection or presence that betrays the gaze.  The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous.  The word eyes here is the Hebrew word "ayin" which can be translated as physical eyes, but it also denotes mental and spiritual awareness.  The eyes of the Lord are upon us like the caressing gaze of a lover or the adoring aspect of a father. In Matthew 6, the phrase, "thy Father which seeth in secret," is repeated 3 times. Can you feel His gaze?  Juxtaposed in all these rapt intimations is the tragic verse - "The face of the Lord is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth." I use the term tragic, because I can think of no worse fate than being separated from the face of God. His ears are open to our cry like a loving parent jerked into alertness by the sound of their child in need. Even in a sea of other voices He hears. And finally, "The Lord is near unto them that are broken hearted and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."  In my brokenness the knowledge that He is near has comforted me. Often times a simple awareness, reveals the Presence that was there all along and draws Him from the shadows of our consciousness.  "Many are the afflictions of the righteous."  Trials and tribulation are a fact of life, especially for those seeking to live  holy in a fallen world.   But the promise of deliverance is sure. He will deliver me out of the ALL and spoil my captors in the process.

Lord, help me to live in the awareness of your gaze and may the intent of my heart be continually towards You, my source, my breath, my Beloved.

Selah - Psalm 32:7-8

Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.
I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way that thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

In this Psalm, I love how the dialogue jumps from David speaking to God to God speaking to the David. It is as if he ponders who God is at that moment in his life and voices it as much to himself as to God. "Thou art my hiding place, my refuge and sanctuary from the storm. You will get me through this tempest safely. You will envelope me in your presence and fill my heart with songs of victory." Then he tells himself, "Selah," pause and think about this. It is in the pauses and ponderings that God speaks.
"I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way that thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye."  What a comfort to know that when we don't know what to do or which way to turn. God is watching, guiding and giving us spiritual vision.

Into Your Hand - Psalm 31:5

Into thine hand I commit my spirit...

Into your hand, Lord, I commit my spirit. When I say these words my heart is filled with assurance and peace. These words where the last spoken by You on the cross and their power echoes still. When I am embattled, these words anchor my soul with certitude that You are in control, and I can rest knowing all will be well.

Eclipsed by Joy - Psalm 30:1-4

I will extol thee thee, O Lord; for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. O Lord my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me. O Lord thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. Sing unto the Lord, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.


Lord, You have brought me through so much. You have lifted me from the depths of despair and hopelessness. When I felt like giving up, You kept me alive. You have taken desperate situations and turned them into victories. I love that scripture that says. "Thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ and reveals through us the sweet aroma of his knowledge in every place."  I have found this to be true.  Battles may be lengthy and bloody, but victory is assured. It is impossible for me to lose if I don't give up. So - I have developed a strong stubborn streak! And in my struggles I have come to know You intimately. Like two comrades on the battlefield, I have come to know your faithfulness, your strength and your courage.   In your favor I  lift up my song of praise and my weeping is eclipsed by joy!

A Way in the Sea - Psalm 29:3-4 &10-11

The voice of the Lord is upon the many waters; the God of Glory thundereth: the Lord is upon many waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty... The Lord sitteth upon the flood; yea, the Lord sitteth King forever.  The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace.

Strength and Honour - Psalm 29:1-2

Give unto the Lord, O ye mighty, give unto the Lord glory and strength. Give unto the Lord the glory due  his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.

In the movie Gladiator, Maximus tells his men as they are preparing for battle that "What we do in life echoes in eternity."  and salutes them with the words, "Strength and Honour"  as their King watches on. Could this be giving the Lord glory and strength? It is more than mere words of acclamation. It is living boldly - fighting the fight of faith ruthlessly.  It is letting His glory and His strength manifest through us in a dark and dying world.

O my soul, you are mightier than you know. Remember who you are. The Word says that those who know their God will be strong and do great exploits! Oh that I would be such a one.  May I bring You honour, Lord, by living a life worthy of Your name.  May the beauty of your holiness cloth me today.  Strength and Honour

Desert Place - Psalm 27:7-10 and 13-14

Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek.
Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
When my father and mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up...
I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait I say , on the Lord.

Hear my cry, O Lord.  In Your mercy let me hear Your voice. Answer me and give my heart strength. When Your Spirit moves within me, saying "Seek my face."  My heart runs after You and says, "Here I am, Lord. I long to see Your face."  When I cannot find You, when I wander or fail You, have mercy on me and please don't give up on me in anger. You have been my help and redeemer from those who were against me, even when it was myself. I beg You never to leave me or forsake me.  You are my only hope of salvation...  I know in my heart that though all others may forsake me, Lord, You will lift me up.   I had fainted if I had not believed this. Where can I run from Your presence?  Even in the desert -- I hear the Sea - faintly.  Oh my soul, wait on the Lord: be of good courage. Don't quit and He shall strengthen your heart.

One Desire - Psalm 27:4-6

One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in His holy temple.
For in time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me upon a rock. And now shall my head be lifted up above my enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord.


There is only one thing I desire, Lord, and that is what I seek; oh that I might dwell with You all the days of my life - every moment. I want to bask in your beauty and learn from You.  In times of trouble I have found refuge in your secret place. Your presence is where I hide from strife and words that are like arrows aimed at my heart. You have set me on a rock that cannot be shaken. Now as I stand there, I can look down upon my enemies. I lift up to you songs of thanksgiving and joy. I will sing praises to you with all my heart!

Secret Place - Psalm 26:8

Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.

Lord, I have always loved beautiful houses. I enjoy building, designing  and creating homes that are romantic and have presence.  And You have blessed me beyond my dreams with them. But the home I love the most is Yours. Within me there is a habitation where You dwell and I love to meet with you there. It is awesome and immense and at the same time intimate and warm. Lord may it always be a place of honour and our secret place.

The Secret of the Lord - Psalm 25:4-14

Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths.  Lead me in thy truth and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day...Good and upright is the Lord: therefore will he teach sinners in the way.  The meek will he guide in judgement: and the meek will he teach his way...
All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies...The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.

Lord, show me Your ways and help me to walk in them. Lead me in your Truth and reveal to me their meaning. Let your Words live in me for only in You do I find freedom.  I will seek you all my days. You are so good and just, full of grace and mercy; your truth will deliver me from my sin. You describe yourself as "meek and lowly of heart." Help me to have such a heart, for it is to the meek you give understanding.  All your paths are mercy and Truth when I embrace your Words and walk in them.  The secret of the Lord, the intimate knowledge of God, is with those who deeply reverence You.  You will show him the wonders of living in a covenant with You. Lord I want to know You more.

King of Glory - Psalm 24:7-10

Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory?  The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, o ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory?  The Lord of host, he is the King of glory, Selah.

When I am in distress I hear Your Spirit saying, "Lift up your eyes. Lift up your downcast heart and look to Me. Open wide the ancient gates and the King of Glory will come in. Who is this King of Glory? Remember He is the Lord!  He is strong and mighty to save. Lift up your head, oh downcast heart.  There is an immense sanctuary in your soul, the dwelling place of the most High God. Your are stronger and greater than you think. Greater is He that is within you.  Lift up your gaze and open wide the gates of your heart and I will come rushing in. Who is the King of Glory? -- You know. He is the Lord of all the hosts of heaven - He is the King of Glory and He is in you!  Remember this.

Shepherd of my Soul - Psalm 23

The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in paths of righteousness for his name sake.
Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me: thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies:
thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

Thank you for guiding and caring for me, Shepherd of my soul. All my needs and desires are  in You, and I want for nothing.  You have brought me to a place of abundance and  in the soft meadow of your presence I can rest.  The still waters of your Spirit refresh me. You walk with me and lead me down paths of righteousness. As I walk with you I am changed. May I bring honour to your name Lord.  Even when I walk through the valley of adversity and death, they are but a shadow in your Light; and I fear nothing for You are with me. The rod and staff of your Word comforts me and guides me with gentle prodding.  They are a fearful weapon to my adversaries. They watch in dismay as you prepare a table for two and we dine together. You anoint my head with costly and precious oil. Your Spirit flows over and in me and I am overwhelmed with contentment. Surely your goodness and mercy will be with me all my days and I will dwell in Your presence forever.

You Inhabit My Praise - Psalm 22:1-3

My God, my God, why hast thou forsken me? Why art thou so far from helping me and from the words of my roaring? O my God, I cry in the daytime, but thou hearest not: and in the night season and am not silent. But thou art holy, o thou that inhabiest the praises of Israel.

These Words of yours cause my heart to tremble when I think of You saying them on the cross and they help me to remember that even if I do not feel you, You are there.  Even if my circumstances roar so load that I do not hear you, You hear me.  And so when I cannot sense You,  I know one place I can always find You  -  I meet You in my praise.  I will sing to You Lord and meet you in the sanctuary of my heart.  In the secret place, the holy place, You are waiting for me.

Secret Faults - Psalm 19:7-14

The Law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.  The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandments of the Lord are pure, enlightenening the eyes.  The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever: the judgements of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.  More to be desired are they than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honey comb.  Moreover by them is your servant warned: and in keeping them there is great reward.  Who can understand his errors?  Cleanse thou me from secret faults.  Keep back thy sevant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.

Word of God you are perfect. Change my heart and mind to follow after You always. What You say is certain and makes me wise. Your principles are right and cause my heart to rejoice. Your commandements are pure and full of Light.  They illuminate my path and my mind as I follow them. The deep awe and reverence of the Lord is pure in every way and endures forever. I tremble before You.  Your judgments are true and righteous altogether.  I desire them more than all riches - more than anything. They are sweeter than honey to my taste. I savour your Words like honey comb. You guide me and warn me with your living Words. They are Spirit and Life. When I embrace your Words and let them live in me, I find great reward and riches. I begin to know the love of God that passes understanding. No one truely understands their errors and weaknesses. But Lord, You understand me. You know my inward thoughts. Cleanse me from secret faults. Deliver me from those things I hide from myself and others. Hold me back from doing those things that are not appropriate for me as your daughter. Let no temptation or fleshly desire have dominion over me. Then I will be filled with innocence.  Let all my words and the meditations of my heart and mind bring You joy, my Lord - my Source and my Rescuer.

The Lord My Rock - Psalm 18:1-3

I love thee, O Lord, my strength.  The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliver; my God, my strength, in whom I trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.  I will call upon the name of the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from my enemies.

My hear whispers to you, "I love you, Lord. You are my strength."  Your presence within me is my rock, and my fortress when storms rage. You deliver me and give me strength to stand. In you I put all my trust. You hold me together and fill my life with abundant victories. You set me in the high tower of your presence above the fray. I will call upon your name my Lord, most Worthy of All Praise, and you will save me from all that rises against me.

The Apple of Your Eye - Psalm 17:6-8

I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear me, O God: incline thine ear unto me, and hear my speech.
Shew thy marvelous lovingkindnes, O thou that saves by thy right hand them which put their trust in thee from those that rise up against them.
 Keep me as the apple of your eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings.

I call to You and You hear my cry. You bow your ear Lord to listen to my words.  Show me your marvelous kindness and tender mercies. Save me from myself and mine enemy; for my life is in your hand. I put my trust in You alone. Keep me in Your heart as the apple of your eye. May I bring your delight. Hold me close to your heart in your warm embrace. Cover me in the shadow of your wings. In you I find my rest, my comfort and my peace.

My Deepest Joy - Psalm 16:7- 11

I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons. I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou will not leave my soul in hell; neither will thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at they right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Lord, I exalt You and adore You. Thank you for teaching me and leading me by Your Spirit. In the night my innermost being communes with You. You are always in my heart and mind, and you guide my steps and thoughts. Because you are at my side, I shall not be moved. You whisper in my ear, "This is the way. Walk ye in it." Therefore I have great peace and quiet joy. You lead me in paths of honor, abundance and humility. When circumstances rear their head I can rest knowing my ways are in your hands. Like your dear Son, you will not allow the jaws of hell to swallow me. Your will not allow the evil one to corrupt me, because your holiness is my covering and protection. You will show me the path of true life. It will get brighter and brighter.   In Your presence is my deepest joy. Nothing compares to being with You.

Resting Place - Psalm 14:2

The Lord looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God.                                                                                                         

                                                                                        photo by Candy Siklosi

Here I am Lord. Early will I seek You. Reveal yourself to me that I might be one that You feel understands You. Let me be a friend with whom you can rest unguarded. I love your presence.

Hear My Heart - Psalm 13:3-6

Consider and hear me, O Lord my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death;
Lest mine enemies say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved.
But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.
I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.
                                                                                                       Ps. 13:3-6

Lord, hear my heart. Open my eyes to behold your beauty. You are my heart's desire. You are my source. All my fountains are in You. Reveal yourself to me - live in me lest my enemies and my flesh prevail against me. Let them not have dominion over me. I trust in your mercy and grace and I rejoice in your sure victory in my life. I will sing to you. My heart overflows for you have blessed me beyond measure.