. . . I don't claim that I know everything about life. But one thing I am certain that apart from the love and mercies of Christ—I AM NOTHING. " But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."(Galatians 6:14). All to JESUS I surrender. . .all to Thee my Blessed Savior. . .I surrender all. Thank YOU my Precious LORD JESUS for all Your blessings in my life. I love YOU, and thank YOU for loving me first. Forever Yours--Erlinda Mejia Olson
Penned by: Erlinda Mejia Olson Sunday, June 21, 2026, at 02:07am CDST
As the old cliché goes, “You can never please everyone.”
Today, I reflect on what true love really means through the
lens of Scripture. It is comforting to know that the Bible defines love not as
something that manipulates or demands but as patient, kind, and unselfish. God
warns us against using guilt or compliance as measures of love because that
distorts His nature, which is all about grace and understanding our human
limitations.
Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 13:5
fills me with peace as it clearly states that love “does not demand its own
way” and is “not easily angered.” This reminds me that true love respects boundaries
and doesn't pressure or coerce others into compliance. It reassures me that it
is acceptable to stand firm in my limits and communicate them clearly, honestly,
and humbly, regardless of how others treat me.
Psalm
103:14 is a beautiful reassurance that God knows our weaknesses. He
understands that we are human and doesn’t expect us to do anything beyond our capabilities.
It brings me comfort to know that He measures love not by impossible demands,
but by what we can genuinely give.
2
Corinthians 8:12 also resonates deeply with me. It shares that God
accepts our service based on what we have, not on what we lack. This lets me
know that my heart and effort matter, even when I feel stretched thin.
Another vital lesson comes from Galatians 1:10,
which challenges me to prioritize God's approval over human judgments. There
are times when people ask more of me than I can give, and I need to remember
that my primary duty is to keep a clear conscience before God rather than
trying to meet unrealistic expectations set by others, either by family,
friends, or strangers.
As I navigate my relationships, I find wisdom in Proverbs. Proverbs 4:23
advises me to “guard my heart,” and Proverbs 22:3
encourages me to be prudent when facing danger. It is biblical to create
distance from toxic behaviors and emotional manipulation. This reflects a
healthy self-love and respect for God’s design for relationships.
As I move forward, I am committed to expressing my
boundaries clearly and finding peace and comfort in knowing that my worth comes
from God and not from the approval of others. I intend to meditate on these
Scriptures continually, trusting that God’s perspective will guide me in all my
interactions.Proverbs 3:5-6.
Would I like to explore further how to communicate these
boundaries effectively, or perhaps dive deeper into finding peace in God's
approval? Yes, I would, in the lens of God’s words. James 1:5. I believe this
is a worthwhile conversation to have in prayer and reflection.
Today marks a significant milestone in my life—I graduated
with my Master of Science in Nursing, with a focus on Leadership, at Grand Canyon
University, in Phoenix, Arizona. As I reflect on this journey, I cannot help
but recognize the grit and determination that carried me through the many
challenges I faced along the way. Balancing full-time work, school, and life’s
demands often felt overwhelming, yet through it all, my faith in Christ was an
unwavering anchor.
In moments when I was tempted to lose heart, I leaned
heavily on my trust in the LORD (Proverbs 3:5-6). Each
time I felt burdened by the weight of expectations, I found solace in praying
and surrendering my worries to Him. It was in these quiet moments of prayer
that I experienced a profound sense of peace, reassuring me that I was not
alone in this pursuit. The dreams I held felt more attainable when I relied not
solely on my strength, but on His (Philippians 4:13).
Throughout my journey, I have been immensely grateful to
those who genuinely stood by me. I owe so much to my husband,
David, whose prayers, unwavering patience, and support fueled my determination—my
husband’s belief in me provided strength during long nights of studying after
hard days at work, and in battles of self-doubt. Likewise, my mentors played instrumental roles, guiding me, pushing me, and uplifting me
every step of the way. Their encouragement reminded me that growth often comes
from the intersection of grit and grace.
This experience has taught me invaluable lessons about the
power of resilience, humility, and sacrifice. I learned that true grit is not
just about how hard you can push through; it is also about knowing when to
trust, when to lean on your faith (Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 41:10), and
when to accept help from others. I discovered a deeper understanding of my
calling to serve others—a conviction solidified in my heart by the grace I have
received (Jeremiah
29:11-13).
As I celebrate this achievement, I acknowledge that it is
not merely a personal milestone but a testament to Christ’s faithfulness in my
life (Galatians 2:20;
Galatians 6:14; Philippians 1:27). I know
it will not be easy, but I hope to apply what I have learned in the nursing
profession and to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those I encounter.
Each person I meet represents an opportunity to serve and share the love that
has been so generously given to me.
I give all glory to God through Christ, my Lord and
Personal Savior, whose strength has carried me through this journey.
May my story be one that reflects His grace, love, and the transformative power
of trusting Him through every challenge. To God be all the glory through Christ!
- Hebrews 12:2 -
"looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Penned by: Erlinda Mejia Olson Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 12:23pm CST
As the Christmas season unfolds, a sense of reflection and
celebration washes over many of us. We find ourselves aligning our hearts and
minds with the profound significance of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus
Christ. For us who are saved in Christ alone (read Ephesians 2:8-9), this
moment in history is not just a pivotal point for Christianity—it serves as a
turning point for all of humanity (read John 3:16). This
season holds an even deeper meaning, as we celebrate the gift of salvation and
the hope that His birth brings to our lives. The birth of the Lord Jesus stands as a cornerstone of our Christian
faith. It embodies hope, love, and redemption. In a humble manger, the Lord Jesus
entered the world not as a ruler but as a servant. In Luke 2:10-11, the angel
announced to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good
tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this
day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” His arrival
signifies God’s incredible gift to humanity—the promise of forgiveness and
eternal life (John 3:16).
This sacred act invites us to reflect on our lives and the purpose we fulfill
in our daily interactions.
In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it is easy
to be swept away by materialism, forgetting the true essence of Christmas.
Therefore, we must pause to cultivate gratitude. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages
us to “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication,
with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” Reflecting on
our Savior, “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith,” (Hebrews 12:2), brings us
back to the heart of Christmas, a reminder of the precious gifts of life and
love we experience daily. The festive season also urges us to connect not just with
our families but also with our wider community, living out the Lord Jesus’
teachings, in our everyday lives (read Matthew 28:18-20),
while reigniting our faith with fellow believers. Hebrews 10:24-25states, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good
works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together…” Numerous
churches and organizations organize events to celebrate Christ’s birth,
offering opportunities that deepen our sense of belonging and purpose. Yet, amid the holiday cheer, we must prioritize our
spiritual growth. Setting aside moments for prayer, scripture reading, and
meditation aligns our hearts with God’s purpose. Joshua 1:8 states, “This
Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it
day and night.” Reflecting on the nativity story (read Luke 2:1-20) invites
us to marvel at the fulfillment of God’s promises and reaffirm our faith in His
divine plan. As we approach the celebration of Christmas, let us align
ourselves with the birth of Jesus Christ and embrace the messages of love,
hope, and redemption He brings. Matthew 5:16 encourages us
to “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works
and glorify your Father in heaven.” This season, let us rejoice in the
miracle of His birth and commit ourselves to reflecting that love in every
aspect of our lives.
Wishing you all a blessed Christmas, filled with the joy and
peace that comes from knowing our Savior!
As I reflect on the countless blessings in my life, my heart overflows with gratitude and awe before my Heavenly Father. Through Christ Jesus, my Lord and Personal Savior, I have come to experience the vastness of His grace and the depth of His love in ways that words can scarcely express. Today, I want to offer a humble thanksgiving—a song of praise for all He has done and continues to do in my life.
This week of Thanksgiving, and every day, I recommit my life to praising Him with every breath."I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."(Galatians 2:20 NKJV). May His glory increase while mine grows dim, and may my heart always overflow with reverence and gratitude to the Heavenly Father through Christ Jesus, my Lord and Savior.
ALL OF THESE
(Steve Petit Evangelistic Team, 2014)
How vast His grace
How great His faithfulness
How deep His love
How rich His mercy
How high His thoughts
How sure His wisdom
And all of these He gives to me.
So I will praise Him with every breath
For He has rescued me from certain death
And now this life I live I live in Him
Oh let His glory shine while mine grows dim.
How just His ways
How good His discipline
How pure His truth
How kind His goodness
How calm His peace
How long His patience
And all of these He gives to me.
So I will praise Him with every breath
For He has rescued me from certain death
And now this life I live, I live in Him
Oh let His glory shine while mine grows dim.
How vast His grace (How broad His pow’r)
How great His faithfulness (How grand His majesty)
How deep His love (How true His grace)
How rich His mercy (How bright His glory)
How high His thoughts (How strong His might)
How sure His wisdom (How clear His triumph)
And all of these (And all of these) He gives to me.
So I will praise Him with every breath
For He has rescued me from certain death
And now this life I live I live in Him
Oh let His glory shine
Oh let His glory shine
Oh let His glory shine
While mine grows dim.
How Vast His Grace, How Great His Faithfulness ...
Every day, I am reminded of how limitless God's grace truly is. No matter my shortcomings or failures, His faithfulness remains unwavering. He lifts me up from despair and fills me with hope. His love runs deeper than any ocean, and His mercy is more abundant than I could ever deserve. I marvel at the richness of His kindness, the height of His thoughts, and the certainty of His wisdom. All of these, He freely gives to me—not because of anything I have done, but because of who He is.
Because He has rescued me from certain death and given me new life, my soul cannot help but sing His praises. Each breath I take is a gift from Him—a reminder that my life is now hidden in Christ. I want every moment, every word, and every action to reflect my gratitude. My prayer is that as I live for Him, His glory would shine ever brighter while my own fades into the background. This is true reverence: to let His majesty be seen in all I do.
God's ways are always just, and His discipline is always good. In moments of correction and refinement, He shows His deep love for me as a father lovingly guides his child. His truth is pure, His goodness is kind, His peace is calming, and His patience endures longer than I can comprehend. All these beautiful qualities, He pours out on me daily, shaping my heart to be more like His.
I am continually amazed by how grand His majesty is, how strong His might, how bright His glory, and how clear His triumph. In all things, His hand is at work, weaving together the story of my life for His purposes. My greatest desire is that His glory would shine through me—that the world would see Him, not me.
“So I will praise Him with every breath,
For He has rescued me from certain death.”
To God be all the glory and honor through Christ Jesus, my Lord and Personal Savior!
"'Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."' (John 14:6)
Exodus 34:6-7—“And the Lord passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children and the children’s children to the third and the fourth generation.”
Penned by: Erlinda Mejia Olson
On Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 13:40 CST
The first time I heard the soul-stirring song "The Goodness of God," I could not stop humming its beautiful melody and singing its heartfelt lyrics. It resonated within me like an unspoken expression of my profound adoration for my magnificent God and King. Each morning, I cherish listening to uplifting Christian music, as it inspires my spirit and sets my day on a positive path, much like the peace found in morning devotionals. This morning was no exception; the music felt like a refreshing balm compared to the relentless barrage of news that often fills the day.
It’s the Year 2025! I thank the LORD for another chance to have Him make a difference, transforming change in my life and in those around me. Today, the lyrics of "The Goodness of God" deeply captured my attention. From the moment I first experienced this song, I have found myself singing it countless times, even during moments at work when I am focused on caring for my patients at the bedside. The words wrap around me like a comforting embrace, serenading my tired body and lifting my weary soul. As I reflected on its message, I felt an overwhelming sense of God's goodness enveloping me, igniting a desire to praise Him—not just for what He has done in my life, but for who He is at His core. I poured my heart into singing about His goodness, filled with gratitude and joy.
God embodies goodness in its purest form, an integral aspect of His divine nature. He is the very definition of what it means to be good. Exodus 34:6 proclaims that God is rich in goodness, offering a profound glimpse into His character. In this powerful passage, the Lord reveals Himself to Moses, displaying such an overwhelming glory that Moses, carefully shielded by God's hand, can only catch a fleeting glimpse of the back of His radiance. This verse hints at the vastness of God's goodness; mere human words fall short of fully illustrating its depth.
God is merciful but also compassionate and gracious, generously forgiving our sins. His heart is filled with patience; He is slow to anger and offers us the gift of time to seek Him in repentance rather than meeting the immediate punishment we may deserve. How fortunate we are to experience such grace! His goodness is not just present; it overflows, filling every space in our lives. It calms our anxieties, binds our wounds, and pours the soothing oil of gladness upon our sorrows. God is goodness itself—an unfathomable source of love and light that transcends our understanding and enriches our lives in ways we can scarcely imagine.
His goodness is more than just enough; it is a profound and unwavering force that flows from a deep well of love and compassion—true mercy. This goodness sustains me in my everyday life and offers comfort for the eternity that lies ahead. As a wife, daughter, sister, aunt ... a simple friend ... in my profession as a Registered Nurse and a servant, I feel immense responsibility for the well-being of my husband, my loved ones, my friends, my patients, and even the generations that will follow, many of whom I will never meet. I take solace in knowing that God's goodness extends far beyond my life; it IS sufficient for all of them. The next verse beautifully reveals that His goodness and mercy reach a thousand generations, creating a legacy of hope.
... Your goodness is running after, it's running after me ...
The song evokes a vivid image of God's goodness as it actively pursues me, chasing after me with an unwavering fervor. I find immense gratitude in this truth, especially during those challenging moments when I wander away from His comforting presence. No matter how far I try to run, His boundless mercy and goodness continue to chase me down, steadfast and relentless, refusing to let me slip away. This pursuit brings an overwhelming sense of comfort as I recognize that the same divine goodness envelops my loved ones, ensuring their protection and guiding them through life’s journey for years. I often find myself lost in thought, pondering the prayers of my ancestors who may have lifted me and set in motion the countless blessings and acts of kindness that have touched my life. Thank You, my LORD, for Your everlasting love and for ceaselessly pursuing me, even when I stray! Oh, the goodness of God!
Luke 2:7-11~"And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."
Happy Birthday, LORD JESUS! YOU ARE THE REASON FOR THE SEASON! And, the real gift is You! May Your holy name be most glorified! Our prayers for a blessed Christmas, and Your blessings in the new year!
PSALM 34:8 ~ "Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!
In countless times, I hear people say, "God is good!", when all is well in their lives. When God grants their petitions—hearts are singing, praising God with a big mouth, claiming the goodness of the LORD in the midst of their "rosy" circumstances. However, it does make me feel blessed to see people making a loud declaration unto the LORD for His goodness. But what about those times when God is silent. When your prayer petitions have not been answered, and if they were, God said, "No"? Would you still have the audacity to "toot your horn" to God, and declare, without hypocrisy, that God is good?
Friend, with all good intentions, as much as it has blessed me every time the LORD bequeaths your prayer petition, and I can see joy and happiness overflowing in your heart, and at the top of your voice, you gladly shout that, "God is good!", and I say, "to God be the glory", but it would be much more of a blessing to me that even though you are not sitting in your ivory palace, when you are not standing at the mountain top, when you lose control of your life and the life of others, when other people look down on you, mock you, that, in whatever shape, color your life issues are—you are still praising the LORD with all your heart, mind and strength, declaring in all humility that the LORD is good; That to me—is an admirable attribute of someone who professes to be a Christian. And I want to say, "walking as a wise Christian", an uncommon trait that should become a part of our walk as saved Christians, because the power of Christ through the Holy Spirit, is resting in us. I know it is not easy to be singing and praising God when our life is in "topsy-turvy". However cursing, blaming, getting cold-feet before a Holy God, is not the solution. You need to unwrap your mind of the idea that the goodness of the LORD is depicted on how well your life is, when He answers your prayers, when you get what you have asked from Him. Because such superficial image of how good the LORD, is perilous to your faith, thus leading you to an unhealthy walk with the LORD. As the Psalmist says in Chapter 34, "tastes and see that the LORD is good." (v. 8). Unless you unveil your eyes with such belief, you cannot taste and see His goodness. As A. W. Tozer claimed that we tend, "by a secret law of the soul", to be drawn toward and grow to resemble our mental image of God. Hence, Tozer was persuaded that what comes to your mind when you think about God is the most important thing about you. Deep thoughts of God bring us into pure worship and a sanctified walk, while shallow thoughts of God defile our hearts and corrupt our walk. In other words—you become what you believe about God.
Let us be reminded that God didn't create evil. However, for now, for His divine purpose, God allows evil, and can even turn it into good. He has already conquered Satan and sin through His Son Jesus Christ on the Cross, and someday Christ's victory on the Cross will be implemented, and there will be no more Satan, sin, or evil. The LORD Jesus Christ is God’s only perfect antidote for evil, a cure which overcomes evil one way and one way only—with good. The LORD Jesus, as God in the flesh, came to earth almost 2000 years ago to manifest the true nature of God as being good, love, truth, light, and Spirit. No Old Testament saint saw the perfect goodness of God. Only Jesus absolutely reflected, and still reflects, the true nature of our Heavenly Father. "No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him." (John 1:18).
"This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all." (1 John 1:5)
Father in Heaven, I praise You for Your goodness! Everything that You have done, and will do in my life, is all good. I have tasted and seen Your goodness—both in abundance and in scarcity, in light and in darkness. I am grateful for Your grace and mercy that abound always in my best more so in my worst. In Your goodness, Oh LORD, I am able to journal—to impart my new life in You before the watching world. I love You, LORD. You are a Good and Awesome God! I praise You in the name of Your Perfect Son, Jesus Christ, amen.
Song:
THE PRECIOUS SUNLIGHT
By: Warren E. Barney, 1911
Praise the Lord, there’s sunlight in my happy soul today,
Brighter than the glorious noon;
Christ, the Light, is shining in my heart and on the way,
I shall rise to glory soon.
Refrain:
Oh, the precious sunlight,
Oh, the precious sunlight,
Shining as the morning in my soul;
Let its crystal rays inspire our hearts with praise;
Oh, there’s sunlight in my soul!
Praise the Lord, there’s singing in my happy soul today,
Precious music to my Lord,
Cheering me with rapture as I pass along the way,
Sing, oh, sing in sweet accord.
Praise the Lord, there’s springtime in my happy soul today,
All is evergreen and fair,
Where the flow’rs are blooming and the dove of peace doth stay,
Oh, what treasures rich and rare!
Praise the Lord, there’s sweetness in my happy soul today,
“Taste and see the Lord is good”;
For His peace and glory I would ever live, and pray
That my life be as it should.
Praise the Lord, there’s gladness in my happy soul today,
Oh, what pleasure I have found!
From His sacred presence I would never, never stray,
In His love I would abound.
Penned by: Erlinda Mejia Olson on Saturday, 1st of September 2012 at 11:14AMCDST Posted on Sunday, 12th of June 2022 at 6:33AMCDST
GALATIANS 6:14 ~ "But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."
My heart is always heavy every time I come before in the presence of a Holy God. Because, I am unworthy. Unworthy of all His goodness. Unworthy of His death on the Cross. Unworthy of serving Him—in writing and sharing every journal to every soul out there. Unworthy of reaching out the familiar and unfamiliar territories.
Such "things in life" that bolted my heart in pride, I have then truly despised. My sins have brought me into a dark, empty deep hole because I took my eyes off of my Savior. My soul is crying out, "Enough is enough! No more of the devil’s lie! No more of the flesh that would eat me alive! No more of the dark, empty deep hole!" I say, "No more!"
Yes, my Friend, I am unworthy. Unworthy to even speak with you through this journal. Unworthy to even share with you this life’s journey because there is nothing worth talking about that I should boast except in the Cross of my LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ.
My life is filthy apart from the LORD, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," (Romans 3:23).
I am not ashamed to admit that I had been guilty of being a hypocrite myself. There were many times when I failed to practice what I have written and said, when I should. I have struggled greatly in this area of my Christian journey. I have asked the LORD to search my heart. To reveal to me the hypocritical areas of my life, particularly in my "spiritual life" for from it springs all the issues of life. I cannot worship and serve the LORD by wearing a mask. I cannot propel based on my own self-righteousness, but only by the righteousness I have in Jesus Christ. I just cannot live my faith for men's applause or the approval of others. Should I be rejected by the society all because of my LORD Jesus Christ, so be it. I can only imagine my LORD saying, "Welcome to the rejected club, My child. I know, and can relate to exactly how you feel." with a big smile on His merciful face. I plea to the LORD that He would cultivate in my heart a desire to live a spiritual life that is both consistent in public and private life. That I would become more spiritually zealous for Him whether people will see me or not. That I don't need to please anyone, but the LORD—who sees and knows every single thing that I think, say, or do. It would not matter anymore if someone cares for this journal or not, but the LORD—It is He whom I revere with all my heart, my soul, my mind, my strength. It is He whom I am serving. It is He whom I am seeking to please and no other.
I am unlovely but the Lord Jesus is altogether lovely.
He is the One worthy. The Only One worthy of praise and honor!
I take no merits of whatsoever to elate myself above others, except the fruit of humility and spiritual growth that comes from knowing the LORD through His Word. That keeps my feet on the ground. The LORD may choose to use a worm like me as He pleases because He is God and I am not.
I am a much greater sinner than any souls out there. I am unworthy.
And yet in my unworthiness. In my filthiness. Christ loved me and died for me (Galatians 2:20). Such truth melted my heart of stone and tore down the walls of pride in my sick heart. Christ placed His worthiness into my unworthy soul simply because He loved me. I am His — now and the life to come.
I am unworthy.
Yes.
But, the LORD Jesus said:
"I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake; And I will not remember your sins." (Isaiah 43:25)
"I have blotted out, like a thick cloud, your transgressions, And like a cloud, your sins. Return to Me, for I have redeemed you." (Isaiah 44:22)
"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." (John 15:5)
Therefore, I abide in the LORD and serve Him in Truth no matter what the cost, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain."(Philippians 1:21). "I love the LORD, because He has heard my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, Therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live." (Psalm 116:1-2). "We love Him because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19).
I am a great sinner, but Christ is the Great Savior! To my Heavenly Father be all the glory in Jesus Christ, my Lord and Personal Savior!
So I ask you my Friend, is Jesus Christ the Lord and Personal Savior of your life—now and the life to come? Is He your Great Savior? If not, I hope you make Him so.💓💓💓
"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)
"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." (John8:36)
Posted on Monday, 22nd of March 2021 at 20:33PM DST
LAMENTATIONS 3:21-23 ~ "This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness."
God works it in the secret of our heart. God urges us by the hidden power of His Holy Spirit to come and speak it out, and we have to bring and to yield to Him that absolute surrender. But remember, when you come and bring God that absolute surrender, it may, as far as your consciousness go, be a thing of great imperfection, and you may doubt and hesitate and say:
But, oh, remember there was once a man to whom Christ had said: "Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief." (Mark 9:23-24)
That was a faith that triumphed over the Devil, and the evil spirit was cast out. And if you come and say: "Lord, I yield myself in absolute surrender to my God," even though it be with a trembling heart and with the consciousness: "I do not feel the power, I do not feel the determination, I do not feel the assurance," it will succeed. Be not afraid, even in the midst of your trembling the power of the Holy Spirit will work.
"But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." (Hebrews 11:6)
Have you never yet learned the lesson that the Holy Spirit works with mighty power, while on the human side everything appears feeble? Look at the Lord Jesus Christ in Gethsemane. We read that He, "through the eternal Spirit," offered Himself a sacrifice unto God. The Almighty Spirit of God was enabling Him to do it. And yet what an agony and fear and exceeding sorrow came over Him, and how He prayed! Externally, you can see no sign of the mighty power of the Holy Spirit, but the Spirit of God was there. And even so, while you are feeble and fighting and trembling, in faith in the hidden work of God's Holy Spirit do not fear, but yield yourself.
~ Psalm 62:7-8 ~
My soul, wait silently for God alone,
For my expectation is from Him.
He only is my rock and my salvation;
He is my defense;
I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory;
The rock of my strength,
And my refuge, is in God.
Trust in Him at all times, you people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us.
And when you do yield yourself in absolute surrender, let it be in the faith that God does now accept of it. That is the great point, and that is what we so often miss—that believers should be thus occupied with God in this matter of surrender. I pray you be occupied with God and the things of God. We want to get help, every one of us, so that in our daily life God shall be clearer to us, God shall have the right place, and be "all and all." And if we are to have that through life, let us begin now and look away from ourselves, and look up to God. Let each believe—while, I, a poor worm on earth trembling child of God, full of failure and sin and fear, bow here, and no one knows what passes through my heart, and while in simplicity say, O God, I accept Thy terms, I have pleaded for blessing on others and myself, I have accepted Thy terms of absolute surrender—while your heart says that in deep silence, remember there is a God present that takes note of it, and writes it down in His book, and there is a God present who at that very moment takes possession of you. You may not see it, you may not realize it, but God takes possession if you will trust Him.
Isaiah 55:8-9 ~ '"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," says the Lord. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts."'
Not only God claims it, and works it, and accepts it when I bring it—but God maintains it.
Isaiah 43:1-3a-b ~ "But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior;"
Isaiah 43: 4-5 ~ "Since you were precious in My sight, You have been honored, And I have loved you; Therefore I will give men for you, And people for your life. Fear not, for I am with you;"
Isaiah 43:7 ~ "Everyone who is called by My name, Whom I have created for My glory I have formed him, yes, I have made him."
Isaiah 43:11 ~ "I, even I, am the Lord, And besides Me there is no savior."
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LORD Jesus,Thank You that we can come to You in absolute surrender, and that You accept it. Help us to serve You with utmost surrender and obedience to You word, to Your will according to the power of Your indwelling Holy Spirit in us. In Your mighty name I pray. Amen.
Posted on Friday, December 25th, 2020 at 8:37amCST
1 SAMUEL 12:24 ~ "Only fear the Lord, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you." LUKe 2:11 ~ "For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."
Isaiah 9:6—"For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His
shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
As Christmas Day is fast unfolding, we understand all the joys and cheers this Season brings. However, let us NOT forget that the message of Christmas is the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and NOT us. Christmas is about LOVE and GIVING and NOT about ourselves and receiving.
Christmas is NOT how much gifts or fancy food we have on our table, but how much our heart beats for the LOVE of God that is so great of a salvation, by GIVING His only begotten Son, the LORD JESUS CHRIST:
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16).
Should God, in His grace, bless us with gifts, then let it be so according to His will and purpose, as He provides, and NOT by self-seeking or out of greed.
As we reflect on what God has done in our own lives all these years, we hope that you would also do the same. Let us reflect and thank God for giving us His Son and thank His Son, the LORD JESUS, for His willingness to humble Himself and left His Kingly throne more than 2,000 years ago because of His LOVE for US.
Let us be reminded, that without the birth of the LORD JESUS, there would be NO Christmas that we all so cherish and enjoy. After all, the LORD JESUS—is the "REASON FOR THE SEASON!"
May God be most glorified through our Messiah, our Lord and Saviour, King JESUS CHRIST.
ღღღ ~ A Room In Our Hearts ~ By: David and Erlinda Olson
(originally written at the Lord's Pilgrim's Road
on Tuesday, December 9th, 2014 at 6:12amPST)
~Luke 2:7~ "And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn."
You left Your Father’s home
Your Kingly crown and Heavenly throne
In a humble manger You were borne
Wrapped in swaddling cloths,
And without a permanent home. You willingly came down to earth
To dwell among sinful people—
People who are self-seeking and lost
Blinded by their own righteousness—
Who refused to come into the light. A true pilgrim You were
Traveling from place to place.
Earthly things You never desire—
Though You are the Creator,
And Owner of All. You live a life here on earth,
Mocked and disowned.
Yet sinless and perfect—
A sacrificial Lamb for all.
Your obedience to Your Heavenly Father,
And Your love for the world
Gave way to Your victory—
The power of sin is finally broken,
Triumphant on the Cross. You knocked at hearts’ doors
And a room You have found.
Willingly surrendered—
Our souls, our lives. Our All.
Now and always … You dwell in our hearts.
LORD JESUS, Thank You for Your willingness to leave Your Heavenly glory so You could dwell with us, and ultimately saved us. We are not worthy of Your goodness. Help us to live a life that always seeks to please You. May it always be in our hearts that Christmas is You. Celebrating Your glorious nativity! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to You, LORD JESUS, our Great Saviour and King, the Messiah and the Redeemer of all mankind!
Have a Blessed and Joyous Christmas Season!
ღღღ Meditation Scriptures: ~ Matthew 1:1-17~
The Genealogy of Jesus the Messiah This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham: Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of King David. David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife, Solomon the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asa, Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram, Jehoram the father of Uzziah, Uzziah the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amon, Amon the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jeconiah and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon. After the exile to Babylon: Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abihud, Abihud the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Akim, Akim the father of Elihud, Elihud the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah. Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah.
~ John 3:17-18 ~
"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."
~ Luke 1:30-33 ~
"Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.""
~ 1 John 2:15-16 ~
"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world."
~ Deuteronomy 10:17-19a ~ "
For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe. He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing. Therefore love the stranger,"
~2 Corinthians 9:7 ~
"So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver."
~ Romans 8:38-39 ~
"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
