Thursday, December 29, 2016

HE goeth before them, and the sheep follow HIM; for they know HIS VOICE...

"And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him; for they know not the voice of strangers." John 10:5


Reading through the gospel of John, I was reminded yet again of the the Lord Jesus Christ as the Shepherd. 

A Shepherd who watches over His sheep. 

It is of such comfort to  know that  I have a Shepherd who watches over me.... who goes before me and protects me from what may lie ahead... who always has a watch over my life, and makes sure that I am protected from all alarms. He feeds me, He guides me. He provides for my every need. His presence is with me wherever I go! Oh the  peace in knowing that I am His...

And while I know that I have a Shepherd who watches over me, I realize that as a sheep I am to follow Him and stay clear of all that has the appearance of evil. 

"Abstain from all appearance of evil." 
1 Thessalonians 5:22

The world is full of attractions, temptations, pleasures... all of which can distract and draw us away from following the Shepherd.  We are to abstain from sin... and whatsoever looks like sin.

Lately, I've thought upon the need to "test all things"... because it is quite easy to listen to  "teachings" that may sound good and pleasing... but  is contrary to the  Word of God. 

"Cease, my son, 
to hear the instruction 
that causeth to err 
from the words of knowledge." 
Proverbs 19:27

The Sheep know the voice of the true Shepeherd... and they know not that of a stranger! 

How vital it is that we feed on the WORD OF GOD... to know the voice of truth and discern good from evil. 

" But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, 
even those who by reason of use 
have their senses exercised 
to 
discern both good and evil."  
Hebrews 5:14

Oh, the importance of following the Shepherd... 

" And turn ye not aside: 
for then should ye go after vain things, 
which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain." 
1 Samuel 12:21

It's good to be occupied with... that which is good, pure, lovely... and do away with evil from our lives. 

 "...yet I would have you wise
 unto that which is good, 
and simple 
concerning evil."
 Romans 16:9

How marvelous and worthy to be praised... is the Lord Almighty...the King... the Shepherd of our souls! 

Heavenly Father, What joy to know that your hand is over us, leading and guiding us unto truth. Thank you for your faithfulness and care of our souls. May we be ever mindful of following your commands and fleeing from all that causeth us to err. 

May you be encouraged to offer sacrifices of praise to our Heavenly Father who watches over His own. " Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things He hath done for you." 1 Samuel 12:24

~Ellie

Saturday, December 17, 2016

But HE held His peace...

"And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said,  Why was this waste of the ointment made? 
For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. 
And they murmured against her." Mark 14:4,5

While reading through the book of Mark, I came across moments in the life of the Lord Jesus where He displays His character in a most meaningful way.... righteously...  looking at the heart and motive of every individual.

Do you ever find yourself  acting just like the Pharisees, or the scribes for that matter...  or even the publicans. 

I think how often I read of the Lord's admonitions to those who thought themselves "righteous" ... and yet, find my life an exact replica. I'm full of indignation, judgement, and often lack compassion. 

Do we hold our peace and not quickly judge someone's actions because, well,  " they shouldn't have done it that way " or " they could have done something better with ___" . 

I thought how often we jump to conclusions and have no idea behind the motive of a person's actions. We too, can be blind... as were the people who were full of indignation towards Mary's "waste" of such precious ointment.

You know,  the Lord always shows us how we ought to live... we need only to learn His ways and follow in His footsteps. 

"He that saith he abideth in Him
 ought himself also so to walk, 
even as He walked." 
1 John 2:6

May the Lord help us to hold our peace.

"For even hereunto were ye called: 
because Christ also suffered for us, 
leaving us an example, 
that ye should follow His steps." 
1 Peter 2:21

Precious Father, how often we fail to walk as Jesus walked. Forgive us our  iniquities that we commit against you and man. Keep us lowly and meek so that we may not be wise in our own eyes. May the working of our Lord Jesus Christ and His presence  in our lives be evident in the way we speak and act today.

May you be filled with compassion and walk in the footsteps of our Lord Jesus Christ.

~Ellie

Monday, November 14, 2016

Blessed be GOD... who comforteth us in all our tribulation.

" I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD..." Psalm 71:16

This morning I was so encouraged and thanked the Lord for His presence in my life. What a wonderful thought and comfort it is to have a Friend in the Lord Jesus... a Friend  like no other.

Do you find yourself bearing the load of your burden alone... and forgetting that Christ is our only comfort?

As we all face the trials and temptations of this world, I thought of the comfort found in the Lord Jesus and the peace He gives.  

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: 
not as the world giveth, give I unto you. 
Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
John 14:27

Sometimes we may find a quick "fix"  and our problems bandaged for the time being through various means... and it can be a simple pouring of our hearts to someone other than the Lord Jesus.  But I find myself  never in complete rest or peace until I bring my burdens and cares to the Lord. He alone gives me the "peace that passeth all understanding" ... and what my heart needs. 

Unlike earthly friends, the Lord Jesus

... never disappoints, 
....never judges,
... never looks down upon me.

He understands, He cares, He comforts and covers me with His protective arms. He helps me up when I fall. He is ever present with me... 

"The LORD upholdeth all that fall, 
and raiseth up all those that be bowed down." 
Psalm 145:14

Indeed, there is no other Friend like the LORD JESUS. 

I heard the following Hymn not too long ago and found it a wonderful reminder and encouragement for the burdened soul. May it uplift you as it did me...

ALL YOUR ANXIETY ALL YOUR CARE
Edward H. Joy, 1920

Is there a heart o’erbound by sorrow?
Is there a life weighed down by care?
Come to the cross, each burden bearing;
All your anxiety leave it there.

Refrain:
All your anxiety, all your care,
Bring to the mercy seat, leave it there,
Never a burden He cannot bear,
Never a friend like Jesus!

No other friend so swift to help you,
No other friend so quick to hear,
No other place to leave your burden,
No other one to hear your prayer.

Come then at once; delay no longer!
Heed His entreaty kind and sweet,
You need not fear a disappointment;
You shall find peace at the mercy seat.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for being the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our tribulation. Thank you for giving us a Friend in the Lord Jesus Christ who understands all our cares and infirmities and is a faithful and merciful High priest. We thank you that we can find complete rest and peace in your presence.

May you find rest and peace in the faithfulness of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Go ye and LEARN what that meaneth, " I will have MERCY and NOT SACRIFICE..."

" For I desired MERCY and NOT sacrifice; and the KNOWLEDGE OF GOD more than burnt offerings." Hosea 6:6

What is mercy? As I read and meditate on the WORD I marvel at my weakness... and stand in awe at the Lord's goodness!

I marveled this morning while reading through the account of the Lord Jesus sitting down and eating with the publicans and sinners...
Yes, publicans and sinners.

Matthew 9:10-13

"  And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples.

And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?

But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.

But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. "

How in need I am of the LORD GOD. 
How easily I find myself just like the Pharisees... judging, finding fault, and lacking compassion. 
Do you ever find yourself "whole"... and not in need of a Physician? 
Do you ever find yourself thinking that you are " sacrificing unto the Lord"... but lack mercy toward another?  

The Lord's admonition to the Pharisees, is also good for me. I  must learn and know what it means to show mercy.

I thought about how quickly I judge another person and find so many faults... because, well, they "aren't as they should be". Sometimes I look too long(way too long) at the speck in the eye of another person.  Do you do the same?  

In the light of God's Word,  I'm ashamed at how shallow my "goodness and faithfulness" to the Lord can be. 
I can be very faithful in my morning devotion, but does it go away throughout the day when I'm faced with showing kindness to a "publican" or "sinner"?

" O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? 
for your goodness is as a morning cloud, 
and as the early dew it goeth away." 
Hosea 6:4

Mercy... showing kindness and compassion... pardoning iniquity. 
Mercy... learned only through the knowledge of God.

" Who is a God like unto Thee, 
that pardoneth iniquity, 
and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? 
He retaineth not His anger for ever, 
because He delighteth in mercy. 
He will turn again, 
He will have compassion upon us; 
He will subdue our iniquities; 
and Thou wilt cast all our sins into the depths of the sea."  
Micah 7:18,19

God's mercy on us(when we didn't deserve it)...ought to be the same mercy we show toward one another.

Faithful and loving Father, we humbly acknowledge our sins before you. How often we too, like the Pharisees, judge and find fault in others. Teach us and guide us to walk in humbleness of mind, laying aside all forms of selfish pride and self-works. Help us to learn what it means to have compassion, mercy and love  through the help of your Holy Spirit. 

May you look unto the Lord Jesus Christ and learn of His ways... His gentleness, compassion and faithfulness that always brought glory to the Father.
~Ellie

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

The MEEK will HE guide... the MEEK will He teach His way..

"What man is he that feareth the LORD? Him shall HE teach in the way that HE shall choose. His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth." Psalm 25: 12,13

This past week I was reading through Matthew 5, the well known chapter where the Lord Jesus teaches of the blessings reserved for those who follow Him. 

And as I read through the various characteristics the Lord Jesus mentions in the Beatitudes, I stopped and reflected on the importance of having a MEEK spirit. 

Meekness isn't the easiest of characteristics... but it describes the Lord Jesus fully. It should also describe us as believers...

MEEKNESS (def.): 1) a calm temper of mind, not easily provoked, 2) submissive, lowly, humble, 3) having or showing a quiet and gentle nature, 4) enduring injury with patience and without resentment

If we look at the various definitions, we find the Lord Jesus was the embodiment of meekness.  

I remember when I first started memorizing verses a few years back... and I remember the excuses that I made... all because I "couldn't memorize". However, my heart yearned to know more of  my Lord and Saviour... and I knew I could only grow in my knowledge of Him though His WORD.  So I started with a familiar verse... 

" Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me
for I am meek and lowly in heart: 
and ye shall find rest unto your souls." 
Matthew 11:29

Little did I realize, but it was the perfect verse that would teach me and grow me in the knowledge of the Lord. The verse has taken me on a most rewarding journey... that I would learn of Him. 

But in order to learn of Him... well, my heart had to be adorned in humility.

" Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, 
and receive with meekness the engrafted word
which is able to save your souls." 
James 1:21

We are in no way teachable if we do not have fear of the Lord and be found meek and lowly in heart. We must lay aside all forms of pride. Truly, He alone must take precedence and have complete control of our whole being.... body, soul and mind.

How I need the Lord's yoke... to guide and direct me...and to teach me. Only then will my soul "find rest" or "dwell at ease".

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the Lord Jesus Christ who is the perfect example of meekness. Help us to receive your word with meekness and humbleness of mind, that you may lead and teach us to walk in integrity and uprightness of heart. 

May you reflect the Lord's glory and honor in your life today by being a testimony of His character. 
~Ellie

Thursday, September 29, 2016

The LORD is God, and HE has given us LIGHT...

" For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." 2 Corinthians 4:6

This morning I was truly blessed to think upon the marvelous work of God in my life. What mercy that God would look upon me and bring me to light...  

I marvel at the work of the Lord Jesus Christ and think often of my unworthiness. How thankful I am... that I should taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

As I went about my daily work this morning, I happened to hear this song playing... it was indeed a time to stop and thank the Lord for His unbounded love.

I HAVE COME FROM THE DARKNESS
(M.W. Chaplin)

I have come from the darkness to the light of the Lord,
I have come from the night to the day.
He has guided my footsteps in the truth of His word;
By His love He has shown me the way.

Chorus:
I have come from the darkness to the light,
To the light of redemption from sin.
Oh, my soul will rejoice in His might,
For my Savior dwells within.

In the light of His presence all temptations depart,
And the shadows of doubt are cast aside.
With the radiance of sunshine He has entered my heart,
Where His spirit of love abides.

Heavenly Father, thank you for being GOD and commanding light to shine in our hearts. We praise you for the Lord Jesus Christ who has brought us from death to life and has opened the door to your throne of grace. Our hearts are rejoicing that we would be made children of God and marvel at your holiness. Help us today to be a light that shines for you.

" For the LORD will not forsake His people for His great name's sake: 
because it hath pleased the LORD to make you His people." 
1 Samuel 12:22

May you be joyful today... offering praise to the Heavenly Father for the Lord Jesus who has brought light and life to us.

~Ellie

Monday, September 12, 2016

But THOU remainest... THOU art the same.

" The ETERNAL God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms..." Deuteronomy. 33:27

This past week I was thinking of the Lord... and was so very comforted in knowing that He never changes. When things around us may crumble, how comforting it is to know that our God remains the same!

We can experience the loss of a friend, the loss of earthly possessions, but oh, the wonderful comfort that our God remains the same! He never changes, He is always the same!

The character of God... ever faithful, ever true. From eternity to eternity He is God.

Do you ever find yourself simply lifted up or encouraged by just one small phrase found in the WORD of GOD? 

Such was the case when I read the verse in Hebrews 1:11

"They shall perish; but Thou remainest..." 

Such comfort and peace the simple phrase, Thou remainest, brought to me... 

Who can offer such hope, such peace, such comfort in a world that is full of turmoil and unrest?

What hope and assurance is there.... in the things that perish? 

Our hope is in the One that remains...the ETERNAL God,  the One who is our refuge, the One whose everlasting arms sustain us.

" Be Thou my strong habitation, 
whereunto I may continually resort: 
Thou hast given commandment to save me; 
for Thou art my rock and my fortress." 
Psalm 71:3

As I read more and more of God's Word, I find myself in awe with the treasure so marvelously laid out for us.  

And while we may go through life's trials and find ourselves in moments of discouragements, we've been given the WORD... which brings LIFE...  as well as HEALING to our bodies. 

Oh, if we would only be ever mindful of God's Holy Word and cherish it in our hearts...

" My son, attend to my words; 
incline thine ear unto my sayings.

Let them not depart from thine eyes;
 keep them in the midst of thine heart. 

 For they are life unto those that find them, 
and health to all their flesh." 
Proverbs 4:21,22

Father, thank you for being our eternal God and dwelling place from generation to generation. Our hearts rejoice, for in you we are secure. How thankful we are for the refuge found underneath your everlasting arms. Help us to praise you and trust your unfailing love for us in regards to the trials we may face today.

May you find comfort in God's Holy Word today.
~Ellie

Friday, August 12, 2016

Out of heaven He made thee to HEAR HIS VOICE...

" Know therefore this day, and consider it in thine heart, that the LORD  He is GOD in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath; there is none else." Deuteronomy 4:39

Much of our time here on earth is busy and occupied... there are many activities that tire us. We often find ourselves waking up with the burden of the day. So much needs to be accomplished.

And yet, our God knows our needs. He cares and provides what's best for us... He prunes, He purges.

As I reflect on the Lord's goodness this morning, I marvel at His care.

I confess that I don't always find every situation in my life rosy. .. no, not all the surroundings are easy to go through.

How often I lose sight of God's plan to grow me,
... working in me a faith that does not waver,
... working in me a life that is more and more like Christ's,
... working that I might be humble and obedient to His will.

Pruning hurts... but it yields fruit in the end.

How encouraging to know that the CREATOR of heaven and earth... is LORD over all. There is none besides Him. He does what is right and perfect...

When things around us may crumble... our refuge is in our God.

Despite what the future holds... our God is in control.

And while God may take us through trials and afflictions, He is ever near us...working that which is needful in our lives. .. patience, character and hope.

Indeed, our God is a merciful God...

" But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find Him, if thou seek Him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.

When thou art in tribulation and all these things shall come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the Lord thy God, and shalt be obedient to His voice; 

For the Lord thy God is a merciful God; He will not forsake thee..." 
Deuteronomy 4:29,30,31

Oh, what assurance- that when we walk with Him, and look unto Him... He hears us and helps us! 

Father, we thank you for making us hear your voice through the living Word. Thank you for the promises we have that comforts us in time of need. Help us to be firmly rooted and grounded in the WORD.

May you be encouraged today to trust the Father's care for you... and be still in knowing that HE IS GOD.
~Ellie

Thursday, July 28, 2016

REST in the LORD, and WAIT patiently for HIM...

" Say to them that are of a fearful heart, BE STRONG, FEAR NOT..." Isaiah 35:4

This past week I have been thinking much about my need to rest in the LORD. I came across verse 7 while reading  Psalm 37.... and instantly found myself thanking the Lord for His beautiful reminder to me. The Lord knew my need this week... He knew I needed to be reminded that He is in control of all things.... and that I should rest.

In the midst of life's trials and afflictions, our hope is to rest in the Lord. How often I find myself not resting in the Lord....

Are you often in the same predicament? Fearing, fretting, faithless, uneasy?

I'm sure we all have fears that cause us to live moments of unrest.  But, oh  how much better for us to trust our heavenly Father. 

"Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, 
that it cannot save; 
neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear."  
Isaiah 59:1

Our loving God knows and hears our need, our situation... Is He not capable to work all that concerns us for our good?

So often we are brought into paralyzing moments because of fear... but fear is not from God! 

Psalm 37 is a wonderful reminder of God's desire for us to put away fretting from our lives.We are to commit our ways to Him... and rest in Him.... and wait patiently for His deliverance. 

The best medication when we are fearful... is to rest.

" Finally, my brethren, 
be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might."
 Ephesians 6:10

Heavenly Father, thank you for being our refuge, in whom we find complete rest. Help us to be still and know that you are God in the midst of our trials. Make us to know the peace that keeps our minds and hearts in Christ Jesus by being anxious for nothing.

May you be encouraged to rest and wait patiently for the Lord to complete His work in your life.

~Ellie

Friday, July 15, 2016

Have no fellowship with the UNFRUITFUL WORKS of darkness...

" And walk in LOVE... and ALL uncleanness... let it NOT ONCE be named among you, as becometh saints.... but rather giving of THANKS. " Ephesians 5: 2,3,4

I thank the LORD for His mercy this morning... for reminding me of His desire that I walk as a child of LIGHT.

How easily I can get sidetracked and fall in the deceiving ways of the world. 

It is easy to compromise... 
It is easy to talk as the "world"...
It is easy to "fit in" so that we may look good in the eyes of man...
It is easy to think on the things below...
It is easy  to covet, to judge, to envy another...

All this is especially so...because we walk not in the LIGHT of the WORD. 

So as I was reading the 5th chapter of Ephesians, I was touched with the message of the Lord: 

We are to be followers of GOD...
We are to walk in LOVE...
We are to walk as children of LIGHT...
We are to walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise...
We are to redeem the time.

The LORD graciously reminds us that we are no longer in darkness... but have come to LIGHT. 
As a result, we are to put off(do away with) concerning the former conversation(conduct)....

" For ye were sometimes darkness, 
but now are ye light:
walk as children of LIGHT." 
Ephesians 5:8

Therefore, we are to have no fellowship...nor partake... with the unfruitful works of darkness. 

" For he that soweth to his flesh, shall of the flesh reap corruption, but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." Galatians 6:8

" For it is a shame
 even to speak  of those things 
which are done of them in secret." 
Ephesian 5: 12

Oh, how good it is to be in the WORD! 

"... and CHRIST shall give thee light." (Ephesians 5:14).

There we find wisdom.... proving what is acceptable unto the LORD.

Holy and righteous Father, may we walk in the light of your Word and reprove the works of the darkness. May your Spirit manifest in us all goodness, righteousness and truth so that glory and honor and praise be given to you.

May you be encouraged today to sow unto the Spirit... and have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness.
~Ellie

Thursday, July 7, 2016

Let my mouth be with THY PRAISE and THY HONOUR all the day long.

" I will PRAISE the name of GOD with a song, and will MAGNIFY HIM with THANKSGIVING.
This also shall please the LORD better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs." Psalms 69: 30,31

This past week I was again reminded of how much the LORD is pleased when we put away murmurings, discontentment and discouragement from our lives... 

Oh, that we would fill our lives with songs of praise unto our God and offer thanksgiving to the Lord for all His love towards us. 

You  know, discouragement, murmurings, discontentment flees from us when we sing.  And we all have reasons to be thankful.

" Bless the LORD, O my soul, 
and 
forget not all His benefits." 
Psalm 103:2

Thinking upon this hymn this morning... may it encourage your heart.

REVIVE US AGAIN
author:William P. Mackay

We praise Thee, O God!
For the Son of Thy love,
For Jesus Who died,
And is now gone above.

Refrain:
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.
Hallelujah! Amen.
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.

Revive us again.
We praise Thee, O God!
For Thy Spirit of light,
Who hath shown us our Savior,
And scattered our night.

All glory and praise
To the Lamb that was slain,
Who hath borne all our sins,
And hath cleansed every stain.

All glory and praise
To the God of all grace,
Who hast brought us, and sought us,
And guided our ways.

Precious Father, May our hearts rejoice today and bring before you our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving out of a pure heart.  

May you be encouraged to think upon the Lord's goodness to you and offer praise to the One who deserves all glory and honor.
~Ellie

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

And when the people complained, it displeased the LORD...

And the Lord said unto Moses, "Is the Lord's hand waxed short? Thou shalt see now whether my word shall come to pass unto thee or not. " Numbers 11:23

You know, sometimes I find myself so weak in faith. Sometimes I find myself complaining and murmuring... just as the Israelites did long ago.  Oh, I may not  want to admit it... I may not consider it as complaining or murmuring... because I may be blind to my own folly.  

How often we've thought back to the "good times" and fall prey to discontentment of a present situation...  and murmur against God's goodness.  That's just what the Israelites did.... and that's we we do today. 

" We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; 
the cucumbers, and the melons and the leeks, 
and the onions and the garlic." 
Numbers 11:5

We fail to see God's grace and mercy offered TODAY... and consider it as nothing.. even when He offers manna from above!

" But now our soul is dried away; 
there is nothing at all beside this manna, 
before our eyes." 
Numbers 11:6

And how often we may find ourselves in the shoes of Moses and say, " This burden is too heavy to carry, I cannot do it alone."  

Yes, Moses complained before the LORD... but so do we.

" I am not able to bear all this alone, 
because it is too heavy." 
Numbers 11:14

However, I was extremely encouraged when I read once again the account  of God showing His mercy and proving His promises to be true... even to a people that was full of murmuring and complaining. 

And the Lord said unto Moses, "Is the Lord's hand waxed short? 
Thou shalt see now 
whether my word shall come to pass 
unto thee
 or not. " 
Numbers 11:23

" For all the promises of God in Him are yea,
 and in Him Amen, 
unto the glory of God by us."
2 Corinthians 1:20

Oh Father, forgive our murmuring and complaining against you. Remind us how much it displeases you. Help us to see your goodness today and trust in your promises that are true and faithful.

May you find rest in the preciousness of God's love and care for you today.
~Ellie

Thursday, June 23, 2016

...and under HIS wings shalt thou trust.

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: 
Be not dismayed; for I am thy God: 
I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee;
Yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. 
Isaiah 41:10

Sometimes I am overwhelmed with God's precious promises. This morning I read the above verse and rested in God's love. 

How beautiful to be still in the presence of the ALMIGHTY GOD!

I couldn't but think how often we  fail to to remember the promises of our God and Saviour... that He will be with us even unto the end. 

And so today I cling to the beautiful reminder that God is with me... 
... as I find rest in His power and strength,
... as I trust Him to guide and protect me,
... and wait upon Him to lead me.

UNDER HIS WINGS
Ira Sankey

Under His wings I am safely abiding;
  Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,
Still I can trust Him, I know He will keep me;
  He has redeemed me, and I am His child.
 
Under His wings, under His wings,
  Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
    Safely abide forever.

Under His wings—what a refuge in sorrow!
  How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
  There I find comfort, and there I am blest.

Under His wings—oh, what precious enjoyment!
  There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er;
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me;
  Resting in Jesus I’m safe evermore.

Precious Father, Thank you for your promises that are true and faithful. Help us to rest in your presence and be comforted through your Spirit and Word. 

May you be encouraged today to rest in the Lord Jesus and trust in His care for you.
~Ellie

Thursday, June 16, 2016

... Having FORGIVEN you ALL trespasses.

" Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to HIS cross." Colossians 2:14

Do you ever find yourself unworthy of God's love? Do you ever see yourself a sinner?  

Sometimes our sin is so evident... that we can see our wickedness quite plainly... no one has to tell us we've wronged God in our actions. 

And yet, there are times when we may be unaware of our sin. It may be that we've compromised so much that we are immune to it.... we don't see our proud look, or we may not be aware of the words that come out of our mouths. Sometimes we may even fall prey to doing something that makes "life" easier for us by being dishonest in one form or another.

The truth is that we are all sinners. All of us have sinned. We all have to fight against the flesh. 

And yet, had it not been for God's precious love, we would all have remained dead in our sins. 

" And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, 
hath He quickened together with HIM, 
having forgiven you all trespasses." 
Col 2:13

So I found myself one afternoon reading through Colossians... what joy, what comfort to know I've been forgiven!  

The Lord Jesus Christ - Colossians 2: 13,14,15 
... forgave all my trespasses,
... blotted out the ordinances that was against me, 
... took all my sins out of the way,
... and nailed  them to His cross,
... while making a show of them openly,
... and triumphing over them in it.

Oh, how I should praise Him! I am humbled that Christ Jesus would die for me, have mercy and remember my sins no more. What a Saviour!

" For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, 
and their sins and their iniquities 
will I remember no more." 
Hebrews 8:12

Holy Father, Thank you for your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ who has broken down the middle wall of partition between us. How thankful we are that we have been forgiven of our trespasses and that the Lord Jesus has abolished in His flesh the enmity, bringing peace to us. 

May you be encouraged today to thank God for His goodness to you... in offering forgiveness of sins through the precious blood of Jesus Christ.
~Ellie

Thursday, June 9, 2016

... I will STAND on the TOP of the hill...

"... I will stand ON THE TOP of the hill with the ROD of GOD in mine hand." Exodus 17:9

Do you ever find yourself in moments of fear, struggles, discouragements, oppositions from all sides? Sometimes we find ourselves so deep in our thoughts that we forget that we have a SHEPHERD who by HIS ROD comforts us in all our trials.

I was so encouraged a couple of days ago when I read the verse in Exodus where Joshua was fighting Amalek... and there Moses raised the "rod of God" to prevail against the enemy. 

I thought about the ROD, representing our God, the great I AM... our stronghold.

Isn't it wonderful to be able to raise and trust in the WORD of GOD as our ROD? 

The great I AM can fight our enemies... and prevail against them.   

Yes, indeed our Shepherd, the LORD JESUS CHRIST, comforts, guides and drives away all our fears... because HE protects us from all evil.

And we also know that when Moses' hands were heavy... Aaron and Hur interceded by holding them up... and Moses' hands were steady. 

" But Moses' hands were heavy: 
and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; 
and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, 
the one on one side, and the other on the other side, 
and his hands were steady 
until the going down of the sun." 
Exodus 17:12

How wonderful to know that we too can ease the "heaviness"  and intercede for those around us who are heavy in spirit and fighting battles of their own.  

PSALM 121

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.
My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.
He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: 
He that keepeth thee will not slumber.
Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD is thy keeper: 
the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand.
The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: 
He shall preserve thy soul.
The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in 
from this time forth, and even for evermore. 


Heavenly Father, Thank you for being the great I AM in our lives, Thank you for preserving our souls from all evil. We trust in your power and faithfulness to accomplish your purpose and will in our lives for your glory. Help us to raise the rod of your Word continually as we face the many battles that come our way. 

May you be encouraged today to lift up God's name and His promises... for yourself and others. 
~Ellie

Thursday, June 2, 2016

Let us put on the armor of LIGHT...

" Owe no man anything, but to love one another..." Romans 13:8

These past several weeks have been weeks of growth for me. Weeks that have marked my life with a renewed adoration for my LORD and my GOD. I have been in awe to see the presence of my LORD in my life. 

It isn't that I haven't seen God's power in the past, far from it... but these several weeks have been so special to me... because God is answering my deepest prayer... that He would increase my faith.

I don't know about you, but I find myself like the disciples... in need of having the Lord increase my faith. Because I know how easily I can falter, how easily I can stumble, how easily I can lose my focus... all because I look unto the things of this world, the vain things that mean nothing in the scheme of eternal life. 

So these past several weeks I have seen the Lord work in my life in ways that have simply amazed me. 

He gave peace in the midst of sorrow...
He answered when all was "hopeless" according to man,
He made His power known to the amazement of all involved... accomplishing His perfect will.
He increased my faith in a God that keeps His promises.

Yes, His WORD is truth... "ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13

And through this all, I'm finding how important it is to live our lives filled with love from above. 
I have seen how important it is to be "dressed" with the armour of LIGHT... and owe no man anything... but LOVE. 

LOVE from above covers over a multitude of sins. 
LOVE from above melts the heart of stone. 
LOVE from above works no ill to his neighbor.
LOVE from above looks beyond self and cares for the needs of others.
LOVE from above is made perfect in us when we abide in CHRIST.
LOVE from above casts out fear.
LOVE from above is the fulfillment of the law.

God is LOVE. He that dwelleth in LOVE dwelleth in GOD and God in him. (1 John 4:16)

"...because AS HE IS so ARE WE  in this world." (1 John 4:17)

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the Lord Jesus Christ and that through Him we can live. Help us to be filled with love from above, that we might bring glory to you. We are so thankful for your Word, that it is truth. Help us to be grounded in your Word. Work in our hearts that we would desire to be more like the Lord Jesus Christ.

" But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, 
and make no provision for the flesh
to fulfill the lusts thereof." 
Romans 13:14

May you be encouraged to walk in humbleness of heart and to desire His Word above all else...
"Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matthew 6:33)

~Ellie

Thursday, May 12, 2016

For in HIM we LIVE, and MOVE, and have our being...

" Serving the LORD with all humility of mind..." Acts 20:19

These past few days I have been meditating on the need for us to draw near to God. I have been so overwhelmed with the life of Paul while reading the book of Acts. 

We know how apostle Paul was brought to light... in a most direct intervention of the Lord Jesus Christ. It was in no way that Saul (apostle Paul) was ever seeking to know the Lord Jesus... 

...why, Saul did all he could to persecute the believers and cause much turmoil. (Acts 8:3). 

And so I stand amazed at God's perfect plan to bring a sinner from darkness into light. 

As He worked with Saul, so He works with us.

This morning, while continuing my reading through the book of Acts, I was extremely blessed with a few verses.... verses that show apostle Paul's total devotion to His Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. 

His devotion was ever so strong... even when he knew he would have to suffer many things for the name of Jesus Christ... 

... and oh, what devotion and love for His Lord!

" And now, behold, I go bound in the Spirit 
unto Jerusalem,
 not knowing the things that shall befall me there." 
Acts 20:22

"Except that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, 
saying that bonds and afflictions await me." 
Acts 22:23

I am overwhelmed at Paul's total denying of self.  

His total devotion in serving His Master is written  in the following verse: 

" But none of these things move me, 
neither count I my life dear unto myself, 
so that I might finish my course with joy, 
and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, 
to testify the gospel of the grace of God."  
Acts: 20:24

I thank the Lord for the reminder this morning, that  just as He worked with apostle Paul... He works with me. Oh, that I would live for the praise of His glory...

So thankful to the Lord that I was found of Him.

I SOUGHT THE LORD
Author: Anonymous

I sought the Lord, and afterward I knew
He moved my soul to seek Him, seeking me.
It was not I that found, O Savior true;
No, I was found of thee.

 Thou didst reach forth Thy hand and mine enfold;
I walked and sank not on the storm-vexed sea.
'Twas not so much that I on Thee took hold,
As thou, dear Lord, on me.

I find, I walk, I love, but oh, the whole
Of love is but my answer, Lord, to Thee!
For thou wert long beforehand with my soul;
Always Thou lovedst me. 

Father, Thank you for bringing light in a world of darkness through your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you for making it possible that we might live through Him. 

May you purpose in your heart to live a life fully devoted to the One who redeemed us by His precious blood...

~Ellie