Author Archives: Marilyn

Through Remembering HIS Faithfulness – Introduction – Lesson 4 – May 16 – 23

The speed and intensity of the changes which are occurring in our world today are the subject of many books and discussions, aren’t they?  It is also true that some historians would argue that for centuries every generation has felt change was happening at a much greater rate than ever before. The perception of unprecedented change often causes people to feel stressed and overwhelmed.  It causes them to inwardly sense the need to hurry, to adapt, to keep up with the pace of life in some undefined way.  Would you say there are innovations, discoveries, new expectations or unexpected events that cause you to long for a time of stability and predictability?  Do any of those things ever make you wonder how you will be able to cope with the challenges of ever-changing circumstances and information coming your way?

It can be helpful to realize you are not alone in your quandary.  As the Israelites left their slavery in Egypt, all of life changed. Moses had to remind them on more than one occasion that God, who had come to their rescue, would always and consistently provide for all their needs.  David, in his most frightening moments as he fled from his enemies, wrote in the psalms that he knew God would never leave him or forsake him.  As Jeremiah, virtually alone in Jerusalem, lamented the horrific price the Israelites had paid because of their sin and rebellion against God, he found the only comfort that existed was in the unchangeable love and compassion of the Lord.  Paul and the other New Testament writers often focused on the reality that  “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever” – Hebrews 13: 8.

The writer of the well-loved hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness” expresses so well the delight he finds because of the Lord’s commitment to His children.  As he says, “There is no shadow of turning with Thee.  Thou changest not; Thy compassions they fail not.  As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.”  Then in verse 3 he reminds us that pardon for sin, a peace that endures  and His very own presence to cheer and to guide us, as well as strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow are all some of the blessings that we have been given through our Savior, Jesus.  What is to stop you from taking delight in HIM as you ponder His everlasting faithfulness?

AN EASTER BLESSING

*May the realities of the death of JESUS on the cross keep you aware of who you were –        😢Alone, Lost, Hopeless, and Condemned *May the truths of the resurrection of JESUS fill your mind and heart with gratitude –                              🤗Loved, Accepted, Justified, Forgiven, and Redeemed *May the joys of the ascension of JESUS…Continue Reading

RESPONDING to CHAOS    –   Intro for study

How do you remain focused when the rhythms of your life are unexpectedly disrupted? Where do you find peace when the unknowns loom large?  Where do you find comfort when everything seems topsy-turvy? There is no question that the uncertainties of today’s political and economic changes are causing most of us to experience some degree…Continue Reading

YOUR BEST LOVE LETTER

“How do I love thee?  Let me count the ways.  I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach . . .”  (Elizabeth Barrett Browning, 1850) Poetry books are filled with words of tenderness and love that are so beautifully expressed.  Hidden in boxes on closet shelves are precious letters…Continue Reading

WAITING FOR THE MESSIAH – Lesson 11

For generations the people of Israel had been waiting for their Messiah.  Centuries of wondering.  Centuries of hoping and trusting.  Would God keep His promises?  Would He really send The One who would rescue them and set up the throne of David and establish His Kingdom?  In every century and in every generation there were…Continue Reading