I am posting my blog later than usual. It has been a big day for me. I had an early morning appointment with a dermatologist who looked at my eyebrow mole and actually found a couple of other suspicious spots on my arms. So I left with some bandages from the biopsies that were taken.

With my doctor’s appointment and the need for some rest, I got out of town for a trip to Lakewood later than anticipated. After retracing my steps from Friday in visiting friends and family, I left Denver hoping to miss most of the rush hour traffic. The trip home went better than expected, but still later than what I anticipated in making my original plans.

I will hear back in about a week regarding the biopsy results. Until then, I will continue with some of my appointments and projects while Debbie helps me attend to some “wounds.”

BIBLE VERSE TODAY… “But when he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have more than enough bread, but I am dying here with hunger! I will get up and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight…” Luke 15:17,18

Getting knocked down in life is often through circumstances or the actions of others. It can also be due to our own poor choices. Such was the case with the “prodigal son.” But he was not content to settle for his “pig pen” existence and resolved to go back to his father. As he did, he found his father anticipating, not angry over his arrival. He found celebration, not consternation. He found dignity instead of a diminished status. He was able to “bounce back” from his failure.

Yesterday, I shared some “Expert Tips for Resilience” from the June 1, 2015 edition of Time magazine. Continuing the list, experts recommend….

6. Be quick to each out for support when things go haywire.

I applaud my wife for doing this when my health crisis hit. She realized what her priorities needed to be and was willing to receive help from family and friends so she could focus on my care and still have all the details of family life taken care of.

Ecclesiastes 4:9,10 says, “Two are better off than one, because together they can work more effectively. ¹⁰ If one of them falls down, the other can help him up. But if someone is alone and falls, it’s just too bad, because there is no one to help him.” We need friends. We need to be gracious receivers when life hits a road block. The Lord works through others to demonstrate His love and care for our lives and to help us bounce back.

We see this in the life of Paul, who said, “But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus…” (2 Corinthians 7:6)

7. Learn new things as often as  you can.

I like the concept and commitment of being a “lifelong learner.” Remember, “it is what you learn after you know it all can change your life.” Solomon wrote “Choose my instruction instead of silver; choose knowledge rather than the finest gold.” (Proverbs 8:10)  He also observed, “Intelligent people are always eager and ready to learn.”  (Proverbs 18:15)

8. Find an exercise regimen you’ll stick to.

The “stick to” part of this advice can be the most challenging. Meaningful and consistent physical activity  has tremendous benefits for our mental and emotional health. Scripture tells us “our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit…” (1 Corinthians 6:19) It reminds us of the benefit of “bodily exercise…” (1 Timothy 4:8) We also see the warnings about laziness in such verses as, “A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest,” Then your poverty will come as a robber….” (Proverbs 24:33,34)

9. Don’t beat yourself up or dwell on the past.

What encouraging words we find in Paul’s life when he says, “…one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead…” (Philippians 3:13) I like the admonition of Isaiah 43:18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!”  Don’t let regret or worry stymie your life. Live each day as a gift from the Lord.

10. Recognize what makes you uniquely strong – and own it.

Our relationship with Christ enables us to know that we are unique, gifted and valued in God’s eyes. “In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well.” (Romans 12:5) 1 Corinthians 12:7 says, “The Spirit’s presence is shown in some way in each person for the good of all.”

An individual’s gifts, abilities and motivations are unique. Each person has something to offer in service to the Lord and in service to others. It is important to recognize and affirm your uniqueness. Remember Paul’s’ words,  “All of you are Christ’s body, and each one is a part of it.” (1 Corinthians 12:27)

Allow your ability to “bounce back” to be strengthened through your faith in the Lord. I trust there are some other verses from the Bible that have come to your mind as you have considered these “Experts Tips for Resilience.”  I am thankful that the Lord, who has made us, not only knows what we need to be over-comers, but He also through His Word shows us the way.

A pretty busy day for me. I began with a morning breakfast where Steve House, the Chair of the State Republican Party spoke. Steve did a great job sharing his efforts over the last eleven weeks in office and plans for the future.

This week I begin my three Chiropractic appointments per week. Today included some exercises that I will do before each treatment. After returning home Steve Grimes came by to look at modifying our handicap ramp. It is great to feel like I am at the point where I don’t need a full ramp for mobility purposes. He also helped rehang some doors that had to be removed so I could navigate some rooms. I told him those type of projects are simple, but significant markers in my road to recovery.

I had an appointment with my primary care doctor. I have a mole that has been growing above my right eyebrow the past several weeks. She took one look and told me it was a “basil cell carcinoma.”  These forms of skin cancer are not usually serious, but the location she said was close to a nerve that effects the eyelid, so she did not want to touch it. While she expressed some regret over not being able to “cut on me” she was more comfortable with a referral to a dermatologist.

After a late afternoon, HOA board commitment, I have a meeting this evening. I might arrive late and leave early at this point.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…  “We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt, but never in despair; there are many enemies, but we are never without a friend; and though badly hurt at times, we are not destroyed.”      2 Corinthians 4:8.9

The recent edition of “Time” magazine (June 1, 2015), contains an article on resilience, simply entitled, “Bounce Back.” Resilience is a hallmark of the Christian life. We are to be those who overcome the circumstances of life and not be overwhelmed by the circumstances of life.

I recall in my youth a vinyl blow up boxing toy. It was weighted on the bottom and when you hit it, it would immediately bounce back and take some more, and bounce back again. That is they type of tenacity the Lord desires to build into each of our lives.

The “Time” magazine article contains a list of “Expert Tips for Resilience.” The experts can tell you what you need, they just fall short in telling you how to acquire what you need. For that we can turn to God’s Word. Here we go…

1. Develop a core set of beliefs that nothing can shake.

Paul said, “…Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.“ (1 Corinthians 15:58)  Paul said with confidence, “…I know the one in whom I trust, and I am sure that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until the day of his return.”                         (2 Timothy 1:12) A solid faith in Jesus Christ is foundation on which you can build your life. I didn’t grow up on a church where the “Apostle’s Creed” was part of our worship. But those core foundational truths are important to rehearse.

2. Try to find meaning in whatever stressful or traumatic thing has happened.

“We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28) What a perfect application for this well known verse.  I am also reminded of Joseph’s perspective of his enslavement and alienation from his family, “…you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good…” (Genesis 50:20)

3. Try to maintain a positive outlook.

“…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6) I am also reminded of the promise of Philippians 4:19,20 “…all his abundant wealth through Christ Jesus, my God will supply all your needs.  To our God and Father be the glory forever and ever! Amen.” The Lord does provide “strength for today, bright hope for tomorrow” as we trust in Him.

4. Take cues from someone who is especially resilient.

When I think of those we can look to, I think of Paul and I think of Jesus. Perhaps there are others in the Bible or your circle of friends that come to your mind. Paul told the Philippians, “Put into practice what you learned and received from me, both from my words and from my actions. And the God who gives us peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:9) “…for Christ himself suffered for you and left you an example, so that you would follow in his steps.” (1 Peter 2:21)

5. Don’t run from things that scare you: face them!

What a great time to remind ourselves, “But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory…because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.“ (1 John 4:4)
“So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6) One of the most often repeated words of encouragement in scripture is, “fear not.” I like Isaiah 41:10 – “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.“ The promises to be with us, He cares for us, He will go before us, He will strengthen us, so that whatever is of concern and creates anxiety in our life we can trust Him to help, guide and direct us.

There are five more in the list and we will look at those tomorrow. Just these five can bring a sense of faith and confidence in the Lord as we are “knocked” down by life. Through the strength of the Lord we can bounce back strong and victorious.

Last night a made a trip to Denver to check on my mother, who had been taken to the hospital. We spent several hours in the emergency room before she was released to come home. Everything checkout pretty good, but her blood pressure was consistently running high. I spent the night with her and the we went out for breakfast and attended church this morning. I tried to help on a few thing around the house before retuning to Fort Collins this afternoon. Overall, it was a good visit. I told her I would return in a couple of days to check on her.

Tomorrow I have a couple of medical appointments. I begin my 90 treatment plan with my Chiropractor. I also have an appointment with my primary care physician.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “…God is able to give you more than you need, so that you will always have all you need or yourselves and more than enough for every good cause.” 2 Corinthians 9:8

As I was attending church with my mothers this morning, the guest missionary’s wife made reference to God being “more than enough” in His provisions for His people. We serve a God of endless resources, who delights in providing for us all that we need…and more!

Consider the resources you have at your disposal or those that have been provided to you. Sometimes, it is adequate, just enough, sometimes not quite enough; and yes sometimes “more than enough.”

As we place our trust and faith in the Lord for every circumstance and need, we will find Him to be the Lord who supplies, “more than enough.” More than enough forgiveness, favor, comfort, finances, peace, blessings and more.

Jesus words, in explaining the master’s response to the faithful “ten-talent” steward said, “For to every person who has something, even more will be given, and he will have more than enough…” (Matthew 25:29) In this parable the person who “had something” was the steward who had been faithful and multiplied what the master had given him.

As the Lord sent Joesph ahead of his family to Egypt to spare them in a time of famine, the Pharaoh told Joesph, “I will give them the best land in Egypt, and they will have more than enough to live on.” (Genesis 45:18) We see how the Lord sometimes, (actually more often than not) provides for us through others. Even those who don’t acknowledge Him as Lord.

Debbie and I have experienced that in our lives as people, friends and acquaintances from various contexts and some who just heard our need, have demonstrated overwhelming support to us during my health crisis. What a blessing to receive so much, from so many, in so many ways.

The Apostle Paul received support from the church in Philippi and this is what he said, “Here, then, is my receipt for everything you have given me—and it has been more than enough!”  (Philippians 4:18)

When we consider the great expression of confidence from Paul when he wrote,  “…my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) We realize that he is talking about the “more than enough” God.

We can look into scripture and see words like,“abundance” – “lavish” – “over flow” and others that describe the extent to which the Lord provides for and meets the needs of His people. So today, whatever your need, whatever your situation; entrust your life and place your confidence in the Lord who is “more than enough.”

This morning we took the grand kids to Northern Colorado Rehab Hospital for a stroke awareness event. It was their first time to the hospital when grandpa wasn’t a patient. It was good to see many of the staff members from my time as an resident patient and outpatient. One of those was Danielle, the nutritionist, who watch over my care during my time in acute care as well as in the rehab side of the hospital.

After that event and some rest (at least for me) and lunch, we headed to our neighborhood swimming pool for the first time this season.

I did receive a call from my sister about a health crisis with my mother. So, it looks like I will head to Denver, while Debbie takes care of the grand kids and waits for Christian and Bridget to arrive.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Then they will know that I am the Lord.”  Ezekiel 36:38

As Ezekiel speaks God’s word of judgment and redemption, the prophetic emphasis that is most often found is, “then they will know that I am the Lord.” As a matter of fact it is found fifty times in the book.

We see it in prophetic words of judgment, such as:

“They will know then that I am the Lord, I did not threaten in vain to bring this calamity on them.”  Ezekiel 6:10

“Then they will know that I am the Lord, when I have made the land a desolate waste because of all the detestable things they have done.” Ezekiel 33:39

We see it in prophetic words of restoration, such as:

“They will know that I am the Lord, for though I sent them into exile among the nations, I will gather them to their own land, not leaving any behind.”  Ezekiel 39:28

“….I will show all the nations that I am great and that I am holy. They will know then that I am the Lord.”              Ezekiel 38:23

Throughout the time of the history of God’s people; the Lord consistently and miraculously revealed Himself to His people. He did it in the lives of the patriarch’s; He did so in the judgments against the gods of Egypt during the exodus; He did it in the victories over enemies and the provisions in the wilderness to bring them to the promised land.

Yet for all that, the allurement of other “gods” and rebellion against the Lord became the plague of generations until the Lord allowed nations more wicked than they were to take Israel and Judah into captivity. God used this time of captivity to get their attention and then restore them to their land.

He once again revealed His power and sovereign rule over nations, to accomplish His purposes for His people. It was all so that they would realize that, “He was the Lord” and that they would serve Him from pure hearts of devotion. The words of Elijah ring throughout time, “If the LORD is God, follow him..” (1 Kings 18:21)

God’s people fell into the mindset of many today. That is one in which they viewed the Lord from a perspective of idolatry, with the attitude, “what have you done for me today?!” The attitude is one that views people as the highest order and those to be served. But throughout time the Lord God shows Himself as the sovereign Lord over all nations and people. His ways are beyond comprehending, and He is to be worshiped, followed and obeyed.

Embracing “God as the Lord” of your life brings comfort in times of trouble and confidence for living life in times of uncertainty. He doesn’t change, nothing takes Him by surprise and He knows you and your future.

After attending the monthly breakfast for Timberline seniors, I made a trip to Denver. It was good to have lunch with my friends Larry and Jay Belvill and Ron Watt and visit my dear friend Vila Mae. Jay’s sister Linda had also come from the western slope to visit mom.

I then picked up our three grand kids in Lakewood to come to Fort Collins for an overnight stay while their parents attended a staff retreat. We stopped by my mother’s house and she enjoyed seeing the great-grand kids. Our return trip started out later than we expected, but made it back to Fort Collins in reasonable time with sleeping kids and a tired grandpa.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “If an evil person stops doing evil, he won’t be punished, and if a good man starts sinning, his life will not be spared.…your people say that what I do isn’t right! No, it’s their way that isn’t right….I am going to judge you by what you do.” Ezekiel 33:12,17,20

Twice in the Book of Ezekiel we find the Lord calling Ezekiel as a “lookout” (watchman) to warn people of coming judgment. He uses the analogy of a sentry  who stands guard on the city walls and look for invading forces and then sounds the alarm so people can take action and save themselves. In like fashion, Ezekiel was called to be a spiritual sentry to warn people of the Lord’s coming judgment.

In the context of the warning and individual responsibility for action, the Lord says, those who turn from evil will be saved and those who turn from good to evil will be lost. The past bad will not be counted against them, and the good will not be “credited” to their “account” if they turn to a life of evil.

What we see at the basis of these responses is, “…I, the Sovereign Lord, am the living God, I do not enjoy seeing sinners die. I would rather see them stop sinning and live. Israel, stop the evil you are doing. Why do you want to die?”  Ezekiel 33:11

The issue is, “where will you be when the time of judgment comes?” Jesus put forth this question, “…when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?” (Luke 18:8) This becomes the critical question because on “this side of the cross” scripture declares, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith–and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God…” (Ephesians 2:8)

Two parables of Jesus give some perspective to God’s heart and His “unfair” justice.  One is the “Parable of the Two Sons.”

There was once a man who had two sons. He went to the older one and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ ‘I don’t want to,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went.  Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. ‘Yes, sir,’ he answered, but he did not go.  Which one of the two did what his father wanted?” (Matthew 21:28-31) We see that it is our actions, not our words that reveal our heart.

The other parable is the Parable of the “Workers in the Vineyard.”

Once there was a man who went out early in the morning to hire some men to work in his vineyard. He agreed to pay them the regular wage, a silver coin a day, and sent them to work in his vineyard.  He went out again to the marketplace at nine o’clock…Then at twelve o’clock and again at three o’clock he did the same thing…. “When evening came, the owner told his foreman, ‘Call the workers and pay them their wages, starting with those who were hired last and ending with those who were hired first.’  (Matthew 20:1-10)

Each were given the promised silver coin. Those who had worked the entire day complained about those who had only worked a few hours receiving the same wage. The owner of the vineyard asked, “…are you jealous because I am generous?’”

The Lord who is “rich in mercy” freely bestows His grace and mercy on those who respond to Him. We don’t always understand the ways of the Lord, but we can always to thankful for the ways of the Lord. That applies to our own lives and those to whom the Lord calls us to serve as a “watchman” sounding a warning and encouraging them to find life.

We had another good day today. I was able to get out and plant my garden. I was actually surprise how hard some of the soil was in some spots. This is the first garden I have planted in about 20 years. We will see how it goes.

I did attend a lunch with some minister friends. It was the last monthly meeting of this kind until next fall. It is always good to connect with friends that I don’t have a chance to see too often.

My day ended with another trip to the Chiropractor and getting a review of a treatment plan for the next 90 days. I believe this something can really help.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “But even now,” says the Lord, “repent sincerely and return to me with fasting and weeping and mourning. Let your broken heart show your sorrow……Come back to the Lord your God. He is kind and full of mercy; he is patient and keeps his promise; he is always ready to forgive and not punish.”                  Joel 2:12,13

I have come to be more aware of the Lord’s long suffering, mercy, grace and forgiveness than anytime in my life. Being “near death” and spending a few months on your back in a hospital looking up to the ceiling provides an opportunity to reassess and evaluate life. What you believe about yourself, what you believe about the Lord.

However, God’s holiness and righteousness does call for action and judgment. Judgment delayed, doesn’t mean judgment avoided if we don’t turn to the Lord. The  Bible is clear about a judgment day. We see “that day” is referred to in the Old Testament as the “Day of the Lord.” Here is how Joel describes it, “The day of the Lord is coming soon.
It will be a dark and gloomy day, a black and cloudy day.…like darkness spreading over the mountains. There has never been anything like it, and there never will be again.“ (Joel 2:2) The “Day of the Lord” is described as “great and terrible.” (Joel 2:31) It is a day when all creation is thrown into chaos, bringing fear on all who live.

The Bible records these words as warnings, to help us understand the ways of the Lord and to see these predictions of coming judgment as “warning signs” on the road of life. Have you ever ignored a sign the read, “Dead End” or “No Outlet.” I have! I have always found the signs are correct and I waste time and effort and come to the verge of risking my life by ignoring them. Those warnings signs are there to get our attention and for us to change our course.

That is why in the midst of prophecies about coming judgment and the “wrath of God” – There are pleas to repent (change direction) and return to the Lord and experience His forgiveness and life. Joel says, “…He is always ready to forgive.” That is amazing love and grace. But to experience it, the warning signs must not be ignored.

Consider these verses with the signs of the end and the opportunity to turn to the Lord….

“I will give warnings of that day in the sky and on the earth; there will be bloodshed, fire, and clouds of smoke.
 The sun will be darkened, and the moon will turn red as blood before the great and terrible day of the Lord comes.
But all who ask the Lord for help will be saved.”  (Joel 2:30-32)

It is never too late, but a response is necessary before it is too late. That is why Scripture says, “…today is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2) Keep your heart always open to the Lord and discover the gracious God who, yes, one day will bring judgment, but “is always ready to forgive and not punish.”   

We had good weather today. With warm temperatures tomorrow, I may be able to get some of my garden planted. I had another appointment with my chiropractor today and I believe getting my skeletal system in alignment will facilitate some of the nerve regeneration that needs to take place.

I did get out for a late afternoon ride on my bike. Before that I took the dog for a walk and took some pictures or our neighborhood lake. All the recent rain has it at capacity, but it makes for a nice setting. You can see many of the “willows” of  the Willow Springs community.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Be joyful always, pray at all times,  be thankful in all circumstances. This is what God wants from you in your life in union with Christ Jesus.”  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

When I read this verse from the Apostle Paul, I think of Micah 6:8 “….Lord has told us what is good. What he requires of us is this: to do what is just, to show constant love, and to live in humble fellowship with our God.”

When it comes to what the Lord desires for us and from us, the list is fairly small. Even the commandments are summarized in two basic admonitions. “Love the Lord you God with heart, soul, mind and strength….love your neighbor as yourself.” John the Apostle said, “Loving God means keeping his commandments, and his commandments are not burdensome.“ (1 John 5:3)

During Jesus ministry, He was challenging the Pharisees about their hundreds of rules and regulations that were the source of pride and judgment, while calling people into relationship with Himself and the Father. A relationship based on forgiveness, love, and faith. Jesus’ desire is for us to know Him as the one whose, “burden is light.” His greater desire is for us to experience what He has for us, more than what He wants from us.

When we look at our verse for today, we see three basic concepts of joy, communication with the Lord (prayer) and thankfulness.” I am attracted to these verses because they are to serve as the guide for all of our life, in all circumstances of our life.

We relate “joy” and “thankfulness” to our life when life is well. We view “prayer” as being more fervent and consistent when life is filled challenges. However, these aspects of our life are to be a part of our life in all circumstances. Paul communicates that when he says we are to “thankful in all circumstances.” But it comes across as well when we are to joyful “always” when we are to pray “at all times.”

How can this be? Remember, “joy” is not a sense of happiness or being “giddy” about life. It is not a manic condition; it is a deep settled peace that comes from our faith and confidence in the Lord. “Prayer” is important in all situations and circumstances. When we are glad as well as when we are sad. Since prayer is our communication with the Lord, it is important that we cultivate our relationship with the Lord on a daily basis, not just out of our own sense of need. Remember the words of the old hymn, “I Need Thee Every Hour”?

Finally, we can be “thankful in all circumstances.” We don’t have to be thankful for all circumstances, but we can have confidence that regardless of where the path of life leads the Lord is with us. And that alone gives us something to give thanks for.

When I share my story, about my illness and hospitalization and on-going recovery, people comment about my positive outlook and attitude. I realize that is not something that is possible in myself. People have prayed for me and I have faith and confidence in the Lord for His plan for my life. But it is important to note Paul says, God’s desire for our life is an out growth of our, “union with Christ.” Outside of Christ you won’t and can’t be joyful and thankful and persistent in prayer. I’m thankful that the Lord enables us to live the life He wants for us, as we simply place our faith and confidence in Him.

We had a nice morning with some sunshine and warmer temps. I attended the Tuesday morning prayer meeting at Everyday Joes and then came home to connect with Alan Kee who is going to be doing some work for us in our basement.

I have actually fought a level of fatigue. So, I continue to learn how to manage and judge what I can do and when. I was after a rest able to get out and ride my recumbent bike for the first time in a couple of weeks. I than had a chiropractor appointment, as I continue my health and physical recovery treatment.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “…we always speak as God wants us to, because he has judged us worthy to be entrusted with the Good News. We do not try to please people, but to please God, who tests our motives.”                    1 Thessalonians 2:4

I often find myself reading in the the Old Testament and New Testament at the same time. It is important that we guard against being New Testament believers with an “Old Testament” mindset or view of God. In the Old Testament the idolatry of God’s people confused them about God’s character and God’s ways. Idols are deities that are to be appeased to gain their favor and avoid their wrath. But the Lord is one we are to seek to please because “…the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” (Psalm 100:5)
There is much in scripture about “pleasing God” and it makes for a good on-going study. But for this brief discussion I note in Paul’s words that…

Pleasing God is a choice. As the Lord’s apostle Paul realized he had an obligation to the Lord. His commitment and loyalty to the Lord provided the motivation for his life and ministry. So he makes it clear that his desire is to please God over people. That can often place us in challenging situations when we are confronted with that choice. It is important for us to choose to please God, over pleasing ourselves. Paul told the Romans, “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.” (Romans 15:1) Spiritual maturity is reflected in the ability to lay aside the impulse to “please ourselves.”

Pleasing God requires faith. “…without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6) We come to God in faith, we live by faith, we pray in faith. Our faith not only gives us confidence that God exists, but that He is a “rewarder” of those who seek Him.

Pleasing God requires us to be open.  “Learn as you go along what pleases the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:10) In a relationship, you learn how to please someone. That is how we should view our relationship with the Lord. Our desire out of love for the Lord should be to please the Lord. That means learning, listening, obeying.

Pleasing God is the path to peace.  “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” (Proverbs 16:7)

Pleasing speaks of relationship and security. Appeasement speaks of fear and insecurity. The Lord knows our hearts and is able to guide us into paths of righteousness and relationship so that we can faithfully serve and please the Lord.