This morning we had a few inches of snow on the ground from our weekend storm. It was a wet, spring snow and not as much in  Fort Collins as in Denver. Now later in the day, the sun is out and most of the snow is gone. This morning I conducted two chapel services as Morning Star Assisted Living. Since Debbie and I attended a banquet for the Colorado Christian Home, Tennyson Center last night we went to the late service at Timberline. By the time we got home, went out to eat and returned it was time for an afternoon nap.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “There are shouts of joy and victory in the tents of the righteous: “The Lord’s right hand performs valiantly!  The Lord’s right hand is raised. The Lord’s right hand performs valiantly!”  I will not die, but I will live and proclaim what the Lord has done. The Lord disciplined me severely but did not give me over to death.”  Psalm 118:15-18 HCSB

Psalm 118 contains some familiar verses; ones we even see referenced in the New Testament. For example, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone... This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.…Lord, save us! Lord, please grant us success! He who comes in the name of the Lord is blessed.” (Psalm 118:22,24-26 HCSB)

There is no better place of rest and comfort than to be assured of God’s presence and intervention in your life. When you have confidence that the Lord is the God of what is ahead it is a cause for rejoicing. Often we when things are well we say, “right now I am in a good place.” Those words remind me of the psalmists declaration, “I called to the Lord in distress; the Lord answered me and put me in a spacious place.” (Psalm 118:5 HCSB)

All of this is pictured in the victory celebration when the Lord would allow the armies of Israel to gain victory over their enemies. Just as there is cheering and chants after a big sports win today, so was the case when the armies of God were victorious. For God’s righteous the victory chant was, ““The Lord’s right hand performs valiantly!  The Lord’s right hand is raised. The Lord’s right hand performs valiantly!” (Psa. 118:15)

The “right hand” speaks of strength and power. There is none as powerful and mighty as the Lord. When He acts, when His “right hand” is raised, victory is assured.

That victory gives assurance of life over death. “I will not die, but I will live and proclaim what the Lord has done.” (Psa. 118:17) Every battle, every confrontation, every setback, carries its own degree of uncertainties. One of the certainties of life, is there are no certainties. But when the Lord is on our side there is confidence in the midst of the uncertainties of life. When we stand on the other side of the battle, we can “proclaim what the Lord has done!”

Finally, when hardships come as discipline from the Lord, we can know we are still in good hands. David had his times of “discipline from the Lord.” In each situation, he saw the Lord working for His good. So, even in a time of discipline we can be confident in a God who is “for us.” In the end there is not just a “wiping of the brow” and a sense of narrow escape. There is a shout of victory knowing, “…The Lord’s right hand performs valiantly!”

We have had some interesting weather today. So far not the heavy snow that has been predicted. Mostly wind, rain and snow flurries. This morning I joined with my Larimer Energy Action team in taping a video for a cable TV project we are working on. I am eager to see how it turns out and the response we get from potential funders.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… Again the watchman reported, “He reached them but hasn’t started back. Also, the driving is like that of Jehu son of Nimshi—he drives like a madman.” 2 Kings 9:20 HCSB

When he left there, he found Jehonadab son of Rechab coming to meet him. He greeted him and then asked, “Is your heart one with mine?” “It is,” Jehonadab replied. Jehu said, “If it is, give me your hand.” So he gave him his hand, and Jehu pulled him up into the chariot with him. Then he said, “Come with me and see my zeal for the Lord!” So he let him ride with him in his chariot. 2 Kings 10:15-16 HCSB

I recall years ago our church in Strasburg hosted a group of young people who were running across the country, with a torch representing the gospel and the light of Christ. I joined them as they ran through the main street of our town to the next. During the next week a community member asked about the event. She said, I told someone, “that guy runs like Ken Summers.”

I’m not sure what stood out in the way I ran, but Jehu’s chariot driving was aggressive and fast made him stand out. Jehu was a military leader in Israel. Elisha sent one of the sons of the prophets to find Jehu and anoint him King over Israel. When the other leaders found out what the prophet had told Jehu, they immediately proclaimed him as King.

Jehu, knowing his mission, quickly went into action and began to execute judgment on the house of Ahab that had infiltrated both Israel and Judah. This all happened to fulfill the Word of the Lord through His prophets. In the process of this “house cleaning” Jehu kills, King Joran of Israel and King Azariah of Judah all members of the family of Ahab and Jezebel. He then goes to Samaria and has Jezebel killed by having her eunuch’s throw her down from the window of the tower on the wall. (Read the story in 2 Kings 9,10)

He then has all the sons of King Ahab killed and displays their heads as a sign to the people about God’s judgment on the wicked ruler’s household. Continuing his “house cleaning” Jehu then has all the prophets and worshipers of Baal killed.

Unfortunately, Jehu’s zeal reached a limit. Nonetheless he was still honored by the Lord for his actions. “Jehu eliminated Baal worship from Israel, but he did not turn away from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had caused Israel to commit—worshiping the gold calves that were in Bethel and Dan.  Nevertheless, the Lord said to Jehu, “Because you have done well in carrying out what is right in My sight and have done to the house of Ahab all that was in My heart, four generations of your sons will sit on the throne of Israel.” (2 Kings 10:28-30 HCSB)

Reflecting on all these events, it is interesting that Jehu did not seek a role, but was divinely called to fill a role. When he received that anointing, he did not hesitate to take action. We can observe that what he did, he did with zeal and did not stop until all of Ahab’s house had been eliminated. He took action against the worshipers of Baal, which was the god promoted by King Ahab and Queen Jezebel.

Jehu invited others to join him in his cause. When initially confronted by messengers, his response was,  “What do you have to do with peace? Fall in behind me.” (2 Kings 9:18,19) We then see Jehu gives Jehonadab a “ringside seat” in observing his zeal for the Lord.

Paul would later write to the Romans, “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.“
(Romans 12:11 HCSB) Paul writes to the Galatians, “It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always, not just when I am with you.”  (Galatians 4:18 NIV)

Jehu was an example of zeal in service for the Lord. That can serve as a model for us today. Regardless of our assignment, we are called by  God and need to view it as a “high and holy” calling. The role is different, but the value is the same. It is not be view with reluctance, resistance or reservation. Solomon said, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10 NIV) Paul wrote, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…” (Galatians 3:23 NIV)

Allow your zeal to motivate, not discourage others and call others to join you in following the ways of the Lord and doing His work. In your obedience to God’s call and zeal for His work, “proceed with caution” the Lord may take you on a “wild ride.”

Last night I went to my meeting late and left early. I came home to finish my mother’s tax return. I was thankful for a lighter day today, but still felt like I didn’t get everything done I wanted to. I enjoyed a nice lunch with Eric Creed, the Senior Land Man for Great West Oil and Gas. What an interesting background as published author, attorney and publication editor. I found that out when I asked him to write an op-ed on some industry issues.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… one of them [the sons of the prophets] was cutting down a tree, the iron ax head fell into the water, and he cried out, “Oh, my master, it was borrowed!”…. When the servant of the man of God got up early and went out, he discovered an army with horses and chariots surrounding the city. So he asked Elisha, “Oh, my master, what are we to do?” (2 Kings 6:4,15 HCSB)

I recall my brother talking about the “varied life of a Marine.” In his experience as an Officer, he could be enjoying a fine meal at a banquet on Friday night and then on Saturday be with the troops on training maneuvers, out in the elements, chipping away at a can of rations.

We find described in just a few verses of 2 Kings 6, the “varied life a prophet of the Lord.” In the first situation, the “sons of the prophets” were clearing land to build more houses. In the process the ax head of a borrowed tool flies off into the waters of the Jordan. Panic grips that man who had just lost his friends ax. He cries out to the prophet Elisha for help. Elisha cuts a stick, throws it into the water and the iron ax head floats. The man retrieves the ax head and the “day is saved.”

In the next situation, we see Elisha serving as a “divine spy” for the King of Israel. The Lord would reveal the plans of the enemy to Elisha and he would tell the King of Israel. When the King of Aram asked who the traitor was in his midst,  One of his servants said, “No one, my lord the king. Elisha, the prophet in Israel, tells the king of Israel even the words you speak in your bedroom.” (2 Kings 6:12 HCSB)

The King of Aram sends his armies to capture Elisha. I like this scene as Elisha’s servant walks to the balcony first thing in the morning and what does he see? The hills covered with hundreds of enemy soldiers! Not a good way to start your day!

Elisha is not panicked or concerned. Elisha said, “Don’t be afraid, for those who are with us outnumber those who are with them.” (2 Kings 6:16 HCSB) I’m not sure if that brought comfort to the servant. I can see the servant begin counting as he looks at the armies surrounding the city.

But then, Elisha prayed, “Lord, please open his eyes and let him see.” So the Lord opened the servant’s eyes. He looked and saw that the mountain was covered with horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. (2 Kings 6:17 HCSB)

As the enemy armies advances against the city, Elisha prayed again and the Lord struck them with blindness. The enemy troops were led into the city to the amazement of the King. Elisha told the King to feed the enemy troops and let them go. The “day is saved” and Israel was not attacked again by the King of Aram.

What is more of a crisis? A lost ax head that is borrowed or a city surrounded by enemy armies? It depends who you are? At the time, they were both a cause for panic. What we see is God is concerned for both and God used Elisha to accomplish a great miracle in both situations.

The simple lesson for today is: “there is nothing too difficult for God and there is nothing to small or too great for God.” Don’t believe your issue small or large is outside of God’s concern and power to intervene.

“The LORD is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth.”  (Psalm 145:18 NLT)

I had another busy day today. This morning, I had a radio interview (via phone) about the upcoming National Day of Prayer, followed by my weekly conference call with my energy partners team. After my chiropractor appointment, I attended the Prime-Time lunch at church and then headed to Loveland for a National Day of Prayer planning committee meeting. I have a meeting tonight….if I decide to go.

The weather forecast for this weekend is for a heavy spring snow. I’m glad we have all of our drainage issues resolved around the house. Our basement should be protected from water leaks. Bill Nation completed the work in front of our house. Bill was my respiratory therapist at Northern Colorado Rehab Hospital during my two month stay. His favorite Bible verse is Psalm 18:2. He carries it with him on a 3×5 card, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my mountain where I seek refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation,my stronghold.”

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “…Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:11 HCSB

In the last few days I read the Book of Jonah (in the Old Testament) and the Book of Philemon (in the New Testament). As I reflected on some of my recent encounters with scripture, I began to think about “run-aways” that returned. Each is different, each became a “run-away” in their own way.

Jonah, the prophet was called by God to do God’s work and to speak God’s word. But when the Lord’s instruction ran contrary to his view of Israel’s enemies, and his own desires, he ran way from the call of God.

One of the most troubling statistic is the number of ministers and pastors who leave “the ministry.” The reasons are as different and as unique as the individuals but some similarities have been noted. One article noted that the list of common reasons include, discouragement, failure, loneliness and burnout. (http://www.churchleaders.com/pastors/pastor-articles/161343-tim_peters_10_common_reasons_pastors_quit_too_soon.html)

Many churches and denominations are paying attention to these issues and endeavoring to provide sabbaticals, and mentors to support pastors and keep them functioning in a productive manner. Many after a break, return to ministry or a ministry role of some kind. I’m thankful that, just like Jonah, God calls and calls again.

Onesimus was the run-away slave. His owner Philemon was a friend of the apostle Paul. We see Philemon associated with the church in the city of  Colosse, to which Paul wrote a letter. We don’t know the reasons and for how long Onesimus was a fugitive slave. All we know is that he by intention or default he came into the life of Paul. As a result, Onesimus becomes a follower of Christ. Even though Paul saw some usefulness in Onesimus to his own ministry, he knew that the slave had to be returned to his master. Philemon was restored to a run-away slave, but he didn’t come home the way he left.

I think of my friend Doyle Robinson who serves run-a-way youth on the streets of downtown Denver. Many of these troubled young men and women in the  run-away from a bad home situation or just out of their own rebellion. They “run into” Doyle and his staff and find themselves confronted by a heavenly father who loves them and desires relationship with them. Doyle has been used on several occasions to reconnect a youth to his or her family and to be a turning point on the road of a run-away.

When I think of run-away youth, the “prodigal son” comes to mind. Leaving the safety, security and provisions of home and his father, he ventures out to experience life on his own. In time he finds himself moving from party life to pig-pen living. When he decides to stop running and return home, he finds a father waiting, looking and longing to celebrate.

Onesimus, found a new relationship he never had and came to a family her never knew. The prodigal grew tired to the family he knew and in viewing it with contempt, went out on his own to “experience life.” In the process he discovered the value of the life he was living. Both of these related to situations of individual lives today.

Mark journeyed with Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey. For some reason, before the trip was over, he “ran-away” and returned home. This act of desertion had such a negative impact on Paul, it lead to a separating of ways between Paul and Barnabas. However, as Paul comes to the end of his life, he recognizes that Mark has proven himself to be a committed follower of Christ and a valuable partner in ministry. As others are leaving Paul, he seeks to be restored to Mark. (This is Mark, who is considered to be first gospel writer.)

What we see in Mark, is that how you end is more important than the mistakes or poor judgments or issues of the past. The Lord redeems our failures. We must remember that our failures are not fatal when it comes to the Lord. “…though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again…” (Proverbs 24:16 NIV)

The bottom line? There is hope for run-aways. Perhaps that run-away is you, or someone you know.

I traveled to Denver today. I stopped by Colorado Christian University to drop off a copy of my book to President Bill Armstrong. What a gracious and effective leader and servant of the Lord! I was at the Capitol testifying on a Physical therapy bill in the senate. Our bill is on life support; but we are trusting for a resurrection.

Yesterday evening, my day ended with a trip to Brighton and a visit  with father’s cousin, Courtland Rybicka (age 90). I took him a copy of my book to thank him for his support of my recovery. We enjoyed a meal out and conversation about family history.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “For this reason, although I have great boldness in Christ to command you to do what is right, I appeal to you, instead, on the basis of love.” Philemon 8,9 HCSB

What is the best way to motivate someone to action. I recall in my University business management classes forty years ago, discussing extrinsic versus intrinsic motivation. Motivations by outward force compared to inward desire. Paul, even though he was in a position of authority to demand Philemon act in the way he desired in restoring a runaway slave, chooses a different approach. His appeal is the basis of love. Love for Christ and love for one whose life has been changed by Christ.

Paul did so knowing Philemon’s heart. “For I have great joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.” (Philemon 7) Paul knew Philemon’s character and actions that reflected love for Christ and love for others. As a result, his appeal was not based on something that was “out of character” for this brother in the Lord.

Paul places himself in a position as  one committed to reconciling broken trust and broken relationships. In many situations that is what is needed. Paul had relationship with Onesimus, he had relationship with Philemon. He stood in a unique position to leverage his relationship with both of these men to bridge the gap of separation and for the “prodigal slave” to be returned to his master.

But this reconciliation would begin a new relationship. As Paul reflected, “For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently, no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother.” (Philemon 15,16 HCSB)

Paul seem to apply his own Romans 8:28 perspective here. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

What good could come out of a slave running away? A slave that in his running away from his master, ends up running into the arms of “The Master.” Onesimus “runs into Paul” who introduces him to Jesus and the slave of a man becomes a slave of Christ. And now as a slave of Christ, the slave of man, becomes a brother in the Lord. Who said, “God doesn’t have a sense of humor?!”

In our lives God may want to use us in reconciling broken relationships. I’m glad Paul didn’t say “that’s not my business” or “Onesimus, you are on your own.” Remember how a man by name of Barnabas, brought a newly converted Saul of Tarsus to the apostles in Jerusalem?

We need to know the best way to approach someone to challenge them to do what is honoring to the Lord. We can demand, quote scripture and lecture; or as Paul, we can appeal on the “basis of love.” Sometimes, we may need to wait and allow the Lord to work on the heart. We don’t know how quickly Philemon responded to Paul’s appeal but we can be confident that he did.

Once again we see the practicality of the Bible. What present day “business management” has described as methods of motivation, we see reflected in this personal letter of Paul to a friend.

Today was a busy a long and busy day. But is was a good day. My day had of meetings had two significant personal connections, that served as the bookends of my day. This morning, I met with Marilyn Schock, the COO of Medical Center of the Rockies and Poudre Valley Hospital (part of UC Health Systems). When I was first hospitalized at McKee Hospital in July 2013, Marilyn was the CEO of the hospital. She made several late night visits to my ICU room to visit and encourage me. Her Occupational Therapy background equipped her with the ability to read lips. I was surprised how those visits that took place almost three years ago were so fresh in her mind. They provided greater insight to me of what I was experiencing and feeling during those early days. It was an honor to meet her when I was conscious and to present her with a copy of my book. (I will share about my end of the day meeting tomorrow)

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time:  “Get up! Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach the message that I tell you.”  So Jonah got up and went to Nineveh according to the Lord’s command.” Jonah 3:1-3 HCSB

Have you ever been given a “second chance”? While life does not have a “rewind” button, we are often afforded a second chance. Perhaps it is in a job, a marriage, in school, in a friendship. A second chance indicates an opportunity to “get it right” the second time. It is an opportunity to redeem past failures or missed opportunities. Life can be unforgiving, so when second chances come our way, it is important to understand the “gift” we have been given.

Jonah had a second chance to respond to God’s call to preach to the city of Nineveh. It is easy to gloss over the statement, but it should get our attention, “Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time….” After surviving a fierce storm and spending three days in the belly of a fish, Jonah was in  a different state of mind.

The first time God spoke to Jonah this was his response, “The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: “Get up! Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because their wickedness has confronted Me.”  However, Jonah got up to flee to Tarshish from the Lord’s presence….” (Jonah 1:1-3 HCSB)

Jonah not only rejected the Lord’s instruction, he tried to get as far as he could from Nineveh and the presence of the Lord. But Jonah found the Lord could put a “hook” in the plans of man as easy as a man can put a hook in the mouth of a fish.

Sometimes the preparation for a second chance requires the Lord getting our attention through some difficult situations and circumstances. Jonah being fish bait was unique, but the Lord can use other means to get our attention. Like Jesus words to Saul on the road to Damascus we learn “It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” (Acts 26:14 NIV) or as the New Living Translation explains, “It is useless for you to fight against my will.”

Jonah became the most effective evangelist of his day. Going in to the capital city of the enemy of Israel and preaching judgment, the people begin to heed the message and respond in fasting and repentance. Some commentators believe the effectiveness of Jonah’s message may have been enhanced by the seaweed around his head and his skin bleached pale by the stomach acids of a fish! I’m thankful God uses those who have a “second chance.” Missed opportunities, can be turned into redeemed opportunities when God is in charge of our life.

I am thankful for one who has been given a “second chance.” Not only in life, but in a focus of life that is bringing greater glory and honor to the Lord. My health crisis has afforded opportunities for ministry and an impact on others that is greater than that which I had when in active pastoral ministry.

Going into politics was not a “walking away” from God, but it was a significance change from the focus of ministry that had been a part of my life for almost 28 years. While the opportunities are far different than in the past, the Lord has provided an outlet for sharing Biblical truth as a teacher and coming alongside of people in the sunset years of life as a pastor that resonated with me in the early years of my call to ministry.

You may not have the opportunity for a complete “do over” but the Lord will provide you a “second chance” if you ask for it, recognize it and seize it. It is all part of His work of redemption.

Today I was up early, had my morning Bible reading, took a nap and got up before 7:30 a.m. I spent most of the day on some office work and getting some final adjustments made for my book. I did have a fitness center workout and the rest of my week is fairly busy with appointments each day.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “I will fervently thank the Lord with my mouth; I will praise Him in the presence of many. For He stands at the right hand of the needy to save him from those who would condemn him.”                      Psalm 109:30,31 HCSB

So often in our world today, we hear the question asked, “who is looking out for the “little guy?” We hear politicians say that they will look after those so easily overlooked in society and those who are struggling and oppressed.

These are some of the thoughts that came to my minds when I read, “He stands at the right hand of the needy to save him from those who would condemn him.” Consider the complaint of the psalmist in his need, oppression and suffering…

“They surround me with hateful words and attack me without cause.” (Psa. 109:3 HCSB)

“They repay me evil for good, and hatred for my love.” (Psa. 109:5 HCSB)

“He loved cursing…he took no delight in blessing….” (Psa. 109:17 HCSB)

“I have become an object of ridicule to my accusers; when they see me, they shake their heads in scorn.” (Psa. 109:25 HCSB)

The palmist in responding to those who are oppressing, pleads with God to “get ’em.”

“Set a wicked person over him; let an accuser stand at his right hand.  When he is judged, let him be found guilty, and let his prayer be counted as sin….Let his children wander as beggars, searching for food far from their demolished homes. Let a creditor seize all he has; let strangers plunder what he has worked for.” (Psa. 109:5-6,10-11 HCSB)

After he “vents his spleen” against “the man.” We see that the petitions turn toward what he needs from the Lord,

“But You, Yahweh my Lord, deal kindly with me because of Your name; deliver me because of the goodness of Your faithful love. For I am afflicted and needy; my heart is wounded within me. I fade away like a lengthening shadow; I am shaken off like a locust.…Help me, Lord my God; save me according to Your faithful love so they may know that this is Your hand and that You, Lord, have done it.” (Psa. 109:21-23, 26-27 HCSB)

It is interesting how we long for justice and judgment against others, but mercy for ourselves. Perhaps that is why Jesus said, “bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:28 NIV)

The psalmist does recognize the contrast between his accusers and the Lord. We can be confident that the Lord will come to our aid; even if He doesn’t do all that we would like Him to do those who are against us. At the end we see a clear understanding of our role and God’s role.

What is our role? “I will fervently thank the Lord with my mouth; I will praise Him in the presence of many.” We don’t back down, we stop trusting and relying on the Lord. We continue to let others know that our confidence is in the Lord. “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer…” (Psalm 18:2 NIV)

What is the Lord’s role? “He stands at the right hand of the needy to save him from those who would condemn him.” The Lord provides the strength that we need and He is ready to be the One who defends and rescues. You don’t need to rely on campaign promises to have that assurance. That’s a good thing!

This ended being a great Sunday for me. I had an early morning meeting with the Allies Men’s ministry team to work on logistics for our upcoming retreat. I then enjoyed having Steve Harris help me with a chapel service at Mackenzie Place in the morning and Jerry Pippin play the piano for an afternoon chapel service at Collinwood. Jerry is one of the best pianists that I know. I had fun, leading some old hymns, praying for the people and preaching. If I had Jerry as a pianist when I was a pastor in a rural community over 30 years ago, we could have grown the church to a large number. Jerry and his wife Virginia lead the seniors ministry at Timberlines and were a great support during my hospitalization.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His faithful love endures forever.…Let them give thanks to the Lord for His faithful love and His wonderful works for all humanity. Psalm 107:1,8 HCSB

Psalm 107 is a psalm of thanksgiving for the faithfulness of the Lord. In the process, it reveals the faults, troubles and trials that God’s people brought on themselves. They experienced the hardship of their own choices, they cried to the Lord and the Lord delivered. That seems to be the sequence that we can observe throughout time.

Throughout the psalm we find a description of the troubles and trials that came to God’s people and we read repeatedly, “Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble; He rescued them from their distress.” (Psalm 107:6,13,19,28) I’m glad for the Lord’s patience and loving kindness. He relentlessly hears our cry and rescues us from distress, even of our own making.

What is to be the response to a God like this? It is to be one of grateful praise and thanksgiving. “Let them give thanks to the Lord for His faithful love and His wonderful works for all humanity.” (Psalm 107:8,15,21,31 HCSB)

Look at the litany of God’s wonderful works and interventions available for “all humanity.” Remember that He is still doing the same today in our lives and circumstances.

“He rescued them from their distress. He led them by the right path to go to a city where they could live.” (Psa. 107:6,7) Praise God, He can direct us to where we need to be. He Rescues from the curse of sin and darkness and puts on a path to a heavenly home.

“For He has satisfied the thirsty and filled the hungry with good things.” (Psa. 107:9) Let God be the One who satisfies the true need of your life. The true needs of humanity are met in Him

“He brought them out of darkness and gloom and broke their chains apart.” (Psa. 107:14) Praise God that He is a deliver. He brings light to darkness and breaks the chains of hopelessness and despair.

“He sent His word and healed them; He rescued them from the Pit.”   (Psa. 107:20) Praise God that God’s Word is powerful to heal and to rescue.

“He stilled the storm to a murmur, and the waves of the sea were hushed….Then He guided them to the harbor they longed for.”  (Psa. 107:29-30) For the lost, harried and storm tossed, Jesus speaks “peace be still” into our lives and we can arrive at the place we have always sought.

“He turns a desert into a pool of water, dry land into springs of water. He causes the hungry to settle there, and they establish a city where they can live. They sow fields and plant vineyards that yield a fruitful harvest.” 
(Psa. 107:35-37) Praise the Lord that He creates fruitfulness where there is desolation. He provides what is needed, where it is needed…in abundance.

“…He lifts the needy out of their suffering and makes their families multiply like flocks.” (Psa. 107:41) Praise the Lord, He brings comfort to our suffering and cares for those, we care for the most.

Finally, it is imperative that we don’t treat the Lords provision with contempt. We need to stop, ponder, observe and commit our lives to the One who can intervene in our present and secure our future. “Let whoever is wise pay attention to these things and consider the Lord’s acts of faithful love.” (Psa. 107:43 HCSB)