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This Week…Psalm 31:19

July 24, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo

How great is Your goodness,
Which You have stored up for those who fear You,
Which You have wrought for those who take refuge in You,
Before the sons of men!
Psalm 31:19

*   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

This week, here on the Seeking Him devotional blog, we  have been reminded of our God’s GREAT goodness!   Our devotional writers have shared the Truth given us in this week’s passage through the devotionals they have written.  Here are a few of their thoughts….

In Fear of the Lord, Tina gave us two examples: the Israelites who did NOT have the fear of the Lord as opposed to the first-century Church who DID live in the fear of the Lord….

“The first-century Church (shown to us in the Book of Acts) practiced the fear of the Lord.

So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria
had peace and was being built up.
And walking in the fear of the Lord
and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.
Acts 9:31

The early Church chose to focus on what was good in their lives and keep up their community by seeking daily to bless others and be God’s best.

We can walk in this way as well.  When we are coming into a state of turmoil, we can choose to walk in God’s goodness by following His Will in our lives.”

❦

In God’s Goodness, Ann shared numerous Scriptures relating to the goodness of our God….

“Let me just show you a few verses in the Bible that show the goodness of God.

• Psalm 25:8  Good and upright is the Lord therefore He instructs sinners in His ways.
• Psalm 33:5   The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love.
• Psalm 34:8   Taste and see that the Lord is good, blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.
• Psalm 119:68   You are good and what You do is good, teach me your decrees.
• Psalm 145:7  They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness.
• Matthew 19:17  “Why do you ask Me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”

The above Scriptures speak to us in many ways, showing us the ways of the goodness of the Lord.  It is by His grace and His lovingkindness to put in store all this goodness just for us.  The beneficiaries of His goodness are you and I—as long as we do His will and walk in His statutes.  God’s goodness is immeasurable. The grace of God takes us to that level where we are able to receive this goodness.”

❦

And in Using Blessings to Share God, Ahmee encouraged us to be sure to point others to the goodness of our God….

Psalm 31:19 says “…blessing them before the watching world…”.  I like that!  God blesses us before the eyes of the watching world.  He is using us to draw attention to Himself so that others will be saved.  God reaches and searches and hunts down. Truly, I cannot see how any one person might be able to say that they did not know of the Almighty God.  In this world of evil He has done so much.  So, let the world watch!  Let them watch and let them see!  But don’t forget to point them upward.  Use your blessings as the opportunity to point someone to God.

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You Are Such a Good God

July 23, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo

How abundant are the good things
that You have stored up for those who fear You,
that You bestow in the sight of all,
on those who take refuge in You.
Psalm 31:19

 *   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

Oh, Lord, we are so grateful for Your abundant goodness!  You have purposed and planned to take care of us—and we are so thankful.  You make it so easy to boast of our great God and to share with those around us of Your grace and goodness.  Today may we live our lives in such a way that we are not a hindrance and do not detract from the glory that belongs to You.  May our friends and family…our enemies even…be drawn to You as they cannot help but acknowledge Your blessings, Your goodness, Your benevolence as they see how graciously You care for us.  We love You…we praise You…we glorify You!  And we pray, thanking You for these things, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Fear of the Lord

July 22, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo

How great is Your goodness,
which You have stored up for those who fear You,
which You have wrought for those
who take refuge in You…
Psalm 31:19

 *   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

What is it to ‘fear the Lord’?  Fear normally has a negative connotation to it.  We think of someone who may be ‘paralyzed with fear’.  But this is not what the psalmist is speaking of here.

God gave His people rules and laws when they came out of Egypt.  Why?  Because for over 400 years they were not able to think for themselves.  They had lived and functioned in a pagan land filled with idols and artificial gods.  Those who did remember God’s promises had to really protect themselves from the influence of the pagan culture.

When we study the Old Testament teachings about the Hebrew people, we often think, “Why were they so stubborn?”  Couldn’t they see what they are doing by not obeying Moses and Aaron? Why did Aaron build the golden calf when he knew Moses was on the mountain with God?  The reason?—they were human and did not have the same type of relationship with God as Moses had.  As they continued to walk with Moses they did learn more of God’s character, but still chose not to trust Him. We, today, still have similar choices to make.

As we walk with God and study His Word, we are inviting wisdom and knowledge to come in.  We are saying that we want more than just a casual relationship with God.  We want to become invested in His Will for our lives.  It’s like with your friends—you talk to them and get to know who they are and what their likes and dislikes are.  So when we chose to not to make time for God, we are saying He is not important.

We must strive to cultivate an attitude of respect. Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.”  The first-century church (shown to us in the Book of Acts) practiced the fear of the Lord.  

So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria
had peace and was being built up.
And walking in the fear of the Lord
and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.
Acts 9:31

The early Church chose to focus on what was good in their lives and keep up their community by seeking daily to bless others and be God’s best.

We can walk in this way as well.  When we are coming into a state of turmoil, we can choose to walk in God’s goodness by following His Will in our lives.

 *   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

Let’s pray:  Father, I come humbly before You, thanking You for Your goodness.  Give me a heart to seek after You and Your Word and be a light to others.  Help me not to become distracted and to remain focused on You.  In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Using Blessings To Share God

July 21, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo

How great is the goodness
You have stored up for those who fear You?
You lavish it on those who come to You for protection,
blessing them before the watching world.
Psalm 31:19

 *   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

God blesses those who love Him and live according to His Word.  This is a known fact.  We as believers have seen this happen over and over.  And what do God’s blessings look like to the world?  Hopefully, they are seeds planted and beacons that draw them towards God.  I say hopefully because we can be blessed and yet fail to give credit where credit is due—to God.

When I first got saved I always thought it was odd that people would say “God willing…” or “Glory to God!”  I had this mentality that not everything had to be “Glory to God!” or that God was willing.  I used to view these statements as zealous or at least unnecessary.  I get it now, though.  Given, when talking to an unbeliever, I feel some explanation would be helpful; but we need to give God credit where credit is due.

Psalm 31:19 says “…blessing them before the watching world…”.  I like that!  God blesses us before the eyes of the watching world.  He is using us to draw attention to Himself so that others will be saved.  God reaches and searches and hunts down. Truly, I cannot see how any one person might be able to say that they did not know of the Almighty God.  In this world of evil He has done so much.  So, let the world watch!  Let them watch and let them see!  But don’t forget to point them upward.  Use your blessings as the opportunity to point someone to God.

 *   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

Lord, help us to use our blessings to point others to You…whether through our finances, our time, or our treasures.  May all that You have given us be used for Your glory.  Help us to not live self-centered lives, but people-centered lives.  Let us be open to all opportunities that You may send our way.  Give us the courage to speak up and out about anything You may place on our hearts.  May we change the world one heart at a time with You, for Your glory, and with Your provision.  Thank You, Amen.

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God’s Goodness

July 20, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo

How great is Your goodness,
which You have stored up for those who fear You,
which You bestow in the sight of men
on those who take refuge in You.
Psalm 31:19

*   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10, Psalm 111:10).  There are so many blessings and so much goodness that follows the true children of God—the ones who really fear Him and do His Will always.

Let me just show you a few verses in the Bible that show the goodness of God.

• Psalm 25:8  Good and upright is the Lord therefore He instructs sinners in His ways.
• Psalm 33:5   The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of His unfailing love.
• Psalm 34:8   Taste and see that the Lord is good, blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him.
• Psalm 119:68   You are good and what You do is good, teach me your decrees.
• Psalm 145:7  They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness.
• Matthew 19:17  “Why do you ask Me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”

The above Scriptures speak to us in many ways, showing us the ways of the goodness of the Lord.  David asked, “What is man that God should be mindful of him?” (Psalm 8:4).  It is by His grace and His lovingkindness to put in store all this goodness just for us.  The beneficiaries of His goodness are you and I—as long as we do His will and walk in His statutes.  God created us in His own image and own likeliness.  We need to be like our Father for us to enjoy the fruits of the land.  God’s goodness is immeasurable. The grace of God takes us to that level where we are able to receive this goodness.

*   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

Let us pray: Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Your holy name.  King of glory, I worship You.  May Your goodness continue to shower on us.  May we experience the abundance of Your goodness in due time.  Give us the heart to fear You, Lord, and to do Your commandments.  We need You each and every day in our lives.  Holy Spirit, help us in our prayers.  In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen.

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You Have Been So Good

July 19, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo

How great is Your goodness,
Which You have stored up for those who fear You,
Which You have wrought for those who take refuge in You,
Before the sons of men!
Psalm 31:19

You have been so good
You have been so good to me
In my faithless hour
You’ve been my Strength
You are my Tower
From the enemy
You have been so good
So good to me

Your hand is always faithful
Your mercy never ends
And when I feel unable
Your grace is there again

You chose me in my weakness
And all my sins forgave
I’ve nothing to repay You
So all that I can say

Lenny LeBlanc
singer/songwriter

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This Week…Psalms 25:6-7

July 17, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo

Remember, O Lord, Your compassion and unfailing love,
which You have shown from long ages past.
Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth.
Remember me in the light of Your unfailing love,
for You are merciful, O Lord.
Psalms 25:6-7

In Forgiveness for All, Ahmee  reminded us of how great God’s forgiveness is…

Have you ever forgiven someone and then find yourself still thinking about it?  That’s when you have to remind yourself that you forgave them.  Human forgiveness is flawed.  We remember what was done to us.  Given some people can just let stuff go, but most people still remember.  God’s forgiveness is different.  God does not remember our past sins.  God’s Word says plenty about His forgiveness.

Then He adds, “Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more.”
Hebrews 10:17

As far as the east is from the west,
so far has He removed our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just
and will forgive us our sins
and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9

❦

In God’s Mercy and Goodness, Tina  wrote about David, and his example of a repentful heart…

You have to love how transparent David is in his prayers to God..David made a habit of pouring out his heart and soul before His Almighty Father.  David was human and he made mistakes just as we do. The only thing is he had a repentful heart; and, most of the time, we are busy and forget to confess our sin.  Then it all turns to regrets, and kind of piles up into such a huge mess that we even forget where the top or bottom is.  Daily…hourly…by the minute we should bring our issues, our thoughts,  our prayers to the throne of God.  Often we need to leave them there, leave them at the foot of the Cross because He is better able to handle each of our needs, wants, and desires.

❦

In Divine Remembrance, Ann gave us some additional examples of men calling on God to remember them…

Nehemiah 

Remember me, O my God, concerning this,
and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done
for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof.
Nehemiah 13:14

David 

Remember me, O Lord, with the favor Thou beareth unto Thy people,
O visit me with Thy salvation.
Psalm 106:4

Jeremiah

 Lord, Thou knowest: remember me, and visit me,
and revenge me of my persecutors;
take me not away in Thy longsuffering:
know that for Thy sake I have suffered rebuke.
Jeremiah 15:15

The criminal who hung alongside Jesus

And he said unto Jesus, “Lord, remember me
when Thou comest into Thy kingdom.”
Luke 23:42

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Forgiveness For All

July 16, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo

Remember, O Lord, Your compassion and unfailing love,
which You have shown from long ages past.
Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth.
Remember me in the light of Your unfailing love,
for You are merciful, O Lord.
Psalms 25:6-7

Have you ever had to forgive someone?  It’s not always the easiest thing to do.  You have to process your feelings and then consciously make the decision to forgive.  Then (for some of us) it’s a daily thing—we often have to remind ourselves that we have already forgiven that person.  On the other hand, forgiving comes naturally to some people.  I am not one of those people.  If I feel I have truly been wronged, it takes me some time to process my emotions (usually 1-3 days).

Have you ever forgiven someone and then find yourself still thinking about it?  That’s when you have to remind yourself that you forgave them.  Human forgiveness is flawed.  We remember what was done to us.  Given some people can just let stuff go, but most people still remember.

God’s forgiveness is different.  God does not remember our past sins.  God’s Word says plenty about His forgiveness.

Then He adds, “Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more.”
Hebrews 10:17

As far as the east is from the west,
so far has He removed our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just
and will forgive us our sins
and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9

Often we as humans find it hard to accept God’s forgiveness because we compare it to human forgiveness.  God does not have to process emotions before forgiving us and He doesn’t throw our past sins in our faces.  His forgiveness is far grander than anything we know.  Yet, people still struggle with guilt, shame, and condemnation.  These three emotions are not from God…they stem from our inability to forgive ourselves. (Yes, I said ‘ourselves’.)  When was the last time you messed up?  Did you need more than God’s forgiveness?  Did that other person forgive you?

How about we try forgiving as God does – towards ourselves and others.

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God of Mercy and Steadfast Love

July 15, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo

Remember, O Lord, Your tender mercy and loving-kindness;
for they have been ever from of old.
Remember not the sins (the lapses and frailties)
of my youth or my transgressions;
according to Your mercy and steadfast love
remember me, for Your goodness’ sake, O Lord.
Psalms 25:6 and 7 AMP

*   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

O Lord, we are so thankful that You are full of mercy and steadfast love!  Truly we do recognize our sins, our faults, our  frailties…but far more important than dwelling on them is to acknowledge  how faithful and good You are in forgiving us!   Thank You for the many examples You have given us throughout the Scriptures…of men such as Your man, David.  Thank You for showing us Your heart towards their repentance.  Thank You for the encouragement we have to do the same, knowing that their God is our God.  And that the same way You remembered not their sins, You will do the same for us according to Your goodness, Your mercy, Your steadfast love.  Thank You!  We love You and adore You!  May our hearts be set to honor and glorify You as we endeavor to be in obedience to You.  We pray these things in Jesus’ name, amen.

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Divine Remembrance

July 14, 2015 by

SeekingHimLogo
Remember Your mercy, O Lord, and Your steadfast love
For they have been from old.
Remember not the sins from my youth or my transgressions
According to your steadfast love,
Remember me for the sake of Your goodness, O Lord!
Psalms 25:6-7

This is David’s prayer.  He had searched in his heart and saw that there was no one who could help him at that hour—only Sovereign God. He cried out for remembrance.

To be remembered is ‘to be thought of.’  And you can only remember someone you have had interaction with at one time or the other.  For one to remember you it means there has been a relationship between the two of you.  Why did David call on God to remember him?  David went to a Someone he was comfortable with trusting.

Even in this physical world we live in, sometimes you meet someone who says they know you, but you don’t quite remember them…even when they try to remind you of where the two of you met.  Perhaps you feel confused.  This is the same way with the spiritual realm.  God cannot remember you if you have never been in a relationship with Him.  He will only remember you if you have interacted with Him and that your relationship is strong and operating at the highest level.  David took courage to call for remembrance for he knew His Friend, God, would come to his rescue.

How many of us can boldly come to God today asking Him to remember us without feeling perhaps guilty in one way or another because of unconfessed sin or repeated sins?  Sins hinder us from the hand of God, brethren.

Nehemiah also cried unto God for remembrance.

Remember me, O my God, concerning this,
and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done
for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof.
Nehemiah 13:14

We also see David in Psalm 106:4 calling on God for remembrance.

Remember me, O Lord, with the favor Thou beareth unto thy people,
O visit me with Thy salvation.

O Lord, Thou knowest: remember me, and visit me,
and revenge me of my persecutors;
take me not away in Thy longsuffering:
know that for Thy sake I have suffered rebuke.
Jeremiah 15:15

And he said unto Jesus “Lord, remember me when Thou comest into Thy kingdom.”
Luke 23:42

Brethren, for us to be remembered of God it means we are in a good relationship with Him.  Let us work out our relationship with God.  We need Him to remember us in all areas of our lives.

*   ~   ♥   ~   ✞   ~  ♥   ~   *

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for You are the Lord…full of steadfast love.  Great is Thy faithfulness.  We need Your grace, Lord, to be in good relationship with You.  Help us in our shortfalls, build us with Your love, create in us a clean heart, Lord.  This we ask in Jesus’ name, Amen!

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