Praises Rise in Trust

In God, whose word I praise – in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? – (Psalm 56:4, NIV)

I trust God, so I am not afraid of what people can do to me! I praise God for His promise to me. – (Psalm 56:4, ERV)

What harm could a man bring to me? With God on my side I will not be afraid of what comes. The roaring praises of God fill my heart, and I will always triumph as I trust His promises. – (Psalm 56:4, TPT)

 

As I sat at the kitchen table and watched the sun rise over the hills that surround us, I pondered the application of this verse. It goes far beyond “what can mere mortals do to me,” and really leaves us with our own space for filling in the blank. What can sickness, disease, fear, unknown, heartache, disappointment, obstacles, strokes, etc., do to me with God on my side? God is greater. I must allow His praises to fill my heart so that I allow trust to fill me, for His promises are “yes” and “amen”. He is good and His word endures forever. No mountain is too high, nor a valley too low, that His hand cannot reach to rescue, and hold us up.

Yesterday, there was a space of uncertainty as we navigated our first full day home with mom. After a bit of a startling beginning, as mentioned in yesterday’s post, we smoothed out the wrinkles a bit and began to learn a new sort of normal in her space. We knew we wanted to get mom outside, and Meg had work that had to be done. Mom was easily convinced to “supervise” me pulling weeds and shaping shrubs in the backyard from the deck, as I have limited experience in the finer art of gardening. (I was the heavy-hitting job girl growing up, as I preferred to mow the lawn and continued that track into adulthood) Any way, mom was an excellent tutor, patiently pointing out what were weeds and what were not, as I pulled and dug and collected and shaped. She was all smiles as she soaked in the warm rays of the morning sunshine and breathed in the familiar fresh air. A short while after lunch, mom had a follow up appointment with her new primary care physician. We had to make a change, as she needed a physician who specializes in working with stroke patients. This was a nervous unknown, and we were a little leery of the new. Her fabulous new physician set us all at ease from the moment she walked in. It was clear from the start that her purpose and intent for mom is the same as ours, and she got to work orchestrating all of the necessary hoop jumping and paperwork to set mom’s in-home care and therapies in motion. The appointment was not drawn out, but thorough enough to make sure that every question was answered, and we all left feeling as if we could breathe a bit more easily. We detoured to the grocery store on the way home so that one of us could run in for a few things for dinner, while the other of us waited in the car with mom. This time, Meg went in and I waited. Mom was exhausted after all of the anticipation, transportation, transfers and the new. By the time we arrived home, she was ready for a rest. We shared a wonderful dinner together, followed by a sweet movie before we all retired for the night.

Praises rise as we continue to trust, regardless of the unknown that lies ahead.

 

It is in the Lord,

Whose word I will praise;

Who I choose to trust,

And not be afraid.

No person or thing,

That comes against me; 

Is greater than God,

For in Him, I’m free.

Each new day I’ll choose,

Place all in His hands;

Trust Him to be God,

And His righteous plan.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness, even when we feel fearful. Thank You that Your goodness and love know no end. Forgive us for fearing anything that stands before us that seems beyond our own abilities. Teach us to trust You more, as the end of our own strength is the very space where Yours begins. Show us how to love those around us in ways that exhibit Your faithfulness and grace. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we trust in You and give praise to You forever. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

Those who know Your Name trust in You, for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You. – Psalm 9:10

Meeting Every Need

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus. – (Philippians 4:19, NIV)

My God will use His glorious riches to give you everything you need. He will do this through Christ Jesus. – (Philippians 4:19, ERV)

You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, His generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus. Our God and Father abounds in glory that just pours out into eternity. Yes. – (Philippians 4:19, MSG)

 

Can I get really real about God’s economy right now? For me, this has little to do with anything financial, and everything to do with time, people and strength. After having spent three years of my life as a missionary, I trust Him with finances. I know He will supply all that is needed, as it is needed. A more challenging side for me is for practical or emotional things. “Gutting things out” and “powering through”, have been my mode of operation for much of my life. Though God has disrupted my typical patterns time and time again to show me that He has me, and I give Him things over and over again, there is a part of me that still struggles with the seemingly small stuff.

Yesterday, mom had another phenomenal day! During physical therapy, she walked (heavily assisted) a good eight feet down the hallway, and she was able to move her right leg in and out with knees up when she was lying on her back. I had to fend off tears of joy at the wave of hope that flooded my happy heart.  Sadly, I felt caught in an ebb tide during speech therapy, as the therapist was explaining that mom also has aphasia (which we recognized but did not know the name – as it is when the person knows what they want to say, but can’t find the right words or can’t get them out). Watching mom struggle with verbal and visual tasks that she would have worked on with my boys when they were little, felt as if I were being drug out to sea, so far beyond the shore that I would never find my way back. The teacher in me gave mom a verbal cue that I would have given a student, and it gave mom the tool she needed to complete that particular task. Provision by His grace. Additionally, I have been antsy to get out and move. Sitting is a challenge for both mom and myself, and I know it has been hard on her. We have been told that it is no problem to take mom outside, and one therapist even suggested the coffee shop across the street. There were no particular boundaries given, so mom and I took the liberty to explore a little. I made sure we both had sunscreen and sunhats, (as it was 82 yesterday) and we started off by doing a big lap around the facility, that covers a full city block. Mom was thoroughly enjoying “cruising” as I pushed her in her chair, and I, the movement and huge smile on her face. After asking her if she was okay with us exploring further, she got a mischievous grin, and replied, “yes”. Our adventure took us another five blocks down Chelan Avenue before we turned around to head back. I had my purse and cell phone with me as safety precautions, and all was wonderful. Upon our return, we settled in and watched a movie, and mom’s bestie stopped by for a quick hug and hello. At the same time, she brought me the most amazing spinach and strawberry salad for dinner, and there was enough to left to have for lunch today as well. (Preparing dinner after leaving the hospital at 7:30 pm or so is not a joy, especially since my sister is back in Albany for now) June’s provision granted me the energy and determination to run errands after leaving the hospital, instead of going straight home to mom’s house. While wandering through Target, I became overwhelmed. I imagine it was simply the roller coaster of the day catching up to me, but if anyone had been watching me walk through the store, I think they might have thought I was on something. Somehow, I managed to find the few things I intended to purchase, but had this horrible empty, alone feeling. In the midst of it, I received a perfectly timed text from a friend, whom I appreciate so much from school, who was just checking in. It was what I needed when I needed it. Between messages from my bestie, check-ins with my children, and a day-closing conversation with my incredibly supportive spouse, I ended the day knowing all was in His hands. God knows. God provides. People are His greatest riches; we simply must keep our eyes open to see them.

 

Holy, beloved,

On the side of the road as I drove home last night. ❤

The Lord above all;

Faithful Provider,

He won’t let us fall.

Our needs are all known,

Not one goes unseen;

As we seek the Lord,

We learn what love means.

Love sees and love knows,

The things of the heart;

That cause fear and doubt,

Lies that tear apart.

When we are open,

In love, the Lord moves;

Needs met tangibly,

His power, He proves.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your goodness and grace, and for the way that You love us so very well. Thank You that You are our Provider, and that we need not worry about having or being enough. Thank You that You provide the strength and resources we need to overcome every obstacle that stands before us. Forgive us for thinking that we have to power through things or gut them out on our own, as Your do not call us to that. Thank You that You never leave us nor forsake us, even when we feel alone. Thank You that You make Your love tangible. Show us how to be Your hands, heart and voice to those around us, so that others too, may be unarguably aware of Your goodness and grace. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we give You thanks for Your faithful provision and Your power as You continue to move on Mom’s behalf. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace. – Psalm 29:11

Understanding Leads to Gratitude

And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for the Mighty One has done great things for me – holy is His Name.” – (Luke 1:46-47,49, NIV) 

Mary said, “With all my heart I glorify the Lord! In the depths of who I am I rejoice in God my Savior, because the Mighty One has done great things for me. Holy is His Name.” – (Luke 1:46-47, 49, CEB) 

And Mary sang this song: “My soul is ecstatic, overflowing with praises to God! My spirit bursts with joy over my life-giving God! The Mighty One has worked a mighty miracle for me; holy is His Name. – (Luke 1:46-47, 49, TPT) 

 

As I continue to read through and take in the story of Jesus’ arrival, I am moved by the willingness and awareness that Mary had, as the miracle of Christ was coming into existence through her humility and faith. She stands in continuous awe at the wonder unfolding in her life, and gives God praise for who He is and what He is doing. “Her humble perspective forms the basis of her gratitude. The exemplary character of Mary grows out of her understanding of God’s character.” – (The IVP New Testament Commentary) Mary’s example demonstrates how we ought to view both ourselves and our Mighty God. She recognized that though God owed her nothing, He had chosen her. Consequently, Mary knew that God ought to have all – her heart, soul, mind and strength, because He is the One who is holy and deserving of all praise. May we also recognize the holiness of God, the great things that He has done, and as a result, offer all of our praise. 

 

Let all that I am,

Photo by Dee Jones of Open Door Photography ❤

Offer the Lord praise; 

For who our God is, 

And all of His ways. 

My heart cannot help, 

But give thanks to Him; 

For all He has done, 

Brought light where life’s dim. 

May my very soul, 

All that’s within me; 

Honor God always, 

As His love sets free. 

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are our Mighty God who does wonderful things and the One alone who deserves all of our gratitude. Forgive us for not recognizing and honoring You for who You are and all that You do. Teach us how to recognize the everyday wonder that You place in our path and the people whom You provide as blessings in our lives. Show us how to love those around us in a way that reflects our gratitude and awe at who You are and how You love. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we praise You with all that we are for who You are and all that You do. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. – Colossians 3:16

Our Words Are Heard

For Christ did not enter a sanctuary made with human hands that was only a copy the true one; He entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God’s presence. – (Hebrews 9:24, NIV)

Christ went into the Most Holy Place. But it was not the man-made one, which is only a copy of the real one. He went into heaven, and He is there now before God to help us. – (Hebrews 9:24, ERV)

The Anointed One did not enter into handcrafted sacred spaces – imperfect copies of heavenly originals – but into heaven itself, where He stands in the presence of God on our behalf. – (Hebrews 9:24, VOICE)

When we pray, be it a praise, a petition, a confession or a cry for help, our words make way to the very throne room of God. Because Jesus came and made way for us once and for all, we can approach His throne of grace, knowing that He hears and is moving on our behalf. I am so thankful that there is no go-between, nor series of rituals or requirements necessary to come to Christ whenever we need. So often I find myself offering up a quick prayer, unaware of the power and majesty present in the gift of grace to freely speak to the Creator of the Universe with the closeness of a loving father and faithful friend. May we appreciate in awe, the blessed gift granted through Christ, that endows unto us the opportunity to come before God for help, knowing that Christ is for us, moving on our behalf.

 

We need not worry,

Photo by Dee Jones of Open Door Photography ❤

The way has been made;

Free to approach God,

The price has been paid.

Christ went before us,

And sees us with love;

So now without fear,

We seek God above.

Let us not forget,

This grace we have found;

All thanks be to God,

Who makes love abound.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You sent Your Son to make the way for us to approach Your throne of grace. Thank You that You hear every word uttered, both in our hearts and with our voices. Forgive us for the times that we have not sought You in our need, or have neglected to give You gratitude for Your unending faithfulness. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would seek You in all things and give You thanks for all that You have done, are doing, and shall do. Show us how to love those around us well, so that they may come to know of Your unending faithfulness. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we seek You and pray to You, trusting in Your faithfulness forever. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles. – Psalm 34:17

 

 

Goodness Found in Faith

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. – (Hebrews 11:6, NIV)

Without faith no one can please God. Whoever comes to God must believe that He is real and that He rewards those who sincerely try to find Him. – (Hebrews 11:6, ERV)

And without faith living within us it would be impossible to please God. For we come to God in faith knowing that He is real and that He rewards the faith of those who give all their passion and strength into seeking Him. – (Hebrews 11:6, TPT)

 

Faith is like a muscle, we all are inherently born with the propensity to have it, yet unless it is exercised, it atrophies and becomes weak. However, as we exercise our faith, it grows stronger. What may begin as a faint fleck of faith, has the capacity to develop and be transformed into something monumental that moves mountains and paves paths where there previously seemed to be no way. God is faithful to meet us where we are as we seek Him, our part is to look to Him, as He is already looking to us. The Lord is not pushy, He is patient and loving and kind. He will only enter in if invited, so our portion is to seek, ask and believe. May we ever pursue a life of opportunities to grow our faith further in Him, for God is faithful and will make His goodness known as we seek and trust in Him.

 

Let us trust the Lord,

Photo by Dee Jones of Open Door Photography ❤

For that’s how faith grows;

And it is by faith,

That God’s goodness shows.

He’s faithful to hear,

Each word that we pray;

By His loving grace,

He’ll show us the way.

The way to new life,

Where faith overcomes;

No mountain too high,

To block God’s outcome.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that as we choose to exercise our faith in You, You grow and strengthen that which is in us to move past all that lies before us. Forgive us for the times that we have lacked the faith to seek You. Teach us to trust You more, as You are mightier than all that stands before us. Show us how to love those around us in a way that blesses hearts and renews hope. May many find faith in You forever. Be glorified O God, as we seek You and ever move forward in faith, trusting that You will grow that which is within us to move all that is before us. Amen.

 

 

© Shannon Elizabeth (Moreno) Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. – Hebrews 11:1

Rejoice in Our Refuge

But let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread Your protection over them, that all who love Your Name may be filled with joy. – (Psalm 5:11, NLT)

But let those who trust in You be happy forever. Protect and strengthen those who love Your Name. – (Psalm 5:11, ERV)

But let those who run to You for safety be glad they did; let them break out in joyful song. May You keep them safe – their love for You resounding in their hearts. – (Psalm 5:11, VOICE)

 

David reminds us that when we chose to trust in God, He is our source of safety, strength and joy. As we recognize the Lord’s protection, His love for us becomes increasingly evident. When we know we are loved, we cannot help but be filled with joy. Just as there is great joy and security in knowing we are loved by another person, how much more does this hold true when the love and protection come from the Creator of all that is and was and ever will be? May we take refuge and rejoice in our Redeemer, as He alone is worthy of our praise as our Protector and Provider of joy.

 

Let us run to God, 

For safety and joy;

It is by His love,

His strength is employed.

He is our refuge,

Protection and peace;

He loves forever,

In Him, joy’s complete.

So trust in the Lord,

Rejoice in His Name;

He’s faithful always,

In Him, there’s great gain.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that all who take refuge in You have reason to rejoice, as You are our strength and protection. Thank You that Your love fills us with joy. Forgive us for not running to You when we are fearful or uncertain of what stands before us. Teach us to trust You in all things at all times, as You are our refuge and reason for joy. Show us how to love others in a way that strengthens, encourages and shares the joy that we’ve come to know in You. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we take refuge in You and rejoice in Your faithfulness forever. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. – 1 Peter 2:19

How Impossible Becomes Possible

Remember, what is humanly impossible is possible with God. – (Luke 18:27, VOICE)

He replied, “What is impossible for people is possible with God.” – (Luke 18:27, NLT)

Jesus answered, “God can do things that are not possible for people to do.” – (Luke 18:27, ERV)

 

The mountains that lie before us, no matter how great or small, can be climbed or moved when we rely on Christ. In our own strength, there is much that is seemingly impossible that stands before us, beckoning to be accomplished. Through human insight and understanding, it seems we may as well stop before we even start. However, if God has called us to something, He will lead us through it. The seemingly impossible becomes possible, as we choose to be led by faith and not by sight. God’s grace, goodness, provision and strength, carry us further than we ever thought we might go. May we look to the Lord and be led by faith, rather than staying stuck on the seeming impossibilities that stand in front of us.

 

Mountains before us, 

That seem far too high;

Passable in Christ,

When on Him, we rely.

No height that’s too great,

Nor valley too low;

All that’s before us,

With us, God will go.

So trust in the Lord,

And see what He’ll do;

Mountains will be moved,

As we’re carried through.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that what is impossible for us, is possible with You. Thank You that in You, all things are possible. Thank You that You do not call us to anything that You are not also willing to strengthen, equip and carry us through. Forgive us for our fear and lack of faith when we see the seemingly impossible standing in front of us. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would see the seeming impossibilities as opportunities for Your power to be demonstrated in incredible new ways. Show us how to love others in ways that help them to see the possibilities before them rather than the obstacles. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we trust You to do the impossible in our lives, as only You can. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Answer me, O Lord, out of the goodness of Your love; in Your great mercy turn to me. – Psalm 69:16

Present With Me

I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me. – (Psalm 16:8, NLT)

I always remember that the Lord is with me. He is here, close by my side, so nothing can defeat me. – (Psalm 16:8, ERV)

He is ever present with me; at all times He goes before me. I will not live in fear or abandon my calling because He stands at my right hand. – (Psalm 16:8, VOICE)

 

The one thing that we can count on in life, is change. No matter how much we want the world around us to stay the same, there are variables that we cannot control, and change is inevitable. Often the change that we fear the most, challenges us and grows us the most. If we remember who goes before us and is present with us, regardless of what lies ahead, we will not be shaken to the point of no return. Some of the most beautiful transformations take place in dark and uncomfortable spaces. Incredibly, what emerges at the end of the press, is a thing of beauty, strength, and new life. God does this with us too. This new school year that lies before me is full of change. We have new administrators, many new staff members, and I will be in a new teaching position. I am not necessarily fearful, but am a bit reluctant, as I know not what lies ahead in this unknown. What I have to remember is who goes before me, and why I do what I do. May we ever trust the Lord and His presence in the places and spaces that we are called to walk, knowing that He will go before us and never leave us, even in the new and unknown.

 

The Lord is with me, 

Wherever I go;

He goes before me,

This truth, I do know.

He’ll stay by my side,

No matter what comes;

I need never fear,

All battles, He’s won.

Let us choose rise up,

In faith, move ahead;

Answer all He asks,

Do all He has said.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are always with us. Thank You that we will not be shaken because You will remain beside us. Forgive us for our fears or for the moments we move away from that which we’ve been called to do. Teach us how to trust You and Your presence more. Show us how to love those around us in a way that strengthens and encourages others to be all that You have made them to be. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we go forth without fear, trusting Your presence every step that we take. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me. – Genesis 21:6

Perfection, Promises and Protection

God’s way is perfect. All the Lord’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to Him for protection. – (Psalm 18:30, NLT)

God’s way is perfect. The Lord’s promise always proves to be true, He protects those who trust in Him. – (Psalm 18:30, ERV)

Everything God does is perfect; the promise of the Eternal rings true; He stands as a shield for all who hide in Him. – (Psalm 18:30, VOICE)

 

All that God is and all that God does are good. When we trust in Him, we begin to recognize the truth of His word, and understand how He protects and fulfills His promises. This does not mean we are sheltered from struggles and trials, but it does mean that He is with us and will never leave us, and that He guards our hearts and minds as we choose to be covered by truth. God is faithful to keep us in His hands, and will walk beside us every step we take. We can always run to Him as our hiding place and our space of help and hope. He leads where we are meant to go, and will provide what we need to do as He asks. His ways are perfect, even when they do not make sense to us. May we ever trust the Lord and His promises, and look to Him to be a shield about us as we go where He leads.

 

God’s way is perfect,

His promises true;

He’ll do what He says,

Protect and lead through.

Life won’t be easy,

But oh, what a ride;

For all who choose trust,

In the Lord, abide.

Each promise He makes,

By faith, shall prove true;

Stand firm and go forth,

As He leads us through.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that Your way is perfect and Your promises prove true. Thank You that You are a shield for those who look to You for protection. Thank You that though there are trials and struggles, You never leave us nor forsake us, and utilize the difficulties we endure to show us more of who You are and how You love. Forgive us for not trusting or for not seeking You as we should, as You are our place of promise and the One to whom we can run. Teach us how to trust You more, so that we would trust in Your promises and Your protection, knowing that You are with us and will never forsake us, even when things are not easy. Show us how to love well, those who are in the midst of the difficult. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we trust in Your ways and know that Your promises are true as You protect us and lead us in all things. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. – James 5:11

Trust in the Face of Fear

But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. – (Psalm 56:3, NLT)

When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. – (Psalm 56:3, NIV)

 

Both versions of this verse are a great reminder of how we are meant to respond to fear. One is an action statement for the right now, and the other is anticipating an action plan for whatever lies ahead. In each circumstance, our response ought to be to trust the Lord, as He is our help and our hope for today, tomorrow and forever. Despite the faithfulness God has shown before, in our frail humanity, we often lose sight of how great our God is, and focus instead on how overwhelming the obstacle in our path. This is the place where we must slow down, breathe deeply, and remember Who is far greater than anything that lies before us. When the rubber meets the road and fear stares us directly in the face, this, this is the space where we have to choose whether or not we will trust. God is patient, and it seems that even when I choose panic over trust, He waits lovingly until I come to the place where I am ready to turn to Him, and walks beside me and guides me to lead me from a place of fear to one of resolve. God is good and worthy of all of our trust. May we place our trust in Him when we feel fear fighting for a foothold.

 

When I feel afraid,

The Lord’s ever near;

If I choose to trust,

He will always hear.

Whatever we face,

God is so much more;

His presence provides,

Love, strength, hope and more.

He goes before us,

And He stands beside;

There’s nothing we face,

That He can’t supply.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that when we are afraid, we can place our trust in You. Thank You that You are worthy of all of our trust, as You alone supply the strength, courage and grace that we need to overcome every obstacle that lies before us. Forgive us for our fearfulness that keeps us from moving forward. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would seek You in faith, believing that You are who You say You are and that You will do what You say You will do. Show us how to love those around us in a way that helps alleviate fears and gives strength and courage to persevere in the face of adversity. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we trust in You when we are afraid. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy. – Hebrews 4:16