Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Looking for Encouragement

I'm looking to God's Word for some encouragement today. Let me start by typing that all is good at the Dickerson house. We're in the final weeks of school for the 2 younger ones and Josh is moving home this week for about 2 1/2 months at home before moving into an apartment. I may have a different opinion about Josh moving home this time next week so check back for that! LOL Really, just kidding! Johnny is doing great, I'm doing great. In fact, we're working on a project that is super exciting for me and I cannot wait to see how it works out.

For weeks and weeks the Bible verses that have been open on my spirally (like that word?) index cards is Psalm 71:14-15 -- But has for me, I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more. My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness and of Your salvation all day long; for I do not know the sum of them.

I just opened my Bible to read the entire chapter of Psalm 71. It is awesome! It is a reminder that God is my refuge and my resting place in times of trouble. I love this -- verse 3 states, "Be to me a rock of habitation to which I may continually come." A rock of habitation. The place where I live, where I dwell. So, I dwell in the presence of God and not in the presence of my enemies or my problems. That's a choice I have to make.

Hey, is there anyone out there reading this post? If so, check out Psalm 71 and send me your comments on the chapter. What is God saying to you through His written Word?

Waiting patiently for your response...

And, serving the King,

Jeanette

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Jeanette, Someone has read your blog. It's your oldest pastor friend. Johnny worked with me at his first church staff job part-time. I've read Ps. 71 many times. It is an encouraging word to us. I especially like verse 9.
Time robs us of beauty, healthy and maybe active service, but nothing can rob us of God's love. And of course vs. 5 is very real to me. He has been my hope since I was a young teen. Good chapter and a blog from a sweet girl. God bless you sis. Doug S.

Sue said...

I've read your blog too Jeanette! And what a great Psalm this was :-)

A couple things jumped out at me as I read Psalm 71.

1. Vs 7-8 - "My life is an example to many because you have been my strength and protection. That is why I never stop praising you; I declare your glory all day long.

Our lives really are testimony to God's protection and strength! I think of how He has protected me from physical danger, spiritual danger and emotional damage. He has remained faithful and true and I can't stop praising Him for that!

2. Vs 20-21
These verses speak to me hugely as I have returned to "life" after many years of depression from infertility grief. It is because of God's love and faithfulness, reaching down and lifting me out of "the pit" that I have found restoration and comfort from Him. Again... He deserves all the praise for His goodness!

Thanks for sharing this Psalm. A great way to end my day!

Hugs

Anonymous said...

I think that Vs 19 says all that need be said...His faithfulness...His strength...really who is like Him. So why is it so easy to trust in my own wisdom and strength, when I know none is like Him?
Praise to my Rock and my Deliverer
Johnny

Kathy W said...

Thanks for encouraging me to re-read this psalm! Several things jump out at me right now in my life:
Verse 9: Although I'm not THAT old, I have been having some minor physical ailments at the same time as trying to get twin girls graduated, finishing up the school year at work, etc, that have really made me start feeling my age. But God is my constant companion!!
Verses 15-16: A real challenge that I should be telling everyone about ALL that he has done for me!
Verse 17: Reminds me of the amazing blessing I have been given in Christian grandparents and parents who poured God's love into me from before my birth!

Thanks!
Kathy W

Anonymous said...

That's IT! You've put into words what I am experiencing! I know I am "on mission" every day, "so whom shall I fear"? Here's "whom" I fear---myself, not living in His presence. So, all distractions aside, I dwell in His presence. Lately, I've had a confidence, rest and peace in this place. The place where I am seeking more of His presence, which bears more of His character revealed to me. He is the only FAITHFUL ONE! Love your blogging! Kim V.