Strength to Strength

"Blessed are those whose strength is in you, 

       who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.

 As they pass through the Valley of Baca, 

       they make it a place of springs; 

       the autumn rains also cover it with pools. 

 They go from strength to strength, 

       till each appears before God in Zion." Psalm 84:5-7

Just as the Lord brings seasonal rain to feed the lake beds and color the mountains in autumn colors, so He brings strength to those on the journey of life. One day we will appear before our God and finally realize the joy of seeing Him. What a faithful Father He is!

Soulful Rest

"Return to your rest, O my soul,

         For the LORD has dealt bountifully with you." 

Psalm 116:7

In the distance a bull elk rests in a golden meadow. He appears to be at peace. Not a care in the world. Oh that we would recognize the Lord's bountiful blessings in our lives and peacefully rest in Him.

Living Hope

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead," 1 Peter 1:3

Many pines in the Rocky Mountains have succumbed to the infestation of the pine beetle. Even so, there is hope for the forests in the form of the tiny new growth trees that can be found among the dying pines.  As Christians, we have a living hope in Jesus Christ. He died for our sins and rose again to everlasting life. When we place our trust in Him, we are born again to a living hope of eternal life.

Thirsty Souls

"He brought forth streams also from the rock

         And caused waters to run down like rivers." Psalm 78:16

The Lord provided water for the Israelites in the desert. From the rocks He brought forth life giving water. He still provides water today for those who thirst. Physical water, yes. But also spiritual water for the one whose soul is thirsty.

The Sovereignty of God

"With my great power and outstretched arm I made the earth and its people and the animals that are on it, and I give it to anyone I please." Jeremiah 27:5

The Lord God is sovereign. But He is also merciful, loving and full of grace. Although we may not always understand His ways, the more we come to know Him through His word, the more we begin to trust His sovereignty. And the longer we walk with Him, the more confident we are that He knows what is best.

Hinds Feet on High Places

"He makes my feet like hinds' feet,

         And sets me upon my high places."

Psalm 18:33

The Lord is our helper. When we are tested and tried, He is able to make us stand strong. The Amplified Bible says, "He makes my feet like hinds' feet [able to stand firmly or make progress on the dangerous heights of testing and trouble]; He sets me securely upon my high places."