WAY BEYOND BIBLE STUDY…

Posted on February 19, 2021 by randscallawayffm

Jesus reprimanded the Pharasees and other religious zealots for knowledge of God’s law but not knowing the Author of the law.  Sometimes we, as believers, get all caught up in what God’s Word says.  We might use it to judge others and even worship the Bible as if this book was the source of praise.  That would defeat what God is saying.  Worship God alone, says His Word to us.  His Word leads us to hear Him.  God’s Word is our code of instructions for living in His ways.  But knowing His Word does not save us, only Jesus saves us by his work on the cross.

I remember my Grandma had so much respect for the Bible that nothing, absolutely nothing could be placed on top of it as it sat on her coffee table.  As a young, mischievous child, I challenged this behavior by laying the newspaper over it just to see how long it would take Grandma to come and move it.  As habit, Grandma would walk by in mere seconds and move the paper to one side.  After three times of putting various objects on top, she figured out what I was doing and just smiled with that twinkle in her eyes.  But because I had respect for her, I didn’t do that again.  Did she worship the Bible?  Absolutely not.  This book was opened each evening just before bedtime, read and prayed over as they asked God to forgive them.  What they learned from God, the Author became their guide for living the life God wanted.  Their prayers reflected their true worship of God, “the Author and finisher of our faith”, Grandpa quoted often.  You see, Grandpa and Grandma KNEW the Author well, therefore they respected what He wrote but they worshiped Him.

Never have there been so many tools available for serious Bible study, and we are grateful for them. However, the Word of God is unlike any other book: we must be on good terms with the Author if we are to learn from what He has written. Our relationship to the Lord is determined by our relationship to His will, and that is determined by how we relate to His Word. Too many believers have only academic head knowledge of the Word, but they do not know how to put this knowledge into practice in the decisions of daily life. This is the difference between having a “Biblical worldview” as opposed to a worldview without God’s input in our behavior.  What we all need is a heart knowledge of the Word, and this means being taught by God.

Here are the conditions we must meet:

We must love His Word and meditate on it (vv. 97-100). We enjoy thinking about people and activities that we love, and meditation means loving the Lord by pondering His Word and allowing its truths to penetrate our hearts. This means that our minds and hearts are so yielded to the Spirit that He can remind us of the Word when we need it and give us fresh understanding in the new challenges we face.

We must obey His Word (vv. 101-102). A true student of the Word is not a person with a big head, full of all sorts of knowledge, but one who has an obedient heart and loves to do God’s will. While God’s truth is food for our souls, it is not a “buffet” from which we select only the things we like. If the Bible tells us something is wrong, we stay off that path. If God tells us something is right, we do not abandon it.

We must enjoy His Word (vv. 103-104). Honey would be the sweetest thing the psalmist could taste, as stated in other translations. However, the Word contains both sweetness and bitterness, and we must learn to receive both.  God’s Word is pure, not defiled, and gives us the sweetness and energy we need to obey His commands. The unsaved person finds the Bible boring, but the devoted child of God feeds on the Scriptures and enjoys the sweet taste of truth.

This is what it means to go beyond Bible study.

Worship and Wisdom, Psalms and Proverbs

Part 13 – Psalm 119, The Message

97-104 Oh, how I love all you’ve revealed;
    I reverently ponder it all the day long.
Your commands give me an edge on my enemies;
    they never become obsolete.
I’ve even become smarter than my teachers
    since I’ve pondered and absorbed your counsel.
I’ve become wiser than the wise old sages
    simply by doing what you tell me.
I watch my step, avoiding the ditches and ruts of evil
    so I can spend all my time keeping your Word.
I never make detours from the route you laid out;
    you gave me such good directions.
Your words are so choice, so tasty;
    I prefer them to the best home cooking.
With your instruction, I understand life;
    that’s why I hate false propaganda.

TRUTH: “With your instruction, I understand life; that’s why I hate false propaganda.”

Proverb 2:2-5, The Message

Tune your ears to the world of Wisdom;
    set your heart on a life of Understanding.
That’s right—if you make Insight your priority,
    and won’t take no for an answer,
Searching for it like a prospector panning for gold,
    like an adventurer on a treasure hunt,
Believe me, before you know it Fear-of-God will be yours;
    you’ll have come upon the Knowledge of God.

WISDOM: “Set your heart on a life of Understanding.” 

Abba, Father,

Thank you for your Word that speaks volumes to my soul and nourishes my mind and heart all day long and into the night.  But I worship only You, the Author of Your Word.  Your word, with the help of Your Holy Spirit in us, guides us into all Truth.  Your Word comforts, affirms, convicts, corrects, and challenges us.  Your Word is YOUR story.  When we look for You in Your Word, we find You every time.  Thank you for guiding people who loved and worshiped you to write down your story. Thank you for wisdom, the skills for living, that teaches us your ways and how to navigate this world while preparing for life eternal with you.  We definitely know when we get it right and how to correct when we get it wrong.  Thank you for revealing yourself to us through your Word.  Yes, knowing You, the Author, goes way beyond mere Bible Study.  Hallelujah!

In Jesus Name, Amen

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WHAT YOU SAY GOES!

Posted on February 18, 2021 by randscallawayffm

Think of that person in your world that you look up to so much that you want be where they are and do what they do?  When they walk into the room, your eyes light up and your heart skips a beat?  Who was this person in your childhood?  Why did you want to be with this person?  What drew you to them? 

Depending on how mature you are, you were probably impressed with admiration for many different people like this in your life’s journey.  For me, it was my Grandpa.  As a child, I wanted to be everywhere he went.  I would get up early, before the sun, just so I could be with him and do what he did.  I would follow along, right at his heels, to feed the livestock, hear him call the cattle in French, talk coaxing words to the animals in his care as they ate.  He never got tired of answering my endless questions as he worked.  He always allowed me to help in some way.  Sometimes he sang his favorite hymns as we worked and I would join in.  He made dirty, hard work seem fun.  I thought all this was a hobby for him, because he was also a carpenter after the chores!

We would finish the early chores, wash up and come to a table of biscuits, bacon and eggs fresh from the farm made with love by Grandma.  Automatically, heads were bowed before the fork was raised, to pray.  Typically, it was Grandpa who prayed. Grandpa always closed with “…and may this food be used for your juice”.  Wait, what?  “Juice”?  God makes juice?  I finally figure out, much later, what he was really saying, “and may this food be used for your intended use.”  Ah, that makes more sense.  Sometimes we have to grow up a little more to understand the meaning of what our admired person is really saying. 

Today, I can recall many mentors in my life who came alongside me to aid in my growing up years. But the One I admire most and rise early to be with is God, the Father.  Grandpa taught me to love and look to God for all of life. “What God says goes”, sings the Psalmist. 

God’s love, commands for our best, truth, mercy and grace are still as relevant for today as it was at Creation.  He never goes out of fashion.  God is not just a blip or trend for the moment, but He is Truth forever and ever. Amen.  I want to be where He is and do what He wants because God’s love never fails and never gives up on me.  My worship, awe, respect and love go beyond the admiration I had for my Grandpa, which was great.  All that I am is all for God.  God knows all and has a plan for me.  He is my Father in heaven because His Son saved my soul.  His Holy Spirit guides, corrects, challenges and leads me.  I need God every hour of every day.  I praise God for He goes beyond the limits of human love and wisdom.  I’m a mess at times, but He still loves and cares for me.  I may not always hear exactly what He is saying, but I am leaning in to listen, praying for understanding.

Yes, what you say goes, God!

Wisdom and Worship, Psalms and Proverbs

Part 12 – Psalm 119, The Message

89-96 What you say goes, God,
    and stays, as permanent as the heavens.
Your truth never goes out of fashion;
    it’s as relevant as the earth when the sun comes up.
Your Word and truth are dependable as ever;
    that’s what you ordered—you set the earth going.
If your revelation hadn’t delighted me so,
    I would have given up when the hard times came.
But I’ll never forget the advice you gave me;
    you saved my life with those wise words.
Save me! I’m all yours.
    I look high and low for your words of wisdom.
The wicked lie in ambush to destroy me,
    but I’m only concerned with your plans for me.
I see the limits to everything human,
    but the horizons can’t contain your commands!

TRUTH: “I’m only concerned with your plans for me.”  “I see the limits to everything human, but the horizons can’t contain your commands!”  What you say goes!

Proverb 1:7, The Message

WISDOM: “Start with God—the first step in learning is bowing down to God; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning.”

Abba, Father,

Thank you for bringing me into your family to receive all you are and all you have for me.  I am your child, your servant and your beloved.  You are the One and Only that I You are the One I love first, admire and respect most and want to be with more than anyone on earth for you are God!  Thank you for listening to my questions and wonderings.  Thank you for forgiving my missteps.  Thank you for loving me the way you do.  What do you want?  Where do you want me to go and what do you want me to do today? I know your agenda for me is already planned out and trumps my agenda.  Help me to read and follow your plan with understanding, wisdom and insight.  Give me courage to go where you invite me to follow.

In Jesus Name, Amen

And we’re singing…

Who the Son sets free
Oh is free indeed
I’m a child of God, yes, I am
In my Father’s house
There’s a place for me
I’m a child of God, yes, I am

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GET A GRIP…AND DON’T LET GO!

Posted on February 17, 2021 by randscallawayffm

Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me…

This song, by Matt Redman, is the background music for our psalm today. But I wonder if my grip on God and His Word is as strong as His grip on me.  It should be, for God is all I need and everything I long for in my life.  He is Love.  He is Healer, Protector and Provider.  He is God.

And I will fear no evil
For my God is with me
And if my God is with me
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?

Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me…

The Psalmist’s Faith and Patience. The focus is on the responses of the believer while he waited for the Lord to judge his enemies and deliver him from persecution and danger. His oppressors were also the enemies of the Lord and of Israel, so his concern was more than personal. Satan has been seeking to exterminate the Jews since the time the nation was in Egypt, and he will continue until the end times (Rev. 12). The Christian life is a battleground, not a playground, and we must expect troubles of this world so we are prepared for them with Jesus! (John 16:33)

So that’s why WE don’t lose our grip, never letting go, of the power, counsel, love, mercy and grace of our Lord.  Jesus is our Savior, Lord and eternal Hope.  God is our Father who loves us.

The writer’s inner person was exhausted from longing for God to work. His eyes were strained from watching for some evidence of His presence. He felt like a dried-up wineskin that had been thrown aside as useless. However, he never gave up hope, for no matter how dark the hour, the future is our friend because Jesus is our Lord. “It is always too soon to quit” (V. Raymond Edman).

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9, NIV

“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” — Isaiah 40:31

Yes, I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
Still I will praise You, still I will praise You

Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me
Oh, You never let go, You never let go

Worship and Wisdom, Psalms and Proverbs

Part 11 – Psalm 119, The Message

81-88 I’m homesick—longing for your salvation;
    I’m waiting for your word of hope.
My eyes grow heavy watching for some sign of your promise;
    how long must I wait for your comfort?
There’s smoke in my eyes—they burn and water,
    but I keep a steady gaze on the instructions you post.
How long do I have to put up with all this?
    How long till you haul my tormentors into court?
The arrogant godless try to throw me off track,
    ignorant as they are of God and his ways.
Everything you command is a sure thing,
    but they harass me with lies. Help!
They’ve pushed and pushed—they never let up—
    but I haven’t relaxed my grip on your counsel.
In your great love revive me
    so I can alertly obey your every word.

TRUTH:  Never let go.  God never lets go of us.  Our grip on His counsel is life.  His great love is our hope.  “Trust and Obey, for there’s no other way, to be happy in Jesus, is to trust and obey”.  (Old hymn of truth.)

Proverb 3:3-6, The Message

WISDOM: “Don’t lose your grip on Love and Loyalty.
    Tie them around your neck; carve their initials on your heart.
Earn a reputation for living well
    in God’s eyes and the eyes of the people.

5-12 Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
    don’t try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
    he’s the one who will keep you on track.”

Abba Father,

Thank you for saving my soul and never letting go!  Thank you for your continuous challenges so I will grow and mature in your character.  Thank you for your loving faithfulness and enduring patience with me.  Thank you for bending low to listen then speaking words of wisdom into my heart that revive my spirit and restore my joy of your salvation.  Thank you for Your Word that speaks volumes to me each morning.  Now, help me to hang on with a firm grip on You, to live what I learn.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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AH, NOW I GET IT…

Posted on February 16, 2021 by randscallawayffm

We felt it was time to move from our two-bedroom house when we had our 3rd child.  Randy had just graduated college but hadn’t secured a teaching position because he finished in the middle of the school year, so he had to wait while passing out many resumes.  In the meantime, he held a full-time factory work position during his college years to provide for his family.  I also pitched in with part time jobs I could accomplish at home while raising our kids.

We prayed.  We looked.  We filled out paperwork on nine or so “good deals” on homes that would require sweat equity to make them livable.  We assumed with our budget we would have to make it happen this way.  We thought God would never answer our prayer to make this move! 

Have you ever waited, truly waited for months?  I can’t think of anyone on earth who is gifted at waiting. 

We couldn’t see why God would allow all these good “deals” we were trying to make fall through at the last minute.  We just didn’t get it.  We saved for the down payment.  Our credit was good.  We looked in our price range.  We prayed for just the right house.  But it just wasn’t happening!  We couldn’t complete the deal UNTIL months later. 

Discouraged, I looked at the paper (a daily news and ads sort of thing typed then printed in mass quantities on actual paper that was distributed to your home daily by a boy on a bike) one more time for house ads.  My eyes were guided to an ad for a home just beyond city limits with a loan that seemed unbelievable.  I called immediately.  We met the builder that evening after Randy got off work.  We qualified!

We came away from that meeting with paperwork signed for a NEW home to be built in a school system that we favored with payments we could afford easily while getting out of the crowded city limits but close enough to live our lives as we had only dreamed.

Ah, now I see what God had waiting for us…His best, not our “make do” mediocre plan.  Since that experience, we have trusted God for every decision.  We lay before Him everything from the small details of daily life to the gigantic, earth shattering, life changing circumstances of living this life.

Worship and Wisdom, Psalms and Proverbs

Part Ten, Psalm 119, The Message

Potters Hands

73-80 With your very own hands you formed me;
    now breathe your wisdom over me so I can understand you.
When they see me waiting, expecting your Word,
    those who fear you will take heart and be glad.
I can see now, God, that your decisions are right;
    your testing has taught me what’s true and right.
Oh, love me—and right now!—hold me tight!
    just the way you promised.
Now comfort me so I can live, really live;
    your revelation is the tune I dance to.
Let the fast-talking tricksters be exposed as frauds;
    they tried to sell me a bill of goods,
    but I kept my mind fixed on your counsel.
Let those who fear you turn to me
    for evidence of your wise guidance.
And let me live whole and holy, soul and body,
    so I can always walk with my head held high.

TRUTH: “I can see now, God, that your decisions are right; your testing has taught me what’s true and right.”

EPILOGUE:  Randy became a teacher.  I went back to college and finished my degree in education and became a teacher.  As time passed and our kids grew, God led first Randy then me a few years later to leave our comfortable teaching positions, that we loved and worked hard to attain, to work full time in the ministry of helping people see God for who He really is…One to be trusted…God, who sent His One and Only Son to save us because of His love for us.  Ah, now I see, now I get it, Lord.  YOU knew all along what You created us to be and do.  Our response is to follow.

“When they see me waiting, expecting your Word, those who fear you will take heart and be glad.  I can see now, God, that your decisions are right; your testing has taught me what’s true and right.”  Psalm 119

Proverb 1:7, The Message

WISDOM: “Start with God—the first step in learning is bowing down to God; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning.”

         
Abba Father,

What a mess we can be in waiting! Thank you for your perfect patience with us when we are imperfectly impatient!  We are frustrated easily when we don’t get our own way and are blind to what You are working on that is better for us.  Thank you for opening our eyes to see your glory at work with ears to hear your voice above all others throughout our lives.  We don’t deserve your favor of grace, but You still provide.  Thank you for your guidance and understanding.  Thank you for saving us from ourselves, our poor, ungrateful attitudes and stubborn dispositions when being tested.  Thank you for teaching in the trials and giving us your message in our messes.  Thank you for your loving faithfulness.  Truly, GREAT is your faithfulness!  To YOU be all glory, honor and praise!

In Jesus Name, Amen

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GOD IS GOOD

Posted on February 15, 2021 by randscallawayffm

The emphasis in this psalm is on what is good in the life of the believer. The Hebrew word tob is used six times in these eight verses and can be translated good, pleasant, beneficial, precious, delightful, and right. God does what is good because God is good and because what He does is “according to his word” and His Word is good. Neither His character nor His Word will ever change, so, “God is good all the time.”

Playing in the background of our psalm is “Good, Good Father” by Chris Tomlin…let’s worship God and thank Him for being the Source of all the is Good!

Oh, I’ve heard a thousand stories of what they think You’re like
But I’ve heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night
And You tell me that You’re pleased and that I’m never alone

You’re a good, good Father
It’s who You are, it’s who You are, it’s who You are
And I’m loved by You
It’s who I am, it’s who I am, it’s who I am

Oh and I’ve seen many searching for answers far and wide
But I know we’re all searching for answers only You provide
‘Cause You know just what we need before we say a word

You’re a good, good Father
It’s who You are, it’s who You are, it’s who You are
And I’m loved by You
It’s who I am, it’s who I am, it’s who I am

Because You are perfect in all of Your ways
You are perfect in all of Your ways
You are perfect in all of Your ways…

Worship and Wisdom, Psalms and Proverbs

Part Eight.  Psalm 119:65-72, The Message

Be good to your servant, God;
    be as good as your Word.
Train me in good common sense;
    I’m thoroughly committed to living your way.
Before I learned to answer you, I wandered all over the place,
    but now I’m in step with your Word.
You are good, and the source of good;
    train me in your goodness.
The godless spread lies about me,
    but I focus my attention on what you are saying;
They’re bland as a bucket of lard,
    while I dance to the tune of your revelation.
My troubles turned out all for the best—
    they forced me to learn from your textbook.
Truth from your mouth means more to me
    than striking it rich in a gold mine.

TRUTH:  More than all the world has to offer us is God.  God has it all, created all and is all we need.  Who is for us not against us?  God.  Who is good and the source of good?  God.  Who loves us so much He sent His One and Only Son to save us?  God.  Who takes troubles in our lives and forms beauty from the ashes?  God.

Proverb 3:5-6, The Message

WISDOM:  “Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track.”

Abba Father,

You are so good to us because You are the Source of all that is Good.  We don’t know what Good is until we know You.  Thank you, Jesus, for all the work you did to show us the Goodness of God!  Thank you, Holy Spirit for always leading and guiding us to all Who is Good.  May your Good and your glory be seen in me today.  Thank you for wanting the best for us, standing with us not against us in a world so confused about what good really is.  Good is You.  You are Good.  You are God the Source of all that is Good.  I will trust in You alone for all that is Good for me.

In Jesus Name, Amen.

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YOUR LOVE FILLS THE EARTH!

Posted on February 14, 2021 by randscallawayffm

Playing in the background of our psalm this morning is an old song by Third Day, “Your Love, Oh Lord”.  Both psalm and song fill my soul with the love God has for me and for you who believe and love Him back. 

Your love, oh Lord
Reaches to the heavens
Your faithfulness stretches to the sky
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains
Your justice flows like the ocean’s tide

I will lift my voice
To worship You, my King
I will find my strength
In the shadow of your wings

Your love, oh Lord
Reaches to the heavens
Your faithfulness stretches to the sky
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains
Your justice flows like the ocean’s tide

I will lift my voice
To worship You, my King
I will find my strength
In the shadow of your wings

I will find my strength
In the shadow of your wings

I will lift my voice
To worship You, my King
I will find my strength
In the shadow of your wings

I will lift my voice
I will lift my voice
To worship You, my King

I will find my strength
I will find my strength
In the shadow of your wings

Your love, oh Lord
Reaches to the heavens
Your faithfulness stretches to the sky

Wisdom and Worship, Psalms and Proverbs

Part Eight – Psalm 119:57-64, The Message

Because you have satisfied me, God, I promise
    to do everything you say.
I beg you from the bottom of my heart: smile,
    be gracious to me just as you promised.
When I took a long, careful look at your ways,
    I got my feet back on the trail you blazed.
I was up at once, didn’t drag my feet,
    was quick to follow your orders.
The wicked hemmed me in—there was no way out—
    but not for a minute did I forget your plan for me.
I get up in the middle of the night to thank you;
    your decisions are so right, so true—I can’t wait till morning!
I’m a friend and companion of all who fear you,
    of those committed to living by your rules.
Your love, God, fills the earth!
    Train me to live by your counsel.

TRUTH:  Your love, God, fills the earth!  Train me to live by your counsel.  God is our greatest joy (vv. 61-64). It should be the Christian’s greatest joy to know God, love Him, hear His voice, and obey His will. Praying to Him and praising Him should be more refreshing to us than sleep. Being with His people should satisfy our hearts, and we should see the love and glory of God in all of creation. Whether we are lying on our bed at midnight, meditating on His Word, fellowshipping with God’s people, or taking a walk in God’s glorious creation, we love God, listen to Him, and thank Him.

Proverb 3:3-4, The Message

WISDOM: “Don’t lose your grip on Love and Loyalty. Tie them around your neck; carve their initials on your heart. Earn a reputation for living well in God’s eyes and the eyes of the people.”

Abba Father,

Help me to love others like you love me.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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HANG ON TO GOD’S WORD FOR DEAR LIFE!

Posted on February 13, 2021 by randscallawayffm

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” –Jesus  (John 16:33)

TRUTH:  Bad times will come as often as good times.  What words do we remember when we come to the end of ropes, become overwhelmed by life or cope with an unexpected repair that will break the bank?  When we see a loved one fall back into harmful addiction when we thought they had it under control, what words do we fall back on for strength and help?  When peace is gone and worry sets in like a cancer, what are the words that soothe the soul to set us free in faith once more? What wise words do we remember, cling to, and hang on to for dear life when the bottom as fallen out of a project you spent years in building or in a failed relationship who was dear to you?  What words of comfort do we remember when we experience an expected loss?

What words have we turned to in this pandemic?  Have we become bitter or better?

I remember my mom (who was told by her mom) telling me as a child the importance of memorizing passages of God’s Word.  “You’ll never know when you will need it, so pack it away in your mind.  At just the right time, when you need it most, you will recall God’s Word and it will help you and those around you.”  I have never forgotten those wise words.  It is God’s Holy Spirit, promised by Jesus, who brings what we have learned to the surface in trying times as well as in good times!

Our grow group ladies have asked me more than once how do you just pull scripture out of your head at the right time like you do?  I had parents and grandparents who taught me well.  In fact, I thank God for them right now at this moment.  As a grandparent, I am comforted and strengthened but what little I know coming forth at this moment to help me now.  I am encouraged at what I am still learning.  It takes a life time to learn and grow into an intimate growing relationship with Jesus.  It takes all we’ve got to sit under the teaching of His Word so we will remember.  I followed this wise advice, not to become a scholar but because I am weak without God’s Word tucked away in my heart, mind and soul.

I compare this learning to having fully stocked shelves when a snowstorm hits.  Because we stored up daily needs, we can quickly access what we need to stay alive!

The greatest discovery for me is that the more I learn God’s Word, the more excited I am to learn more!  This is an addiction in my life that I will continue!  God’s Word is nourishment to my hungry soul in good times and bad.  His Word is a love letter to my tender heart.  His Word frees my mind of worry that brings me down and gives me peace no matter what the circumstance. 

Friends, I want to be better, not bitter in this life as I prepare for life eternal with God.

We must remember that the basic theme of Psalm 119 is the practical use of the Word of God in the life of the believer. When you consider that the writer probably did not have a complete Old Testament, let alone a complete Bible, this emphasis is both remarkable and important. Christian believers today own complete Bibles, yet how many of us say that they love God’s Word and get up at night or early in the morning to read it and meditate on it? 

How many Christian believers ignore the Old Testament Scriptures or read the Old Testament in a careless manner? Yet here was a man who rejoiced in the Old Testament Scriptures–which was the only Word of God he had–and considered God’s Word his “food” and his greatest wealth! His love for the Word of God puts today’s believers to shame.

If the psalmist with his limited knowledge and resources could live a godly and victorious life feeding on the Old Testament, how much more ought Christians today live for the Lord. After all, we have the entire Bible before us and two millennia of church history behind us!

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”  Psalm 119:11, NIV

Worship and Wisdom, Psalm and Proverbs

Part Seven

Psalm 119:49-54, The Message

49-56 Remember what you said to me, your servant—
    I hang on to these words for dear life!
These words hold me up in bad times;
    yes, your promises rejuvenate me.
The haters hate me without mercy,
    but I don’t budge from your revelation.
I watch for your ancient landmark words,
    and know I’m on the right track.
But when I see the wicked ignore your directions,
    I’m beside myself with anger.
I set your instructions to music
    and sing them as I walk this pilgrim way.
I meditate on your name all night, God,
    treasuring your revelation, O God.
Still, I walk through a rain of derision
    because I live by your Word and counsel.

TRUTH: “These words hold me up in bad times; yes, your promises rejuvenate me.”

Proverb 3:5-6, The Message

WISDOM: “Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track.”

Our Father,

Hallowed be your Name.  Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  Be in every detail of our lives today.  Show us Your Ways in Your Word.  We  understand enough to live a life pleasing to You.  Help us live this life well done. Help us recall Your Word when we need it most.  Your Word IS a light to our path.  Your Word never changes the rules for living a life that is best for us!  Help us to be better, not bitter in this ever changing, fickle world.  Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.  Lead us not into temptations but deliver us from all evil.  For nothing, absolutely nothing is too hard for You.  To You be all glory, honor and praise!  Abide in me while I cling to You and Your Word.  I will sing Your praises all day long!  I’m singing your word now…

In Jesus Name, Amen

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LOVE SHAPED LIFE

Posted on February 12, 2021 by randscallawayffm

Many years ago, I was a first grade teacher.  It was fun, hard, exhausting and exhilarating all at the same time.  Our first graders tested our patience; then seconds later loved us beyond what we expected.  We daily got cards or slips of paper with hearts and words of love given to us from these little ones.

I was also a teacher advisor for the new first grad teacher across the hall from me.  One day, around Valentines Day, she rushed over with another dilemma that wasn’t taught in college text books.  Mrs. Callaway, I need your help!  So, I quickly gave my class instructions, opened the door so I could hear my class working and went to the hallway.  It seems one of the little girls in her class came to her and said, “Daddy taught me how to make love!” The little girl was so proud and wants to teach the class!  The young teacher was horrified and frantic, thinking the worst.  She said, “I can’t do this”, asking me how to handle this delicate situation. 

“Relax”, I told her.  Ask her to come into the hall with a smile on your face so she knows she is not in trouble.  Then we will let her tell her story about love.  The young teacher brought her out into the hall.  I leaned down to this happy little girl and said, “Tell us how you were told to make love, we want to learn, too”.  I was smiling the whole time for I had a strong feeling this was not what the young teacher thought it was. 

While motioning with her hands, the little girl began, “Well, Daddy said to begin with ‘I’ then draw a heart and end with ‘you’.”  “I heart you”.  “I love you!”  “That’s how you make love!”, the little girl beamed with a big smile on her face.  I thanked her for teaching us about love and told her that would be a good thing to teach the class!  The young teacher relaxed her body and giggled.  I reminded her not to assume the worst just ask questions.  I was smiling and giggling all the way back to my classroom who had stayed on task while I was gone.

The Psalmist begins with a request from God asking him to have a love-shaped life that begins with His love in him.  How many times have we asked our Daddy, our Father God in heaven to teach us how to make love be first in our lives?  John the gospel writer, says, “We love God because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) So, we learn that love begins with God.  “Knowing God, we know Love, real Love”, John relates.  John continues this train of thought with clarification;

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.”  1 John 4:7-12, NIV

Our very lives are shaped by His love in us.  It is in realizing the depth of His love for us and believing that He saved us from death through His Son, Jesus Christ who was the ultimate expression of God’s love for us, that we can love.  Love God. Love Others.  This is Love.  This is revolutionary in a world of hate led by the prince of darkness. 

I love you, Lord.  I (heart) love you, dear reader of this message of love to you.

Wisdom and Worship, Psalms and Proverbs

Part Six

Psalm 119:41-48, The Message

Let your love, God, shape my life
    with salvation, exactly as you promised;
Then I’ll be able to stand up to mockery
    because I trusted your Word.
Don’t ever deprive me of truth, not ever—
    your commandments are what I depend on.
Oh, I’ll guard with my life what you’ve revealed to me,
    guard it now, guard it ever;
And I’ll stride freely through wide open spaces
    as I look for your truth and your wisdom;
Then I’ll tell the world what I find,
    speak out boldly in public, unembarrassed.
I cherish your commandments—oh, how I love them!—
    relishing every fragment of your counsel.

TRUTH:  Lord, shape my life into a heart that loves like you love me.  Your love stands up to all the world can dish out.  Show me your truth always in a world that lies.  I will tell the world of you love always.

Proverb 10:12, The Message

WISDOM:  Hatred starts fights, but love pulls a quilt over the bickering.

Abba Father,

Thank you for loving us so much that you sent Jesus to lay down His life for us.  Thank you, Jesus for completing your mission to seek and to save the lost because of your love for us.  Thank you for laying your life down in place of mine for my sins.  There are not enough words to tell you how much I love you so I will try to show it each day with my life.  Help me to love deeply like you love us.  Help me to realize your love for me deeper still for then my love for others grows.  Thank you, Lord, God of heaven and earth.

In Jesus Name, Amen.  I believe.

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A STARVING SOUL IS A SOUL READY TO BE FILLED!

Posted on February 11, 2021 by randscallawayffm

I’M STARVED!  How many times in our lifetimes have we said this in all kinds of voices from whispers to shouting?  How many times have we come to a table of goodies with a warning to all that we are ready to be fed?  Let’s think of our starving times for a moment.  We get to this point of starving when we have been too busy to eat, put off our regular times to feed ourselves because of all kinds of interruptions or couldn’t eat because of a medical issue.  When our stomachs get empty enough to let us know it needs to be fed, we can even get “hangry”, a form of dissatisfaction, angry coupled with needing food in our bellies.  We physically feel hunger.

Our soul functions in pretty much the same way.  A starving soul who puts off being with God, the Father, missing the intimacy of a growing relationship with our Creator who loved us first is spiritually hungry.  We starve ourselves from the One and Only who calms our souls, forgives all our sins because of Jesus, gives us peace and encouragement, taking away all fear and replacing it with the nourishment of his love, grace and mercy.  What a Table God sets before starving souls!

I think of this as the Psalmist lays out the benefits of coming to God’s Table of all that we need to be fed well so that we grow in His character, walk in His ways in relationship with Him while learning to love like He loves us. 

The writer knows the Menu well and asks for one of each: 

Lessons for living

Insight to do His will

Guidance down God’s road

Wisdom (skills for living)

Renewed energy

Relentless focus to avoid distracters  

“See how hungry I am for your counsel; preserve my life through your righteous ways!  Yes, Lord, I’ll have what he’s having!  One of each, please.  Feed my soul this morning.

Worship and Wisdom, Psalms and Proverbs

Part Five

Psalm 119:33-40, The Message

God, teach me lessons for living
    so I can stay the course.
Give me insight so I can do what you tell me—
    my whole life one long, obedient response.
Guide me down the road of your commandments;
    I love traveling this freeway!
Give me an appetite for your words of wisdom,
    and not for piling up loot.
Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets,
    invigorate me on the pilgrim way.
Affirm your promises to me—
    promises made to all who fear you.
Deflect the harsh words of my critics—
    but what you say is always so good.
See how hungry I am for your counsel;
    preserve my life through your righteous ways!

TRUTH:  God feeds our souls daily when we come to Him hungry.

Image result for Proverbs 10:3, images

Proverb 10:3, The Message

WISDOM:  God won’t starve an honest soul, but he frustrates the appetites of the wicked.

Abba Father,

Your promises are true.  You feed us like no one else can.  You are the Bread of Life eternal.  You are the Living Water that quenches our thirst for Life everlasting.  You are God, the Sustainer and Nourishment for our souls.  Feed us this morning with all you know we will need for this day.  Give me your daily manna of wisdom, insight and understanding for my soul.  I’m starving and ready to be filled.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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SHOW ME HOW

Posted on February 10, 2021 by randscallawayffm

Growing up in Oklahoma, with both parents working during the day, I spent a lot of time with my grandparents on their farm just outside the city.  Instead of a babysitter, mom or dad would get up earlier on their work days and meet Grandpa Lacquement half way so my brother and I could spend the day on the farm while they worked.  I applaud my parents for making this extra effort for us. 

My love for my grandparents grew to awe and wonder for how they worked a farm with all kinds of animals from peacocks to cattle, goats and sheep.  There was the chicken house that gave them chicken and eggs to eat and sell.  (No, I don’t know which came first!) There were the side businesses of raising and selling Siamese kittens, parakeets and cockatiels.  There was always a pony in the back lot for grandkids to ride.  It wasn’t a glamourous farm, my grandparents barely made ends meet at the end of each month, but it was a place for kids to learn to fish in the ponds, while avoiding the cows, with plenty of land to roam and explore. 

Grandpa’s real trade that brought in extra money was carpentry.  He had the gift to understand exactly what a client wanted then build a cabinet or add on a room to fit their specifications. 

I thought Grandpa and Grandma could do anything.  I was in awe of how Grandma cooked.  Fresh biscuits every morning for breakfast and lots of fried chicken on Sundays.  I followed Grandpa around wherever he went and hammered him with questions daily.  “How do you do that?”  “Why do peacocks spread their wings like that?”  “Can you teach me to fish like that?” “Can I build something from your scraps of wood?” 

The constant question was, “Can you show me how to do that.”  Now that I am grown, have grandkids of my own, I remember my roots.  I learned the ways Grandpa and Grandma read the Bible and prayed EVERY day, asking the same question of God that I asked them so often.  “Lord, teach me.  Show me Your ways.”  God did and they obeyed.

Because of my loving, intimate relationship with Grandpa, I wanted to be where he was, learn what he knew and do what he did daily.  Because of my loving, intimate relationship with God, my Father, through Jesus Christ, His Son, I want to be in His Holy Presence, hearing His voice, learning His ways and obeying Him quickly for God loves me even more than my Grandpa could love me.  Mind.  Blown.

Lord, I’ll run the course you lay out for me if you’ll just show me how.

Worship and Wisdom, Psalms and Proverbs

Part 4

Psalm 119:25-32, The Message

I’m feeling terrible—I couldn’t feel worse!
    Get me on my feet again. You promised, remember?
When I told my story, you responded;
    train me well in your deep wisdom.
Help me understand these things inside and out
    so I can ponder your miracle-wonders.
My sad life’s dilapidated, a falling-down barn;
    build me up again by your Word.
Barricade the road that goes Nowhere;
    grace me with your clear revelation.
I choose the true road to Somewhere,
    I post your road signs at every curve and corner.
I grasp and cling to whatever you tell me;
    God, don’t let me down!
I’ll run the course you lay out for me
    if you’ll just show me how.

TRUTH:  God will show us how to live His way.  Jesus is the Way, Truth and Life.  It all begins with believing in Jesus then asking God to show us how to live His ways, our best life here, constantly growing more in love with Him while maturing in His character.

Proverb 4:1-5, The Message

Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction;
    pay attention and gain understanding.
2 I give you sound learning,
    so do not forsake my teaching.
3 For I too was a son to my father,
    still tender, and cherished by my mother.
4 Then he taught me, and he said to me,
    “Take hold of my words with all your heart;
    keep my commands, and you will live.
5 Get wisdom, get understanding;
    do not forget my words or turn away from them.

WISDOM:  Get wisdom and don’t run from it.  Embrace wisdom and seek to understand.  Engage in learning who God is and how He works in our lives.

Abba Father,

Thank you for taking me back to my roots of growing up with people who knew you intimately and who were engaged in your ways.  They sought wisdom from you daily and now I do.  I seek to understand this world only enough to help others find and follow you.  People wander around without knowing your everlasting love and care for them.  Show me your ways and how you work so I can imitate what you do.  Help me to love others like you love me.  Teach me your ways, Lord and help me to apply the lessons learned.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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