For you shall go out in joy, and be led back in peace…Isaiah 55:12a New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Yesterday I suggested prayers for the homes of those who are “sheltering in place.” But not everyone can stay home. To those whose jobs provide necessary community support, a big Thank You. We couldn’t get through this…
Category: Open My Eyes
Insights in Scripture
A Psalm for These Days
Excerpts from Psalm 31 Common English Bible (CEB) I take refuge in you, Lord. Please never let me be put to shame. Rescue me by your righteousness!2 Listen closely to me! Deliver me quickly; be a rock that protects me; be a strong fortress that saves me!3 You are definitely my rock and my fortress. Guide me and lead me for…
Psalm 28: 6-9
6 I praise you, Lord, for answering my prayers.7 You are my strong shield, and I trust you completely.You have helped me, and I will celebrate and thank you in song. 8 You give strength to your people, Lord, and you save and protect your chosen ones.9 Come save us and bless us. Be our shepherd and always carry us in…
Lost and Found
Jesus did not give the parables to teach us how to live. He gave them, I believe, to correct our notions about who God is and who God loves. Philip Yancey Parable of the Lost Sheep Even with 100 sheep, the Shepherd immediately realized one was missing. Perhaps it had been distracted, wandered away, or…
Psalm 27, Part 2
The one thing I want from God, the thing I seek most of all, is the privilege of meditating in his Temple, living in his presence every day of my life, delighting in his incomparable perfections and glory. There I’ll be when troubles come. He will hide me. He will set me on a high…
Psalm 27, Part 1
The Lord is my light and my salvation; I will fear no one.The Lord protects me from all danger; I will never be afraid.2 When evil people attack me and try to kill me, they stumble and fall.3 Even if a whole army surrounds me, I will not be afraid;even if enemies attack me, I will still trust God.7 Hear me, Lord, when…
What is “Enough?”
The study guide read, “If it turns out that God is real and you can ask Him one question, what would it be?” The small group offered answers, but one stood out. “I would ask if I have done enough. If I have been good enough.” In spite of knowing Jesus most of my life,…
Psalm 25: 11-22 TLB
11 But Lord, my sins! How many they are. Oh, pardon them for the honor of your name.12 Where is the man who fears the Lord? God will teach him how to choose the best.13 He shall live within God’s circle of blessing, and his children shall inherit the earth.14 Friendship with God is reserved for those who reverence…
Psalm 25:1-10 Living Bible
To you, O Lord, I pray. 2 Don’t fail me, Lord, for I am trusting you. Don’t let my enemies succeed. Don’t give them victory over me. 3 None of those who have faith in God will ever be disgraced for trusting him. But all who harm the innocent shall be defeated.4 Show me the path where I should…
Prayer for Victory
Psalm 20: 1-5 New Life Version (NLV) May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble! May the name of the God of Jacob keep you safe. 2 May He send you help from the house of God, and give you strength from Zion. 3 May He remember all your gifts of grain given on the…