"O Little Town of Bethlehem"

 

This story from “Then Sings My Soul: Special Edition” by Robert J. Morgan. Scripture and commentary for each verse provided by Carol.

“At nearly six feet six, weighing three hundred pounds, Phillips Brooks cast a long shadow. He was a native Bostonian, the ninth generation of distinguished Puritan stock,, who entered the Episcopalian ministry and pastored with great Power in Philadelphia and in Boston. His sermons were topical rather than expositional, and he’s been criticized for thinness of doctrine. Nonetheless, he’s considered one of America’s greatest preachers. His delivery came in lightening bursts; he felt he had more to say than time in which to say it.

“While at Philadelphia’s Holy Trinity Church, Phillips, thirty, visited the Holy Land. On December 24, 1865, traveling by horseback from Jerusalem, he attended a five-hour Christmas Eve service at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. He was deeply moved.

“'I remembered standing in the old church in Bethlehem,’ he later said, ‘close to the spot where Jesus was born, when the whole church was ringing hour after hour with splendid hymns of praise to God, how again and again it seemed as if I could hear voices I knew well, telling each other of the Wonderful Night of the Savior’s birth.’

“Three years later, as he prepared for the Christmas season of 1867, he wanted to compose an original Christmas hymn for the children to sing during their annual program. Recalling his magical night in Bethlehem, he wrote a little hymn of five stanzas and handed the words to his organist, Lewis Redner, saying, ‘Lewis, why not write a new tune for my poem. If it is a good tune, I will name it ‘St. Lewis’ after you.’

“Brooks was so pleased with the tune that he did indeed name it for his organist, changing the spelling to St. Louis, so as not  to embarrass him.”

Verse One

“O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see Thee lie!

Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.

Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light;

The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.”

Isaiah 60:19

“No longer will you need the sun to shine by day, nor the moon to give its light by night, for the Lord your God will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory."

Godsbless.ing: This verse is a comforting reminder of the eternal presence of God’s light in our lives. It conveys the idea that no matter how dark our paths may seem, God’s light will always shine upon us, guiding and illuminating our way. The image of God as an everlasting light signifies His eternal presence, love, and protection, providing us with hope and reassurance in times of darkness and despair . . . “But the Lord will be your everlasting light” highlights the eternal and unchanging nature of God’s presence and guidance. Unlike the sun and moon, which have their cycles, God’s light is constant and enduring. “And your God will be your glory” indicates that God’s presence not only illuminates but also brings honor and splendor to His people.

Verse Two

“For Christ is born of Mary; and, gathered all above,

While mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wond'ring love.

O morning stars, together proclaim the holy birth,

And praises sing to God the King, and peace to men on earth.”

Job 38:7

“As the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy.”

Enduringword.com:  This tells us that angelic beings (here called morning stars and sons of God) did in fact witness the creation of the earth; and they rejoiced at the glory, power, and wisdom of God in the creation.

Godsbless.ing: The mention of angels rejoicing at creation serves as a beautiful image of the wonder and joy that permeate the universe when God brings something new into existence. It paints a picture of celestial beings celebrating the work of God, showcasing a harmonious relationship between the divine and the heavenly hosts. This verse invites us to consider the wonder and beauty of the world around us, prompting us to join in the chorus of praise and gratitude for the marvelous works of God. Let us reflect on this verse to remind us of the majesty of our Creator and the awe-inspiring nature of His creations.

Verse Three

“How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is giv'n!

So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of His heav'n.

No ear may hear His coming, but in this world of sin,

Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in.”

Matthew 5:5 

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”

Godsbless.ing: This verse speaks to the concept of meekness. Being meek in biblical terms does not mean being weak or passive, but rather, having strength under control. It involves humility, gentleness, and a willingness to submit to God’s will. The promise of inheriting the earth reflects the idea that those who are humble and obedient will ultimately receive God’s blessings and rewards. This teaching emphasizes the importance of recognizing our dependence on God and trusting in His plan for our lives.

John 3:34

“For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit.”

Enduringword.com: John spoke both of Jesus (who had the Holy Spirit without measure) and prophetically of the New Covenant (which featured a true outpouring of the Holy Spirit). For those joined to the Messiah through the New Covenant, there is as much of the Spirit as needed, given without measure.

Verse Four

“O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray;

Cast out our sin and enter in; be born in us today.

We hear the Christmas angels, the great glad tidings tell;

O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel!”

1 Peter 1:23

“For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring Word of God.”

Studylight.org, Contending for the Faith: This phrase is from one Greek word, anagennao, meaning "to produce again, so that he lives a new life and one conformed to the will of God" (Thayer 36-1-313)

Biblerepository.com: This verse indicates the transformation that can occur within us through God’s Word. When we think about being “born again,” we must understand that this transformation is not merely a physical change; it’s a spiritual revival that opens the door to eternal life through our faith. It signifies a cleansing from past sins and a turning toward a life filled with purpose and divine connection.

By His Grace . . .

"O Come, All Ye Faithful"

 

This story from “Then Sings My Soul: Special Edition” by Robert J. Morgan. Scripture verse and commentary provided by Carol.

“John Francis Wade, author of this hymn, was hounded out of England in 1745. He was a Roman Catholic layman in Lancashire; but because of persecution arising from the Jacobite rebellion, streams of Catholics fled to France and Portugal, where communities of English-speaking Catholics appeared.

“But how could he, a refugee, support himself? In those days, the printing of musical scores was cumbersome, and copying them by hand was an art. In the famous Roman Catholic College and Ministry Center in Douay, France, Wade taught music and became renowned as a copyist of musical scores. His work was exquisite.

“In 1743, Wade, thirty-two, produced a copy of a Latin Christmas carol beginning with the phrase 'Adeste Fidelis, Laeti triumphantes.' At one time historians believed he had simply discovered an ancient hymn by an unknown author, but most scholars now believe Wade himself composed the lyrics. Seven original hand-copied manuscripts of this Latin hymn have been found, all of them bearing Wade’s signature.

“As timed passed, English Catholics began returning to Britain, and they carried Wade’s Christmas carol with them. One day an Anglican minister named Rev. Frederick Oakeley, who preached at Margaret Street Chapel in London, came across Wade’s Latin Christmas carol. Being deeply moved, he translated it into English for Margaret Street Chapel. The first line of Oakeley’s translation said, ‘Ye Faithful, Approach Ye.’

“Later, Oakeley came up with a simpler, more vigorous, ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful, Joyful and Triumphant!’’’

Verse One

“O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant,

O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem!

Come, and behold Him, born the King of angels!”

Psalm 30:4

“Sing the praises of the Lord, you His faithful people; praise His holy name.”

Enduringword.com: Remembering the great works of God did not only cause David to praise, but also caused him to compel others to praise Him. It was fitting, because they also were saints of His, His special people . . .  “He felt that he could not praise God enough himself, and therefore he would enlist the hearts of others.” (Spurgeon)

Psalm 149:5

“Let His faithful people rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds.”

Godsbless.ing: The act of praising and acknowledging God’s holiness can serve as a beacon of tranquility and perspective. Gratitude and worship possess the transformative power to reshape our outlook, redirecting our focus from the mundane and negative towards the divine and positive.

Verse Two

“God of God, Light of Light,

lo, He abhors not the virgin's womb;

Very God, begotten not created.”

2 Corinthians 4:6

“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,' made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”

Biblehub.com, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary: As light was the beginning of the first creation; so, in the new creation, the light of the Spirit is His first work upon the soul. 

Godsbless.ing: The light of the gospel can serve as a guiding beacon, leading you towards a fulfilling and meaningful existence. It has the power to penetrate even the most hardened hearts, softening them with its message of grace and redemption. Allowing the light of the gospel to shine in your heart may lead you to experience a profound sense of peace, joy, and purpose that transcends earthly concerns. Embrace the light of the gospel, let it brighten your inner world, and watch as it transforms you from the inside out.

Psalm 36:9

“For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light.”

Studylight.org, Gill’s Exposition of the Whole Bible: God is light itself, the Father of lights, and the former of it in every sense; in the light of His countenance, and the discoveries of His love, they that trust in Him see light, or enjoy comfort; and in the light of His Son, Jesus Christ, the sun of righteousness and light of the world, they see the face of God, and enjoy His favor, and behold the glory and excellency of Christ Himself.

 Verse Three

“Sing, choirs of angels; sing in exultation;

Sing, all ye citizens of heav'n above!

Glory to God, all glory in the highest!”

Psalm 103:20

“Praise the Lord, you His angels, you mighty ones who do His bidding, who obey His word.”

Biblehub.com, Matthew Poole’s Commentary: Angels, which, though glorious creatures, are but His ministers and messengers, as the word signifies. And inviting the angels to bless God, He quickens men to the same duty, as having more dependence upon God, and, obligation to Him.

Enduringword.com: David began the psalm by telling his own soul to bless the Lord, but he knew the praise and honor to God should go beyond what he could give. It should extend all the way to the angels, and David boldly told them to also bless the Lord, who excel in strength, who do His word: The angels are strong and obedient, but even they should bless the Lord, giving Him praise and honor.

Philippians 3:20

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Contending for the Faith: Christians belong to a heavenly commonwealth whose government is in heaven. As citizens of the heavenly kingdom, their lives are to reflect an adherence to the authority and power manifested in the Divine Word.

Godsbless.ing: This verse from Philippians reminds us as believers that our true citizenship is in heaven, not on this earth. It calls us to remember that our primary identity and allegiance belong to God’s kingdom, which is eternal and perfect. Recognizing our heavenly citizenship encourages us to live our lives with an eternal perspective, focusing on the values and principles of God’s Kingdom rather than those of the world. We eagerly await our Savior from heaven, reminding us of the hope and anticipation we have in Jesus Christ’s return. This hope should motivate us to live faithfully and obediently, knowing that one day we will be united with our Savior for eternity. It prompts us to constantly seek Him, to grow in our relationship with Him, and to share His love and message with others.

Verse Four

“Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning;

Jesus, to Thee be all glory giv'n!

Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing!”

Luke 2:6-7

“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”

Godsbless.ing: As they searched for a place to stay, they found that the inns were all full. With no other options, they sought refuge in a humble stable. It was in this lowly setting that Mary gave birth to Jesus, the Son of God. The surroundings were simple and rustic, with the sounds of animals and the soft glow of a manger illuminating the space where the newborn baby lay. This significant event marked the fulfillment of prophecies and the beginning of a new era for humanity.

Psalm 72:19

“Praise be to His glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen and Amen.”

Studylight.org, Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible: This prayer was especially appropriate at the close of a psalm designed to celebrate the glorious reign of the Messiah. Under that reign the earth will be, in fact, filled with the glory of God; the world will be a world of glory. Assuredly all who love God, and who love mankind, all who desire that God may be honored, and that the world may be blessed and happy, will unite in this fervent prayer, and echo the hearty “Amen and amen” of the psalmist.

Refrain

“O come, let us adore Him;

O come, let us adore Him;

O come, let us adore Him, Christ, the Lord!”

1 Chronicles 29:11

“Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is yours, O Lord, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as the one who is over all things.” (New Living Translation)

Godsbless.ing: Oh, what a powerful and awe-inspiring scripture this is! 1 Chronicles 29:11-13 beautifully captures the essence of God’s majesty and omnipotence. As teachers on a journey of faith and understanding, let’s delve into the profound meaning behind these verses. These verses remind us of God’s unrivaled greatness and power as the ultimate Ruler of the universe. It emphasizes that everything in heaven and on earth belongs to Him, showcasing His sovereignty and authority over all creation. It highlights God’s generosity and benevolence towards us, demonstrating His gracious nature and boundless love . . . Let these verses serve as a reminder of God’s unwavering presence and provision in our lives, igniting a sense of reverence and awe for our Creator.

 By His Grace . . . 

"Joy to the World!"

This devotion story from “Then Sings My Soul: Special Edition” by Robert J. Morgan. Scripture and commentary for each verse provided by Carol.

Until Isaac Watts came along, most of the singing in British churches was from the Psalms of David. The church—especially the Church of Scotland—had labored over the Psalms with great effort and scholarship, translating them into poems with rhyme and rhythm suitable for singing.

As a young man in Southampton, Isaac had become dissatisfied with the quality of singing, and he keenly felt the limitations of being able to only sing these psalms. So he “invented” the English hymn.

He did not, however, neglect the Psalms. In 1719, he published a unique hymnal—one in which he had translated, interpreted, and paraphrased the Old Testament Psalms through the eyes of New Testament faith. He called it simply, “The Psalms of David Imitated in the Language of the New Testament.” Taking various psalms, he studies them from the perspective of Jesus and the New Testament, and then formed them into verses for singing.

“I have rather expressed myself as I may suppose David would have done if he lived in the days of Christianity,” Watts explained, “and by this means, perhaps, I have sometimes hit upon the true intent of the Spirit of God in those verses farther and clearer than David himself could ever discover.”

Watts’s interpretation of Psalm 98, which says, "Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth" (verse 4). As he read Psalm 98, Isaac pondered the real reason for shouting joyfully to the Lord—The Messiah has come to redeem us. The result has been a timeless carol that has brightened our Christmases for nearly three years.”

Verse One

“Joy to the world, the Lord is come,

Let earth receive her King.

Let every heart prepare Him room,

And heaven and nature sing, And heaven and nature sing,

And heaven, and heaven and nature sing.”

Luke 1:68

“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them.”

Godsbless.ing: Isn’t it truly awe-inspiring to see Zechariah’s gratitude and praise for God sending a Savior to redeem His people? We witness the profound significance of God’s ultimate act of love and mercy towards humanity in this verse. Through the Savior, God displays His unwavering commitment to His people, offering them a path to redemption and salvation. God’s grace and the fulfillment of His promise to rescue and restore His people remind us of the profound impact as we reflect on this verse. It serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and His profound love for all of us. Zechariah’s praise encapsulates a deep sense of gratitude and reverence for the Savior who brings hope and salvation to a world in need. Let us ponder the profound message of redemption and salvation conveyed in this verse as we appreciate the magnitude of God’s love.

Verse Two

“Joy to the world, the Savior reigns,

Let men their songs employ.

While fields and floods, Rocks, hills and plains,

Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.”

Exodus 15:18

“The Lord reigns for ever and ever.”

Biblehub.com, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary: This song is the most ancient we know of. It is a holy song, to the honor of God, to exalt his name, and celebrate his praise, and his only, not in the least to magnify any man. Holiness to the Lord is in every part of it. It may be considered as typical, and prophetical of the final destruction of the enemies of the church. Happy the people whose God is the Lord.

Verse Three

“No more let sins and sorrows grow,

Nor thorns infest the ground.

He comes to make his blessings flow,

Far as the curse is found,

Far as the curse is found, far as the curse is found.”

Hebrew 10:17

“Then he adds: 'Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more.'”

Biblerepository.com. This passage is a powerful statement about God’s forgiveness. It assures us that when we confess our sins and turn to Him, He chooses to forget our wrongdoings completely. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were made regularly to atone for sins. However, these sacrifices were only temporary measures. With the coming of Christ, this verse highlights the shift from the old covenant to a new one. Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross was sufficient, and now, when we accept Him, our sins are fully forgiven. This is a significant truth; it brings us freedom from guilt and shame.

Verse Four

“He rules the world with truth and grace,

And makes the nations prove,

The glories of his righteousness,

And wonders of his love,

And wonders of His love, And wonders of His love.”

2 Chronicles 20:6

“And said: ‘Lord, the God of our ancestors, are you not the God who is in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you.’”

Enduringword.com: Jehoshaphat began his great prayer by recognizing the power of Yahweh over heaven and all kingdoms of the nations. Other peoples believed in localized deities – as if the Moabites had their god, the Philistines their god, the Ammonites their god, and so on. Jehoshaphat recognized that the God of Israel was in fact the God of all kingdoms, of all nations, of all the earth and indeed of heaven itself.

Godsbless.ing: The phrase “rule over all the kingdoms of the nations” highlights God’s omnipotence. It’s an assertion that no earthly power, no matter how intimidating, stands outside God’s control. This universal dominion reassures believers that God’s authority is absolute and unchallenged . . . It’s not just that God rules; He has the power to change situations, to protect, and to deliver. This is a comforting truth, especially in times of personal or communal crisis.

By His Grace . . . 

I Love You, Lord

“A remote mobile home gleams faintly in the crisp Autumn sunrise. Within that metal refuge in the high deserts of central Oregon, a young mother is having a quiet time with the Lord. Her toddler is still asleep. Her husband is a full-time college student, and the couple is surviving on $400 per month. They have no home church, no friends nearby, and she does not drive.” Stacie Marshall

"’It was a very hopeless time, a very depressed time,’ Laurie Klein said. ‘I felt the poverty of my own life keenly at that point, both emotionally and physically.’

"That morning I was so empty, I knew I didn't have anything to offer Him. I asked if He would like to hear me sing .  .. if He would just give me something He would be in the mood to hear.’"

Such is the backdrop of Laurie Klein's classic praise song, "I Love You, Lord," written in 1974.

Laurie Klein, a native of Wisconsin, displayed musical talent and interest at a young age. Encouraged by her mother, she learned to play piano, autoharp, and guitar. She started writing songs at age 16, the first one titled “Loving Unconditionally.” At age 24, she met and married Bill Klein while at Central Oregon Community College. Their life was simple and difficult, as they started a family with no money to spare.

Isolated in the Oregon wilderness, Klein had no community, no nearby friends, and no local church body to call home. Making things worse, she did not drive, so she could not go visit friends or family who lived farther away than walking distance. Her loneliness drove her to invest more fully in her daily time of devotion to God. The song rose out of her daily quiet time in the morning before her toddler woke up.

Recognizing that the words had some merit, Klein quickly wrote them down. Later, she sang the song for her husband, who suggested she play it for a local pastor and some musicians

The song found its way to Jack Hayford’s Church on the Way in Van Nuys, California, and was recorded by several musicians of the budding Christian music scene, including Buck and Annie Herring (2nd Chapter of Acts). But its greatest exposure was on Maranatha! Music's Praise 4 in 1980. Since then, the song has “quietly made its way around the world.”

Klein describes herself as a “lifelong creative with a growing contemplative streak,” and notes that she has “switched hats more often than hobos in a vaudeville skit.” Currently, she “scribes” on her blog, lauriekleinscribe.com, which includes reflections on nature, beauty, and human experiences—all through the lens of an ongoing relationship with God.

The Kleins, now parents of two grown daughters, live in Dearpark, Washington. Both have served on staff at various churches over the years, but their focus these days is House of Mercy, through which Bill acts as consultant to worship leaders of various denominations. A sampling of their song writing, including a stunning version of "I Love You, Lord", is available on a 1996 independent recording called “All My Days.”

Now, Klein is more driven by a thirst for intimacy with God than ever. God has placed the phrase, "prepare Me a place" on her heart as a personal theme.

"We're called to prepare room for Him," Laurie explains. The heart of a worshiper becomes evident as she speaks. "We must be prepared to meet Him no matter who we're talking to or what we're doing, whether we're worshiping in church or worshiping with all the tasks that make up our day."

Klein said: "The most meaningful time that I ever heard anyone sing my song was in the fall of 2000 while my husband and I were in a Discipleship Training School. Late one night, in the dormitory, I heard a baby crying. I slipped down the hall to the outside of the door just to pray for the baby, that it would be able to sleep. As I was praying outside the door, I heard the mother singing a song, but the little one kept crying. She then began to sing 'I Love You, Lord,' and while she was singing, the baby fell asleep. The mother had no idea that the one who wrote the song was just outside the door."

Find a desert. Although Klein may not have many pleasant memories of central Oregon and 1974, what washed over this forlorn young woman should make any serious believer and music-lover wonder if he shouldn’t be hunting the desert more intentionally. What was it God said about ‘poor in spirit’ (Matthew 5:3), or about the desert (again, see Hosea 2:14). People see him there (Exodus 16:10), it’s where David sought Him (Psalm 63:1), it’s where he can transform the barren into the fertile (Isaiah 51:3), where He will make the desolate and sad joyful again (Jeremiah 33:9-11). From Moses (Ex. 7:30) to Jesus (Matthew 4), the barren place is an awaiting encounter with Him and a place where He can be present to chase away evil, despite what the surroundings look like. Spend some time in a desert, at least once.    

"Though it is a very simple song, it changed everything for me, and it still is changing life for me. When you are in a dark valley and the Lord gives you light, it makes all the difference, and you keep growing,” Klein said.

The words are worshipful and sweet. The melody is joyous and draws you into God’s presence. Together they make you feel in tune with God and enjoying praising Him in such a tender and special way.

Verse

“I love You, Lord, and I lift my voice,

To worship You, O my soul rejoice.

Take joy, my King, in what You hear,

May it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear.”

“I love You, Lord, and I lift my voice”

 Psalm 18:1

 “I love you, Lord, my strength.”

Explainingthebible.com: Psalm 18:1 is a beautiful declaration of one’s love and devotion to God. The psalmist is expressing not just an emotional connection, but a profound recognition of who God is in his life . . . By declaring his love for God, the psalmist invites us to consider our own love for God. Love for God manifests in several ways, including worship, obedience, prayer, and service to others. It calls for an authenticity that comes from recognizing God’s involvement in our lives, which develops a deeper appreciation and affection for Him . . . Love isn’t just a fleeting emotion; it’s about consistency, faithfulness, and dedication to God. This commitment sets the stage for a relationship that’s built on trust and surrender.

Psalm 5:3

“In the morning, Lord, You hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before You and wait expectantly.”

Godsbless.ing: David initiates his prayer by asking God to attentively listen to his words, highlighting the significance of verbalizing our prayers. This phrase underscores the intimate relationship between David and God, demonstrating that God is attentive to our spoken petitions . . . David implores God to ponder his innermost thoughts and reflections, emphasizing that prayer encompasses not only spoken words but also the meditations of the heart.

Psalm 119:149

“Hear my voice in accordance with your love; preserve my life, Lord, according to your laws.”

Explainingthebible.com: “Hear my voice,” represents a personal channel of communication. It’s a reminder of how we must actively pursue a relationship with God. We can come to Him with our deepest feelings, thoughts, and concerns. It’s about being brave enough to open our hearts and speak out. The acknowledgement of our vulnerability creates a space for comfort and connection.

“To worship You, O my soul rejoice”

Psalm 100:2

“Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.”

Biblehub.com, Barnes’ Notes on the Bible: In your worship, and in all your acts of obedience. Let there be joy in this service . . . Let it be a cheerful, happy service; let it be freely rendered, let it be an occasion of joy to the soul. The service of God is a source of the highest joy that man knows . . . Come before His presence with singing - As expressive of joy. So the birds sing; so nature rejoices; so should man - intelligent, redeemed, immortal man, be joyful.

Godsbless.ing: Is a verse that calls for joyful worship and service to the Lord, emphasizing the attitude and spirit with which we should approach our relationship with God. Psalm 100 is a psalm of thanksgiving, calling all the earth to worship the Lord with gladness. It sets the tone for a joyous and grateful approach to God, highlighting the importance of expressing our worship with a spirit of joy.

 Acts 2:26

“Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest in hope.”

Explainingthebible: This verse brings forth a profound truth about the joy and security that comes from trusting in God. When we reflect on this passage, we understand that having a relationship with God fills our hearts with gladness. It’s a reminder that our souls can find peace when we rely on Him. The use of the word “heart” hints at an inner feeling, suggesting that true joy originates from deep within us, resonating through our emotions . . . the phrase “my tongue rejoices” indicates that our expressions should reflect the joy we feel inside. When our hearts are filled with happiness, it naturally overflows into our words and actions. Our celebration of God’s goodness can inspire others to seek Him as well.

"Take joy, my King, in what You hear,"

John 9:31

"We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does His will."

Godsbless.ing: This verse serves as a reassuring and motivating reminder to believers about the power of prayer when it is accompanied by genuine worship and obedience to God's will. It highlights the reciprocal relationship between humans and the divine, emphasizing that God truly listens to the prayers of those who actively engage in worship and strive to align their actions with His teachers.

Psalm 90:14

“Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.”

Explainingthebible.com: By looking for God’s love in the morning, we cultivate an attitude of thankfulness. It encourages us to start our day not with complaints or negativity but with a heart full of gratitude for what God has done for us. Gratitude opens our eyes to see the countless blessings that God pours into our lives. This mindset of appreciation creates a ripple effect, affecting our interactions with others and how we approach our day-to-day responsibilities.

“May it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear.”

Psalm 55:19

“God, who is enthroned from of old, who does not change— He will hear them and humble them, because they have no fear of God.”

Explainingthebible: The phrase “He will hear them” is a promise that God listens to us. Not only does He hear our words, but He also understands our hearts. This assurance that God is attentive can empower us to be more open and vulnerable with God in our prayers . . .  It is a statement of assurance about God’s willingness to listen. As humans, we may feel unheard or invisible at times, but this verse illuminates the fact that God is always attentive. This invites us to approach Him with confidence during our prayers, knowing that our voices carry weight before Him. Our cries for justice, help, or healing resonate in His heart.

God still uses people in our generation to write words that celebrate Him. Laurie Klein is one of those.

I am indebted to the following resources:

Umcdiscipleship.org

Godtube.com, Stacie Marshall

Staugustine.com, Lindsay Terry

Songscoops.blogspot.com

Thehlukejourney.wordpress.com

By His Grace . . .