Journal for July 21st… So rich

7:02 AM Sunny & hot again…could use some rain, Lord.

Proverbs 21

How awesome Your wisdom is, Father. If only I would hide all Your words in my heart. Sacrifice is good, but just doing what is right from day to day is more acceptable to You v3. You don't want sacrifice that isn't from the heart, especially if a person lives one way and then comes to church and goes through the motions v27. Thank You for reminding me this morning that how I live and treat people is my worship -- it is my sacrifice and offering to You.

I am rich, truly rich. Compared to those who are lost and do not know the Lord of Heaven, I am rich. Compared to those who live in third world countries and have no healthcare, no clean environment, or may not have good water to drink, I am rich. Compared to those with no friends and no caring, loving family I am rich. And compared to those who have a nagging and hot-tempered wife I am abundantly rich v9,19. I can live inside the house! :-)

Be first. I am second.

Journal for July 20th…a dialogue

7:07 AM Sunny…again; over 100 today

Thank You, Lord, for the Gospels. Reading through them again--always fresh, new, and helpful glimpses of You. "No word from God is ever without power" -- so said the angel to Mary. How could anything from You lack power? Not possible. You, Father, are the Creator from which everything came into being. The very idea was Yours.

The same is true of the gospel. The very idea of salvation; of sending Your Son to earth; of providing a sacrifice in my place -- all Yours.

Proverbs 20

Darril, anyone can get into a quarrel and let it continue unresolved; but the wise man, the honorable man, will try to find a solution and a way to resolve conflict v3.

Father, You know I am not the wisest of Your children but I don't like unresolved conflict. As far as I'm concerned I will do my part. Sometimes, however, people will not let things go, or will insist on their way, their perspective, their solutions -- even when it's obviously driven by wrong motives or anger. I try to give where I can and agree when it's right. Please give me more wisdom. I wish I had Your mercy and grace, too. Help me forgive those who "trespass against me" as You have forgiven me…my trespasses against You are countless.

I will determine your steps, my son v24. How can you possibly understand your way without my help? That's for sure, Lord. I want my decisions to result from prayer and abiding in You. I am human and tend to err without You.

Oversee and bless this day as I study and prepare a message for Your people…may it be Your Word I preach/teach, and endorse it, empower it with Your Spirit.

I want You to be first. I am second.

Journal for July 19th…God’s plans

7:11 AM Sunny & hot

Father, You are as glorious today as yesterday, and as You will be tomorrow. The world goes from day to day, crisis to crisis, revolt to revolt, and yet You remain constantly good, always holy (set apart), and sovereign. I am grateful that Your grace, glory and mercy never change. I wouldn't stand a chance!

Proverbs 19

Your decrees, Lord -- Your will -- that's what matters. "Many plans are in a man's heart, but the Lord's decree will prevail" v21. I can make all kinds of plans, but You have the final say. I don't want to do anything that is not within Your plan. I remember the ways to understand what Your will may be: does it conform to the Word; what impressions do I receive from the Holy Spirit; what do you say when I pray and abide in the Word; what is the trend of the circumstances; and what do other people say/think and counsel.

Help me to be sensitive to these "signals" and not be so self-interested or into the immediate events to miss out on Your best. With a much bigger picture in mind -- the world in chaos, Israel being threatened, economic woes, and natural disasters, etc -- I don't want to miss out on what You're doing by being consumed with my little corner of the cosmos.

Be glorified today, Lord -- I know You will. Your glory doesn't depend upon me. I'm just fortunate to have been invited by the gospel to join the chorus of praise and adoration.

Be first. I am second.

Journal for July 18th…Broken spirits

7:14 AM Sunny and hot…again

Father, You and You alone are worthy of praise and adoration. Your perfection and kindness never change. I do not have to wonder or worry from day to day what kind of mood You're in. You are always gracious and kind to me. Of course, You're not always happy with the way I've behaved or with some of my thoughts, but You are always ready to accept me, hear me, and forgive me. Rather than judge me based on my merit -- which there is none, none at all -- You judge me based on Jesus Christ and what He has done for me. His merit, praise the Lord, is my cover and my salvation.

Proverbs 18

"A man's spirit can endure sickness, but who can survive a broken spirit?" v14

I think of, and pray for, all the young people and children today who have a broken spirit. They just want the approval and love of caring parents, but they don't get it. So many parents are self-consumed and self-involved. Many are wounded in spirit themselves. Broken marriages, selfishness, worldly pursuits…all have left children to fend for themselves -- physically, financially, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.

Lord Jesus, You are the One we need. This week, Lord, bless our VBS and the kids whose lives we may impact for You…with You. And may the adults, the believers at our church, "be sensitive to plight of the children they see. Even if they are dressed and fed and healthy in body, their spirit may be broken. Bad characters and drugs and alcohol may be offered to fill the void when only You can do that…You and loving parents.

"A man who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord." v22

…and I found a good one, too, Lord. Or rather, You found her for me. What a match You made when You brought us together. I can see the same working in the way my kids found their spouses. You're awesome.

Now if a man that finds a wife obtains favor from the Lord, then why all this rush to celibacy in the middle ages? I don't get it. Favor comes from having a wife, not in sacrificially denying yourself a life partner. Well, these are just my ramblings, Lord.

I want to abide in You today, and let Your words abide in me. Walk, sit, and ride with me throughout the day as I meditate on You. Help me pray. Talk with me. I need Your insight and wisdom. I need Your forgiveness and love.

I need You to have the preeminence and I need to be second.

Journal for July 15th…Yosef

8:06 AM Sunny and warm

2 Peter 3:18

Father, what an imperative you give to me through Your Word: "Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." That's what I want -- to grow. Not just any kind of growth but to grow in the grace and knowledge (first hand experiential knowledge) of Jesus Christ. My desire to grow must be met by Your Spirit's power and ability to transform me and help me.

Today I pray, Lord, for Your servant and pastor, Yosef Nadarkhani, who is facing the death in Iran for failure to recant his faith in Christ. He has led many, many Iranians to faith in Jesus, and friends say he will no likely recant. Lord, he's been in prison for several years after the death penalty was imposed. He hasn't recanted before, and probably won't now. I pray for Your grace in his life and that of his family and friends. I pray for all the Christians in Iran that aren't allowed good jobs or other societal benefits because they identify with the Messiah of God, Yashua. My problems pale in comparison to believers on the front line that offer their lives daily for You. Save Yosef's life and give him freedom…freedom to continue winning many Iranians to Christ.

Truly, to Yosef, You are first and he is second.

Journal for July 14th…Awakening

8:14 AM Satellite Office, Sunny & hot

Psalm 44

V1 "O God, we have heard with our ears, our fathers have told us, what deeds you performed in their days, in the days of old."

Lord, when I think of the revivals in Israel and recorded throughout the world over the centuries, I pray that it would happen again -- to America. We need another awakening…one that draws men to You. One in which You are recognized and glorified. One where we repent of our abortions, homosexuality, fornications, greed, substance abuse, child abuse, divorces, racism, and unbelief. An awakening where people call out to You, not government, for the answer to our national and personal conflicts.

V13,14. "You have made us the taunt of our neighbors, the derision and scorn of those around us. You have made us a byword among the nations, a laughingstock among the peoples."

This once great and God-fearing nation, respected by the world, is a joke to many. There was a time when our leaders would call on You for divine intervention, not try to accommodate everyone's religion and spare their feelings.

You are still the One and only powerful, almighty God. You, and You alone, have sent Your Son to redeem us from our sins. May we turn back to You. May Jesus Christ be praised and glorified. May we become a God-fearing nation again.

Start with me, Lord. Forgive my sins; cleanse my heart; renew my mind. I will abide in You and let Your words abide in me. Please have the preeminence. I am second.

Journal for July 13…Words (a brief dialogue, too)

7:24 AM Sunny and hot

Proverbs 13

From the words of his mouth a man will enjoy good things v2; The one who guards his mouth protects his life, the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin v3.

Lord, that is the truth!! I've had those times when I said something and immediately wished I could reach out, catch the words in mid-air, and take them back.

"Darril, your words can encourage or discourage people today. Think before You speak."

(Where have I heard that before, Lord)

"I gave you language for a reason -- to glorify me and communicate to others. Use it for Kingdom purposes…not like others who use language to lie, steal, and praise themselves."

Father, You know I'll need Your Spirit to remind me and use me. May the words I use tonight in our Bible Study be appropriate and helpful, explaining Your Word.

Thank You for Your Word. I don't know how we could get along and learn so much about You without it. Like language, Your Word is a gift to us. Forgive me for neglecting it; for not studying as I could. I always love reading and studying the Word. I pray that all the believers I know would come to appreciate it, too, and read it daily.

A note of thanksgiving, Lord, for each member of my family, for my church and all the great Christians I have known, for my salvation that is truly from You, and for having a ministry to serve You…and for my health. You have been too good to me.

When morning gilds the skies, my heart awakening cries, may Jesus Christ be praised!

Journal for July 12th…Worthless Things

7:14 AM CT  Psalm 12

Father, You deserve more praise and honor than we give You. Be glorified today. Draw the hearts of those searching for truth to Yourself. Help believers -- help me -- shake off the world and what it occupies of our/my mind and heart.

It is true v8 the wicked wander everywhere, and "what is worthless is exalted by the human race." Six pack abs and a slim figure; a sleek car and the best smart phone; and social networks that occupy hours of time. None of these, in the big scheme of things -- in view of eternity -- have lasting value. I wonder how my grandparents ever survived without Facebook or e-mail?? Lord, if as much attention were paid to You as to the world wide web the world would demonstrate more wisdom and prosperity.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the Christians You have brought into my life -- the ones that really love You, love me, and know how to forgive and encourage one another. While the world exalts worthless things, help us/me to exalt Jesus first of all…to give You the preeminence in our lives.

I am second.

Journal for July 7th…The Good Judge

Psalms 7

I thank You, Lord, for Your righteousness v17. I am so grateful that the mighty God, the One that will judge us all, is righteous, good, and just. Of course that means I would stand condemned before You without a chance for redemption. But the Judge Himself has provided the remedy -- His Son, Jesus Christ. I confess, Father, that Jesus stood condemned for me, in my place. I confess that I should have been made to pay for my sins but that Jesus paid for them instead. It's amazing…You can remain the righteous God of justice, sin can be atoned for, and I can be granted a pardon and eternal life.

Lord Jesus, I have had failures and successes; victories and defeats; proud moments and embarrassing moments. Only You know the balance of my life and which way the scales tip. But one thing is sure. I have eternal life because of You. You have come into this cursed world and redeemed "a wretch like me." You have provided the eternal promises of Heaven and a New Earth -- no longer any curse of sin.

How can someone hate sin so much and yet love it, too? The world, my world, struggles with the desire to please You and the desire to please "self". It's a battle for sure. I'm grateful that You remember that I am only dust and that my heart is Yours.

The world is a madhouse…in chaos! Without You there is no hope. You are not a religion. You are God. You are the One and Only Savior. Help me and all believers to grasp the importance of living for You, praying in faith, and abiding in Your Word. Please increase our conviction for our own sins and then the world around us, too. I know millions will not believe -- not even with concrete evidence of Your salvation. Their hearts are hard or carried away by the world. But I pray for believers today. Help us get our act together so that our influence at home, at church, at work, at school, and in the community may turn many of the unbelieving world to You.

I serve a risen Savior, He's in the world today; I know that He is living, whatever men may say; I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer; and just the time I need Him, He's always near! He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today; He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives! He lives! Salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives…He lives within my heart.

I am second.

Journal for July 6th…Principles

7:02 AM Sunny/hot

Father, You are, without any question, the God and Creator of all things. It is Your genius and power that brought everything into being. We can only look into space with our telescopes and marvel at the vastness and complexity of the universe, but You thought it all up! You control it still. The most amazing thing is this, however. Of all the creation, Your Son gave His life for me! I am just dust; I am a vapor. In the big scheme of things humans are unnoticeable specks in the cosmos. But You love us. I, for one, believe the whole gospel story, Lord, and You've confirmed my faith over and over again.

Lord Jesus, I fail miserably at giving You the preiminence in my life. You would be the absolute King if it weren't for me getting in the way. Thank You, for forgiving my sins and giving me Your Holy Spirit. You have made a relationship with my Creator possible -- for eternity -- by sharing Your righteousness with me. It's inconceivable, but true. Thank You.

Proverbs 6

Following commands is a way of life…it's the protection and strength of those who will listen and obey v13. We are not made to just do anything we want, anytime we want, any way we want. Like the universe there are principles and laws that govern life. You, Lord, gave us commands, and disciples must follow them in order to please You, glorify You in the world, and lead others to You. "If you love me," You said, "you will keep my commands." Yes, love ought to be enough motivation, but the fact that commands are a light to us and our protection only enhances the need to obey.

Thank You, Lord, for Your written Word that gives me the principles and resulting light for my life. May I preach it with honor and truth, but most of all, may I live it.

Be glorified today, Lord. I am second.

Journal for July 4th…Liberty

9:25 AM Sunny and hot

Father, I want to praise You for all You are. Words cannot never express Your majesty and glory. I have never seen Your majesty and glory (like John, Isaiah and others) but I have experienced Your grace, Your love, and Your deep, deep mercy. What I have not seen of You, since You are in heaven, is one thing; but what I know of You from Your everlasting forgiveness and salvation has convinced me of the glory and goodness I have not seen. The universe and the world around me screams for attention all pointing to You. How men can miss You in the creation alone is beyond me.

Amidst the beauty and genius of Your creation is me, and sinners like me. We are the dark spot of creation. We/I, unlike the trees, mountains, and stars, have a choice to make and a tendency to make bad ones. But You gave us/me a chance for restoration through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You, thank You, thank You. He somehow took all my sins -- the guilt and punishment -- away from me and somehow assigned His righteousness to me! Amazing! This may sound crazy and far-fetched to some people, but Lord, I believe the gospel hook, line and sinker. You are my liberty; You are my liberation; You are my freedom from my "self", my sin, and my once bleak eternity.

Proverbs 4

Thank You for a reminder, Lord, to keep focused. Focused on wisdom, teaching, and good instruction. You tell me to "guard my heart" v23. I need such a reminder because the world competes so strongly for my attention and affections. I will guard my heart with Your help. Thank You for Your Spirit in me that assists me in such things.

Shout to the Lord all the earth, let us sing; power and majesty, praise to the King! Mountains bow down and the seas will roar at the sound of Your Name.

Be glorified, Lord on this Independence Day. I am second.

Journal for July 2nd… Independence Weekend

8:31 AM Sunny, hot

Proverbs 2

It is the weekend that we celebrate nation's independence. Lord, more than anything else we need a return to Godly principles -- to the first principles laid out by our founding fathers.

It's a pattern, Lord, throughout the Word and a promise that I hold onto: that if the "righteous" will accept Your Word v1 then the perverse of the land -- those who even celebrate perversity v14 -- will be removed from the land. You clearly tell us to follow the way of good people (e.g. our founding fathers); and promise the wicked will be cut off from the land; and the treacherous will be uprooted v22. But Lord, we've strayed so far from the intent of our found fathers and so far from the Judeo-Christian roots of our country, is there any way back for America?

Yes, Lord, I would love to see a spiritual awakening in this land, and so would many others. Forgive our sins…forgive my sins…for it is so easy to stray from Your words and Your commands. Lord, I pray that out of this chaos and moral confusion that people will wake up to the truth of Your Word and return to the principles of our founders.

Journal for July 1st…Discipline

10:24 AM Sunny and warm

Had breakfast with a few of my friends at my satellite office this morning. Fellowship is always good for me. Thank You, Lord, for believing friends. Thank You for my life and my salvation, too. I heard the gospel; I understood it; I embraced it. Thank You for giving me understanding.

Proverbs 1

Discipline is good v23 and limitations are healthy. Discipline is Your way of protecting me and limitations are Your way of keeping me safe and near You. I want to be a "disciplined one", or disciple of the One who died for me. Forgive my ventures into self-centeredness and worldliness. I want You to be first in my life. I want to be second.

Sin is an attack on myself v18! Following You and being filled with Your Spirit is an attack upon sin. That's where I want to be. Thank You for the wisdom of Your Word and the understanding it gives me. It is the operations manual for my life and I'm blessed to have it.

My Jesus, my Savior, Lord there is none like You; all of my days I want to praise the wonders of Your mighty love.

Troublesome times are here, filling men's hearts with fear, freedom we all hold dear now is at stake; Humbling our hearts to God saves from the chastening rod, seek the way pilgrims trod, Christians awake! Jesus is coming soon, morning or night or noon, many will meet their doom, trumpets will sound; All of the dead shall rise, saints will meet in the skies (praise the Lord), going where no one dies, heavenward bound.

Years of time have come and gone          

Since I first heard it told                        

How Jesus would come again some day      

If back then it seemed so real                

Then I just can’t help but feel                

How much closer His coming is today     

Signs of the times are everywhere       

There’s a brand new feeling in the air     

Keep your eyes upon the eastern sky          

Lift up your head redemption draweth nigh

Wars and strife on every hand                

And violence fills the land                       

Still some people doubt He’ll ever come again                                                    

But the Word of God is true                   

He’ll redeem His chosen few                      

Don’t lose hope soon Christ Jesus will descend                                             

Signs of the times are everywhere     

There’s a brand new feeling in the air     

Keep your eyes upon the eastern sky          

Lift up your head redemption draweth nigh

Journal for June 30…His Words

6:55 AM Sunny 75

Thank You, Father, for the return of my journal/notebook. I have not prayed any less this past week, but it helps me to stay "on task" and keep my thoughts together when I write, or journal. Thank You, for so much…my salvation (which still defies understanding); the family you gave me and how blessed I am; my ministry - actually using one like me for Your purposes (Your grace runs deeps for Your people); my health, which I will never take for granted. Troubles come -- You promised they would -- but my future is You and the New Heaven and New Earth! Praise belongs to You. You are the One and Only Creator, Sustainer, Savior, and Sovereign. Period. One day You will bring about a just conclusion to this mess we've made.

Proverbs 30

Lord, give me neither poverty or wealth v8. All I need is enough to live moderately and serve You. Too much wealth and I could be consumed with managing it, or even put more confidence in my resources than in Your resources. Don't give me too much or too little. I already have more than I need to serve You. May the resources and possessions I have be tools for Your service.

The Words that come from You are pure, unlike the words of men v5, and it isn't necessary to add to Your words v6. Your Word, along with the Spirit's light, speaks for itself. When You say something we don't need to clarify it; make it palatable; or fit it into our fallen culture. Your Word: it is what it is! For this I give You praise and thanksgiving. Keep me into Your Word and help me, please help me, to live according to Your Word. I'm the first to tell You it's not easy. Coming out of the world I have tendencies that disappoint You and disgust me. You are not surprised because You know what I am and where I came from. I am only dust. But I'm dust that You created, continue to love and have saved for all time and eternity. Thank You for revealing all of this through Your Words that are pure.

In the Name of Jesus Christ, the crucified and risen Son of God, and in the power of His blood, I ask for a hedge of protection around myself, my family, and my flock.

Give me the mind of Christ today; protect my heart and affections; help me recall and obey Your truth (You are the Truth); give me opportunity to share something of Your goodness with someone today who needs to know Your grace; increase my faith and help me recall and appropriate Your Word. This is my armor…You are my armor: v7 You are a shield to those who take refuge in You.

Lord Jesus, be glorified today and help me be second.

Journal for June 21st

7:23 AM Raining!
The rain, Lord, is needed so much…but this is day 2 of our Bible Club effort. Oh well, we'll take the rain and leave the rest to You.

You are to be glorified in the world today, Father, whether the wicked like it or not. You give breath and life to everyone, yet rebellion and sin, selfishness and greed have the day … for now. One day every knee will bow and confess that You are the Lord. You have always been God, You are God now, and You will be God forever. Please accept my feeble praise and thanks today.

Psalm 141
Lord, I have nothing of value to offer You except what You have given to me. But I ask, I desire, that my prayers come before You and satisfy You like incense and my they please You v2. All day long I pray and think in Your presence, but unpleasing and worldly thoughts push their way in. Sort through it all and accept my willful prayers to You as an offering of sacrifice and praise. Thank You for allowing me, mortal that I am, to come into Your presence.

Lord, I ask that You help me guard my mouth -- that's a tall order, seeing who's mouth it is LOL. Teach me to watch my words v3. Not only that, Lord Jesus, help me watch my heart! Keep my heart from wicked things and from performing reckless acts v4.

Lord, this world has many wicked men and women that harm others. Some are leaders of nations, some of gangs, some are in charge of their family that they abuse, or in charge of some illegal enterprise. Some, Lord, don't just want personal power or wealth, but are only content on killing their perceived enemies. There are those, as You know, that want to eliminate Israel, take down the United States, and enforce the godless rules of Islam. Is this even worse than Nazism ever was? Both wanted the eliminate of Jews…Your chosen people. So my prayer, Lord, is against the wicked of the world v5, and for the protection of Your people Israel. Give the U.S. a righteous backbone again in the world. We are about to see public expressions of faith in You being eradicated from our culture. Come, Lord Jesus, come.

Your people, Your church, Your called out ones, need Your Spirit today, Lord. We need a fresh moving of Your Spirit…a new filling. The world is still going to race away from You and toward destruction, but may the Gospel be heralded around the world.

My eyes look to You, Lord God. I seek refuge in You. Do not let me die v6. Protect me and let the wicked fall into their own nets (now I speak of those closer to home who undermine the church). Be glorified in my life even though I don't give You much to work with.

The fact is, and I believe this, that You love me and gave Your Son for me. I don't understand it, but I believe it. I count on it! Thank You for my salvation, my family, my ministry, my health, and for my part in the New Heaven and New Earth.

Just recalled this old song: "Jesus is all the world to me: my life, my heart, my all. He gives me strength from day to day, without Him I would fall. When I am sad to Him I go; no other One could love me so. When I am sad, he makes me glad…He's my friend."
Be Lord today. I am second.

9:38 AM Rain stopped, the sun is out
Thank You, Lord, for letting me finally get this blog posted. It took some doing.
Right now the Bible Camp is in full swing. I pray that a bunch of kids will come, in spite of the dampness. Touch the hearts of the little ones our team will minister to today. Fill the hearts of those that are ministering in Your Name.

Journal for June 20…Discouragers

Psalm 120

To You, Father, and to You alone should be all the praise and adoration of all time. Creation shouts Your glory and genius. The way of salvation - the way You devised - also points to Your genius, but also to Your kindness, mercy, grace, patience and love. I want to praise You, the One that lives in unapproachable light, for letting the light of the Gospel into my life; and for letting Jesus Christ, the Light of the world, shine in my heart.

Lord, You know there are people that stir up trouble v2; often for no apparent reason. Or, they take what might be a legitimate concern and blow it out of proportion to cause trouble and conflict. Why do they do that? What is the benefit? It rarely propels them to a place of prominence, but only brings others down -- and discourages still others. Even among believers there are "trouble-makers" and I could never understand why. It must be their old nature that is in charge. They do some of the same things a worldling would do. Things like try to trap someone in a fault v5. maybe it's best for them to separate from the rest, from the fellowship v11. There are so many believers that need to grow and mature without the interference of "discouragers" in their path.

Lord Jesus, You know me so well, and yet You "counted me faithful" and put me into the ministry (it's still a mystery to me, but so much of what You do defies my logic!). You, Lord, are my source of joy and strength. Thank You for Your salvation, Your Word, and Your very presence in my life.

As we start our "mission trip" today, please overshadow the whole endeavor. Bring children and adults to this event. Bless the Episcopal Church that is hosting the Bible Camp and protect all our workers and helpers…from our church and theirs. May this be a "God thing" not our thing.

I ask You, in the Name of Jesus Christ and the power of His precious blood, that You would put a hedge of protection around my family: Dawn, Darin, Alexis, Curtis and Denise, and my mother. Only Your divine protection will do, Lord, in this very hostile world. We'll all be home soon enough, but until then we need Your protection. I ask the same for my church family…newer Christians and their families, and those that have been believers a longer time. All of us need your protection. Put into their hearts a hunger for Your Word and a love for Your presence.

May we overcome any "discouragers" today, Lord, and lean completely on You. Please don't let me become a "discourager" to anyone today, Lord. I want to be an "encourager". You are the Lord of hosts and should be the Lord of us all. You be the Lord, and let me be second.

Journal for June 17th…We need a Redeemer!

7:43 AM 81 & overcast

Father, I enter Your presence this morning in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am so grateful to You that there was a time that You saved me, redeemed me, and took me in. I have nothing to offer You besides what You have given me to start with, namely the goodness and merits of Jesus Himself. You have redeemed me with the price You paid.

Psalm 107

Let the people give thanks to the Lord for His faithful love and His wonderful works for the whole human race! v8,15,21,31 Yes, the whole human race, not just Your people enjoy so many of Your benefits. Lord, You are the world's greatest Lifeguard. It's recounted in this passage You've given me today. You've rescued people from wandering and lostness v4; from darkness and gloom (and there's all kinds of darkness and gloom) v15; from afflictions of all kinds v17; from tempests and storms of life v24,25; from all kinds of things. For Your constant involvement, caring and rescues -- especially in my own life -- I give You thanks and praise Your Name! You have redeemed me.

But I am impressed to pray for the Church around the world, and for the United States, when I hear that You turn rivers into deserts and fruitful land into salty wasteland v33,34. Oh, Lord, that is an apt description of the Church in America, and of America itself. We were a river and a fruitful land, but we've become a spiritual desert and wasteland. You even cause "nobles", the leaders among us, to wander in trackless wastelands v40 (sounds like our government; but also sounds like recognized, big-name religious leaders, too).

Please, Father, forgive our sins, our pride, our arrogance, and self-centeredness. This has happened because "of the wickedness of its inhabitants." v34 It can't be more clear than that!

No matter where we find ourselves today, I know You can turn a desert into a pool of water, and dry land into springs of water v35. You can bless us and we can multiply again v38. Forgive me, forgive us all, for our sins and wanderings away from You. Refresh us again. Make fruitful and strong again. You can do it. We need You to redeem us.

Lord Jesus, I want to be second and give You the preeminence in all things. There are decisions I will need to make, and wisdom I will need to demonstrate. I will need Your guidance and insight. Thank You for the promise of Your involvement in my life and the world. Thank You for wisdom…for Your Word! A whole day can turn into one of those spiritual wastelands when I neglect Your Word.

I serve a risen Savior, He's in the world today; I know that He is living whatever men may say; I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer; and just the time I need Him, He's always near! He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today - He walks with me, and talks with me along life's narrow way….

Be first, Lord. I am second.

Journal for June 16th…the Breach

7:00 AM 79 & Sunny

My Father in Heaven, I come before You in the Name of Jesus, Your one and only Son. I have no merit of my own and don't pretend to own access to Your throne…except that I have believed in Jesus Christ as my Savior; I acknowledge my sinfulness and lostness apart from Him, and that He died and rose again. Nothing I have compares to that! Thank You, Lord, for allowing me to talk with You today. Your love for me is astounding.

I have thoughts, and concerns, and questions to bring before You today. Some will come in the form of mental musings -- just thoughts and ideas; others will come in the form of verbal and heartfelt prayers; others will be instantaneous praises and requests. Thank You, Father, in advance for being there, listening, and caring.

I want to praise You for being there, for being on Your throne, and for being in control. We have a lot of hurts, disappointments, and disasters here on earth. Friends and church members who are walking today in the valley of the shadow of death; others that are facing unexpected, but difficult conflicts; several are confronted by a marriage in crisis; and others have decisions to make. But You are over it all. Nothing slips by You. What I ask You for, is not so much an absence of these things, but Your grace and almighty assistance in and through these circumstances. O God, we need grace today. We need clarity today. We need YOU today.

Psalm 106

Awesome passage of Scripture, Lord. What a true reflection of our situation today. The rebellions and sins of Israel may be the story line, but it reflects on us -- the principles are the same. Lord, don't always give us what we ask for then send wasting diseases and pestilences v14,15. We ask for some awfully selfish and short-sighted things. Over and over again, Lord, You have forgiven us, saved us, redeemed us v10, and yet our worldliness continues. We adopt the ways of the ungodly v35 and expect Your blessings? We sacrifice our sons and daughters to demons on the altar of the world… we go along to get along … but lose our children in the process. The one phrase, Lord, that stands out (if I had to choose just one) is that "they were beaten down by their sin." That describes the world; it describes most Christians! Beaten down by their own sin. It takes a toll, Lord.

But You have pointed out my responsibility in this Psalm. You would have destroyed them--if Moses, Your chosen one had not stood before You in the breach to turn Your wrath away from destroying them v23. And again, v30, Phineas stood up and intervened, and the plague was stopped.

So this morning You said, "Darril, one of your responsibilities is to stand in the breach and intervene for my people. Pray for them. Get in the widening breach that has divided Me and those that are mine. Sin is beating them down. Pray for them…intercede. If you cannot do anything else, or feel helpless to give aid and comfort to them, pray for them. Come before me cleansed by the blood of Christ, and I will hear you on their behalf."

Lord, I will pray. I am often helpless and feel so inadequate in the conflicts and adversities that others face. But I will pray. First, forgive my sins. Cleanse me by the blood of Christ and in the Name of my wonderful Savior, Jesus the Messiah.

Please have the preeminence, and help me, Lord, to be second. 7:42 AM

Journal for June 15th…God’s on the Throne

7:05 AM 78 & Sunny

Glorious day, Lord! Only because You are on Your throne and everything is headed exactly where You intend for it to go. Everyone's talking about economic depression ahead; or increased natural disasters; or wars and rebellions on the rise; or even drought and pestilences and disease increasing. But the thing is, You are on Your throne!

"I never promised that you'd have silver or gold; or that you'd never feel the fire or shiver in the cold; but I did say you'd never walk alone; and I did say, 'don't make this world your home.'"

There is another place where I belong … where my true home is. I get too comfortable here sometimes, Lord. Maybe the distresses of this world serve a two-fold purpose: one is judgment on the world for its rebellion and sin; the other is to give believers like me a greater longing for the New Earth and Heaven.

Thank You, Lord, for saving my soul; thank You, Lord, for making me whole; thank You, Lord, for giving to me Your great salvation so rich and free.

Psalm 105

I give You thanks, Lord, and call on Your Name -- for help, direction, peace, salvation. You say to proclaim Your deeds among the people v1, and I think that in tough times like we're facing, that's a good thing. Your works are wonderful v2, starting with salvation from sin; starting with the payment Jesus made for me on the cross! My heart does rejoice today, Lord, and I want to seek You and see You.

And in light of all that's happening in the world, I must remember that Your judgments govern the whole earth. You're right-smack-dab in the middle of everything that's taking place!

I wish our president understood this: v8-11…You, God, forever remember Your covenant and the promise You made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob: "I will give the land of Canaan (Palestine) to you as your inherited portion." That's a forever promise, and forever means and includes now! Lord, may we support Your people. Bring the land of Israel and the precious Jewish people back to You. Bless the Jews that trust in Your Messiah.

Stay on Your throne and rule. No matter what the cost, or difficulty, or misery we may experience in this fallen world, You will win. I have already won because of Jesus and His love for me; His death for me; His resurrection for me; the promise of His return for me. You are first! I am second!

Journal for June 14th…Care

6:57 AM

Psalm 104

Lord, I come to You this morning in adoration of Your power and creative genius. Everything in the world was created by You. Not just the animals and sea creatures but the cycles within which they live and the characteristics of their nature. And they only eat because You open Your hand to them and provide their food v28. May Your glory endure forever v31!

There's great comfort in knowing that You, Father, established the earth on its foundations v5, and it will never be shaken. At least not until You shake it…not until You say it's time to end the sin, the misery, the rebellion. I tell You this with gratitude, for I was a rebel. I still have those tendencies in me, but I am claiming, and depending on, Your salvation through Jesus. Just like the creatures of nature who only have what comes from Your opened hand, I, too, wait for the salvation that comes completely from Your hand.

It is awesome and wonderful to have a personal relationship with You. Thank You Jesus, Lord of all, Lamb of God, Savior to believers…You died in my place -- for no other reason but love -- and rose from the dead. All this was for me. I wish my life reflected the appropriate response of obedience and praise.

Things change, Lord. Circumstances continually change and the world we live in, this fallen world, is not dependable. Just when we think things are settled down and we can go about our business/ministry in peace, something flares up to change our course and garner our attention. In the midst of changing situations, Lord, I pray for Your wisdom and guidance. Show me Your way. Let me live for You or kill me if You must, but be glorified in the choice You make for me.

I am weak but You are strong; Jesus keep me from all wrong; I'll be satisfied as long as I walk, let me walk close to You. Just a closer walk with You.

Show me Your way, that I may walk with You; Show me Your way, that I may talk with You.

Be glorified in this fallen world today, Lord. I am second.

In the Name of Jesus, the risen Son of God, I ask for a strong hedge protection around the churches today, Lord. They need Your protection and power. Your Bride has been through a lot. I also, prayer for a hedge around my family -- even as I thank You for my wife, children, parents and my whole family. But we need Your divine protection and care.

Lord, I lift up our president and all the leaders in our government. Somehow, someway, help them respond to Your wisdom and do what is right, not just what is politically expedient. What we need is a spiritual awakening! Maybe one more time before allow the world to have more tribulation. The world is a mess, but there are Christians in the midst of it -- in America, the middle-east, China, and everywhere else. Hold and strengthen Your people wherever they live, serve, and suffer today. One day we'll all be home together, but for now, Your church needs Your encouragement and care.

Journal for June 13th…Dust

7:13 AM

Psalm 103

Okay, Lord, I think this has become my new "favorite" Psalm. It's all about praise and Your goodness, and about my sin and Your forgiveness. Just awesome and wonderful!

To You, Father, I offer praise…from my heart, from my soul. I praise Your holy Name and all that You are. How easily I forget Your benefits -- I take Your benefits and You for granted way too much. Anything of value and praise that I have come from You.

Lord, I know that You forgive all my sin. That alone is too great for my mind to understand. It is only up to me to confess, repent, and believe how thorough Your forgiveness is. As I compare v3 with 10-14 I want to thank You forever. I expect that in Heaven I will be able to tell You over and over, from a pure heart (finally) how grateful I am for Your salvation. You do not deal with me as my sins deserve! (v10) If You repaid me according to my offenses I'm be vaporized yesterday! But Your faithful love 11 is great toward me. I do respect Your law -- I don't always keep it -- but I respect Your law as the final standard.

I know You expect holiness, but I am just dust (v14)... You created me and allow me to live life my way. I am just dust… not created holy, but trying to obtain it (which is impossible apart from You). I am just dust… totally lost and hopeless without a Savior, an Advocate, a personal Messiah. So You became dust, too… remained holy in character and conduct. You became dust… in order to let me and my kind murder You.

From eternity to eternity You faithful love continues for me and all who believe (17). Your throne is established in Heaven forever. You are God. Period. Yet You are a good and compassionate Father. You, Lord God, are compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and full of faithful love toward me… only dust. It's amazing to even think about it.

You have the throne, but I have Your love and compassion. That's enough for me. My heart thanks You this morning. And I will thank You forever. I will praise You on this earth and on the New Earth face to face! Then I will truly be second!

Journal for June 11th…Redemption

8:01 AM

Revelation 8-11

Lord God, just so You know, I regret my sinfulness and turn to Jesus for salvation. He is the Lamb of God that was slain for my sins. What could have been catastrophic for me turned out to be forgiven, cleansed, and redeemed.

What amazes me, Lord, is that after all the world suffers and after all the clear evidence that judgment is upon them, many will not repent and turn to You. 9:20 "The rest of the people that were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands to stop worshiping demons and idols…that are not able to see, hear, or walk"…or save!!

Thank You, Lord, for the "seal" You will have on Your people in the days of tribulation -- the seal You have on believers now is the Holy Spirit Himself!

Millions killed by war, pestilence, and natural disaster, and yet most people go on living without You; rejecting You; fixed in their darkness and lostness. Even now humans produce survival movies that portray people as heroes, not sinners, and the earth as "home". And they falsely project a "survival of the fittest" mentality, as if life can just naturally continue toward a happier day after cataclysmic floods, earthquakes, and war.

Thank You, Lord, for Your salvation…for opening my eyes… for letting me believe and receive Your great redemption. May Jesus Christ be glorified. May I be second.

Journal for June 10th… Last days?

10:45 AM

Revelation 5

Just refreshing my memory, Lord, on world events in the last few years of history. A world leader, wars all over the place, economic upheaval, death for all kinds of reasons, natural disasters that kill millions and millions. But all the while I note several things. First, that God is the One who is in control. You not only allow the misery, but uses it as judgment upon the world. Second, the prayers of the saints are as incense in golden vessels to You. Third, the risen Lamb of God, the Lion of Judah, the One and Only Son of God is the One through whom the judgment comes. Oh that everyone knew Him, embraced Him, trusted Him now while there is time.

Father, it sounds as if today's world is racing toward this climax! At first it's sort of scary and unsettling; but then, by faith, I have to remember that I am safe with You. I am saved by You because of the shed blood of the Lamb. This may just bring on the New Earth much sooner. Suffering and persecution and misery only lasts for the night -- the night of this present darkness -- but Heaven and joy is forever.

Help me be a strong and positive force for my family; a strong and consistent encouragement to my flock. Thank You for the salvation I have in You. There is no other Name given among men by which we can be saved!

To God be the glory, great things He has done; so loved He the world (me) that He gave us His Son; but purer and higher and greater will be our wonder, our transport when Jesus we see!

Sweet hour of prayer, sweet hour of prayer, may I thy consolations share; 'til from Mount Pisgah's lofty height, I view my home and take my flight. This robe of flesh I'll drop, and rise to seize the everlasting prize; and shout while passing through the air, "Farewell, farewell sweet hour of prayer."

Praise the Lord! The great and merciful Lord! Help me be second.

Journal for June 9th… a Vapor

8:50 AM

Psalm 39

Lord God…my wonderful Father in Heaven…What a clear reminder You have given me of my mortality. Every mortal man is a vapor v5, my life span is nothing in Your sight. This life is so transitory. The real life comes later, when You have made a New Heaven and a New Earth for Your children to enjoy. But now, in this life, deliver me from all my transgressions v8; the force of Your hand on me as You deal with my sin is heavy. Forgive me of my sins and release me, in the Name of Jesus Christ, from the horrible price of sin. I am just a foreigner on this earth, a so-journer v12. My future is with You. Help me to remember that. My future is with You, not in the possessions or accomplishments of this life. It's Your life, Your Son, Your plans that are my future. Praise be to God for His gift of Self and Son. Be glorified in this vapor today. I am second.

Journal for June 8th…Godliness

I Timothy 4:7-10

Striving for godliness.

Father, You are Almighty. Above all. The final say. The source of life. Light. You, Lord, will outlast all sinners, all rebels, all demons, and the consequences of sin.

Godliness is being holy, different. It's having the mindset on the lasting, spiritual things. Godliness is nurturing, caring for, and embracing the spirit, and not the body or temporal affairs. Godliness requires "striving" because it does not come naturally to me. Plus, I get distracted easily by the world and current issues at church and in circumstances. I want to be second, be godly. I can't say that I'm even close.

My failures, Lord, are no match for Your grace and mercy. The blood of Jesus, Your Son, has a complete and lasting cleansing affect on me. Not because of any merit of my own -- I certainly have nothing to bring to the table -- but because of Your love and mercy. It's 100% Your initiative. Thank You for my salvation. Thank You for all the little "salvations" you give me throughout my life and throughout my day: saving me from harm at times; saving me from the ill-will of others; and saving me from me and my sinful tendencies.

Lord, it appears that the world is facing a climatic event of some kind. The natural disasters alone are enough to scare the ordinary person. Hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes and tsunamis, floods and fires are increasing in number and intensity…and weather predictions are looking bleak for hurricane season in the western hemisphere. Add to that the rebellions and upheavals in nations; the terrorist movement; the increasing hatred for Israel; and the moral failure of our own U.S. leaders all indicate something is going on.

Could we be going home soon? I pray my people are prepared for the challenge of living for Jesus in uncertain times, and excited about watching the hand of God move over the earth and affairs of men. Are the final pages of history being written? Is judgment coming to the earth? Will I stand strong no matter what?

Forgive my sins and help me be second. Cleanse me, Holy Spirit, with the Word and blood of Jesus. Help me shepherd my flock and prepare them to shine for You as the shadows deepen. I believe with all my heart that no matter what happens, with You, Lord Jesus, the best is always yet to come!

Journal for June 6th…Grace

6:58 AM

Psalm 6

Lord, I realize that I'm no more righteous than anyone else. Some sins may seem graver, or have harsher consequences (murder or rape vs. stealing a candy bar, for example), but dirty is dirty. It doesn't matter if a shirt is stained with mud or blood, it's still unusable. When set against the backdrop of Your law, I am as guilty as anyone else. So, please, do not rebuke me in Your anger v1, or discipline me in Your wrath. It's your grace, O Lord, that I appeal to. Be gracious to me v2, for I am weak. With all my heart I believe that Jesus died in my place and out of mercy, plain and simple mercy, extended salvation to me. For the plan of salvation -- for the gospel -- I give You praise and thanksgiving today. What an awesome God You are. How big and glorious and bright and wondrous You must be.

It is Your faithful love that I appeal to, Lord v4, for my rescue. I know there are things about my life that detract from Your purpose and glory, but as long as I'm alive there's always a chance that I can live for You, bring You glory and give You thanks v5.

The Lord has heard my plea for help and accepts my prayer v9… thank You, over and over again I say thank You.

Psalm 36

We think we are so self-sufficient and important. Our lives are just a vapor in the procession of history. But with You, Lord God, is life's fountain v9; in Your light, and only in Your light, will we see light. Spread Your faithful love, Lord, over those who know You… I am one of those. Only because of Your grace am I able to know the God that made me and then showed grace to me in the life, death, and resurrection of His great Son.

Be merciful and gracious today, Lord Jesus, to my family, my church flock, and my friends. As a matter of fact, be merciful to this nation (as You already have by letting us exist this long); help us be a beacon once again that sends the gospel out around the world. Somehow get a hold of our leaders and turn their heads away from their political egos and toward just doing the right things.

Be gracious today. Be gloried today. I really want to be second.

Journal for June 3rd…Do-overs

5:36 AM - Last day of school for this year.

Psalm 3

Lord, You are to be praised and glorified forever. You alone created and still sustain the whole world…that would include me. I am an unknown to the world but significant enough for You to give Your own Son to die for me.

As I read this Psalm and apply it to my life, I recall that through the years it has been those who should be my friends, my Christian allies, that have hurt me most and disappointed me most. Foes from the outside, from the darkness, are to be expected; it's the foes that should be living in unity, as You commanded, that cause the most alarm and harm. It's regrettable. The good news is that we'll have eternity in Heaven to recover, reconcile, and renew friendships! Eternity is a “do-over” opportunity.

You, Lord, are indeed a shield around me v3, for nothing gets through to me that doesn't get Your expressed permission. I lie down and sleep, and awaken again v5 because You let me have another day to serve You…another chance to get it right. Thank You, Lord, for all the "do-overs". My life is full of "do-overs".

Salvation belongs to the Lord, alright v8. The eternal salvation bought and paid for at the cross, and also the little "salvations" that occur throughout one's life, throughout one's day! The “do-overs”.

After all, all good things come from above. In ourselves and in this world darkness is the default condition; pain and suffering is the default experience; rebellion and selfishness is the default disposition. But then comes grace and mercy from a great God that loves us with an everlasting love. Wrong is exposed, light is introduced, and salvation is possible. Thank You, Father for the Light!

I pray for several students that I have tried to share the gospel with this year. They have heard now the truth about Jesus and salvation and forgiveness. Holy Spirit, whether I have done a good job or not, please do Your work in their hearts.

May Jesus be glorified today. I am second.

Journal for June 2…Judgment

5:36 AM

Psalm 2

Lord, I suppose there's a part of us that wants no restraints placed on us, even when those retraints are good for us. The sin in me, the natural darkness that tries to overcome Your light in me, wants no rules, no laws, no overseer. It's Your love for me that brings the necessary guidelines and limitations … and they're all for my own good! Thank You, Father, for revealing Yourself to me. I would have never found You otherwise. And, thank You for revealing Your Son to me. While the nations rebel and try to throw off what seems to be Your retraints, I am grateful for the kindness that gives me limitations. It's like with a child: how often do parents guide, correct, discipline and enforce rules that are designed to protect the child, and yet the child rebels against it?

Your anointed One, Jesus Christ, could suddenly appear and judge the nations at anytime. I fear the judgment, and yet I don't have to because of the cross. Judgment against me has already been executed against Jesus. There is no way to get a grasp on that kind of love.

Lord God, I give You praise for Your rightful rule -- for Your great and highest position over all creation…Your creation. What is amazing to me is the grace and mercy that accompanies that power and authority. You are the perfect balance of judgment and mercy!

In the Name of Your awesome Son, Jesus Christ, the crucified and risen One, and in the power of His shed blood, I ask You for a hedge of protection around my family and church -- around my sphere of relationships. Help us do battle until the victory is made clear to all.

I am grateful for my salvation; my family -- wife, kids, mom and dad (who introduced me to You); my health; my ministry; my church…and my good looks LOL (which You could take away in a flash!). Thank You for giving me repeated chances to serve another day.

Be the Lord today. My tendency is toward mistakes and failure. Help me be second.

Journal for June 1st…Happy

5:42 AM

A new month, to us, in which to serve and live. All I know is that You will be glorified one way or another. Father, You are glorified in Heaven by every being around You, and rightly so. You created everything that exists, and You provide the "life support" for all things living…including me! Of course, I have no merit of my own, no claims I can make of my exploits or holiness; everything I have is from You. Everything. And I thank You for all You have given me: salvation; life; family; ministry; health; Your Word; and so much more. You give life meaning, purpose and love.

Psalm 1

The contrast between the happy man and the wicked man is stark. And even though the differences seem muddled sometimes on earth, there is certainly another dimension, the spiritual one, that is at play. The happy man meditates on Your Word and grows -- You even see that he prospers--at least in spirit, and often in other ways. The wicked are never happy. I see them have their temporary moments of satisfaction when their evil deeds are done, but lasting, deep down in the soul happiness eludes them.

Thank You, Lord, for Your Word and honor of knowing You personally. Other than Your love for me -- which in itself is a mystery -- I can't think of any other reason for the Holy God to have anything to do with me…much less sacrificing Himself for my sins. Help show my gratitude by serving You. I am second.

Journal for May 31st…Stranger

5:40 AM

Psalm 119:17-32

Father, it has occurred to me that on my best day, when all seems right in my world and with me, it is still less than the life You have waiting for me in Heaven. It's like some people that are born into abject poverty and oppression. They just think that's how it is…that there's nothing better. You love me and want so much more for me but I am a sinner -- born a fallen man in a fallen world.

You, however, are to be glorified and praised! You are holy, set completely apart from me and this cursed earth. Thank You for the promise of Heaven and a New Earth. There is no earthly explanation for the goodness and kindness You show toward me…none. I have nothing to bring to this relationship: no holiness, no goodness; not even a decent prospect of godliness. I have nothing that You didn't give me. It's like when my dad used to give me a quarter to put in the offering plate. It really didn't come from me, but I gave it. Now, anything I have to give still does not come from me…it's all from You.

V18 Please open my eyes so that I may see wonderful things in Your law, in Your Word. The truth is, Lord, I'm a stranger v19 here on earth -- You made me a stranger the moment I took Christ's offer of salvation. I don't belong here because of You. Help me be more Heaven-minded.

Please have the pre-imminence today, Lord. Even though I'm a stranger here now too much of me is worldly. I really want to be second.

Journal for May 27th…His Love

5:27 AM

Psalm 27, 57

I call to You, Lord, in the Name of Jesus…precious, wonderful Jesus. You are the God of my salvation -- not just the salvation of my soul, but You save me in a hundred other ways every day. Like when spiritual attack comes, or when I'm just being worldly. While I can't avoid every consequence of the battle or my "self", You are engaged in the battle, too, and never give me what I truly deserve. Yes, You are the God of my salvation.

Your faithfulness reaches to the heavens. You can't help Yourself, can You?! Your love is just that deep for me. You gave Your Son to ransom me, buy me back, from the fate I deserve.

You have made it possible for me to hide in the shadow on Your wing…like a child that feels safe standing next to his/her daddy.

Fill me, Lord, with Your Spirit today. I want to live for You; walk with You; talk with You. Please put a strong hedge of protection around my family (and I give You thanks for my family; Your purpose for me in that regard is pleasant to my heart); around my friends and my church family…all in the Name of Jesus Christ and power of His blood.

Heaven for me; Heaven for me; Jesus will be what makes it Heaven for me…all its beauties and wonders I've been longing to see; but Jesus will be what makes it Heaven for me.

Desiring to be second.

Journal for May 26th… Be Gracious

5:40 AM

Psalm 56

Be gracious to me, God.

Lord, Your Word will often reflect the thoughts and impressions of my own heart. Many times Your very words express what I want to say better than I could do. Thank You, Father, for Your Word. You did not make us clamor and search for You; You revealed Yourself to us…to me! Thank You, Lord. I want to praise You this morning for everything. Yes, even while many are still digging out of the natural disasters in the world, and even while I, and folks I know, are struggling with one thing or another, I want to praise You. No matter what happens on earth, You are still just as worthy of praise! In the big scheme of things, You will outlast all this -- and because of Jesus, so will I !

Be gracious to me, God, as You already have v1. Man would trample me, fight me and oppress me, but You are gracious to me.

I praise Your Word v10, and I trust in You. I will try to trust You even when circumstances are difficult and dark; I will try to trust You…I want to trust You. Let Your Spirit build my confidence in You more and more.

There have been times that You delivered me from death (snakes, car accidents come to mind, for example); but You delivered me from death in the sense that You've allowed me to be alive. You haven't vaporized me yet. And, You delivered me from death, eternal death, the second death, through the horrible, but gracious, sacrifice of Jesus in my place. You have been gracious to me already.

Thank You for so many things. I will have eternity to thank You for my salvation; and for the family and friends that You have given me; and for putting me into ministry (even though I doubted myself more than You did sometimes). Thank You for my health, too.

Please put a strong hedge of protection around my family and church today…in the Name of Jesus, the crucified, then risen Son of God and the power of His blood I ask it.

Just hearing my prayers, which I am confident You do, is a move of graciousness on Your part. Be gracious…be glorified…be God today. I am second.

Journal for May 25th…Needing God

5:32 AM

Psalm 55

How true it is, Lord, that You will answer me when conflict comes. You always have. Even when it is a friend that turns on me and tries to harm me. We used to have close fellowship v14, we walked with the crowd into the house of God. Yet "his words are smooth, but war is in his heart v21." War is in His heart -- I am taken by that phrase this morning. Why would a Christian have war in his heart? Lord, I don't understand when a believer would wish harm or defeat on another believer.

I will cast my burden on the Lord, and You will support me v22; You will not allow the righteous to be shaken. And Lord, You and I both know that the only righteousness I have is what I am given by my Lord Jesus Christ. The only merit I have is not from within me, but from the merit of the one and only Son of God, who died and gave Himself for me. I’m lost without You.

Psalm 85

Lord, we need You to return to us…to our church, to our nation, and to Israel v4. You are the God of our salvation and sometimes we feel abandoned. Yet it is I/we that have abandoned You. Revive us again v6 so that Your people, Your Bride and Your chosen nation, Israel, may rejoice in You. Show us Your faithful love, Lord, and give us Your salvation v7.

We need You to forgive our foolish ways -- I speak of believers and the people of Israel, for all of claim Jehovah v8. You salvation is near any nation that respects and honors You v9, so that Your glory may be seen in that land. Return Your glory to Israel. Return Your glory to the United States. Return Your glory to Your Bride, the church.

Even economic security and abundance is found by the nation that honors You v12. I guess that is true of individuals like me, and churches like mine, too. The Lord blesses His people!

Today, Father, I ask in the Name of Jesus Christ, the crucified, buried, and risen Son of God, that You would put a hedge of protection around my family today, around my friends, and around my church family. Hedge in Your people. There are people we will come across today that "have war in their heart." They may even be friends. We know Satan is up to no good…what a fool.

Thank You, Lord for my salvation through Your sacrifice. Fill me with Your Spirit today and be glorified somehow in me. I want to be second.

Journal for May 24th…King of Glory

5:37 AM

Psalm 24

Praise to the King of Glory! You, Lord, made the world and everything, absolutely everything, belongs to You v1,2. It was magnificent and glorious when You created it all; we tarnished it by our sinfulness. That's why You intend to make a New Earth and restore all things. I can only glorify You and praise You for the plans You have in store.

I must confess, I do not have clean hands or a pure heart v3,4. I wish I did. On my own merit I have nothing to bring to You. I come to You on the basis of Jesus' clean hands, pierced as they are (because of me), and His pure heart. Because of Him and through Him I come before Your throne and approach Your holy hill. That's the only reason I even have the capacity to seek Your face v6, to enter Your presence.

Yes, You are the King of Glory v7,10. You have been strong and mighty on my behalf many times. How do I know this? With all the destruction, sorry, pain, and even death that is a part of this life's experience, how do I know that You are the King of Glory, strong and mighty? Because You died to redeem me from all of this; and once it's all over there will be a new life, just like the resurrection of my Lord. First, the cross. Then, the life!

Be glorified somehow through me today. I am second.

Journal for May 23…When You Have Jesus

5:41 AM

Psalm 23

Father…You have been more than good to me. When I consider what I would deserve without the representation of Christ, You have been truly good to me. I thank You for my salvation, fixed in Heaven; for my life and ministry; for my family…the loved ones You chose for me; for my health; for every good and perfect gift.

It's a familiar passage, Lord, but always good to meditate on again, Psalm 23. When a person has Jesus, they have a shepherd - and every life, every soul needs a divine shepherd. We have all we need. I lack nothing that's important. There is rest, true divine rest for the soul -- those quiet moments of meditation in chaos and busy-ness. With Jesus there is renewed, or restored, soul/life. Jesus is able to make all things new. With Jesus a person has chosen paths down which You, Father, lead us/me. In our darkest times we have the company of the Lord, Your presence. With Jesus we/I have the balance of discipline and guidance that brings comfort in the chaos…always for my good. Lord, You are an advocate with me against my enemies. When a person has Jesus they have purpose and meaning, like a king anointed for service. And with Jesus, there is a divine love that pursues me all the time…all the days, and every day, of my life. And with Jesus, I have a future home in Heaven. I know the end of the psalm is about worshiping in the temple for all a person's life, but Heaven is the ultimate presence and glory of God! With Jesus there is always a future.

You are actively engaged in my life; loving me, comforting me, guiding me, and moving me in the direction of where You are, Heaven/New Earth. I tend to stray and get distracted, but one day I will be with You and all my friends and family that embrace You as Savior.

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty; the King of Creation! …Jesus, Jesus, Jesus: there's just something about that Name; Master, Savior, Jesus, like the fragrance after the rain.

Be glorified somehow today, Lord, in this godless, self-centered world. I am second.

Journal for May 20th…the Vine

5:28 AM

Psalm 80

Lord, what a perfect passage for today - considering the news yesterday. Our president appears to be against Israel…which doesn't bode so well for our country. The majority of Americans, Lord, and certainly discerning Christians in the country are absolutely for Israel.

You are the God that is over all things and nothing is without Your consent. What the U.S. needs first, Lord, are believers that will start living the faith they proclaim. Be Jesus to their neighbors and friends; share the gospel; pray for Israel.

You brought Israel out of Egypt and planted her like a vine in a barren place. She became the shade and resources for the region v8-11; now people snipe at her and pick her fruit; even want to destroy her v12-13; she is at strife with her neighbors v6 (that's an understatement) and her enemies make fun of her. The U.S. is getting close to the same treatment, too.

But You, Lord of hosts, please return. Take care of Your vine, Israel v14. I pray they will not turn away from You v18, that You would revive them, and they will call on Your name. Please look down with favor and save Israel v19.

I pray the same for the U.S. If Your people, who are called by Your Name, would humble themselves, seek Your face, pray, and turn from their sins, then I know You would hear from heaven, forgive their sin and heal the land. So I pray today that Christians would worship and adore You then lay their lives before You. Restore Your people -- in Israel, in America, and anywhere in the world that people profess Jesus as their Lord.

At the cross, at the cross, where I first saw the light; and the burden of my heart rolled away. It was there by faith, I received my sight, and now I am happy all the day! You are my Vine, of which I am just a branch.

And here, at my ground zero of spiritual warfare, please fill me with Your Spirit today. Forgive my past failures and lost battles. The victory is won in spite of me! Praise the Lord! Thank You, Jesus, for all You've done for me. Hedge in my family and church in the Name of Jesus Christ, the risen Son of God, and by the power of His blood.

Be Lord today. I am second.

Journal for May 19th…Ransom-Payer

5:44 AM

Psalm 49

Lord, I certainly want to praise You today for the ransom You provided for me. I also thank You for making the Truth known to me…for letting me know about Jesus and giving me the capacity to believe in Him.

People can trust in their wealth and riches v6 but it will get them no where with You. Now, You've certainly been good to me. There have been tough times and good times economically, but in the big scheme of things I've been blessed and blessed and blessed. I know that wealth and riches will not pay the ransom You demand v11; only You are able to provide the adequate ransom. Thank You, thank You, for that!

When we die, all of our assets, are left behind v17…we can't take any of it with us. Frankly, Lord, when I think of Heaven, why would anyone want to take what they have now to that beautiful and marvelous place. The best we could possess here on this fallen earth would quickly prove inferior to what You have there. Eye has not seen what You have in store for those that love You. It's a benefit of the ransom….the ransom You paid.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the great and terrible sacrifice You paid for my sins. Mercy there was great and grace was free; pardon there was multiplied to me; there my burdened soul found liberty -- at Calvary!

In the Name of the Lord, Jesus Christ, and the power of His divine blood, I ask for a hedge of protection around my family today. Each of us need Your help in the battle. I pray for my church family -- some are sick, some are facing difficulties and adversity, some are walking through the valley of the shadow of death, others face trials I know not of -- hedge them in, too. Our nation's leaders need divine wisdom, Lord, but seem to reject it; but I pray for them anyway. Please, God, do bless America. You paid the ransom for every single person in this country and You love them all.

To my Ransom-Payer I say thank You. Walk with me; talk with me; nudge me when necessary. I want You to be first. I want to be second.

Journal for May 18th…The Goal

5:37 AM

Philippians 3

Lord, it's clear from Your Word that You are "goal-oriented". Creation starts out with You having a plan and a design for the world. You spoke and it came into being. Your goal was accomplished. Jesus made it clear why He came to earth: "to seek and save the lost" and "to give My life as a ransom". He was clearly goal-oriented and He got it done.

Paul was the same way v10. He said that his goal was to know Christ and the power His resurrection… "to know Christ" in a personal, experiential, intimate way. It was what drove Him each day. We can have mini-goals, like eating right, looking good, feeling better, and making it through another week. But there ought to be a goal that drives our tastes, preferences, and personal desires; that determines what we study, where we work, and how we treat other people. A goal like knowing Christ.

Lord, You've had a hold of me since I was very young v12; my goal is to get a hold of You because You have taken hold of me. You reached down from eternity to this fallen world and got a hold of my life and my soul to save me for all eternity. The least I could do is get a hold of You.

One thing v13: put the past behind me and always look ahead where my future is; look ahead where God's call is on my life v14 and Jesus awaits.

A goal; take hold; one thing. Now there's a 3-point message. Think I'll use it for the Baccalaureate message this coming Sunday evening for the graduates.

For me…today…I pray in the precious and powerful Name of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior, that You would put a strong hedge of protection around my family. Without Your help we are mere men and women fighting and losing the battle in our own strength. Hedge in my church family-may we mature and grow…numerically as well as spiritually. I pray for those men I witnessed to yesterday -- one in particular -- that they may get a hold of Jesus in their life, too.

Thank You for so much…my health, my ministry, my salvation, my family, my friends, my experiences, and Your forgiveness. Yes, for Your mercy.

Be glorified, Lord. I am second.

Journal for May 17th…Songs

5:30 AM

Psalm 47

Praise! Yes, Father, songs of praise offered up to You this morning v6. Praise to the Lord, the almighty, the King of creation! Let my soul praise Him, for He is my Rock and salvation!

Lord, You are truly awe-inspiring v2. Just Your creation is enough to give a person pause.

I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder and there proclaim, my God how great thou art!

There are even godless people that would even kill humans to protect the awesome environment You created -- they are awed by its magnitude, intricacies, and beauty. But I see a wonderful Creator behind the creation. And I know that there's a time coming when You will re-create it all…a New Heaven and New Earth! If this cursed world (because of sin) is beautiful, then the New Earth is beyond my imagination.

You are the King v2 over all the earth, and I must remember that no matter what happens, You are still seated on the throne v8. Nothing gets past You. It's all headed where You want it to go. The promise I believe and hold onto is that You have chosen my inheritance v4…and it's wonderful and eternal. And I know that anything I have, or will ever have, from You is because of Jesus Christ.

Then, along with songs of praise are songs of instruction. Thank You, Lord, for music, music of all kinds. From songs of praise to songs of instruction v7, to songs of encouragement and joy. Thank You for the gift of music. May I honor You with it today.

Be glorified today, Lord. I am trying to be second.

Journal for May 16th…His Goodness

5:42 AM

Psalm 16

Father, You are good to me. Through all the tough times and adversities, in the big scheme of things, You have always been there. You are my portion and cup of blessing v5. "Things" have never satisfied the deep longings and true needs of my life. I will praise You for the counsel and direction You have given me v7; even though I can't say I've always taken Plan A. I want to keep You in my mind always v8. My whole being is affected by Your presence: my body can rest securely, my soul is able to be glad, and my spirit rejoices because of You v9.

The boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places for me v6 --You have always brought into my life the right people v6, like my family and Christian friends, as well as ministry places--and I have had it relatively easy compared to other believers who suffer for their faith.

I simply want to thank You today for the blessings I have. It's so easy to complain about things sometimes, but the truth is that You hold for me "eternal pleasures" that I could never imagine. Thank You for being so good to me…and certainly for no merit on my part. All I have of worth came from You.

Protect me still v1, for I take refuge in You. Protect those around me that I love. Hedge us in and watch over us in the powerful Name of Jesus and His blood. Be good to us still. I can only ask that because of Your grace and loving mercy toward me and those around me.

My sin, O the bliss of this glorious thought; my sin, not in part, but the whole, is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more! Even so, it is well, with my soul.

Because of Your goodness all can be well with my soul. I am second.

Journal for May 13th…Wealth

Psalm 73

Father, I want to thank You, first of all, for Your presence in my life v23,28. The fact is, even in a fallen world and tough economy, there are always the rich and famous. They parade themselves on TV and give their opinion, as if their money and deviate lifestyle make them an expert in living. But my temptation is to envy the ease in which they live v4,12. But the truth is, you give them plenty of troubles v18. It Your presence that matters…now and in eternity.

When I come close to You in worship, into Your sanctuary/temple, then I understand! It all makes sense. They are only rich in dying things. I am always with You v23. You hold me up and guide my ways v24, and one day You will take me to Heaven out of this cursed world that others love so much v24.

Help me, Lord, to desire nothing on earth but You v25. Even if my body is sick and in pain, You be the strength of my heart v26. May I always be able to tell others about You, too v28.

Thank You for my salvation…it is totally from You, no merit of my own. Your grace alone brought the solution and then made it known to my dead spirit. I owe You everything. Thank You for my family - my wife, of all the women in the world, is the one perfect fit for me! Thank You for allowing me to serve in ministry to others and to You. Forgive my failures and sins; cleanse me through Your Spirit and Word.

Put a strong hedge of protection around me, my family, and my church in the Name of Jesus Christ, the risen One. We may not be the wealthiest people by worldly measures, but we have You and we are rich.

Be first today, Lord. I am second.

Journal for May 12th…His Side

Philippians 3

Father, You are glorious -- my mind cannot even conceive Your splendor and wonder. When I first see Heaven I know that it will be profound. I imagine that the only words I will utter will be words of confession and praise. I pray that Your kingdom would come on earth as it is in Heaven.

There are many enemies of the cross…people, Lord, that are not just indifferent, but are enemies v18. Earthly things are all that matter to them but their end is destruction v19. But I don't want to be in league with those types. My citizenship is not here on earth, but in Heaven v20. I don't belong here…but I get too comfortable here sometimes. I know that one day You will come and all of us who believe will be transformed from this wasting body and fallen world to a glorious body like Yours v21. You have the power to make that happen…You rose from the dead; You rule and manage all things from Heaven; and when sin has run its course, You will return, establish Your Kingdom once and for all!

I want to be on Your side, Lord. You were on my side when You died on the cross, now I want to be noticeably on Your side….to the point that others could imitate my example v17.

That's the choice: be friends with the world or be citizens of heaven. There are so many Christians that try to be both. I pray I'm not one of them.

Lord, in the Name of Jesus Christ, and in the power of His blood, I ask for a strong hedge of protection around each member of my family today; and around my church family, many of whom are growing in You, but facing difficulties and threats from our common enemy; and a hedge around this country -- don't give up on the U.S. yet, Lord. May good and godly people bravely step up and lead the congress and make a difference for truth and what is right.

Help me live on Your side today -- I want to be an asset to the Kingdom today, not a liability.

Song:Let others see Jesus in You; let others see Jesus in You. Keep telling the story, be faithful and true; Let others see Jesus in You.

Journal for May 11th…Maturity

5:34 AM

Philippians 3

Father, again today You, and You alone, are worthy of glory and praise. It has always been that way…it will always be that, too. There is none like You; no one else could touch my heart like You do; I could search for all eternity long and find there is none like You! You are too wonderful for my understanding, but I know this: You love me and gave Your Son to ransom me from this fallen world and my own wretched sin! Praise to God for that!

"Darril, a sign of spiritual maturity is the pursuit of My heavenly call in Christ v14,15. You can tell who is growing spiritually by their pursuits, by what's important to them. I will reveal these things to you if you will pursue Me. Anyway, Darril, You may not know all the truth right now -- certainly not as much as you will eventually -- but live up to what You already have attained v15,16." Thank You, Lord, for Your personal affirmation. You’re right, I see so many Christians engaging in religious and theological discussions, but they aren't living up to the truth they already know! I don't ever what to be that way…knowing Scripture but not applying it. I want to be a doer and not a hearer only.

Psalm 11

Lord, our foundations are being destroyed v3. The foundation of dependence upon You; the foundation of family; the foundation of liberty and freedom; the foundation of self-reliance. And when the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do? We are in trouble.

What's that You say? "In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer. I have overcome the world!" That's right, on the cross You started the process of making all things new. And for me, it was when I asked You for forgive my sins and come into life for ever and ever. "Yes, v4 I am in my holy Temple; I will not be moved; and in the end I will accomplish my will. Be of good cheer, my child."

Thank You, Lord, for encouragement. Be glorified today -- where You want and how You want!

Journal for May 10th…Knowing Him

5:38 AM

Philippians 3

Father, today I thank You for another opportunity to praise You, grow in You, and know You. My goal, v10 is to know You. Help me abide in You and You in me (John15:5) that I may know You better. You must start, please, by forgiving my sins and cleansing me with Your Holy Spirit and Your Word. My thoughts are constantly drawn to worldly things -- it's a distraction game we play: I try to think on Godly things and the world tries to distract me. But deep down I want to know You and the power of Your resurrection living through me.

I have never suffered much for being a believer. This fallen world has suffering enough of its own. But there are believers around the world today, Egypt and Syria come to mind, that are fellowshipping with Your suffering v10, because they are engaged in the spiritual battle. I want to pray for believers everywhere today that put their lives and family's on the line for their faith.

You got a hold of me one day, Lord. One day, for reasons beyond my comprehension, You got a hold of my life v12. There are/were better prospects than me, but You got a hold of me. Song: Jesus got a hold of life and He won't let me go; Jesus got into my heart, He got into my soul…. Now, I want to get of hold of what Your purpose is for me.

Help me to forget what is behind and always reach for what is ahead v13. For I know that with You, the best is always ahead!Thank You, Lord, for letting me know You.

Journal for May 9th…Relationship

Philippians 3

Father, I rejoice in the blessings that mine. Most of all knowing Christ. I want to rejoice in the Lord all day v1. As a matter of fact, I want to boast about Jesus to others v3. I don't mind telling people what You've done for me.

Mostly I am still taken back by the privilege of know Jesus, my God. Knowing You -- having an intimate, personal relationship with You -- surpasses anything of value in the world v8. Nothing I could experience, collect, or own in the world matches the supreme worth of just knowing Jesus Christ. O yes, it's a battle sometimes (all the time) … my humanity is drawn to the world and the things in it. I would rather have Christ and be found in You v9.

Sunday was a great day, Lord, and I thank You for it. Worship, baptisms, infant dedications, being with my family, etc. But this week will require more of You each day. I want to draw closer to You; please draw close to me.

Thank You for the righteousness I have through faith in Christ -- not of my own doing, but completely and wholely from You…the righteousness of God based on faith v9. And I certainly do believe, but help strengthen my faith.

He walks with me and He talks with me; and He tells me I am His own. And the joy we share as we tarry there … none other has ever known.

Journal for May 6th…Faithful Love

5:38 AM

Psalm 6

Father, the amazing thing is that You even accept my prayers at all v9. The only explanation is Your faithful love v4. You have helped me many times -- none which I deserved; and I believe there is always someone else that can take my place, even do it better, yet You are faithful to me and allow me to serve You. I want to praise You today for Your faithful love. You set the bar for us to follow. You are loving, forgiving, and compassionate toward us…even when we mess up, fail, sin and falter. You show me that I should do the same for other people, especially of the household of faith, who mess up, fail sin and falter.

Psalm 36

Your faithful love reaches to the heavens v5 and Your righteousness stands tall and permanent like the mountains v6; Your judgements are like the deepest sea -- I don't understand why and how You do many of the things You do. Like, apart from Your love for me, there's no reason to save me. I have nothing to offer that You didn't give me. But somewhere in Your "judgement" You saved me, then called me into Your service.

You are the Light of the world…at least the Light of me! Only in Your light am I able to see light in the darkness of this present world v9.

Spread Your faithful love over me, over my family, over my church, over this nation. Give is another day, another chance, to make some difference for the Kingdom of God. Your very nature is faithfulness and I praise You for it.

Father, I adore You; lay my life before You; how I love You. Jesus, I adore You; lay my life before You; how I love You. Worthy, worthy, worthy is the Lord God almighty, who was and is, and is to come!

Journal for May 5th…Presence

5:44 AM

Psalm 65

You, Lord, are definitely the God of my salvation v5. You answer me in Your righteousness even though I don't always understand why and how You answer. Nevertheless, Your works are awe-inspiring…from creation itself to my salvation to Your daily presence. Praise is rightfully Yours, God v1. I pray that you'll help me fulfill my vows to You from now on.

Only You can atone for my rebellions v3, and You do this through the blood of Your Son, Jesus Christ.

I look forward to Heaven, Lord. I know I will be more than satisfied with Your house and holiness of Your temple v4, the New Jerusalem. But even now You are One who hears prayer v2. Millions bow every day to gods that cannot hear, heal or help. But You hear me. Thank You for hearing my whining as well as other prayers. Your compassion is deep.

In a fallen world of pain, starvation, mean people, evil and cruelty the believer knows that Your ways overflow with plenty v11. You provide what we need; and as for me, I have been greatly blessed with stuff. Mostly I am blessed with the family I've been given; and I thank You for putting me into ministry 1Tim; I thank You for a church family that cares, and in which I see You move; I thank You for my health (although I have a few aches and pains this morning…at least I have a body that can feel, walk, and serve).

Jesus, I just want to thank You for being so personal…for walking and talking with me throughout the day. I need someone like You to bounce ideas off of…someone who overlooks the little dumb things and glosses over my frailties…and then gives me Your own thoughts. Fill me with Your Spirit, today, Lord Jesus. Help me to be second today.

Journal for May 4th…Dialogue

5:39 AM

(Note: Sometimes in my prayers and journals I write as if the Lord and I are having a dialogue. His impressions are written as if He were speaking to me. His Words are in quote marks)

Psalm 34

I will praise the Lord at all times v1…at least that's what I want to do, Father. The world is not a friendly place for anyone, least of all believers, so we get distracted by adversity. You promised many adversities would come v19, but that You would stay close. I need Your Spirit to help me "turn away from evil and do what is good" v14, and to keep my tongue from evil, too v13.

Thank You, Lord, that Your angel encamps around me, for I respect and honor You as Lord and King v7. You are wonderful to me and I wish that others would/could know You intimately and personally like I do. If they would only try and get a taste of what it's like to know the One that loves them so much v8. Lord, today there are people that are sad and brokenhearted; their spirit is crushed from the circumstances they endure; or the loss of a loved one, or the betrayal of a friend… if they only knew that You stood by to embrace them and love them. You are especially near those that are hurting v18.

"Darril, if you seek Me, I will answer You…in My time, of course, and in my way; but I will answer You. I answered You when You called on me for salvation, and so many other times. My love for You is not diminished since then." Thank You, Father for hearing me. Forgive the sins and disappointments that obstruct our relationship. "Done." Cleanse me today with Your Word and fill me with Your Spirit. "Stay in My Word, it's my Spirit's power in you." Thank You for all You have done, and will do, in my life. It is Yours to take or use as You see fit. Thank You for Jesus and what was accomplished through Him on the cross. I will never forget it. "I love you, too."

In the Name of Jesus and the power of His blood, please put a strong hedge of protection around me, my family, my church, Your people and all the leaders in our nation that claim You as Savior. I look forward to eternity apart from this cursed world; but one thing I have is You in the midst of this fallen world…for that I am grateful. "I will be You until the end of the age." Yes, I remember You promised that. I believe it, too. May Jesus Christ be praised!

First Journal Entry for May 03…His Faithful Love

5:48 AM

Father, today I ask that Your faithful love would rest on me 22, for I put my hope in You. Anyone, anything else would disappoint -- especially me -- but You are faithful in Your love and compassion for me. I will depend on Your faithful love to deliver me and watch over me 18,19.

I begin my day with praise of Your overwhelming power and genius. Everything came into being because You spoke and it was 9. So I know a word from You is all it takes and it's done…whatever it is. Throughout the day I will sing and hum praises to You 3 while Your work continues in my life 4 to whatever end You decide. I need Your counsel 11 and truly want to know Your plans for me. I already know Your marvelous plans about salvation (praise You for that alone) and about Heaven!, but day to day, in what are just small things to You, I need Your counsel.

Without a doubt, Lord, You are in charge. I do not know why some things take the course they do, but I know You have the end result.

Protect me with Your armor today, Lord. The enemy so easily infiltrates my life and my thoughts. Thank You for my salvation, but give me the mind of Christ; protect my heart from other loves and preferences - be first and make me second; fill me with Your Spirit so that I will be honest with You and myself, and help live in integrity; provide opportunities for me to share or care today; increase my faith, even that comes from You; and make the Word, Your Word, strong in me today…teach me and fire me up with Your Word. Protect my family in the Name of Jesus and the power of His blood; the same for my friends, my church, and our nation. And Lord, let there be a spiritual awakening in our hearts and lives.

Journal for May 2…Glad

5:38 AM

Psalm 32

Even now, Lord, as I read Your Word and converse with You, it is raining outside and I hear the thunder rolling in the distance. We need the rain, but more than that, we need You. Father, I come to You to begin this day in Jesus' Name. I have no standing before You except what You have given me by grace. I am in Your presence today by invitation only. Had it not been for Jesus and the heavy price He paid for me, I would be lost and separated forever. My heart is glad because of Your mercy.

Happy is the one (me) whose transgression is forgiven, who sin is covered v1. I confess my sins to You -- how foolish it would be to try and hide them. But in my spirit I am open before You and acknowledge my transgressions v2. The amazing thing is that You do not charge me any longer with sin…You charged Jesus! I confess my sins and You take away the guilt!v5 It's not fair, it's not logical, but it's what You did through Jesus Christ.

This is not about my sin, it's about Your grace; Your Mercy; and Your concern and love for me.

What I pray for today, in the Name of Jesus, is for Your instruction v8. Show me the way to go. Keep Your eye on me and give me counsel. Don't keep Your will from me. You promised to do this. My hearing is not so good sometimes and I am not on Your frequency, but I have Your Spirit within me, so help my infirmity (inability to pray rightly) Rom.8:28, and give me counsel in my spirit.

I will be glad in the Lord today…I will rejoice v11. Even in difficult and trying times You are still worthy of praise and glory! My mistakes and misjudgments, while giving my enemies fodder to accuse me, have never diminished Your glory one bit. I will shout for joy v11. I am glad, so very glad, that Your mercy found me.

Be glorified today, Lord…in my family; in Your church; in my life; in this nation; in the lives of our elected officials. Let the revival start right here, in me.