And when they ran out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to Him, "They have no wine." Jesus said to her, "Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come." (John 2:3-4 NKJV)
His brothers therefore said to Him ... "Show Yourself to the world." For even His brothers did not believe in Him. Then Jesus said to them, "My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready."
(John 7:3-6 NKJV)
Commit your way to the LORD,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.
(Psalms 37:5 NKJV)
The oft quoted ancient proverb says, "If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans." Like little children, we believe we can plan and control our lives. But even when God tells us to act, He does not tell us when and how He plans to step in. (Noah waited inside the ark a full week for rain, and he apparently received instructions to build it 120 years earlier.)
If a house does not sell, a job does not come through, or the assurance we received from God during prayer is not immediately manifest in life, it is time to believe in Him. We may believe enough to obey, but will we believe enough to wait quietly for Him when we grow weary?
Most High King and Sovereign Lord, You are Creator. You control the world and our lives according to Your perfect plan. Please help us submit to You the free will You’ve entrusted to us. Increase our faith!
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Immersed in the Spirit
John also gave testimony by stating ... "He who sent me to baptize in water said to me, 'The One on whom you see the Spirit coming down, and remaining, He it is who baptizes [immerses] in the Holy Spirit.' This I have seen, and I have become a witness that He is the Son of God." (John 1:32-34 WNT)
Elijah said to Elisha, "Ask! What may I do for you, before I am taken away from you?" Elisha said, "Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me." So he said, "You have asked a hard thing."
(2 Kings 2:9-10 NKJV)
"It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper [Counselor] will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." (John 16:7-8 NKJV)
When the Holy Spirit comes to those who are Christ’s, it is not to rest with us. It is so we may be immersed in the Spirit, that He might live within us in fullness.
When He comes, we want the "Woo-hoo!" experience. His ministry as Helper, Counselor, Comforter is a hard thing, for rejoicing comes via conviction of sin, righteousness, and judgment. If His ministry makes us uncomfortable, our nature is to resist Him.
If we wish to be filled with—immersed in—the Spirit, let us quickly yield to all He brings. Let us obey Him immediately, joyfully, thoroughly.
Father in Heaven, You give Your Spirit without measure. You are good and generous and merciful. Please draw our hearts to overcome ourselves and yield to Your Spirit. Please own and fill us.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Elijah said to Elisha, "Ask! What may I do for you, before I am taken away from you?" Elisha said, "Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me." So he said, "You have asked a hard thing."
(2 Kings 2:9-10 NKJV)
"It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper [Counselor] will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." (John 16:7-8 NKJV)
When the Holy Spirit comes to those who are Christ’s, it is not to rest with us. It is so we may be immersed in the Spirit, that He might live within us in fullness.
When He comes, we want the "Woo-hoo!" experience. His ministry as Helper, Counselor, Comforter is a hard thing, for rejoicing comes via conviction of sin, righteousness, and judgment. If His ministry makes us uncomfortable, our nature is to resist Him.
If we wish to be filled with—immersed in—the Spirit, let us quickly yield to all He brings. Let us obey Him immediately, joyfully, thoroughly.
Father in Heaven, You give Your Spirit without measure. You are good and generous and merciful. Please draw our hearts to overcome ourselves and yield to Your Spirit. Please own and fill us.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Friday, August 29, 2008
Light and Darkness
And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not lay hold of it. (John 1:5)
"And you, child ... will go before the face of the Lord ...
To give knowledge of salvation to His people
By the remission of their sins,
Through the tender mercy of our God ...
To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace."
(Luke 1:76-79 NKJV)
Jesus spoke ... "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." (John 8:12 NKJV)
Thoughts on light and darkness: darkness can not extinguish light; if a small light seems insufficient for the darkness, one need only draw near to the light; the part of the earth that lies in darkness is the part turned away from the sun; a completely blind person is not afraid of the darkness because light is irrelevant; light dispels fear of darkness; light always trumps darkness, even when darkness persists.
Jesus is meaningless to those who do not recognize darkness for what it is. Jesus dispels darkness and death and fear for those who are turned toward Him and draw close to Him. There is no darkness in life Jesus cannot overcome.
Light of the World You came down into darkness that we might see. Your glorious light is pure and trustworthy. Please draw our hearts close to You and guide our feet in the way of peace.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
"And you, child ... will go before the face of the Lord ...
To give knowledge of salvation to His people
By the remission of their sins,
Through the tender mercy of our God ...
To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace."
(Luke 1:76-79 NKJV)
Jesus spoke ... "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." (John 8:12 NKJV)
Thoughts on light and darkness: darkness can not extinguish light; if a small light seems insufficient for the darkness, one need only draw near to the light; the part of the earth that lies in darkness is the part turned away from the sun; a completely blind person is not afraid of the darkness because light is irrelevant; light dispels fear of darkness; light always trumps darkness, even when darkness persists.
Jesus is meaningless to those who do not recognize darkness for what it is. Jesus dispels darkness and death and fear for those who are turned toward Him and draw close to Him. There is no darkness in life Jesus cannot overcome.
Light of the World You came down into darkness that we might see. Your glorious light is pure and trustworthy. Please draw our hearts close to You and guide our feet in the way of peace.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Word of God
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. ... And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
(John 1:1-4,14 NKJV)
[Thus] says the LORD.
"For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.
For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven,
And do not return there,
But water the earth,
And make it bring forth and bud,
That it may give seed to the sower
And bread to the eater,
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
It shall not return to Me void,
But it shall accomplish what I please,
And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
For you shall go out with joy,
And be led out with peace ..."
(Isaiah 55:8-12 NKJV)
This is my testimony: I grew up hearing Jesus is God, Jesus died for my sins, the Bible is the Word of God. I understood only that Jesus is God. Then one day in autumn 1985, on a quest for truth, I met the Word of God in the Person of Jesus. It was love at first sight.
Life and Light and Love entered my life that day. He has never left me, and I have never been the same. The Word has been a Sword to pierce me (even as He was pierced) and Water to wash me. He is God’s Seed producing the Spirit’s fruit in my life. He is Grace and Truth, Joy and Peace. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. There is no other way, no other truth, no other life.
I am still in love. Building His Body exists in the hope that each person touched by my words will grow in love for the Word of God made flesh. He lives, and He is found in the pages of a book stamped in letters of gold, "Holy Bible."
Lord Jesus, I have beheld only part of Your glory, and You are beautiful. Your love for us is amazing. Thank You for making Yourself known. Thank You for giving Yourself for us so fully. Thank You for giving life to us who were once dead and didn’t know it.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
(John 1:1-4,14 NKJV)
[Thus] says the LORD.
"For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.
For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven,
And do not return there,
But water the earth,
And make it bring forth and bud,
That it may give seed to the sower
And bread to the eater,
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
It shall not return to Me void,
But it shall accomplish what I please,
And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
For you shall go out with joy,
And be led out with peace ..."
(Isaiah 55:8-12 NKJV)
This is my testimony: I grew up hearing Jesus is God, Jesus died for my sins, the Bible is the Word of God. I understood only that Jesus is God. Then one day in autumn 1985, on a quest for truth, I met the Word of God in the Person of Jesus. It was love at first sight.
Life and Light and Love entered my life that day. He has never left me, and I have never been the same. The Word has been a Sword to pierce me (even as He was pierced) and Water to wash me. He is God’s Seed producing the Spirit’s fruit in my life. He is Grace and Truth, Joy and Peace. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. There is no other way, no other truth, no other life.
I am still in love. Building His Body exists in the hope that each person touched by my words will grow in love for the Word of God made flesh. He lives, and He is found in the pages of a book stamped in letters of gold, "Holy Bible."
Lord Jesus, I have beheld only part of Your glory, and You are beautiful. Your love for us is amazing. Thank You for making Yourself known. Thank You for giving Yourself for us so fully. Thank You for giving life to us who were once dead and didn’t know it.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Offer Sacrifice
"Hear, O My people ...
I am God, your God! ...
Will I eat the flesh of bulls,
Or drink the blood of goats?
Offer to God thanksgiving,
And pay your vows to the Most High.
Call upon Me in the day of trouble;
I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me."
(Psalms 50:7,13-15 NKJV)
Offer the sacrifices of righteousness ... I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle ... The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart ... I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving ... Let my prayer be set before You as incense, The lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.
(Psalms 4:5; 27:6; 51:17; 116:17;141:2 NKJV)
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks;
for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV)
The offering of daily sacrifice—flesh and blood of animals, burning incense, grain and wine offerings—in the Old Testament temple before God’s shekinah (visible) glory is no longer possible. The superior offerings of the New Covenant are made with the temple of our bodies where the Holy Spirit dwells.
We offer righteousness by doing as we should rather than as we want. We choose to display our inner joy rather than become irritated. We bring brokenness for sin rather than explanations. We give thanks for what is rather than complain for what is not. We sacrifice something good for something better and take time to pray.
Always. Without ceasing. In everything. To glorify our God.
Oh God, You are my God! My vows are: I will ever praise You; I will seek You in the morning; I will learn to walk in Your ways and follow You all of my days; I will offer sacrifice by Your grace alone. My highest privilege, greatest pleasure, and deepest passion is to give You glory.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
I am God, your God! ...
Will I eat the flesh of bulls,
Or drink the blood of goats?
Offer to God thanksgiving,
And pay your vows to the Most High.
Call upon Me in the day of trouble;
I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me."
(Psalms 50:7,13-15 NKJV)
Offer the sacrifices of righteousness ... I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle ... The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart ... I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving ... Let my prayer be set before You as incense, The lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.
(Psalms 4:5; 27:6; 51:17; 116:17;141:2 NKJV)
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks;
for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV)
The offering of daily sacrifice—flesh and blood of animals, burning incense, grain and wine offerings—in the Old Testament temple before God’s shekinah (visible) glory is no longer possible. The superior offerings of the New Covenant are made with the temple of our bodies where the Holy Spirit dwells.
We offer righteousness by doing as we should rather than as we want. We choose to display our inner joy rather than become irritated. We bring brokenness for sin rather than explanations. We give thanks for what is rather than complain for what is not. We sacrifice something good for something better and take time to pray.
Always. Without ceasing. In everything. To glorify our God.
Oh God, You are my God! My vows are: I will ever praise You; I will seek You in the morning; I will learn to walk in Your ways and follow You all of my days; I will offer sacrifice by Your grace alone. My highest privilege, greatest pleasure, and deepest passion is to give You glory.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Whose Glory?
This is the way of those who are foolish ...
Like sheep they are laid in the grave;
Death shall feed on them ...
their beauty shall be consumed in the grave,
far from their dwelling. ...
when he dies he shall carry nothing away;
His glory shall not descend after him.
Though while he lives he blesses himself
(For men will praise you when you do well for yourself) ...
Psalms 49:13-18 (NKJV)
"You are the light of the world.... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:14,16 NKJV)
Who does not want to do well? To be esteemed, to have a good name, to be shown respect? To perhaps be even admired? It is human nature to desire admiration, even if one is shy and shuns the spotlight.
The child who is a citizen of Heaven is a light like the moon in its glory—a mere reflection of the true Light. Whatever our Creator has put in us that is found worthy is given that it may be used to bring glory to Him alone. Our glory will not endure, but all glory brought to God now will one day be waiting to greet us.
You alone are worthy, oh Lord, to receive glory and honor and power. Thank You for the talents, time and treasure You give us. Show us how they are best used. Please keep us humble, that the resulting glory is Yours alone.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Like sheep they are laid in the grave;
Death shall feed on them ...
their beauty shall be consumed in the grave,
far from their dwelling. ...
when he dies he shall carry nothing away;
His glory shall not descend after him.
Though while he lives he blesses himself
(For men will praise you when you do well for yourself) ...
Psalms 49:13-18 (NKJV)
"You are the light of the world.... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:14,16 NKJV)
Who does not want to do well? To be esteemed, to have a good name, to be shown respect? To perhaps be even admired? It is human nature to desire admiration, even if one is shy and shuns the spotlight.
The child who is a citizen of Heaven is a light like the moon in its glory—a mere reflection of the true Light. Whatever our Creator has put in us that is found worthy is given that it may be used to bring glory to Him alone. Our glory will not endure, but all glory brought to God now will one day be waiting to greet us.
You alone are worthy, oh Lord, to receive glory and honor and power. Thank You for the talents, time and treasure You give us. Show us how they are best used. Please keep us humble, that the resulting glory is Yours alone.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Monday, August 25, 2008
View of Zion
Beautiful in elevation,
The joy of the whole earth,
Is Mount Zion on the sides of the north,
The city of the great King.
God is in her palaces;
He is known as her refuge. ...
Let Mount Zion rejoice ...
For this is God,
Our God forever and ever;
He will be our guide
Even to death.
(Psalms 48:2-3,11,14 NKJV)
"I spread My wing over you ... I swore an oath to you and entered into a covenant with you, and you became Mine," says the Lord GOD.
(Ezekiel 16:8 NKJV)
Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (Revelation 21:2 NKJV)
The site of Golgatha where Jesus was crucified is placed north of Jerusalem. Looking toward the south, one would see the north sides of (from left to right) the Mount of Olives (where Jesus will return), Mount Moriah (the temple mount), and Mount Zion (symbol of the heavenly Jerusalem).
It is likely that this is what Jesus looked upon as He died—"Mount Zion on the sides of the north"—representing His bride, the city of New Jerusalem He will inhabit, for whom He was giving His life’s blood. In His eyes, the view of Zion is beautiful.
Beloved Bridegroom, thank You for the great price You paid to set us apart to Yourself as Your precious and beautiful bride. Help us remember how much You love us, that we might deeply love You.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
The joy of the whole earth,
Is Mount Zion on the sides of the north,
The city of the great King.
God is in her palaces;
He is known as her refuge. ...
Let Mount Zion rejoice ...
For this is God,
Our God forever and ever;
He will be our guide
Even to death.
(Psalms 48:2-3,11,14 NKJV)
"I spread My wing over you ... I swore an oath to you and entered into a covenant with you, and you became Mine," says the Lord GOD.
(Ezekiel 16:8 NKJV)
Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (Revelation 21:2 NKJV)
The site of Golgatha where Jesus was crucified is placed north of Jerusalem. Looking toward the south, one would see the north sides of (from left to right) the Mount of Olives (where Jesus will return), Mount Moriah (the temple mount), and Mount Zion (symbol of the heavenly Jerusalem).
It is likely that this is what Jesus looked upon as He died—"Mount Zion on the sides of the north"—representing His bride, the city of New Jerusalem He will inhabit, for whom He was giving His life’s blood. In His eyes, the view of Zion is beautiful.
Beloved Bridegroom, thank You for the great price You paid to set us apart to Yourself as Your precious and beautiful bride. Help us remember how much You love us, that we might deeply love You.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Worship His Majesty
For [YHWH] Most High is awesome [terrifying];
He is a great King over all the earth. ...
Sing praises to God, sing praises!
Sing praises to our King, sing praises!
For God is the King of all the earth;
Sing praises with understanding.
(Psalms 47:2,6-7 NKJV)
I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him stood the seraphim. And one called to another and said:
"Holy, holy, holy is [YHWH] of hosts;
the whole earth is full of his glory!"
And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke.
And I said: "Woe is me!
For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips,
and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips;
for my eyes have seen the King, [YHWH] of hosts!"
(Isaiah 6:1-5 ESV)
Yours, O LORD, is the greatness,
The power and the glory,
The victory and the majesty ...
Yours is the kingdom, O LORD,
And You are exalted as head over all.
(1 Chronicles 29:11 NKJV)
In an era which considers it acceptable to appear before the president in flip flops, do we comprehend the incredible honor to stand in the presence of the Almighty King, have Him receive us with favor, and "worship His majesty"?
"Our God is an Awesome God" refers to the Hebrew word yare, which literally means "terrifying," and is often translated "terrible." "Worship" is how we translate shachah, meaning "to prostrate oneself before a king." The exhortation of Psalm 46 to praise (zamar) calls us to "laud with songs and instruments."
Let us praise our King with understanding! Let us truly "Worship His Majesty."
Holy, Holy, Holy are You, Lord God Almighty! Only You are Holy—"there is none beside Thee." Thank You for giving us access to Your presence to praise Your good name. Thank You for Your favor. Please make us worthy to worship You.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
He is a great King over all the earth. ...
Sing praises to God, sing praises!
Sing praises to our King, sing praises!
For God is the King of all the earth;
Sing praises with understanding.
(Psalms 47:2,6-7 NKJV)
I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him stood the seraphim. And one called to another and said:
"Holy, holy, holy is [YHWH] of hosts;
the whole earth is full of his glory!"
And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke.
And I said: "Woe is me!
For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips,
and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips;
for my eyes have seen the King, [YHWH] of hosts!"
(Isaiah 6:1-5 ESV)
Yours, O LORD, is the greatness,
The power and the glory,
The victory and the majesty ...
Yours is the kingdom, O LORD,
And You are exalted as head over all.
(1 Chronicles 29:11 NKJV)
In an era which considers it acceptable to appear before the president in flip flops, do we comprehend the incredible honor to stand in the presence of the Almighty King, have Him receive us with favor, and "worship His majesty"?
"Our God is an Awesome God" refers to the Hebrew word yare, which literally means "terrifying," and is often translated "terrible." "Worship" is how we translate shachah, meaning "to prostrate oneself before a king." The exhortation of Psalm 46 to praise (zamar) calls us to "laud with songs and instruments."
Let us praise our King with understanding! Let us truly "Worship His Majesty."
Holy, Holy, Holy are You, Lord God Almighty! Only You are Holy—"there is none beside Thee." Thank You for giving us access to Your presence to praise Your good name. Thank You for Your favor. Please make us worthy to worship You.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Saturday, August 23, 2008
No Fear
God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried
into the midst of the sea ...
Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!
(Psalms 46:1-2,10 NKJV)
"There will be signs ... and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men's hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth ... Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near. ... By your patience possess your souls." (Luke 21:25-28; 21:19 NKJV)
There is a worldwide earthquake in Earth’s future when the planet's foundations are shaken, which accompanies the final days of Christ’s return. We are to then be still and look up to our God, who is about to be exalted, and have no fear.
There are days in our lives when we face a crisis of such enormity that it feels as if the ground beneath our feet dissolves, when all else seems to fall away. We then have a safe refuge, strength, and very present help available, and need have no fear if we know where to find it. The preparation for such days is to take time to be still before God each day.
Lord Jesus, we long for Your return, however fearsome it may be. We need You in our present troubles. It is so hard to be still and reach the place where we know Your presence. Please help us seek and find You each day.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried
into the midst of the sea ...
Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!
(Psalms 46:1-2,10 NKJV)
"There will be signs ... and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men's hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth ... Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near. ... By your patience possess your souls." (Luke 21:25-28; 21:19 NKJV)
There is a worldwide earthquake in Earth’s future when the planet's foundations are shaken, which accompanies the final days of Christ’s return. We are to then be still and look up to our God, who is about to be exalted, and have no fear.
There are days in our lives when we face a crisis of such enormity that it feels as if the ground beneath our feet dissolves, when all else seems to fall away. We then have a safe refuge, strength, and very present help available, and need have no fear if we know where to find it. The preparation for such days is to take time to be still before God each day.
Lord Jesus, we long for Your return, however fearsome it may be. We need You in our present troubles. It is so hard to be still and reach the place where we know Your presence. Please help us seek and find You each day.
Comments are invited! Post here, or e-mail via profile page.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Friday, August 22, 2008
Queen of Christ
To the Chief Musician ... A Song of Love ...
I recite my composition concerning the King ...
At Your right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir.
Listen, O daughter,
Consider and incline your ear;
Forget your own people also, and your father's house;
So the King will greatly desire your beauty;
Because He is your Lord, worship Him. ...
The royal daughter is all glorious within the palace;
Her clothing is woven with gold.
(Psalms 45:1,9-11,13 NKJV)
[Christ] loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. (Ephesians 5:25-27 NKJV)
The church is the bride of Jesus Christ. There is a day when believers will finally be united as one, and stand at the right hand of Jesus the King as His beautiful queen, united to His glory.
Little girls merely dream of royal weddings. The King’s bride spares nothing to prepare for her Bridegroom. How do we make ready? By not just reading His Word in the Bible, but by allowing it to thoroughly infuse us. By uniting our hearts to all the others who are His. By yielding to His Holy Spirit’s work to purge from us everything which hinders us from being pure for Him.
By having eyes for only our King.
Lord Jesus, we are utterly unworthy to be chosen for the honor You give us. Without the make-over You provide we would be a thoroughly unfit bride, much less a queen. Please enable us give ourselves to You as You have given Yourself for us.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
I recite my composition concerning the King ...
At Your right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir.
Listen, O daughter,
Consider and incline your ear;
Forget your own people also, and your father's house;
So the King will greatly desire your beauty;
Because He is your Lord, worship Him. ...
The royal daughter is all glorious within the palace;
Her clothing is woven with gold.
(Psalms 45:1,9-11,13 NKJV)
[Christ] loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. (Ephesians 5:25-27 NKJV)
The church is the bride of Jesus Christ. There is a day when believers will finally be united as one, and stand at the right hand of Jesus the King as His beautiful queen, united to His glory.
Little girls merely dream of royal weddings. The King’s bride spares nothing to prepare for her Bridegroom. How do we make ready? By not just reading His Word in the Bible, but by allowing it to thoroughly infuse us. By uniting our hearts to all the others who are His. By yielding to His Holy Spirit’s work to purge from us everything which hinders us from being pure for Him.
By having eyes for only our King.
Lord Jesus, we are utterly unworthy to be chosen for the honor You give us. Without the make-over You provide we would be a thoroughly unfit bride, much less a queen. Please enable us give ourselves to You as You have given Yourself for us.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Thursday, August 21, 2008
In God We Boast
We have heard with our ears,
O God, Our fathers have told us,
The deeds You did in their days ...
For they did not gain possession of the land
by their own sword,
Nor did their own arm save them;
But it was Your right hand, Your arm,
and the light of Your countenance,
Because You favored them.
You are my King, O God ...
In God we boast
all day long,
And praise Your name forever.
(Psalms 44:1,3-4,8 NKJV)
"He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him." (John 7:18 NKJV)
Should our money say, "In God We Trust"? Does trust in God indeed characterize our people as it did for the forefathers who established our nation? Or have we come to trust in ourselves? Is it our weapons, our economic clout, our officials who we expect to save us, in everything from terrorists to hurricane?
The Lord’s fingerprints cover everything. His hand—not human might and minds—accomplishes all. God is to be glorified in all we do. Zeal for God not only asserts "In God We Trust," but also says, all day long, "In God We Boast."
Oh Lord our God, You are our King. You are the One who delivers from all that attacks us. You are the One from whom all our accomplishments originate. For You alone is all glory and praise.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
O God, Our fathers have told us,
The deeds You did in their days ...
For they did not gain possession of the land
by their own sword,
Nor did their own arm save them;
But it was Your right hand, Your arm,
and the light of Your countenance,
Because You favored them.
You are my King, O God ...
In God we boast
all day long,
And praise Your name forever.
(Psalms 44:1,3-4,8 NKJV)
"He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him." (John 7:18 NKJV)
Should our money say, "In God We Trust"? Does trust in God indeed characterize our people as it did for the forefathers who established our nation? Or have we come to trust in ourselves? Is it our weapons, our economic clout, our officials who we expect to save us, in everything from terrorists to hurricane?
The Lord’s fingerprints cover everything. His hand—not human might and minds—accomplishes all. God is to be glorified in all we do. Zeal for God not only asserts "In God We Trust," but also says, all day long, "In God We Boast."
Oh Lord our God, You are our King. You are the One who delivers from all that attacks us. You are the One from whom all our accomplishments originate. For You alone is all glory and praise.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Exceeding Joy
Oh, send out Your light and Your truth!
Let them lead me;
Let them bring me to Your holy hill
And to Your tabernacle.
Then I will go to the altar of God,
To God my exceeding joy;
And on the harp I will praise You,
O God, my God.
(Psalms 43:3-4 NKJV)
Then Jesus cried out and said, "He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness." (John 12:44-46 NKJV)
"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27 NKJV)
Far too often, inner turmoil drives us in relentless and fruitless search for peace—peace through another’s counsel, in withdrawal from life, or in our favorite comfort food / addiction (obsession) / idol ("what would – do?"). How often do we stumble around looking for an answer in needless darkness simply because we didn’t first look for the Light?
The Light always brings us to the Father. If we seek Jesus, the Light of the World, we will find Him and we will see the Father. And in the presence of God—beyond the altar of painful sacrifice—is exceeding joy.
Father, in You is light, life, and love. You are the fullness of goodness, peace, and wisdom. When life on earth is difficult and anxious, please remind us to seek the peace of Your presence where darkness flees.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Let them lead me;
Let them bring me to Your holy hill
And to Your tabernacle.
Then I will go to the altar of God,
To God my exceeding joy;
And on the harp I will praise You,
O God, my God.
(Psalms 43:3-4 NKJV)
Then Jesus cried out and said, "He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness." (John 12:44-46 NKJV)
"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27 NKJV)
Far too often, inner turmoil drives us in relentless and fruitless search for peace—peace through another’s counsel, in withdrawal from life, or in our favorite comfort food / addiction (obsession) / idol ("what would – do?"). How often do we stumble around looking for an answer in needless darkness simply because we didn’t first look for the Light?
The Light always brings us to the Father. If we seek Jesus, the Light of the World, we will find Him and we will see the Father. And in the presence of God—beyond the altar of painful sacrifice—is exceeding joy.
Father, in You is light, life, and love. You are the fullness of goodness, peace, and wisdom. When life on earth is difficult and anxious, please remind us to seek the peace of Your presence where darkness flees.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
The Face of God
As the deer pants after the channels of water, so my soul pants after You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; when shall I come and see the face of God? (Psalms 42:1-2 LITV)
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. (Philippians 1:21-24 NKJV)
He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. ... He who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?
(1 John 2:10; 4:20 NKJV)
If one loves and thirsts after the living God with all heart, soul, mind and strength, how could one not earnestly yearn to see the face of God?
A small child’s delight is to look into a parent’s face. Mature love also delights in working alongside the Father without seeing his face. We are to both be as little children, and stretch to reach the stature of Christ, who literally fed upon work of His Father (John 4:34).
The Father’s first work is to love. Love of God compels love of brother and sister, in whose face the image of God may be seen, while we wait patiently for the day of our reward—the reward of seeing our Creator’s face.
Lord Jesus, surely You longed for our Father’s face while You walked the earth. Sustain us in our longing. Nourish us with the Father’s work of love.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. (Philippians 1:21-24 NKJV)
He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. ... He who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?
(1 John 2:10; 4:20 NKJV)
If one loves and thirsts after the living God with all heart, soul, mind and strength, how could one not earnestly yearn to see the face of God?
A small child’s delight is to look into a parent’s face. Mature love also delights in working alongside the Father without seeing his face. We are to both be as little children, and stretch to reach the stature of Christ, who literally fed upon work of His Father (John 4:34).
The Father’s first work is to love. Love of God compels love of brother and sister, in whose face the image of God may be seen, while we wait patiently for the day of our reward—the reward of seeing our Creator’s face.
Lord Jesus, surely You longed for our Father’s face while You walked the earth. Sustain us in our longing. Nourish us with the Father’s work of love.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Monday, August 18, 2008
Consider the Poor
A Psalm of David.
Blessed is he who considers the poor;
The LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.
The LORD will preserve him and keep him alive,
And he will be blessed on the earth.
(Psalms 41:1-2 NKJV)
Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come. (1 Timothy 6:17-19 NKJV)
[The Lord] is rich to all who call upon Him. (Romans 10:12 NKJV)
King David surely did not anticipate the day he would become a needy fugitive fleeing from his own son. All around us are those hit hard by recession, who only recently basked in prosperity. We do well to always consider the poor, lest circumstances one day also bring us to unexpected poverty.
Those who call upon the Lord are blessed with spiritual riches beyond description. If we consider the poor and share our earthly wealth, how much more should we, who hold the keys to the kingdom’s treasure house, consider the spiritual paupers who surround us?
God Almighty, El Shaddai, thank You to so generously supply for our needs when we look to You. You hold our future in Your hands. Help us to never worry for tomorrow. Enable us to be generous today with all Your wealth entrusted to our care.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Blessed is he who considers the poor;
The LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.
The LORD will preserve him and keep him alive,
And he will be blessed on the earth.
(Psalms 41:1-2 NKJV)
Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come. (1 Timothy 6:17-19 NKJV)
[The Lord] is rich to all who call upon Him. (Romans 10:12 NKJV)
King David surely did not anticipate the day he would become a needy fugitive fleeing from his own son. All around us are those hit hard by recession, who only recently basked in prosperity. We do well to always consider the poor, lest circumstances one day also bring us to unexpected poverty.
Those who call upon the Lord are blessed with spiritual riches beyond description. If we consider the poor and share our earthly wealth, how much more should we, who hold the keys to the kingdom’s treasure house, consider the spiritual paupers who surround us?
God Almighty, El Shaddai, thank You to so generously supply for our needs when we look to You. You hold our future in Your hands. Help us to never worry for tomorrow. Enable us to be generous today with all Your wealth entrusted to our care.
Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Living Sacrifice
Sacrifice and offering You did not desire;
My ears You have opened. ...
Then I said, "Behold, I come ...
I delight to do Your will, O my God,
And Your law is within my heart."
(Psalms 40:6-8 NKJV)
"Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean... I will give you a new heart ... I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them." (Ezekiel 36:25-27 NKJV)
At the Old Testament temple, an offering often endured—while a sacrifice always died. The New Testament temple is the Christian’s body, shared by both God's Spirit and human Self, where Self is offered as a living sacrifice that will endure forever. The only thing that dies for a living sacrifice is our will—our right to dominion over Self.
Dying doesn’t always hurt. If Self rises up and must be slaughtered, it will involve pain. But as faith grows, Self more easily delights in God’s will as a privilege rather than duty, and readily lies down to die peacefully—perhaps even painlessly.
Good Father, Your will is perfect and a delight—whatever its cost—for all things we are and have came from You and belong to You. Fill us with Your Spirit and with Your life and with joy in Your will.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
My ears You have opened. ...
Then I said, "Behold, I come ...
I delight to do Your will, O my God,
And Your law is within my heart."
(Psalms 40:6-8 NKJV)
"Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean... I will give you a new heart ... I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them." (Ezekiel 36:25-27 NKJV)
At the Old Testament temple, an offering often endured—while a sacrifice always died. The New Testament temple is the Christian’s body, shared by both God's Spirit and human Self, where Self is offered as a living sacrifice that will endure forever. The only thing that dies for a living sacrifice is our will—our right to dominion over Self.
Dying doesn’t always hurt. If Self rises up and must be slaughtered, it will involve pain. But as faith grows, Self more easily delights in God’s will as a privilege rather than duty, and readily lies down to die peacefully—perhaps even painlessly.
Good Father, Your will is perfect and a delight—whatever its cost—for all things we are and have came from You and belong to You. Fill us with Your Spirit and with Your life and with joy in Your will.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Last Day
"LORD, make me to know my end,
And what is the measure of my days,
That I may know how frail I am.
Indeed, You have made my days as handbreadths,
And my age is as nothing before You;
Certainly every man at his best state is but vapor.
(Psalms 39:4-5 NKJV)
Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will ..." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." (James 4:13-15 NIV)
Have you ever wondered what you would want your last day to look like? Would you simply eat, drink and be merry? What last actions would stamp your life—what last words would be remembered? What final gift would you prepare to present as you stand before God?
This is the secret of life, to live each day as if it counted for eternity. To brush aside all that is petty, to enjoy the simple, to speak each word with love, to keep every relationship pure. If each day is lived with excellence, excellence will mark the last day.
Ancient of Days, thank You for the brief precious days You lend us. Teach us to number each one as a treasure. Give us the ability to return each one to You.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
And what is the measure of my days,
That I may know how frail I am.
Indeed, You have made my days as handbreadths,
And my age is as nothing before You;
Certainly every man at his best state is but vapor.
(Psalms 39:4-5 NKJV)
Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will ..." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." (James 4:13-15 NIV)
Have you ever wondered what you would want your last day to look like? Would you simply eat, drink and be merry? What last actions would stamp your life—what last words would be remembered? What final gift would you prepare to present as you stand before God?
This is the secret of life, to live each day as if it counted for eternity. To brush aside all that is petty, to enjoy the simple, to speak each word with love, to keep every relationship pure. If each day is lived with excellence, excellence will mark the last day.
Ancient of Days, thank You for the brief precious days You lend us. Teach us to number each one as a treasure. Give us the ability to return each one to You.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Friday, August 15, 2008
Choose Life
There is no soundness in my flesh
Because of Your anger,
Nor any health in my bones
Because of my sin.
For my iniquities have gone over my head;
Like a heavy burden they are too heavy for me.
My wounds are foul and festering
Because of my foolishness.
(Psalms 38:3-5 NKJV)
"I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the LORD your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days." (Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NKJV)
Sin brings death. The process of dying always accompanies sin, whether to a relationship, lack of health in our bodies, anguish in our souls. Life comes from God, and sin compromises unity with God and life.
Even those who are given eternal life through the blood of Jesus Christ fall prey to the consequences of sinful thoughts, feelings, words, and actions. We choose life when we choose to turn away from sin.
Oh Lord-Our-Righteousness, in You alone is our righteousness. In You alone is life and health of soul and body. Empower us to resist sin when temptation knocks. Draw us to cling to You and life.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Because of Your anger,
Nor any health in my bones
Because of my sin.
For my iniquities have gone over my head;
Like a heavy burden they are too heavy for me.
My wounds are foul and festering
Because of my foolishness.
(Psalms 38:3-5 NKJV)
"I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the LORD your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days." (Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NKJV)
Sin brings death. The process of dying always accompanies sin, whether to a relationship, lack of health in our bodies, anguish in our souls. Life comes from God, and sin compromises unity with God and life.
Even those who are given eternal life through the blood of Jesus Christ fall prey to the consequences of sinful thoughts, feelings, words, and actions. We choose life when we choose to turn away from sin.
Oh Lord-Our-Righteousness, in You alone is our righteousness. In You alone is life and health of soul and body. Empower us to resist sin when temptation knocks. Draw us to cling to You and life.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Wait on the Lord
Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. ... Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him. (Psalms 37:3-4,7 NKJV)
And so I am sure that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it on until it is finished on the Day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6 GNB)
How difficult it is to wait on the Lord. Like little children, our hearts ask often, "Are we there yet?" We want waiting times reduced for everything from fast food to search engines that measure task completion time by thousandths of a second—why not also for God’s work in us?
More than we wait on the Lord, He waits for us to make ready for Him. We ask for the desires of our hearts and want them now. He waits for us to first do good, to feed upon His faithfulness and grow in trust, and to make Him our first delight. He tells us to "wait on the Lord" because He knows our long response time requires it.
Good Father, thank You for Your patience with us. You are better than life—better than any pleasure this life offers. How could we not delight ourselves in You? Help us to yield to Your Spirit and Your work in us so our wait may reach its end.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
And so I am sure that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it on until it is finished on the Day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6 GNB)
How difficult it is to wait on the Lord. Like little children, our hearts ask often, "Are we there yet?" We want waiting times reduced for everything from fast food to search engines that measure task completion time by thousandths of a second—why not also for God’s work in us?
More than we wait on the Lord, He waits for us to make ready for Him. We ask for the desires of our hearts and want them now. He waits for us to first do good, to feed upon His faithfulness and grow in trust, and to make Him our first delight. He tells us to "wait on the Lord" because He knows our long response time requires it.
Good Father, thank You for Your patience with us. You are better than life—better than any pleasure this life offers. How could we not delight ourselves in You? Help us to yield to Your Spirit and Your work in us so our wait may reach its end.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Abundance
How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light. (Psalms 36:7-9 ESV)
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30 ESV)
What do you need today? Food and water? Work? Rest? Protection? The light of His guidance in a situation?
It is all available from the One who created you. He grants much of it even to those who are not His children, who hate and slander Him. He loves you and longs to give it to you.
He provides what He knows we need when we don’t know we need it, whether or not we ask Him to do so. How much more might he provide if we come to Him and ask?
O God, Your love and kindness and mercy are indeed precious. Life with You is one of all manner of abundance. Show us what we need today, enable us to receive it, and inspire us to ask for it. Let us not fail to thank You for it.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30 ESV)
What do you need today? Food and water? Work? Rest? Protection? The light of His guidance in a situation?
It is all available from the One who created you. He grants much of it even to those who are not His children, who hate and slander Him. He loves you and longs to give it to you.
He provides what He knows we need when we don’t know we need it, whether or not we ask Him to do so. How much more might he provide if we come to Him and ask?
O God, Your love and kindness and mercy are indeed precious. Life with You is one of all manner of abundance. Show us what we need today, enable us to receive it, and inspire us to ask for it. Let us not fail to thank You for it.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Love Your Enemies
Lord, who is like You, delivering the poor from him who is too strong for him, yes, the poor and the needy from him who plunders him? Fierce witnesses rise up … they reward me evil for good, to the sorrow of my soul. But as for me, when they were sick … my prayer would return to my own heart. I paced about as though he were my friend or brother; I bowed down heavily, as one who mourns for his mother. (Psalm 35:10-14 NKJV)
"Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. … If you love those who love you … if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil." (Luke 6:27-28,32-33,35 NKJV)
"Love your enemies" is more than a nice mantra for Christians. It is more than academic. It is a test of whether we are truly "sons of the Most High," who is kind to the evil as He patiently waits for them to repent.
David’s love and prayer for his enemy was as if for a friend or brother. His enemies caused him great suffering. Jesus enemies did far worse and He gave His life for them. Surely we can show love to those who torture us with mere annoyance.
Oh Father, Your Son’s goodness and love and prayers for us who were once Your enemies has transformed us into Your servants, friends, children. Please make us like Him. Please make us like You.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Monday, August 11, 2008
Receiving a Kingdom
A Psalm of David … Those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing. … Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. The face of the Lord is against those who do evil.
(Psalm 34:1,10,14-16 NKJV)
We are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken …
(Hebrews 12:28 NKJV)
David was anointed king and began receiving a kingdom before he received his throne and crown. Saul’s curse for rebellion was to lose his kingdom while he yet held the throne, and to watch authority, power, and
We have already been anointed as royalty and are receiving a kingdom now. We need not wait for heaven to be in the place where we do not lack any good thing. Our reward for righteousness is that the eyes of the Lord are upon us and His ears are open to us as we turn to Him for all we need.
Blessed are You O Lord YHWH our God, Most High King of the Universe! How blessed are we to be royal sons and daughters of privilege, with keys to the kingdom’s treasures. Thank You for hearing our prayers.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Fear of the Lord
Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His mercy, to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. (Psalm 33:18-19 NKJV)
Behold, the Lord God shall come with a strong hand … He will feed His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those who are with young.
(Isaiah 40:10-11 NKJV)
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (Proverbs 9:10 NKJV)
The love He pours out upon us can give us reason to forget our fear of the Lord. Yet the same God named “Good Shepherd” is also named “Mighty Terrifying One.” The same Father who covers us with His wings in protection chastens His children.
Perfect love casts out fear. Our love is not yet perfected, and it is good to cling to our fear of the Lord even in the midst of our love and praise, looking forward to the day love is perfected.
Lord YHWH, Your might and righteousness are good and inspire our awe. Your love and tenderness comfort as much as Your gentle discipline. Teach us love You as perfectly as heart, soul, mind and strength are able.
"He's not safe, but he's good." — C.S. Lewis
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Forgiven
To my readers: This post has proven itself a safe haven for a soul to meet with God. The wrestling occurring in the comments is not typical of this site, but has been made welcome here on behalf of the Lord and His servant. ~ALB, 12-29-09
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Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit. When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long. (Psalm 32:1-3 NKJV)
When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven you." And some of the scribes were sitting there and reasoning in their hearts, "Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? Who can forgive sins but God alone?" (Mark 2:5-7 NKJV)
Sickness and death entered the world with sin. Health, life, and forgiveness are all blessings of God. It is good to keep short accounts with Him, clearing ourselves with Him quickly. This includes granting forgiveness to those who trespass against us. Healing belongs to the one who is blessed to be forgiven. It also belongs to the one who forgives.
Jesus Christ, Author of life, thank You for the blessing of being forgiven. Thank You for giving us peace with Your Father. Thank You for the health of our souls which You make available each day.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
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Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit. When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long. (Psalm 32:1-3 NKJV)
When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven you." And some of the scribes were sitting there and reasoning in their hearts, "Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? Who can forgive sins but God alone?" (Mark 2:5-7 NKJV)
Sickness and death entered the world with sin. Health, life, and forgiveness are all blessings of God. It is good to keep short accounts with Him, clearing ourselves with Him quickly. This includes granting forgiveness to those who trespass against us. Healing belongs to the one who is blessed to be forgiven. It also belongs to the one who forgives.
Jesus Christ, Author of life, thank You for the blessing of being forgiven. Thank You for giving us peace with Your Father. Thank You for the health of our souls which You make available each day.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Friday, August 8, 2008
Into the Hand of God
Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O Lord God of truth. … Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men! (Psalm 31:5,19 NKJV)
Likewise the chief priests also, mocking among themselves with the scribes, said, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. Let the Christ, the King of Israel, descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” (Mark 15:31-32 NKJV)
And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’” Having said this, He breathed His last. (Luke 23:46 NKJV)
If we are offended, do we attempt to vindicate ourselves, or trust in God in the very presence of those who injure us? The only safe course of action is publicly placing ourselves into the hands of God. When we trust Him with all our hearts and acknowledge Him in all our ways, our path is assured.
A fully human and humiliated Jesus set the example of entrusting Himself into the hands of God without any attempt to justify Himself. The goodness laid up for Jesus was the greatest vindication ever displayed—His resurrection. The God of truth shall do no less for all His sons and daughters.
Lord YHWH, our Abba Father, we are weak and forgetful, and our faith can fall so short. Please remind us to rely on the strength of Your truth, and allow You to vindicate us as You wish, when You wish. Please give us the courage to acknowledge you in the presence of others.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Night of Suffering
A Song at the dedication of the house of David. … Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. … You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, to the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
(Psalm 30:1,5,11-12 NKJV)
We are children of God … and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. … And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:17-18,28 NKJV)
David’s suffering as an innocent fugitive lasted not a night but many years. He lost nearly all he had, including his wife, and (according to Jewish history) his murdered parents. Yet he considered his weeping as for but a night compared to the joy felt when he received from his God a crown and a home in
Jesus understands our suffering. We need not go through it alone. The light of the Son can penetrate our own dark night right now. And one day soon, those who love Him shall also receive both a crown and a home in the heavenly
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your great love, which compelled You to so greatly suffer on our behalf. Help us look to You and receive strength from You to endure the sufferings of this present time.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
The Beauty of Holiness
Give unto the Lord the glory due to His name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. (Psalm 29:2 NKJV)
Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. (Ephesians 5:25-27 NKJV)
As He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15-16 NKJV)
Holiness is often considered either burdensome or prideful. True holiness is a thing of great beauty. It is to take what is common and set it apart as sacred and special—now distinguished and separate from what it once was.
As our holy God is more glorious than the moon and more beautiful than the stars, He wishes His bride to likewise possess the pure beauty of holiness and to be glorious. Once we belong to Jesus Christ, we cannot help but be different, be beautiful, be holy.
Lord Jesus our glorious God, though we do not yet see You, You stir our hearts with Your beauty and holiness. Give us the power to be like You, and to reflect You to everyone around us.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Voice of God's Spirit
To You I will cry, O Lord [YHWH] my Rock: Do not be silent to me, lest, if You are silent to me, I become like those who go down to the pit. (Psalm 28:1 NKJV)
Jesus answered and said ... “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things.”
(John 14:23,26 NKJV)
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”
(John 10:27 NKJV)
How can one know when one hears the voice of God’s Spirit, or of another spirit, or of Self? The Holy Spirit of the Lord YHWH comes in the name of Jesus, God’s Word made flesh. He speaks only truth, according to what the Word has already said. He speaks to glorify the Father and exalt the Son and not to indulge human will. He leads us to a high place where Self would have never ventured, so that we will become quite unlike those who follow another spirit and find themselves in the pit.
Good Father, thank You for Your Son’s assurance that You give Your Spirit to Your children who ask. Please cleanse our hearts and ears, that we might hear Your voice and follow where You lead.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Monday, August 4, 2008
No Fear of the Dark
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? … Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord! (Psalm 27:1,14 NKJV)
[Jesus] said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
(John 8:10-12 NKJV)
If we think we have no fear of the dark, let it come over us in a place of danger. Even the light of a candle comforts such fear—how much more so if sunlight enters?
There are many ways for darkness and danger to threaten us. If we have already chosen to walk with Jesus, the Light of the world, the darkness becomes light as soon as we enter it with Him. In any dark situation, nothing can be addressed before Son-light is brought in. The first order of business is always to seek Jesus. He brings the light of life to even those places where we fear something is about to die.
Lord Jesus, darkness and death and evil must flee from Your light and life and love. Let us always go toward the Light. Let us never fear. Teach us to wait patiently for You when all seems lost.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Sunday, August 3, 2008
A Complete Work
Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my mind and my heart. … Lord, I have loved the habitation of Your house, and the place where Your glory dwells. (Psalm 26:2,8 NKJV)
He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6 NKJV)
A marriage is not accomplished on the wedding day—the real work then starts. The relationship with Jesus Christ is not completed in the day one comes to Him, but only beginning.
The Old Testament temple no longer exists. The believer’s body is now the earthly habitation of God’s glory. We cannot make ourselves a fit place for the Holy Spirit to live. He first moves in, and then begins His work of sanctification, cleaning and restoring every place yielded to Him.
Sanctification’s work nears completion on the day when however we are offended, we bleed only love.
Lord Jesus, thank You for the blood that makes our soul righteous in our Father’s sight. Thank You for choosing to live now within a work in progress. Please help us cooperate with Your design for us.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Saturday, August 2, 2008
I Love You
My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. (1 Corinthians 16:24 NKJV)
“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.” (John 15:11-14 NKJV)
I cannot know how many people these messages reach. But as Paul did, I can honestly tell each one of you that I love you. If you belong to Christ I am your sister, I love you, and I look forward to spending eternity with you. If you are among those peeking in at His kingdom, I love you as the beautiful person God created, whom I hope to soon see.
And as long as God gives me the ability, I intend to lay down my life (my right to myself) and to love you as I pray for you and share God with you—His love, His person, His Word, His joy.
Heavenly Father, thank You for adopting me into such a big family. Thank You for the of Jesus that unites us. Please give us and increase in us Your deep love for one another.
Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. © 2008, Anne Lang Bundy
Friday, August 1, 2008
The Enemy Death
If Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! … The last enemy that will be destroyed is death. … The sting of death is sin … but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:26,56-57 NKJV)
“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26 NKJV)
If Christ is not risen … if in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are all men the most pitiable. But now Christ is risen from the dead.
(1 Corinthians 15:14,19-20 NKJV)
Perhaps the only reliable statistic is that 10 out of 10 people die. Everyone faces the enemy Death, because everyone sins, and the wages—the payment—for sin is Death.
The God whose name is “I AM” is the only power to trump Death. Those who believe in Jesus live in Him and evade death's sting of sin. The choice to live each day, each moment in Christ is a choice to have true life now, and keep it for eternity. For us, the enemy Death is already defeated.
Lord YHWH, the great I AM, in You is all life. You are greater than all our enemies. The life You give fulfills our deepest needs. Please help us to choose Your life in all we do.
"Whoever be our people here, God's people or the devil's, death will gather our souls to them." — C.H. Spurgeon
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